10 Reasons To Holiday In South Africa

10 Reasons To Holiday In South Africa

There truly is something to suit every kind of holidaymaker in South Africa. From bustling cities like Cape Town and Durban to glorious beaches, world class wines, luxurious accommodation and incredible game reserves teeming with wildlife. Here are 10 reasons why you should think about spending  your next holiday there.


1. Marine Big 5
Whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins! Never mind the traditional Safari Big 5 sightings of the Kruger National Park area, a must stop destination is Grootbos Nature Reserve. This unique luxury getaway focuses on plant life, birds and aquatic adventures with shark cage diving, whale watching and guided walks in the fynbos all on offer.



2. Shopping
South Africans can ‘shop till they drop’! Take advantage of the incredibly good exchange rate and maximize your treats. From Sandton City to the V & A Waterfront, the coastal Gateway to the urban chic Biscuit Mill – your only limit is the weight restriction on your luggage on departure. The real investment is a South African diamond or a unique piece of gold jewellery South Africa is the ultimate for a fly in City & Safari


3. Golf Courses
Plan your holiday to South Africa around the world renowned Golf Courses located at some of the most exquisite destinations. You will be spoilt for choice - from the renowned Gary Player Golf course at Sun City to Leopards Creek set on the Crocodile River, Kruger National Park or onto Fancourt near the Wilderness Game Reserve along the stunning Garden Route …… and we haven’t even begun the list!



4. Hiking & Walking Safaris
The Otter Trail along the untouched Wild Coast in the Eastern Cape to the summits of the Drakensburg Mountain range in the interior of South Africa offer unparalleled walking trails. Or if you prefer to walk on the ‘wild’ side, the best luxury option is Rhino Post located near Skukuza Rest Camp in The Kruger National Park. The lodge is the only private concession with walking rights in the Park. A true bucket-list tick. Due to the popularity of all walking options, bookings need to be made well in advance.


5. Table Mountain
Table Mountain was declared one of the 7 Wonders of the World in 2012. The mountain defines the Mother City of Cape Town and generates a sense of pride for all South Africans. The cable cars run throughout the day ferrying visitors to the summit. The option to walk up or down the mountain is also available as well as many guided trails. The mountain is home to many species of indigenous Fynbos, birds and smaller mammal species. The panoramic vista of the coastline at the tip of the African continent is impressive. If you visit on your birthday the trip is free!



6. Historical Heritage
South Africa is filled with historical and cultural acknowledgement of a turbulent past. A trip to the country should definitely incorporate visits to some of the many museums or landmarks. In Johannesburg a cultural tour incorporating Constitutional Hill, the Apartheid Museum and Soweto is definitely a vibrant testament to the new nation. In the Cape a journey Walk in the Footsteps of Mandela to Robben Island reinforces the contribution of Nelson Mandela to present day South Africa.


7. Surfing
Surfers agree that life is a swell in South Africa! Renowned for some of the best waves in the world. From Eland’s Bay to St Francis or Durban to Long Beach, Kommetjie – not to leave out Jeffrey’s Bay! And if you’re just part of the backup team savour the sunshine and pristine beaches. All destinations offer an array of accommodation, exciting nightlife and excellent eateries.



8. Adrenaline Junkies
If you feel the need to feed the adventurer in you – South Africa is the place to be. The highest and most spectacular bungee jump in the world is at Bloukrans Bridge, Tsitsikamma Forest on the Garden Route. A sheer 216 meters drop into the gorge! After this stop off at Oudshoorn and ride an ostrich, the closest descendent to the dinosaurs. Or imagine touring the Wilderness coastline from 100-metres above the sea with only the quiet sound of the wind in your gliding parachute – paragliding is not for the faint hearted.


9. Birders Paradise
Home to about a tenth of the world’s known birds, South Africa boasts over 900 bird species. From the African Penguin Colony at Boulders Beach, Simons Town to the rare Ground Hornbill in the southern Kruger National Park to the national bird, the Blue Heron in Wakkerstroom…. the species are prolific. The best time for birding is September to March and no ‘twitcher’ leaves disappointed.



10. The Food & Wine
South Africans are extremely passionate about food and wine. The country offers a bounty of fresh produce, excellent wine-lands and restaurants at every turn. The uber-cool Test Kitchen at the Biscuit Mill, Cape Town  was recently voted one of the best restaurants in the world! 

If our blog has got you interested in booking a holiday to South Africa, find out more on our specialist South Africa holidays page or call one of specialists today on 020 7843 3500.