Tailor-made
South Africa
Holidays

Our South Africa experts are here to help turn your ideas into a unique holiday experience you’ll never forget, all designed with first-hand knowledge, passion and genuine care that your holiday is the very best it can be.

Overview

South Africa is where it all began for us. It's the first country we started designing tailor-made holidays to, and we’ve been sharing our love for it ever since. With world-class safaris, tempting winelands, a rich history, incredible scenery and unmatched coastal road trips, there really is something here for everyone. Our experts have been there, done that, and are brimming with ideas to make your trip unforgettable. You might be tracking leopards at dawn or sipping a Shiraz in Stellenbosch as the sun sets, whatever you get up to, we’ll help you explore South Africa through stories, connections and the things that really matter to you.

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Meet our South Africa experts

We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Catherine, Kirsty and Lisa are dedicated to all things South Africa and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.

Catherine Williams
Catherine Williams
Destination Manager

Catherine fell for Africa in 2000 and has been back countless times ever since. With South Africa being one of her favourite spots, she’s your go-to for everything from self-drives to safaris, hikes and vineyards.

Kirsty Leggate
Kirsty Leggate
Destination Manager

With family living just outside Kruger National Park, Kirsty’s been travelling to South Africa for more than 20 years. From solo trips to family adventures, she knows the country inside out, and always finds new reasons to return.

Lisa Dyboll
Lisa Dyboll
Destination Manager

Our resident South African, our Lisa really has spent a lifetime exploring the country. Especially fond of Kruger, coastal drives and any excuse for a well-earned sundowner with a view, she brings real passion and knowledge to every holiday she plans.

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24 July 2025

Where You're Going This Year

A brand, spanking new year is around the corner. 12 fresh months, 52 weeks, 365 days – all just waiting to be filled with adventures. Travel was well and truly back in 2022 (thank goodness!), and 2023 is set to be bursting with holidays left, right and centre. We’ve been busy designing holidays all over the World, here’s a handy infographic to show where you’re going (so far) over the next 12 months… Have you booked your 2023 holiday yet? If not, now’s the time!   Get inspired…   Wildlife, nature and Pura Vida lifestyle is top of the bill in 2023. Costa Rica is the most popular holiday destination amongst our clients (so far), with 12% of holidays heading to the nature lover’s paradise.   Costa Rica holiday highlights ☑ Visit Arenal , Costa Rica’s adventure capital, and zip line through the canopy, soak in the hot springs, kayak in the shadow of a live volcano and hike over hanging bridges. ☑ Soak up the wild beauty of the Osa Peninsula . Reaching this region is a bit of a challenge, but being simply the best place to see wildlife in all of Costa Rica, we’d argue it’s more than worth it! ☑ Sun yourself on one of the beautiful beaches along the Northern Pacific Coast . Don’t miss a visit to the tranquil Nicoya Peninsula (and a stay at the incredible Lagarta Lodge , too!) Costa Rica holidays     A county of so much variation and contrast, it’s not tricky to see why Vietnam makes up a huge 10.9% of our 2023 holidays already.   Vietnam holiday highlights ☑ Float amidst the towering limestone rocks of Asia’s most spectacular landscape. A cruise on Ha Long Bay is a must for any Vietnam holiday. ☑ Enjoy a slower pace of life for a few days in the yellow-washed gem that is Hoi An . With cobbled streets that come alive with the light of thousands of lanterns after dark, small tailoring shops, riverside cafes and traditional merchant houses, it’s a special place. ☑ Trek with a local hill tribe through the stunning landscapes around Sapa . Vibrant green valleys, perfectly terraced rice paddies, fast-flowing streams and countless waterfalls await you here. Vietnam holidays     A Jordan holiday is so much more than just a visit to Petra. As 9.9% of our booked clients are set to find out next year…   Jordan holiday highlights ☑ You simply can’t visit Jordan without making a trip to “the rose-red city half as old as time”. Petra is as stunning as it is historic, prepare to pinch yourself once you’ve made your way down the Siq Canyon and are treated to that first glimpse of the famous Treasury Tomb. ☑ Experience the feeling of weightlessness with a bob about in the turquoise waters of the Dead Sea . Found at the lowest point on the Earth’s surface (422 metres below sea level, to be exact), it’s a truly unique place to visit – and the health benefits claimed of its waters are worth the trip, too! ☑ Visit the ancient city of Jerash . Found just outside Amman , Jordan’s capital, these ruins are incredibly well preserved and anyone who loves a bit of history in their holiday mix, will be in their element here. Jordan holidays     South Africa is the destination that started HA. It was the very first place we ever sent clients all those many years ago. And, with 8.7% of holidays heading here next year, we’re chuffed that it’s still as popular as ever.   South Africa holiday highlights ☑ Most South Africa holidays we design, start in the incredible capital of Cape Town . And what a welcome. Gorgeous beaches ready for sundowners, fantastic shopping, fascinating history and world-class food and drink – all set against a backdrop of the unmistakable Table Mountain. It’s not hard to see why Cape Town is considered one of the most iconic cities in the World. ☑ Animals, animals, animals. The quest for the Big 5 is at the top of most South Africa holiday wish lists. And, with incredible safari offerings all over the country, wildlife sightings are (almost) guaranteed to be brilliant here. They’re wild animals of course, they go where they please. But, whether you visit Kruger , the Eastern Cape , Limpogo , KwaZulu-Natal , the Kalahari , or one of the many other reserves – we fancy your chances! ☑ Head to the Great Escarpment , to take in some of the very best landscapes South Africa has to offer. With waterfalls, river canyons, forests, wildlife and viewpoints galore (don’t miss God’s Window!) – it’s a great addition to any South Africa holiday. South Africa holidays     It’s finally back! It’s been off the holiday list for far too long, so we couldn’t be happier that 8.5% of the booked travels in 2023 are heading off to this captivating country. Bullet trains, robot cafes, perfect gardens, bamboo forests, ancient walking trails and so much culture awaits.   Japan holiday highlights ☑ We’re not sure you can visit Japan, without experiencing its largest, craziest and most robot-filled cities. Tokyo is often considered the biggest metropolis on the planet – and we love it. For all of its neon lights and progressive technology, its historic soul is very much intact with countless temples, shrines and gardens dotted around the city. ☑ The spiritual heart of Japan, Kyoto is bursting with shrines and history. Step back in time with a bike ride down the ancient streets of the Gion neighbourhood (keep your eyes peeled for Geisha!), head to the bright red gates of the Fushimi Inari Shrine and even test your sword skills at a Ninja workshop . ☑ Experience a different side of Japanese life and culture with some time in Takayama . The perfect base from which to visit to beautiful, rural countryside (the Christmas-card village of Shirakawago is very close by!) – the antique wooden buildings will charm you in no time at all. Japan holidays     Without doubt the must exotic and alluring getaway you can have within a 4-hour flight from the UK, it’s no wonder that Morocco is always a popular one with our clients, snapping up 8.2% of 2023 booking so far.   Morocco holiday highlights ☑ Spend a day or two on the golden sands of the Erg Chebbi. It’s one of only two places in Morocco where you can see the start of the great Sahara Desert. Take a camel ride across the dunes and sleep under the stars. A highlight of any Morocco holiday for sure. ☑ Explore the bohemian streets, pretty medina and blue-washed walls of Chefchaouen . Perfect for photography lovers, this stunning town is set against a backdrop of mountains with so many trails to explore! ☑ For a real slice of authentic Morocco, venture into the High Atlas Mountains and spend some time with the Berbers . There are trails to explore, mountains to climb, fresh mint tea to drink and home-cooked traditional dinners with local families to enjoy. Morocco holidays     Sri Lanka had a bit of a rocky start to the year, but we’re delighted to say it’s fully back on the holiday radar now! With 7% of booked holidays next year visiting this jewel-shaped island, we’re so excited for more of our clients to fall in love with all it has to offer.   Sri Lanka holiday highlights ☑ Take on of the most picturesque train rides on earth up into the rolling tea hills in the middle of the country. Make the most of the slight drop in temperature and take a hike to Lipton’s Seat, enjoy a tour of a local tea factory and indulge in High Tea at the Grand Hotel Nuwara Eliya. ☑ Dig out your binoculars for a safari at Yala National Park . With a varied ecosystem made up of monsoon forests, grasslands, sandy beaches and wetlands – the animal sightings are brilliant here. Plus, said to be home to one of the highest concentrations of leopard on earth, it’s THE place to go if you’re hoping to catch a glimpse of one of the illusive cats. ☑ Spend some time in Sri Lanka’s Cultural Triangle to get a taste of the country’s rich history. Climb Sigiriya Rock Fortress, explore the Dambulla Cave Temples and take a bike ride around the ancient city ruins of Polonnaruwa. Sri Lanka holiday     Namibia has been having a bit of a moment recently and – quite rightly – growing in popularity as a Southern Africa holiday destination. An impressive 6.6% of HA holidays next year are heading to this otherworldly landscape…   Namibia holiday highlights ☑ One of the big hitters of Namibia holidays, the sand seas of the Namib Desert (the oldest desert on earth don’t you know!) around Sossusvlei are something very special. The graceful curves of the massive glowing dunes stand in stark contrast to the other-worldly white pans “vleis”, with dead trees and cracked mud, that lay in their shadow. ☑ The Skeleton Coast forms a division between mainland Namibia and the crashing waves of the Atlantic Ocean. Dotted with shipwrecks, without doubt, this coast line is one of Namibia’s most unspoiled and remote areas. Experience it in true style with this ‘Flying the Skeleton Coast’ holiday. ☑ Head to the wide open plains of Etosha National Park to experience one of Southern Africa’s premier safari destinations. Boasting incredible numbers of elephant, zebra, giraffe, antelope and big cats, (plus fairly good number of elusive Black rhino!), a safari adventure awaits here. Namibia holidays     Nabbing 6.1% of next year’s holiday bookings so far, the orangutan-filled rainforests of Borneo are looking to be popular over the next 12 months.   Borneo holiday highlights ☑ A nature-lovers dream, the Danum Valley Conservation Area is one of the world’s most complex ecosystems. It’s perfect for wildlife spotting, with orangutan, Pygmy elephant and clouded leopard spotted frequently. The area is strongly protected, and access tightly restricted, so make sure you factor in a stay at the beautiful Borneo Rainforest Lodge to experience it for yourself. ☑ Visit the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre and Bornean Sun Bear Conservation Centre in the heart of Sepilok. Set amidst lush rainforest and explored via a series of elevated walkways, this is a brilliant place to come for a taste of Borneo wildlife – with the chance to do good along the way. ☑ The island paradise of Gaya Island is the perfect place to unwind on your Borneo holiday after all of the orangutan-spotting excitement. White-sand beaches, fringed with lush palms on one side and turquoise waters the other. Dive on in. Borneo holidays     Canada is vast, diverse and packed full of extraordinarily wide range of scenery and experiences. Whether you’re after beautiful beaches, snowy mountains, wildlife encounters, adrenaline-pumping outdoor adventures or a tranquil lake cruise – it’s got you covered. That 5.2% of bookings are in for a real treat…   Canada holiday highlights ☑ Take one of the World’s most iconic journeys, a train ride on the Rocky Mountain Express through the towering snow-capped peaks of the the Rocky Mountains. This two-day rail journey takes you all the way from Vancouver to beautiful Jasper. ☑ Experience the power of Mother Nature at full force with a visit to Niagara Falls . You can take a boat ride right up to the falls, fly over the top of it or even walk right behind the plummeting water. Plus, nearby Niagara-on-the-Lake with its artisan shops, art galleries and cafes is the perfect base. ☑ You can’t truly appreciate the beauty of Canada until you’ve seen Banff with your own eyes. Canada’s very first National Park (created in 1883), the bright blue water set against the backdrop of mountain wilderness, is pinch-yourself perfect.     The charm of the Cambodian smile is ready and waiting to welcome 4% of HA holiday bookings in 2023 (so far, that is!). We have a real soft spot for this country, its beauty, sights, and its warm, resilient people.   Cambodia holiday highlights ☑ Fall in love with the charms of Siem Reap . Obviously you have to spend some time exploring the ancient temple complex of Angkor Wat , but there’s so much more on offer here. Take a street food tour by vespa and enjoy some of the many sophisticated restaurants and chic bars popping up all over the town. Don’t miss an evening at the Phare Circus either, such talent! ☑ Sun yourself on the secret islands of the south coast . With powdery white sand beaches, lapped with clear blue waters, these small islands boast dramatic headlands and jungle forests. They’re also home to luxurious hideaways perfect for a slice of well deserved R&R after time spent soaking up the history and culture of Cambodia. ☑ Journey up into the Cardamom Mountains . This remote virgin rainforest is one of the last remaining habitats for Asian elephants, bears, tigers and the Siamese crocodile. With deserted river islands, thundering waterfalls and Wildlife Sanctuaries to visit, the Cardamom Mountains would be a great addition to any Cambodia holiday. Cambodia holidays     Oman is such a unique holiday destination – and we can’t wait to send 3.5% of our 2023 clients there. With cities, deserts, rich culture, mountain villages and so much history to explore, it has all the makings of a great adventure for all the family.   Oman holiday highlights ☑ Start your adventure with some time in the capital of Muscat . Old Muscat and Muttrah make up the historical heart of the city, with palaces to explore, forts to walk around, giant chandeliers to be wowed by and old souqs to get lost in. With beach resorts nearby and the option to take a sunset Dhow cruise , too, there’s something for everyone. ☑ It might be just a few hours from Muscat, but the Wahiba Sands feel anything but. Stretching nearly 200 miles from north to south, you’ll find towering golden dunes, deep valleys, local Bedouins and an awful lot of camels here. What’s more, with some beautiful tented camps to choose from, you’ll be relaxing in comfort under the starry desert skies. ☑ Venture up towards the Hajar Mountains and explore the sheer canyons, terraced villages and forts around Nizwa . You’ll feel a million miles away from day-to-day life here – a real insight into rural Omani life. Oman holidays     Whether you visit the North Island, the South Island, or both, New Zealand has all of the makings of an adventure worthy of your 2023 holidays. With 2.4% of booked holidays heading here, we’re already excited to see the travel snaps.     New Zealand holiday highlights ☑ Get away from it all and spend some time in Abel Tasman National Park . All of New Zealand is staggeringly beautiful, but there’s something extra special about this region. With sheltered turquoise waters perfect for kayaking and so many incredible walking trails with a more breathtaking view waiting around every corner – it’s a must. ☑ Be captivated by the marine life playground that is Kaikoura . This is THE place to go to spot giant sperm whales, playful dusky dolphins, seals, sweeping albatross and so much more. ☑ Tucked away in the far south-western corner of the South Island, you’ll find the Fjordland National Park. A boat ride through Milford Sound (or the slightly quieter Doubtful Sound), will certainly make you New Zealand holiday highlights list.   So, where makes your holiday wish list?   Latest posts 15 of our favourite holiday ideas Summer holiday ideas: Our team share their favourite summer itineraries The hibernation’s over: Canada holidays are back! The most popular destinations for 2025 so far Holiday quiz: Find your perfect 2025 holiday  
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24 July 2025

Wildlife Holiday Ideas

It’s World Animal Day! So, we thought we’d share 9 of our favourite wildlife holiday ideas to inspire you to take a walk on the wild side – responsibly of course! So, whether you want to mingle with mammals, frolic with fishes, meander with marsupials or potter with primates, we’ve got you covered. Our wonderful world is full to bursting with phenomenal wildlife, just waiting to be responsibly encountered and ready to feature in your holiday highlights forevermore. Here are 9 wildlife holiday ideas that are all about ambling with the animals.   1. Trek with the mountain gorillas in Uganda Home to approximately 400 mountain gorillas, your chances of a life-changing gorilla encounter are high in Bwindi Impenetrable National Park . However, planning ahead is a must here: Tight regulations on gorilla tracking permits ensure visitor numbers are limited and the gorillas’ habitat and space are protected. This control over the numbers though, means that you’re guaranteed an exclusive experience even in peak travel season.     2. Elephants, monkeys, birdlife and whales on South Africa’s Garden Route South Africa has to feature on any list of wildlife holiday ideas. Whether you’re keen for a safari to spot the Big 5, a whale watching trip to get as close as possible to the giants of the deep, or a fun-filled family day out at one of the many wildlife sanctuaries, you’re in for a treat here. South Africa’s Garden Route has it all: Brilliant whale watching opportunities (best between July and November), breathtaking scenery and walks, as well as excellent elephant , bird and monkey sanctuaries to enjoy. Get close to these magnificent animals and learn all about what the centres are doing to protect South Africa’s beloved wildlife. Read more >   3. Meet the locals of an underwater world in the Maldives The Maldives might not come to mind straight away when you’re thinking about wildlife holiday ideas. However, when you look beneath the waves there’s a whole colourful world of magical underwater wildlife to discover. With crystal clear waters and rainbow-coloured fish, our Maldives expert, Rebecca, recommends OBLU at Helengeti resort for the most wonderful coral reef just waiting for you to explore… Read more >   4. Witness the largest gathering of Asian elephants on earth in Sri Lanka’s Minneriya National Park Throughout the year, large numbers of Asian elephants can be seen in Sri Lanka’s Minneriya National Park . Minneriya National Park sits to the northeast of Sigiriya and offers a welcome change of scenery from the ancient ruins that dominate the area. The park is home to the large and ancient Minneriya Tank, and it boasts an enormous variety of habitat and wildlife, covered in dry tropical forest, grasslands and wetlands. Its main draw and principle attraction are the elephants, particularly during the dry season. Between July and September, when the smaller water holes have dried up, the elephants gather in huge numbers, more than anywhere else on earth. Head to Sri Lanka to witness a wildlife phenomenon you’ll never forget. Read more >   5. Spot the ‘Big 5’ and more in Tanzania’s Serengeti If you’re looking for wildlife holiday ideas that will get you up close and personal with Africa’s Big-5; Tanzania is just magic. Whether this will be your first time on safari or you’re a seasoned pro, your Serengeti experience will stay with you for a lifetime. Combining wildlife wonders with top-notch comfort, this holiday idea will see you exploring the high wildlife density of Tarangire , the beautiful Lake Manyara National Park , the staggeringly beautiful Ngorongoro crater and the unfathomable vastness of the Serengeti . Talk to our specialists about visiting at the right time of year to witness the great migration too! What’s more, once you’ve been blown away by more African wildlife than you could wish for, the beautiful beaches of Zanzibar make the perfect end to a perfect holiday. Read more>   6. Cloudforests, the Amazon and the wildlife haven of the Galapagos Taking in the rich biodiversity of the cloud forest , Ecuadorian Amazon and the fearless animals of the Galapagos , this 14-day itinerary is the dream for wildlife enthusiasts. With incredible wildlife to uncover, dramatic scenery to be wowed by, thousands of different types of flora and fauna to learn about and encounters with some of the most intrepid animals on earth, this wildlife holiday idea really does have it all. An expedition to the Galapagos islands is something we believe everyone should experience at least once in their lifetime. There will be snorkelling trips to see colourful marine life in the morning, strolls through the highlands to spot tortoises and boat rides to see blue-footed boobies nesting in the rocks. You’ll be accompanied throughout by your naturalist guide who is on hand to answer questions and will give details on the geology and wildlife of each destination. Fortunately, there are strict measures in place to protect this fragile ecosystem, so that visitors have as little impact as is possible. Read more>   7. Explore the jungles of Costa Rica’s Osa Peninsula Quite simply the best place to see wildlife in all of Costa Rica, the wild beauty of the Osa Peninsula is unmatched anywhere else in the country. This isolated and remote outcrop of land juts out into Pacific Ocean is blanketed in dense rainforest offering the most intense biodiversity in all Central America. It’s a little tricky to get to, but the rewards make the effort more than worth it. This wildlife holiday idea has been carefully designed with real wildlife enthusiasts in mind, following a route that showcases a wide variety of natural habitats and some of the best reserves in the country. The Corcovado National Park receives regular acclaim for the sheer number of bird and mammal species recorded here. And exploring the jungle throughout the peninsula provides opportunities to spot all four of Costa Rica’s species of monkey, two-toed sloths and other curious mammals such as anteaters and tayras. Reptiles and unusual insects abound, whilst bird lovers will also delight in the sight of scarlet macaws soaring above black-sand beaches or the opportunity to glimpse unusual species such as the black-cheeked Ant tanager, almost impossible to see anywhere else in Costa Rica. Read more>   8. Hang with the orangutans in Borneo Borneo is one of the best places on earth to see orangutan in the wild. Sepilok in particular, is famous as one of the world’s best orangutan viewing locations, home to the Orangutan Rehabilitation Centre where the animals roam freely in the rainforest and often swing by the centre at feeding time, allowing visitors a heart-warming encounter. Nearby there is also the option to visit the excellent Sun Bear Conservation Centre , and Labuk Bay Proboscis Monkey Sanctuary where you will learn more about the vital part these creatures play in the ecosystem and the efforts made to protect them. Read more >   9. Track the endangered black rhino in Namibia Namibia is an enlightened eco-tourism destination and their Save the Rhino Trust is one of Africa’s most celebrated conservation bodies. Visiting the Desert Rhino Camp in the Palmwag area of Damaraland to track the magnificent black rhino on foot, really is a once-in-a-lifetime experience you’ll feel honoured to have. The 450,000-hectare Palmwag Concession is a remote and very special place, home to Africa’s largest remaining population of endangered black rhino. Guests at Desert Rhino Camp have the privileged opportunity to track these fabulous animals with a skilled guide, often accompanied by a researcher for the Save The Rhino Trust, a pioneering conservation body in Palmwag for close to 20 years. The excursion begins with a leisurely nature drive, while trackers work in the background to locate rhinos. They will then radio your driver who takes you to within a short distance of the animal without causing disturbance through engine noise. Then comes the really exciting bit, as you leave the vehicle and walk as close to the rhino as possible, without startling it or causing any danger to human life and limb! This is a thrilling activity and a real treat, genuinely one of the most unique and exciting things you can do in Southern Africa. Read more >     We’re at the end of the phone to help you plan that unforgettable holiday, packed to the rafters with pinch-yourself wildlife encounters.  So, email us or give us a call on 01242 253 073 to chat to our travel-loving team about your holiday ideas. We’d love to help!    
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24 July 2025

The ultimate 21-day South Africa holiday

South Africa is quite simply magic. With roads to thrill even the most discerning of drivers, unparalleled wildlife experiences, scenery that is pinch-yourself beautiful and bursting with history and culture to uncover at every turn… this 21-day South Africa holiday really does have something for everyone.  (Remember, when you book a holiday with HA it is completely tailor-made to you and your interests. This is just a flavour of what you could hope to see over three weeks…) Your ultimate 21-day South Africa Holiday   Days 1-3: Cape Town Cape Town is considered to be one of the most popular cities on earth, and for good reason. Boasting incredible scenery (we’re looking at you Table Mountain), pristine white-sand beaches and an array of bars and restaurants that could give London a run for its money, it’s the perfect place to start your South Africa holiday. Cape Town is alive with the pulse of culture and adventure. Take the cable car up to the top of Table Mountain for a view of Cape Town you’ll never forget. Amble around the vibrantly coloured streets of Bo-Kaap. Spend a day walking in Nelson Mandela’s footsteps at Robben Island prison . Round it all off with a trip out to Camps Bay to enjoy a sundowner whilst the pastel colours leak across the horizon. The perfect spot to toast the adventures ahead.   Day 4: The Cape Peninsula Your first experience of South Africa’s spellbinding roads winds you around Chapman’s Peak, on the western side of the Cape Peninsula . Often heralded as one of the most scenic coastal drives in the world, it’s as beautiful as it is exhilarating. Keep your camera handy! And you’re in for a treat as the destination is just as thrilling as the journey… Walk up to Cape Point lighthouse for a view over the jagged rocks below. Standing on top of the world with nothing between you and Antarctica but crashing waves, you’ll really get a sense of how remote and rugged this corner of Africa is. You can’t miss visiting the suited and booted penguins of Boulder’s Beach either… You can even go for a dip with the friendly fellas if it’s warm enough, so pack your swimmers!   Day 5: The Winelands Just over an hour’s drive from the Cape, you’ll find yourself surrounded by a completely different landscape. Nestled in the beautiful valleys, sheltered beneath the steep mountains are the quaint towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek ; oozing with character, cafes, art galleries and – of course – wine. We’d always recommend spending a day exploring the wine estates on your South Africa holiday, taking in three or four different vineyards, learning about the winemaking process and, of course, indulging in the delicious array of tipples on offer. For a quirky experience, hop on the Franschhoek Wine Tram and enjoy the picturesque transfers between some of the best estates in the area. After this day, you’re sure to emerge relaxed, smiling and potentially with your belt loosened a notch or two.   Day 6: The Overberg We’re so fond of the Overberg region here at HA. All too often missed by those rushing through, on your way to enjoy the famous Garden Route, take the road less travelled and enjoy the beauty that this lesser-known region has to offer. Follow the winding back roads away from the Winelands and explore the beauty of the De Hoop Nature Reserve . You’ll be treated to staggering scenery that changes by the minute and the contrasting beauty of the rolling, grassy hills as they give way to the pristine sandy beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for ostriches, antelopes and the rich birdlife that call this region home – if you’re lucky you may even spot a whale frolicking in the waves beneath the horizon.   Days 7-9: The Garden Route The Garden Route is appropriately named, being all about the wows of nature at every turn. Lagoon-dotted shorelines, expanses of white sandy beach, jagged canyons and emerald forests are all ripe for exploring. Feeling active? Take to the waves for a spot of kayaking or white-water tubing in Mossel Bay. Feeling adventurous? Hike over the low-slung rope suspension bridge at Storms River Mouth. Feeling fancy? Explore Plettenberg Bay, often considered the swanky St Tropez of South Africa. However you choose to fill three days on the Garden Route, one thing’s for sure, its natural beauty won’t fail to seduce you.   Day 10: The Crags We’d always recommend spending a day in The Crags on your South Africa holiday, particularly if you’re travelling with children. With an abundance of attractions and activities to enjoy, it’s the perfect place to get another taste of South African wildlife. Visit the elephant sanctuary or enjoy an afternoon at the Birds of Eden aviary; home to countless species of rescued birds, all flying free. If mischievous primates are more your bag, head to Monkeyland right next door and enjoy the authentic forest habitat that’s been created to house rescued gibbons, spider monkeys and other cheeky chappies from all over the world.   Day 11: Fly to Durban Take a flight to Durban , the gateway to KwaZulu-Natal, and spend a day unwinding in one of the beautiful hotels, sunning yourself on the pristine beaches or indulging in all kinds of aqua-based adventures at uShaka Marine Park.   Days 12-13: The Drakensburg Mountains If you’re a fan of the great outdoors, you’ll be in your element with a hike in the Drakensburg Mountains . With mile upon mile of jaw-dropping trails, suitable for all fitness levels, this is the perfect place to really get away from it all and surround yourself with nature. ‘Drakens’ is Afrikaans for ‘dragon’ and ‘berg’ translates to ‘mountain’, and we assure you these dragon mountains are just as magical as their namesake.   Days 14-15: Explore the battlefields So far, your South Africa holiday has wowed you with its cities, scenery, wildlife and wine… now for the ace up its sleeve; lashings of history and culture. Submerse yourself in the history of both the Anglo-Zulu war and the Anglo-Boer wars of the late 19th century. The historical sites you will visit and remarkable stories of heroism and desperation you’ll hear, make this stop-off a must on your South Africa adventure, whether you’re a history buff or not. The guides here are second-to-none, and never fail to bring these phenomenal moments of history to life in the most memorable way.   Days 16-17: Blyde River Canyon Drive north from the battlefields to the Escarpment region and feast your eyes on the spectacular natural vista of Blyde River Canyon . Stretching out for 25 kilometres and plunging 800 metres deep, the beauty really is something to behold. Whether you view the forested slopes from God’s Window or The Three Rondavels, prepare to be astounded by the impressive display of nature rolling out before you. If you want to get more up close and personal with the landscape, lace up your hiking boots and take a walk along the floor of the canyon. From whatever perspective you view this magical landmark, you’re sure to feel dwarfed by the hand and beauty of Mother nature.   Days 18-20: Kruger National Park If you were ever going to end your South Africa holiday adventure on a high, Kruger National Park is the place to do it. Over the next three days you’ll collect more stories of goosepimple inducing animal encounters than you’ll know what to do with. Few experiences are as mesmerising as coming face-to-face with one of the Big Five in its natural habitat. If you’re able, turn the wild adventure up a notch with a guided bush walk. Imagine the invigoration and thrill of coming across a lion track made just a few hours earlier and knowing you’re walking in the very footsteps of the king of cats. Guided safaris, self-drive safaris and walking safaris, however you choose to experience this wild jewel in South Africa’s crown, neither you nor your camera will be disappointed!   Day 21: Time to fly home Time to pack your bags and grab a hankie, as today you fly home. Make sure you take your camera on the flight with you so you can spend the hours looking back on the last 21 days of adventure, experience and awe-inspiring animal encounters with a smile.     Inspired? Contact our resident South Africa holiday experts and ask any questions about tailor-made trips to explore the many wonders South Africa has in store.  

Where to visit in South Africa

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For the first-time visitor, it's an essential stop on your trip, whilst to the initiated Cape Town evokes memories of beautiful sunny holidays, an easy-going lifestyle, great shopping, fascinating history and some wonderful hotels, all sandwiched between the sand-fringed Atlantic Ocean and the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain. Cape Town is also a city of contrasting neighbourhoods, from the sun-kissed Californian feel of Camps Bay, to the vibrancy of Long Street, the slave heritage of Bo Kaap, and the booming district of Greenpoint, centred on the remarkable 2010 FIFA World Cup stadium.

There is a fantastic array of activities and excursions in Cape Town to fill your day with. It is normally the base from which you'd explore the stunning and wild Cape Peninsula, as well as taking in the sights of the city itself, including a trip up Table Mountain and a tour of Robben Island prison, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years of imprisonment. You must also visit the modern shops and restaurants of the V&A Waterfront. By teaming up with a truly amazing local charity, Uthando, we can take you on a tour of projects they support within these townships and show you that there is progress being made on this. If you have time, the Winelands is a beautiful region right on the city's doorstep which produces some amazing wines and plays host to some outstanding restaurants. Cape Town is rightfully recognised as one of the most iconic cities in the world, and will undoubtedly be a real highlight of your holiday in South Africa.

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Rainfall - 40mm/month
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There are very few things in life that compare to the thrill of a close encounter with wildlife, and the Kruger is one of the very best places in the world to experience this. It's the Big Five that most people are seeking, the five species once most feared and treasured by hunters and now equally enthralling to safari-goers: lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. The Kruger boasts all of these, along with a huge array of other game within its enormous boundaries: at 19,000 square kilometres, it really is vast. Visitors have a choice between staying in the national park itself, or in one of the private reserves that share unfenced borders with the Kruger. The national parks board accommodation is significantly cheaper, and also allows you the choice of guided safari drives or self-drive safari, whilst the private reserves offer unbelievable levels of luxury in the bush, and guided safari drives that can go off-road in pursuit of game, something not permitted in the national park itself. The western edge of the Kruger, in particular the Sabi Sand private reserve, is a dense riverine environment, ideal territory for leopards, traditionally the most elusive of the Big Five, but a near-guaranteed sighting in this part of the world. It makes it arguable the best place in the whole of Africa to see the Big Five in the wild.

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[parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 568 [rgt] => 569 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-kruger [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 11 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 16-27C
Rainfall - 45mm/month
[featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [2] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Garden Route [oldid] => 6788 [alias] => the-garden-route [id] => 322 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Garden Route is probably the most popular destination in South Africa after Cape Town, and has earned this position thanks to the gorgeous juxtaposition of a heavily wooded landscape with a shoreline of lagoons, long beaches, canyons and crashing waves. It is the lush greenness of it all that gives the Garden Route its name, and taking the back roads through the forests, across picture-perfect stone bridges that date back over a hundred years is a great way to get off-the-beaten track here. For the adventurous and active there is kayaking, hiking and cycling on offer, or even white-water tubing and bungy jumping. More traditional pastimes include ocean safaris and a fantastic selection of wildlife interaction on offer near the stunningly located town of Plettenberg Bay. At Knysna the pretty waterfront development looks over the lagoon towards the towering cliffs of the Knysna Heads, where the ocean rolls in, mixing and churning with the outgoing river water. A similar thing occurs at the Storms River mouth, only you can get so much closer to it thanks to a low-slung rope suspension bridge. In short, the Garden Route is all about nature and a huge variety of ways to get close to it, enjoy it and be thrilled by it.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Unnamed Road, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -34.0487409733245 [long] => 23.2085176398437 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The%20Garden%20Route_Featherbed%20Nature%20Reserve_KnysnaiStock-136652343.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The Garden Route_Featherbed Nature Reserve_KnysnaiStock-136652343.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"Featherbed Nature Reserve, the Garden Route","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The%20Garden%20Route_Beaches_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The Garden Route_Beaches_Unsplash.jpg?width=4496&height=3372","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Garden Route","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images7":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The%20Garden%20Route_iStock-154926644%20-%20Photo%20-%20istock.com%20-%20holgs.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The Garden Route_iStock-154926644 - Photo - istock.com - holgs.jpg?width=2560&height=1920","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Garden Route","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images8":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The%20Garden%20Route_Tsitsikamma%20National%20Park_iStock-961200996.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The Garden Route_Tsitsikamma National Park_iStock-961200996.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"Tsitsikamma National Park, the Garden Route","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images9":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The%20Garden%20Route_Robberg%20Peninsula_iStock-620719812-2.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/The Garden Route_Robberg Peninsula_iStock-620719812-2.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Robberg Peninsula, the Garden Route","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images10":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/tsitsikamma-2182806_1280.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/tsitsikamma-2182806_1280.jpg?width=1280&height=720","image_focus":"center","caption":"Tsitsikamma National Park, the Garden Route","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/Tenikwa.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/Storms-River-Bridge.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/national-park-176051_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/sea-241665_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-garden-route\/suspension-bridge-416950_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 570 [rgt] => 571 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-garden-route [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 14-21C
Rainfall - 60mm/month
Water Temp. - 17C [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [3] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Drakensberg Mountains [oldid] => 7188 [alias] => the-drakensberg-mountains [id] => 327 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Drakensberg Mountains are best visited in the western corner of KwaZulu-Natal. Here, they rise to their imposing best, forming the impenetrable border with Lesotho. The mountains thoroughly deserve their Zulu name of uKhahlamba, meaning barrier of spears, and any time spent here will be dominated by their presence. It's a part of the world for active people and nature lovers. Hiking is obviously popular and fishing is also a possibility. The mountains are home to wildlife such as the mighty eland antelope, and for bird watchers, a visit to Giant's Castle to try and spot the Lammergeier Vulture is a must. The San people were present here from over 8,000 years ago and as well as walks to see their rock art in caves, there is an excellent interpretive centre at Didima Camp. For the fit and adventurous, there is the chance to climb Cathedral Peak, at just over 3,000 metres high. Slightly further north is the beautiful Royal Natal National Park, with the stunning Amphitheatre, a towering cliff face approximately 5 kilometres long and 1,200 metres high. It was used as the backdrop to the Michael Cane film, Zulu, a reminder that the Battlefields of the Zulu wars are but a short journey away from here.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Cathedral Peak, Kokwane, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -28.9241667 [long] => 29.1338888999999 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/Drakensburg_iStock-%20Drakensburg%20-%20fmbackx%20-%20182518086.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/Drakensburg_iStock- Drakensburg - fmbackx - 182518086.jpg?width=4368&height=2912","image_focus":"center","caption":"Drakensberg Mountains","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/Drakensberg.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/The%20Drakensberg%20Mountains_hiking_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/The Drakensberg Mountains_hiking_Unsplash.jpg?width=6000&height=4000","image_focus":"center","caption":"Hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/Drakensberg%20amphitheature%20-%20smaller%200%20iStock-166210726.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/Drakensberg amphitheature - smaller 0 iStock-166210726.jpg?width=1254&height=836","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Amphitheatre, the Drakensberg Mountains","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/The%20Drakensberg%20Mountains_Viewpoint_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/The Drakensberg Mountains_Viewpoint_Unsplash.jpg?width=7952&height=5304","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Drakensberg","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/The%20Drakensberg%20Mountains_Climbing%20adventure_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/The Drakensberg Mountains_Climbing adventure_Unsplash.jpg?width=6000&height=4000","image_focus":"center","caption":"Hiking in the Drakensberg","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/The%20Drakensberg%20Mountains_2_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-drakensberg-mountains\/The Drakensberg Mountains_2_Unsplash.jpg?width=4288&height=2848","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Drakensberg Mountains","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 572 [rgt] => 573 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-drakensberg-mountains [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 10-20C
Rainfall - 90mm/month
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The Escarpment region of South Africa offers a real change of pace, and a big change of scenery, from the nearby bush. Packed with forested hills, plunging waterfalls, winding mountain passes and epic lookouts over vast canyons and craggy cliffs, it’s often used as a scenic stopover between Johannesburg and Kruger. But we think it’s well worth more than a night if you can spare it! 

This is the land of the Panorama Route – a name that says it all. It’s one of South Africa’s most scenic drives, winding past some of the country’s most jaw-dropping views. God’s Window offers a sweeping view point across the lowveld plains, while the sheer drop of Lisbon Falls makes it one of the region’s most dramatic waterfalls to visit. The mighty Blyde River Canyon – the third largest in the world – is absolutely enormous in scale, and equally beautiful! You’ll pass through historic gold rush towns like Graskop and Pilgrim’s Rest, both brimming with old-world charm and great coffee stops, and visit the quirky rock formations of Bourke’s Luck Potholes. 

For a change of scenery, there’s the cooler mountain air and forest trails of Sabie and Hazyview, or the chance to explore on foot, by bike or even horseback. There are plenty of adventures to be had in the Escarpment, chat to us to find out more.

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Rainfall - 55mm/month
[featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [5] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Elephant Coast [oldid] => 7366 [alias] => the-elephant-coast [id] => 330 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Elephant Coast runs from north of Durban right up to the border with Mozambique, and offers an array of different experiences. Part of the coastline is incorporated within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, whose ecosystems and wildlife are covered in the KwaZulu-Natal safari section of the website. Our focus here is on the northern stretch of the Elephant Coast. This is a wild and remote area, where coastal forests are deep and green, leading right up to the crests of the vast sand dunes set just back from the ocean. The forests are home to a huge array of wildlife, including monkeys, antelope and prolific birdlife. Offshore is equally dramatic, with whales, sharks and turtles all putting in an appearance for the intrepid snorkeller or scuba diver. Whilst not a classic beach destination in the Indian Ocean sense, it is still probably the best place to spend time on the beach in South Africa. In part this is due to the wonderful lodges you can find here, offering exclusivity, luxury and wonderful locations set on fringe between the forests and the beaches. These lodges offer a variety of ways to explore the beauty and wildlife of the region, or simply somewhere to relax and get away from it all.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => D1846 Road, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -26.9527146059662 [long] => 32.8716502595215 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The%20Elephant%20Coast_iSimangaliso%20Wetland%20Park_iStock-1080284994.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The Elephant Coast_iSimangaliso Wetland Park_iStock-1080284994.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"iSimangaliso Wetland Park, the Elephant Coast","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The%20Elephant%20Coast_iSimangaliso%20Wetland%20Park_joshua-gaunt-lc1m2gP72iQ-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The Elephant Coast_iSimangaliso Wetland Park_joshua-gaunt-lc1m2gP72iQ-unsplash.jpg?width=4000&height=2250","image_focus":"center","caption":"iSimangaliso Wetland Park, the Elephant Coast","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The%20Elephant%20Coast_iSimangaliso%20Wetland%20Park_doretha-rost-h4e11ADlC4I-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The Elephant Coast_iSimangaliso Wetland Park_doretha-rost-h4e11ADlC4I-unsplash.jpg?width=2786&height=3483","image_focus":"center","caption":"iSimangaliso Wetland Park","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/lake-exploration-kosi-fb2.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/lake-exploration-kosi-fb2.jpg?width=1024&height=685","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The%20Elephant%20Coast_iSimangaliso%20Wetland%20Park_martie-bloem-5jVknPwpSZQ-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The Elephant Coast_iSimangaliso Wetland Park_martie-bloem-5jVknPwpSZQ-unsplash.jpg?width=5184&height=3456","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The%20Elephant%20Coast_iSimangaliso%20Wetland%20Park_asher-pardey-_XGuEBQp6TM-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-elephant-coast\/The Elephant Coast_iSimangaliso Wetland Park_asher-pardey-_XGuEBQp6TM-unsplash.jpg?width=6693&height=4462","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 576 [rgt] => 577 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-elephant-coast [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 17-25C
Rainfall - 90mm/month
Water Temp. - 24C [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [6] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Battlefields [oldid] => 7243 [alias] => the-battlefields [id] => 328 [state] => 1 [content] =>

Thanks to the perennial bank holiday showings of the film Zulu, most of us are vaguely aware of the Anglo-Zulu war of the late 19th century, the events of which took place largely in the western half of the modern-day province of KwaZulu-Natal. By a quirk of geography and history, many of the engagements and events of the Anglo-Boer wars of the same period also took place here. This might make it sound like somewhere only for the dedicated history buffs, but nothing could be further from the truth. The stories told here are so engaging in their heroism and desperation: whether it's the resounding Zulu success of Isandlwana, where their army wiped out almost an entire British column, or the famous rearguard action at Rorke's Drift where more Victoria Crosses were awarded to the same regiment in one engagement than before or since, or the bloody stalemate of Spionkop, a harrowing battle otherwise notable for the presence of Paul Kruger (then a Boer commando), Winston Churchill (then a journalist) and Ghandi (then a non-combatant stretcher bearer). What makes a visit to the Battlefields region so worthwhile is the absolutely phenomenal quality of the guides working at the lodges in the region. They will bring all these amazing stories to life and make you relive these brutal and tragic times in a way you are unlikely to have experienced before.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => D30, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -28.3520786547676 [long] => 30.5790115498047 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/The%20Battlefields_Battle%20of%20Isandlwana_iStock-1184242019.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/The Battlefields_Battle of Isandlwana_iStock-1184242019.jpg?width=3654&height=2446","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/isandlwana-isandlwana-lodge-fb.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/Rorkes%20Drift%20-%20iStock-1185961483.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/Rorkes Drift - iStock-1185961483.jpg?width=2116&height=1416","image_focus":"center","caption":"Rorke's Drift, Battlefields, South Africa","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/Battlefields%20South%20Africa%20antoinette-plessis-A4HARmxCSp0-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/Battlefields South Africa antoinette-plessis-A4HARmxCSp0-unsplash.jpg?width=3456&height=2304","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/The%20Battlefields_Battle%20of%20Isandlwana_iStock-2165838680.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-battlefields\/The Battlefields_Battle of Isandlwana_iStock-2165838680.jpg?width=2116&height=1416","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 578 [rgt] => 579 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-battlefields [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 10-23C
Rainfall - 70mm/month
[featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [7] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Kalahari [oldid] => 7793 [alias] => the-kalahari [id] => 335 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Kalahari is one of Africa's iconic geographical features, covering 900,000 square kilometres and parts of three different countries: Namibia, Botswana and South Africa. It is typified by red earth and a range of uniquely adapted animals that call it home. The most legendary of these is the black-maned lion; another classic Kalahari image is a gemsbok, or oryx, sihloutted atop a sand dune, its long, straight horns pointing skyward. The Kalahari is remote, the South African portion being tucked away in the north of the country with few flights and long, empty roads connecting it to mainstream life. You could choose to visit it in luxury at a private reserve, or to stay in one of the national parks, driving yourself around. The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park was one of the first of the new wave of parks that straddle national borders, and is partly in South Africa, partly in Botswana: a challenging but hugely rewarding place to visit.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Restcamp Twee Rivieren, Mier, Northern Cape, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -26.472542 [long] => 20.6118639999999 [modified_by] => 108 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kalahari\/meerkat-1392861.jpg","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kalahari\/MG_2218.jpg","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kalahari\/Black-maned-male.jpg","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kalahari\/Landscape-9.jpg","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kalahari\/cheetahs-1505775_1280.jpg","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kalahari\/lion-2882936.jpg","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kalahari\/Pangolin-Kids-Tswalu.jpg","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 580 [rgt] => 581 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-kalahari [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 11 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 11-30C
Rainfall - 5mm/month [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => 0 [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [8] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Limpopo [oldid] => 10046 [alias] => limpopo [id] => 337 [state] => 1 [content] =>

Limpopo is a South African province bordering Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique known for bushveld and wildlife reserves, including the Waterberg, Marakele, Mabula and Welgevondon. Vast Lowveld plains are interrupted by several mountain ranges rising out of the Highveld plateau and gorges with natural streams and pools running through them. A malaria-free province of perfectly positioned 'Big 5' reserves just a few miles from Johannesburg, it makes for a safari experience like no other in South Africa. This landscape filled with mountains and baobabs also gives the opportunity to explore beyond the wildlife and delve into the culture and history of the area with Bushmen Rock Art and fossil-rich caves dating back to early hominids. With so much to experience and a range of safari lodges to appease all travellers, why restrict yourself to just two or three nights?

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Limpopo, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -23.4012946 [long] => 29.4179324 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Limpopo_Giraffe_iStock-958201790.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Limpopo_Giraffe_iStock-958201790.jpg?width=2104&height=1424","image_focus":"center","caption":"Limpopo","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Safari-plains-wildlife-elephant3.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Limpopo_The%20Waterberg%20-%20iStock-492733254.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Limpopo_The Waterberg - iStock-492733254.jpg?width=5472&height=3648","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Waterberg, Limpopo","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images7":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Limpopo-iStock-956565840.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Limpopo-iStock-956565840.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"Limpopo","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/clifftop-lodge-safari-jackal-1.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Giraffe-drinking.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/Hyena.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/limpopo\/safari-plains-mabula-cheetah.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 582 [rgt] => 583 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/limpopo [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 11 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp: 16-27C
Rainfall: 45mm/month [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [9] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Madikwe Game Reserve [oldid] => 7721 [alias] => madikwe-game-reserve [id] => 334 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Madikwe feels the most African of all the parks and reserves in South Africa; at 75,000 hectares it is also one of the largest. The red Kalahari earth, long ridge lines and open plains give it the African feel, and seeing some magnificent beast silhouetted on one of those ridge is an iconic image. The Madikwe is a recent success story, as it was only in 1991 that the government decided to turn it into a wildlife reserve after it proved poor land for farming. Restocking has been very successful and the Big Five roam here, amongst herds of plains game. The Madikwe is also a particularly good place to see the incredibly rare African Wild Dog. As well as being a conservation success story, the reserve has also led the way in community owned and run lodges, unusual in safari destinations and the most reliable way to ensure that the poor local communities get direct benefits from tourism. Its remoteness, the remarkable scenery and good, reliable game viewing means that the Madikwe gives the Kruger a good run for its money as the best place to go on safari in South Africa.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Madikwe Game Reserve, Zeerust, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -24.760435 [long] => 26.2777069999999 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/hunting-1364423.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_claire-roadley-qQyuyDhZpzw-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_claire-roadley-qQyuyDhZpzw-unsplash.jpg?width=9248&height=6936","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Female%20Cheetah%20Madikwe%20-%20robbie-cheadle-HPdecq03rpM-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Female Cheetah Madikwe - robbie-cheadle-HPdecq03rpM-unsplash.jpg?width=6000&height=4000","image_focus":"center","caption":"Female cheetah, Madikwe","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_dylan-shaw-363mioyrh1U-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_dylan-shaw-363mioyrh1U-unsplash.jpg?width=4480&height=6720","image_focus":"center","caption":"Elephant, Madikwe","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_robbie-cheadle-gorSQJ56_p0-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_robbie-cheadle-gorSQJ56_p0-unsplash.jpg?width=2414&height=2800","image_focus":"center","caption":"Cheetah cub, Madikwe","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_andrew-rice-9g-IHdZQ4Mk-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_andrew-rice-9g-IHdZQ4Mk-unsplash.jpg?width=3814&height=3098","image_focus":"center","caption":"Lion, Madikwe","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_marlin-clark-QruxctRg4AY-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_marlin-clark-QruxctRg4AY-unsplash.jpg?width=6960&height=4640","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images7":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_vince-russell-SNDL6erX0N0-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/madikwe-game-reserve\/Madikwe_vince-russell-SNDL6erX0N0-unsplash.jpg?width=3798&height=5697","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 584 [rgt] => 585 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/madikwe-game-reserve [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 11 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 12-24C
Rainfall - 40mm/month
[featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [10] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Johannesburg & Pretoria [oldid] => 7421 [alias] => johannesburg-pretoria [id] => 331 [state] => 1 [content] =>

For most people, Johannesburg and Pretoria are places to transit through, either connecting to flights both domestic and international, or perhaps when boarding one of the luxury trains that travel across the country. However, for those with the time and inclination, they are amazing places to learn more about South Africa, past and present. For the very distant past, a short trip out of town to Sterkfontein is required, a World Heritage site and labelled "The Cradle of Mankind", where the skeletons of over 500 early hominids, dating back as far as three million years, have been found. For the slightly more recent colonial history, a tour of Pretoria takes in the Union Buildings, designed by Herbert Baker in 1909, the Voortrekker Monument, built to honour the early Boer settlers in the region, and the museum located in the old house of the Boer leader, Paul Kruger. And for the most recent episodes of the South African story, Johannesburg is the place to go, from Soweto, with all the history the name implies, to Sandton Square, the boutique mecca for the modern middle class, to Soccer City, the latest phase in South Africa's development and location for the final of the FIFA World Cup 2010.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Sarel Baard Crescent, Centurion, 0154, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -25.8859141278599 [long] => 28.1630796675781 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg_iStock-509724438-2.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg_iStock-509724438-2.jpg?width=3888&height=2592","image_focus":"center","caption":"Johannesburg","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg%20and%20Pretoria_Joburg%20City_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg and Pretoria_Joburg City_Unsplash.jpg?width=4032&height=3024","image_focus":"center","caption":"Johannesburg","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg%20and%20Pretoria_simon-hurry-LuiwD6fnKM8-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg and Pretoria_simon-hurry-LuiwD6fnKM8-unsplash.jpg?width=4729&height=2660","image_focus":"center","caption":"Johannesburg","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg%20and%20Pretoria_gerrie-van-der-walt-5FqgB9qlKHA-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg and Pretoria_gerrie-van-der-walt-5FqgB9qlKHA-unsplash.jpg?width=3531&height=5296","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg%20and%20Pretoria_Joburg%20City%201_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg and Pretoria_Joburg City 1_Unsplash.jpg?width=6000&height=4000","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/johannesburg-pretoria\/Johannesburg.jpg?width=1200&height=800","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 586 [rgt] => 587 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/johannesburg-pretoria [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 11 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 10-19C
Rainfall - 60mm/month [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [11] => stdClass Object ( [title] => KwaZulu-Natal safaris [oldid] => 7299 [alias] => kwazulu-natal-safaris [id] => 329 [state] => 1 [content] =>

KwaZulu-Natal has a variety of safari options, which include activities based around Lake St Lucia as well as more traditional land-based safari. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is the biggest reserve, covering some 96,000 hectares, and is most famous for its conservation of the white rhino. Around 1900, there were less than 20 white rhino left in the wild; conservation and rebreeding efforts began here, and were remarkably successful, filling the reserve and allowing them to send rhinos to other reserves across the continent. It is safe to say that without the efforts made here, the white rhino would probably be extinct in the wild today. The park also boasts all the other members of the Big Five and a variety of accommodation. There are a couple of excellent private reserves in the province, including Phinda, run by & Beyond, one of the pre-eminent names in the world of eco-tourism. Phinda was their first, flagship project and has been hugely successful in returning farmland to its original state, and populated with the original wildlife, including the Big Five and cheetah. Near to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi and Phinda is the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site, based around the lake systems of St Lucia and the coastline, where the ocean is separated from the lake by wonderful sand dunes. Whether looking at the birdlife and antelopes of the wooded shoreline, or the marine life from the hippos on the lake to the turtles and whales of the offshore marine park, there is a wealth of activities and experiences to enjoy here.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, St Lucia Park, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -28.21983 [long] => 31.9518649999999 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/game-drives-phinda-web1.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/KwaZulu-Natal-Elephant.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South%20Africa_Wildlife%20Holiday_iStock-MarieHolding-153276041.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South Africa_Wildlife Holiday_iStock-MarieHolding-153276041.jpg?width=2100&height=1500","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South%20Africa_Wildlife%20Holiday_Springboks%20fighting_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South Africa_Wildlife Holiday_Springboks fighting_Unsplash.jpg?width=4600&height=3148","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South%20Africa_Wildlife%20Holiday_jason-briscoe-iFMbwfuYvS8-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South Africa_Wildlife Holiday_jason-briscoe-iFMbwfuYvS8-unsplash.jpg?width=3082&height=4630","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South%20Africa_Wildlife%20Holiday_magdalena-kula-manchee-vvBUl1mq71s-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South Africa_Wildlife Holiday_magdalena-kula-manchee-vvBUl1mq71s-unsplash.jpg?width=6720&height=4480","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South%20Africa_Wildlife%20Holiday_wade-lambert-VfdOzbZkW1w-unsplash-2.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/kwazulu-natal-safaris\/South Africa_Wildlife Holiday_wade-lambert-VfdOzbZkW1w-unsplash-2.jpg?width=5184&height=3456","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 588 [rgt] => 589 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/kwazulu-natal-safaris [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 17-24C
Rainfall - 100mm/month
[featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [12] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The KwaZulu-Natal Midlands [oldid] => 7146 [alias] => the-kwazulu-natal-midlands [id] => 326 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Midlands is a pretty area of rolling countryside north-west of Durban, reminiscent of Warwickshire or Wiltshire, but with more sun. It was this quality that led many of the English settler gentry to take large farms here, and it was also an important staging post for Imperial troops making their way from Durban up to the theatres of the Boer and Zulu wars. This has left the region with a strangely British feeling to it. Stud farms are dotted with trout fishing dams, there are small breweries and many craft stalls and shops. The Midlands abuts the Drakensberg Mountains, and it's from here that you'd head up the Sani Pass towards Lesotho and the highest pub in Africa; you'll also find San rock-art in the foothills and mountains. The Midlands today has pitched itself as a gourmet retreat: you'll find gorgeous homesteads and boutique hotels here, offering luxurious accommodation and absolutely amazing food. It's a great way to either kick off or conclude a visit to KwaZulu-Natal.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Mooi River, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -29.2106317 [long] => 30.0029571999999 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/IZL_Zulu_Dancers.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/KwaZulu-Natal%20Midlands_Sani%20Pass_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/KwaZulu-Natal Midlands_Sani Pass_Unsplash.jpg?width=4032&height=3024","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Sani Pass to Lesotho","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/KwaZulu-Natal%20Midlands%20-%20Sani%20Pass%20-%20iStock-936440996.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/KwaZulu-Natal Midlands - Sani Pass - iStock-936440996.jpg?width=3988&height=2989","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Sani Pass to Lesotho","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/Kwazulu-Natal_Zulu%20women_iStock-157478738.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/Kwazulu-Natal_Zulu women_iStock-157478738.jpg?width=4200&height=2800","image_focus":"center","caption":"KwaZulu-Natal smiles","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/remi-prevost-9uiZCl9zz0o-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/remi-prevost-9uiZCl9zz0o-unsplash.jpg?width=4032&height=3024","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/Drakensberg%20amphitheature%20-%20smaller%200%20iStock-166210726.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands\/Drakensberg amphitheature - smaller 0 iStock-166210726.jpg?width=1254&height=836","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 590 [rgt] => 591 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-kwazulu-natal-midlands [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 13-22C
Rainfall - 70mm/month
[featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [13] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Durban [oldid] => 7104 [alias] => durban [id] => 325 [state] => 1 [content] =>

Durban is principally a gateway to the attractions of KwaZulu-Natal, thanks to its brand new international airport, built for the 2010 FIFA World Cup. There is also the new football stadium, next door to the older rugby stadium where you could enjoy the special atmosphere of a home game for the Sharks Super 14 rugby team. The long beaches, washed with excellent surf, are a mecca for those who like their sun and watersports, whilst the uShaka Marine Park is excellent, with a water park, aquarium set in sunken ships, shops, restaurants and even pools where you can snorkel with the aquarium fish and even cage dive with its sharks. Northern Durban is where the suburbs of Umhlanga and Ballito can be found, pleasant neighbourhoods with some nice guesthouses. Its also where the Natal Sharks Board can be found; they are responsible for the shark nets that protect Durban's beaches, and try to educate people about these amazing creatures.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -29.8586803999999 [long] => 31.0218403999999 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban_iStock-1384350686.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban_iStock-1384350686.jpg?width=3024&height=4032","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/pier-2760513_1280.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/durban\/pier-2760513_1280.jpg?width=1280&height=853","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban%20beach_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban beach_Unsplash.jpg?width=4000&height=2250","image_focus":"center","caption":"Durban beach","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban%20Pier_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban Pier_Unsplash.jpg?width=5184&height=2916","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images7":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban_Beach%202_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban_Beach 2_Unsplash.jpg?width=3024&height=4032","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/durban-1557767_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images8":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban_2_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/durban\/Durban_2_Unsplash.jpg?width=5472&height=3648","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/sunset-341529_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/durban\/surf-876240_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 592 [rgt] => 593 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/durban [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 17-24C
Rainfall - 80mm/month
Water Temp. - 24C [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [14] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Wild Coast [oldid] => 7063 [alias] => the-wild-coast [id] => 324 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Wild Coast is slowly starting to develop for visitors but the infrastructure is light, the services simple and the scenery absolutely breathtaking. Stretching from East London up to the border of KwaZulu-Natal, it is the heartland of the Xhosa people. Here they still lead a predominantly rural lifestyle, and as you bump along dusty roads, you'll see their vegetable patches surrounded by natural fences of prickly aloes, and see them herding their cattle on horseback. As well as the chance to learn more about the Xhosa, the great attraction is the coastline. Hikes travel along vast stretches of beach, crossing placid river mouths that have bottled up behind sand dunes to form coastal lagoons. At Hole in the Wall, the waves have bored a huge arch through an offshore island, surging through with a crashing roar, whilst at Port St John, a broad, greasy river cuts through thick bush and the twin towering mountains that guard the town, a scene more like the tropical jungles of Asia. The town of Umtata, inland from the coast, is where Nelson Mandela came from and which has a Nelson Mendela museum you can visit. The Wild Coast offers a slice of scenery and everyday life that is amongst the most unchanged and unspoilt in the country, and because of this is a really rewarding place to visit for those who want to see South Africa beyond the normal tourist destinations.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Hadeda Way, Amatola Coastal, 5272, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -32.7582521730089 [long] => 28.25986065 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The%20Wild%20Coast_GMH.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The Wild Coast_GMH.jpg?width=2356&height=1572","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The%20Wild%20Coast%20arthur-hickinbotham-lEOVk7fBccQ-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The Wild Coast arthur-hickinbotham-lEOVk7fBccQ-unsplash.jpg?width=5184&height=2912","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/south-africa-1037344_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/coast-344405_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The%20Wild%20Coast%20joshua-gaunt-foB8u91Kgrc-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The Wild Coast joshua-gaunt-foB8u91Kgrc-unsplash.jpg?width=4000&height=2250","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The%20Wild%20Coast_joshua-gaunt-BiOg4WqIhVo-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The Wild Coast_joshua-gaunt-BiOg4WqIhVo-unsplash.jpg?width=4480&height=2127","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The%20Wild%20Coast_arthur-hickinbotham-yPNSw1n0zqc-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-wild-coast\/The Wild Coast_arthur-hickinbotham-yPNSw1n0zqc-unsplash.jpg?width=4659&height=2912","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 594 [rgt] => 595 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-wild-coast [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 15-22C
Rainfall - 76mm/month
Water Temp. - 23C [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [15] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Eastern Cape Safaris [oldid] => 6914 [alias] => eastern-cape-safaris [id] => 323 [state] => 1 [content] =>

Its location at the end of the popular Garden Route means that the Eastern Cape is where many people choose to experience safari in South Africa: a simple drive from Plettenberg Bay or Knysna, rather than a flight to one of the other safari areas. It is an area of rolling hills covered in low bush and scrub, cut through with the occasional spectacular canyon or ridge offering amazing views over the surrounding landscape. The largest reserve here is the Addo Elephant National Park, and there are numerous private reserves as well, the largest of which is the famous Shamwari Game Reserve. The Big Five have been reintroduced in all the parks and reserves we would recommend, however the Eastern Cape does have one or two species it is perhaps best known for. Cheetah sightings are good in this part of the world, and the Addo was originally created to protect elephants, as the name suggests. Less common antelope like the red hartebeest can also be seen quite easily. As well as traditional safari drives, some places offer walking safaris, horse-back safaris, and you can self-drive in the Addo. The Eastern Cape is also rich in early European settler history, and you can explore this either on your own or in the company of an expert guide and raconteur.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => N2, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -33.467764637965 [long] => 26.1503220693359 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images7":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/Eastern%20Cape_Giraffe_Safariwolfgang-hasselmann-zk3uqyi-YPo-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/Eastern Cape_Giraffe_Safariwolfgang-hasselmann-zk3uqyi-YPo-unsplash.jpg?width=6000&height=4000","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/Addo%20Elephant%20Park%20-%20SA%20-%20patrick-baum-ybPRyOfroZA-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/Addo Elephant Park - SA - patrick-baum-ybPRyOfroZA-unsplash.jpg?width=4288&height=2848","image_focus":"center","caption":"Addo Elephant Park, Eastern Cape Safari","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/lioness-2801379_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/Addo%20Elephant%20Park%20-%20wolfgang-hasselmann-ny8DoR0IezI-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/Addo Elephant Park - wolfgang-hasselmann-ny8DoR0IezI-unsplash.jpg?width=5747&height=3831","image_focus":"center","caption":"Addo Elephant Park, Eastern Cape Safari","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/game-drive-amakhala-web21.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images8":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/Addo%20Elephant%20Park%20-%20patrick-baum-evDuzZd8Kc0-unsplash-2.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/Addo Elephant Park - patrick-baum-evDuzZd8Kc0-unsplash-2.jpg?width=4288&height=2848","image_focus":"center","caption":"Addo Elephant Park","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/eastern-cape-safaris\/20160219-_MG_7187.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 596 [rgt] => 597 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/eastern-cape-safaris [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 18-27C
Rainfall - 40mm/month [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [16] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Oudtshoorn & The Klein Karoo [oldid] => 6722 [alias] => oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo [id] => 321 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Karoo is the vast heart of South Africa where few people live and fewer visit, in part because it is an inhospitable, arid land. However the Klein Karoo allows the inquisitive traveller to experience life on the fringes of this remarkable region. It feels a bit like a land time forgot. Dusty roads carve over red sandstone mountains where folded strata tell a story millions of years old, hiding quaint Victorian towns and the dramatic Cango Caves. This system of caverns is easily accessible and boasts some amazing stalactite and stalagmite formations, imaginatively lit to make the most of their remarkable setting. Ostrich farms are everywhere, a quirk of the Victorian craze for ostrich feathers, whilst the region is also where the best South African port is grown. The real attraction of this part of South Africa is its contrast to the nearby Garden Route. Tourism hasn't penetrated as deeply here, and the pace of life is noticeably slower. The scenery is more stark and imposing and whether you choose to stay here or visit from the Garden Route, it's well worth your time.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Oudtshoorn, Western Cape, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -33.6007225 [long] => 22.2026346999999 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo\/Oudtshoorn%20%20the%20Klein%20Karoo_GMH.png#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo\/Oudtshoorn the Klein Karoo_GMH.png?width=2202&height=1586","image_focus":"center","caption":"Oudtshoorn","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo\/emu-2689273.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo\/Oudtshoorn%20%20the%20Klein%20Karoo_Cango%20Caves_Excursion_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo\/Oudtshoorn the Klein Karoo_Cango Caves_Excursion_Unsplash.jpg?width=5184&height=3456","image_focus":"center","caption":"Cango Caves, Oudtshoorn","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo\/die-hel-fb1.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo\/port-de-krans-fb2.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo\/meerkat-adventure-fb1.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 598 [rgt] => 599 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/oudtshoorn-the-klein-karoo [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 19-32C
Rainfall - 15mm/month
[featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [17] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Mauritius [oldid] => 9982 [alias] => mauritius [id] => 336 [state] => 1 [content] =>

Surrounded by crystal-clear turquoise waters and immaculate white sandy beaches, Mauritius is justifiably the perfect island getaway. Time here is not reserved only for honeymooners – Mauritius is ideal either as a treat-yourself moment after days spent exploring the South African wilderness or as a stand-alone beach break for any kind of traveller. With over 2,000 square kilometres of the island to explore, you not only have a choice of beaches to lose yourself on but also 800-metre-high mountains and expansive forests to reconnect with and seek out resident wildlife, such as the Crab-eating macaque, Mauritius pink pigeon and the giant tortoise.

The island is surrounded by one of the largest unbroken barrier reef systems, so you can snorkel over coral seascapes and immerse yourself in memorable dive sites. Alternatively, for the more adrenaline-seeking traveller, head to the south-west coast for some wind and kite-surfing. With an abundance of stylish resorts ranging from the super-luxury to the small and characterful the island of Mauritius is accessible to all.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Mauritius Island, Mauritius, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -20.3 [long] => 57.5833333 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius_iStock-1301772394.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius_iStock-1301772394.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"Mauritius","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius-coast.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"Mauritius","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius-waterfall.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius-waterfall.jpg?width=1920&height=1283","image_focus":"center","caption":"Mauritius waterfall","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Riviere%20Noire%20District%20Mauritius_pexels-alex-1858121-3446207.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Riviere Noire District Mauritius_pexels-alex-1858121-3446207.jpg?width=3968&height=2976","image_focus":"center","caption":"Riviere Noire District, Mauritius","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius-boats.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius-coastline.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius-waterfall.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images7":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Seven%20Colored%20Earth%20on%20Chamarel%20in%20Mauritius_iStock-1365824548.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Seven Colored Earth on Chamarel in Mauritius_iStock-1365824548.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"Seven Coloured Earth, Chamarel, Mauritius","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images8":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius_xavier-coiffic-ByAHlRiTQjo-unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/mauritius\/Mauritius_xavier-coiffic-ByAHlRiTQjo-unsplash.jpg?width=5472&height=3648","image_focus":"center","caption":"Mauritius","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 600 [rgt] => 601 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/mauritius [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours direct from London Gatwick (Mon, Fri and Sat) [weather] => Average Temp: 25oC
Rainfall: 170mm (Dec - Apr) & 65mm (May - Nov)
Average Water Temp: 25oC [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => africa [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [18] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Mozambique [oldid] => 10416 [alias] => mozambique [id] => 338 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The long white sandy beaches, swaying palms and turquoise seas of southern Mozambique offer an unspoilt and idyllic beach escape. This is not an area of resorts and golf courses, it is an escape to pristine shores, open ocean and individual beach lodges.

The warm tropical waters of the Bazaruto Archipelago Marine Sanctuary are an ecological paradise that offers fantastic diving and snorkelling opportunities. The park is a sanctuary for over 2000 species of fish, dolphins, turtles and the last viable population of dugongs in the western Indian Ocean. Further south there are three more nature reserves and two marine reserves offering more pristine reefs, although please be aware that diving opportunities depend on where you are staying.

From Vilanculos and the Bazaruto Archipelago south to Maputo there are a number of accommodation options to suit a range of budgets. Still relatively unsophisticated and undeveloped compared to other beach destinations around the world this is an area perfect for those seeking a more off-the-beaten-track coastal experience and makes a perfect beach add-on to any South Africa itinerary.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Vilanculos, Mozambique, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -21.9997305 [long] => 35.3191889 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-467203467.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-156952357-scaled.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-149110068-scaled.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-1178101953.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-1204629638.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-1247250728.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-1316959889.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images7":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-1316960110.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images8":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-1372759300.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images9":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/mozambique\/iStock-1389112152-scaled.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 602 [rgt] => 603 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/mozambique [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 1.5 hours direct from Johannesburg (daily) or 50 minutes direct from Nelspruit Airport (Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun) to Vilancoulous. [weather] => Average Temp: 25°C - 27°C in the summer and 20°C - 23°C in winter
Rainfall: Maximum average monthly rainfall occurs in January (125.8 mm) and the minimum (13.1 mm) occurs in August.
Average Water Temp: 27.5°C [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [19] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Overberg [oldid] => 6642 [alias] => the-overberg [id] => 320 [state] => 1 [content] =>

Linking Cape Town and The Garden Route is a key part of most people's trips to South Africa, but it needn't be a six-hour slog along the N2 motorway, or involve a flight. Instead, take the time to explore the Overberg region that lies between the two, and turn a simple transfer into one of the highlights of your holiday. The back roads from the Winelands down to the N2 merit exploration, the scenery is impressive and ever-changing. Hiding here you'll find the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. This enormous tract of land has the sort of landscape that makes you run out of superlatives, and you'll pretty much have it to yourself. Add in the white lions, and other wildlife, and it becomes a very special place. Further along the N2, break your journey to see the De Hoop Nature Reserve, one of South Africa's least-known reserves. Here vegetated dunes slip down on to white sand beaches where whales can be seen from the shore. Cycle or walk through the delicate fynbos vegetation, keeping an eye out for ostriches, bontebok, or the enormous eland antelope. Staying in nearby Swellendam is a great option, or try the newly-opened accommodation right in the heart of the reserve. The beauty of the landscape and the proximity of the wildlife in the Overberg region easily matches that of the more famous Garden Route, so it's worth stopping whilst everyone else hurtles through missing this little gem of a region.

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Rainfall - 30mm/month
Water Temp. - 17C [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [20] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Cape Peninsula [oldid] => 6580 [alias] => the-cape-peninsula [id] => 319 [state] => 1 [content] =>

Most first-time visitors to South Africa will spend a few nights in Cape Town and travel down the Cape Peninsula as a day-trip. However there are some notable advantages to actually staying somewhere on the peninsula, not least of which is that it becomes that bit easier to explore the attractions of this amazing stretch of land. The peninsula has a wealth of small villages, attractive bays and beaches, nature trails and wildlife to explore and enjoy: they can never all be covered in a daytrip from Cape Town, but those staying amongst it all can potter round it all at their leisure. And whilst no-one can deny the impressive backdrop and views in Cape Town, the vistas from your room on the peninsula are likely to be just as stunning, and that bit more wild. Staying on the peninsula is also a good option for those who prefer a gentler pace of life. The towns and villages here are generally sleepy places, but thankfully provide well for visitors, with decent restaurants and shops. There is an awful lot to be said for spending a few days on the Cape Peninsula: it really is one of the most beautiful areas of the country that really invites you to get under its skin and appreciate its natural beauty.

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Rainfall - 40mm/month
Water Temp. - 17C [featured_holidays] => 105,108,114,104 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [21] => stdClass Object ( [title] => Hermanus & The Whale Coast [oldid] => 6494 [alias] => hermanus-the-whale-coast [id] => 318 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The typical image of whale watching is being wrapped in oilskins and fleeces against foul and freezing weather on a small boat. Picture instead sitting on a sun-drenched restaurant patio, sipping a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, and watching southern right whales and their calves playing in the ocean in front of you, just yards off shore. Thanks to the steeply shelving cliffs of the Whale Coast shoreline, this is exactly what happens between July and November. Boat trips out to see the whales are always popular, and it is from here that the more intrepid can go cage diving with great white sharks. There's more to the Whale Coast than massive or terrifying marine life, and the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley now boasts some of South Africa's most sought-after wine estates, whilst Saturday craft markets are also popular in the area. The Whale Coast stretches from Cape Town around the edge of Walker Bay down to Cape Agulhas, and this exhilarating cliff-top road, made more exciting by the chance of spotting whales, really is one of the most memorable drives in South Africa. At Cape Agulhas you are as far south as it is possible to go on the African continent, and at the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => Hermanus, Western Cape, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -34.4092004 [long] => 19.2504436 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus%20and%20the%20Whale%20Coast_Whale%20Watching_Excursion_iStock-1938857265.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus and the Whale Coast_Whale Watching_Excursion_iStock-1938857265.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images7":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus%20and%20the%20Whale%20Coast_Stock-1088169824.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus and the Whale Coast_Stock-1088169824.jpg?width=2121&height=1414","image_focus":"center","caption":"Hermanus","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus%20and%20the%20Whale%20Coast_Old%20Town%20Road%20Hermanus_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus and the Whale Coast_Old Town Road Hermanus_Unsplash.jpg?width=4032&height=3024","image_focus":"center","caption":"Hermanus","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images8":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus%20and%20the%20Whale%20Coast_2_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus and the Whale Coast_2_Unsplash.jpg?width=6000&height=4000","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Whale Coast","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images9":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus%20and%20the%20Whale%20Coast_Whale%20Tail_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus and the Whale Coast_Whale Tail_Unsplash.jpg?width=2795&height=1865","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Whale Coast","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images10":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/wal-2882898_1280.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/wal-2882898_1280.jpg?width=1280&height=853","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/hermanus-1781907_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images11":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus%20and%20the%20Whale%20Coast_Whale_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/Hermanus and the Whale Coast_Whale_Unsplash.jpg?width=2879&height=4318","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/south-africa-1206988_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/south-africa-2529405_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/20151024_122210.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/hermanus-the-whale-coast\/20151024_124300.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 608 [rgt] => 609 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/hermanus-the-whale-coast [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 16-25C
Rainfall - 50mm / month
Water Temp. - 16C [featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [22] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Cederberg Mountains & Namaqualand [oldid] => 6452 [alias] => the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand [id] => 317 [state] => 1 [content] =>

North of Cape Town heading towards the sparsely populated Northern Cape Province is an area of South Africa that feels more wild and remote than almost any other. In the Cederberg Mountains jagged rock formations hide beautiful valleys, and nestled under cliff edges you find amazing traces of the original indigenous inhabitants of South Africa, the San. Their rock-art dates back millennia and is eerily reminiscent of the rock-art of other indigenous cultures the world over, and is equally moving. You’ll also find herds of game here: the Cape Mountain zebra, the bontebok, and the red hartebeest, animals that are magnificent to watch, but typically get overlooked in the famous game reserves in the dash to get a glimpse of the Big Five. Continuing north you come to Namaqualand. It’s most famous for the stunning spring flower displays, but there’s so much more than just this somewhat unpredictable event to see here, whether it’s 4x4 drives along miles and miles of deserted beach, punctuated only by the rusting hulls of shipwrecked vessels, or visits to the legendary De Beers diamond mine. Not a typical stop on most South African itineraries, this area really does deserve closer attention, especially from those who want solitude, open skies and an intriguing glimpse into a very different South Africa.

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[checked_out] => [locationaddress] => R363, South Africa [checked_out_time] => [created_by] => 108 [lat] => -31.8735688848737 [long] => 18.792234046875 [modified_by] => 110 [images] => {"images2":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/Cederberg%20Mountains_iStock-1589096025.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/Cederberg Mountains_iStock-1589096025.jpg?width=2212&height=1355","image_focus":"center","caption":"Namaqualand spring flowers","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images0":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/Game-drive-Bushmans-web4.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images3":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/The%20Cederberg%20Mountains%20and%20Namaqualand_4%20_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/The Cederberg Mountains and Namaqualand_4 _Unsplash.jpg?width=6240&height=4160","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Cederberg Mountains","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images4":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/Namaqualand%20South%20Africa.png#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/Namaqualand South Africa.png?width=1046&height=1534","image_focus":"center","caption":"Namaqualand","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images1":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/sandstone-2011000_1280.jpg","image_focus":"center","caption":"","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images5":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/The%20Cederberg%20Mountaint%20and%20Namaqualand_2_Unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/The Cederberg Mountaint and Namaqualand_2_Unsplash.jpg?width=3888&height=2592","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Cederberg Mountains","imagedescription":"","videolink":""},"images6":{"mediatype":"image","image":"images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/The%20Cederberg%20Mountains%20and%20Namaqualand_unsplash.jpg#joomlaImage:\/\/local-images\/south-africa\/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand\/The Cederberg Mountains and Namaqualand_unsplash.jpg?width=4000&height=2250","image_focus":"center","caption":"The Cederberg Mountains","imagedescription":"","videolink":""}} [parent_id] => 18 [lft] => 610 [rgt] => 611 [level] => 2 [access] => 1 [path] => south-africa/the-cederberg-mountains-namaqualand [whentogo] => [flighttime] => 12 hours from London [weather] => Average Temp. - 13-25C
Rainfall - 15mm / month
[featured_holidays] => 0 [expert_comment] => [] [reviews] => [] [featured_excursions] => [about_text] => [faq_block] => [] [region_alias] => [travel_guide_download_link] => [time_difference] => [dialing_code] => [capital_city] => [language] => [currency] => [illustration_left] => [illustration_right] => [quoteimage] => [map] => ) [23] => stdClass Object ( [title] => The Winelands [oldid] => 6325 [alias] => the-winelands [id] => 316 [state] => 1 [content] =>

The Winelands refers to a beautiful area of South Africa to the north and east of Cape Town. As the name suggests it is famous for its vineyards, but in truth there is much more to the region than this. There are two main towns in the Winelands and each has a very contrasting character. Stellenbosch is a university town, and so has a young vibe, with great bars and cafes, but it also very historic, with pretty Cape Dutch buildings dating back 300 years. Franschhoek, whilst it does have its roots in the French Huguenot refugees of the 17th century, feels more modern, with art galleries and a real gourmet foodie culture. Wine tasting is high on the list of things to do, but don't settle for just tasting it; make it part of a tour with a renowned local raconteur and wine historian, or do it on horseback, or perhaps try some of the more unusual pairings on offer like wine and chocolate tasting. You should also make time to enjoy the scenery: some of the mountain passes, like the Hellshoogte Pass and the Franschhoek Pass are well worth the drive. The Winelands offers more than enough attractions to keep both the first-time visitor and seasoned South Africa buff happy.

[ordering] => 0 [shortdescription] => We tailor holidays for your specific needs. From excursions to flights to hotels, we've got you covered.
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Rainfall - 20mm / month
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About South Africa

South Africa is a wonderful country and offers an amazing, diverse and fascinating range of experiences that make it one of the best holiday destinations anywhere in the world. It’s an often-repeated cliché that a country has “something for everyone” but South Africa is one of those countries that really fits the description. Its big secret is to appeal to such a broad range of tastes: you have fantastic and vibrant cities with great shopping, bars, cafés and restaurants; there are legendary wildlife experiences to be had whilst on safari; there is incredible history from the evocative battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift through to the more recent upheaval of apartheid and its demise; for families there are all manner of attractions, from cute penguins, to intimate animal encounters, harbour cruises and vast beaches to use as a playground whilst for the wine lover there are hundreds of great estates to taste or visit. And running through it all is the landscape, sometimes green and lush, sometimes golden and foreboding, covering everything from gentle sand dunes through iconic mountains to dramatic river canyons and tumbling waterfalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

The south of the country (around Cape Town and The Garden Route) is best in our winter, from October through April, when temperatures will be in the early to mid-twenties Celsius and rainfall is at its lowest. If you travel out of season, you’ll still not experience terrible weather – it would be like late spring or early autumn for us, and the prices are a bit lower too!

The north of the country, from the Kruger across to the Madikwe is warm (early to mid-twenties Celsius) and dry in our summer, and hot (early thirties Celsius) and wet in our winter – but you can visit year-round, as the rain tends to be focussed in short, heavy bursts in the late afternoon, rather than endless drizzle!

KwaZulu-Natal has an almost tropical climate. In our winter, it’s not a great time to travel as it gets hot and very wet – with twice as much monthly rainfall as a typical month in the UK. However, in our summer (when the south of South Africa isn’t at its best) it’s lovely with temperatures in the late teens / early twenties Celsius and rainfall is minimal. It’s also the only stretch of South African coastline with pleasant temperatures in the mid-twenties Celsius rather than the positively chilly late teens seen along the rest of the coast.

South African food is incredibly good, cheap and plentiful: It's almost impossible to not eat exceptionally well on a South Africa holiday! For casual lunches and dinners, you can pick almost any restaurant you see and know you’ll get a decent meal for less than £10 a head. And if you want to push the boat out, there are some world-class restaurants to choose from, where a tasting menu paired with wines costs £40-£50 per head – and this is for food of a Michelin-star standard!

With thousands of kilometres of coastline, it’s no surprise that fresh seafood is a delight in South Africa. Similarly, with vast areas of the country dedicated to livestock and game farming, it's easy to see why meat is a staple of the South African diet. Produce is always fresh and the main influence on cuisine is classical European cooking. There are Indian and Cape Malay influences as well, in dishes like the lightly-spiced bobotie.

South African wine

South African wines are superb, and, in addition to “typical” South African grapes like Pinotage and Chenin Blanc, they also produce excellent Bordeaux-style blends, as well as increasingly sophisticated wines made from all major grape varieties. Some estates have become rightly famous, and with it their price tags have risen: the trick is to find a similar but less well-known estate where a very similar wine will be that little bit cheaper, and give you bragging rights! We're here to help with that! 

The main choice facing the traveller to South Africa is whether to fly direct or indirect. The direct flights are more expensive, but the indirect flights (usually via Europe, Istanbul or the Gulf) are longer – much longer in the case of flights via the Gulf. When you consider that the direct flight time is 11-12 hours, you don’t want to add too much to this otherwise it becomes an incredibly long journey!

UK passport holders don't need a visa to visit South Africa for tourism. Other nationalities should check with the South African embassy or consulate.

Passport: Your passport should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of entry into South Africa and have at least two completely blank pages for immigration to use.

Travelling with children: Parents travelling with children under 18 on a UK passport are required to provide a valid passport to enter South Africa. If children are travelling with one or neither of the biological parents, then affidavits are required from the absent parents allowing the child to travel. Please check the South African Department of Home Affairs for more information.

As we’re not medical experts we feel it is essential you contact your G.P. regarding vaccinations and the like for travel to South Africa. What follows is some suggestions, but they must be verified by a medical professional. In addition to such vaccinations as you’d routinely have for living in the UK, further boosters are recommended for Hepatitis A, Tetanus and Diptheria. Malaria exists in the lowland areas of Mpumlanaga Province (including the Kruger), Northern Province and north-eastern KwaZulu-Natal in an area including the wildlife reserves and the Elephant Coast. Please consult your G.P. for advice on what malarial precautions to take.

We also like these guys but again you must talk to your GP first: The Travel Doctor, an interactive website providing specialist health information for travellers plus customised lists of travel medicines, vaccines and malaria tablets for holiday makers, global adventure travellers and expeditions.

South Africa has a reputation as a dangerous country with high crime rates. Whilst crime rates are high, these are almost always perpetrated well away from areas that tourists might venture. We honestly believe that if you behave sensibly, exactly as you would when travelling to any major city or developing country, then you are no more likely to be a victim of crime than you would be almost anywhere else in the world.

In over a decade of travelling to South Africa ourselves and sending countless clients there on unforgettable holidays, there have been but a handful of incidents of minor crime. Once you get there, we're sure you'll be pleasantly surprised by how safe you feel.

Swimming in South Africa

It's possible to swim off the beaches of South Africa, however most of them have strong currents and significant surf, so we only advise swimming if there is a lifeguard on the beach. There are secluded lagoons and coves which are more sheltered and swimming is easier. Generally the further east and north towards Mozambique you get, the more pleasant the water temperature is. Around Cape Town it is the Atlantic Ocean and you’ll probably need a wetsuit all year round.

Self-driving is by far and away the best way to experience South Africa, as driving is on the left, the road network is good and traffic laws are adhered to much more than is generally the case in Africa! Self-driving also gives you the most flexibility to adapt your plans as you wish. Generally, we will book your hotels and car hire for you and make suggestions for excursions and outings to do in each place. Having a car means you can pick and mix between our suggestions and any other ideas that take your fancy, at your own schedule.

The local currency is the rand (R) and at the time of writing £1 was worth R23. Credit cards are widely accepted and ATMs are widespread, the exception being in some of the more rural areas. 

Tipping is common in South Africa. 10% is normal in restaurants, around R10 for porterage, and then a couple of rand for the unofficial car park attendants you will doubtless encounter. For guided services (including on safari) we would advise around R150 per person per day, with about R100 a day for your tracker on safari. Lodge staff can also be tipped at R50 per person per day. Drivers for your transfers can be tipped about R25 per standard airport transfer. It is important to remember that tipping is a very personal thing, and if you feel someone deserves more or less, or even no tip, then that is entirely your prerogative and you should not feel bound by these suggestions. Fuel prices are regulated, changing at the beginning of each month. Currently, prices are hovering around £0.70 per litre. Food costs are relatively low, it being possible to dine out for less than £10 per person; even if you really push the boat out you’ll seldom top £50 per person.

We believe travel should be a force for good. That means exploring with open eyes, treading lightly, and respecting the people and places that make the world so special. Our code of conduct isn’t about rules, it’s simply a guide to help you travel thoughtfully, ethically, and with care. Because every small choice makes a big difference.

  • If you choose to trust us with your holiday, we’ll send you a “Travel Facts” document when confirming your booking. This includes useful facts and travel advice, such as restaurant recommendations, reading tips, basic language information, cultural traditions, climate information, brief historical overviews, and more. We feel that this offers a useful insight and can help you interact with local residents in a more sensitive, well-informed manner. Please do try to take the time to read this information before your visit, it’s worth the time!

  • A number of the countries in which we operate holidays are religious societies with a widely observed set of customs. Always respect these norms, particularly when visiting religious buildings.

  • To the best of our knowledge, all hotels, lodges, and camps within our portfolio operate stringent measures to minimise water usage. All of our destinations have issues with water supplies to a certain extent, so feel free to raise any possible wastage should you encounter it during your stay, either with the accommodation or with us upon your return.

  • Please ask permission before taking photographs of people, and respect their wishes if they are not happy to be photographed. We find that friendly requests and a smile are usually met with a ‘yes!’

  • Strive, where possible, to make your own contribution to environmental practices as you travel. This might include minimising your electricity usage, not smoking in protected areas, avoiding coral while snorkelling, and safely disposing of all litter (recycling where possible).

  • Where possible, try to purchase from local suppliers. This includes shopping for souvenirs, dining out at restaurants, and booking additional excursions during your free time. In areas where haggling is an accepted part of daily life, don’t be offended if you’re unable to obtain what you perceive as a fair price for an item.

  • We emphasise to local suppliers that our clients should never be taken on unsolicited shopping trips, but if this does happen, try to retain your sense of humour, provide a firm refusal to participate and do let us know about it on your return. We pass on all feedback from every trip undertaken with us to our relevant local suppliers, who all share our commitment to travelling with sensitivity.

  • Please don’t remove any indigenous items from their natural habitat and attempt to bring them home as a souvenir. This particularly applies to everything from coral, shells, plants and food in the natural world, to cultural artefacts and antiques.

If you’re unsure about anything relating to the above, please feel free to chat to us. We’ve travelled extensively in the country and will be more than happy to offer our considered advice.

Key Information
Flight Time 11 hours from London
Currency South African Rand (ZAR)
Language 12 official languages including Afrikaans, Zulu & English
Dialing Code +27
Capital City Pretoria, Bloemfontein & Cape Town
Time Difference GMT +2

Meet our South Africa experts

We offer tailor-made holidays to suit a wide range of tastes. Our experts Catherine, Kirsty and Lisa are dedicated to all things South Africa and are here to help you plan your perfect trip.

Catherine Williams
Catherine Williams
Destination Manager

Catherine fell for Africa in 2000 and has been back countless times ever since. With South Africa being one of her favourite spots, she’s your go-to for everything from self-drives to safaris, hikes and vineyards.

Kirsty Leggate
Kirsty Leggate
Destination Manager

With family living just outside Kruger National Park, Kirsty’s been travelling to South Africa for more than 20 years. From solo trips to family adventures, she knows the country inside out, and always finds new reasons to return.

Lisa Dyboll
Lisa Dyboll
Destination Manager

Our resident South African, our Lisa really has spent a lifetime exploring the country. Especially fond of Kruger, coastal drives and any excuse for a well-earned sundowner with a view, she brings real passion and knowledge to every holiday she plans.

What You're Saying

Our recent family holiday to South Africa, expertly organised with the assistance of Holiday Architects, was an unforgettable experience. The journey exceeded all expectations, offering phenomenal moments from start to finish. The service provided by their team was exceptional, with a special mention to Catherine, who was absolutely outstanding. I wholeheartedly recommend Holiday Architects to anyone looking for a meticulously planned and extraordinary travel experience. Their team’s expertise and commitment to excellence truly set them apart.

Gurkirat Sidhu Trustpilot
Excellent company to deal with. Lisa Dyboll pulled together an exceptional South African itinerary for us and was available to us throughout our trip. We had one tiny issue and she dealt with it swiftly and effectively. Lisa totally understood our requirements and put together a perfect trip. I would highly recommend Holiday Architects and we will certainly use them for future trips and a special mention for Lisa Dyboll who has incredible knowledge of South Africa.

Sue Atherton Trustpilot
We had a wonderful 2-week trip to South Africa organised by Kirsty from Holiday Architects. Everything was perfect: the fact that she listened to our vague ideas of what we wanted to do and then came back with very thoughtful suggestions. We followed her guidance and could not have been more delighted with our experience! It was all very personal and the attention to detail was excellent - from pre-trip briefings to a lovely welcome back phone call seeking feedback. The accommodation throughout our road trip was top quality and the suggested activities were brilliant. We would definitely recommend!

Ange Trustpilot
We had a fabulous holiday in South Africa. Catherine at Holiday Architects really listened to what we wanted to achieve in our 10 days there and planned an itinerary that was pitched perfectly for us. The hotel in Cape Town, Bed and Breakfast in Franschoek and the lodge in Amakhala were all extremely comfortable and the transfers between the three and the airports were like clockwork. We were provided with links and information to book tours and trips while we were there. We will definitely be using Holiday Architects again, the only problem will be picking the destination as there are many exciting trips to chose from!

Mrs Helen Watts Trustpilot
We have just returned from a 6 week epic adventure in South Africa and Mozambique , put together by Lisa Dyboll at Holiday Architects . She put up with my endless changes and requests and the end result was outstanding . To have a company take such time in ensuring we got exactly the trip with the right balances of budget and experience was amazing. Lisa gave us excellent advice and steered us away from potentially stupid ideas! We will absolutely use them again as their expert knowledge and service was invaluable.

Rona Hulbert Trustpilot
The most amazing and memorable trip to South Africa. Catherine organised the perfect itinerary for us, listening to our requirements and booking accommodation which completely suited our needs. The attention to detail from initial phone call with Catherine, to the final documents listing detailed driving instructions, restaurant recommendations, excursion recommendations etc etc was first rate. We had an issue with the hire car on day 2, this proved no problem at all and Catherine arranged (with local ground team) to replace the car first thing the following morning. This was our second trip with Holiday Architects and I look forward to booking our third trip sometime soon!

LennonJ Trustpilot
Kirsty @ Holiday Architects helped us to plan an amazing trip to Kwazulu-Natal in South Africa. We'd found the area we wanted to visit but were uncertain about the self-drive suitability but Kirsty was able to give first hand insight and experience of the area and many of the places we ended up visiting which was invaluable, giving us a really good balance of mountains, safari, lakes & coast that suited us perfectly. Everything went very smoothly - we would absolutely use Holiday Architects again.

Nick Trowell Trustpilot
Top marks go to Lisa who arranged our holiday to Cape Town and the Garden Route. All the places we stayed were amazing and the driving directions were perfect. I would definitely recommend this company to anyone who wants a great holiday.

Richard Trustpilot
We used Holiday Architects to book our honeymoon to South Africa last May. We honestly couldn't recommend them enough. Kirsty was so knowledgeable and helpful. She listened to exactly what we wanted and planned the perfect itinerary for us. Kirsty planned everything - flights, accommodation, draft excursions, restaurants and tips & advice. Kirsty is a regular visitor to SA and so her recommendations were personal and well-thought out which we really appreciated. We would definitely use the company again and would recommend them to anyone. Holiday of a lifetime thanks to Kirsty!!

Jemma Coulter Trustpilot

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