South Africa with its diversity of landscapes, people and cultures has a unique holiday experience for everyone. Although wildlife viewing is one of the country's major attractions, South Africa also boasts beautiful beaches, adventure activities to thrill any adrenaline junkie, arts, culture and entertainment and food and wine to delight the senses.
 

Wildlife

From the Big Five to an array of buck and antelope, hundreds of bird species as well as spectacular marine life, South Africa is definitely a top wildlife destination. Spend a few days at one of the 20 national parks throughout the country or simply make an effort to enjoy a day trip or two. For bird enthusiasts there are plenty of birding opportunities throughout the country ,and between September and November whales visit the coastline between Cape Town and Arniston in the Western Cape to calve.

Adventure & Outdoors

From abseiling and rock climbing to bungy jumping, kloofing, hiking, sandboarding, horseriding and paragliding South Africa offers adventure and outdoor activities set to thrill and excite. For a 3-hour tree-topping adventure try the Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour and for hiking enthusiasts the Otter Trail along the Tsitsikamma coastline is one of great scenic beauty. The Whale Trail in the De Hoop reserve in the Overberg region is best done between the months of September and November when the Southern Right Whales are in the bay and opportunities are endless for hiking and walking in both the Cedarberg and Drakensberg mountains.

Beaches

South Africa can lay claim to having some of the worlds most beautiful beaches - and fantastic sunny weather to go along with them. From the fine white sandy beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay in Cape Town to the rugged coastline of the Wild Coast and the warm waters of the Kwa-Zulu Natal beaches - South Africa's beaches are sure to provide hours of fun and relaxtion for a sun-filled, family holiday.

Food & Wine

With a fusion of flavours from Europe and the East, South African cuisine has developed from a melting pot of cultures and backgrounds. Exotic flavours and spices are typical of the Cape Malay style of cooking, seafood dishes are aplenty thanks to South Africa's bountiful coastline and fresh produce and succulent fruits and vegetables are grown in fertile soils. The award winning wines of the Constantia, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek vineyards in the Cape have graced many a prestigious table both locally and abroad and local restaurants boast extensive winelists. From quaint country bistros to 5-star hotel restaurants, South Africa has a dining experience to suit every taste and pocket. Visit www.wininganddining.co.za for a choice of restaurants.

Garden Route

The scenic Garden Route along the eastern coastline of the Western Cape is a favourite holiday destination amongst tourists and locals alike. The lush forests surrounding Knysna and Plettenberg Bay make for popular hiking and walking and the long sandy stretches of beach are ideal for swimming, walking and relaxing. Enjoy fresh oysters in Knysna staight from the oyster beds in the lagoon and take a journey back in time with a trip on the Outeniqua Choo Choo stream train which hugs the coastline between George and Knysna.

 

Copyright to About South Africa 2003-2004. Photographs on this website courtesy of South Africa Tourism.