Discover South Africa
South Africa has described itself as a ‘world in one country’ and, when you travel around, you can see why. The scenery is simply stunning, from coastal forests and wooded hills to open bushland; from rolling fertile plains to towering mountain peaks and dramatic gorges.
South Africa’s fine beaches are washed by the wild waters of the Atlantic on one side and the warm seas of the Indian Ocean on the other. Inland, huge private reserves and National Parks host an amazing variety of bird and animal life, accessed by 4WD game drives from luxurious lodges.
Travel around South Africa and you will find small colonial towns interspersed with lively townships and, of course, no visit to the country is complete without a stay in beautiful Cape Town.
Driving in South Africa is easy, with quiet, well maintained roads wherever you go. Or you can sit back and enjoy the scenery as you let someone else do the work on one of several small group tours, or even a luxury rail journey.
Cape Town and Western Cape
The cosmopolitan city of Cape Town is a jewel in Africa’s crown. Set between a beautiful harbour and the iconic Table Mountain, it boasts fine colonial buildings, thought provoking museums, great shopping and some excellent cafés and restaurants.
Further afield are the Cape Winelands, home to some of the finest wines in the world, and the rugged coastline and beaches around the famous Cape of Good Hope.
Garden Route and Eastern Cape
The Garden Route is a popular touring route combining impressive mountain scenery, with rolling plains, spectacular gorges and dramatic coastlines. You will pass through vineyards, fertile farmland and even ostrich fields as you journey across South Africa’s southern tip. Stay in Knysna or Plettenburg for some great beaches.
Around Port Elizabeth are some superb game reserves and lodges, where you can see the ‘Big 5’ and more from the relative comfort of a 4WD game drive.
Durban and KwaZulu-Natal
The holiday city of Durban is gateway to this wonderful region, which is easy to explore by coach or as a self drive.
North of Durban are the Hluhluwe National Park and world heritage listed St Lucia Wetlands. Head inland to discover the famous ‘Battlefields’, home of great battles between the native Zulus, Dutch Boers and British troops. Around this area, and the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains to the west, you will see the thatched roundel homes of the local Zulu people.
Johannesburg and the North West
Many holidaymakers to South Africa pass through Johannesburg and it is worth paying a visit the city’s Apartheid Museum and massive Soweto Township. Adjoining Pretoria is the centre of government and has a more gentile air. The luxurious Rovos Rail and Blue Train run from here.
To the north west are the casinos, shows and leisure facilities of Sun City and the excellent games reserves of Pilanesberg and Madikwe, on the border with Botswana.
Kruger National Park
The world famous Kruger National Park is home to an amazing diversity of wildlife species, all in their natural environment. The superb game lodges in and around the park provide pampered, relaxing accommodation, with the excitement of 4WD drive game drives, wildlife walks and other activities. Or drive yourself around the Kruger in your rental car and stay in comfortable rest camps overnight.
Close to the Kruger National Park, the gorges and spectacular views of the Blyde River Canyon are well worth a visit
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