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A land of vibrant cultures and contrasts, stunning natural beauty and diverse landscapes, it’s no surprise that South Africa finds its way onto the bucket list of millions of international travelers.

From the culinary delights of Cape Town to the rugged Drakensberg mountains and the astonishing wildlife of the many national parks, there really is something for everyone in South Africa. These are some of our favorites!

Safari in Style in the Land of the Zulu Warriors

Safari in South Africa

Those visiting Africa for the first time almost always want the chance to observe the famous Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) in the wild, but a safari in KZN is a great way to combine this experience with a touch of culture and luxury thrown in too!

At Thanda Safari Private Game Reserve, visitors not only have the chance to experience the classic game drive holiday, but they also have the option of a luxurious and soothing spa treatment after a long day exploring the African bushveld too.

Wine-tasting in Cape Town

Winetasting in South Africa

The breathtakingly beautiful Cape Winelands have to be one of the most scenic spots on the planet, and are a beloved holiday destination for locals and international guests alike.

Enjoy world class gourmet cuisine with an expertly paired wine right from the vineyard, cellar tours, romantic picnic spots, and quaint historic towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

Self-drive tours are one of the best ways to enjoy the wine region, traveling along at your leisure while you take in the gorgeous views, and stopping off wherever the mood takes you!

Marvel at the Mountains of the Drakensberg

The Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa

Just two hours’ drive from Durban, this 150 km long mountain range boasts impressively named peaks and features such as Giant’s Castle, Cathedral Peak, a 5km wall of rock called the Amphitheatre, and the 1000m high Tugela Falls at Mont-aux-Sources to name but a few.

Unsurprisingly, rock climbing, hiking and fly fishing are popular pastimes in the region, but make sure to explore some of the 30,000 San rock paintings hidden in the many caves too!

Cultural Tours in Johannesburg and Soweto

Visiting Soweto in South Africa

With so much culture and history packed into one city, it’s not surprising that a thriving cultural tourism market has blossomed in the City of Gold. Even better, tours and accommodation are available for every kind of budget, so even those traveling on a shoestring can take advantage of the city’s rich heritage.

Highlights include visits to Nelson Mandela’s former home, bike tours of Soweto, visiting the Apartheid Museum and Regina Mundi Church, sampling some local cuisine and street food and much, much more.

Surf’s Up in Durban  

Beach in Durban South Africa

The warm Indian Ocean lends a distinctly tropical air to this bustling city, and it’s long been a haven for advanced surfers. Those who wish to try it for the first time, however, should make their way to Addington Beach, where the harbor to the south protects visitors from the large swells. This creates ideal learning conditions for even complete beginners, and kids as young as four can get in on the action!

Group and private lessons are on offer, and all your gear will be provided for you too. Even if you find you don’t have a knack for the sport, splashing about in the deliciously warm waves is sure to provide a great day out!

Cango Caves and Ostriches in Oudtshoorn

Caves in Oudtshoorn South Africa

The magnificent Cango Caves of Oudtshoorn are nothing less than an underground wonderworld, sculpted by nature over some 20 million years! Unusually for cave systems, the variety of routes means that couch potatoes and advanced spelunkers alike will find a level to suit them just fine.

One of the biggest highlights is a magnificent 9m high formation called Cleopatra’s Needle, which is believed to be more than 150,000 years old. While you’re in the area, make sure to stop off at an ostrich farm to meet some new feathered friends, and maybe even try giving a daring ostrich ride a go if you’re feeling particularly brave!

Go… Skiing?

Skiing in South Africa

Now when you think Africa, skiing and snowboarding are certainly not the first things that come to mind – but at just over 2700 meters above sea level, you can do just this at Tiffindell Ski Resort in the Eastern Cape! And for those of a less athletic persuasion, it’s a lovely opportunity just to play in the snow and make a snowman.

From snowy peaks to once in a lifetime wildlife experiences, sandy beaches to mysterious caves and everything in between – it’s not hard to see why South Africa is one of the world’s most beloved holiday destinations.

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