The Cape Peninsula, South Africa Photo credit: Abu Shawka
South Africa has been billed as 'a world in one country', and offers visitors myriad delights, from its spectacular landscapes and wildlife, to the cosmopolitan vibe of its cities and the fascinating history of its people.
Throughout the second half of the 20th century, South Africa was regarded by much of the world as a pariah state where the ruling white minority passed a range of draconian laws to subdue the black majority. All this changed in 1994 with the release from prison of world-renowned freedom fighter and icon of the oppressed, Nelson Mandela. A new age of democracy was ushered in, and South Africa was revealed to the world in her true colours: a rainbow nation with a kaleidoscope of cultures and a host of attractions to enthral and entrance visitors.
More than a two decades later, tourists are flocking to sunny South Africa in droves, particularly to the Western Cape with its magnificent scenery, beautiful beaches, majestic mountains and verdant winelands. Johannesburg remains the commercial capital of the nation, and is also the gateway to the Kruger National Park and other major game reserves.
Comprising the southern tip of Africa and surrounded on three sides by the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, South Africa offers a taste of the African experience while at the same time offering all the pleasures of a first-world holiday experience, with luxury hotels, wonderful food and pristine beaches. Travellers can have breakfast in a New York-style deli, lunch in an African shebeen, cocktails on a sunset cruise, and dinner in a world-class restaurant.
It is not just the dramatic landscapes and natural beauty that make South Africa magical. Historically, too, there is plenty to discover, from the old African kingdoms, to the pioneering spirit of the Dutch Voortrekkers and the settlement of the Eastern Cape frontier by the British colonialists, and of course the more recent history of the apartheid state and the liberation struggle.
With its winter sun, an easy overnight flight and little time difference, South Africa is particularly popular with European visitors, but it welcomes all travellers with open arms and truly has a whole world to offer them.
Key Facts
Language:
South Africa has 11 official languages, including Afrikaans, English, Xhosa, Zulu, and Sotho. English is widely spoken.
Passport/Visa:
Passports should be valid for at least 30 days beyond the period of intended stay. An onward or return ticket is required, as is evidence of sufficient funds. Note that visitors to South Africa must have at least one blank (unstamped) visa page in their passport, each time entry is sought; this page is in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. However, nationals of countries that require a visa before travelling to South Africa, must have two blank pages in their passport - one for issuing a visa prior to departure and one for stamping at the port of entry when entering South Africa.
Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. The South African Immigration Authorities do not accept loose leaf temporary travel documents. Note that South Africa's immigration laws have changed dramatically over the last two years, and there may be some confusion as to the correct procedure.
Currency:
South Africa's currency is the Rand (ZAR), which is divided into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change, and the larger hotels. ATMs are widely available and major international credit cards are widely accepted. Visitors should be vigilant when drawing cash from ATMs, as con artists are known to operate there. All commercial banks will exchange foreign currency.
Electricity:
Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. Round, three-pin plugs and round, two-pin plugs are standard.
Travel to South Africa
Overview
South Africa is a sightseer's paradise, with plenty to see and do no matter the traveller's interests, time frame, age, or inclination.
There is natural splendour in abundance, including the beautiful beaches and iconic Table Mountain of Cape Town, the magnificent Drakensberg Mountains, the Blyde River Canyon, the stunning scenery of the coastal Garden Route, the pristine coastline of the Transkei, and the sweeping vistas of the Highveld. Of course, the animals of South Africa, especially the Big Five, are a big draw for tourists and game safaris are a very popular diversion. The Kruger National Park is the country's most famous wildlife reserve and a must for many visitors.
South Africa has a complicated and dramatic history and the legacy of the pioneer wars, slavery, colonialism, the Boer War and Apartheid is still strongly felt. There is no shortage of interesting historical sightseeing, with sites like Robben Island - where Mandela was imprisoned - and the battlefields of the Boer War attracting many visitors. The country has many quaint historical towns, like Franschoek in the Cape Winelands, and Grahamstown in the 'frontier country' of the Eastern Cape. South Africa also has its share of museums and galleries, and the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is particularly noteworthy.
The country is easy to get around with competitive low-cost carriers, long distance buses, good value car hire and the best roads in Africa. Road tripping is a wonderful way to experience the hugely diverse landscapes and cultures of this vast country.
South Africa is one of the few global destinations that can offer the complete holiday experience, with a huge variety of world-class attractions and compelling experiences, and incredible value for money to boot.
Climate in South Africa
South Africa is a large country and has diverse climactic regions, so travellers should check the climate for the region they'll be visiting. In general the weather is sunny and hot in the summer months (November to February), and fairly mild during winter (June to August). The weather in autumn (March to May) and spring (September to October) is less predictable and more changeable.
The Cape has a Mediterranean climate with mild, wet winters, and hot, dry, sunny summers. The average temperatures in Cape Town in the summer range between 61°F (16°C) and 79°F (26°C), and in winter average between 47°F (8°C) and 64°F (18°C). Some snow does fall on the mountain ranges during the winter.
Gauteng and the northern regions have a subtropical highland climate with plenty of sunshine during hot summers, when thunderstorms regularly occur in the late afternoon and evening. Winters are dry and sunny with cold nights. Temperatures occasionally drop below freezing at night in the north. The average temperatures in Johannesburg (Gauteng) in the summer range between 58°F (15°C) and 78°F (25°C), and in winter range between 39°F (4°C) and 80°F (16°C).
The best time to visit South Africa differs hugely depending on region and desired activities but summer is the peak tourist season for coastal regions. Spring and autumn tend to be mild and pleasant seasons for travel.
Health Notes when travelling to South Africa
Health regulations in South Africa require that travellers from areas infected by yellow fever must carry a vaccination certificate; otherwise no vaccinations are required. There is a malaria risk in the low-lying areas of the Northern Province and Mpumalanga (including the Kruger National Park), as well as northeastern KwaZulu-Natal, and precautions are advised when travelling to these areas, especially between October and May. Vaccinations are recommended for hepatitis A, hepatitis B and typhoid. There is a high prevalence of HIV/AIDS in South Africa. Tap water is generally safe in urban areas but sterilisation is advisable elsewhere, as there are periodic outbreaks of cholera in the poor communities of rural South Africa, particularly in northern KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, and Limpopo provinces.
Medical facilities in South Africa are good in urban areas, but medical insurance is strongly advised as private hospitals expect cash up front and public hospitals are best avoided. Medication is readily available in urban areas, but those travelling outside of major cities for an extended period should bring a basic supply kit for emergency self-treatment.
Safety Notes when travelling to South Africa
Safety is an issue and visitors to South Africa should be aware of the country's high crime rate. Violent crime tends to be concentrated in pockets throughout the country and travellers should do some research to find out which areas to avoid. For instance, Berea and Hillbrow in Johannesburg are high-risk areas, and township areas in general are dangerous for foreigners.
There is a risk of petty, opportunistic crime in all urban areas and armed robberies are fairly common in Johannesburg. Travellers should always be aware of these risks and exercise the necessary precautions. Carjackings and smash-and-grab robberies are common in major cities, and doors should be locked when driving and bags and valuables should be kept out of sight. Travellers should not walk alone at night in any area, and should be vigilant when using ATMs. They should not display signs of wealth (e.g. mobile phones, money, expensive jewellery, cameras) on the streets. Credit card fraud is on the increase and travellers should be vigilant and never allow their card out of their sight.
It is worthwhile noting that the South African authorities do give high priority to the protection of tourists. Although crime rates are high in South Africa, popular tourist sites and the main hotel areas tend to be safe and most visits are trouble-free.
Customs in South Africa
South African culture and etiquette in urban areas is very Western. While standards of dress vary, beachwear should generally not to be worn off the beach, and nude sunbathing is only permissible in a few designated areas. Homosexuality is legal and accepted in urban areas without much fuss, but it is frowned on by some conservative South Africans and can be a problem in township areas. Although locals may complain loudly about the country and government, they will take offense if a foreigner is critical. Racism is a sensitive issue; however, interracial relationships are now common and widely accepted. South African racial terminology differs from what is acceptable in North America: the terms 'black' and 'white' are appropriate for those of African and Caucasian descent, respectively. 'Coloured' refers not to black Africans, but those of mixed African and European descent and is not considered an offensive term. South Africans are friendly and hospitable, and will often go
out of their way to assist tourists who need help.
Duty Free in South Africa
Travellers to South Africa do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, 20 cigars and 250g of tobacco; 2 litres wine and 1 litre spirits; perfume up to 50ml and 250ml eau de toilette; and other goods to the value of R5,000. All other goods brought in from abroad by South African residents must be declared on arrival. These will be subject to import duties. For goods to be re-imported, travellers must complete a DA65 or NEP-form that is issued on departure. Prohibited items include meat and dairy products, all medication except for personal consumption, flick knives, ammunition, explosives and pornography containing minors and bestiality.
Doing Business in South Africa
Business practices in South Africa are influenced by South Africa's range of ethnicities, languages and even geographical areas, but in general follow common patterns. When doing business in South Africa it is important to be culturally sensitive and as understanding of colleagues' historical context as possible. Most South Africans prefer to do business with contacts they've met before, but they are also warm and open to newcomers. Working to build and maintain business relationships is vitally important in the South African business environment. South Africans are renowned for their friendliness which generally supersedes business formality.
Most large corporations, as well as the banking and financial sector, still adopt relatively formal business practices, whereas other companies and work environments enjoy more relaxed and personable atmospheres. Clear management hierarchies and respect for senior executives and colleagues are of paramount importance. However, business exchanges and decision-making processes often take on an egalitarian aspect. As with most countries, punctuality is highly regarded. However, government officials are notorious for their tardiness when it comes to keeping time. Dress codes tend to be conservative, but not overly formal. Suits are the exception more than the rule, but dressing stylishly will always count in your favour. It is best to dress formally for initial meetings.
South Africans value hard work and respect those who succeed. However, they are mindful of other aspects of life such as healthy living, family and nurturing relationships - all of which add up to a well-balanced life. Generally South Africans are regarded as relaxed and informal with regards to introductions and the handling of business cards. Shaking hands is common for both men and women. The giving of gifts is uncommon and unnecessary. The official language of business in South Africa is English. Business hours tend to start at 8:30am or 9am and the day comes to a close at 5pm, or later in the major urban centres. Working over weekends tends to be quite rare in South Africa.
Communication in South Africa
The international access code for South Africa is +27. Mobile phone networks are available across the country, and there are roaming agreements with most international mobile operators. Mobile service providers offer very cheap 'pay-as-you-go' SIM cards, which are a good option for visitors staying for some time. Wifi is easily available, especially in the larger cities.
Tipping in South Africa
Tips of at least 10 percent are expected for good service if a service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping for services rendered is widely anticipated by porters, taxi drivers and petrol attendants. Golf caddies should be tipped accordingly. 'Car guards' operate in the city centres and tourist spots and will offer to look after parked car; they are usually immigrants from neighbouring countries looking for work and will expect anything from R8 upwards on the driver's return, depending on how long the driver will have been away.
Passport/Visa Note
Passports should be valid for at least 30 days beyond the period of intended stay. An onward or return ticket is required, as is evidence of sufficient funds. Note that visitors to South Africa must have at least one blank (unstamped) visa page in their passport, each time entry is sought; this page is in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. However, nationals of countries that require a visa before travelling to South Africa, must have two blank pages in their passport - one for issuing a visa prior to departure and one for stamping at the port of entry when entering South Africa.
Immigration officials often apply different rules to those stated by travel agents and official sources. The South African Immigration Authorities do not accept loose leaf temporary travel documents. Note that South Africa's immigration laws have changed dramatically over the last two years, and there may be some confusion as to the correct procedure.
Entry Requirements
Entry requirements for Americans:
United States nationals need a passport valid for at least 30 days beyond intended travel. A visa is required.
Entry requirements for Canadians:
Canadian nationals need a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, but no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for UK nationals:
British nationals need a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, but no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days if passport is endorsed British Citizen or British Overseas Territories Citizen. Those whose passports state British National (Overseas) may stay up to 30 days without a visa.
Entry requirements for Australians:
Australian nationals need a passport valid for 30 days beyond the date of intended travel, but no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for Irish nationals:
Irish nationals require a passport valid for 30 days beyond intended travel, but no visa is needed for stays of up to 90 days.
Entry requirements for New Zealanders:
New Zealand nationals require a passport valid for 30 days beyond intended travel. A visa is not required for stays of up to 90 days.
Tourist Offices
South African Tourism, Johannesburg: +27 11 895 3000 or http://www.southafrica.net
South Africa Embassies
In the United States:
South African Embassy, Washington, United States: +1 202 232 4400.
In Canada:
South African High Commission, Ottawa, Canada: +1 613 744 0330.
In the United Kingdom:
South African High Commission, London, United Kingdom: +44 20 7451 7299.
In Australia:
South African High Commission, Canberra, Australia (also responsible for New Zealand): +61 2 6272 7300.
In Ireland:
South African Embassy, Dublin, Ireland: +353 1 661 5553.
Foreign Embassies in South Africa
American Embassy
United States Embassy, Pretoria: +27 12 431 4000.
Canadian Embassy
Canadian High Commission, Pretoria: +27 12 422 3000.
British Embassy
British High Commission, Pretoria: +27 12 421 7500.
Australian Embassy
Australian High Commission, Pretoria: +27 12 423 6000.
Irish Embassy
Irish Embassy, Pretoria: +27 12 452 1000.
New Zealand Embassy
New Zealand High Commission, Pretoria: +27 12 435 9000.
Travel Advisories
Health Information for Travelers to South Africa
Content source: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in South Africa, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in South Africa. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in South Africa, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in South Africa, see malaria in South Africa.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in South Africa, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to South Africa
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in South Africa. The government of South Africa requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Make sure you are up-to-date on routine vaccines before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanus-pertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot.
Most travelers
Get travel vaccines and medicines because there is a risk of these diseases in the country you are visiting.
CDC recommends this vaccine because you can get hepatitis A through contaminated food or water in South Africa, regardless of where you are eating or staying.
You can get typhoid through contaminated food or water in South Africa. CDC recommends this vaccine for most travelers, especially if you are staying with friends or relatives, visiting smaller cities or rural areas, or if you are an adventurous eater.
Some travelers
Ask your doctor what vaccines and medicines you need based on where you are going, how long you are staying, what you will be doing, and if you are traveling from a country other than the US.
You can get hepatitis B through sexual contact, contaminated needles, and blood products, so CDC recommends this vaccine if you might have sex with a new partner, get a tattoo or piercing, or have any medical procedures.
When traveling in South Africa, you should avoid mosquito bites to prevent malaria. You may need to take prescription medicine before, during, and after your trip to prevent malaria, depending on your travel plans, such as where you are going, when you are traveling, and if you are spending a lot of time outdoors or sleeping outside. Talk to your doctor about how you can prevent malaria while traveling. For more information on malaria in South Africa, see malaria in South Africa.
Rabies can be found in dogs, bats, and other mammals in South Africa, so CDC recommends this vaccine for the following groups:
Travelers involved in outdoor and other activities (such as camping, hiking, biking, adventure travel, and caving) that put them at risk for animal bites.
People who will be working with or around animals (such as veterinarians, wildlife professionals, and researchers).
People who are taking long trips or moving to South Africa
Children, because they tend to play with animals, might not report bites, and are more likely to have animal bites on their head and neck.
There is no risk of yellow fever in South Africa. The government of South Africa requires proof of yellow fever vaccination only if you are arriving from a country with risk of yellow fever. This does not include the US. If you are traveling from a country other than the US, check this list to see if you may be required to get the yellow fever vaccine: Countries with risk of yellow fever virus (YFV) transmission.
Learn actions you can take to stay healthy and safe on your trip. Vaccines cannot protect you from many diseases in South Africa, so your behaviors are important.
Eat and drink safely
Unclean food and water can cause travelers' diarrhea and other diseases. Reduce your risk by sticking to safe food and water habits.
Eat
Food that is cooked and served hot
Hard-cooked eggs
Fruits and vegetables you have washed in clean water or peeled yourself
Pasteurized dairy products
Don't Eat
Food served at room temperature
Food from street vendors
Raw or soft-cooked (runny) eggs
Raw or undercooked (rare) meat or fish
Unwashed or unpeeled raw fruits and vegetables
Unpasteurized dairy products
”Bushmeat” (monkeys, bats, or other wild game)
Drink
Bottled water that is sealed
Water that has been disinfected
Ice made with bottled or disinfected water
Carbonated drinks
Hot coffee or tea
Pasteurized milk
Don’t Drink
Tap or well water
Ice made with tap or well water
Drinks made with tap or well water (such as reconstituted juice)
Unpasteurized milk
Take Medicine
Talk with your doctor about taking prescription or over-the-counter drugs with you on your trip in case you get sick.
Bugs (like mosquitoes, ticks, and fleas) can spread a number of diseases in South Africa. Many of these diseases cannot be prevented with a vaccine or medicine. You can reduce your risk by taking steps to prevent bug bites.
What can I do to prevent bug bites?
Cover exposed skin by wearing long-sleeved shirts, long pants, and hats.
Use an appropriate insect repellent (see below).
Use permethrin-treated clothing and gear (such as boots, pants, socks, and tents). Do not use permethrin directly on skin.
Stay and sleep in air-conditioned or screened rooms.
Use a bed net if the area where you are sleeping is exposed to the outdoors.
What type of insect repellent should I use?
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST TICKS AND MOSQUITOES: Use a repellent that contains 20% or more DEET for protection that lasts up to several hours.
FOR PROTECTION AGAINST MOSQUITOES ONLY: Products with one of the following active ingredients can also help prevent mosquito bites. Higher percentages of active ingredient provide longer protection.
If your travel plans in South Africa include outdoor activities, take these steps to stay safe and healthy during your trip.
Stay alert to changing weather conditions and adjust your plans if conditions become unsafe.
Prepare for activities by wearing the right clothes and packing protective items, such as bug spray, sunscreen, and a basic first aid kit.
Consider learning basic first aid and CPR before travel. Bring a travel health kit with items appropriate for your activities.
Heat-related illness, such as heat stroke, can be deadly. Eat and drink regularly, wear loose and lightweight clothing, and limit physical activity during high temperatures.
If you are outside for many hours in heat, eat salty snacks and drink water to stay hydrated and replace salt lost through sweating.
Protect yourself from UV radiation: use sunscreen with an SPF of at least 15, wear protective clothing, and seek shade during the hottest time of day (10 a.m.–4 p.m.).
Be especially careful during summer months and at high elevation. Because sunlight reflects off snow, sand, and water, sun exposure may be increased during activities like skiing, swimming, and sailing.
Very cold temperatures can be dangerous. Dress in layers and cover heads, hands, and feet properly if you are visiting a cold location.
Stay safe around water
Swim only in designated swimming areas. Obey lifeguards and warning flags on beaches.
Practice safe boating—follow all boating safety laws, do not drink alcohol if driving a boat, and always wear a life jacket.
Do not dive into shallow water.
Do not swim in freshwater in developing areas or where sanitation is poor.
Avoid swallowing water when swimming. Untreated water can carry germs that make you sick.
To prevent infections, wear shoes on beaches where there may be animal waste.
Schistosomiasis, a parasitic infection that can be spread in fresh water, is found in South Africa. Avoid swimming in fresh, unchlorinated water, such as lakes, ponds, or rivers.
Most animals avoid people, but they may attack if they feel threatened, are protecting their young or territory, or if they are injured or ill. Animal bites and scratches can lead to serious diseases such as rabies.
Follow these tips to protect yourself:
Do not touch or feed any animals you do not know.
Do not allow animals to lick open wounds, and do not get animal saliva in your eyes or mouth.
Avoid rodents and their urine and feces.
Traveling pets should be supervised closely and not allowed to come in contact with local animals.
If you wake in a room with a bat, seek medical care immediately. Bat bites may be hard to see.
All animals can pose a threat, but be extra careful around dogs, bats, monkeys, sea animals such as jellyfish, and snakes. If you are bitten or scratched by an animal, immediately:
Wash the wound with soap and clean water.
Go to a doctor right away.
Tell your doctor about your injury when you get back to the United States.
Consider buying medical evacuation insurance. Rabies is a deadly disease that must be treated quickly, and treatment may not be available in some countries.
Review your health insurance plan to determine what medical services it would cover during your trip. Consider purchasing travel health and medical evacuation insurance.
Carry a card that identifies, in the local language, your blood type, chronic conditions or serious allergies, and the generic names of any medications you take.
Some prescription drugs may be illegal in other countries. Call South Africa’s embassy to verify that all of your prescription(s) are legal to bring with you.
Bring all the medicines (including over-the-counter medicines) you think you might need during your trip, including extra in case of travel delays. Ask your doctor to help you get prescriptions filled early if you need to.
Many foreign hospitals and clinics are accredited by the Joint Commission International. A list of accredited facilities is available at their website (www.jointcommissioninternational.org).
In some countries, medicine (prescription and over-the-counter) may be substandard or counterfeit. Bring the medicines you will need from the United States to avoid having to buy them at your destination.
Malaria is a risk in some parts of South Africa. If you are going to a risk area, fill your malaria prescription before you leave, and take enough with you for the entire length of your trip. Follow your doctor’s instructions for taking the pills; some need to be started before you leave.
Motor vehicle crashes are the #1 killer of healthy US citizens in foreign countries.
In many places cars, buses, large trucks, rickshaws, bikes, people on foot, and even animals share the same lanes of traffic, increasing the risk for crashes.
Walking
Be smart when you are traveling on foot.
Use sidewalks and marked crosswalks.
Pay attention to the traffic around you, especially in crowded areas.
Remember, people on foot do not always have the right of way in other countries.
Riding/Driving
Choose a safe vehicle.
Choose official taxis or public transportation, such as trains and buses.
Ride only in cars that have seatbelts.
Avoid overcrowded, overloaded, top-heavy buses and minivans.
Avoid riding on motorcycles or motorbikes, especially motorbike taxis. (Many crashes are caused by inexperienced motorbike drivers.)
Choose newer vehicles—they may have more safety features, such as airbags, and be more reliable.
Choose larger vehicles, which may provide more protection in crashes.
Think about the driver.
Do not drive after drinking alcohol or ride with someone who has been drinking.
Consider hiring a licensed, trained driver familiar with the area.
Arrange payment before departing.
Follow basic safety tips.
Wear a seatbelt at all times.
Sit in the back seat of cars and taxis.
When on motorbikes or bicycles, always wear a helmet. (Bring a helmet from home, if needed.)
Avoid driving at night; street lighting in certain parts of South Africa may be poor.
Do not use a cell phone or text while driving (illegal in many countries).
Travel during daylight hours only, especially in rural areas.
If you choose to drive a vehicle in South Africa, learn the local traffic laws and have the proper paperwork.
Get any driving permits and insurance you may need. Get an International Driving Permit (IDP). Carry the IDP and a US-issued driver's license at all times.
Check with your auto insurance policy's international coverage, and get more coverage if needed. Make sure you have liability insurance.
Flying
Avoid using local, unscheduled aircraft.
If possible, fly on larger planes (more than 30 seats); larger airplanes are more likely to have regular safety inspections.
Try to schedule flights during daylight hours and in good weather.
Medical Evacuation Insurance
If you are seriously injured, emergency care may not be available or may not meet US standards. Trauma care centers are uncommon outside urban areas. Having medical evacuation insurance can be helpful for these reasons.
Helpful Resources
Road Safety Overseas (Information from the US Department of State): Includes tips on driving in other countries, International Driving Permits, auto insurance, and other resources.
Use the Healthy Travel Packing List for South Africa for a list of health-related items to consider packing for your trip. Talk to your doctor about which items are most important for you.
Why does CDC recommend packing these health-related items?
It’s best to be prepared to prevent and treat common illnesses and injuries. Some supplies and medicines may be difficult to find at your destination, may have different names, or may have different ingredients than what you normally use.
Be aware of current health issues in South Africa. Learn how to protect yourself.
Watch Level 1, Practice Usual Precautions
Malaria in South AfricaOctober 20, 2017Health officials in South Africa have reported limited cases of locally transmitted malaria in Gauteng Province, where Johannesburg and Pretoria are located. Local transmission means that mosquitoes in the area may have been infected with malaria and are spreading it to people.
If you are not feeling well after your trip, you may need to see a doctor. If you need help finding a travel medicine specialist, see Find a Clinic. Be sure to tell your doctor about your travel, including where you went and what you did on your trip. Also tell your doctor if you were bitten or scratched by an animal while traveling.
If your doctor prescribed antimalarial medicine for your trip, keep taking the rest of your pills after you return home. If you stop taking your medicine too soon, you could still get sick.
Malaria is always a serious disease and may be a deadly illness. If you become ill with a fever either while traveling in a malaria-risk area or after you return home (for up to 1 year), you should seek immediate medical attention and should tell the doctor about your travel history.
Map Disclaimer - The boundaries and names shown and the designations used on maps do not imply the expression of any opinion whatsoever on the part of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention concerning the legal status of any country, territory, city or area or of its authorities, or concerning the delimitation of its frontiers or boundaries. Approximate border lines for which there may not yet be full agreement are generally marked.
Currency
South Africa's currency is the Rand (ZAR), which is divided into 100 cents. Money can be exchanged at banks, bureaux de change, and the larger hotels. ATMs are widely available and major international credit cards are widely accepted. Visitors should be vigilant when drawing cash from ATMs, as con artists are known to operate there. All commercial banks will exchange foreign currency.
Exchange rate for 1 ZAR - South African Rand
0.00BMD Bermudan Dollar
0.06EUR Euro
0.06USD U.S. Dollar
0.05GBP U.K. Pound Sterling
8.18JPY Japanese Yen
0.08CAD Canadian Dollar
0.05CHF Swiss Franc
0.08AUD Australian Dollar
2.09UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
27.12KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
86.00LBP Lebanese Pound
0.28LYD Libyan Dinar
0.39BOB Bolivian Boliviano
7.25NPR Nepalese Rupee
0.02OMR Omani Rial
0.21QAR Qatari Rial
0.08SGD Singapore Dollar
0.61SEK Swedish Krona
0.39TTD Trinidad Tobago Dollar
0.00VEF Venezuelan Bolivar
3.02DOP Dominican Peso
0.43HRK Croatian Kuna
1.14MXN Mexican Peso
37.41XOF West African CFA Franc
0.20PGK Papua New Guinean kina
0.06BSD Bahamian Dollar
0.13FJD Fiji Dollar
1.40HNL Honduran Lempira
8.01DZD Algerian Dinar
119.62MMK Myanma Kyat
0.74BWP Botswana Pula
0.22PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
52.57CLP Chilean Peso
23.08AMD Armenia Dram
1.40CZK Czech Koruna
1.10MDL Moldova Lei
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Exchange Rate for U.S. Dollar to South African Rand
1 USD = 17.54 ZAR
Exchange Rate for Euro to South African Rand
1 EUR = 17.52 ZAR
Exchange Rate for Canadian Dollar to South African Rand
1 CAD = 13.29 ZAR
Exchange Rate for U.K. Pound Sterling to South African Rand
1 GBP = 20.16 ZAR
Exchange Rate for Australian Dollar to South African Rand
1 AUD = 11.79 ZAR
Exchange Rate for New Zealand Dollar to South African Rand
1 NZD = 10.50 ZAR
Cape Town Airport (CPT) Cape Town International Airport http://www.airports.co.za
Location: Cape Town The airport is situated 11 miles (18km) east of Cape Town.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 21 937 1200.
Getting to the city:
The MyCiti bus is the quickest and cheapest option for getting into the city, with an express to the city centre costing around ZAR 80 in addition to the once off ZAR 30 for a MyCiti card. Door-to-door minibus services are available for the journey to the city, taking approximately half an hour. Many hotels operate courtesy buses and a 24-hour backpacker bus is available hourly to many hostels. Other options include private services such as Uber and Taxify.
Car rental:
Car rental companies include Hertz, Avis, Europcar, Thrifty, and Tempest.
Airport Taxis:
A taxi to the centre of Cape Town takes approximately 30 minutes and the cost may vary depending on the time of day and number of passengers, generally amounting to between ZAR 150 and ZAR 250, with fares up to 50 percent more at night. Only Touch Down Taxis, the authorised airport taxi company, is allowed to operate from the airport.
Facilities:
ATMs, bars, restaurants, and currency exchange facilities are available throughout the airport. There are several shops, including duty-free in the International Departures section. A VAT refund service is available by the International check in desk. Hotel reservations and tourist information are also available.
Parking:
There is short and long-term parking in a multilevel parking garage connected to the terminal. Fees range from around ZAR 20 for the first hour in the cheapest parking area to a minimum charge of ZAR 725 (including five days of parking) in the long-term parking area. There is also a special pick-up area that offers free parking for 30 minutes.
Johannesburg Airport (JNB) O.R. Tambo International Airport (ORTIA) http://www.airports.co.za
Location: Johannesburg The airport is 12.7 miles (20.5km) east of Johannesburg.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 11 921 6262
Transfer between terminals:
The terminals are all connected.
Getting to the city:
The Gautrain provides fast and easy access to the Johannesburg city centre from the airport, with regular express trains to Sandton. An airport bus departs regularly to the city centre. Authorised shuttle buses and taxis are available; these display the ACSA logo on their vehicles. Hotel shuttle buses depart every 15 minutes from the bus terminal.
Car rental:
Car rental companies represented at the airport include Avis, Tempest, and Europcar.
Airport Taxis:
A metered taxi will take 30-40 minutes to the city centre. Taxis wait opposite the international arrivals terminal (Terminal A). Only official metered taxis should be taken.
Facilities:
Facilities at the airport include bureaux de change, banks, a post office, shops, restaurants and bars, viewing decks, a medical clinic, conference rooms, accommodation, free wifi, and a prayer room.
Parking:
Short-term parking charges at OR Tambo Airport range from around ZAR 30 for the first two hours in Parkade 1, to ZAR 20 for the first hour or ZAR 40 for two hours in Parkade 2. Official long-term parking lots cost approximately ZAR 390 for the first three days and are connected to the airport via shuttle bus.
Durban International Airport (DUR) Durban King Shaka International Airport http://www.acsa.co.za
Location: Durban The airport is 21 miles (34km) north of Durban.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 32 436 6758
Getting to the city:
The airport can be accessed by car via the N2 from Durban. Taxis are available and there are shuttles to the city centre and major beachfront hotels, which can booked through the airport's information desk.
Car rental:
Numerous car rental companies are represented at the airport including Avis, Alamo, Budget, Thrifty, Europcar, Dollar, National and Hertz.
Airport Taxis:
Many taxi companies operate from outside the arrivals terminal. The journey to the city takes from 30 minutes to an hour. Generally, the price is per journey and not per passenger. Private companies such as Uber also operate, providing transport to the city centre.
Facilities:
The newly built airport terminal has a modern and substantial range of facilities, including ATMs, banks, lounges, restaurants and bars, a prayer room, and a large variety of retail outlets. Disabled facilities are excellent, although those with special needs should contact their airline in advance.
Parking:
Plenty of parking is available within easy walking distance of the terminal. The pick-up zone is free for the first 20 minutes, tariffs beginning thereafter at ZAR 25. Multi-storey parking is also available as well as shaded and long-stay options.
Location: Kimberley The airport is situated five and a half miles (9km) south of Kimberley.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 53 830 7101
Getting to the city:
There is no bus service between the airport and the city, but taxi services are available on request and car hire agencies are available at the airport.
Car rental:
Car rental companies include Avis, Hertz and Europcar.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Facilities include a pub in the arrivals terminal, wifi, and an ATM.
Parking:
East London Airport (ELS) East London Airport http://www.airports.co.za
Location: East London The airport is located about three miles (5km) west of the city centre.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 43 706 0306
Getting to the city:
There is no public bus or transport from the airport. Shuttle companies leave from in front of the arrivals terminal. Bookings should be made in advance. Their schedule follows flight schedules.
Car rental:
Rental companies at the airport include Avis, Budget and Thrifty.
Airport Taxis:
Metered taxis are available from the airport; a helpdesk is available to give taxi information.
Facilities:
The airport has four ATMs in the departures hall and an information desk in the arrivals hall. Restaurants and shops are also available in the terminal building. Facilities also cater to disabled passengers.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available adjacent to the airport.
Bloemfontein Airport (BFN) Bram Fischer International Airport http://www.acsa.co.za
Location: Bloemfontein The airport is located 8 miles (13km) from the city centre.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 51 407 2200
Getting to the city:
Public transport servicing the airport is limited. Minibus taxis are available but are unreliable and often overcrowded. The best way to get to the city is by hired car or taxi.
Car rental:
Car rental companies at the airport include Avis, Hertz, Europcar, National, National Alamo, and Tempest.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis and shuttles, which should be booked in advance, are available just outside the terminal building. One should consider private services such as Uber.
Facilities:
The airport has a mobile phone rental shop, ATM, restaurants, and an information desk.
Parking:
Covered parking is available, starting at ZAR 22 per hour, while open parking begins at ZAR 16 per hour.
Port Elizabeth Airport (PLZ) Port Elizabeth International Airport http://www.acsa.co.za
Location: Port Elizabeth The airport is situated about two miles (3km) south of Port Elizabeth.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 41 507 7319
Getting to the city:
There is no public transport from the airport into Port Elizabeth. Minibuses may be available. However, most travellers find them uncomfortable and overcrowded with luggage. Visitors not hiring a car will find taxis the most convenient mode of transport. Uber is also an option.
Car rental:
Car rental companies include Avis, Europcar, Hertz, and Thrifty.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available at the airport. Pretty much anywhere in the city is within a 10-minute drive. It is best to insist that the driver uses the meter, but an additional airport pick-up fee may be charged. One should also consider private services such as Taxify and Uber.
Facilities:
Facilities include several shops as well as a restaurant, cafés, and conference facilities. An ATM is available for cash withdrawal.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available within easy walking distance from the terminal. The drop-and-go and pick-up zones directly outside the terminal are free for a limited time.
George Airport (GRJ) George Airport http://www.airports.co.za
Location: Garden Route The airport is situated around five and a half miles (9km) from George.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 44 876 9310.
Getting to the city:
Taxis are the only form of transport between the city and the airport. There are a small number of private companies operating on this route.
Car rental:
Car rental companies include Avis, Budget, Hertz, National, Thrifty, and Europcar.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Facilities include foreign exchange, ATMs for Nedbank and Standard Bank, conference facilities, cafés, and a few snack shops. The airport caters for disabled passengers.
Parking:
Kruger Mpumalanga Airport (MQP) Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport http://www.kmiairport.co.za
Location: Kruger National Park The airport is situated nearly 17 miles (27km) from Nelspruit at White River.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 13 753 7500
Getting to the city:
Taxis are available as well as a varied selection of shuttle services.
Car rental:
A number of car rental companies are located at the airport. These include Avis, Hertz, Thrifty, Europcar, First, Simplify, Bidvest, Tempest, and Budget.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
Facilities include a bureau de change, ATM, restaurant, cafés, bar, conference facilities, and curio shops.
Parking:
Short and long-term parking is available. Short-term parking begins at ZAR 5 per hour while daily parking costs ZAR 60.
Location: Kruger National Park The airport is situated around seven and a half miles (12km) from Hoedspruit and is found within the Hoedspruit Air Force Base Nature Reserve.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 15 793 3681
Getting to the city:
Car rental:
Avis has a rental office on site.
Airport Taxis:
Facilities:
A foreign exchange is available, as are ATMs, a small restaurant, and a curio shop.
Parking:
Richards Bay Airport (RCB) Richards Bay Airport http://www.richardsbayairport.co.za
Location: Richards Bay Richards Bay Airport is located seven miles (11km) from central Richards Bay.
Time: GMT +2
Contacts:
Tel: +27 35 789 9630
Getting to the city:
Taxis are available outside the arrivals hall.
Car rental:
Car rental companies are represented at the airport.
Airport Taxis:
Taxis are available outside the arrivals hall.
Facilities:
Food and refreshment are available for travellers, as are medical facilities.
Parking:
Parking is available.
Knysna Garden Route
Knysna, South Africa Photo credit: michael clarke stuff
The beautiful town of Knysna is clustered around a vast tidal lagoon which opens to the sea through a narrow inlet guarded by two sandstone cliffs known as 'The Heads'. Arguably the most popular holiday hub of the Garden Route, Knysna draws more visitors than it can cope with, particularly during the peak summer holiday season.
The town has an interesting history, having started as a point of export for timber cut from the surrounding dense forests (which have been badly denuded as a result). In the early 19th century, Knysna was almost solely owned by the enigmatic character George Rex, who was believed to be the illegitimate son of King George III of England. Rex fathered 13 children and is a legend in the Knysna area.
The town features some quaint Victorian houses, a modern commercial waterfront development, a lovely sandy beach at Leisure Isle on the east side of the lagoon, and some good shopping for local arts and crafts in the crowded town centre. There are some lovely scenic drives and walking trails through the remaining indigenous forests in the area, and sampling Knysna oysters and locally-brewed Mitchell's beer while on holiday here is highly recommended. The best time to visit Knysna is during its annual Oyster Festival, held every July, which includes live music, food, sporting events, and of course oysters!
Nightlife in Knysna
As evidenced by its popular food and music festivals, Knysna is an entertainment hub on the Garden Route and boasts a vibrant nightlife. This picturesque small town is home to more than 50 restaurants and pubs. There are also a handful of vibey dance clubs and live music venues. December and January is peak season in Knysna, with crowds of night-time revellers descending from along the coast; in the winter off-season the town is significantly quieter.
Shopping in Knysna
Knysna's three shopping malls have a variety of shops, and there are numerous local art, craft and curio shops in and around the town centre.
Things to do in Knysna
Knysna's location on the lagoon, near to forests, the sea and the mountains, means that there are a range of holiday activities on offer, from paddling to hiking, mountain biking and horseriding. The Heads Adventure Centre specialises in a variety of activities including abseiling and scuba diving. A really fun way to experience Knysna is to hire a house boat for a few days and sleep on the water.
Things to be aware of in Knysna
In the peak summer holiday season, Knysna gets very crowded and accommodation is difficult to find. The national highway N2 passes through the centre of town and traffic jams are common.
Dining in Knysna
In and around Knysna one will find a selection of fine restaurants, seafood taverns, pubs, coffee shops and eateries. The waterfront has a variety of restaurants, serving food like oysters and seafood as well as traditional South African fare. There are fine dining options and international fare includes Mexican, Italian, Moroccan and Asian.
Plettenberg Bay Garden Route
Plettenberg Bay, South Africa Photo credit: Hurkummer
The upmarket holiday town of Plettenberg Bay, about 380 miles (600km) from Cape Town and 125 miles (200km) from Port Elizabeth, was originally called
Bahia Formosa(Beautiful Bay) by the early Portuguese explorers, and it is still possible to see why, despite explosive development of luxury homes, hotels and a thriving town centre.
The town - familiarly known as 'Plett' - is a favourite holiday destination for South Africans and foreigners alike with its unspoilt golden beaches, year-round Mediterranean climate, dramatic rocky Robberg Peninsula, and vibrant nightlife. The bay is a nursery for the endangered Southern Right Whales, which arrive each winter and spring to calve.
Nightlife in Plettenberg Bay
Although Plett is a small town, the nightlife is fairly lively, yet laidback. Choices are somewhat limited. In summer most action takes place on or near the beach, beginning with sundowners in typical South African style at one of the lovely beach bars, but there are a few fun pubs and clubs for later evening entertainment with pool tables, live music and dancing. Travellers should note that Plett is one of a handful of South African coastal towns that draw massive crowds of school graduates at the end of the academic year (late November and early December), meaning that during this time the town is crowded and the nightlife is extremely frisky.
Shopping in Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay's shopping malls and a variety of shops provide everything that is needed by travellers, including clothing and speciality goods at several boutiques where souvenir-hunters can also find arts, crafts and antiques. Plett is by no means a shopper's paradise, but the town is well-equipped for self-caterers and holidaymakers.
Things to do in Plettenberg Bay
The surroundings of Plettenberg Bay provide a playground for sports enthusiasts and the list of activities is almost endless. Between July and December the bay is home to Southern Right Whales that come to calve in the protected waters. The lagoon and the bay itself are perfect for all sorts of water sports and activities including boat cruises and sailing, paddling, fishing, swimming, and scuba diving, while the beaches allow for long solitary walks and surfing.
The mountains and forests offer a variety of trails for hikers, mountain bikers and horse riders on holiday. Plett's golf courses are also highly regarded and provide plenty of challenges. There are numerous polo grounds in and around Plettenberg Bay; the best known is at Kurland, where major polo tournaments take place over Christmas and Easter.
Robberg Nature and Marine Reserve is only two and a half miles (4km) outside Plettenberg Bay, and offers the chance to view wildlife including penguins, Cape Fur Seals, Southern Right Whales, and the occasional Great White Shark.
Things to be aware of in Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay is best avoided over the Christmas holiday period when prices are double, accommodation is impossible to find and everything gets very crowded.
Dining in Plettenberg Bay
There are plenty of dining opportunities in Plettenberg Bay, from beach pubs, bistros and deli's to five star cuisine and award-winning à la carte menus. Foodies will find Thai, Italian, fresh seafood, steak and a variety of other choices on offer.
St Francis Bay Port Elizabeth
Photo credit:
St Francis Bay is a picturesque holiday village lying at the gateway to the Garden Route, one of South Africa's premier holiday destinations and an hour's drive from the city of Port Elizabeth. The bay was first sighted in 1575 by a Portuguese sailor who named the area St Francis after the Patron Saint of Sailors. The climate is temperate with warm summers and mild winters.
The Kromme River borders the one side of St Francis Bay, and is navigable for six miles (10km) upstream from the river mouth. The river and river mouth are popular with fishermen, boaters, canoeists, windsurfers, kite surfers and marine creatures which shelter in its waters. Linked to the river is a magnificent marina lined with white, thatched homes, some of which offer bed and breakfast accommodation. Canal cruises at sunset are popular here or else one can enjoy drinks or a meal at a restaurant overlooking the canals.
Port St Francis, a small harbour resort village, lies in a sheltered nook of the bay and provides a colourful setting and safe anchorage for calamari boats, pleasure craft, and ocean going yachts.
Cape St Francis, a rustic fishing village, sits adjacent to St Francis Bay. Cape St Francis is popular for surfing at Seal Point, its beautiful long stretch of beach, and the historic lighthouse built in 1878. Walking trails wind along the rocky coast, through the Irma Booysen Floral Reserve, and along the Cape St Francis Point, linking it to the village of St Francis Bay.
Nightlife in St Francis Bay
Eating out is popular and the restaurants and bars offer an opportunity to sample the large range of South African wines, which are very affordable in comparison with other countries. Nearby Jeffrey's Bay provides a much bigger range of nightlife options for those truly determined to party. During the December summer holiday season St Francis hosts a few big outdoor live music events and parties which are very popular with youngsters.
Shopping in St Francis Bay
The village has several small shops and art galleries that will cater to almost all your needs and ensure that you find some souvenirs to take back home. There are at least two fair sized supermarkets which will provide all your basic requirements. In high season most of the shops are open seven days a week.
Things to do in St Francis Bay
Whales can be spotted in the bay from May to late October and dolphins can be seen almost daily on their way back and forth between Cape St Francis and Jeffrey's Bay. The Cape Clawless Otter is also indigenous to the area, and can be spotted frolicking in the waves and rock pools around the Port of St Francis area and at Otters Landing.
Nature lovers can enjoy the hiking trails meandering through the nature reserves and along a dune river system, with its unique landscape, where you can view the area's 'Fynbos' (fine leafed indigenous plants) and see antelope roam freely. Over 200 species of birds have been recorded including the rare African Oyster Catcher and magnificent Fish Eagle.
St Francis Bay also has two 18 hole golf courses: St Francis Bay Golf Course and the St Francis Links, a Jack Nicklaus Signature Course.
The Addo Elephant Park, situated in a malaria free area, is a mere hour and a quarter's drive from St Francis Bay and offers the best elephant viewing in the world.
Cape St Francis and the nearby Jeffrey's Bay are both fantastic surfing destinations.
Things to be aware of in St Francis Bay
Outside of the peak summer season, St Francis doesn't have much of a nightlife. St Francis can be windy, so a windbreaker is essential.
Dining in St Francis Bay
St Francis Bay has a wide variety of restaurants and coffee shops that offer a reasonable selection of meals. Most restaurants in South Africa have a reputation for good food at affordable prices and St Francis Bay is no different. Most of the restaurants focus on seafood, with local calamari being a menu highlight.
Overview of the Attractions in South Africa
South Africa is a sightseer's paradise, with plenty to see and do no matter the traveller's interests, time frame, age, or inclination.
There is natural splendour in abundance, including the beautiful beaches and iconic Table Mountain of Cape Town, the magnificent Drakensberg Mountains, the Blyde River Canyon, the stunning scenery of the coastal Garden Route, the pristine coastline of the Transkei, and the sweeping vistas of the Highveld. Of course, the animals of South Africa, especially the Big Five, are a big draw for tourists and game safaris are a very popular diversion. The Kruger National Park is the country's most famous wildlife reserve and a must for many visitors.
South Africa has a complicated and dramatic history and the legacy of the pioneer wars, slavery, colonialism, the Boer War and Apartheid is still strongly felt. There is no shortage of interesting historical sightseeing, with sites like Robben Island - where Mandela was imprisoned - and the battlefields of the Boer War attracting many visitors. The country has many quaint historical towns, like Franschoek in the Cape Winelands, and Grahamstown in the 'frontier country' of the Eastern Cape. South Africa also has its share of museums and galleries, and the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg is particularly noteworthy.
The country is easy to get around with competitive low-cost carriers, long distance buses, good value car hire and the best roads in Africa. Road tripping is a wonderful way to experience the hugely diverse landscapes and cultures of this vast country.
South Africa is one of the few global destinations that can offer the complete holiday experience, with a huge variety of world-class attractions and compelling experiences, and incredible value for money to boot.
Cape Town Ostrich Ranch Cape Town
For fun encounters with one of South Africa's oddest and most unique animals, the Cape Town Ostrich Ranch is a great bet. The ranch is a good family attraction, but having kids along is not necessary to enjoy the experience. Although it is possible to explore the ranch independently, most people choose to join one of the organised tours, which are conducted in English, Afrikaans, German, and French. Tours in other languages may be possible if organised in advance. Tours take about 40 minutes and include the museum, the leather factory, and encounters with the various ostriches and other animals on the farm. The highlight for many visitors is the chance to sit astride an ostrich for a photo opportunity with the iconic Table Mountain in the distance. Those wanting to feed the ostriches will be able to buy feed at the ranch. The restaurant serves up a variety of snacks and meals in a lovely Cape Dutch garden setting, while the shop sells all sorts of ostrich products. A
playground and sand pit provide extra entertainment for kids. Children will also love the scratch patch, where they can select a variety of sparkly gemstones.
Address: Van Schoorsdrif Road, Philadelphia, Cape Town
Website: http://www.ostrichranch.co.za
Kruger National Park Johannesburg
The Kruger National Park is South Africa's oldest, largest and best-known wildlife conservation area, home to a huge variety of wildlife and most famous for its 'Big Five' viewing opportunities. Visitors have an excellent chance of seeing lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo and rhino among the enormous variety of wildlife, including over 140 species of mammals, 500 species of birds, reptiles and amphibians. Situated on South Africa's northeastern border, Kruger is a primary destination for international tourists, and is visited by more than half a million local and international visitors every year who are attracted by the different safari options as well as the park's excellent range of visitor facilities and choice of accommodation, from luxurious game lodges to cottages and camping. Because of the park's popularity, it is advisable to book far ahead for both day visits and extended stays. Bookings can be made through the park's website.
Kruger is a year-round destination, but the game viewing is at its best in the winter months, between June and August. The park is more lush and the landscapes more beautiful in summer but it gets very hot and the animals are more difficult to spot. The Kruger Park is generally very safe and tourists should be in no danger if they abide by the rules and treat the animals with respect; these are, after all, wild animals in their natural environment and some of them can be dangerous if they feel threatened.
Website: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/kruger
Table Mountain Cape Town
Opening time: Cable car operates daily (weather permitting) every 10-15 minutes from 8am to 8pm (November); 8am to 10pm (December to January); 8am to 8:30pm (February); 8am to 7:30pm (March); 8am to 6:30pm (April); 8:30am to 6pm (May to mid-September); 8:30am to 7pm (16 September to October). Closed for annual maintenance for about three weeks in July and August
Admission: Cable car: R225 return, R135 one way (adults); R125 return, R65 one way (children under 18). Other concessions available.
Cape Town's most popular tourist attraction is also its most famous physical feature. The flat-topped mountain stands as a sentinel over the city, and has been proclaimed a nature reserve, thereby protecting its diverse floral species. Some are unique to its slopes. The views of the city and coastline from the top of the mountain are quite spectacular in all directions. A Swiss-built rotating cable car carries visitors smoothly up the mountain and back. The mountaintop is equipped with a restaurant and small gift shop, as well as numerous pathways and vantage points. It is possible to climb the mountain via different routes, but inexperienced hikers should take care because Cape Town is prone to sudden weather changes. The walk up can take a few hours, depending on the route and level of fitness. Route maps can be bought at the cable-car station. It is always best to check the website or call the weatherline to see if the cable car is in operation. Hikers should travel in
groups, as there have been reports of robberies on the trails.
Tickets for the cable car can be booked online via the official website. They are marginally cheaper online and allow travellers to skip the sometimes long queues at the ticket kiosk. Ascending Table Mountain is an absolute must for visitors to Cape Town.
Getting there: Bus to Kloof Nek from Adderley Street and a 1.5km walk up the hill; minibus taxi from the Parade; Riki taxi; or as part of the Cape Town Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour
Address: Tafelberg Road
Website: http://www.tablemountain.net
Castle of Good Hope Cape Town
Opening time: Daily 9am to 4pm.
Admission: R30 (adults), R15 (children and students). Other concessions available.
South Africa's oldest surviving colonial building, the Castle of Good Hope was completed in 1679. It replaced an earlier mud and timber fort built by the first Dutch Governor, Jan van Riebeeck. Situated adjacent to a parking lot and bus station in Buitenkant Street, its walls mark the original boundary of the seashore where the waves washed up against the fortifications. Its outside aspect is somewhat foreboding, but inside are some interesting features and collections that have been restored, offering a good insight into the early days of the Cape, when the castle was the centre of social and economic life. The complex is a pentagonal fortification with a moat and five bastions, each named for one of the titles of the Prince of Orange. The entrance is a good example of 17th-century Dutch Classicism, and a bell, cast in 1679 by Claude Fremy in Amsterdam, still hangs from the original wood beams in the tower above the entrance.
The castle contains a Military Museum depicting the conflicts that arose during the Cape's early settlement, and also houses the William Fehr Collection of decorative arts, including paintings, furniture, and porcelain. Of interest are the dungeons, which bear carvings in the walls by prisoners incarcerated centuries ago. The castle was built for defence, not beauty, and it is a fortress not a palace. Those interested in the history of the Cape will find a visit fascinating.
Address: Buitenkant Street, opposite the Grand Parade
Website: http://www.castleofgoodhope.co.za
South African Museum and Planetarium Cape Town
Opening time: Daily 10am to 5pm (museum).
The imposing South African Museum is dedicated to natural history and the human sciences, and contains a huge variety of fascinating exhibits. Among other things, visitors will encounter entire chunks of caves bearing rock art, and traditional arts and crafts from several African tribes. Astoundingly, the museum houses more than one and a half million specimens of scientific importance, including fossils that are almost 700 million years old. The vastness of the collection means that for every object on display, thousands more are kept in storage. The natural history exhibits are full of mounted mammals, dioramas of prehistoric reptiles, and a collection of whale skeletons, with haunting whale song echoing in the background. Established in 1825, the South African Museum is still very old-fashioned in some ways. Nevertheless, it is well worth a visit for its impressive collection. Alongside the museum is the Planetarium, which has a changing programme of thematic shows
involving the southern constellations. Booking ahead is necessary for Planetarium shows.
These two attractions are based in the lovely Company Gardens of Cape Town, which are also worth exploring.
Address: 25 Queen Victoria Street, Gardens
Website: http://www.iziko.org.za
Greenmarket Square Cape Town
Situated near the main train station in the Central Business District, Greenmarket Square is the perfect spot to observe South Africa's diverse population in all its hues and voices. Once the scene of slave markets, it now accommodates one of the city's most vibrant flea markets, where clothing, jewellery, trinkets, and souvenirs are on sale most days. Tourists and business people rub shoulders in the many sidewalk cafés that surround the busy cobbled square. Visitors should be prepared to haggle for the best prices at the market, and should be aware that touts are prevalent. Rain doesn't generally deter vendors, with most covering their stalls with tarpaulins in bad weather. Stalls generally start clearing up for the day in the late afternoon, though seldom before 3pm. The market does not operate on Sundays. There are many other great attractions in the area, including several art galleries and museums. For instance, the Old Town House lies on the west side of Greenmarket
Square. Dating from the mid -18th century, it is a wonderful example of Cape Dutch architecture and houses the Michaelis collection of Dutch and Flemish landscape paintings.
St George's Cathedral Cape Town
Founded in 1901 and situated on Wale Street, Cape Town's Victorian Gothic style Anglican Cathedral is historically significant for hosting the enthronement of South Africa's first black archbishop, Nobel Peace Prize winner Desmond Tutu. The Cathedral is unique in that it became a political powerhouse in the struggle against Apartheid. Known as 'the people's cathedral', it began openly welcoming people of all races in the 1950s. This was a brave stand in the racially segregated society of the time. In subsequent years, the cathedral became the venue for many protest gatherings and vigils and, on occasion, the building was surrounded by police, water cannons, and barbed wire. Victims of forced removals were even accommodated in the cathedral at times. As far as architectural merit goes, the cathedral does feature some fine Gabriel Loire windows, including a magnificent Rose Window above the south transept. It is an imposing church, well integrated into the community and well
cared for, and the profoundly inspirational legacy of Desmond Tutu is palpable.
Address: Wale Street
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Cape Town
Opening time: Daily 8am to 6pm (April to August); 8am to 7pm (September to March); Conservatory 9am to 5pm
Admission: R60 (adults), R15 (children 6-18). Concessions available. Concert fees are applicable on Sunday afternoons during the Summer Sunset Concert series
The magnificent Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens lie just south of the city centre and cover a huge expanse of the rugged southwestern slopes of the Table Mountain Range. Kirstenbosch was bequeathed to the nation by mining magnate Cecil Rhodes in 1895, and today contains a nursery, a research unit, a botanical library and more than 22,000 plants. Numerous paths meander through the gardens, including a Braille route for the blind. Nature lovers should note that the walks are full of lush shrubs and fynbos, the Cape's indigenous floral heritage. The gardens are indeed a natural wonderland, where visitors will find lots of space for picnics. Several incredible hikes can be started from the gardens, including the formidable Skeleton Gorge, and Nursery Ravine, which wind steeply up the mountain and generally take between four and six hours. If these difficult hikes sound a little frightening, some far gentler and shorter trails wind through the gardens. Visitors will find
a tea room, two restaurants, and a coffee bar on site.
In summertime, the delightful setting becomes the venue for Sunday evening open-air concerts, when picnickers relax on the lawns, sipping wine, and enjoying the sunset entertainment. There are also outdoor movie screenings in summer.
Cape Town has some truly gorgeous beaches, but the most glamorous are on the Atlantic Ocean, where the water is unbelievably cold. Even the locals tend to keep their swims short. The most popular choices include Camps Bay Beach. Locals and tourists pack its long, wide stretch of silver sand and enjoy the trendy bars and restaurants nearby. Another favourite is Clifton, where four beaches are situated beneath the exclusive houses and apartments set into the cliff. The beaches are named First, Second, Third and Fourth Beach. First Beach is the largest and most popular among families, while Second Beach is preferred by the hip crowd. Third and Fourth Beach are usually frequented by locals. The small suburb of Llandudno lies 15 minutes south of Camps Bay, and is home to one of the most scenic beaches in South Africa. It's popular for sundowners on the rocks or long days in the sun.
Despite its popularity, Llandudno is seldom too crowded. This is partly because there are no bars or restaurants there. The nearest is in Hout Bay, which is another 10 minutes south. Hout Bay's long beach is popular with families and walkers but is not as stunning as its neighbours. False Bay is also blessed with lovely beaches and these tend to be more family-friendly and less trendy. The most popular beach for beginner surfers in Cape Town is Muizenberg, which has plenty of surf schools. The Muizenberg and Fish Hoek beaches of False Bay are also wonderful for swimming, as the water in False Bay is much warmer than on the Atlantic side. For long walks and horse riding, the lovely Noordhoek beach is ideal.
To see Cape Town's penguin colony, tourists should visit the picturesque Boulders Beach in Simonstown, where the loveable birds suntan and swim. Sharks are a problem in Cape Town, particularly in False Bay, and many beaches have shark spotters on duty. Visitors should pay close attention to the flags on the beach, as they signal whether it is safe to swim. A siren will go off to warn swimmers in the water if a shark is spotted nearby.
Robben Island Cape Town
Opening time: Boats leave roughly every two hours between 9am and 3pm (weather dependent).
Admission: Tours are R300 (adults), R160 (children under 18), which includes the return boat trip across Table Bay.
Robben Island is seven miles (11km) from Cape Town, and is easily seen from the shore. For nearly 400 years, this tiny rocky island was utilised as a place of banishment, exile, isolation, and imprisonment for numerous categories of people ostracised by society, ranging from political protesters to lepers. During the years of Apartheid, Robben Island became synonymous with institutional brutality as numerous freedom fighters, including the island's most famous resident, Nelson Mandela, were imprisoned here for more than a quarter of a century. Robben Island is now a museum, symbolising the liberation and triumph of the human spirit. Regular island tours are conducted and last for around three and a half hours. The tours are guided by former prisoners and include a visit to the maximum-security prison on the island, where an estimated 3,000 freedom fighters were incarcerated between 1962 and 1991. The island is also interesting in other ways. For instance, it is a magnet for
shipwrecks, with at least 68 recorded cases across its rocky coastline.
The boat trip across the bay can be really fun in itself, and some wonderful views of the city and Table Mountain are gained from the ferry ride and the island itself.
Getting there: Boat from the Nelson Mandela Robben Island Gateway in the clock tower precinct at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town. Book in advance
Website: http://www.robben-island.org.za
District Six Museum Cape Town
Opening time: 9am to 4pm Monday to Saturday. Sundays by appointment only.
Admission: R30 (adults), R5 (children).
Until the 1960s, District Six was a vibrant district of Cape Town located close to the city centre and the harbour. The community was originally established as a mix of freed slaves, merchants, artisans and immigrants, and developed a unique multiracial character. In 1966, the government declared District Six a 'whites only' area under the Group Areas Act and over 60,000 residents were forcibly moved to the outlying Cape Flats, a barren area several kilometres away, while most of their homes were flattened by bulldozers. Communities and families were uprooted and torn apart, and this moving museum serves to safeguard the memories and the spirit that was District Six. The venue was originally established as a place where ex-residents could meet and support one another, but is now a fascinating little museum. It houses an impressive collection of old materials, including photographs and relics such as street signs, many of which were donated by former residents.
The museum also offers a guided tour of the area led by an ex-resident. It is a poignant way to learn about District Six as it used to be. These tours must be booked in advance via the official website listed below. It is also possible to wander into the museum off the street and take a self-guided tour.
Address: 25A Buitenkant Street
Telephone: 021 466 7200
Website: http://www.districtsix.co.za
Chapman's Peak Cape Town
Opening time: Open 24 hours; the road closes occasionally due to heavy rainfall, or rockfalls
Admission: Chapman's Peak Drive is operated as a toll-road. Light motor vehicles cost about ZAR 45.
Chapman's Peak Drive is one of the most spectacular coastal roads in South Africa and the world. It links the seaside community of Hout Bay to the Noordhoek Valley along the Atlantic Coast, and offers breath-taking views from along the narrow, winding road blasted into the cliffs. Started in 1915, the six-mile (9km) route took about seven years to complete and was built as a shorter, alternative route between Cape Town central and the South Peninsula. Many visitors use this scenic route to reach Cape Point Nature Reserve, situated at the tip of the Peninsula. But for many Capetonians, it simply comprises a breathtakingly beautiful commute to work. There are a number of gorgeous picnic sites and viewpoints along the route and it is very popular with cyclists. Chapman's Peak Drive is also the ideal vantage point for whale watching, the peak whale season being mid-August to mid-November. Hiking up Chapman's Peak and through Silvermine Nature Reserve and the Cape Peninsula
National Park offers spectacular views over the South Peninsula.
With sheer cliffs below, soaring mountains above, and the ocean stretching to the horizon, this dramatic stretch of road is a must-see for tourists in Cape Town.
Website: http://www.chapmanspeakdrive.co.za
Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront Cape Town
This working harbour, historical site, and shopping development has become one of Cape Town's most visited tourist attractions. The Waterfront offers everything from shopping malls and crafts markets, to live music and a variety of festivals throughout the year. It's also home to more than 70 eateries, ranging from pubs and fast food outlets to five star restaurants. Those who fall in love with the Waterfront will be glad to know that there are several luxury hotels in the area. What's more, travellers can stroll down to the harbour to gaze upon the numerous boats and ships upon the waves. Those who want to experience the thrill of sailing out of the harbour into the open ocean can choose from a variety of boat trips and harbour cruises. Helicopter charters leave from the waterfront as well. These include sunset booze cruises, whale-watching trips, and even a pirate galley that throws themed outings. The Two Oceans Aquarium is an impressive and celebrated institution and
houses an impressive array of life from the oceans surrounding the Cape Coast.
The aquarium is a must for those travelling in Cape Town with kids, but adults will also find themselves entertained. The V & A Waterfront is situated in a beautiful and central location, all the while under the watchful guard of the iconic Table Mountain.
Getting there: MyCiti buses service the V & A Waterfront.
Website: http://www.waterfront.co.za
Simonstown and Boulders Beach Cape Town
Simonstown is South Africa's principal naval base and lies about 25 miles (40km) from the city centre. The quaint suburb was built around a naval dockyard, and visitors will enjoy its well-preserved Victorian buildings, museums, sidewalk cafés, and local heroes. One such hero was a dog called 'Just Nuisance', who joined the British navy, becoming their mascot, when Simonstown was a British base. A statue of the beloved Great Dane can still be seen on the beachfront. A short distance from the town is Boulders Beach, famous for its protected colony of African Penguins. People watch the animals while on the beach as well as from viewing platforms. The penguins are remarkably tame, meaning visitors can get very close to take photographs, even though they shouldn't try to touch the animals. The loveable birds continue to swim and frolic beneath the waves, totally unperturbed. The beach is truly beautiful at Boulders, with turquoise water and, as the name suggests, picturesque
rock formations. It's worth a visit in any season just to see the penguins, and kids will love it.
Cape Point Cape Town
Most Cape Town visitors are keen to make the short, 40 mile (65km) daytrip from the city centre to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. The land at first appears bleak, but visitors will soon discover a region rich in floral diversity. They will also stand atop the towering promontory at the most southerly point of the Cape Peninsula. Those who wish to venture to the most southerly point of Africa will have to journey further to Cape Agulhas. Visitors can reach the viewpoint and lighthouse via a funicular, and watch thundering waves crash at the base of the cliffs below. Bird lovers and botany enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the reserve itself. There are a number of beautiful walking trails, including the shipwreck trail, which takes visitors to a few of the 26 recorded shipwrecks around Cape Point. There are also some great beaches and dive sites. The restaurant at Cape Point has a terrace offering spectacular views.
Website: http://www.capepoint.co.za
Bayworld Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth's most popular attraction consists of a complex on the beachfront that includes the Oceanarium, a museum, and a snake park. The Bayworld Oceanarium features an aquarium tank where visitors can watch a vast array of marine life through glass portholes as they glide by. This includes sharks, turtles, and rays. The penguins and seals are particularly entertaining while the snake park contains an impressive variety of indigenous reptiles in natural-looking enclosures. The PE Museum focuses on cultural and natural history with a wide variety of exhibits, from models of sailing ships and period costumes to giant replicas of dinosaurs that roamed the area in prehistoric times. It is the third-oldest museum in the country. Port Elizabeth has a lovely beachfront area, which is the main draw for visitors. But the city is generally just a stop-over point for tourists on their way to one of the nearby game reserves. If tourists are travelling through Port Elizabeth with
kids and have a bit of time to spare, visiting Bayworld is a great option.
Address: Beach Road, Humewood
Website: http://www.bayworld.co.za
Market Square Port Elizabeth
Port Elizabeth's architectural heritage can be traced by taking a walk around the city's central Market Square, which features several historic buildings. The centrepiece of the square is the aesthetically pleasing City Hall, dating from 1858 and topped with an attractive clock tower. Also in the square is a replica of the Diaz Cross that commemorates the first European to set foot in Algoa Bay in 1488, when Portuguese explorer Bartholomew Diaz stopped over on his way east. Alongside the city hall is the Prester John Memorial, which is dedicated to the Portuguese explorers who landed in South Africa. On the northwest flank of the square is the city's public library. Built in 1835, it was originally used as a courthouse. The beautiful building is regarded as an excellent example of Victorian Gothic architecture and is interesting in that its façade was manufactured in England and shipped to Port Elizabeth to be recreated piece by piece. In front of the library stands a
marble statue of Queen Victoria, which was unveiled in 1903.
Slightly downhill from the square, at the entrance to the harbour, stands the Campanile, containing one of the biggest carillons of bells (23) in the country. Visitors can climb 204 steps to enjoy the view from the top of this monument, which commemorates the landing of the 1820 settlers.
St George's Park Port Elizabeth
St George's Park has been a recreational centre for the city of Port Elizabeth for more than 150 years, boasting well-landscaped gardens covering 73 hectares. On site is the world famous Port Elizabeth Cricket Club, the second oldest cricket club in South Africa and the scene of many an exciting test match series, and the oldest bowling green in the country, established in 1884. The historic sporting venue was also the site of South Africa's first rugby test match. The love of cricket was brought to Port Elizabeth by British settlers and local myths tell of one of the settlers wading through the waters of Algoa Bay towards his new homeland with his cricket bat held safely above his head to keep it dry. The park also features the 1882 Edwardian Pearson Conservatory: a national monument filled with orchids, water lilies, and other exotic plants. Apart from being good for strolls and picnics, to say nothing of sporting events, the park hosts a vibrant arts and crafts fair
every second Sunday of the month.
The other major park in Port Elizabeth is Settler's Park. It's set in the Baakens River valley, which boasts indigenous flora and fauna and offers a delightful stroll along the riverbank.
Website: http://www.stgeorgespark.nmmu.ac.za
Addo Elephant Park Port Elizabeth
Addo Elephant Park is the most popular game reserve in the Port Elizabeth area, and is a 45-minute drive from the city. The park is situated in the ruggedly beautiful Eastern Cape region, and offers an authentic safari experience. Addo was founded in 1931 to save the area's remaining 11 indigenous elephants, and has been a remarkable success since then. It is now the third largest game reserve in South Africa, and one of the most popular with tourists and locals. The elephants are drawn to watering holes at certain times and sightings are virtually guaranteed all year round. There are other animals in the park too, including lion, leopard, black rhino, buffalo, zebra, warthog, hyena, and several types of buck. Guided game drives are available or visitors can do a self-drive tour using the map issued at the entrance. The roads are in good condition.
A variety of accommodation is available and there is a restaurant and picnic site. Horse riding and walking safaris are also available. Addo is a great destination year-round but the best months for game viewing are April and May, when it is dry and warm.
Website: http://www.sanparks.org/parks/addo
Shamwari Game Reserve Port Elizabeth
The multi-award winning private game reserve of Shamwari lies less than an hour's drive from Port Elizabeth. It is responsible for re-introducing numerous species into the Eastern Cape plains, including all of the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo). The reserve offers phenomenal luxury accommodation, but also hosts visitors on day trips from the city. Day tours include a visit to an art and culture village to sample Xhosa culture and traditionally brewed beer, and a trip to one of the Born Free centres for abused animals. There are two Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries in Shamwari, where visitors can learn about how wildlife is abused in captivity and can see some of the rescued animals. The Ian Player Rhino Awareness Centre opened in 2012, and is available to educate guests about the terrible epidemic of rhino poaching in South Africa. At the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, guests can usually meet whatever animals are currently being cared for.
Those lucky enough to stay in one of the luxury game lodges can enjoy game drives, game walks, spa treatments and gorgeous restaurants. Groups of between six and 10 people will be assigned a personal game ranger by the lodges and daily programmes will be designed to suit guests.
Website: http://www.shamwari.com
Grahamstown Port Elizabeth
The historic settler town of Grahamstown lies 78 miles (125km) northeast of Port Elizabeth. Many visitors become acquainted with its 1820 Settlers' National Monument. Sitting atop Gunfire Hill, the arts and theatre complex is home to the town's internationally recognised Arts Festival. Grahamstown was founded in 1812 as a garrison to drive the Xhosa people eastwards across the Fish River frontier, giving rise to a century of frontier war. The town has retained an English colonial flavour, and is home to the renowned Rhodes University and some top private boarding schools. Visitors will find several museums, including the JLB Smith Institute of Ichthyology, where two stuffed specimens of the coelacanth are on display. The town also boasts the only Victorian camera obscura in the southern hemisphere. Grahamstown is a quaint and picturesque town with a rich history and a famously active student population, making it a wonderful travel base in the ruggedly beautiful 'frontier
country' of the Eastern Cape.
The Arts Festival is the highlight of Grahamstown annual calendar, when the little town comes alive with the best theatre, music, and dance that South Africa has to offer. Sprawling craft markets take over the streets and fields as well.
Website: http://www.grahamstown.co.za
Jeffrey's Bay Port Elizabeth
Known colloquially as J-Bay, the surfing paradise of Jeffrey's Bay is a short drive west of Port Elizabeth. This determinedly laid-back seaside town is most famous for Supertubes, one of the best right-hand point breaks in the world. Many consider it South Africa's perfect wave. The town lives and breathes surfing and has several glorious surf spots that are gentler and more accommodating than the celebrated Supertubes. The waters of J-Bay are also frequented by dolphins, seals, and whales, and surfers are often lucky enough to mingle with these sea creatures. J-Bay has many surf stores, including factory outlets selling cheap, branded clothes, and surf gear. The long stretches of picturesque sandy beach surrounding the town and are renowned for their shells and bright orange aloes. Rivers and nature reserves border the town on both sides. The region has a wide range of accommodation, including luxury game farms just out of town and cheap backpackers for budget travellers.
The town itself is not particularly attractive but the natural setting more than compensates.
Although J-Bay is a famously friendly place, surfers should note that localism can be a problem in the water. Visitors should be friendly and respectful with local surfers, and should abide by proper surfing etiquette.
Website: http://www.jeffreysbaytourism.org
Francis Farewell Square Durban
This historic square in the middle of Durban is the spot where the city originated as a tiny settlement of itinerant traders and hunters in the early 19th century. It is named for Henry Francis Flynn, one of the prominent inhabitants of the time. Around the square are some interesting sights, particularly the 1910 City Hall on the south side, which is an exact replica of the City Hall of Belfast, Ireland. On the first floor of the City Hall is the Natural Science Museum, which has an interesting insect section and an array of stuffed animals that delight children despite being somewhat old-fashioned. On the second floor is the renowned Durban Art Gallery. Parents may want to explore the art gallery as their kids enjoy the Natural History Museum. Various musical, song, and dance performances are held on the City Hall steps every Wednesday, at about 1pm. Alongside the City Hall is Durban's local history museum, which is housed in the Old Court House: the first public building
ever erected in Durban (1866).
The Square is easily accessible by bus or taxi, and is a great place to take photos. Visitor should be careful with expensive cameras, though, and should watch their belongings, as the city centre is rife with pickpockets.
uShaka Marine World Durban
uShaka Marine World is the largest marine theme park in Africa. The park is tastefully themed with African imagery and has five zones offering entertainment, dining, shops, water slides, and access to uShaka Beach. Wet 'n Wild contains a number of water thrills, ranging from heart-stopping, adrenalin-pumping rides to lazy activities for the less adventurous. There is an aquarium with thousands of fish, reptiles, and aquatic mammals on display; a dolphinarium that performs regular musical shows; a penguin rookery; and underwater activities like snorkelling and the 'shark walk'. The Village Walk features the Dangerous Creatures exhibit, which includes spiders, snakes, frogs, scorpions, and other poisonous creatures. Rayz Kids World gives children a place to burn off energy with massive jungle gyms and climbing structures, while Moyo Restaurant is a wonderful option for adults. uShaka is in South Beach, so visitors can walk there along the beach, or take a bus or taxi. The
area can be dangerous, but once inside, the park security is good and it's perfectly safe. Lockers can be rented to keep belongings safe.
Address: 1 Bell Street
Website: http://www.ushakamarineworld.co.za
KwaMuhle Museum Durban
The KwaMuhle Museum focuses on the history of race laws in KwaZulu-Natal, showing the experiences of local people through multimedia presentations. It is housed in a building that was once the Department of Native Affairs, from which the infamous labour system was administrated. KwaMuhle means 'place of the good one' in honour of a white man who ran the department, but did his best to fight the system from within. This museum provides a fascinating and very personal look at the diverse and difficult cultural history of the region. But it is ultimately an old-fashioned museum which doesn't have much to offer small kids or those who demand a state-of-the-art interactive museum experience. The content is fascinating, and deeply moving, but the exhibitions are simple and designed for those genuinely interested in the history and willing to read the text.
Guides are available but the museum is well laid-out for independent exploration. The KwaMuhle is near the centre of Durban, close to several bus and taxi routes, and is a worthwhile stop on the city's tourist circuit.
Address: 130 Ordinance Road
Juma Masjid Mosque Durban
Construction of the Juma Masjid Mosque began in 1881, with renovations continuing until 1943. It is KwaZulu-Natal's first mosque, as well as one of the oldest and largest mosques in the Southern Hemisphere. Travellers will note that its golden-domed minarets dominate the central Indian district of downtown Durban, and that its muezzin can be heard from many parts of the city as it calls the faithful to prayer. Its architecture is a mix of classic Mughal Indian and colonial South African features, and there is space inside for up to 5,000 worshippers. Visitors are welcome on weekdays and Saturdays but the mosque is closed on Sundays. The building's flat roof is used as a prayer site during festivals but doubles as a playground for girls from the neighbouring school during the day. A bustling neighbourhood surrounds the mosque. Travellers should stop at one of the area's takeaway curry restaurants, where they should try 'bunny chow'. The dish features a hollowed-out loaf of
bread filled with curry, and it is widely associated with Durban.
The busy and exotic Victoria Street Market is another worthwhile diversion, as are the many small shops that sell fabric, saris, jewellery and more. The area is easily accessible by bus or taxi, but visitors should be wary of pickpockets and travel in groups.
Address: Grey Street
Durban Botanic Gardens Durban
Established in 1849, Durban's Botanical Gardens are the oldest surviving botanic garden on the African continent, and the city's oldest natural attraction. Located on Sydenham Hill Road (west of the Greyville Race Track), the gardens provide a relaxing spot to stroll among huge indigenous and exotic trees, and a stunning orchid house display. The gardens are also abuzz with birdlife and boast a lovely charity tea garden. Visitors can go for a picnic under the trees or by the pond, but should leave the sports equipment behind as frisbee and ball games are not allowed. The gardens are a popular spot for wedding photos on Saturdays, and once a month they host a Sunday afternoon concert that attracts thousands of Durbanites. Areas within the extensive grounds include a lake and reservoir, the Herb Garden, Palm Walk, Fern Dell, Amphitheatre, Japanese Garden, and much more. There are plenty of grassy areas for picnics and benches for taking a rest. The gardens are in a nice area
of Durban to walk about in and are several bus routes go past. There is no entrance fee, but if visitors drive they are expected to tip the car guard about ZAR 5 for watching their vehicle.
Address: 70 St Thomas Road
Website: http://www.durbanbotanicgardens.org.za
The BAT Centre Durban
The BAT Centre is a haven for artists and musicians. Located on the Victoria Embankment beside the Durban harbour, its name is an acronym for Bartle Arts Trust, the organisation that helped found the centre. BATs features a studio where traditional artists can work; a hall that hosts concerts, conventions and festivals; exhibition galleries; a music store and drum shop where handcrafted wooden drums are made; and a restaurant serving authentic African dishes from all over the continent. There are stunning views of the harbour from the restaurant deck, which hosts live jazz music on Sundays. Nearby is the Maritime Museum, which details the history of the harbour and houses a restored tugboat and other interesting exhibits. The area is well worth a visit for tourists and is popular with locals too. The BAT Centre is close to bus and taxi routes, and the area should be safe to stroll around during the day. Travellers visiting at night should take a taxi or drive.
Travellers should check what exhibitions and live shows are on before visiting the BAT Centre, as things can be rather sporadic.
Address: SAS Inkonkoni Building, 45 Maritime Place, Small Craft Harbour, Victoria Embankment
Website: http://www.batcentre.co.za
Zululand Battlefields Durban
Zululand is the ancestral home of the Zulu people. It is the site of many bloody battles between the British, the Zulus and the Afrikaners during the 19th century, and is best explored as a self-drive adventure. That said, many tours are available from Durban. Almost every town in this part of northern KwaZulu-Natal has a story to tell or an event to commemorate. Tourism offices throughout the region provide maps and guides to help visitors make the most of the culture, history, scenery and wildlife. The landscape varies from plains and rolling hills, to river valleys and lush forests, and it once encompassed the legendary Shake Zulu's kingdom. He clashed with the British and Afrikaners in many epic battles. Eshowe is the Zulu nation's centre. King Shake was born close to the small town, and it was the site of a 10-week siege during the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Ladysmith and Dundee are other notable towns. The historic battles of Rourke's Drift, Blood River and Isandlwana
took place near them.
Some of the battlefields include museums or memorials, while others are just open landscapes where visitors can stroll with guide books and engage their own imaginations.
Website: http://www.battlefields.kzn.org.za
iSimangaliso / St Lucia Wetland Park Durban
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is the largest and most exciting in a string of game parks and nature reserves in KwaZulu-Natal's far north. Many still know it by its former name, St Lucia Wetland Park. Dominated by the fascinating St Lucia estuary and lake system, the park includes eight distinct ecosystems, which vary from dry thorn scrub to tropical forest. Some of the world's highest dunes border them. The park also encloses three major lake systems, beautiful beaches, tropical reefs, Africa's largest estuarine system, and most of South Africa's remaining swamp forests. Big-Five game viewing is on offer too. Visitors should note that this is the only place in the world where they will see hippos, crocodiles and sharks co-habiting the same lagoon. There are comfortable rest camps and some very picturesque campsites in the park. The Wetland Park was declared South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in recognition of its natural beauty, unusual ecosystems, and the
700-year-old fishing traditions of local inhabitants.
As Nelson Mandela said, it must be the only place on earth where the oldest land mammal (the rhinoceros) and the world's biggest terrestrial mammal (the elephant) share an ecosystem with the world's oldest existing fish (the coelacanth) and the world's biggest marine mammal (the whale).
Website: isimangaliso.com
Midlands Meander Durban
The popular Midlands Meander arts and crafts route winds through the Midlands, along the R103 road. It takes in a plethora of participating attractions dotted across the countryside, ranging from herb farms to antique shops. The Meander covers about 50 miles (80km) between the towns of Pietermaritzburg and Mooi River, and showcases the lovely Midlands landscapes as much as anything else. A really fun and artistic way to explore this beautiful region, the Midlands Meander is a must for those who enjoy quaint tea houses and creativity. The Meander includes adventure activities, historic landmarks, restaurants and eateries, conference and wedding facilities and the shops and studios of something like 150 talented local artists and craftsmen. For those less crafty and more active, horse riding, hiking, tubing, cycling, swimming, quad biking, and fishing can be enjoyed along the route. Northwest of Durban in the Midlands of KwaZulu-Natal is the Midmar Public Resort Nature
Reserve, which offers accommodation, picnic sites and recreational opportunities around the huge Midmar Dam.
This impressive body of water is one of the well-known landmarks along the Midlands Meander, and attracts huge crowds once a year for the Midmar Mile. The event is one of the world's largest open water swims, and sees Midmar is overrun with swimmers. The race's festive atmosphere is also worth experiencing.
Website: http://www.midlandsmeander.co.za
Drakensberg Mountains Durban
The jagged peaks of the Drakensberg (Dragon Mountains) tower over KwaZulu Natal's eastern border, providing a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The Drakensberg is the highest mountain range in southern Africa and abounds with hiking trails, climbing routes, 4x4 trails, pony treks and adventure pursuits, all accessible from numerous resorts in the lower reaches. Some of the more popular resorts are Champagne Castle, Cathkin Peak, and Cathedral Peak, while Giant's Castle and its game reserve are famed for the more than 500 rock paintings left behind by the San people on cave walls. Eagles soar around the peaks in the Royal Natal National Park in the north, where the dramatic scenery includes the Amphitheatre, a five-mile long (8km) curved basalt wall. The region is largely untamed and criss-crossed by lengths of rugged dirt roads. The only road that breaches the mountain range and crosses the border to Lesotho is the hair-raising Sani Pass, which is topped by the highest pub
in Africa.
Adventure activities available in this stunningly beautiful area include sheer rock or ice-climbing, abseiling, and white -water rafting. It is also possible to take helicopter rides to see the dramatic scenery from above.
Website: http://www.drakensberg.kzn.org.za
Gold Reef City Johannesburg
This huge entertainment complex is essentially a theme park full of thrill rides, but was designed to recreate Victorian Johannesburg during the gold-rush era. Situated five miles (8km) south of the city centre via the M1 motorway, the park was built around the No.14 Crown mineshaft that began operations in 1887 and closed in 1971. During its production years, 1,400 tons of gold came out of the shaft. Visitors can now descend into the old mine shaft to experience life at the rock face, and watch gold being poured and minted. Gold Reef City also houses a number of museums, and offers performances by traditional gumboot dancers and the like. Youngsters particularly enjoy rides like the Anaconda roller coaster and Thunder Mountain River Rapids. The range of rides ensures that there is plenty for all age groups and a good mixture of the mellow and adrenalin-pumping. There are also plenty of restaurants, bars, a massive casino, and a Victorian hotel for those wanting to stay the
night.
Gold Reef City is a must for families spending a bit of time in Johannesburg and is also located conveniently close to the Apartheid Museum, creating the ultimate touristic marriage of hard-hitting history and theme-park fun.
Website: http://www.goldreefcity.co.za
Newtown Cultural Precinct Johannesburg
Located in the city centre, this complex of buildings has been upgraded and restored as part of the city fathers' urban renewal policy and includes several attractions. For instance, the Market Theatre and Museum Africa are housed in a Victorian building in Bree Street - originally Johannesburg's fresh produce market. The Museum of Africa is particularly worth a visit, as its exhibits tell the city's story from its beginnings to the present day. The display includes an interesting section about the Treason Trial of the 1950s, in which Nelson Mandela and other activists were accused of plotting against the state. The same building houses a photography museum and the Museum of South African Rock Art. At its eastern end is the Market Theatre, famed for being the venue for many protest theatre productions in the apartheid era. Also in the area is the South African Breweries Centre, which offers a tour detailing brewing history through some reconstructed gold-rush pubs and
shebeens (township bars). Along Jeppe Street is the Oriental Plaza, the commercial centre for the Indian community.
Newtown is also renowned for its nightlife, with wonderful restaurants, jazz establishments, and clubs that stay open until the early hours.
Website: http://www.newtown.co.za
Johannesburg Zoo Johannesburg
The Johannesburg Zoo is a favourite place for locals to take a stroll. Its numerous enclosures house more than 320 species of animal, including polar bears that can be viewed underwater in their pool. Of course, the Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo) are all in residence, while other highlights include lemurs, gorillas, caracals, Siberian tigers, hippos, orangutans, brown bears, and cheetahs. The zoo's various monkeys are also very entertaining. Visitors will appreciate the large collection of birdlife, and parents will enjoy treating their kids to the farmyard section's activities. A tractor tram does circuits of the zoo for those who don't fancy walking. Travellers should check the official website below for details on feeding times. The penguins and seals are particularly active during feeds. The zoo is dedicated to conservation and rehabilitation and conducts some breeding programmes. It also hosts some interesting exhibits and events. The Museum of
Military History on the zoo's eastern edge has some interesting exhibits like tanks, fighter aircraft, and submarines. Visitors will find many restaurants and food stalls for refreshments.
Address: Jan Smuts Avenue, main public entrance on Upper Park Drive, Parkview
Website: http://www.jhbzoo.org.za
Warmbaths Johannesburg
The area known as Springbok Flats is part of the Great Rift Valley and lies on the national road north from Johannesburg. Bela-Bela town is located on the area's edge. Still commonly known as Warmbaths (the name officially changed in 2002), it is famous for its hot mineral springs. The springs yield about 20,000 litres of water every hour, all of which is enriched with sodium chloride, calcium carbonate, and other minerals. The town is a popular spa and holiday resort. The main resort, Warmbaths, has a large indoor pool with underwater jets, outdoor hot and cold swimming pools, jacuzzis, a wave pool, and several water slides. The resort also includes facilities for waterskiing, go-karting, quad biking, pedal boating, miniature golf, archery, tennis, squash, and volleyball, as well as several shops and restaurants. Accommodation is varied but the resort is open to day visitors as well, who can enter anytime between 7am and 5pm daily.
Lost City Johannesburg
Situated in the Bojanala region of the North West Province, the 'Las Vegas of South Africa' is one of the largest entertainment centres for adults in the world. Visitors can look forward to casinos, golf courses, live shows, and the architectural wonder of the Lost City. The vast resort complex is one of South Africa's top attractions for gambling, entertainment, and opulence. Guests will find a luxurious palace at its centre, where frescoes, palm fronds, mosaics and elephant tusks complement the resort's life-sized model animals. Lakes, forests, and a tropical beach surround the Lost City. Along with a variety of water sports, guests can enjoy The Valley of the Waves, which is the most advanced waterpark in the country. Among other things, it has a wave machine capable of generating seven-foot (2m) waves. The waterpark's numerous slides and wonderful Lazy River are fabulous fun for the whole family. Buying a day pass for the Lost City waterpark allows visitors to explore
the extensive grounds and access the casino.
There are a number of Sun International hotels on the property and the resort complex also borders on the Pilanesberg National Park. Home to the Big Five, it is a popular game-viewing destination.
Website: http://www.suninternational.com
Lowveld National Botanical Garden Mpumalanga
Covering 393 acres (159 hectares) on the banks of the Crocodile River at Nelspruit, the Lowveld National Botanical Garden has the largest collection of cycads in the world and the biggest assortment of indigenous trees in South Africa. The garden has 600 plant and 245 bird species occurring naturally within its borders, but about 2,000 more plant species have been added to this collection. The gardens are traversed by two big rivers, the Crocodile and the Nels, which converge in the garden and form some spectacular waterfalls, which can be viewed from observation platforms. Highlights of the gardens include the aerial boardwalk and suspension bridge through the African Rain Forest section, and a lovely two-hour walking trail that meanders along the Crocodile River banks and passes three waterfalls. There is a restaurant, a tea garden, and a concert stage in the grounds. Approximately 70 percent of the gardens are accessible to wheelchairs.
Spending a few hours strolling and picnicking in the gardens is a great way to enjoy the natural bounty of the region, but visitors should note that ball games and pets are not allowed.
Address: Off White River Road
Website: http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/lowveld
Pilgrim's Rest Mpumalanga
Had it not been for its picturesque setting, Pilgrim's Rest would probably be a ghost town. It is, however, a popular tourist destination, existing today for little other purpose than to entertain and inform visitors about its colourful heyday. It all began in 1873, when a Scottish miner, Alex 'Wheelbarrow' Patterson, discovered gold at Pilgrim's Creek. Before long, fortune seekers had flocked to the little valley, and the town of Pilgrim's Rest was born. Mining continued for decades, but started to dry up in the 1940s, the final mine closing in 1972. The entire town has now been declared a national monument and many of its corrugated iron buildings have been restored. These now exist as living museums, and some as souvenir shops. All development is carefully monitored to ensure the place remains authentic and loses none of its charm. There is an Information Centre on the Main Road where visitors can learn the history of the town before exploring it.
Pilgrim's Rest is part of the scenic Panorama Route, north of Nelspruit. Walking into the town is like stepping back in time and it has been used for a number of film shoots in South Africa. Additionally, there are some great pubs and restaurants if visitors feel peckish.
Website: http://www.pilgrims-rest.co.za
Blyde River Canyon Mpumalanga
The spectacular vista of the Blyde River Canyon is part of the scenically breath-taking Panorama Route, where sheer cliffs drop into a bush-covered valley. It's worth covering the route as a self-drive trip from Nelspruit, or on a bus tour. Other sights on the route include a trio of green-clad peaks set in the canyon called the Three Rondavels, and the Bourke's Luck Potholes. The latter are huge holes in the mountainside formed by grinding sand. The Blyde River Canyon is the biggest green canyon in the world, and the third largest canyon on earth. Only the USA's Grand Canyon and the Fish River Canyon in Namibia are bigger. The river itself offers some challenging white-water rafting, and one of the best ways to experience the canyon is to paddle the river. A five-day hiking trail winds along the canyon, through the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve. It is one of the most rewarding walking trails in the country, if not the world. Visitors can also enjoy shorter walking
trails, game safaris, horse-riding trails, mountain-biking trips, and abseiling.
All of these activities are offered by the nature reserve. Lastly, it's worth mentioning that there is a variety of accommodation in the reserve.
Tsitsikamma National Park Garden Route
Tsitsikamma is a word of the indigenous Khoi-San people meaning 'place of many waters'. It accurately describes the beautiful 50-mile (80km) stretch of coastline that makes up the Tsitsikamma National Park. The park is Africa's oldest and largest marine reserve, and contains many attractions, including a giant Outeniqua yellowwood tree that is hundreds of years old. The region is criss-crossed by hiking trails, including the world-renowned Otter Trail (a five-day hike), which starts at Storm's River and runs along 25 miles (41km) of spectacular coastline to Nature's Valley. A number of private operators offer numerous adventure activities in the area, such as black-water rafting and abseiling, mountain bike tours and fishing trips. A particularly exciting diversion is to undertake a canopy tour of the forest, gliding across the treetops on steel cables strung between platforms. The most popular bases for exploring the area are Wilderness, Knysna, and the aforementioned
Nature's Valley. All are charming coastal towns that offer comfortable campsites and luxury lodges. Tsitsikamma National Park serves as the highlight of South Africa's famous Garden Route.
The Bo-Kaap (old Malay Quarter) was declared an exclusive residential area for the Muslim Cape Malays under the apartheid era's Group Areas Act of 1950, forcing people of other religions and ethnicity to leave. The term 'Cape Malay' was originally used to describe the slaves from Malaysia, Indonesia, and various African countries who were imported to the Cape of Good Hope by the Dutch during the 16th and 17th centuries (rather than just to describe Malaysian slaves). Today, the area is still closely associated with the Muslim community and has a distinct and vibrant character. The houses have been restored and colourfully painted. The steep cobbled streets, mosques, minarets, and blend of Cape Dutch and Edwardian architecture also contribute to making it one of the city's most interesting cultural and historical areas. The Bo-Kaap Museum on Wale Street documents the history of the Cape Malays and is worth a visit for those wanting a more in-depth understanding of the
area.
There are also some fun and interesting walking tours available. The Bo-Kaap is a great favourite with photographers and its charm ensures that it is the frequent subject of Cape Town postcards.
Address: Museum: 71 Wale Street, Bo-Kaap, Cape Town
Spier is one of South Africa's most famous and most popular wine estates. Internationally renowned as cultural resort, it offers luxurious accommodation, conference facilities, shopping, fine dining, and a variety of recreational activities, including golf, horse riding, picnics, and a cheetah park. Travellers can visit Eagle Encounters, where they can get up close to some amazing birds of prey. An outdoor amphitheatre traditionally presents a variety of music, theatre, and dance during the Spier Summer Arts Season, seeking to promote, showcase and develop emerging South African talent. Situated in the heart of the Stellenbosch winelands region, Spier also boasts world-class wines in what is the oldest working cellar in South Africa. If that is not enough, Spier claims to have one of the most extensive collections of contemporary art in the country as well. Together with its other facilities, this is one of the most unique developments in the wine world.
Spier makes a great base for those wanting to explore the region, with a number of other wonderful wine estates nearby. It is also extremely pleasant to just visit for some wine tasting or a picnic in the lovely grounds.
Address: R310 Lynedoch Road
Website: http://www.spier.co.za
Huguenot Monument and Museum Cape Winelands
The historic Huguenot Monument was erected in 1945 and is a major tourist attraction in the Franschhoek Valley. It commemorates and honours the French Huguenots who arrived in South Africa in 1688 after fleeing brutal persecution in their home country. The nearby museum documents the history of the settlers, from their flight from France to their arrival and successful establishment of the Franschhoek wine region in the Cape of Good Hope. The little museum contains a variety of Bibles, documents, furniture, utensils, and artefacts, providing insight into the life of the Huguenots in the Cape. The memorial is graceful and the calm of the place is moving, considering the violent history of the fleeing Huguenots. The three high arches symbolise the Holy Trinity. The sun rising above them represents righteousness, and the cross represents the Huguenot's Christian faith. The central female figure personifies religious freedom, with a Bible in one hand and a broken chain in the
other. For any visitor interested in the history of French settlement in South Africa, or in the history of the beautiful Franschoek Valley in general, a visit here will be rewarding.
Address: Franschhoek
Website: http://www.museum.co.za
Afrikaans Monument and Museum Cape Winelands
The Afrikaans Language Museum pays tribute to a unique language that is little more than 300 years old. Created from the melting pot of languages in the Cape, Afrikaans developed from the need of Dutch settlers, French Huguenots, slaves from Malaysia, Indonesia, Madagascar, and West Africa, and the local Khoi people to communicate. The struggle to gain recognition of Afrikaans as an official language was carried out from Paarl, and the museum commemorates the people that played an important role in the process. The institution also explores the language in its diversity. Conspicuously absent from the material is the integral role Afrikaans played as the language of the apartheid oppressors. The Language Monument on Paarl Mountain was erected in 1975 to honour the Afrikaans language and is the only language monument in the world. The contribution to Afrikaans from the Western world, as well as from Africa, are represented by the three linked columns and three rounded shapes
respectively, while the 187 foot (57m) pillar symbolises the growth of the language. There are beautiful views from Paarl Mountain, where the monument is situated.
Following a long period of conflict and mistrust, including the treacherous murder of Piet Retief and his companions at the hands of the Zulu chief Dingaan, the Voortrekkers, led by Andries Pretorius, prepared for battle against the Zulu kingdom on the banks of the Ncome River on 16 December 1838. The 460 Voortrekkers formed an impenetrable laager, a defensive camp encircled with their ox-wagons, and fought the 15,000-strong impi attack until the Zulus finally retreated, leaving thousands dead and the river red with blood. The violent encounter became known as the Battle of Blood River. About 3,000 Zulu warriors are thought to have died in the battle but the Voortrekkers sustained only injuries. The Blood River/Ncome Heritage Site commemorates this significant battle with monuments and museums to both the Voortrekkers and the Zulus on both sides of the river. This gives the visitor a more complete perspective of events. On the east side is the Ncome Monument and Museum
Complex, dedicated to the fallen Zulu warriors, while the Blood River Monument and Museum is located on the west bank and features a life-size replica of the Boer wagon laager. The Ncome Museum building was designed in the shape of buffalo horns, recalling the battle formation in which the Zulu army attacked. It is definitely advisable to visit both museums.
Address: The site is 30 miles (48km) east of Dundee, off the R33
Website: http://www.ncomemuseum.co.za
Isandlwana Hill Battlefields
The battle at Isandlwana Hill on 22 January 1879 stunned the British Empire in what was to be the worst defeat in their imperial history. The news that an entire battalion of British troops had been wiped out by a 'native' army was unbelievable. Led by King Cetshwayo, the Zulu Kingdom had refused to submit to British rule and had been gaining strength. Consequently, it was perceived as a threat to British colonists. British troops were ordered to invade Zululand, but grossly underestimated the Zulu warriors. The surprise attack on the Isandlwana Hill British camp left hundreds dead. Isandlwana was the first major encounter of the Anglo-Zulu War. A force of about 20,000 Zulu warriors attacked a portion of the main British column, consisting of about 2,000 soldiers. British fatalities numbered about 1,300 and the Zulus sustained almost as many fatalities, but their far greater numbers gave them a decisive victory. The far superior weapons technology of the British should have
enabled them to withstand the attack but they were very poorly deployed.
Today, the battlefield is dotted with memorials, and mounds of white stones that mark the British mass graves. The beauty of the place belies the horror it once witnessed.
Address: The battlefield is 50 miles (80km) southeast of Dundee off the R68
Rorke's Drift Battlefields
Fought on the same day as the nearby battle at Isandlwana Hill, the Battle of Rorke's Drift is remembered as one of the most famous sieges of the Anglo-Zulu War. Survivors from Isandlwana fled to the Swedish mission station that was used as a British field hospital and storehouse, and sounded the alarm. Inside, the 139 men, many of them ill or wounded, barricaded themselves in and prepared for the onslaught of 4,000 Zulu warriors. The Battle Museum dramatically tells the tale of the 'Heroic Hundred' who desperately defended the station for 12 hours, until the Zulus finally retreated with a heavy loss of life. Seventeen British soldiers and about 500 Zulu attackers were killed in the siege. Eleven Victoria Crosses were awarded to the defenders, not the most ever given at any battle in British history, as is often claimed, but a prestigious honour nonetheless, and the most ever awarded to one regiment in a single action.
It is generally thought that although the courage of the defenders warranted recognition, the awards were also made to distract public opinion from the disastrous British defeat at Isandlwana. Interestingly, just before the Zulus arrived, a number of defenders fled Rorke's Drift and those remaining were so angry at the desertion that they shot after their own men, killing a corporal.
Address: The site is 26 miles (42km) from Dundee, off the R68
Ladysmith Siege Museum Battlefields
During the South African War, Ladysmith was besieged for 118 days between 2 November 1899 and 28 February 1900. Thousands died, either during battle or from disease and the lack of food and water. 21,000 Boers advanced into Natal from all sides when war was declared between the Boer republics and Britain. After two notable battles, the Boer forces surrounded the garrison town of Ladysmith, where the British commander and his core force were deployed. The siege was eventually broken by the British when a relief force entered Ladysmith - a force which included a young Churchill. But as with many battles in the war, it was a more a voluntary dispersal than a defeat, with the Boers choosing to fight another day rather than face British reinforcements. One touching story from this tragic and protracted siege is the tale of how the Boers sent a single unexploded shell into Ladysmith on Christmas day. It contained a Christmas pudding and a note wishing the British troops
compliments of the season.
The museum is considered one of the best Anglo-Boer War museums in the country. Its collection of artefacts, documents, firearms, and uniforms, as well as its series of excellent photographs tell a vivid story of battles between the Boer and British forces.
The N2 highway that connects Cape Town International Airport to the city is lined with townships, which consist of a mixture of shacks and solid buildings. During the days of apartheid, people of colour were not allowed to live in the white suburbs and were relocated to areas away from the city. These tours allow visitors to experience how the majority of Capetonians still live. Guides, often residents, take visitors around to meet the people, see community projects, have a drink in a shebeen (township pub) and shop for local crafts. Each township has its own colourful character, and despite their difficult living conditions, residents are generally friendly and hospitable. Townships were once no-go areas for many people but, today, visits are becoming popular among tourists to Cape Town. Visitors are advised not to visit the townships alone as crime is still rife and some areas are best avoided completely. There are many tour companies that offer wonderful trips, including
transport to and from the township areas.
There is the possibility that these tours can become unpleasantly voyeuristic in the wrong hands. Tourists should remember that they are exploring real communities where people live and should treat the locals with respect.
Telephone: Cape Town Tourism Visitor Information Centre: 021 487 6800, or Sivuyile Tourism Centre: 021 637 8449
Stellenbosch Cape Winelands
At the heart of the wine industry is the pretty town of Stellenbosch. Along with being the second oldest town in South Africa, it is regarded as the country's wine capital, with over 110 cellars in the area. The Stellenbosch vineyards were established by the Dutch governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel. He arrived in 1679 and noted that the combination of rich soil and ideal climate were perfect for viticulture. In 1971 the first wine route in South Africa was opened, and today the Stellenbosch wine route is perhaps the best known and finest that the country has to offer. It produces award-winning wines from estates such as Morgenhof, Kanonkop, Warwick, and Zewenwacht. Spier Estate is renowned as a unique cultural resort that is famous for its Summer Arts Festival, and boasts the oldest working wine cellar in the country. Stellenbosch is also steeped in South African history and Afrikaans culture and was settled by the Dutch East India Company to produce food for passing
ships.
Old oak trees line the streets where Cape Dutch architecture, museums, and national art collections are a reminder of the town's heritage. The town also boasts the world's only Afrikaans university. The premier educational institute has produced many great sporting heroes, including many Springbok rugby players.
Website: http://www.stellenboschtourism.co.za
Constantia Cape Winelands
Constantia is the origin of wine production in South Africa, and one of Cape Town's most exclusive suburbs. The Constantia wine route is the oldest yet smallest wine route in the Cape, consisting of just five wine farms that concentrate on producing a few wines of international quality and repute. The historic Cape Dutch homestead at Groot Constantia is one of the oldest wine estates in South Africa, home to the first governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel, and the valley's most famous wine farm. The house itself is furnished with items from the period, while an adjacent wine museum exhibits drinking and storage vessels in glass, silver, copper, and stoneware dating from 500 BC to the 19th century. There are some great restaurants at Groot Constantia as well as tasting rooms. Visitors are welcome to wander around the beautiful estate. The other four wine estates that are generally known to constitute the Constantia wine route are Klein Constantia, Steenberg,
Buitenverwachting and Constantia Uitsig, all of which include highly acclaimed restaurants.
Those who want to extend their route further can also explore Beau Constantia, Constantia Glen, Eagles' Nest and Silvermist Wine Estate. Meandering from one estate to another in Constantia is a glorious way to spend a day, complete with history, natural beauty, great food, and, of course, superb wine.
Website: http://www.constantiawineroute.com
Franschhoek Cape Winelands
Fleeing religious persecution in France in the 1700s, more than 200 French Huguenots arrived in the Cape and were settled in the valley that soon became known as Franschhoek (French Corner), which is today situated in the heart of the Cape Winelands region. Many of the settlers were experienced wine producers and they soon recognised the potential of the region for wine and fruit production, establishing wine estates throughout the spectacular Franschhoek Valley in surroundings of magnificent scenery and towering mountains. Today the town is famous not only for its splendid wines and beautiful vistas, but also as the gourmet capital of South Africa, boasting the highest number of award-winning eateries in the country. Restaurants such as Le Quartier Français, La Petite Ferme, Haute Cabriere, and Boschendal are among those that are internationally acclaimed. The Huguenots also left behind a rich legacy of arts, architecture, and hospitality, which are still visible today.
Franschhoek hosts a number of wonderful festivals, including a book fair, a big celebration for Bastille Day, and champagne and wine tasting festivals.
Website: http://www.franschhoek.org.za
Paarl Cape Winelands
Paarl is built in the picturesque Berg River Valley, which lies at the foot of the second-largest granite outcrop in the world. It is the biggest town in the Cape Winelands and the third oldest European settlement in South Africa. Paarl features some of the most superb examples of Cape Dutch, Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco architecture in the country. Its rich history includes Drakenstein Prison, where Nelson Mandela spent his last years in captivity. The Language Monument overlooks the town from the slopes of the Paarl Mountain, and symbolises the birth of the Afrikaans language. Along with its historical background, Paarl is also known for its award-winning wines, particularly its reds, which can be sampled along one of the world's first 'Red Routes'. Paarl's wine route includes more than 40 cellars, among them Nederburg and KWV. Many of them also make a variety of delicious cheeses. Paarl Mountain, or Paarl Rock, looms above the town and is sometimes compared to
Ayers Rock in Australia, although geologically they are very different. The rock is popular with climbers, but the routes are difficult and should not be attempted by the inexperienced. There are also many hikes and scenic drives in the verdant natural surroundings.
Website: http://www.paarlonline.com
Mossel Bay Garden Route
Mossel Bay is the largest city on the Garden Route and is situated roughly half way between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. It is renowned as the Adventure Capital of the Garden Route and enjoys an ideal climate, with an average of 320 days of sunshine per year and a moderate winter. Mossel Bay was discovered by Bartholomew Dias in 1488. He was the first European to land in South Africa. He was rounding the southernmost point of Africa, Cape Agulhas, when a strong wind blew him off course, into the protected bay of St Blaize, now called Mossel Bay. Here he found fresh water and set up a stop-over point for trade ships that were sailing to the East. Many explorers and traders placed important letters in an old shoe under a huge Milkwood tree which is now more than 500 years old. Today, letters are still posted from the Old Post Office Tree.
Adventure junkies come to Mossel Bay for a range of activities in the immediate vicinity: shark cage diving; sand boarding the longest sand dune in South Africa; feeding, riding, and picnicking with elephants; safaris with the Big Five; exploring the predator park where visitors can view white lions and tigers; tandem skydiving; dolphin and whale-watching boat trips; scuba diving; abseiling; helicopter flights, and more.
Other more sedate attractions include the largest shell museum in South Africa; an indigenous botanical garden with a braille trail fragranced for the sight impaired; a life-sized replica of Bartholomew Dias' caravel style ship; St Blaize Lighthouse and cave; and several world-class golf courses.
Mossel Bay is also well known for its wide selection of restaurants and excellent seafood. Many different types of accommodation are on offer, from budget backpackers to five star hotels. There are eight sandy white beaches to relax on and enjoy the sunshine.
Website: http://www.mosselbay.net
Wilderness Garden Route
Set on the Touws River estuary, the beautiful town of Wilderness is fast developing into a plethora of luxury holiday homes. The Wilderness National Park surrounds the destination and tempts paddlers with about nine miles (15km) of inland waterways. Park wardens offer some wonderful canoe trips and hiking trails, and numerous accommodation facilities are available. If relaxation is the priority, visitors will find an idyllic coastline, where lovely rock pools are exposed at low tide and long swathes of sand invite sun-bathing. Swimmers should note that while the sea is pleasantly warm in summer, the coastline can receive some dangerous currents. Fortunately, lifeguards are almost always present on the main beach in season. Wilderness is a favourite stop on the Garden Route and is close to a number of other popular coastal towns and villages, such as Knysna and Nature's Valley. The city of George is also nearby if travellers wish to visit malls or go to the cinema.
Two Oceans Aquarium Cape Town
Opening time: Daily 9:30am to 6pm
Admission: R160 (adults), R115 (children 14-17), R75 (children 4-13). Tickets valid for the day.
The Cape sits at the meeting place of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, and over 3,000 sea animals from both oceans are showcased in the aquarium. They highlight the diversity of marine life found in the waters around Cape Town. The Two Oceans Aquarium is one of the city's top attractions and visitors of all ages will be interested in the variety of exhibits. They include the Predator Exhibit, which features large sharks and rays, and the mesmerising Kelp Forest Exhibit. Animals such as seals, penguins and turtles, and thousands of different fish are on display too. It is also possible embark on dives in specific tanks. Advanced booking is required, divers must present dive qualifications, and the privilege does carry an additional charge. The Shoreline Cafe at the Aquarium boasts lovely views of Table Mountain and the harbour, and has a children's play area, making it an ideal place to have refreshments. However, visitors are spoilt for choice because the aquarium is located
at the famous V & A Waterfront, which is crammed full of great restaurants.
It is special to be able to stroll along the harbour after visiting the aquarium, and boat trips out into the open ocean can be arranged from there.
Address: V&A Waterfront
Website: http://www.aquarium.co.za
Muizenberg Cape Town
A historical beach-side suburb on the False Bay coast, Muizenberg is popular with families for its long beach, warm water (by Cape Town standards), beautiful views, and activities such as mini-golf and waterslides. The beach is famous for its row of colourful changing houses and is a photo favourite from the mountain road far above. Muizenberg beach has also long been the best place in Cape Town for beginner surfers to learn and enjoy the waves. Its break is far less daunting and competitive than Cape Town's other surf spots. Several popular surf schools have been established at Surfers Corner in Muizenberg, accompanied by a few fun cafés and restaurants. False Bay is also known for its Great White Shark population, but a shark watch service is in operation to give warning to bathers and surfers. Visitors should take note of the flag and siren system which is clearly explained on signposts.
A scenic walkway below the railway line links Muizenberg to the next seaside village of St James and its lovely tidal pool. The delightful fishing village of Kalk Bay is a few minutes' drive away, with its protected harbour and its main street lined with fascinating antique and art shops, as well as coffee shops, eateries and bars.
Getting there: The train line between Cape Town's centre and Simonstown runs through Muizenberg.
Website: http://www.muizenberg.info
SAB World of Beer Johannesburg
SABMiller started in South Africa and has expanded to become one of the world's largest and most popular brewers of beer. The World of Beer offers a fun, short tour, which summarises the history of the company, beer in general, and details the brewing process. The tour begins with a televised talk from Charles Glass, the brew master of the famous Castle Lager and the man responsible for laying the foundations of South African Breweries (SAB). The tour also covers ancient beer brewing in Mesopotamia and how it spread through Europe and Africa. Visitors get to learn about and sample traditional South African sorghum beer, and explore the evolution of brewing in South African culture. They will then visit the green houses where the raw ingredients are grown. The price includes one beer during the tour, a souvenir glass, two drink vouchers redeemable in the Tap Room, and bar snacks after the tour. Only those over 18 (the legal drinking age in South Africa) will be allowed to
partake in the beer drinking.
However, all ages are welcome on tours and the visit should prove interesting even for non-beer drinkers. Visitors are welcome to stay in the pub and have a few drinks for as long as they desire after their tour.
Address: Corner of President and Miriam Makeba Roads, Newtown
Website: http://www.worldofbeer.co.za
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Gardens Johannesburg
Johannesburg is one of the most densely treed cities in the world and has a number of pleasant parks and gardens. Among them, the Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden is undoubtedly the city's most superb green lung. Located in the west of Johannesburg, this urban oasis covers 741 acres (300ha), and offers lush gardens and scenic hiking trails. The botanical garden was founded in 1982, with the area used consistently for hiking and outdoor excursions since the 1800s. Locals consistently rate it the best place to explore nature in Gauteng. The gardens are a terrific place for birdwatchers and garden-enthusiasts interested in seeing a variety of fauna and flora. There are over 200 bird species as well as over 600 plant species in the gardens. The landscapes are a mixture of grassland and savanna, with some rocky outcrops and lots of little streams and kloofs. Parts of the garden are beautifully landscaped but swathes have been left as unspoilt wilderness.
After a walk or hike, it is common practice to enjoy a picnic on the lawns at the foot of the breath-taking Witpoortjie waterfall.
Address: End of Malcolm Road, Poortview, Roodepoort
Melville is an old suburb known for its quirky, artistic atmosphere, eclectic little shops, pavement cafés, fun bars, restaurants, and clubs. This trendy suburb is a hive of activity on any given night of the week. It is the place to go out and carouse in Johannesburg for visitors who prefer a bohemian vibe to the preppy, upmarket nightlife that generally characterises the city. Seventh Street is the central zone from which all the character emanates and is a great place to start. Its collection of book and antique shops, cafés, and other interesting storefronts are well worth exploring. Partygoers barhop into the small hours, but tourists should refrain from walking around too much at night, and be aware of pickpockets.
Address: West of the city centre
The Apartheid Museum Johannesburg
Situated near Gold Reef City, the Apartheid Museum chronicles South Africa's tragic and shameful history of black oppression. On display are relics of the apartheid system, an abhorrent regime which denied non-whites basic freedoms and an equal life in the country. Visitors often describe the experience of the Apartheid Museum as harrowing. At the same time, the story of the struggle over adversity is inspirational and serves as an integral and important part of the new South African narrative and its reflections on history. To give some idea of the everyday realities of racial classification, visitors arbitrarily are classified as either 'white' or 'non-white' upon arrival and can only enter through their designated entrance. Due to graphic content, the museum does not allow children under the age of 11. Probably South Africa's most impressive and hard-hitting museum, a visit to the Apartheid Museum is a must for visitors to Johannesburg interested in the country's
history. The museum often ranks as the number one tourist attraction in the city. Allow at least three hours if you want to explore thoroughly.
Address: Northern Parkway and Gold Reef Road, Ormonde, Johannesburg
Website: http://www.apartheidmuseum.org
Constitution Hill Johannesburg
A guided tour of the National Heritage Site of Constitution Hill takes visitors on a journey through South Africa's turbulent past, but also illustrates its incredible transition into democracy. There a number of tours of Constitutional Hill. Tourists can visit the Number Four prison, a dark and terrible place where Mahatma Ghandi, Robert Sobukwe, and Nelson Mandela were all incarcerated, along with many other victims of the racial hierarchy. The Old Fort is also open to the public. Built in 1893, it was a prison for white men (including British prisoners of war) during the South African War, and one of Johannesburg's oldest buildings. Visitors may also be interested in the Women's Prison, a pretty Victorian building where political activists like Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Albertina Sisulu endured terrible suffering, and infamous murderess Daisy de Melker was incarcerated. Lastly, tourists might want to visit the Constitutional Court. It is the institution responsible
for ensuring that the human rights horrors that once characterised Constitution Hill will never occur again. Tours must be booked in advance via the official website listed below. Tours take about an hour and a half and are very informative. The Constitutional Court is open to the public. Exploring Constitution Hill provides an interesting overview of the prison system during apartheid and it is one of Johannesburg's most fascinating historical attractions.
Address: Constitutional Court, Johannesburg
Website: http://www.constitutionhill.org.za
Hector Pieterson Memorial Site and Museum Johannesburg
Hector Pieterson became the iconic image of the 1976 Soweto Uprising in Apartheid South Africa, when a news photograph of the dying Hector being carried by a fellow student was published across the globe. He was just 12 years old when the police opened fire on school children who had gathered to protest the imposition of Afrikaans as a medium of instruction in township schools. The protest was intended to be peaceful but became a violent confrontation when police demanded that the students disperse; students threw stones and police fired bullets. News of the bloodshed ignited uprisings across the country in which 550 people were killed. Hector was one of the first to die on that tragic day. The museum fuses memorabilia with modern technology and cultural history and is located two blocks away from where Hector was killed. Hector's sister, Antoinette, who is seen in the famous photograph holding her hands out in panic, worked for many years as a tour guide at the museum. The
16th of June is a public holiday named National Youth Day in South Africa. It honours the youth who bravely stood up to the apartheid regime, and young people in general.
Address: Hector Pieterson Sq., corner of Khumalo and Pela, Orlando West, Soweto
Cradle of Humankind and Maropeng Visitor Centre Johannesburg
The Cradle of Humankind is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and contains a complex of dolomitic limestone caves, including the well-known Sterkfontein Caves, where the fossil Australopithecus africanus (nicknamed Mrs. Ples) was found in 1947 by Dr Robert Broom and John Robinson. 'Mrs Ples' is estimated to be between 2.6 and 2.8 million years old and ranks high on the long list of australopithecine discoveries for which Sterkfontein is now famous. At present, only the Sterkfontein Caves and the Wonder Cave are open to the public. The Maropeng Visitor Centre is a stirring, world-class exhibition space, focusing on the development of humans and our ancestors and evolution over the past few million years. The museum has fun interactive exhibits which the whole family will enjoy. Visitors should note that the best option for fully appreciating the visit is buying the combination ticket for the caves and the museum. However, this ticket is only available before 1pm as the tour takes
some time.
There are a number of restaurants at the centre, both upmarket and casual, and some picturesque picnic sites for those who prefer to bring their own food. There is a range of accommodation at the centre for those who want to spend a night or two.
Website: http://www.maropeng.co.za
Ratanga Junction Cape Town
Opening time: Operational dates vary according to season, detailed schedules are available on the website. Ratanga tends to open mainly during South African school holidays.
Cape Town's most famous theme park, Ratanga Junction, is a must for all those up for a thrilling day out in the sun. Its rides and activities will keep even the most active of children occupied. The park features gift shops and a food hall for weary riders, or those just looking to rest their legs for a while. There are regular shows at the food court stage to entertain youngsters, including magicians, animal shows, and dancers. The Cobra is by far the most popular ride. The snake-like roller coaster flips occupants round 360 degrees in an array of dips, corkscrews and hard turns. Other favourites include Monkey Falls: a water-log ride that sees passengers drop down big waterfalls, and several smaller roller coasters. There are plenty of mellow rides designed for small children who aren't ready for the adrenalin-pumping stuff, but adults will be thrilled with the quality of rides they can enjoy.
Almost all of the rides are included in the entry cost money, with the exception of things like the Slingshot, which carry individual charges. Parents who are not interested in participating can get a non-rider ticket which costs substantially less.
There are plenty of snack kiosks dotted around the grounds. The queues can get frustratingly long so it is best to go on week days if possible. Visitors should note that Ratanga Junction only opens seasonally. They should check whether the theme park is open on the official website before visiting to avoid disappointment.
Address: Century City on the N1 highway
Website: http://www.ratanga.co.za
World of Birds and Monkey Park Cape Town
Opening time: World of Birds: 9am to 5pm daily. Monkey Jungle: 11:30am to 1pm and 2pm to 3:30pm daily.
Admission: R95 (adults); R45 (children).
With a population of more than 3,000 birds and over 400 different species, the World of Birds is the largest bird park in Africa. Its one-hundred-plus walk-through aviaries allow visitors to encounter the birds in their natural environment. The park has other animals as well. Its mammals include foxes, monkeys, meerkats, racoons, guinea pigs, marmosets, mongooses and porcupines. Monkeys are one of the highlights. Visitors will find more than 30 of them in a large walk-through enclosure, where they can interact with the animals at certain times of day. There are also some reptiles such skinks, iguanas, terrapins and tortoises. World of Birds has a children's play area and a tearoom for parents to stop and take a break.
Address: Valley Road, Hout Bay
Website: http://www.worldofbirds.org.za
Seal Island Cape Town
Seal Island visitors can glimpse of these wonderful animals at play and at rest. Although several tiny islands off the coast are unofficially part of Seal Island, the most well-known is Duiker Island. Located a small distance out from Hout Bay, boats regularly leave the docks and take passengers outside the harbour and into the ocean. From here, they can enjoy sweeping views of Hout Bay, Noordhoek, Kommetjie, and the famous Chapman's Peak. The boat stops just below the Hout Bay Sentinal, where hundreds of Cape fur seals bask on the small island in the sun. The sight is magical, if a bit pungent. Many of the boat tours use glass-bottomed vessels that allow sightings of the seals zipping about beneath the water. The charming naval harbour of Simon's Town has a colony too, with tours also leaving its shores. The great white sharks that frequent the False Bay region often lurk hungrily around the islands. Sightings of these awesome apex predators are possible, albeit rare.
There are excursions that specialise in spotting the act of breaching, whereby the sharks propel themselves out of the water on catching their prey.
Address: Hout Bay Harbour or Simon's Town Harbour.
Union Buildings Pretoria
Designed by renowned South African architect, Sir Herbert Baker, the Union Buildings are located on Meintjieskop hill: a sentinel overlooking the city of Pretoria. They are the official seat of the country's government and houses the offices of the South African President and other government officials. The Union Buildings are a South African Monument and have seen such icons as former South African president, Nelson Mandela, inaugurated. The main semi-circular building is considered an architectural masterpiece and is an easily recognisable South African landmark. It is worth seeing and photographing for tourists in the area. With spectacular terraced gardens full of indigenous flora, the Union Buildings are not only historically important, but also rather beautiful. The spacious gardens are a popular venue for picnics and wedding photos and visitors are welcome every day.
However, the buildings themselves are never open to the public. There are various monuments to see in the gardens, including the South African Police Memorial and a monument to General Louis Botha, the first prime minister of the Union of South Africa.
National Zoological Gardens of South Africa Pretoria
Commonly known as the Pretoria Zoo, the National Zoological Gardens of South Africa is often described as one of the leading zoos in the world. It is the largest zoo in South Africa and the only one with national status. Tickets include a visit to the zoo, an aquarium, and a reptile park. The Pretoria Zoo cares for more than 200 mammal species, more than 200 bird species, around 190 fish species, and more than 90 reptile species. The zoo is known for its large enclosures and animals which include cheetahs, chimps, lemurs, leopards, rhinos, hippos, elephants, red pandas, koala bears, lions, and tigers. Golf carts and children's pushcarts are available for rent and there is even a Zoo Choo-Choo Tractor Train for the kids to enjoy. The cable car, which runs up a hill and offers great views over the city, is one of the highlights. Visitors will also find a restaurant, a cafeteria with a wide variety of take-away options, a few snack kiosks, and numerous pretty picnic sites
where they can relax in the shade. Some picnic sites even have barbeque facilities.
There are a variety of tour options at the zoo and those who want to take something away with them can try the curio shop for souvenirs.
Address: 232 Boom St
Website: http://www.nzg.ac.za
Loftus Versfeld Stadium Pretoria
A shrine for many of Pretoria's rugby fanatics, the Loftus Versfeld Stadium seats over 50,000 people and was one of the stadiums that hosted matches in the 2010 FIFA World Cup. The land on which the stadium was built was first used for sporting events in 1903 and is named after Robert Owen Loftus Versfeld, who is attributed with establishing organised sport in Pretoria. Loftus Versfeld stadium is home to the Blue Bulls: the local rugby team. Passionately supported by Pretorians, the team has been very successful locally and internationally. The stadium has hosted numerous big sporting events, such as the 1995 Rugby World Cup and the 1996 CAF Africa Cup of Nations. Enthusiastic sports fans may want to add the stadium to their sightseeing itinerary, and rugby supporters travelling to Pretoria should try and take in a game at this famous South African venue. Those who are indifferent to rugby and sport in general may want to check for other events showing at this superb venue
during their stay.
Kruger House Museum Pretoria
The former residence of Boer leader and President of the Republic of South Africa, Paul Kruger, is now the Kruger House Museum. Built in 1884, the house was the last one in which President Kruger would live before leaving South Africa to go into exile in Europe. Exhibitions in the museum detail Kruger's leading role in the South African War, formerly known as the Anglo-Boer War, against Britain. It also provides information regarding his presidency at a formative and tumultuous period in South African history, and his exile to Europe. Adjacent to Kruger House is the former Bantu Commissioner's Office. Erected in 1932, it was also used as the Native Pass Office. Kruger's government used the same site as police headquarters. The house contains some original furnishings from Kruger's residency and some other items from that historical period. Present too are many gifts that were presented to Kruger, such as the lion statues on the veranda, as well as other memorabilia. The
museum mainly aims to recreate the living conditions of the time, but also gives some insight into the life of this South African character.
Although the museum may not be entertaining for all tourists, those interested in the historical period should find it worthwhile.
Address: 60 Church Street
Pretoria National Botanical Garden Pretoria
Featuring indigenous plants and flowers from all over South Africa, the Pretoria National Botanical Garden bridges the gap between scientific research and recreational garden pleasures. The garden is home to over 198 bird species, a few reptiles and even small mammals like the adorable duiker. A high quartzite outcrop divides the grounds into two sections: a colder, south-facing section, and a warmer, north-facing section, presenting slightly different natural moods. A paved nature trail provides access to the ridge, which boasts a wonderful diversity of indigenous flora and fauna. More than half of the total area is dedicated to landscaped garden, using almost exclusively South African vegetation, including 50 percent of the country's tree species. The garden includes several distinct biomes, with savanna and forest sections. A great place for a relaxing walk or picnic, the gardens also feature Mokha Restaurant, which overlooks a small wetland. No pets are allowed in the
garden, except guide dogs. Picnics are encouraged, though no fires or braais (barbeques) are permitted anywhere in the grounds. Neither bicycles nor skateboards are allowed.
Address: 2 Cussonia Avenue, Brummeria
Website: http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/pretoria
President Brand Street Bloemfontein
President Brand Street has been declared a national conservation area, and is home to a number of monuments and buildings of historical value. Nobody visiting Bloemfontein should pass up the opportunity to stroll down one of the city's most stately and historically important streets, encountering striking examples of 19th and 20th-century buildings along the way. The South African Court of Appeal and the Supreme Court of South Africa are located on this street, as is the National Afrikaans Literature Museum. Travellers can view the original transcript of South Africa's former national anthem, Die Stem, at the Literature Museum. Travellers will find the equally interesting National Music Museum on President Brand Street too. Bloemfontein's City Hall is another of the street's important addresses. Completed in 1936, its cornerstone was laid by Prince George, Duke of Kent. The Old Presidency was built in 1861, on the spot that was once the British Major Henry Warden's
farmhouse. The sandstone buildings give the area a distinct character and aesthetic, creating some great photographic opportunities.
Address: President Brand Street, Bloemfontein
Oliewenhuis Art Gallery Bloemfontein
From its distinguished setting in a Cape Dutch mansion, the Oliewenhuis Art Gallery is a must-see Bloemfontein attraction that features an expansive display of South African art. Designed in 1935 and completed in 1941, the Neo-Dutch mansion was built as the residence of the Governor General of the Union of South Africa, and once hosted King George VI and his family on their visit to Bloemfontein. The residence was opened as the city's art museum in 1989, after long-term petitioning by Bloemfontein's artistic community. Contemporary paintings and sculptures are exhibited here, as well as acclaimed masterpieces from days gone by. One of the most exciting and unique aspects of the museum is the remarkable exhibition space in the old underground reservoir. The gallery also has a café and outdoor sculpture park for visitors to enjoy. Kids will love the colourful Africa Carousel. It was created by multiple artists crafting each individual creature to integrate European and
African mythology. Located on Grant's Hill and surrounded by miles of unspoilt nature, visitors can also enjoy exploring the walking trails that wind around the museum.
Address: 16 Harrismith Street, Bloemfontein
King's Park Bloemfontein
Opened by the Prince of Wales in 1925, King's Park boasts over 4,000 beautiful rose bushes. In fact, Bloemfontein literally means 'flower fountain' and is often referred to locally as the 'city of roses'. It is the city's largest and loveliest green space and a nice spot to unwind and escape from the hustle and bustle of the city. A colourful and fragrant park set on a lake and with grassy areas where children can expend some energy, the park is a good attraction for those travelling with kids. King's Park is also home to the Bloemfontein Zoo, established in 1906. There is a popular arts and crafts market at King's Park on the first Saturday of each month, where food stalls compete with paintings and sculptures as well as other crafts like jewellery and some wonderful bargains can be found. The market is open from about 7am to 1pm. Those looking for other outdoor areas in Bloemfontein should head to Naval Hill, which provides striking views over the city and borders the
Franklin Game Reserve.
KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board Durban
For something fun and educational, parents should take their kids to the KwaZulu-Natal Sharks Board. Located just nine miles (15km) north of Durban, it offers visitors the chance to learn about the marine life found off the coast of Durban's Golden Mile. The Sharks Board maintains the coastlines shark safety gear. It also does research into sharks and runs a public education programme. There are almost daily presentations and shark dissections at the complex. Kids will love visiting the display hall to view the variety of lifelike replicas of sharks, fish and rays, including that of a 1966-pound (892kg) great white shark. The dissections can be disturbing for sensitive kids but they are fascinating and very educational. Indeed, some odd things have been discovered in the bellies of sharks. Visitors can join boat trips to view shark nets being serviced. On these trips, kids can see and learn about the dolphins, seabirds, and fish life that abound off Durban's coast. Boat
trips must be booked in advance. The Sharks Board is near Gateway Mall and the Umhlanga Rocks city centre.
Address: 1a Herrwood Drive, Umhlanga
Website: http://www.shark.co.za
Mini Town Durban
Located on Durban's beachfront, this knee-high miniature replica of Durban makes a great outing for families and kids of all ages. It features moving models of planes and trains, a circus complete with animals, a movable bridge which makes way for passing ships, several of Durban's landmark buildings, and a tug boat that makes its way around its very own miniature dock. All models and buildings have been created on a 1:24 scale. Mini Town was established more than 30 years ago and, although it is very well-maintained, it has retained a charming, old-fashioned appeal. There is a small restaurant kiosk where snacks and refreshments can be purchased. Mini Town is owned by the Quadriplegic Association of KwaZulu-Natal and is used as a method of raising funds for their organisation while providing employment for some of their members. It is therefore a worthwhile tourist attraction to support. It is located on a main bus line, and is within easy walking distance of Suncoast
Casino and many popular beachfront hotels.
Address: 114 Snell Parade, Beachfront
Moses Mabhida Stadium Durban
The Moses Mabhida Stadium was built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup and is one of South Africa's most picturesque stadiums. With its iconic 'arch of triumph', the waves of the Indian Ocean crashing in the background, and an amazing view of Durban's Beachfront, the stadium is an epic place to take in a sports game. However, it also offers some other attractions that will delight tourists. Adventurers will be able to enjoy the rush of the Big Swing, the world's only stadium swing and the largest swing of its kind in the world. After an adrenalin-pumping jump from the stadium's arch, 348 feet (106m) above the pitch, people will swing out over the pitch and 80,000 seats below. Think of it as an upright bungi jump. The Sky Car is perhaps the stadium's most notable attraction. It ferries up to 20 people to the stadium arch's highest point, from where they can enjoy incredible panoramic views of the city, while the Skywalk takes visitors up 550 steps of the arch and back down
again.
There are also a bunch of shops and restaurants at the stadium and tours are available for those who want to explore. The various attractions at the stadium all have different costs and timetables. Check the official website listed below for details.
Located just a 45-minute drive inland from Durban, Tala Private Game Reserve is a relaxed wildlife sanctuary where visitors can view zebra, hippo, rhino, giraffe, kudu, antelope, and other wildlife. The park is home to more than 350 bird species and is a delight for bird-watchers. Surrounded on all sides by farmland, visitors won't find predators like lions or cheetahs in Tala, but the reserve is a great day trip for those who prefer not to head to the bigger parks like Umfolozi or Kruger. Game drives and bush walks are available with experienced guides and should be booked in advance. The restaurant is excellent, offering buffet-style meals with African flair, and the various luxury accommodations are perfect for romantic getaways. It's also a popular venue for weddings and conferences. Tala allows self-drive safaris, which don't have to be booked in advance. Visitors can also opt to be taken on a two-hour trip with a knowledgeable guide, either by 4x4, on horseback, or on
foot.
The open grassland and wetland of the park are ideal for game viewing and good for photography. Tala is a year-round travel destination, but winter is generally the best season for game viewing as the animals are easier to spot when the landscape is less lush.
Website: http://www.tala.co.za
Umgeni River Bird Park Durban
Tucked away near an industrial section of Durban North and the Umgeni River, the Umgeni River Bird Park houses an ever-growing bird population. Over 200 species of birds live as residents along the shady winding paths. The park is situated in a lush tropical garden in what used to be an old quarry site. It was opened in 1984 after extensive landscaping. The park's free-flight bird show, which runs from Tuesday to Sunday at 11am and 2pm, has been entertaining families and school groups for over a decade. It featuring vultures, owls, cranes, and other impressive fowl. The free-flight shows are also available on Mondays during South African school holidays. The birds included in the show change frequently and a visit to the park is hardly complete without seeing this performance. There is an undercover cafe in the heart of the park that offers refreshments and light meals. The park is accessible by bus, but the route is not in constant use.
Address: 490 Riverside Road, Durban
Website: http://www.umgeniriverbirdpark.co.za
Hermanus Cape Town
Locals and international tourists alike travel south of Cape Town to Hermanus. The charming seaside town is about a two-hour drive outside the Mother City, and is known for its whale watching, as Southern Right Whales migrate through the area to nearby Walker Bay. Visitors are almost guaranteed a sighting of these gentle giants from the steep cliffs of Hermanus between September and October, and the Two Oceans Whale Festival draws big crowds over this period. There are also opportunities to view other wildlife, including dolphins, seals, penguins, and Great White Sharks. The town itself offers many other activities. These include browsing shops and restaurants in the quaint downtown area to venturing further afield to wine farms and beaches and neighbouring towns like Stanford, Gansbaai, and Caledon. Active pursuits include horseback riding, quad biking, hiking, sandboarding, mountain biking, kayaking, and zip lining. Strolling along the cliff walk in Hermanus is a must for
visitors, even if there are no whales in the bay. Book fanatics should seek out the wonderful second-hand book store in Hermanus called Hemingways.
Website: http://www.hermanus.co.za
Langebaan West Coast
Located just 75 miles (120km) from Cape Town, Langebaan languished for years in relative obscurity, remaining an excellent retirement destination and a popular place for local fishing enthusiasts to spend the weekend. However, in recent years, picturesque Langebaan has been getting the attention it deserves and has become a frequented West Coast tourist destination. It offers an incredible range of fun water sports and adventure activities, as well as top-class beach resort accommodation and a winning selection of restaurants and shops. The water in the Langebaan Lagoon is warm enough to swim in all year round. The most popular water-sport activities in Langebaan include sailing, kayaking, kitesurfing, waterskiing, and fishing, while the town's upmarket resorts also offer quintessential vacation amenities like golf courses, swimming pools, and tennis courts. Animal lovers should note that Langebaan is the ornithological capital of South Africa, boasting over 300 species of
birds. Most of them can be viewed in the nearby West Coast National Park.
Exploring the national park is a must when in Langebaan, as this is the best place to experience the beautiful area's unspoilt and unusual landscapes.
Saldanha West Coast
Saldanha is a small, attractive town situated on the northern shore of Saldanha Bay. The deep natural harbour sustains the area's economy and provides countless water sport and fishing opportunities to visitors. Saldanha Bay's fishing industry is underpinned by the export of delicacies such as crayfish, mussels, and oysters. This fine selection of seafood naturally characterises the town's gastronomy. Visitors can look forward to a range of fun activities, including kite-surfing, waterskiing and deep-sea diving. The area is also immensely popular with game-fishing devotees, who man their rods and try to entice yellowtail, tuna, and snoek from the ocean depths. Accommodation in Saldanha is plentiful, catering to luxury resort clientele as well as backpackers. In season (June to November), Saldanha is one of South Africa's better whale-watching destinations, as schools of humpback and southern right whales gather off the Atlantic coast to calve. Like most of the West Coast,
Saldanha is not a glitzy travel destination but is charming in its own right.
West Coast National Park West Coast
Located just 70 miles (110km) north of Cape Town, the West Coast National Park showcases the very best of the region's natural beauty. The attraction stretches from the quaint seaside town of Yzerfontein to the turquoise-blue Langebaan Lagoon, and stands out among South Africa's celebrated national parks. It is most famous for its bird life, with thousands gracing the rocks on its golden beaches, and thousands more filling the park's salt marshes with their varied songs and warbles. However, the West Coast National Park is also home to some interesting wildlife, including eland, red hartebeest, and caracal. The Postberg section is an excellent place to view Namaqualand Daisies when the countryside becomes carpeted in bright wildflowers during August and September. Whether gazing at pretty flamingos or diving osprey, a visit to the West Coast National Park is a must for nature-lovers. It offers a convenient and thorough introduction to the West Coast's natural treasures,
along with some stunningly beautiful and unspoilt beaches.
Paternoster is a quaint fishing village outside Cape Town. Its name comes from the prayers of shipwrecked Portuguese sailors who fell afoul of its rugged coastline. These days, many consider it the ideal West Coast beach-holiday destination. The first thing visitors will notice are the rows and rows of white-washed fisherman houses: a lovely, and incredibly photogenic, architectural quirk that will linger long in the memory. A holiday in Paternoster is probably best taken at a snail's pace. That is, visitors will enjoy taking long walks on the fine sandy beaches and observing the region's bird life. For active types, hiking trails, mountain biking, sea kayaking, diving, and spear-fishing excursions are available. The West Coast gets extremely hot but the freezing sea water will certainly cool visitors down. Finally, one of Paternoster's most abiding attractions is the quality and availability of fresh fish and seafood, especially crayfish.
Yzerfontein West Coast
Yzerfontein is about an hour outside Cape Town, and is the ideal getaway for those seeking a serene beach holiday. Along with its sunshine and mild winters, the tranquil seaside village is much loved for its Sixteen Mile Beach, which connects it to the Postberg conservancy area in the West Coast National Park. Travellers who venture to the park in August and September will see Namaqualand's wildflowers bloom in fabulous explosions of colour. Yzerfontein visitors can also enjoy fishing, hiking, skiing, mountain biking and whale watching. Only the brave are likely to swim in the region's very cold sea.
Darling West Coast
Darling is a fast growing tourist destination in South Africa. From the second visitors pull into this dusty station town, they'll understand exactly why. Located in a valley of golden hills in the Swartland region of South Africa's West Coast, Darling is a thoroughly charming spot with a local brewery and opportunities to go olive and wine tasting. Although Darling offers high-quality dining options, the town's main claim to fame is its most famous resident, satirist Pieter-Dirk Uys. He is perhaps better known by his alter-ego: Evita Bezuidenhout. Pieter-Dirk Uys has invested lots of time and energy in Darling, creating not only a popular cabaret venue (Evita se Perron), but also founding the Darling Trust: an organisation that promotes social upliftment through the arts. Visitors shouldn't miss the small museum and craft market, which, in addition to housing several hilarious satirical paintings, also displays some priceless correspondence between Evita and notable
figures from South Africa's history, including Nelson Mandela, Desmond Tutu, FW de Klerk, and PW Botha.
Agriculturally prosperous and blessed with plenty of sun, Darling is a must-see destination. It is a magical place where horse-carriages still canter past quaint Victorian cottages and the most stressful decision of the day is which restaurant or wine farm to try next. Darling is also home to an annual Wildflower Show (August to September), where the famous Namaqualand Daisies can be viewed in all their glory.
The Cederberg West Coast
When the film version of JM Coetzee's celebrated novel Disgrace was made, the film-makers controversially opted to ditch the book's original Eastern Cape setting in favour of various locations in and around the Cederberg: a mountainous conservancy area about 190 miles (300km) north of Cape Town. Their reasoning for this was simply that the Cederberg is one of the most beautiful, unspoiled areas of South Africa and that foreign audiences deserved to see this often-overlooked natural wonderland in all its glory. No doubt aided by this exposure, the Cederberg has quickly grown into one of the leading ecotourism destinations in Southern Africa. It is the premium destination for those outdoor adventurers looking to get to grips with South Africa's unique and varied landscape. Although there are plenty of lovely towns in the greater region, including Ceres and Clanwilliam, the real draw card is staying within the Cederberg Wilderness Area, a massive conservancy administered by
Cape Nature.
Their main campsite, Algeria, is a great place to stay, although there are plenty of privately-owned alternatives, such as Sanddrif, Driehoek, and Krom River, to choose from as well. Great activities in the Cederberg include hiking and rock climbing, and walking tours of caves where San rock art can be seen. The best time to visit the Cederberg is between November and April, when days are warm and there is not much rain around.
Nature's Valley Garden Route
One of the most beautiful nooks of a decidedly beautiful country, Nature's Valley is an enchanting and relatively undiscovered holiday resort on the Garden Route. Located about 18 miles (29km) from Plettenberg Bay and surrounded by the Tsitsikamma National Forest, Nature's Valley is a gorgeously lush area of tall bearded trees, monkey ropes, and rich bird life. It also happens to sport one of the prettiest coastlines in the country. Featuring great weather all year round and a decided lack of non-essential infrastructure, Nature's Valley is the perfect place to go for tourists looking to relax and rejuvenate in peace and quiet. There are plenty of scenic walks and hiking trails for adventure enthusiasts. In fact, Nature's Valley marks the end of the Otter Trail, one of South Africa's most famous hikes. Canoeing down the river and swimming in the sheltered lagoon are also fun excursions. Accommodation in Nature's Valley comes in all shapes and sizes: from luxury villas which
can be rented on a monthly basis, to the excellent Wild Spirit Lodge and Backpacker Hostel, which offers affordable lodging in a funky and eco-friendly environment.
Nieu-Bethesda Port Elizabeth
Tourists looking to take an adventure to a legitimately weird and wonderful South African town should head to the interior of the Eastern Cape and check out Nieu-Bethesda. Located about 32 miles (50km) from Graaff Reinet in the Karoo Heartland, Nieu-Bethesda is a tiny, sleepy place that seems to exist in blissful ignorance of modern life. Devoid of banks, paved roads, and even streetlights, Nieu-Bethesda nonetheless still boasts several excellent and one-of-a-kind tourist attractions. The pick of these is the Owl House: a bizarre and unsettling sculpture garden created by reclusive artist Helen Martins. She was a frustrated visionary who suffered under the apartheid system and who took her own life in 1976. The Owl House is cluttered with cement and wire sculptures of a religious nature, painstakingly decorated with crushed glass, and gives a fascinating insight into a tortured and singular artistic personality. Other sights in Nieu-Bethesda include a great archaeological
museum and tour, where visitors are shown fossils that date back 160 million years. Present too is the Kompasberg, the Eastern Cape's highest peak and a wonderful place to hike on agathosma-scented slopes.
Finally, all visitors to Nieu-Bethesda are strongly encouraged to have lunch at the Two Goats Deli, a family-run establishment that specialises in home-made goat's cheese and home-brewed beer.
Soweto Johannesburg
Soweto's history goes back to 1903, when Kliptown was established as the first black settlement on the outskirts of Johannesburg. An abbreviation for South-Western Township, Soweto has had a turbulent history and was at the centre of the Apartheid struggle in South Africa. The ANC and other organisations adopted the Freedom Charter in Kliptown in 1955, and the Soweto Uprising of 1976 was one of the pivotal events in the struggle. Soweto is home to several famous landmarks, including Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital in Diepkloof, Walter Sisulu Square in Kliptown, Regina Mundi Catholic Church in Rockville, and the Freedom Towers. In Orlando, tourists can visit Vilikazi Street, which is the only street in the world to have been the home of two Nobel Peace Prize winners (Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu). On the street, Mandela House has been restored to the state it was in when the former president lived there.
A number of historic museums are also popular attractions in Soweto, including the Hector Pieterson Museum, the Kliptown Open-Air Museum, and the Apartheid Museum. The Orlando Cooling Towers are a fun, popular attraction. Part of a decommissioned coal-fired power station, the towers have been brightly painted and offer rap jumping opportunities.
Tours of Soweto are a must for any first-time visitor to Johannesburg and South Africa, and a number of tour operators offer trips into Soweto. The most popular are the historical tours, stopping at museums and famous sites, and the nightlife tours, which include stops at local shebeens (township bars).
Soweto is also home to some excellent restaurants, ranging from five-star establishments to holes-in-the-wall, which serve local African cuisine. Although many tourists have concerns about whether it's safe to visit Soweto, most visits are completely trouble-free when organised by a reputable tour operator.
Website: http://www.soweto.co.za
The Golden Mile Durban
Durban's most popular attraction is the length of beach stretching across one end of the city centre. Known as the Golden Mile, the beach starts in the north at Blue Lagoon and eventually stops at uShaka Marine World in South Beach. There are various picnic and fishing hotspots, as well as the Suncoast Casino and Mini Town on North Beach. Along the way, they will travel past the skatepark, surfing museum, and restaurants in the Bay of Plenty. Dotted with elaborate kiddie pools and set against a backdrop of high-rise hotels and holiday flats, the Golden Mile is indeed the epicentre of Durban tourism. A wide, flat promenade runs nearly the entire way, dotted here and there with joggers, rickshaws and rollerbladers. The sandy beach is flat, and its gloriously warm waters are good both for surfing and swimming. The amphitheatre near North Beach hosts a large flea market on Sundays, offering everything from beaded jewellery and wood carvings to saris and DVDs.
During the day, the Golden Mile is a paradise for holidaymakers and beachgoers. However, it is not considered safe to walk on the promenade after dark. Visitors should keep watch of their belongings at all times and beware of pickpockets.
Coffee Bay Transkei
Coffee Bay is a small inlet in the heart of the Wild Coast. Situated near Mthatha and with only a post office, a grocery store and a few B&Bs and backpackers to its name, the destination largely appeals to students and the young at heart. Its nightlife consists of drumming circles and the occasional trance party. Coffee Bay has some of the best surfing in South Africa, though, along with swimming, spear fishing and scuba diving. Nature lovers who explore its unspoiled coastline may see whales, dolphins and the occasional Cape Clawless Otter. The area is a paradise for golfers, hikers and anyone interested in horseback riding, too. Travellers who enjoy peaceful strolls along beaches with only wildflowers and natural forests for company will also appreciate the Wild Coast. All visitors should definitely stop at the iconic Hole in the Wall: a site where the sea has carved a giant tunnel through a rock. Seafood fans can buy fresh catches from local fisherman.
Richards Bay Durban
Richards Bay is one of South Africa's biggest ports. Situated on the 12 square mile (30 sq km) lagoon of the Mhlatuze River, it began as a makeshift harbour during the South African War of 1879 and is named after its founder, Sir Frederick Richards. The specialised ships that call are a must-see for maritime buffs. The town is a bustling business centre that features every modern facility and offers plenty of recreational facilities for visitors. Tourism in Richards Bay is thriving and it's fast becoming a popular north coast holiday destination. Visitors will find spectacular scenery, pristine golden beaches and the warm waters of the Indian Ocean. Tourists can also enjoy plenty of adventurous activities such as fishing, kite-surfing, yachting, and kayaking. Humpback dolphins and whales are frequent visitors to the waters around Richards Bay and can be viewed from a specially erected viewing point at Alkantstrand Beach. While the town itself is fairly sleepy, Richards Bay
is an entry point to the beautiful and diverse Zululand. Additionally, a multitude of game reserves are within an hour or two's drive of the town. Hluhluwe Umfolozi Park is always a big hit with nature lovers, as it features the Big Five (elephants, lions, leopards, buffalo, and rhinos) as well as cheetahs, wild dogs, and nyala.
Lake Mzingazi is Richards Bay's primary water supply, and a popular tourist attraction. Visitors can view crocodiles and hippos as well as over 350 species of birds.
The surrounds of Richard's Bay have vast expanses of untouched and unspoilt indigenous vegetation, as well as natural lakes and marshes. This makes it one of the most picturesque tourist destinations in the country.
Inkwenkwezi Game Reserve Transkei
The beautiful Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve is a great place to stay in the Transkei. Encompassing five distinct biomes and a tidal estuary along the Eastern Cape's Wild Coast, the private, luxury reserve provides access to diverse coastal landscapes and some magnificent beaches. The reserve is home to the big five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) and numerous other animals. However, the main attraction from a wildlife point of view is the presence of some extremely rare white lions. Inkwenkwezi is a Xhosa word meaning 'under the stars' and the reserve prides itself on good service and attention to detail as well as natural beauty. Visitors can interact with elephants at the Elephant Sanctuary, take guided game drives, hikes and quad bike tours, and enjoy canoeing and mountain biking activities. The reserve's Sunset Lapa is a dreamy spot to sip on cocktails while admiring the stunning view, and the Emthombeni Restaurant serves a variety of South African
cuisine. The accommodation is of a high standard and the venue is extremely popular for weddings. Inkwenkwezi is a short drive northeast of the East London airport, making it an easily accessible destination in a region notorious for bad roads.
Website: http://www.inkwenkwezi.com
Port St Johns Transkei
Port St Johns is a good travel base in the Transkei region and is the central tourism hub on the Wild Coast. The destination has lovely beaches, great surfing opportunities, fantastic fishing (deep sea and shore angling), and some fun and atmospheric backpackers lodges for budget travellers. A town of about 7,000 people, Port St Johns is situated at the mouth of the Umzimvubu River. The estuary is one of the main reasons why this stretch of coast is so picturesque. Sadly, it's also a contributing factor to the frequency of shark attacks on the town's beaches, making swimming and surfing a bit nerve-racking despite the idyllic conditions. The Umzimvubu River flows through an impressive sandstone gorge named the Gates of St John and visitors should make the effort to drive up to Mount Thesiger. Located just above the town, it offers stunning views of the estuary. Some of the backpackers and lodges offer the ride up for sundowners free of charge.
Dense, jungle-like vegetation dotted with scenic walking trails surround the town, which is endearingly laid back and sleepy. Visitors will find a Xhosa flavour and some basic shops and bohemian-style restaurants.
Shark Diving
Diving with great white sharks is the experience of a lifetime. Numerous tour operators run cage diving trips around Gansbaai (two hours from Cape Town), where the open stretch of water between Dyer Island and the mainland is referred to as the shark diving capital of the world.
Boat trips aim to educate people about the great white shark, and to provide an up close and personal encounter from within the safety of a cage lowered into the water. People can also watch and photograph sharks feeding at the surface alongside the boat.
Those brave enough can then take turns inside the cage, which is let down about three feet (1m) below the surface of the water. Great white sharks are in Gansbaai all year round, but the highest densities occur during the winter months from May to October.
The jury is out over the conservational impact of shark cage diving and whether the practice increases the likelihood of shark attacks due to the association of food with people. Travellers wanting to try out this exhilarating activity should be careful to do so with a well-known tour operator with plenty of experience.
Game Safaris
One of the biggest draws of visiting South Africa is the opportunity to go on safari. In fact, the world's image of the country almost always revolves around the famous Big Five (elephant, rhino, lion, leopard, and buffalo) set against the backdrop of a vast, diverse, and beautiful wilderness.
Numerous game parks are scattered throughout South Africa. However, it is the oldest, largest, and most well-known wildlife conservation area, the Kruger National Park, which proves to be the destination of choice for most international visitors.
Big Five viewing opportunities abound in many of the parks, and many private game reserves have the added attraction of being malaria-free, unlike the Kruger. There are many incredible creatures to seek out, apart from the Big Five.
These animals include wild dogs, hyenas, cheetahs, baboons, numerous antelope species, warthogs, giraffes, zebras, hippos, crocodiles, ostriches, and monkeys, not to mention a wealth of birdlife. Parks offer guided walking tours, jeep safaris, and night drives, as well as self-drive safaris for those with their own vehicles.
The parks have a variety of accommodation options, including world-class luxury game lodges and budget camp sites. Game viewing is possible year-round but many consider winter (June to August) the best season for safaris, as the animals tend to be easier to spot when the bush is less lush and dense.
Whale Watching
Every year from July to November, whales arrive along the southern coast of South Africa. The gentle giants travel thousands of miles to calve in the warm waters of protected bays, with some high vantage points serving as perfect locations for spying the enormous creatures.
The heart of the Whale Coast is Hermanus, renowned as the best whale watching area in the country. Here, southern right whales inhabit Walker Bay, often within 33 feet (10m) of the shore. According to the Word Wildlife Fund, Walker Bay is one of the top 12 whale viewing destinations in the world.
The Whale Coast stretches from the Western Cape, up the east coast, including spots along the Garden Route such as Mossel Bay, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, and the Tsitsikamma National Park coastline.
The De Hoop Nature and Marine Reserve is also popular during season for its Whale Trail: a five-day hiking excursion that offers fantastic whale-viewing opportunities along its coastal stretch. Companies offer boat trips too, giving animal lovers incredible close up experiences with these fantastic beasts.
Wine Tasting
The Western Cape produces some of the finest wines in the world. Visitors to the many historic estates can meet the winemakers and order wines shipped home at discounted rates. They can also enjoy cheeses, olives and fine food in the beautiful countryside.
The main wine producing regions of South Africa are nestled together in this region, and most are accessible from Cape Town on a day trip. A key route is the R62, which covers world-renowned farms in Stellenbosch, Robertson, Franschoek, and Paarl.
Groot Constantia and Boschendal serve as some of the oldest and most picturesque vineyards in the country. The former is a quick drive from the centre of Cape Town, while the latter is in the heart of Stellenbosch. Both are highly acclaimed.
Nederberg in Paarl is one of South Africa's leading and most decorated wineries, winning numerous domestic and international awards. However, the still young Kleine Zalze in Stellenbosch is hot on its heels.
The Swartland, Overberg, and Botrivier regions are all known for their distinctive Cabernet Sauvignon and spicy Shiraz, while the south coastal region is renowned for its crisp, dry Sauvignon Blanc due to the Atlantic sea breeze.
Outside of the Cape, the eastern KwaZulu-Natal coast is new to the wine scene but is showing signs of promise. Some wonderful varietals come from the Orange River valley, where the river creates a cool microclimate that favours white wines.
Golf
While South African golf courses don't boast the history and prestige of their overseas counterparts, they are extraordinarily beautiful and unique. Indeed, combining big game viewing with the romance of the fairway makes for legendary rounds, immortalised in the memory.
Many golf tour operators and safari operators focus on combining these two industries to craft a genuinely moving and surreal experience. It seems only fitting that the first course mentioned, Skukuza, is found in the country's best nature reserve, the Kruger National Park.
Wildlife such as giraffe and wildebeest grace the landscape at the country's elite course, Leopard's Creek, which is also in national territory. The most scenic course, Cathedral Parks, wraps around lush and rugged African landscape.
Apart from the allure of the wild, other highlights for those golfing in South Africa include the warm weather, relatively cheap green fees, and the technical merits of the courses. Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban all have great courses with ocean vistas and sweeping mountains.
Cape Town visitors can mix golf vacations with other tourist attractions, such as famous beaches, nightlife, and nearby wine estates. A Jack Nicklaus signature course is playable nearby at Pearl Valley, while in Johannesburg, it is certainly worth travelling to Sun City and teeing off at the Gary Player Golf Course, designed by its namesake.
The spectacular Garden Route makes for perhaps the best golf trips in South Africa. Already blooming with lush natural wonders, it harbours some memorable courses such as Fancourt, Arabella, Pearl Valley and Erinvale.
Surfing
South Africa offers world-class surfing opportunities, with two oceans (Atlantic and Indian) delivering grinding swells along the coast. This extends all the way from the Namibian border on the arid west coast to the Mozambique border at the far northern corner of the sub-tropical east coast.
Surfers should pack 4mm wetsuits for the west coast, and 3mm wetsuits for the south and southeast coastlines. A shorty will suffice for the winter months along the Kwazulu-Natal coastline, as the waters of the Indian Ocean are generally quite warm.
The West Coast extends from Cape Town up to the Namibian border and receives reasonably consistent Atlantic swells. The cold Benguela current dominates and it is common for surfers to wear a hoody and booties, particularly in the summer months when upwelling can bring surface water temperatures down to 53ºF (12ºC).
Surfing spots abound in the vicinity of Cape Town and crowding is usually not a big factor. Key breaks include Llandudno, Noordhoek, Long Beach, Outer Kom, Kalk Bay, and Muizenberg. Muizenberg in particular is a tame wave, perfect for beginners.
There are a number of surf schools located in Muizenberg and many amateurs and intermediate surfers frequent them. About three hour's drive up the west coast is Elands Bay, with its classic left-hand point break as well as some other good beach breaks in the vicinity.
The Garden Route is blessed with great right-hand point breaks and warmer water than the west coast, due to the temperate Agulhus current flowing through the Indian Ocean. Surfing highlights dotted along this stretch of coast include Stilbaai, Mossel Bay, Victoria Bay, Cape St Francis and the famous Jeffrey's Bay (J-Bay). Together, they provide the perfect excuse for a road trip.
They all have right-hand point break setups and are best visited in the winter months, when swells are more consistent and winds are more often offshore. Jeffrey's Bay is often regarded as the best right-hand breaking wave in the world, although surfers may well encounter crowding and fierce locals - of both the human and fish variety.
The Wild Coast was known as the Transkei during the apartheid era, and extends from East London to the southern border of Kwazulu-Natal. As the name implies, the area is largely undeveloped and road access to the coast is generally poor.
There are some epic and well-known right-hand point setups such as Coffee Bay and Ndumbe, but generally many of the spots are kept under wraps as secret reef and beach breaks for those willing to explore the region.
The epicentre of the South African surfing industry is located in Durban, on the sub-tropical east coast. The area is bathed by the warm waters of the Mozambican current, meaning visitors can ditch their wetsuits. Surfers should expect crowds, though.
Good beach breaks in the Durban area include New Pier and North Beach, while heavy reef breaks such as Cave Rock will test even the most experienced surfers in an area known as the Bluff. Further north, Umhlanga Rocks, Ballito and Richards Bay are all blessed with consistent waves in the winter months.
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A week ago, South Africa celebrated the arrival of its first international flight in six months. Which airlines are now flying back to the African nation? And which others have stalled due to recent developments?
The Flight Centre Travel Group says that while the gradual reopening of South Africa’s borders from 1 October is a welcome announcement, travel is set to become much more complex in the months to come.
What about “Airline Airlines”? That one’s not taken, is it? A brand new airline based in South Africa is looking for a name, and they’re willing to reward whomever submits the winning idea with a year’s worth of free travel.
In a time when many travel companies struggle to stay afloat, South Africa is set to debut a new airline that will offer domestic flights starting this winter. There’s only one thing missing for the big launch: a name for the new carrier. Instead of seeking the advice of business professionals, the airline has turned to the public, launching a competition to find the best name.
During the spring and summer of 1883, the volcano on the South Pacific island of Krakatoa had been particularly active. In August of that year, however, the eruptions intensified, and on August 24th they began to occur every 10 minutes. On August 27th, the volcano erupted with a series of four explosions that, by most calculations, created the single loudest noise in recorded history. Tsunamis followed each explosion, with tidal changes noted as far away as South Africa and the English Channel. Roughly 3,500 miles away in Perth, Australia, people heard the explosions. The pressure wave traveled around the earth as many as seven times. Several small villages in the area, one at least 25 miles away on Sumatra, were completely devastated with no survivors by pyroclastic gases. The island of Krakatoa was diminished to a fraction of its pre-eruption size.
South Africa’s new national airline could launch as early as January 2021, the Sunday Times reports. The government is working with private sector investors for a restructured South African Airways (SAA) – and has received “more than 10 unsolicited offers” to partner with the airline, the paper said.
The announcement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on Sunday that South Africa would be instituting Level 2 of the National Lockdown on Tuesday, August 18 , with new regulations is welcome news for many industries which have been crippled by the lockdown regulations limiting their operations.
Though luxury hotel openings have slowed to a trickle this year, there are still a few exciting new properties opening their doors to guests in 2020. Among these is the stunning Kruger Shalati: The Train on the Bridge, now under development in South Africa.
South Africa has been nominated the most sought-after destination through Tourlane's recent survey, which analysed aspirations of travel communities across the globe as travel restrictions steadily begin to ease off.
South Africa announced it will not reopen for international tourism until February 2021. Domestic tourists will be able to move around the country in December.
The fight continues to save struggling national carrier South African Airways. In May, the team of administrators overseeing the airline’s finances was given 25 days to come up with a plan to save the business. Today, a draft proposal has been announced, which includes a 21 billion rand
The administrators running South Africa’s embattled national airline proposed the government provide a 21 billion rand ($1.2 billion) bailout to help repay debt and resume operations after the lifting of Covid-19 travel bans.
A team of conservationists who were trying to save endangered seabirds from giant mice on one of the world's most remote islands have been rescued by the UK military after becoming stranded due to the coronavirus pandemic. A group of 12 researchers from the UK arrived on Gough Island, which is located midway between South America and South Africa, at the end of February to begin a
Ernest White II grew up in Jacksonville, Fla., dreaming of a job that would propel him around the world. He taught English in Colombia, Brazil and Miami, and worked as a freelance journalist in Berlin, South Africa and the Dominican Republic. Now he’s added “travel TV show host” to his résumé. “Fly Brother With Ernest White II,” which began airing last week on various PBS stations, is an entertaining
Fort Lauderdale,FL (April 15, 2020)–South African Airways (SAA), repatriated over 300 South African citizens on April 14, 2020 aboard a specially planned charter flight from the Miami International Airport (MIA) to South Africa. This flight, chartered by Workaway International, operated with SAA’s new state-of
Fort Lauderdale, FL (March 30, 2020) – South African Airways (SAA) has announced that after careful consideration and to comply with South Africa’s national 21-day lock-down to contain the spread of COVID-19, the decision has been taken to temporarily suspend all commercial operations at the SAA
Africa is inching toward a shutdown of its sea, land and air borders. A majority of its 54 nations have banned flights from countries with at least 100 coronavirus cases or temporarily closed their domestic and international airports. Most sea ports still allow cargo vessels, but passengers and crews from cruise ships are barred. Key regional carriers such as South African Airways, Royal Air
JOHANNESBURG, 20 March 2020 –South African Airways (SAA) has announced that it will immediately suspend all international operations until 31 May 2020 in response to a government travel ban aimed at stopping the transmission of the Coronavirus (Covid-19). The COVID-19 pandemic and attendant travel
MSC Cruises is stopping all of its cruise operations until the end of April. The line has already ceased all U.S., South America and South Africa sailings, as well as ship operations across other areas considered high risk, including in Asia, the Mediterranean and the Middle East. Ships that are currently still at sea will conclude their current itinerary to return guests to disembarkation ports, then also stop their
JOHANNESBURG, March 13, 2020 - Given the uncertainty surrounding the COVID-19 coronavirus pandemic, South African Airways (SAA) is offering customers flexible travel options with one free change in reservations on selected international routes to be used for travel on or before September 30, 2020. SAA will allow one free
In a sweeping set of measures Sunday, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa said visas of citizens from high-risk countries, including the United States, have been revoked to contain the coronavirus epidemic. Although South Africa has seen only 61 cases of the coronavirus, and no deaths so far, according to officials, this visa shutdown appeared to be aimed at work visas. U.S. citizens may enter the African country for 90
Fort Lauderdale, FL (March 9, 2020) - South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, has announced a no single supplement offer on the popular “Stunning South Africa” air-inclusive vacation package. Starting from $4,399* (restrictions
Fort Lauderdale, FL (March 2, 2020) - South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, is offering a discount of 50% for children under age 18 on its popular “Best of South Africa” air-inclusive package. Starting from $4,999* (restrictions apply) person and $2,499* (restrictions apply)
Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 25, 2020) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa and a Skytrax 4-Star rated airline, is offering special fares from Washington Dulles to South Africa in our award-winning Premium Business Class Cabin. Round-trip Business Class fares start from $3,959*
Luxury and amazing wildlife adventures don’t have to come at the expense of sustainability. An increasing number of African lodges has started to prioritize earth-friendly practices as much as they do show-stopping safaris. Here are some of Africa’s best sustainable lodges. The epitome of luxurious sustainability, this reserve is located in the eastern area of South Africa in the rugged and breathtaking KwaZulu-Natal
Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 11, 2020) – Just in time to give the perfect Valentine’s Day gift, South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, has introduced a 6- night air-inclusive “South Africa Sweetheart” vacation package. Starting from $2,599* (restrictions apply) per
Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 10, 2020) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa and a Skytrax 4-Star rated airline, is offering special fares just in time to give the gift of South Africa to someone special this Valentine’s Day. Round-trip Economy Class fares start from $829* (restrictions apply)
JOHANNESBURG, 8 February 2020 - South African Airways (SAA) was honoured to bring Miss Universe 2019, Zozibini Tunzi back home aboard its brand new Airbus A350-900 from New York and arrived in Johannesburg on Saturday, February 8th. Her sparkling presence aboard South African Airways Flight #204 added
6 February 2020 – The joint Business Rescue Practitioners (BRPs) of South African Airways (SAA) today announced further initiatives to support the airline’s transformation into a sustainable and profitable business.
The BRPs, Les Matuson and Siviwe Dongwana, have worked closely with key stakeholders including industry
Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 4, 2020) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa and a Skytrax 4-Star rated airline, is offering special travel trade fares in both Premium Business and Economy Class to travel advisors and travel industry professionals that are planning to attend the numerous tourism
Ethiopian Airlines is spending an estimated $5 billion to build the largest airport in Africa. It could also become Africa's busiest airport, capable of handling more passengers than the current busiest hub in Johannesburg, South Africa. In an interview with the Ethiopian News Agency (ENA), Ethiopian Airlines CEO Tewolde Gebremariam said that the airline completed its 2025 goals seven years ahead of schedule
The business rescue practitioners of South African Airways SOC Ltd (the Practitioners), supported by the Departments of Public Enterprises (DPE) and National Treasury (NT), have been successful in obtaining the balance of the post commencement funding (PCF) required to meet the short term liquidity requirements of
Fort Lauderdale, FL (January 27, 2020) – South African Airways (SAA), Africa’s Skytrax 4-Star airline, is celebrating the introduction of its new Airbus A350-900 now flying between New York-JFK and Johannesburg by offering a low fare of $350.00* each way (based on a roundtrip purchase). This fare is applicable for travel
If you thought all there was to the continent of Africa was the poor and downtrodden clips you’ve seen on the news or in movies, you couldn’t be more wrong. From Morocco to South Africa, Mama Africa is filled with beauty and luxury that can rival any Caribbean or European
Fort Lauderdale, FL (January 21, 2020) – South African Airways (SAA), a Skytrax 4-Star rated carrier, has introduced the most technology-advanced aircraft available for international ultra-long-haul travel with
A financial crisis at South African Airways deepened Tuesday as a funding squeeze forced the national carrier to cancel several domestic and international flights. Eight flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town will be cut this week, and 20 between Johannesburg and
Thinking about going on safari in 2020? The first step in planning can be the most daunting since there are so many options to choose from. Once you narrow down the country, there are still a variety of regions, terrains and accommodations to choose from. Price points are equally
JOHANNESBURG, 7 January 2020 - South African Airways (SAA) has been named as one of the top performing airlines globally for on-time performance (OTP) by travel data and analytics company, Cirium. SAA was ranked fourth in the category for Middle East and Africa mainline carriers, ahead of some of its major competitors
Despite its tumultuous history, South Africa is a nation that continues to fascinate travelers the world over. From powdery sand beaches and epic safaris to a stunning wine country, dramatic landscapes and diverse culture, there’s no shortage of reasons why explorers should book a flight to the mesmerizing nation. The city of Johannesburg is best known for its cool urban vibes and the
Fort Lauderdale, FL (December 12, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), a Skytrax 4-star rated airline, has been selected by the readers of Global Traveler as the “Best Airline in Africa” for the 16th consecutive year in the magazine’s annual reader survey. Global Traveler presented the award to SAA at a ceremony
Fort Lauderdale, FL (December 4, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA) is honored to be named “Best Airline in Africa” and “Best Business Class to Africa” in the annual 2019 Best in Business Travel Awards survey by readers of Business Traveler Magazine. The Best in Business Travel Awards distinguishes the
On December 3, 1967, Dr. Christiaan Barnard performed the first human heart transplant. Operating on a 54-year-old patient, Barnard performed the procedure in his native South Africa. The patient, Louis Washkansky, received the heart from a woman killed the day before in an auto accident. Washkansky survived for only 18
Located just north of downtown Johannesburg, Sandton stands apart as a quaint and idyllic neighborhood–a serene respite from the hustle-bustle of its surrounding city. Here you’ll find some of the area’s best bars, its most acclaimed chefs, and its most luxurious lodges. As such, it remains one of the most appealing destinations for visitors in search of South African charm while touring Jozi. Arrive in
As a two-day strike begins at South African Airways (SAA), 40,000 passengers have had their travel plans wrecked. Members of the South African Cabin Crew Association and the National Union of Metalworkers of South Africa are taking industrial action in a dispute over pay and conditions. SAA has told passengers not to turn up at airports in South Africa and worldwide. Almost all flights have been cancelled
When it comes to travel to the continent, one destination that’s always at the top of visitors’ list is South Africa. The iconic country has a distinct place in history and is home to transformational leaders like former South African President and anti-apartheid revolutionary, Nelson Mandela. The city of Johannesburg is best known for its cool urban vibes, but if you want to experience a more picturesque side
Fort Lauderdale, FL (November 5, 2019) - South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, is offering a discount of up to $800 per person on its popular “Stunning South Africa” air-inclusive package. Starting from $4,399* (restrictions apply)
Fort Lauderdale, FL (October 10, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), Africa’s most awarded airline, and TravPRO Mobile, a leader in mLearning and sales enablement platforms, announce the launch of AfricaPRO, a new B2B online educational training platform for the travel trade in North America
Fort Lauderdale, FL (October 3, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa and Air Seychelles, the national airline of the Republic of Seychelle, announced today a new code share agreement for customers traveling between New York and Seychelles. Air Seychelles will add its "HM"
Fort Lauderdale, FL (October 2, 2019) - South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, is offering a $300 discount per person on its popular the "Best of South Africa air-inclusive package. Starting from $4,199* (restrictions apply), travel from New York-JFK or
Fort Lauderdale, FL (September 9, 2019) South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, has launched its 2020 Collection brochure, featuring a portfolio of affordable air-inclusive vacation packages to a variety of destinations throughout Africa. All SAA Vacations®
Over the years here at Forbes I have written a lot about African wildlife safaris and I why I think this category of trips sits atop the entire Bucket List for just about every kind of traveler of every taste. You can read my most recent rationale for why if you have not been on safari, or don’t think you would like a safari, you are badly mistaken. In the course of my work for various magazines, newspapers and websites, including Forbes, I have had the privilege of visiting Africa many times, and I’ve had the pleasure of staying
Fort Lauderdale, FL (August 19, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa announces the appointment of Ms. Danielle Manegio as Director, Sales Development for the Northeast Region of the United States, effective August 19, 2019. She will be based in New York
Forget tofu or soy milk. Entrepreneurs out of South Africa have opened a pop-up restaurant dedicated to serving gourmet meals, all made from alternative, insect-based ingredients. The Insect Experience opened in Cape Town last month and has been successfully serving
Fort Lauderdale, FL (August 8, 2019) - South African Airways (SAA), Africa's most awarded airline, will increase its frequency on nonstop flights between Washington, D.C.-Dulles International Airport and
Fort Lauderdale, FL (August 7, 2019) - South African Airways (SAA) has been named "Favorite Airline in Africa" for the fifth consecutive year at the annual The Trazees awards. The award was presented to South
Fort Lauderdale, FL (August 05, 2019) - South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa announces the appointment of Mr. Frank Fitzpatrick as Director, Sales Development for the Mid-Atlantic
Fort Lauderdale, FL (July 29, 2019) – South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, is offering an amazing air-inclusive experience in the beautiful city of Cape Town. Starting at just $1,799* per person (restrictions apply), travel
Fort Lauderdale, FL (July 24, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa announces the appointment of Mr. Umar Chaudhry as Director, Sales Development for the Western Region of the United States, effective July 22, 2019. Umar brings to South African Airways
Fort Lauderdale, FL (July 18, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), the flagship carrier of South Africa, commemorated Nelson Mandela International Day with its employees at the North America Regional Office in Fort Lauderdale participating in an outreach program by collecting donations to
Fort Lauderdale, FL (July, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), a Skytrax 4-Star rated carrier, will introduce the most technology-advanced aircraft available for ultra-long-haul flying with the new Airbus A350-900 on nonstop flights between New York John F. Kennedy International Airport and
Fort Lauderdale, FL (June 24, 2019) – For travelers still waiting to make their summer vacations plans, South African Airways (SAA) announces the perfect getaway with special low fares to South Africa starting from $1499* roundtrip. SAA's Summer Savings to Africa
Fort Lauderdale, FL (Jun. 20, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa, was honored with the "Best Airline Staff in Africa" award by world renowned aviation experts Skytrax™. This award recognizes service excellence across the entire spectrum of front
Fort Lauderdale, FL (June 18, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa, and South Africa-based event organizer, On Show Solutions, announce the 2019 dates and locations for the Africa Showcase in North America. This
Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 30, 2019) - South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa and Alaska Airlines, the fifth largest airline in the United States, announced today that they have established a new interline partnership, which provides new and convenient flight
Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 21, 2019) - South African Airways (SAA), announces amazing savings to Africa with new low fare starting from $699* roundtrip (restrictions apply) and to Cape Town from $765* roundtrip (restrictions apply). Travel on these sale fares is applicable between
Fort Lauderdale, FL (April 26, 2019) - South African Airways (SAA), Africa's most award airline, was honored with the "Corporate Leadership" award at the 25th Shared Interest Anniversary Fala held in New York City on April 25. Shared Interest is a non-profit social investment fund that mobilizes the resources for Southern Africa's economically disenfranchised communities to sustain themselves and
The main highway between Johannesburg and Cape Town takes travelers through the Great Karoo, a vast desert of reddish-brown earth speckled with scrub vegetation and seemingly populated by nothing more than a loping springbok or two. Few overseas visitors venture off the road. Yet a 20-mile byway leads miragelike to an oasis of sorts, a dusty
Starting today, South African Airways (SAA), Africa’s most awarded airline, has increased its frequency on nonstop flights between Washington, D.C.-Dulles International Airport and Accra’s Kotoka International Airport to five days weekly.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (March 6, 2019) – South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, offering air-inclusive packages throughout Africa, is announcing the launch of their new website www.flysaavacations.com. The completely
One of South Africa’s reigning media stars—and globe-trotters—is 31-year-old Bonang Matheba. Affectionately called Queen B by her fans, Matheba broke out when she started hosting the popular music show LIVE in 2007. She went on to become an entrepreneur and a star of her own reality series, Being Bonang, on the 1Magic channel, which earned her a spot on the
Whether it is marble palaces or rustic treetop lodges, there is something for everyone. "We have searched high and low for the hotels and resorts that go the extra mile for couples. Whether it's a naturally romantic setting or special little touches, these hotels are utterly charming," it said in a statement. South Africa shined in the Top 50 list. Among those that made the
Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 11, 2019) – Just in time for the most romantic day of the year, South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, has introduced a 6-night air-inclusive "South Africa Sweetheart on Sale" vacation package. Starting at
Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 6, 2019) - South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa is offering special travel fares in both Premium Business and Economy Class to our travel partners and industry colleagues that are planning to attend the International Luxury Travel
After bumping and juddering down a dirt track for five minutes, we arrive at a round, Pepto-Bismol-pink house. A small board hanging from the wire fence announces “Kwa Nokrimesi Homestay”. It’s the only sign that we are in the right place: the village where Nelson Mandela is buried. Plump chickens scurry out of neat rows of vegetables to greet us, followed by a
Fort Lauderdale, FL (February 1, 2019) – February is the month to express our love, so South African Airways (SAA), a Skytrax 4-Star airline, announces a sweetheart of a deal with new low fares starting from $799* roundtrip to South Africa just in time for Valentine’s Day. Low fares are
Ever wondered which holiday destination enjoys the most traffic on social media? International travel agent Big 7 Travel researched destination trends on Instagram and has now released a list of the countries of which people share the most pics on Instagram. South Africa boasts in fifth place on the list, with awesome pictures that
The week between Christmas and New Years is one of the busiest travel weeks of the year—especially for the jet-setting celebrity crowd. They flocked to the sun, the snow, and in case of Karlie Kloss and Joshua Kushner, the South African savannah. “Found my tribe,” Kloss joked in her caption of a photo of giraffes.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (January 2, 2019) – South African Airways (SAA), Africa’s most awarded airline, will increase its frequency on nonstop flights between Washington, D.C.-Dulles International Airport and Accra’s Kotoka International Airport to five days weekly starting April 2, 2019. SAA offers the only nonstop flight between Washington D.C. and Ghana and offers travelers convenient connections to / from over 100 cities across the U.S. and Canada through its Star Alliance partner, United Airlines via Washington, D.C.-Dulles.
Keeping up with global trends is hugely important for South African companies involved in the tourism industry. If we want to encourage more foreigners to visit our shores, we have to listen to what they want. That’s why I attended the World Travel Market trade event in London in November this year.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (December 4, 2018) – South African Airways (SAA), a Skytrax 4-Star rated
airline for 16 consecutive years, has been honored by Business Traveler magazine’s readers as “Best
Business Class to Africa” and “Best Airline in Africa” in the magazine’s annual survey. This year marks the
10th consecutive year that SAA has been selected as “Best Airline in Africa” and the 9th consecutive year
as “Best Business Class to Africa” by the publication’s readers. Business Traveler is one of the leading
publications for the frequent global business travelers.
On December 3, 1967, Dr. Christiaan Barnard performed the first human heart transplant. Operating on a 54 year old patient, Barnard performed the procedure in his native South Africa. The patient, Louis Washkansky, received the heart from a woman killed the day before
At least once a year, Andrea Oschetti finds himself soaking in the view from Table Mountain, driving along Chapman’s Peak and marvelling at Cape Town’s natural beauty and unbeatable easy-going vibes. Cape Town is his gateway to the safaris of South Africa and, as he puts it, “a city that improves with every visit” — the telltale sign of a worthy
Fort Lauderdale, FL (October 8, 2018) – South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, has introduced a 6-night air-inclusive “South Africa on Sale” vacation package that offers travelers the opportunity to visit Cape Town and experience an African safari starting at just $2,299* per person with
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, launched its 2019Collection brochure, featuring aportfolio of affordable air-inclusive vacation packages to a variety of destinations throughout Africa..
Fort Lauderdale, FL (August 28, 2018) – South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, has announced complimentary luxury upgrades to five-star accommodations in Cape Town and in the Karongwe Private Game Reserve for travelers who book the “Best of South Africa”
In a world so unpredictable, we reassure ourselves with the knowledge that there will always remain a few enduring certainties: The Earth revolves around the sun. Toothpaste, once unfurled, can never return to its tube. The better a restaurant’s view, the more mediocre its food. The only things Drake loves are his bed and his mama. And if you visit
Fort Lauderdale, FL (August 15, 2018) – Trazee Travel, a unique interactive web-based publication for millennial travelers has named South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa as the “Favorite Airline in Africa” for the fourth consecutive year. South African Airways was honored with the accolade at the annual The Trazee awards event hosted by Global Traveler
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations ®), the leisure vacation division of South African Airways, adds 12 new hotel and safari lodge operators throughout popular destinations in Southern and Eastern Africa. The expanded portfolio includes five star properties in the coastal cities of Cape
Cruise lines are constantly tweaking their schedules. Sometimes it's just the addition of a single port to a long-established itinerary. Other times it's the rollout of an all-new route. Here, some of the more notable new itinerary announcements from recent weeks. Azamara Club Cruises will offer South Africa voyages in 2020 — a first for the line. The upscale cruise operator plans four 10-night
When it came to selecting the top safari lodges in Africa, properties in South Africa, Zambia, and Tanzania rose to the top. And who could blame our readers? Home to top wildlife-viewing sites like Kruger National Park, South Luangwa National Park, and the UNESCO-protected Ngorongoro Conservation Area, these countries offer travelers the chance to see lions and leopards on the prowl, thousands
Fort Lauderdale, FL (July 18, 2018) – South African Airways (SAA), the leading airline from the U.S. to South Africa with the most daily flights, was honored with the “Best Airline Staff in Africa” award at the 2018 World Airline Awards hosted by world renowned aviation experts Skytrax™. The award presented at a special ceremony held at the Farnborough International Airshow attributed South African Airways’
Earlier this year, a passenger was standing on the jet bridge, moments from boarding his South African Airways flight, when an obstacle appeared in the shape of a Customs and Border Protection officer. During the random search at Washington Dulles International Airport, the law enforcer asked the man how much money he was carrying. He responded $500, normally not an amount an officer would question, except in one instance — when it’s a lie.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (June 4, 2018) – South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, has introduced a 5-night “Cape Town & Winelands Super Saver” air-inclusive vacation package that brings unprecedented savings of up to $1000 per person for travel from New York to Cape Town this summer. The “Cape Town & Winelands Super Saver” includes air transportation from New York-JFK Airport on South African Airways
Barcelona-based online travel agency Exoticca — which sells “affordable luxury” holidays to popular destinations such as India, Kenya, Brazil, Thailand and South Africa — has closed a €3.5 million (~$4.1 million) Series A to expand into more markets.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 30, 2018) – South African Airways (SAA), the leading carrier from New York to South Africa with the only nonstop daily flight, offers “Sizzling Summer Savings” featuring the hottest fares of the summer for travel from New York (JFK) to Johannesburg, Cape Town, or Durban, South Africa. The fares start from $1,099* roundtrip (restrictions apply) and are available for purchase through June 06, 2018 for travel from June 1 to August 10, 2018.
To put it in perspective: In 2001, Botswana had exactly zero rhino left, which forced the government to get serious about passing legislature to combat and protect its wildlife. Since then, they've made poaching punishable by death, and are the only country in Africa to deploy the national military to make sure poachers stay out of the reserves (South Africa and Zambia still rely on private donation). Last year, Prince Harry lent the cause some dazzle when he became patron of Botswana's Rhino Conservancy, and today, at least 200 rhino have been repopulated to the Okavango Delta due to private-public partnerships.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (May 03, 2018) – South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, introduces a new package to celebrate the centennial year of Nelson Mandela’s birth. The 8-night air-inclusive “Celebrating Mandela’s 100th” package priced at $2,499* (restrictions apply), will take travelers in the footsteps of the new South Africa’s founding father, visiting places where key moments of the struggle for freedom took place.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (April 23, 2018) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa, has maintained a Skytrax™ 4-Star rating, in both Business and Economy Class, for a 16th consecutive year. The Skytrax™ rating signifies that South African Airways’ product and service standards on long-haul, regional and domestic flights continue to perform at the high standard that meets 4-Star levels.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (April 18, 2018) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa, has reappointed DSA Vacations to manage and operate South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the airline’s branded vacation package program for the North America market. The three-year term of the agreement is effective January 1, 2019, through December 31, 2021. Since its inception in 2006, SAA Vacations has grown to become one of the largest tour operators selling a wide range of air-inclusive affordable luxury vacation packages to popular tourist destinations throughout Africa.
Fort Lauderdale, FL (April 16, 2018) - South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways offers affordable air-inclusive packages to destinations in West Africa. Immerse in the rich culture, history, and beauty of Ghana or Senegal with one of SAA Vacations™ air-inclusive packages starting at $2999* (restrictions apply).
Fort Lauderdale, FL (April 02, 2018) – South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa, and South Africa-based event organizer, On Show Solutions, announce the 2018 dates and locations for the Africa Showcase in North America.
South African Airways (SAA), Africa’s most awarded airline, has announced the appointment of Marlene Sanau as the new vice president of sales, North America, based at the airline’s North America Regional Office in Fort Lauderdale. In this role, she will be responsible for implementing sales strategies to strengthen and grow business relationships with SAA’s travel trade partners, online travel agency distribution channels, corporate customers, and key tourism industry organizations.
South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa is pleased to offer special travel trade fares to our travel partners and industry colleagues that are planning to attend the International Luxury Travel Market
Beneath the grit of South Africa's biggest city, there's a kinetic urban energy that can be savored in its street art, restaurants, music clubs and markets
Just in time to celebrate Valentine’s Day, South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways is offering a 5-night air-inclusive experience in the beautiful city of Cape Town
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), the leisure division of South African Airways, kicks off the New Year with savings on all of their air-inclusive
vacation packages
South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline has been selected by the readers of Global Traveler in the U.S. as the “Best Airline to Africa” for the 14th consecutive year in their annual reader survey
Two black musicians claim they were kicked off a British Airways-branded flight in South Africa to make way for a white woman. After they objected to being moved, they say, the captain ordered them to leave the aircraft
South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline is proud to be the recipient of two of Business Traveler Magazine’s prestigious Best in Business Travel Awards for 2017
Owned by South African billionaire Douw Steyn, the property is designed as a luxurious take on the African bush: carefully controlled populations of Big Five animals roam the reserve; comfortable and spacious guest bandas sit nestled alongside a bubbling natural stream; and long days of game drives are capped off with sundowner cruises on the largest man-made lake in southern Africa
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®), a division of South African Airways, the national airline of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline, is offering, savings of $500 per person for an air-inclusive vacation to Cape Town and the surrounding Cape Winelands
South African Airways (SAA), Africa’s most awarded airline, has announced special sale fares to South Africa at prices as low as $829* (restrictions apply) round-trip for travel from New York-JFK International Airport or Washington, DC-Dulles International Airport
South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline, has extended its special group booking promotion of offering one free tour conductor ticket* (restrictions apply) for every 10 group passengers traveling on SAA
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®) launches its 2018 Collection brochure, featuring an expanded portfolio of affordable air-inclusive vacation packages to a variety of destinations throughout Southern and East Africa
South African Airways (SAA), the national flag carrier of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline, has launched the “See the Beauty of Africa for Less” sale, with low fares from the U.S. to Johannesburg
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations ®), the leisure vacation division of South African Airways, has introduced an array of 15 new hotels and safari lodges, nearly doubling their product offering to some of the most popular destinations throughout Africa
Andrew Wilkinson, 39, of London, boarded a British Airways plane in Heathrow to visit his parents in Cape Town, South Africa — and immediately noticed a wet patch on his seat, The Sun reported
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®) has introduced special savings on two vacation packages for travelers to explore the breath-taking scenery of Cape Town and experience the thrill of an African safari to view the Big Five wildlife
A South African tourist was hospitalised in Amsterdam after she was pushed down a flight of stairs in Amsterdam by her Airbnb host. She was checking out of her Airbnb late when the host lost his temper and threw her down the stairs
South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline has introduced the new Airbus A330-300 on the Washington DC-Dulles to Accra, Ghana route
South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa, was honored with the “Best Airline Staff in Africa” award at the 2017 World Airline Awards held at the Paris Air Show by British aviation experts Skytrax™.
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®) is offering an 8-day discover Kilimanjaro and the Masai Mara air-inclusive vacation package starting at just $3750* per person
South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®) has expanded their portfolio of air-inclusive vacation packages with the introduction of new programs to Senegal and Ghana in West Africa. These multi-faceted packages are designed to immerse travelers in the history, culture and traditions of these African countries to provide an enriching travel experience
South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa and Hawaiian Airlines, Hawaii’s largest and longest serving carrier, announced today that they have established a new interline agreement, that provides new and convenient flight options for both SAA and Hawaiian customers traveling between the Hawaiian Islands and Southern Africa
For those that have not made their summer travel plans yet, South African Airways Vacations® (SAA Vacations®) has introduced the perfect package for that upcoming family getaway. The “Family, Culture, and Safari” package is designed to allow families the opportunity to immerse in the rich heritage and culture of South Africa
South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa and a leading airline on the African continent has received the Skytrax™ 4-Star rating for the 15th consecutive year
South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline has introduced its new Airbus A330-300 wide-body aircraft on the three-times weekly route between Washington, DC Dulles International Airport and Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport via Dakar, Senegal. The new A330-300s offer state-of-the-art technology, are very environmentally friendly and SAA customers will enjoy the latest innovations in onboard comfort and amenities
South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline is, once again offering special travel industry fares for upcoming tourism conferences in South Africa
South African Airways (SAA), the national carrier of South Africa and Africa’s most awarded airline is, once again offering special travel industry fares for upcoming tourism conferences in South Africa. The 2017 travel trade fares are being offered from North America for travel industry delegates that are attending the World Travel Market – Africa April 19-21, with International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM-Africa) April 21-23 and We Are Africa May 1-4, all hosted in Cape Town. Indaba, Africa’s premier and longest- running travel show, hosted by South African Tourism, will be held in Durban May 16-18
In celebration of Ghana’s 60th anniversary of independence, South African Airways (SAA), Africa’s most awarded airline, is offering a special sale fare of $679.00* round-trip (restrictions apply) from Washington Dulles International Airport to Accra, Ghana. Travel on this fare is applicable from February 20 to March 30, 2017, to allow travelers to spend the Independence Day holiday period with family and friends in Ghana. Tickets must be purchased by February 10, 2017, so travelers should hurry and book by visiting www.flysaa.com or calling SAA Reservations at 1-(800) 722-9675
From when to go to what to see, here's how to get great photos and unforgettable experiences from a safari outing in South Africa's Kruger National Park
The spectacular port city's collision of cultures and flavours has sparked a riotous cuisine of barbecued meats, diverse seafood, and intriguing vegetarian possibilities. But where best to try it?
There I was, paddling down the Zambezi River in Zambia, surrounded by hungry hippos and crocodiles with a predatory gleam in their yellow-green eyes. This was indeed the majestic Zambezi, home of Victoria Falls, stamping ground of adventurers Henry Stanley and David Livingstone
It's no secret that commercial aviation is not all that great for the environment. And while some airlines are better than others in reducing their carbon footprint, advances in the industry have taken time. Hoping to do their part, South African Airways recently completed a flight using biofuels from nicotine-free, energy-rich "Solaris" tobacco plants cultivated by farmers in South Africa's Limpopo Province, which borders Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique
Cape Town needs no sales pitch. Established as a kitchen garden in 1652 to restock ships en route to India, it still replenishes, with picturesque coves carved into a mountainous peninsula, slopes carpeted in an astonishing floral biodiversity, and vineyards that produce the New World’s most underrated wines
To help guests feel calm and closer to nature, hotels are bringing the outdoors inside. At Ellerman House in Cape Town, South Africa, the hotel’s wine gallery was influenced by the Japanese design principle of katei, which weaves the outdoors into architectural spaces; the gallery looks out at an extensive vertical garden featuring indigenous plants, a koi pond and a landscaped walkway
It's the smell that hits us first as we approach downwind of the offshore rocks: an acrid, noxious, inescapable stench. Undeterred, our boat ventures forward, following a frothy slick being borne from the rocks by the current. As we get closer, a raucous cacophony of braying, barking and bleats comes into earshot. It's a seal colony - our first brush with wildlife on this alternative "Big Five" safari
My first experience of safari, in the mid-90s, was anything but luxurious. It came about via a last minute booking via Teletext. On the three game drives out of the depressing, ring-fenced compound-with-swim-up-pool-bar in Kenya that I was staying at (perpetually surrounded by prostitutes and individuals aggressively hawking anything and everything), I saw very little apart from an awful lot of gift shops. Our vehicle was a clapped-out, closed-in, airless van that repeatedly broke down
The mighty African continent runs from the Sahara and Atlas mountains in the north, to the verdant Garden Route along South Africa's coastline, via the great savannahs of the Maasai Mara, endless peaks and bone-dry desert, untamed jungle and coarsing rivers. Here we pick its best travel experiences
Economic turmoil in South Africa has made something of a basket case of the rand - you currently get twice the ZAR for your pound than you did 10 years ago. In addition, new air connections spell lower fares. Autumn is on the way, so the occasionally punishing temperatures of the Western Cape are on the wane. It's still, however, beach weather, even if the sea is perennially freezing and far friendlier to seals and surfers than swimmers
The second of our guides to alt South Africa looks at tourist haven Cape Town. Musicians, designers and cooks show how it is coming into its own as a multicultural, free-thinking city, with lively streets and stunning open spaces
In recent years, western tourists have also started to realise that Joburg has more to offer than just a well-placed airport with safari and beach transit lounges. Last year, Rough Guides listed Johannesburg as the number one city (in the world) to visit. GQ magazine called it the “cool capital of the southern hemisphere”, edging out Joburg’s scenic rival Cape Town
Along South Africa's southern coast, between the thick forests and dramatic river valleys of the Outeniqua and Tsitsikamma Mountains is a coastal string of lagoons, lakes and holiday towns dedicated to downtime - all connected by the N2 highway
Looking for beauty on a budget? These eco-friendly cabins and huts on the Eastern Cape offer sustainable stays in stunning locations, with easy access to outdoor activities and volunteering opportunities
Describing Moonchild Sanelly’s look with precision is an impossible feat — it’s as if Sailor Moon took an acid trip through the continent of Africa. But it’s distinctly South African: wildly inventive, undeniably original and solidly homegrown
Cape Town has a wide range of affordable places to stay - and with the South African Rand weak in the currency market this is a great time to plan a visit
From Cape Town and its peninsula to the Garden Route and the West Coast, the Western Cape is a dazzling part of South Africa, and its beachside accommodation doesn't have to break the bank
In South Africa - an unfailingly photogenic country - a handful of savvy local photographers and tourism operators have capitalized on the increasingly mainstream popularity of photography and begun offering specialized photographic tours
Mistake fares are back in the news. This time the absurdly low fare came on South African Airways, which sold round-trip business class tickets for just $72 round-trip for the 8-½ journey between Johannesburg
In South Africa, you’re forgiven for sticking to the most iconic experiences — wildlife safaris, wine tastings,Table Mountain, maybe even cage diving with great white sharks -- but there’s so much more
