The Central Drakensberg is home to some formidable peaks including Monk's Cowl, Giant Castle Peak and Champagne Castle. The range rises to over 3000 metres in height and offers inspiring views and spectacularly scenic hikes. Known to the Zulus as the 'Barrier of Spears' and to the first European settlers as the 'Dragon's Mountains', the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg is one of eight South African UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as it holds unique significance as a natural resource and for the heritage of the ancient San rock paintings. For thousands of years the Central Drakensberg was home to the San people and they, in turn, left their record on the walls of numerous sandstone caves.
Commonly known as ‘The Kingdom in the Sky’ due to its dramatically high altitude, Lesotho is rather unique in that it is entirely surrounded by South Africa. This tiny and spectacularly mountainous kingdom makes for a wonderful adventure getaway with excellent pony trekking, hiking, rock climbing, fishing, abseiling, birdwatching, mountain biking and even snow skiing on offer. The country’s highlands boast magnificent mountain scenery, clean mountain air, and a myriad of impressive sparkling waterfalls and clean streams. Don’t miss the opportunity to learn about the fascinating local cultures, particularly in the isolated Basotho villages, where a traditional way of life is still celebrated. Itinerary favourites in Lesotho also include the highest waterfall in southern Africa, the Maletsunyane Falls, and the modern yet traditional capital city of Maseru.
Located in the heart of the remote and mysterious Great Karoo, Graaff-Reinet is surrounded by the rolling plains and rising mountains of Camdeboo National Park. This is a wonderful place to escape from reality and revel in the solitude, silence and clear, star-studded nights that this secluded town provides. Graaff-Reinet, as the fourth oldest town in the country, has a very rich history and features ancient fossils, wonderful examples of Cape Dutch architecture, and over 220 local heritage sites. Visitors can look forward to an array of lovely activities including: soaking up the breathtaking views of the 'Valley of Desolation' in the Camdeboo National Park, enjoying a night under the African stars at a local guest farm, and sample the area’s renowned Karoo lamb.
Situated on the shores of Algoa Bay in the Eastern Cape province of South Africa, Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) is a laid-back coastal city known for its long beaches, rich wildlife and outdoor lifestyle. Often called the “Friendly City”, it combines an attractive seafront with easy access to some of the country’s most celebrated natural attractions. Visitors can enjoy swimming, surfing and dolphin watching along the city’s beaches, or explore the scenic coastal route that links parks, reserves and marine habitats. Gqeberha also serves as a gateway to the renowned Addo Elephant National Park, where elephants, lions and other wildlife can be seen. With its mild climate, ocean views and blend of urban amenities and nature, Gqeberha offers a well-rounded introduction to the Eastern Cape.
Stretching along the spectacular Garden Route coastline between the Western and Eastern Cape provinces of South Africa, Tsitsikamma National Park is a coastal and forest wilderness that forms part of the wider Garden Route National Park. Renowned for its dramatic coastline, lush indigenous forests and rugged river gorges, it is a haven for outdoor adventure and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can walk across the iconic suspension bridges at Storms River Mouth, hike the world-famous Otter Trail, kayak through the dramatic Storms River Gorge or explore scenic forest trails beneath towering yellowwood trees. With opportunities for snorkelling, scuba diving, birdwatching and coastal exploration, the park offers a remarkable blend of marine, forest and mountain scenery, making it a memorable highlight of the Garden Route.
Located in the Klein Karoo region of the Western Cape, Oudtshoorn is a charming rural town renowned as the ostrich capital of South Africa. Surrounded by rugged mountains, open plains and striking semi-arid landscapes, it offers a fascinating blend of nature, adventure and heritage. Visitors can explore working ostrich farms, learn about the region's feather farming history, or venture into the spectacular Cango Caves, a vast underground network of limestone chambers. Nearby attractions include the scenic Swartberg Pass, wildlife encounters and opportunities to sample local Karoo cuisine. With its warm climate, dramatic scenery and distinctive character, Oudtshoorn offers an authentic taste of the Klein Karoo.
Easily accessible, picture-perfect and filled with interesting local attractions, Barrydale is a stunning Garden Route destination between the Overberg and Klein Karoo regions of the Western Cape. This picturesque village with a wonderful climate is home to abundant fruit orchards, excellent vineyards and numerous gardens. Stroll among orange, apricot and fig trees, or paint the bright multicoloured scenes of the landscapes in Autumn. Sample the town’s famous brandies and wines, or browse the fascinating shops and art galleries in the town’s centre. Travellers seeking a restorative holiday will delight in the labyrinth, peace pagoda and heritage garden, and the chance to soak away stress at the Warmwaterberg hot springs nearby. Other highlights include a fantastic Quad Biking facility with breathtaking views and the option to pick peaches along the way.
