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.
Encircled by the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, St Lucia is South Africa’s first UNESCO World Heritage Site. St Lucia lies on the magnificent St Lucia Estuary which is one of the largest in Africa stretching over 85 kilometres. It features abundant wildlife, pristine natural beauty, and offers a wide range of wonderful activities. This haven of tranquillity offers excellent mountain biking, hiking, bird watching and deep-sea fishing. Visitors can also look forward to thrilling night drive safaris, hippo and crocodile cruises, and many comfortable accommodation options.
Scattered across the undulating plains of KwaZulu Natal, a wonderful array of game reserves can be explored. These magnificent parks are renowned for their dramatic hilly countryside, diversity of flora and fauna, high standards of conservation and their invaluable contribution to protecting endangered species, including the white rhino, from extinction. It is possible to see the famous ‘Big Five’ animals, as well as a variety of other animals. The area is a bird watcher’s paradise, with the Mkhuze Game Reserve alone home to 420 different species of birds, and species like the Pel’s Fishing-Owl and Pink-throated Twinspot making special appearances. Visitors can enjoy a host of activities including day and night game drives, scuba diving, deep-sea fishing, hiking and guided walks. Many of the parks include stunning beaches, which feature turquoise, warm Indian Ocean waters and soft white sands.
Located between the cities of Johannesburg and Durban in northeastern South Africa, the Nambiti Private Game Reserve is the ultimate escape, offering the Big 5 in a malaria-free region in the heart of KwaZulu Natal. The world-famous elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhino and over 40 other animal species roam these reclaimed farms in the heart of the Battlefields area. The reserve boasts a biodiverse landscape featuring riverine scrub, vast savannah, grasslands and thornveld. Visitors can look forward to excellent wildlife viewing, bird watching, swimming, game drives and stargazing in the beautiful African night sky.
The Northern Cape is South Africa’s largest and least densely populated province, characterised by wide open spaces and mostly dry terrain, though the Orange River meandering along the northern border creates a compelling contrast to the arid desert landscape. It is home to several prominent national attractions, including the majestic Augrabies Falls, the Kalahari Gemsbok National Park and, in spring, the blooming Namaqualand wildflowers. Visitors can also look forward to exploring the red dunes of the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, visiting the impressive Big Hole in Kimberley, and going on adventures along the Orange River.
As previously described
