South Africa has it all. Cape Town is the most culturally vibrant city in Southern Africa, and you can whale, dolphin, and even penguin watch off the coast. Drive along the Garden Route for picturesque vineyards and historic towns, or head inland for a spectacular Big Five safari.
South Africa’s Garden Route winds 300 km along the coast of the Cape, starting in Mossel Bay and finishing in Storm’s River. Highlights of the route include 10 nature reserves, nursery sites for southern right whale, and some of the very best new world wineries.
There are plenty of reasons to consider a malaria free safari, especially if you’re travelling with very young children and babies. South Africa has some superb malaria free reserves in the Eastern Cape and the northwest, including the Madikwe Private Game Reserve, a Big Five reserve.
South Africa’s Cape Peninsula divides the Atlantic from the Indian Ocean. At its heart is Cape Town, overlooked by the Table Mountain National Park; and either side are the provinces of Eastern and Western Cape, famed for their vineyards, historic towns, and striking coastlines.
The first steam powered locomotive in South Africa pulled out of Durban in 1860 on its way to Harbour Point. Within 50 years, the entire country was criss crossed by railway lines. Travelling by train remains the finest way to explore South Africa, especially aboard the luxurious Rovos Rail.
Getting out into the wilderness to see South Africa’s big game doesn’t have to be a hardship. In fact, you can combine Big Five game viewing with world class accommodation when you stay in one of the luxurious lodges located on the private game reserves adjoining the Kruger National Park.