South Africa

Wildlife and Urban Adventures

The Republic of South Africa occupies the southernmost part of the African continent. Its landscapes are varied, and include savannahs, snow-covered mountains, forests, tropical swamps, endless beaches, tranquil rivers, lakes, sun-scorched semi-deserts, and bustling urban epicentres.

South Africa has an abundance of wildlife including the famous “big five” as well as fantastic birding and eco-tourism possibilities. However, the real heart of this vibrant country is its diverse cultural heritage. This diversity is reflected in the country’s colourful flag and nickname ‘Rainbow Nation’ which represents the country’s multicultural background.

The huge variety of landscapes, people, history, and culture offer a larger-than-life experience for the traveller in search of a truly unique and inspiring voyage.

Capital City

Pretoria, Cape Town and Bloemfontein

Currency

South African Rand

Official Languages

English, Ndebele , Pedi , Sotho , Swati , Tsonga , Tswana , Venḓa , Xhosa , Zulu and Afrikaans .

International Airport

Cape Town International Airport (Cape Town), OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg), King Shaka International Airport (Durban).

Climate

South Africa is bathed by two Oceans what creates two main different climatological areas;

  • the west part of the country (including Cape Town) under the influence of the Atlantic Ocean has a typical Mediterranean climate with warm and dry summers and rainy and cold winters;

  • the east part of the country (including Johannesburg, Kruger, Pilanesberg) under the influence of the Indian Ocean has a subtropical climate with hot and rainy summers and dry and cool winters.

South Africa is located in the Southern Hemisphere with seasons opposite to Europe or North America

  • Autumn/Fall – 1 March – 31 May.

  • Winter – 1 June – 31 August.

  • Spring – 1 September – 30 November.

  • Summer – 1 December – 28/29 February.

Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is home to the Big Five and hundreds of other mammal and bird species. Here in South Africa’s largest National Park visitors can enjoy the iconic safari experience.

Garden Route

The Garden Route is a 200km stretch of coastline that connects Mossel Bay in the west with Storms River in the east. The way is dotted with diverse landscapes and experiences, as we pass by mountains and forests with a variety of hiking trails, lakes and lagoons, and picture perfect coastal towns.

Western Cape

Cape Town, with Table Mountain as a backdrop, is regarded as one of the most beautiful cities in the world. It has a rich history and culture which is reflected in the city’s diverse architecture – from the colourful houses of Bo-Kaap to the stately buildings of the city centre. Art lovers can visit the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world, and gourmets dine in some of South Africa’s best restaurants found in the city or in the surrounding winelands.

Madikwe and Pilanesberg

Madikwe Game Reserve and Pilanesberg National Park are two easily accessible conservation areas in the North West Province near Johannesburg. The beautiful Pilanesberg has South Africa’s highest wildlife concentration and is one of the most popular game reserves for both locals and visitors. Madikwe, at the border with Botswana, offers a more private safari experience. Both reserves are malaria-free and rich with wildlife, and are home to the famous Big 5.

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