Known as the whole world in one country. Experience South Africa’s diverse landscapes, enormous beauty and fascinating cultures. The country caters to all kinds of pleasure seekers, from adrenaline junkies and safari enthusiasts to beach babies and wine connoisseurs.
- Geared for tourism with excellent infrastructure and superb facilities
- Blue flag beaches on the Indian Ocean and Atlantic coastlines. From the postcard perfect Clifton Beaches in Cape Town to the pristine Dolphin Coast of KwaZulu Natal, you can be sure to enjoy a watery wonderland with exciting possibilities
- Wine tasting and more as you explore the scenic Route 62, the longest wine route in the world. A highlight for wine connoisseurs, traverse this picturesque part of South Africa, taking in the spectacular vistas of towering cliffs, crystal clear streams and an abundance of trees and indigenous flora.
- Big 5 Safaris in large National Parks and private game concessions. Spend a couple of days in the heart of the unspoiled wilderness where explosive wildlife encounters are guaranteed. Look out for Africa’s Big 5 and other eclectic wildlife species.
- Historical and cultural diversity with museums and tours.
TOP 5 SOUTH AFRICA HIGHLIGHTS
- WESTERN CAPE Put your hiking boots on and climb Table Mountain before riding the surf in Muizenberg. Enjoy shark diving in Hermanus and wine tours along the scenic cape wine route. Not to mention the historical Robben Island plus effervescent nightlife. The mother city of Cape Town is one of the most visited in the world.
- THE DRAKENSBERG AND MIDLANDS Feast your eyes on the breathtaking terrain with verdant indigenous. Go on hiking or horse trails and game viewing safaris. Quench your thirst for culture and history with tours to historical battlefields and Zulu cultural villages.
- NAMAQUALAND A semi-arid desert area famous for its vast blue skies and infinite deserts that stretch as far as the eye can see, Namaqualand invites you to witness nature’s great phenomenon. Pick your time perfectly and you will be treated to an enchanting display of millions upon millions of wild flowers bursting into life.
- GARDEN ROUTE Take a scenic drive along the Garden Route, exploring the quaint towns as you go. Fantastic watersports, big 5 encounters and bird watching excursions galore.
- KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Get a bird’s eye view of the astounding wildlife on hot air balloon safaris. Perhaps a closer encounter on self-drives or guided game drives? Discover some of the 254 cultural heritage sites and the Stone Age artifacts within.
TIPS FOR TRAVELING SOUTH AFRICA
CURRENCY The Rand (ZAR) is the local currency and the only currency in use for purchases. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATM’s are plentiful. Foreign exchange bureau’s can change international money into the local currency and are situated in most shopping centers in big cities and airports.
CLIMATE South Africa’s climatic conditions generally range from Mediterranean in the southwestern corner of to temperate in the interior plateau, and subtropical in the northeast. A small area in the northwest has a desert climate. Most of the country has warm, sunny days and cool nights. Summer is from November to March with temperatures ranging from 25° – 40°C. Winters can get cold depending on where you are with temperatures below freezing in certain regions.
WHAT TO PACK If your safari is in winter, you will need a thick fleece or jacket for those early morning and evening game drives. You may want to consider a beanie and gloves too. Summer temperatures can get very hot and so shorts, t-shirts and loose, light fitting clothing is preferable. Costumes are a must, as is comfortable walking shoes for hikes and walks. Sunscreen, a cap and smart casual clothes for dining out.
PEAK HOLIDAY SEASON If you plan to come on safari, the cooler winter months of May – September is your best bet as animal sightings will be more prevalent. For those planning on coming for the beach and sunshine, the best time of year is December – February when temperatures reach their highest.
