While perhaps best known for its immense natural beauty, the scenery is only the beginning of South Africa's never-ending attraction. Along with rolling winelands, rocky mountainscapes, parched savannahs and urban cities, this country of contrasts houses 21 national parks, eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites and over 1,500 miles of charming coastline, along with culture, history and friendly faces by the bucketload. So, however and wherever you choose to explore, we promise you'll find something extraordinary around every corner.
City Chic
With iconic Table Mountain as a dominating backdrop, Cape Town intertwines the country's natural beauty with museums, galleries, boutiques and a thriving café culture. Ascending to the mountain's flat-topped peak by cable car is undeniably one of the region's favoured activities, affording breathtaking vistas upon arrival, but this colourful city is equally enticing closer to sea level.
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Cape Town
Uncover the story of Nelson Mandela with a boat trip to nearby Robben Island, stroll through Kirstenbosch Gardens - named 'the most beautiful garden in Africa' - or explore the 450 stores of the vibrant V&A Waterfront complex, before stopping for lunch in the mouthwatering food market. The city is also a must-visit for art aficionados, housing some of Africa's most innovative artists, along with architectural and design wonders, including brightly coloured facades in Bo-Kaap and striking street art in Woodstock.
Wine And Dine
Incredible diversity brings exciting new flavours to the table when it comes to the country's cuisine, too. From Indian spices to traditional Japanese sushi, menus are infused with mouthwatering dishes and ingredients from various cultures. Food markets in Cape Town are packed with artisan bakeries and farm-to-table eateries, and while the Michelin Guide is yet to reach South Africa, connoisseurs won't be disappointed by the country's ever-evolving fine dining scene.
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Cape Winelands
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Franschhoek Wine Tram
Of course, the centuries-old vineyards and historic cellar doors of the Cape Winelands aren't to be forgotten. Stunning Stellenbosch houses nearly 200 wine and grape producers, along with the country's oldest wine route, while 'culinary capital of the Cape' Franschhoek has its very own wine tram, which will take you on a 'hop-on/hop-off' tour of South Africa's oldest and most distinguished wine estates.
A Walk On The Wild Side
From herds of wildebeest in the Serengeti to the majestic big cats of Sabi Sand, a safari - meaning 'journey' in Swahili - through South Africa will bring you face-to-face with some of the world's most spectacular species, including the African 'Big Five' of lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo. The hauntingly beautiful grasslands and glistening watering holes attract a world of wonderous wildlife, easily witnessed close-up by private game-drive or guided bush walk. The immense biodiversity of the 65,000-hectare Sabi Sands Game Reserve makes it a popular location for tracking packs of wild dogs, while the national parks of the malaria-free Eastern Cape are renowned not only for their wildlife sightings, but also for their significant conservation efforts, including Shamwari Private Game Reserve, who work in partnership with the incredible Born Free Foundation.
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Leopard
Where to stay in South Africa
Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
Owned by Sir Richard Branson, this private reserve resides in 3,500 hectares of open bush close to Kruger National Park. From treehouse-style rooms accessed via a swing bridge, to lofty suites in the perfectly perched Rock Lodge, this bush property immerses you in the very heart of South Africa, with a popular wildlife watering hole in close proximity and an enviable wine cellar showcasing some of the country's best tipples.
Mont Rochelle
Located in the gourmet capital of Franschhoek, this boutique property has been lovingly restored into a stylish winelands retreat, set in nearly 100 acres of undisturbed grounds. A catalogue of outdoor activities includes horse-riding and hiking, while the spa is idyllic for a moment of serenity. There are also two sublime restaurants to please every palate, while wine-tasting is always on the menu!
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Ulusaba Private Game Reserve
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Mont Rochelle
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Cheetah Plains Private Game Reserve
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Cheetah Plains Private Game Reserve
Accessorized with chandeliers and ultra-modern touches, this newly renovated lodge is reinventing safari accommodation. The three exclusive-use bushveld houses are decorated with South African artwork, while every house is also tended to by a private chef and butler. Every game-drive is tailored to you desire, while a DLSR camera onboard every Tesla electric vehicle provides the ultimate photography opportunity.