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.
Stretching for over 200 kilometres along one of South Africa’s most pristine, wild and beautiful sections of shoreline, the Wild Coast is renowned for its hidden coves, secluded beaches, and rolling emerald hills. Those who love peace, quiet and the great outdoors would be hard-pressed to find a better holiday destination than this scenic wilderness, while it also provides plenty of activities to keep the active and adventurous amused, including fishing, diving, and swimming. Visitors can also look forward to exploring the traditional Xhosa villages that dot the hills, lazing in a hammock, and hiking along the breathtakingly beautiful coastline, which boasts secret swimming holes, rocky headlands, sheer cliffs, footprint-free beaches, and lazy lagoons.
This tiny Eastern Cape beach town, located just ten minutes from the iconic Hole in the Wall, is one of the Wild Coast’s most enticing destinations, blessed with fantastic scenery, friendly locals, and a balmy climate. White beaches stretching into the distance are backed by rolling hills blanketed in lush sub-tropical vegetation, while the town itself is dotted with a selection of laid-back eateries, restaurants, and cafes. The village has a surf school that provides lessons in the local waters as well as day trips to nearby breaks. Other activities include fishing and swimming in the temperate waters, while rugged off-road trails provide thrilling routes for quad bikes and 4x4s.
The Eastern Cape is endowed with some of the best beaches in South Africa – long stretches of fine white sand backed by hills blanketed with lush subtropical vegetation and, for the most part, blissfully uncrowded. The Indian Ocean waters that fringe this coast are mild throughout the year and support a myriad of marine life, including a wide array of fish species that make the region an angler’s mecca. South Africa’s most legendary surfing destination is located along the Eastern Cape coast: Jeffrey’s Bay, renowned for its long rides and world-class barrels.
