South Africa

South Africa: A World in One Country

South Africa calls out to the intrepid spirit of travellers worldwide with its spectrum of experiences, from the wild savannahs where the Big Five roam free to the craggy cliffs at the Cape of Good Hope. This nation at the southern tip of the African continent is a symphony of cultures, cuisines, and landscapes. Each visit promises an array of moments that can range from the adrenaline-pumping to the utterly serene. Here's how to make the most of your South African adventure.exploring the Great White North.

Best Time to Travel

South Africa is a year-round destination, but the best wildlife viewing comes in the dry winter months from May to September. For beachgoers, the hot summer months from November to March are ideal.

Latest South Africa Offers

Key Places to Visit

Cape Town: With Table Mountain as its backdrop, Cape Town offers a dose of history at Robben Island, vibrant life at the V&A Waterfront, and scenic beauty at Cape Point.

Johannesburg: The heart of South Africa's economic engine, 'Jozi' is a dynamic metropolis with an edge – from its Apartheid Museum to the thriving Maboneng Precinct.

The Garden Route: A stunning coastal journey stretching from Mossel Bay to the Storms River, offering outdoor adventures and seaside tranquillity.

Kruger National Park: A world-renowned safari destination where you can witness the majesty of African wildlife in its natural habitat.

The Winelands: Explore the vine-strewn valleys of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, indulging in some of the world's finest wines.

Durban: A melting pot of cultures with a sunny climate, golden beaches, and the buzz of a seaside city.

The Drakensberg: South Africa's highest mountain range offers incredible hiking trails and the poignant beauty of the Amphitheatre cliff face.

The Wild Coast: Rugged, remote, and untamed, this stretch is a paradise for those seeking raw natural beauty.

Tips for First-time Travellers

Language: While South Africa has 11 official languages, English is widely spoken and understood.

Currency: The South African Rand (ZAR) is the local currency. Cards are accepted, but carrying cash is advisable in remote areas.

Tipping: Tipping is customary in South Africa. In restaurants, 10-15% is standard for good service.

Transport: Renting a car is often the best way to get around, offering flexibility to explore at your own pace.

Safety: Exercise the usual caution in cities and tourist areas. Keep valuables safe and be aware of your surroundings.

Health: No vaccinations are required, but it's wise to take precautions against malaria if visiting certain regions.

Stay connected: Purchase a local SIM card for affordable data and call rates.

Flying Time from the UK

The flight from London to Johannesburg takes approximately 11 hours direct, with Cape Town just over 11.5 hours away.

Capital City & Timezone

South Africa has three capitals: Pretoria (executive), Bloemfontein (judicial), and Cape Town (legislative). The country falls into the South African Standard Time Zone, which is two hours ahead of GMT without daylight saving changes.

Before you go.....

South Africa offers an extraordinary array of experiences, from spotting leopards on a twilight safari to tasting a perfectly crafted Pinotage amidst the rolling hills of a Western Cape vineyard. It's a place where every visit redefines the very essence of adventure and where every landscape whispers a new discovery. South Africa doesn't just touch the soul; it grabs it with both hands and leads it on a whirlwind journey through history, culture, and the wild heartbeat of the natural world. It's not just a holiday; it's an awakening.