This vast country is undoubtedly one of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth. Fondly known by locals as the “Rainbow Nation,” South Africa has 11 official languages and its multicultural inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of African, Asian and European cultures. Spend your days discovering the gourmet restaurants, impressive art and nightlife scenes and fine beaches of Cape Town; enjoying a typical local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township; browsing the bustling Indian markets in Durban; or sampling some of the world’s finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotted around the picturesque Cape Winelands. Due to its rich and turbulent history, there are plenty of historical attractions to explore including the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, South Africa’s attraction lies in its remarkably untamed wilderness with its astonishing range of wildlife roaming freely across massive unfenced game reserves, such as the world-famous Kruger National Park. With all of this variety on offer, it is little wonder that South Africa has fast become Africa’s most popular tourist destination.
Resting at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean, sandwiched between the slopes of the iconic Table Mountain and the glistening sapphire waters of Table Bay, the exceptionally scenic city of Cape Town is in a class of its own. Some cities boast rich culture, vibrant nightlife, a cosmopolitan atmosphere and extraordinary architecture, while others boast breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary natural wonders. Cape Town is lucky enough to be blessed with all of these attractions and so much more. With its bustling harbour, world-class beaches, top-notch vineyards, and its mountainous surroundings brimming with diverse flora and fauna, Cape Town consistently captivates the hearts of all who visit.
De Kelders is a small town in Walker Bay, about two hours drive from Cape Town. Protected coves and inlets provide the ideal conditions for Southern Right Whales to mate and give birth, and, every year between July and November, these giant creatures can be spotted in the waters. A collection of caves offer much to explore; at Klipgat, some of the oldest human remains and stone artefacts have been found; while Drup Kelders presents a freshwater pool cave perfect for swimming and decorated by striking stalagmites and stalactites. The tranquil cove at Standford’s Bay is another perfect place to swim, surrounded by 150-year-old fig trees. Visitors can also enjoy hiking, angling, quad biking, and horse riding in the area, and the exquisite natural beauty of the Walker Bay Nature Reserve. Make sure to visit one of the local restaurants, too, which serve up wonderful fresh seafood.
Stretching over more than 7,500 square miles, the Kruger National Park is one of the world’s largest game reserves and a truly remarkable destination. Because of its exceptional size, visitors are able to experience fantastic diversity – from changing scenery and ecosystems to an impressive array of animals, plant life and birdlife. The park is home to over 130 mammal species and over 500 bird species. Visitors can look forward to learning about the area’s prehistoric past, enjoying a host of accommodation options, and viewing abundant wildlife including the famed Big Five. The sheer density of wildlife makes Kruger National Park an unforgettable and potentially life-changing experience.
