Visiting South Africa: What Not to Miss
In South Africa, we have a wealth of incredible natural beauty surrounding us. From the verdant Garden Route and the arid Karoo, to the Drakensburg, the Highveld and the Midlands — everywhere you turn there’s something to take your breath away. As a visitor to South Africa, there are some spots and experiences you absolutely should not miss. Here are our top places to see while you’re visiting South Africa.
Visiting South Africa: The Wild Coast
The Wild Coast runs from about East London to Port Edward, passing the Kei River Mouth, Coffee Bay and Port St Johns along the way. This stretch of unspoilt coastline is known as the Wild Coast partly because of its reputation for wrecking many ships over the years. Apart from some historic shipwrecks, the Wild Coast also boasts a thriving arts and crafts trade, the Hole in the Wall at Coffee Bay, and a large collection of lighthouses. Visit to relax and leave inspired by the beauty of the land and the kindness and generosity of its people.
Where to stay:
- Lalibela Game Reserve, Eastern Cape
- Kichaka Private Game Lodge, Eastern Cape
- Pumba Private Game Reserve, Eastern Cape
Visiting South Africa: Cape Town & the Cape Winelands
It may be obvious, but we’d urge you not to miss the Mother City on a visit to South Africa. Its incredible natural beauty is matched by historic landmarks, and a food culture that rivals some of the best in the world. Visit to see Table Mountain and the 12 Apostles, and stay for the food markets, artisanal ice cream and some of the best fine dining around. The Cape also boasts its own collection of winelands: Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Paarl and the West Coast wine routes are quite well known, but when you’ve exhausted those consider heading up the West coast to Riebeeck Kasteel and the West Coast wine route. For a personalised tour of the Cape Winelands, you’d do no better than taking one of Greatest Africa’s private wine tours in the exquisite Cape Region. Our exclusive tours are guided by boutique wine producer Richard Hilton, of Richard Hilton Vineyards, who is also the founder and MD of Greatest Africa.
Where to stay:
- Grand Dedale Country House, Wellington
- Majeka House, Stellenbosch
- Webersburg Wine Estate, Stellenbosch
- Holden Manz, Franschhoek
- La Petite Ferme, Franschhoek
- Tintswalo Atlantic, Cape Town
- The Silo Hotel, Cape Town
- The Pod, Cape Town
Visiting South Africa: African Safari & National Parks
No visit to an African country is complete without experiencing a safari. Our wide range of national parks will allow you to experience the West Coast flower season, Table Mountain National Park, as well as the Maloti Drakensburg National Park, Addo Elephant Park and the iconic Kruger Park. You can experience the Big Five in the lap of luxury, or take a more affordable route — both will be spectacular experiences.
Where to stay:
- Singita Boulders Lodge, Sabi Sands (Kruger Park)
- Djuma Vuyatela Lodge, Sabi Sands (Kruger Park)
- Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse, Drakensburg
- Serondella Lodge, Thornybush Game Reserve (Kruger Park)
Visiting South Africa: Durban & the Midlands
The province of Kwa-Zulu Natal is home to both sweltering Durban and the more temperate Midlands. If a beachy winter break is your thing, Durban is ideal as temperatures are in the mid to late 20s and the humidity of summer a distant memory. The verdant Midlands is home to the Midlands Meander, as well as a cooler climate up on the plateau.
Where to stay:
- The Oyster Box Hotel, Umhlanga
- Isibindi Kosi Forest Lodge, KZN
- Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse, Drakensburg
Visiting South Africa: the Garden Route
The Garden Route is home to the ancient forests of yellow woods, the imposing beauty of the Knysna Heads and a collection of its own game reserves. From Swellendam to Storms River, you can drive the whole route from Cape Town, or fly into George Airport. Visit the ostriches at Oudtshoorn or try to find pansy shells on Plettenberg bay beach. The Garden Route also boasts a wide array of adventures for avid foodies, from sipping MCC at Bramon Wines and eating at the newly renovated Île de Païn, you can also visit the famous farmers market at Sedgefield.
Where to stay:
