About South Africa

South Africa is a vast and diverse country, bordered to the east, north and west by the republics of Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique. South Africa means so many different things to different people. Some know it for its world-class wines, others for its spectacular wildlife. For some it’s a place of great struggle and potent history, while for others it is a place of adventure, from the thrills of Shark Alley, to the world’s highest bridge bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge. But whatever you think you know about South Africa, you should prepare to still be surprised by this incredible country of contrasts.

South Africa is emerging from its recent troubles and isolation, and retaking its place on the world stage – and it’s great to have it back. With so much to offer, this is a must visit country for every traveller. What’s more, after years in the wilderness, South Africa is delighted to welcome the world’s tourists again, and the quality of facilities and warmth of the welcome clearly shows that.

South Africa’s cities are stunning, with Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban each offering something different, and each reflecting the colonial past and the modern future of the country. Because of its central position Johannesburg is known as the gateway to Africa. This vibrant, energetic and bustling metropolis was built on gold after the 1886 gold strike and is now the country’s largest city and the financial centre. Also worth a visit is the Soweto Township, where the anti-apartheid struggles began, leading to the birth of today’s ‘Rainbow Nation’. South Africa may be a country on the up, but there are still stark divides between the haves and have-nots, and need to be prepared to witness this almost everywhere you go.

Perhaps the best way to see South Africa is in two halves, West and East. To the West lies the famous Garden Route, a hugely popular tourist drive sandwiched between the mountains and the ocean. Here you’ll find some of the finest vineyards, with most offering tastings, tours and even accommodation for visiting wine buffs and casual drinkers alike. Mild all year round, and very tourist orientated, the Garden Route includes the Whale Coast, where you can watch these magnificent creatures from the comfort and safety of the shore.

To the East lies South Africa’s famous big game parks, such as the Kruger National Park, where you can take a safari to see the legendary Big 5 - Buffalo, Lion, Elephant, Leopard and Rhino. Thankfully these days people are only hunting for the perfect picture, but the level of excitement is just as strong. There are plenty of Jeep safaris available, or you can even explore on foot for an authentic adventure.

Whatever you have thought about South Africa, think again, because it has so much more to offer than you ever thought possible.