One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or sample some of the world's finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.
Bordering Botswana in South Africa’s North West Province, Madikwe Game Reserve is the fifth-largest reserve in the country and is home to a great number of animal species. It contains a wild dog reserve, and is inhabited by the world-renowned Big Five, as well as Brown Hyenas, Cheetahs, and Aardwolf. Visitors will also be surrounded by over 300 bird species, including vulture, ostrich, and the large kori bustard. The landscape is characterised by vast grasslands, woodlands, and the rugged Tshwene Tshwene hills - creating enthralling scenes that often attract photographers and artists. Visitors can look forward to sunset drinks overlooking the Madikwe Dam. Madikwe Game Reserve is one of the only reserves in South Africa that is malaria free.
Set along the famously beautiful Garden Route, Dehoop Nature Reserve is known for its spectacular natural scenery, excellent hiking trails and abundant wildlife. This magnificent reserve stretches over 34000 hectares and is decorated by awe-inspiring, brightly-coloured indigenous fynbos. The area is home to a variety of mammals including bontebok, eland, Cape mountain zebra, and baboon, and also encompasses a marine section that extends for five kilometres into the ocean, allowing for wonderful snorkelling opportunities among pristine turquoise pools and shallows. The birdlife in this area is also prolific. Enjoy a fantastic selection of activities including the popular 5-day Whale Trail (known as one of the best hikes in South Africa), exploring the environment-sensitive Elim Wine Route, and taking adrenaline-pumping eco-quad bike tours.
