From beaches to mountains, deserts to vineyards...
... the geographic and cultural diversity that South Africa boasts makes it a destination not to be missed! South Africa's cities are also enormously varied, with hustling Johannesburg at its heart, and cosmopolitan Cape Town an enclave of European chic at the edge of the Atlantic Ocean. In between you can lose yourself for days on safari in the bush or explore quaint isolated towns breaking up the arid Karoo wilderness. The hot and humid seaside fun of Durban with its even hotter curries is another sharp contrast to the scattering of sedate resorts lining the pretty south coast Garden Route. Abundant wildlife is one of South Africa's major attractions, with many game parks and reserves, including the world-famous Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe / Umfolozi Reserve, which deliver uniquely African sights, sounds, smells and memories - including the famed "Big Five" (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo) as well as much more.
And, if the landscape sounds diverse, wait until you meet the people. South Africa boasts 11 official languages, mostly drawn from its indigenous population, while the colonialist legacy stirred Afrikaners, English and Indians into the mix. That blend has created a wonderful array of food, music and culture that offers something for everyone!
