South Africa is an exhilarating and complex country. With its post-apartheid identity still in the process of definition, there is undoubtedly an abundance of energy and a sense of progress about the place. Travellers are returning to a remarkable land that has been off the trail for way too long.
The infrastructure is constantly improving, the climate is kind and there are few better places to see Africa's wildlife. But if you want to understand South Africa, you'll have to deal with the full spectrum; poverty, the AIDS pandemic and violence remain a problem.
South Africa can be visited comfortably any time. Winter (June to September) is cooler, drier and ideal for hiking and outdoor pursuits. This is also the best time for wildlife-watching. Spring is the best time to see vast expanses of Northern Cape carpeted with wildflowers.
Whether you wish to drive slowly through the Savanna where the big game stalks .... visit a Zulu Kraal where the old people speak proudly of great warriors of the past….. or smell the rain coming across the veld amongst the flowers …. bend down to look at the tiny endangered Erica ... you can experience it in South Africa.
Beaches
Enjoy miles of unspoiled, exotic beaches. From the warm East Coast (stretching north of Durban down to East London in the Eastern Cape) to the cold Benguela stream around Cape Town and the West Coast.
National Parks
More than 20 National Parks are spread through the country offering a diversity of attractions - wildlife, mountains, floral scenery and more.
City Life
From the bustling Johannesburg to the irresistible Cape Town, from the small village of Pilgrims Rest in the mountains of Mpumalanga to the scenic town of Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands, South African cities and towns offer the visitor a variety to satisfy every need.
Nature Reserves, Hiking Trail and Botanical Gardens
Capture the essence of nature in any of the multitude of provincial and private nature reserves and botanical gardens. Hiking trails range from less an hour's leisure walks to 5 days hiking in the wild.
Other Attractions
A range of other attractions like the famous Sun City resort can be found spread through the country
Entertainment & Nights
When it comes to relaxing and enjoying time out, South Africa has something for everyone. This is a country that loves to laugh and comedy nights provide chuckles courtesy of some of the world’s best performers. If you prefer a more chilled approach, you can listen and participate in a drum session at a drum cafe. Otherwise, for those who love the thrill of the stage, there’s theatre galore or exciting extravaganzas at Sun City.
