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.
The vast Timbavati Private Game Reserve borders the Kruger National Park to the north. It is unfenced so the wildlife can travel freely between the Kruger and the Timbavati. Words cannot describe the thrill of tracking a leopard on the hunt or observing a breeding herd of elephants at a waterhole.
The Timbavati is one of the best areas for game-viewing in South Africa. You are likely to see large elephant herds and you'll have a good chance of spotting many of the so-called 'Big 5' - elephant, buffalo, lion, leopard and rhino as well a variety of smaller mammals.
The Timbavati is known for its White Lion which are occasionally seen. This unique sub-species colouring is due to a rare recessive gene. Leopard sightings are also very good. Cheetah, wild dog and buffalo are also frequently seen moving through the reserve. It said to have the densest giraffe population in the world.
The Timbavati comprises a number of private game lodges which cooperate in conserving their valuable heritage. Drives are in the early morning and late afternoon when game is most likely to be active. You enjoy game drives in open-vehicle game drives with an experienced ranger and a local Shangaan tracker who work together to give you a deeper understanding of the wildlife and the natural cycles of the bush. Drives are in the early morning and late afternoon when game is most likely to be active. After enjoying the bush sunset, the evening holds a sense of anticipation as the rare and elusive nocturnal species begin to hunt.
Surrounded by subtropical fruit orchards, Hazyview is a small farming town and a gateway to the southern part of the Kruger National Park and the Panorama Escarpment. The town and its spectacularly scenic surroundings, serve as a popular adventure capital with a remarkable array of exhilarating outdoor activities on offer to suit all ages, tastes and fitness levels. These include, among others: mountain biking, quad biking, ziplining, tubing, abseiling, and river rafting. Whether you are eager to hike the Panorama Route with its breathtaking views and impressive waterfalls, visit the Shangana Cultural Village, or horse ride along the banks of the magnificent Sabie River, Hazyview has something for just about everyone.
Situated on the east coast of Africa, this tropical paradise is blessed with 2500 kilometres of spectacular coastline. With its idyllic beaches fringed with palm trees and lapped by crystal-clear waters brimming with a dazzling array of marine life, this enchanting African nation is an ideal adventure holiday destination, with an abundance of activities on offer such as snorkelling, sunset cruises, horse-riding, dolphin tours and world-renowned scuba diving. Mozambique’s two major centres, Maputo and Inhambane, offer an exotic kaleidoscope of art, music and delicious local food as well as a lively nightlife scene. Spend your days immersing yourself in the fascinating local culture, marvelling at the impressive colonial architecture and interacting with the fabulously friendly local inhabitants. Those seeking a more remote getaway can head for the isolated beaches of Benguerra Island; the historic Portuguese and Muslim architecture of Mozambique Island; or the outstanding wildlife of Gorongosa National Park. However, you choose to spend your time in this exceptionally scenic destination you are likely to leave with a heavy heart and a burning desire to return time and time again.
It is hard to imagine somewhere more romantic or 'Robinson Crusoe' than the Bazaruto islands 40km off the coast of Mozambique. The Bazaruto Archipelago forms part of a protected marine park and consists of five idyllic islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Santa Carolina and Bangue. Empty white sandy beaches, lush vegetation and an azure blue sea for swimming amongst the rich coral life epitomize the islands. This 'land of smiles', is synonymous with long sandy beaches, warm tropical water, a relaxed atmosphere and delicious Portuguese cuisine.
The protected reefs surrounding the islands support dolphin, dugong, game fish and giant lobster. The shallow, crystal-clear waters offer spectacular safe snorkeling protected by the dazzling soft coral reefs. You float above starfish, anemones, seahorses and a bewildering range of jewel-like fish, which extend out to the many dive sites where you also encounter green turtles, manta ray, sailfish and a variety of docile sharks. Experience the exhilaration of big game fishing, fighting marlin (October to March) as well as barracuda, kingfish, tuna and sailfish amongst others.
On the islands themselves a mosaic of forest, savanna and saltwater lakes sustains a diversity of flora and fauna on these idyllic island retreats. Bird-watchers will not be disappointed with over 125 species recorded including the rare Crab plover, Green coucal, Narina trogan and Paradise flycatchers. Above all, there are no people! If you want a cosmopolitan bustling resort experience, these islands are not for you! There are no shops, no real roads and very few vehicles.
