Welcome to the Rainbow Nation
In many ways, South Africa is Africa in microcosm. Its sheer diversity of people, cultures, landscapes and experiences make this an absolute must-visit destination. Excellent international and regional connections make South Africa easy to reach from Europe or North America, either as part of a single-country destination or in combination with neighboring countries such as Botswana or Namibia.
Whatever you’re looking for on your African adventure, you can find it in South Africa – especially if you travel with Journey Beyond. From the vibrant, multicultural city of Cape Town to the fantastic flavors of the Cape Winelands and the thrilling safari opportunities of the Greater Kruger region, Mzansi (South Africa) can surprise and delight you at every turn.
Discover the Mother City
Cape Town arguably has the most spectacular setting of any city in the world. In the shadow of the iconic Table Mountain, and with two oceans swirling together where Africa ends, Cape Town has attracted curious, adventurous travelers for literally centuries.
Today’s city is a paradise for everyone, and you can experience it your way. Hike up the mountain, or take the cable car. Immerse yourself in the local art, café or foodie scenes, or take the plunge for a shark cage experience.
Cape Town is a city that richly rewards you if you take the time to seek out its best restaurants, coffee shops, art galleries and boutiques. From the city, you can easily escape into Nature, or follow the flavor trail of the wines you’ve been enjoying by spending time in the Cape Winelands.
Back to the source
Imagine a landscape dominated by rugged mountains, interspersed by ancient vineyards surrounding quaint old farms and villages with a distinctly French ambience… Manage this, and you’re close to picturing the Cape Winelands. This picturesque region is home to some of the world’s best wines.
Factor in the fantastic fresh produce, superb seafood and artisanal products, and you have all the ingredients for a delicious vacation. You can explore the vineyards around the pretty town of Franschhoek on horseback, by electric bike or on a guided tour in a luxury vehicle with a local guide so that you can make the most of the vertical tastings without having to worry about who’s doing the driving.
The Big Five – and much, much more
South Africa is the setting for some inspiring conservation success stories, and was also one of the first countries to combine luxury lodge and tented camp accommodation with world-class guiding and unbeatable wildlife encounters in pristine bush environments.
The Greater Kruger area features well-run private game reserves (many of which have achieved worldwide renown) surrounding a national park that’s roughly the same size as Switzerland. The Greater Kruger is one of the best safari destinations anywhere in Africa, with regular sightings of elephant, rhino and all the most sought-after predator species.
The private lodges in the Kruger have really pushed the envelope in terms of wilderness architecture. Classic khaki canvas designs can be found here, but so too can much more contemporary designs using steel, glass and natural materials.
As well as the excitement of close encounters with Africa’s most exciting creatures, many of the lodges provide a genuine focus on wellness, with spa and yoga offerings that let you optimize the benefits of being surrounded by unspoiled Nature.
For an African vacation that’s as thrilling as it is restful and serene, have a look at our Best of South Africa itinerary and talk to the travel experts at Journey Beyond about how you can customize your own South African Journey discover the best of the Rainbow Nation.
