South Africa

South Africa is one of the most accessible and diverse countries in Africa, boasting that it has something for everyone. There are amazing mountain ranges, the opportunity to see the big-five in a number of different places, combined with a unique culture that is unmatched in the region.

Cape Town is the gateway to the Garden Route, the famous drive from the city along the coast through Knysna and through to Port Elizabeth. A stay in Cape Town wouldn’t be complete without taking the cable car up to Table Mountain, or seeing the penguins on Boulders Beach. Enroute, why not stop in the Winelands at one of the many vineyards for a night or two, and understand how they make their award-winning wines.

Safaris are also a massive part of a holiday to South Africa. The most famous, the Kruger National Park is a flight away from Jo’burg and is home to some of the most luxurious safari camps around – some with their own airstrip. A family-friendly option, which doesn’t require Malaria tablets would be Madikwe, just a drive from Jo’burg, or Shamwari along the Cape.

There is so much to see and do in South Africa, that just going once isn’t enough. We recommend exploring one section first, before going back and exploring somewhere else.

BEST TIME TO VISIT

WINTER – Perfect winter destination, especially on the south coast. Our summer can be wet and rainy.

FLIGHT TIME

Around 11 hours direct to either Cape Town or Johannesburg

TIME ZONE

GMT/BST +1

CURRENCY

South African Rand

IDEAL FOR

Food lovers, nature lovers and those who like to explore.

HOW TO GET THERE

Direct flights to both Cape Town and Johannesburg are available year-round from Heathrow Airport, flights to Durban can be taken with Emirates via Dubai.

LANGUAGE

There are 13 official languages in South Africa – including English which is widely spoken.

IDEAL TO COMBINE WITH

Head for the beach in Mauritius, just a four-hour flight away – or maybe to Victoria Falls?