South Africa Unforgettable People & Culture • Vibrant cities • Ultimate Adventures • Expert Itineraries
Your Journesy Begin Here
USEFUL TRAVEL INFORMATION: Population: 49 million Languages: 11 Official (including English) Currency: South African Rand ($1-R8, early 2012) Credit Cards: All major cards accepted Driving: Valid driver’s license accepted Electricity: 220/230 volts, 50 cycles
Health: No vaccinations required, except for recent visitors to Yellow Fever Zone countries Passport/Visa: No visa required for US or Canadian passport holders Time: Seven hours ahead of EST (winter); six hours ahead during summer
contents OVERVIEW
Welcome to South Africa
Discover one of the most beautiful and diverse countries on earth Page 3
ENTERTAINMENT AND LIFESTYLE
A Taste of the Good Life World-class wines and a burgeoning culinary scene Page 27
Regional Highlights
South Africa’s Greatest Hits
Relax and Recharge
Can’t-miss destinations for every traveler Page 7
Shop, gamble, chill, repeat Page 35
A World of Romance
SAFARI AND NATURE
Unique escapades for every couple Page 41
The Call of the Wild
Going on safari, the experience of a lifetime Page 13
ADVENTURE AND EXPLORATION
A Feast for the Eyes
Adrenaline Dreams
Breathtaking natural beauty at every turn Page 19
Diving with great whites, zipping through forest canopies, and more Page 43
CULTURE AND HERITAGE
A Tapestry of Cultural Experiences
SUGGESTED ITINERARIES
History, language, music— and a contagious local spirit Page 21
Inspiring New Ways
Planning the Journey Your trip of a lifetime Page 49
Inspiring New Ways
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Welcome to
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Exploring the endless sky of South Africa
hafrica
welcome to south africa
PACIFIC OCEAN
ATLANTIC OCEAN
PACIFIC OCEAN
SOUTH AFRICA
INDIAN OCEAN
Soaring mountains. Stunning beaches. A history that harks back to the very dawn of humankind... Welcome to South Africa, one of the most beautiful and diverse countries on earth—and a worldclass destination for every type of traveler. Choose your calling: safari and nature, adventure and exploration, culture and heritage, entertainment and lifestyle, or all of the above? And let your journey begin.
KEY COORDINATES
South Africa is almost four times the size of Germany and one-eighth the size of the United States. Two oceans border its 1,836-mile coast: The Atlantic to the west and the Indian Ocean to the east. At latitude 35° south, Cape Town is about the same distance from the equator as Sydney, Australia, or Los Angeles, California.
CLIMATE
Thanks to the surrounding oceans, South Africa enjoys a temperate climate, though weather patterns and rainfall vary widely. The Western
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Cape has Mediterranean-type winter rains brought by strong northwesterly winds. Other coastal areas experience rainfall throughout the year, but 80 percent of the country’s rain falls during the summer months of October to March, often accompanied by hail and thunderstorms. Overall, South Africa is a dry country with an annual rainfall of 18 inches, almost half the world average of 34 inches.
LAY OF THE LAND
South Africa’s topography ranges from majestic mountains and highveld grasslands to semi-desert scrubland and
subtropical swamps. Broadly speaking, the country consists of two main regions: a huge inland plateau that is fringed by a narrow coastal plain on three sides. Separating the two is an escarpment of mountains and hills, dominated by the mighty Drakensberg range. Home to some of the world’s most diverse animal and plant kingdoms, South Africa is the only country with an entire floral kingdom—the Cape Fynbos— within its borders.
HOSPITALITY
Some 49 million people from at least 20 ethnic groups live in South Africa. Locals take pride in hosting visitors and will make you feel comfortable no matter how long your stay. As you travel across the country, you may find yourself being welcomed in as many as 11 official languages—including English, which is the most widely spoken and used for all road signs.
cosmopolitan adventure—or even just some quality R&R— South Africa has something for everyone. Myriad entertainment options and valuefor-money experiences make this country an exceptionally diverse and accessible vacation destination. Like to golf? You’ll find world-class courses in settings so lush you may have to shoo giraffes off the green. Enjoy mouthwatering cuisine? South African food is an amalgam of the best of French, German, English, Indian, and African spices and techniques. Authentic culture? You can visit townships and partake in local festivals. No matter how you spend your vacation here, you will create memories to last a lifetime... or at least until you come back to visit again.
ACCOMmODATIONS
South Africa’s first-world infrastructure includes a wealth of five-star hotels and game lodges, as well as guesthouses, bed-and-breakfasts, and tented camps for nature lovers. Its hospitality industry puts a premium on safety standards and quality assurance through cutting-edge benchmarking and tourism grading certification, including relevant ISO standards.
RECREATION
Whether it’s an exhilarating game drive you’re after or a map: Alberto Mena; Bottom middle image: Getty Images
Zebras here drinking water and it fill here and beach goers here and please let’s dance here in and till be detail caption but not
Table Mountain, Cape Town’s spectacular natural backdrop. Below: The many faces of South Africa.
Regional Highlights
From the safari lands of Mpumalanga to the fast paced bustling city life of Gauteng, each of South Africa's nine provinces is a paradise unto itself. Here are the can't-miss classics that every traveler wants to visit.
South Africa’s Greatest Hits
Trendy Melrose Arch in cosmopolitan Johannesburg
GAUTENG
Historic Landmarks, Cosmopolitan Culture
south africa’s 9 Provinces
LIMPOPO
BOTSWANA
MOZAMBIQUE PRETORIA JOHANNESBURG MPUMALANGA GAUTENG
NAMIBIA
Diamonds in the Rough & Flowers • Kalahari Desert
FREE STATE
Food, Wine, and Scenic Beauty
• PRETORIA
• Cape Town As the
S OU T H AT LA N T IC OCEA N CAPE TOWN
KWAZULU-NATAL
LESOTHO
NORTHERN CAPE
Johannesburg, the "City of Gold," is the urban heart of South Africa as well as the country's financial capital. Within it lies Soweto (South Western Townships), where hundreds of thousands of black South Africans famously protested against apartheid in 1976. Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu lived here, and current residents include some of the best musicians, painters, and poets in the country.
Below: Nelson Mandela
SWAZILAND
NORTH WEST
• JOHANNESBURG AND SOWETO
An hour north of Johannesburg, South Africa’s capital city of Pretoria is marked by historic landmarks like the Voortrekker Monument and Museum, which pays tribute to the early Boer pioneers, as well as numerous parks and gardens and the famous Union Buildings.
Northern Cape
ZIMBABWE
DURBAN
EASTERN CAPE WESTERN CAPE
I N D I AN OC E AN
Along the northern reaches of South Africa’s largest province, the largest park on the continent awaits. Kgalagadi Transfrontier National Park spans the Kalahari from South Africa to Bostwana and harbors exotic wildlife and the last remaining bushmen, the San.
• KIMBERLEY Shop for Western Cape
cosmopolitan hub of the Western Cape province, Cape Town boasts worldclass shopping, museums, hotels, and restaurants— not to mention a spectacular natural setting. Where else can you frolic with penguins on the beach by
day and savor a worldclass restaurant meal for dinner?
• Winelands Three
of South Africa’s 13 wine routes begin just outside Cape Town: Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, and Paarl. Explore them at your own
pace, driving through picturesque mountains and rolling vineyards dotted with historic Cape Dutch architecture.
• Garden Route
The Garden Route, which runs over 500 miles from Cape Town to the Eastern Cape beaches of Port Elizabeth, is also a wonderfully scenic area to explore by car. Pit stop number one: Hermanus, where you can spot Southern Right whales from shore.
jewelry and tour diamond mines in this historic mining town—and don’t miss The Big Hole. At 1,640 feet wide by 787 feet deep, it’s the world’s largest man-made hole and the source of 14.5 million carats of diamonds.
• Namaqualand Flower Route
Witness the annual transformation of semidesert Namaqualand into an explosion of color as millions of flowers change the landscape into a true wonder of nature from July through September.
MPUMALANGA PROVINCE
Paradise Country • KRUGER NATIONAL PARK Also known as “Paradise Country,” this province is famous for map: alberto mena
its extraordinary natural wonders. Here you’ll find luxurious private game reserves and the great
Kruger National Park, one of the best safari destinations in the world.
• PANORAMIC ROUTE The vast, green Blyde River Canyon is often called
a “window on the world” for the dramatic views it affords. It’s also a stop on Mpumalanga’s Panoramic Route, which winds its way among scenic hills and canyons. Southafrica.net
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KWAZULU-NATAL
Stunning Beaches and Sporting Lands • Durban’s Golden Mile Zulu, Indian, and
Eastern Cape
The Windy City, Wild Coast and The Karoo Birthplace of Nelson Mandela
• Port Elizabeth
With 500 miles of pristine coastline, the Eastern Cape has no shortage of beaches, lagoons, and coastal forests. Its principal city, the laid-back town of Port Elizabeth, has 25 miles of beach and was named for the late wife of Sir Rufane Shaw Donkin, the Acting Governor of the Cape Colony in the early 1800s.
NORTH WEST
A Place in the Sun, and Beyond • sun city The North West is best known as the
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• Wild Coast The
Wild Coast stretches for roughly 125 miles between the coastal towns of East London—where you’ll find golf, museums, shopping, and even a private game reserve—and Port Edward. Port St. Johns, the largest town on the route, sits midway, at the mouth of the Mzimvubu River between steep sandstone cliffs and dense forest. Because of
location of scintillating Sun City, a world-class resort with an opulent casino and family-friendly activities galore. Visitors can hit up the man-made beach, wave pool, and water park in the Lost City, or perfect their swing at two 18-hole Gary Playerdesigned courses.
its rugged landscape, road access to the Wild Coast has remained limited—and the scenery largely undisturbed.
• The Karoo The Karoo is South Africa's largest semi-desert region, covering nearly 250,000 square miles. Home to both mountains and endless plains, the Karoo has maintained its frontier spirit while also providing peace and tranquility to all that visit.
British cultures come together in Durban, the melting pot city of KwaZulu-Natal. The metropolis is also popular for its three-mile stretch of golden sand—known locally as the Golden Mile— where you can set down your umbrella and while away the hours. Warm and sunny 320 days a year, Durban’s beaches offer public amenities, protective shark nets, beacons to indicate safe bathing, and lifeguards on duty for most of the day.
• iSimangaliso Wetland Park
South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, this wetland reserve contains three major lake systems, eight interlinking ecosystems and Africa's
largest estuarine system. The name iSimangaliso means miracle and wonder, which aptly describes this unique place.
•uKHAHLAMBADRAKENSBERG MOUNTAINs This
UNESCO World Heritage site is an outdoor wonderland filled with breathtaking hiking trails and wildlife. Bearded vultures, black eagles, grey rheboks, oribis and elands all make their home here. Mountain bikers can enjoy the awesome views of the Drakensberg as they traverse Cathedral Peak Mountain or the beautiful Lotheni valley in the Southern Drakensberg. Fishing enthusiasts can take in mountain vistas while casting for trout at Kamberg Nature Reserve.
Riding the wave in Durban.
• PILANESBeRG NATIONAL PARK A
short drive from Sun City, you can see the “Big Five” in Pilanesberg National Park. It’s set in the crater of a 1.2 billion-year-old extinct volcano and the home of an extensive wildlife population, including more than 300 species of birds. Bottom: melanie fidler, www.melaniefidler.com
free state
Colonial Artifacts and Cliffs of Gold Robben Island
• BLOEMFONTEIN
South Africa’s judicial capital offers a unique glimpse of the past. Visit President Brand Street, a re-creation of the early Boer town, and Freshford House, filled with charming colonial Victoriana. Several museums display haunting Anglo-Boer War artifacts.
• CLARENS Sur-
rounded by sandstone cliffs, this beautiful town just west of the Maluti mountain range has become an artists’ community and is filled with studios, bars and restaurants.
• GOLDEN GATE HIGHLANDS N.P.
South Africa’s only grasslands national park, this reserve is famed for its goldenhued sandstone sentinels and offers nature lovers unusual outdoor pursuits on foot, bike, and horseback.
A UNIQUE HERITAGE
South Africa has no fewer than eight UNESCO World Heritage Sites. Here’s what you can expect to find at each: A close encounter
LIMPOPO
Primeval Treasures •WATERBERG BIOSPHERE Formerly called
the Northern Province, Limpopo is an unspoiled ancient landscape of verdant forests, sparkling trout waters, and game reserves. Among its top natural attractions is the Waterberg Biosphere— named a Biosphere Reserve by UNESCO—whose rolling savannahs feature a mix of rock formations, thousands-year-old Bushman art, and abundant plains to support a diverse
array of fauna and flora.
•KRUGER NATIONAL PARK As South Africa’s
northernmost province, Limpopo contains the upper portion of worldfamous Kruger National Park. The ultimate safari destination, Kruger is home to a huge variety of mammals, amphibians, reptiles and birds. It is the oldest national park on the continent—and one of the top ten national parks in the world.
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The Fossil Hominid Sites of Sterkfontein, Swartkrans, Kromdraai, and Environs Considered to be the Cradle of Humankind, with evidence of some of the earliest ancestors of the human race. Mapungubwe Cultural Landscape Conserves the ruins of the largest Iron Age kingdom to have existed on the African subcontinent. Vredefort Dome The oldest (two million years) and largest clearly visible meteorite impact site in the world. Robben Island Once a symbol of oppression, where Nelson Mandela and other anti-apartheid activists were imprisoned, and now a symbol of hope.
uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park South Africa’s highest mountain range has a diverse habitat harboring threatened plant and bird species, and a concentration of historic rock art paintings. Richtersveld Cultural and Botanical Landscape Remarkable mountainous desert that is uniquely owned and managed by the Nama communities.
Cape Floral Region Protected Areas Home to an astounding diversity of floral species that occur nowhere else on the planet. iSimangaliso Wetland Park One of Africa’s largest estuary systems, with exceptional biodiversity and more than 520 bird species. Southafrica.net
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Regional Highlights
the big three
South Africa's iconic cities are destinations in their own right. Save some time to explore each one along the way.
SOUTH AFRICA CAPE TOWN
INDIAN OCEAN
SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN
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ICONIC CAPE TOWN
As South Africa’s oldest city, Cape Town carries the distinguished title of the Mother City. Some would say that, with her rugged beauty, she is indeed the mother all of cities. pop. 3,500,000
Table Mountain Offering a
glorious and panoramic view of the entire city, this famous flat-topped mountain is synonymous with the Cape of Storms. It presides over Cape Town’s history, and the stories of the city are etched into its form.
Robben Island A 40-minute ferry ride from shore, the once
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Durban skyline
isolated Alcatraz of South Africa’s political prisoners (including Nelson Mandela) now boasts a museum and nature reserve.
FIFA World Cup.
The V&A Waterfront With
Boulders Beach Home to
JOHANNESBURG JOHANNESBURG
its magnificent harbor, beautifully maintained historical buildings and up-market dining and shopping options, it is little wonder the V&A Waterfront is one of the city’s favorite haunts.
a colony of endangered African Penguins, Boulders Beach—situated just outside historic Simon’s Town—is a popular destination for locals and visitors alike. SOUTH
Green Market Square A cos-
southwesternmost point of the African continent and boasts a rich diversity of animals and plants (the Cape Floral Kingdom is located here).
mopolitan melting pot in the heart of the city—complete with Rastafarians, djembe drums, and curios from across the continent—this is a market you don’t want to miss.
Cape Town Stadium Situ-
ated in Green Point and designed to replicate a cloud descending the slopes of Table Mountain, the stadium proudly co-hosted the 2010
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INDIAN OCEAN
SOUTH ATLANTIC ATLANTIC OCEAN OCEAN
Cape Point Cape Point is the
Chapman’s Peak This is one
of the world’s most visually arresting scenic drives. It opened in 1922 and winds for approximately 6 miles, linking the villages of Hout Bay and Noordhoek. Communing with penguins at Boulders Beach.
ICONIC JOHANNESBURG
The City of Gold is the hub of entertainment and commerce in South Africa and, as Jozi residents will tell you, the place rocks! pop. 3,900,000
Gold Reef City Widely
recognized as one of the premier theme parks in the country, Johannesburg’s Gold Reef City Theme Park offers fun for the entire family.
rickshaw-pullers.
Durban Botanic Gardens SOUTH AFRICA
Soweto Just south of Joburg lies Soweto, the largest township in South Africa—and the heart of the struggle against apartheid. Cycling tours are a great way for first-time visitors to immerse themselves in this vibrant region, which is rife with landmark sites like the Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Memorial & Museum, and Regina Mundi Church. Gandhi Square Refurbished
in 2002, Gandhi Square is not only the central bus terminus, but it’s also used for exhibitions and awareness campaigns.
Market Theatre Known as
DURBAN
Top right: Crafts for sale in Soweto. ible collection of artwork, ranging from sculpture and multimedia displays to painting, etching, and photography.
Apartheid Museum Johan-
nesburg’s Apartheid Museum is a venture into the past, designed to give a personal experience of a time when your entire life was based on the color of your skin.
Rosebank Rooftop Craft Market One of Johannesburg’s premier markets, the Rosebank Rooftop Craft Market has over 600 stalls of clothing, ceramics, arts and crafts, furniture, and other handmade items from all over Africa.
South Africa’s “Theatre of the Struggle,” the Market Theatre is renowned for its anti-apartheid plays and is a cultural complex for theatre, music, dance, and the DID YOU allied arts.
KNOW?
Art District The
Johannesburg Art Gallery is the biggest—and oldest—art gallery on the African continent and boasts an incred-
Soweto is the only place in the world where two Nobel Peace laureates— Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu—lived on the same street.
top right: melanie fidler, www.melaniefidler.com
Gautrain The new
high-speed Gautrain is Africa's first worldclass, high-speed train system linking Johannesburg, Pretoria, the airport, and beyond.
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INDIAN OCEAN
ICONIC DURBAN
More than sun, sea, and sand, Durban is a vibrant multicultural city that pulsates to its own drum. pop. 3,500,000
Moses Mabhida Stadium The stadium, which hosted eight FIFA World Cup matches in 2010, holds 70,000 seats.
uShaka Marine World
Boredom is not an option here. Visitors can watch dolphins at play, witness a shark feeding session, or take a wild ride down a water chute.
Rickshaw Rides in Victoria Park This three-wheel, tuk-tuk
type of transport is a great way to see Durban’s famed beachfront— and the ornate headdresses of the
Africa’s oldest surviving green masterpiece, Durban Botanic Gardens is a luxuriant haven for orchids, palms, cycads, and many other beautiful examples of indigenous and exotic flora.
Valley of 1000 Hills
Unspoiled nature and wildlife, magnificent scenery, wining and dining, and warm country hospitality are just a half an hour’s drive from the center of Durban, in the Valley of 1000 Hills.
Umhlanga Rocks Area If you take an early morning stroll along the Umhlanga Rocks paved beachfront, you may see dolphins surfing the waves just offshore. Shakaland Feel the pulsating rhythm of mysterious and magical Africa as you relive the excitement and romance of the days of Shaka, King of the Zulus, in this authentic recreation of the Great Kraal overlooking the Phobane Lake. Victoria Market The
Victoria Street Market displays Durban’s lively Indian soul through its wide range of fresh produce, crafts, and fabrics—all conveniently housed under one roof in the heart of the city.
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Watch this! Scan to watch a classic South Africa safari –on elephant-back!
The Little Five Keep an eye out for these much smaller— though no less fascinating—namesakes of the Big Five: lion Ant Not a member of the feline family but a large insect resembling a dragonfly. Leopard tortoise Their attractively marked shells can reach up to two feet in diameter. Buffalo weaver A fairly large (about nine inches), stout, sparrowlike bird. Elephant shrew A small insect-eating rodent with a long nose. Rhinoceros beetle Among the largest of their kind, they can carry up to 850 times their own weight.
Safari and Nature
Going on safari is definitely the experience of a lifetime. And in South Africa, there are a variety of game-viewing options—on foot, in open-air vehicles, even on elephant-back. No matter which you choose, the memories of life in the bush will stay with you forever.
the
call of the The majesty of the African elephant in its natural habitat.
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Safari and Nature
Things to know a list of south africa’s national parks ZIMBABWE
MAPUNGUBWE NATIONAL PARK
BOTSWANA
NAMIBIA
MARAKELE NATIONAL PARK
KGALAGADI TRANSFRONTIER PARK
PILANESBERG NATIONAL PARK
MOKALA NATIONAL PARK
TANKWA KAROO NATIONAL PARK
SOU T H ATL ANT IC OC E AN
CAPE TOWN
WEST COAST NATIONAL PARK
y
CAMDEBOO NATIONAL PARK
KAROO NATIONAL PARK BONTEBOK NATIONAL PARK
TABLE MOUNTAIN NATIONAL PARK
GARDEN ROUTE NATIONAL PARK
PRETORIA
GOLDEN GATE HIGHLANDS NATIONAL PARK
AUGRABIES FALLS NATIONAL PARK
NAMAQUA NATIONAL PARK
MOZAMBIQUE
JOHANNESBURG
S O U TH A F R I CA
AIS/RICHTERSVELD TRANSFRONTIER PARK
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
GREAT LIMPOPO TRANSFRONTIER PARK
SWAZILAND
HLUHLUWEIMFOLOZI GAME RESERVE ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK
LESOTHO
MOUNTAIN ZEBRA NATIONAL PARK ADDO ELEPHANT NATIONAL PARK
I NDI AN OCEAN
AGULHAS NATIONAL PARK
home. Then it’s off to bed and dreams of the wildlife that you’ll encounter tomorrow.
Your wake-up call comes hours before sunrise so you can track leopards, lions, and other nocturnal hunters before the heat of day kicks in. After a quick cup of coffee, you embark on a three- to four-hour game walk or drive with a super-knowledgeable ranger and tracker— and let the sightings begin. You spot not just one elephant, but a dozen—from a playful baby to a two-story bull—and a regal gemsbok, with its slender, scimitar-like horns that may have inspired tales of the fabled unicorn. The roar of a male lion, a few yards from the safari vehicle, leaves you nearly breathless.
Return to camp for a fresh cooked breakfast followed by a nature walk with a ranger. After lunch, take a nap at the height of the midday heat or
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go for a swim. Then, following afternoon tea, you’re off on an evening safari drive that includes a stop for a sundowner, or a cocktail, to pass the
sunset. Back at your lodge or campsite, enjoy dinner under the southern constellations, a completely different array of stars from what you see at
Where the wild things are
The best-known safari destination in South Africa is Kruger National Park. Located in the northeast corner of the country along the border with Mozambique, this remarkable conservation area spans the provinces of Mpumalanga and Limpopo, with more than 7,500 square miles of land and 16 distinct natural regions. The southern end of the park, which has the most developed tourism facilities, is the most visited. map: alberto mena
Tracking wild animals requires expert skills. Below: Meerkats mug for the camera.
beyond kruger Kruger isn’t South Africa’s only wildlife hotspot. Across the country you’ll find a range of distinctive parks and reserves, including: Madikwe Game Reserve Lions, leopards, elephants, buffalo, and white and black rhinos call this reserve home. It sits in the northern reaches of the North West province, on the border with Botswana.
Kruger is a renowned location for “Big Five” viewing; lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros can all be found here. In addition, you can spot giraffes, zebras, antelopes, wildebeests, and almost as many types of birds as there are stars in the Southern Hemisphere’s skies. Elephant-back safaris are offered at the park, a well as the more traditional walking and driving safaris, and accommodations DID YOU range from basic KNOW? campsites to luxury Kruger National Park is roughly safari lodges, with the size of prices to suit every the state of budget. New Jersey.
Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park Located in Northern Cape’s shimmering Kalahari Desert and operated in conjunction with Botswana, this is the largest park in Africa. The border is unfenced, and wildlife—blackmaned Kalahari lions, gemsboks, meerkats, elephants—search for water along the same riverbeds as their ancestors have for centuries. www.sa-venues. com/game-re serves/kzn_hluhlu we-umfolozi.htm Pilanesberg National Park Set in an ancient volcanic crater in North West province—and just a two-hour drive from Johannesburg— this park’s dramatic landscape of rocky outcrops and thick bush supports a wide variety of plants and animals, including the Big Five. www.pilanesberg gamereserve.com Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve KwaZulu-Natal province’s prized game reserve is one of the most popular destinations in all of
Africa for walking safaris (traditional safaris are also available). Though only one-fifth the size of Kruger, it has a remarkable population of wildlife, including the Big Five. Hluhluwe-Umfolozi is also known worldwide for its conservation efforts; its staff is almost singlehandedly responsible for saving the white rhino from extinction. www.southafrica. net Addo Elephant National Park This reserve forty-five miles outside of Port Elizabeth, in the Eastern Cape, has 300 elephants—plus prime viewing opportunities and a range of accommodations. Visitors might also spot some 180 bird species. Golden Gate Highlands National Park Located in the Free State near the Lesotho border, the park’s most notable features are its golden, ochre, and orange-hued deeply eroded sandstone cliffs and outcrops. Numerous caves and shelters display ancient San rock paintings, and zebra, eland and over 100 bird species can be found. www.san parks.org.za/parks/ golden_gate For a full list of South African National parks, visit www.sanparks.org
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Safari and Nature
Clockwise from above: Different species mingle on the plain; every hippo likes a good soak; five-star elegance meets contemporary African design in the heart of the bush; scanning the horizon for wildlife. Northern Kruger Park has begun drawing safari lovers in the know. Here, in the shrubby mopaneveld, sand forest, and dense tropical forests, you’ll find great herds of elephants and buffalo, plus rare antelope species. Because there are far fewer lodges and safari vehicles are relatively new to the area, the animals here are a bit more reclusive than in the southern part of the park. However, the more intense the search for animals, the greater the payoff: a rare close-up view of the Big Five and other fascinating wildlife.
Private Reserves
If you’re prepared to spend a little (or a lot) more, South
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Africa also has many private game reserves and upscale lodges. These conservation areas offer a higher level of luxury and unparalleled guided bush experiences while remaining committed to conservation and community. Sabi Sand Game Reserve, for one, provides high-end accommodations along Kruger’s southwest border. Though it’s private, few fences separate the reserve from Kruger, meaning that animals traverse the border freely. Other private game reserves are located within Balule, Timbavati, Thornybush, Kapama, Shamwari, Waterberg, Cederberg, and Pilanesberg national parks. bottom: melanie fidler, www.melaniefidler.com
Things to know before you plan your safari PUBLIC PARK OR PRIVATE RESERVE? You can go on safari in a national park or private reserve—and neither will disappoint. Here are the key differences: National Parks
Private Game Reserves
Key wildlife or areas of great natural value
Most freedom of activity and least amount of tourists
Less luxury accommodation options
Off-road driving
Larger lodges, less expensive
Walking safaris
Great for self drives
Luxury accommodations
Night drives
BREAKING DOWN THE COST In South Africa, there’s a safari for every budget. Here’s what to expect: Safaris are all-inclusive— i.e., all game-viewing activities, meals, and in many cases drinks, are included. Gratuities/Tips are excluded. Rates are priced as per person, per night.
Expect to pay anywhere from $250 to $1200 per person for a 4 or 5 star private lodge. Typical stay is for 3 nights, which means guests are getting a total of 6 game drives.
WALKING SAFARIS Seeing big animals from the security of a safari vehicle is thrilling, but it is nothing compared to standing on your own two feet, deep in the bush, and getting a close-up view of a black rhino (or an elephant, giraffe, zebra, impala—you get the picture). All walking safaris in South Africa are undertaken under the direct supervision of armed rangers and trackers. The most popular areas for wilderness trails are the game parks of KwaZulu-Natal and Kruger National Park. Southafrica.net
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looks like a small-eared rabbit, but is more closely related to the elephant. Not up for a hike? Take the exciting 360-degree rotating cable car trip to the top for awesome views of the Atlantic and Indian oceans, the entire City Bowl and, on a clear day, the surrounding countryside. Set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the enchanting Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens features two square miles of rare indigenous plant species, including South Africa’s beloved fynbos (indigenous shrubbery often used in spa treatments). The Gardens are always lovely to visit, but are especially picturesque in the spring (September to November), when seasonal flowers are in bloom. www.tablemountain. net; www.sanbi.org
Overlooking Blyde River Canyon.
a feast for the eyes
South Africa is a land of breathtaking natural beauty, with a vast array of sweeping landscapes, majestic mountains, pastoral panoramas and much more. The scope of such beauty is matched only by your imagination.
R
oaring waterfalls, lush canyons, soaring mountain ranges, golden sand beaches with sparkling blue waters—if you’ve dreamed of it, chances are you can find it in South Africa. From the country’s vast
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array of scenic attractions, we’ve spotlighted the top 10, each with its own array of sights and activities within.
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Table Mountain Cosmopolitan Cape Town is framed on one side by two
oceans and on the other by majestic Table Mountain. You can hike to the top and follow more than a mile of paths past arresting flora (1,500 types of plants live here), rocky outcrops, and the mountain’s indigenous resident, the rock dassie, which
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Cape Peninsula This is the most southwestern point on the African continent—and just a short drive south of Cape Town. Laden with gorgeous vistas of mountains and ocean, the Cape Peninsula also offers unique wildlife viewing opportunities (don’t miss the land-based penguin colony at Boulders Beach). At the very tip lies Table Mountain National Park, whose rugged cliffs, steep slopes, and sandy flats are home to rich and diverse wildlife, including baboons, zebras, antelopes, ostriches and a variety of other bird species. www.capepoint.co.za
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The Garden Route From whale watching to surfing and hiking to cave exploring, the Garden Route— which extends from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth—has something for everyone. One of the
first major attractions you’ll pass as you drive east from Cape Town is Hermanus, a popular stopover for migrating Southern Right whales. Slightly north of Hermanus is Oudtshoorn, site of the Cango Caves. Dating back 15,000 years, these enormous underground passages harbor otherworldly stalactites and stalagmites. www.hermanus.co.za www.ecotourism.co.za
game lodges.
DID YOU KNOW?
The Drakensberg Mountains create what may be the largest water factory in Africa; their soaring peaks intercept clouds from the Indian Ocean and funnel rain into rivers below.
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iSimangaliso Wetlands If you’re looking for diverse natural experiences then the iSimangaliso Wetlands are a must visit while in South Africa. Enjoy the endless beaches that stretch 136 miles from Maphelane in the south to Kosi Bay on the Mozambique border, and view game on self-guided or guided treks through the foothills of the Lubombo mountains in uMkhuze or the coastal forests and rolling grasslands of Lake St Lucia’s Eastern Shores. See the spectacular coral reefs and colorful underwater life whilst diving or snorkeling or embark on adventures ranging from kayak trips to horse rides. www.isimangaliso.com
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Namaqualand A vast semi-desert area north of the Olifants River, the Northern Cape’s Namaqualand literally springs to life with wildflowers—more than 4,000 species of them, some of which can’t be found anywhere else in the world—during the springtime (mainly in August and September). The stunning display doesn’t necessarily adhere to a scheduled start, but if you’re
visiting South Africa during the season, you should be able to witness at least one act of one of nature’s greatest shows. www.northerncape.org.za www.namaqualand.com
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uKhahlambaDrakensberg Mountains Located in the eastern coastal province of KwaZulu-Natal, this UNESCO World Heritage site is loaded with waterfalls, hiking trails, and mountain streams made for fly-fishing. The uKhahlamba, or “barrier of spears,” as the Zulu call them, also comprise one of the largest open-air galleries in the world, with more than 35,000 images painted by the ancient San (also known as bushmen). KwaZuluNatal is also renowned for its pristine waters. From the top of the Drakensberg Mountains to the crashing waves of the Indian Ocean, the land drops thousands of feet. The scenery is breathtaking, and the wildlife begs to be explored, especially in iSimangaliso Wetland Park. www.drakensberg.org.za
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Panoramic Route Due south of Limpopo, the
Natural treasures abound in South Africa.
province of Mpumalanga (which means, “place where the sun rises”) is known as the home of Kruger National Park. But this astonishing scenic area boasts myriad natural wonders—including those of the Panoramic Route, a series of stops among the hills and canyons in the area that afford spectacular views of unadulterated nature. Blyde River Canyon might just be the most breathtaking, but other well-known spots on the route include the poetically named God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the Three Rondavels.
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Waterberg Mountains In the northeastern province of Limpopo, you can enjoy some of the best horseback riding trails in the country, especially in the malaria-free Waterberg mountains—aptly named for the prolific streams that flow even in dry seasons. This is also a premier wildlife area, with a sanctuary for rare and endangered animals including the Big Five. After a day of riding or exploring, unwind by soaking in warm springs and staying overnight at one of several
The Otter Trail & Wild Coast Farther east along the coast you’ll see the verdant stretches of the Tsitsikamma National Forest, the source of the Storms River. There are many ways to enjoy this pristine stretch of land, including a quick but informative trip to the main visitors center, but to truly immerse yourself in its natural wonder, set out on the Otter Trail, a guided, fiveday backpacking trek along the rugged coastline. Some degree of fitness is required (you will cover about five to eight miles a day over rough terrain) and there are huts and a restroom at each overnight stop. The Otter Trail features three very distinct ecosystems: rocks, cliffs, and tide pools along the sea; wet jungle in the valleys; and dry bush on the bluffs. A less rigorous option is the two-day Dolphin Trail, which offers the comfort of overnight accommodations and no heavy backpacks. www.sanparks.org www.dolphintrail.co.za
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Magaliesberg The lush Magaliesberg mountain range in Gauteng is only a 90-minute drive northwest of Johannesburg, but a world apart from urban life. It’s a wonderful place to relax and unwind, surrounded by awesome natural beauty. There are crystal streams, hiking trails, horseback riding trails, luxury spas, and hot-air balloons. In addition to the abundant natural wonders of the area, there are myriad artists’ studios and shops that dot the mountain roads. www.magaliesberg.co.za
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Culture and heritage Clockwise from far left: Local crafts; Bo-Kaap, Cape Town’s Malay quarter; learning about Ndebele ways; art on the horizon.
A tapestry of Cultural experiences Nobel Peace Prize winner, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, coined the term “Rainbow Nation” to capture the extraordinary diversity of races, tribes, creeds and landscape that characterizes modern South Africa. Getting to know South Africa’s amazing people may be the most enduring memory of any visit. top left: melanie fidler, , www.melaniefidler.com
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Local Lingo
Culture and Heritage
A
South Africa has 11 official languages. English is the most widely used, and is spoken almost everywhere. Just in case, here’s how to say “hello” in the other ten: • South African English: Howzit • Sesotho: Dumela • Zulu: Sawubona
Archbishop Desmond Tutu couldn’t have picked a more fitting name for his native country. From the Ndebele in Mpumalanga to the largest concentrated Indian population outside India in Durban to the Xhosa in the Eastern Cape, the “Rainbow Nation” is a rich multicultural mix 49 million strong. South Africa’s astounding diversity is rooted in its ancient past. Some of the earliest evidence of the emergence of the human species has been discovered here—artifacts dating back one to three million years—and for the past 100,000 years the region has been populated by Khoisan hunter-gatherers, or Bushmen. The Khoisan turned to pastoralism some 2,000 years ago, acquiring livestock from Bantu-speaking people migrating southwards. The Khoikhoi (Hottentots) moved down the west coast and eventually became the first indigenous people to settle in the area. In the east, Bantu tribes from south of the Limpopo River also began migrating southwards. The Nguni (Zulu, Xhosa, Swazi, Ndebele) occupied present day KwaZulu-Natal and the Eastern Cape; the Sotho and
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Tswana populated the central regions; and the Venda, Lemba, and Shangaan-Tsonga remained in the north. Following their arrival in 1647, the Dutch continued expanding their settlements and slaves were eventually brought from the east and Madagascar. This gave rise to the mixed-race of “coloured” people that are now the predominant racial group in the Western Cape and Northern Cape. Today’s Rainbow Nation is comprised of at least six major cultural and ethnic groups—Xhosa, Zulu, Afrikaans, Venda, Ndebele and Sesotho—and each will enrich your South Africa experience in its own way. So tour the townships, visit a cultural village, and be sure to talk to people wherever you go, as you’ll find South Africa’s culture alive and vibrant everywhere you look.
• Xhosa: Molo • Ndebele: Lotjha • Setswana: Dumela • Afrikaans: Haai
PAYING TRIBUTE TO THE PAST
South Africa’s varied museums are a good place to get a feel for the history of the country and learn more about what makes the people here so special. Here is just a sampling that highlights a few of the country’s many outstanding museums: • The Apartheid Museum gives visitors insight into the country’s turbulent past and ultimately it illustrates the triumph of the human spirit over adversity. A unique interactive system where you can assume the identity of an individual who lived during the struggle lends an emotional poignancy to a visit. • The District Six Museum in Cape Town is another stirring tribute to the past, a remembrance of the once vibrant mixed-race community of 60,000 people, including many artists and musicians, forced to relocate during apartheid. Live music performances and first-hand narratives add to the affecting atmosphere. • Robben Island, the former prison where Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners were held during apartheid, is easily reached by boat from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town. It is, however, an emotional voyage
• SiSwati: Sawubona • Xitsonga: Avuxeni • TshiVenda: Ndaa / Aa!
to the UNESCO World Heritage site, and one you’ll find yourself remembering long after you return home. Former inmates of the notorious penal colony lead the guided tours and the entire island is a moving symbol of the inhumanity of apartheid and the great sacrifice made for freedom. Be sure to book your tickets in advance. • The Nelson Mandela Museum is located in Mandela’s birthplace of Umtata. Although the area is one of the poorest in the country, its residents are rich with pride for their native son. You’ll learn about Mandela’s life, from childhood to present, through powerful exhibits that explore his book, “Long Walk to Freedom.” Also on display: a collection of gifts that he received when he was head of state.
Soul-stirring Soweto
Just south of Johannesburg is Soweto, the largest township in South Africa. Soweto was home to Nelson Mandela, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and hundreds of thousands of black South Africans whose struggles against apartheid captured the world’s attention. Guided tours are the best way to see this vibrant city within a city; most include stops at the following:
A visit to Robben Island, where CultureNelson and Heritage Mandela and other political prisoners were once incarcerated, is a great opportunity to learn from the past. Below: A warm welcome.
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Culture and Heritage
the mini itinerary DAY 1: Learn about the great struggle against apartheid with a guided tour of Johannesburg’s legendary Soweto township. DAY 2: Take a day trip to the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site, 45 minutes from Joburg, and cap off the evening back in town with a live music show at the Newton Cultural Center. DAY 3: Fly to Cape Town and explore historic destinations like the Great Synagogue (circa 1903) and the Castle of Good Hope. DAY 4: Take a 40-minute ferry to Robben Island, the former prison that held Nelson Mandela and other political prisoners during apartheid.
• Regina Mundi Church is renowned for defying the government during the township uprising and remaining open both for worship and political debate. • Hector Pieterson Memorial stands as a tribute to the 1976 student uprising. • Freedom Square is where the African National Congress (ANC) created the Freedom Charter. • Mandela Family Museum, in Nelson Mandela’s former home on Vilakazi Street, houses an assortment of Mandela memorabilia. • Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s house (not open to the public) is also on Vilakazi Street, making it the only street in the world to have once been home
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Constitution Court in Johannesburg
to two future Nobel Peace Prize winners. While on Vilakazi Street you can sample traditional African food while seated at a shady trestle table on the grass at Sakhumzi’s, or savor ethnic dishes at Nambitha, with its great exhibition of classic photos from worldacclaimed photographers such as Peter Magubane and Jürgen Schadeberg. Or head over to Makhalemele Street for lunch at Wandie’s Place, one of Soweto’s most famous shebeens (taverns).
The Birthplace of the Human Race
Just 45 minutes from Joburg is the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage
site that many people believe to be the birthplace of the human race. Here, at the Sterkfontein Caves, archaeologists discovered the nearly 3-million-year-old remains of a female skeleton known as “Mrs. Ples.” She’s considered the first hard evidence of the connection between humans and apes. Also on display are artifacts and fossils dating back to the Stone Age discovered in the caves and on the 10,000-acre site that surrounds Sterkfontein.
War and Remembrance
If you’re interested in historical tours and stories of epic battles, visit the Battlefields Route in northern KwaZulu-
Natal. Here is where great Zulu warriors took on marauding Boer forces, then battled the Brits, and finally, where the Boers and the British fought each other. Two of the most famous points on the route are Rorke’s Drift and Islandlwana. Although you can selftour the route, a good guide can bring the battlefields to life through stories and background details. In Cape Town, you’ll find the Castle of Good Hope, South Africa’s oldest Colonial building, which was originally established as a military fortification by the Dutch East India Company. Constructed between 1666 and 1679 in anticipation of an
Culture and Heritage
An intimate live music performance.
attack by British forces, it now houses the Castle Military Museum and is the ceremonial facility for the traditional Cape Regiments.
MOVE TO THE BEAT
South Africa’s domestic music scene is as vibrant as ever, ranging from the distinctive kwela (pennywhistle) and kwaito (African pop) of the townships to the Afrikaners’ traditional boeremusiek and tiekiedraai to soul, jazz, and reggae. Hugh Masekela (trumpeter), Abdullah Ibrahim (jazz pianist and composer), and the late Miriam Makeba (songstress) are three of the best-known contemporary musicians. Classical music and ballet
still draw enthusiastic audiences.
Live and Lively Nightlife
If you’d like to experience some of the music of South Africa live and in person, there are many wonderful venues throughout the country, but a surefire destination is Joburg’s Newton Music Centre, where you’ll find the renowned Market Theatre as well as jazz clubs, dance clubs, and various other entertainment venues. For alfresco cafés and music scenes for the trendy set, head to Melville. A bit more on the upscale side, Melrose Arch is home to various restaurants and sidewalk cafes. Sandton and
Rosebank are also abuzz with fabulous nightspots and wine bars.
Festivals Galore
One of the best ways to get to know South African music is to head to one of the dozens of music festivals held throughout the year. Great listings of musical events in South Africa can be found at www.oppikoppi.co.za. Here is a sampling: • The Cape Town International Jazz Festival is held in March or April, and features an allstar line-up that includes top international, African, and South African performers. www.capetownjazzfest.com • Klein Karoo National Arts Festival, held every April in the
town of Oudtshoorn in the Western Cape, celebrates Afrikaans music, culture and language. www.kknk.co.za • Joy of Jazz is hosted by Johannesburg every August. www.joyofjazz.co.za • Arts Alive is a Septemberlong celebration of music, poetry, theater, comedy and dance in Johannesburg. www.sa-venues.com/events/ gauteng • The National Arts Festival– the country’s largest cultural event–features everything from classical to jazz to avant-garde music. It’s held every June and July in Grahamstown, in the Eastern Cape. www.nafest.co.za
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Entertainment and lifestyle: Food & wine
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Entertainment and lifestyle: Food & wine
a taste of the good life South Africa’s brilliant wines are finding their way to tables around the globe – and under the stars. The best way to appreciate them is with South Africa’s world-class cuisine, prepared by some of the best chefs on the planet. Southafrica.net
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entertainment and lifestyle: Food & Wine
F
Curry served in a bread loaf is known as a “bunny chow.” Right: Braai (barbecue) is a big South African tradition.
From traditional African fare to the mild, sweet curries of Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap district, to the succulent seared kudu served at a braai (barbecue) in a safari lodge’s boma (enclosed outside area), South Africa is brimming with culinary experiences. In addition to homegrown talent, this gem of a country is also attracting top chefs from around the world, making it an exciting culinary destination. Choose from an array of restaurants in a variety of settings, including al fresco waterfront bistros; bucolic hideaways tucked into vineyards; sophisticated city restaurants; and Out of Africa-style safari dining, complete with pressed white tablecloths and candles. In Hermanus, you can even enjoy fine dining in a cave with a lovely view of the ocean!
On the menu
In addition to savory meat
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dishes made with beef, pork, lamb and chicken, there are also several varieties of game that you might want to try, including springbok (a type of venison), ostrich, and even warthog. Non-meat eaters shouldn’t despair: The fruits and vegetables grown in South Africa are of remarkable quality (try the world-renowned juices from areas such as Ceres, about 90 miles northeast of Cape Town) and the locally caught seafood is fantastic.
A term you’ll hear often is “line fish,” which simply means the catch of the day, usually grilled and served with lemon wedges. Local line fish include flaky white salt-water kingklip, saltwater snoek, satisfyingly oily butterfish, and even juicy barracuda, caught off South Africa’s eastern shores. Crayfish (clawless lobsters), Knysna oysters, and abalone are local delicacies as well. Maize, or corn, is a staple
of traditional African cuisine and often makes its way to the table in one of two ways: Roasted on the cob or ground into flour and cooked as pap (similar to polenta). Use the pap to dip into a traditional stew such as umngqusho, made of maize, beans, chilies and potatoes (and said to be a favorite of Nelson Mandela). Boerewors—or spiced sausages of beef or pork grilled together with sirloin and lamb chops—are a highlight of Afrikaans fare, and musttaste desserts include melktert (light custard in a pie shell) and koeksisters (fried doughnuts in syrup).
A toast to wines and winelands
South African wines are rightfully taking their place in international circles, winning competitions when blindly
entertainment and lifestyle: Food & Wine
Whet your appetite Read up on South Africa’s dining scene in these two online guides: www.eatout.co.za and www.restaurants.co.za Southafrica.net
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NAMIBIA
Things to know south africa’s wine regions OLIFANTS RIVER SWARTLAND DARLING TULBAGH TYGERBERG Area in PAARL detail BREEDEKLOOF WORCESTER KLEIN KAROO CALITZDORP LANGEBERG-GARCIA CONSTANTIA STELLENBOSCH FRANSCHHOEK VALLEY ELGIN OVERBERG SWELLENDAM PLETTENBERG BAY CAPE POINT WALKER BAY CAPE AGULHAS CENTRAL ORANGE RIVER NAMIBIA
SOUTH AFRICA
S OU TH ATL A N TI C OC EA N
CAPE TOWN
INDIAN OC EA N
SO U T H A F R ICA S OUTH ATLANTI C OCEAN
CAPE TOWN
I N D IAN OCEAN
compared to the best-known wines of the world. The country’s varietals include whites, such as sauvignon blanc and chenin blanc, and reds, including cabernet sauvignon and shiraz. Unique to South Africa is pinotage, a cross between pinot noir and cinsault (also known as hermitage). More than a fifth of all South African vineyards are devoted to it. Many of the larger estates also have excellent restau-
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Pinotage origins
In 1925, a professor at the University of Stellenbosch crossed Pinot Noir with Hermitage (Cinsault) and Pinotage was born. This variety is unique to South Africa and is celebrated worldwide for its distinctively rich and spicy wines. More than a fifth of our red wine vineyards are dedicated to Pinotage.
rants, and enjoying a multicourse meal is a great way to learn about pairing foods and wines. In recent years, South Africa has been cited as home to the world’s “most beautiful wine country” in Food & Wine, Condé Nast Traveler and Occasions magazines, as well as by the American Institute for Foreign Study, among others. You can judge for yourself by touring one of
13 wine routes in the Western Cape, where you’ll find hundreds of estates that produce thousands of wines. Some visitors make a quick half-day trip from Cape Town, while others spend a week writing tasting notes at the scores of vineyards and fine-dining establishments in the region (make sure to ask for a table with a view of the vineyard), and bedding down in memorable inns.
Map: alberto mena
Dining D i ct i o n a ry
Here is a list of some of the vocabulary essential to the South African dining experience: Biltong: Dried, cured meat Bobotie: A sweet curried ground meat dish of Cape Malay origin Boerewors: Sausages to be cooked on the braai Braai: Barbecue Bredie: Slow-cooked stew Bunny Chow A Durban delicacy: hollowed-out bread filled with curry Pap: Maize-meal porridge, similar to polenta
The Cape Winelands, fringed with mountains.
Follow the Wine Trail
You can’t go wrong with any of South Africa’s 13 wine routes, but these five rank among the most popular: 1. Franschhoek: About an hour outside of Cape Town, scenic Franschhoek has some 20 wineries and is considered the gourmet capital of the Winelands. www.franschhoek.org.za 2. Stellenbosch: Only a 35-minute drive from Cape Town, this quaint, charming oak tree-lined
town is known as the wine capital of South Africa, boasting nearly 100 wine estates. www.wineroute.co.za 3. Paarl: Home to Nederburg, one of the Cape’s best known wineries, Paarl also offers one of the most popular cellar tours in the winelands at KWV, whose 55-acre
cellar is the largest in the world. www.paarlwine.co.za 4. Wellington: This wine route is small but popular because its cellars are easy driving distances from one another. www.wellington.co.za 5. Route 62: This is the world’s longest wine route, with wine cellars and estates in Paarl, Wellington, Tulbagh, Worcester, Robertson, Montagu, Barrydale, Ladismith, Calitzdorp and Oudtshoorn. www.route62.co.za
Peppadews: Pickled sweet peppers, exclusively produced in South Africa Peri Peri: Spicy hot sauce originally brought by Portuguese traders Pinotage: South Africa’s signature wine. A blend of pinot noir and cinsault varietal Sosaties: Kebabs seasoned with Cape Malay spices Umngqusho: Made of maize, beans, chilies and potatoes–like an African risotto
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Clockwise from top left: Alfresco dining along the Garden Route; spices at Durban’s Victoria market; dining with friends in the Cape Winelands; dinner entertainment in Johannesburg.
First-person account
The CHEF’S Tour An acclaimed chef shares his impressions of South Africa’s culinary scene
Reuben Riffel: I grew up just a stone’s throw away from the restaurant that today bears my name in the small village of Franschhoek. Blessed with hearty appetites, my family loved food—growing it, preparing it, and sharing it. My grandfather and father spent hours in the garden and we always had plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables Food & Wine Shows If you are truly a dedicated gourmet, you can time your visit to coincide with one of the three Good Food & Wine Shows held annually in Cape Town (mid-May), Durban (late September) and Gauteng (early November). For information and registration details, visit www.gourmetsa.com www.wosa.co.za
on our table. My grandmother was the baker of the family. It was there in the family kitchen that I first fell in love with the tantalizing mix of culture and cuisine that makes food an integral part of South Africa’s identity. Today, I find great joy in sharing our culinary traditions with the rest of the world. Even the most experienced traveler will find South Africa a delicious revelation. I invite all serious ‘foodies’ to discover our distinct tastes, fusion of cultures and the undeniable warmth of our people at one of our annual food and wine festivals. • Reuben Riffel, co-owner of the award-winning Reuben’s Restaurant, is the native sensation of Franschhoek, a picturesque town in the Cape Winelands. Since opening
South African chef Reuben Riffel.
his restaurant in 2004, Reuben has been honored with numerous awards and published two books, Reuben Cooks: Food is Time Travel, which received Best Chef’s Book by the Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, and Reuben Cooks Local, which focuses on local produce and passionate food growers. He just launched his first urban restaurant at the One&Only resort in Cape Town.
Opposite page top right: melanie fidler, www.melaniefidler.com
Watch this! Scan to watch Chef Reuben Riffel in South Africa.
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More popular beaches Durban: The city’s Golden Mile actually consists of three miles of warm Indian Ocean beaches. The Garden Route: Along this scenic byway you’ll find many beautiful coves and scenic stretches of sand—not to mention dolphins and windsurfers, too. Port Elizabeth: Favorite swimming spots along the gentle curves of Algoa Bay include Kings Beach and Humewood Beach.
ENTERTAINMENT and LIFESTYLE Enjoying a quiet afternoon at the beach.
relax and recharge in the Southern sun Hit the beach, roll the dice, sink some putts, shop ’til you drop – or just relax at the spa. In South Africa, it’s easy to take it easy. Southafrica.net
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Entertainment and Lifestyle: Relax and Recharge
Palace of the Lost City, at Sun City
Spas
No matter where you choose to stay in South Africa—deep in the bush, in a bustling city, or at a beach resort—a relaxing and pampering spa experience is never far away. Many spas use local ingredients to create special “only-in-South Africa” treatments. To name a few: Cape Town’s The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa is known for its unusual fynbos exfoliation; Camelot Spa at Table Bay Hotel, also in Cape Town, uses Rooibos tea and local oils; and Fourdoun in KwaZulu-Natal offers a fusion of traditional medicine and contemporary wellness treatments under the guidance of a traditional Zulu healer.
Beaches
Nothing says “vacation” like a friendly stretch of sun-drenched beach. With nearly 1,800 miles of coastline, there’s virtually a beach for everyone in sunny South Africa —including 23 that have earned Blue Flag status, an international award given to beaches that meet standards of excellence in safety, amenities, cleanliness and environmental practice. One of the unique aspects of staying in Cape Town
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is being able to spend a morning in cosmopolitan pursuits before heading to the sheltered beach of Fish Hoek or quaint Simon’s Town for the afternoon.
Casinos
Throughout South Africa you’ll find dozens of gambling palaces whose size and scale rival those in Europe and North America. Most are part of massive resorts with amenities that may lure you from the gaming tables, including ice-skating rinks and private game parks. Las Vegasstyle amenities (think high-roller lounges, gourmet restaurants, decadent shops) are all available at South Africa’s casinos, too.
Golf
Golf has been popular in South Africa ever since its first course was founded in 1885. Today, worldclass facilities can be found in all nine provinces, and golf giants such as Tiger Woods come to play them. Blessed with great weather and gorgeous natural locations, South Africa is also the birthplace of golf greats of its own, including Ernie Els, Retief Goosen, and Masters winners Trevor Immelman (2008) and Charl Schwartzel (2011). Gary
the mini itinerary Day 1: Hang out at Clifton’s 4th Beach in Cape Town, the place to be seen in summer. Day 2: Indulge in a locally inspired spa treatment at Cape
Town’s Camelot Spa at Table Bay Hotel. Day 3: Play a round of golf at Royal Cape Golf Club, 11-time host of the South African Open.
Player, South Africa’s first golf superstar, is one of only five golfers to win a “career Grand Slam.”
Shopping
From world-class shopping malls in major cities to small craft markets in local villages, South Africa offers great value for your shopping dollar. Ndebele beaded belts and dolls, Zulu baskets woven from rainbow phone wire, and tables and chairs carved from yellowwood are among
the locally produced crafts that will “wow” your friends when you get home. For jewel lovers, Tanzanite— with its deep purple and azure colors—is the stone of choice. And don’t miss the locally produced gold, diamond, and platinum jewelry. Sandton City Mall, Eastgate Shopping Centre, and Fourways and Killarney Malls are some of the best-known local malls. Melrose Arch has a tree-lined mix of
Watch this! The most unusual 19th hole in the world? Watch this video to find out:
Star Designer Gary Player has lent his considerable design talent to many of South Africa’s premier golf courses. Here are some of his greatest works: The acclaimed Gary Player Country Club at Sun City, home of the annual Million Dollar Golf Challenge Two 18-hole golf championship courses at Fancourt Hotel & Country Club in Western Cape
Leopard Creek Golf Course near Malelane in Mpumalanga, with magnificent views of the surrounding bush and plenty of stray wildlife wandering around. Don’t be surprised to find a hippo in the water hazard!
More top golf courses Pecanwood Golf and Country Club, Hartbeespoort Dam, North West: Designed by Jack Nicklaus, the course also boasts the most bunkers of any in South Africa.
Pezula Resort Hotel in Knysna
Royal Cape Golf Club, Cape Town: This course has hosted the South African Open no less than 11 times. Royal Johannesburg and Kensington Golf Club, Gauteng: With two prestigious, scenic 18-hole courses, the club has hosted several South African Open Championships. Humewood Golf Club, Port Elizabeth, Eastern Cape: Consistently ranked in South Africa’s top 10 for the past several years. Pezula Championship Golf Course, Western Cape: This 18-hole course with views of
both Knysna Lagoon and the Indian Ocean is designed to include a full range of shots, making it a rewarding golf experience for players of all levels. Hermanus Golf Course, Western Cape: Whales can be seen off the coast between July and November, while a resident troop of baboons regularly romp across the flat fairways. Selborne Golf Club, KwaZulu-Natal: The South African equivalent of America’s famed Augusta course, water features come in to play on just about every hole. Wild Coast Sun Country Club, near Durban, KwaZuluNatal: The dramatic coastal setting has been used to maximum effect by golf architect Robert Trent Jones.
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Entertainment and Lifestyle: Relax and Recharge
Exploring the photographic creativity of Johannesburg’s Arts on Main.
THE HORN HEARD ROUND THE WORLD: THE VUVUZELA!
I African and European shops. The African Craft Market, inside The Mall at Rosebank, is a great spot for African Masks, clothing and other goods from South Africa and beyond.
Art
Ever seen San rock art? The San Bushmen were the original inhabitants of South Africa, and left behind some 40,000 paintings in the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Mountain Range—the largest collection of its kind in the world. You can view these magnificent works in situ, or in museums like Cape Town’s Iziko SA Museum and The McGregor Museum in Kimberley. South Africa’s rich artistic heritage spans thousands of years, from those first San paintings to colonial-era paintings to contem-
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porary crafts. Read: Art-lovers are in for a treat. Here are a few of the country’s greatest creations: • The South African National Art Gallery, part of Cape Town’s Iziko Museums, features impressive collections ranging from colonial to contemporary art. The main body of the colonial collection consists of Dutch, French and British works from the 17th to the 19th century; the contemporary collection has extensive catalogues of 1980s apartheid art, including repatriated artifacts that were removed from South Africa over the last 200 years. • Known for its daring mix of unusual ceramic art techniques and its bold display of Zulu color and folklore, the Ardmore Ceramic Art Studio, in KwaZulu-Natal, is one of South Africa’s most celebrated
ceramic art studios. • Stretching between the city of Pietermaritzburg and the uKhahlamba-Drakensberg mountains, the 50-mile Midlands Meander is the largest art & craft tourism route in South Africa— and one of the most successful, with over 215 businesses in the arts and crafts, hospitality, heritage and eco-tourism sectors. • The Newtown Cultural Precinct is the heart and soul of Johannesburg’s cultural landscape— packed with museums, art galleries, craft workshops, dance studios, live music venues, nightclubs, bars and restaurants. Among Newtown Cultural Precinct’s more famous landmarks are Museum Africa and the Market Theatre.
t was the sound that defined 2010 throughout the world, a weird, droning, b-note buzz that went on for weeks, and constantly reminded us that we were watching – and listening to – something special: the FIFA World Cup, live and loud from South Africa. That unique buzz, of course, came from the Vuvuzela, the 2-foot long, single-note horn that, like South Africa itself, isn’t really one thing, but a rainbow of bright, happy colors and sounds, all coming together as one. Today Vuvuzelas are a constant presence at South African football matches, and many people take credit for inventing them. The original inspiration probably came from the kudu horn, which traditionally summoned the neighboring tribes of South Africa to come together. The modern version was invented in the 1960s and made of aluminum, but the basic design, so simple and so effective, has been around for millennia.
First-person account
The total experience Carol and Artie, a retired couple from Denville, NJ on their first trip to South Africa
F
rom the moment we stepped off the plane, South Africa took us by surprise . . . and then delighted us over and over again until we found ourselves falling in love with its unique spirit. Combining our thirst for adventure with our affection for the finer things in life, our visit to South Africa was an experience beyond our wildest imagination. Being all new to us, we had no expectations regarding the cuisine. It was, to say the least, sensational. Much like the places we dined. Whether it was the joyous dinner theater fare at Umoja, the leisurely lunch in the middle of a savannah, the afternoon high tea at the Westcliff Hotel, or the invitation to a local chef ’s home in Cape Town where we cooked side by side and indulged in several native Malay dishes, each meal was more delectable than the last. Of course fine dining and trying new foods – springbok,
eland, and biltong – are just two of the variety of attractions. What we both found particularly amazing were the spectacular helicopter ride to Entabeni’s Legend 19th hole, worth a look on YouTube, and our sunset elephant-back safari at Camp Jabulani – if only the neighbors back home could have seen us in our royal splendor! We have been to many
Clockwise from the top: An elephant-back safari in Limpopo; overlooking ‘The Mother City’ in Cape Town; blowing the Vuvuzela in support of South Africa; the contemporary luxury of a five-star game reserve. places around the world, but South Africa is by far the most awe-inspiring destination we have ever visited. Our trip to this country, rich with astonishing natural beauty, warm and friendly people and extraordinary food and wine, was definitely one we will always remember and we certainly plan on visiting again.
Watch this! Watch Carol & Artie’s Adventure in South Africa
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Entertainment and Lifestyle: For Couples
a world of Romance
If you’re like most newlyweds to be, you’ll spend three times as much on your honeymoon as a regular vacation. But even if you’re just looking for a fantastic couples getaway, South Africa delivers bang for the buck—and unsurpassed romantic allure.
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You can give your loved one the world’s largest uncut diamond (well, a good long look at it, anyway) at the Kimberley Mine Museum. A stop on the romantic Blue Train route, the city of Kimberley also has other museums and art galleries to browse through hand-in-hand.
5 You’d be hard pressed to find a more memorable—or exhilarating—place to celebrate your relationship. Here are the top ten reasons why South Africa is the ultimate romantic escape.
1
Want beaches? In Cape Town you can swim in one ocean one day and a different one the next. Durban is another beach hot spot, with three miles of inviting sand in its famous “Golden Mile.”
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2
Enjoy a romantic alfresco dinner at Cape Town’s scenic Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, with magnificent Table Mountain as a backdrop.
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You can have a June wedding and still go skiing on your honeymoon. That’s right: The seasons are reversed in South Africa— and Tiffindell’s on-slope and après-ski facilities rival those of leading U.S. and European resorts.
There’s a reason The Bachelor was filmed in South Africa: It’s the perfect staging ground for an unforgettable date—or ten. From safari game drives to heart-pounding cage dives with great whites to a scenic helicopter tour of Blyde River Canyon, the opportunities for unique two-person escapades are endless.
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Small towns such as Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek along the Cape’s famous Wine Route offer romantic vistas, outstanding cuisine and, of course, world-class wines for toasting
your life together.
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You can spend the morning tracking exotic animals through landscapes far removed from civilization, the afternoon enjoying a highly civilized spa session, and the evening dining on fine cuisine under a panorama of Southern Hemisphere stars. How’s that for a date?
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For those couples seeking an even deeper and more memorable experience, stirring cultural sight-
Saying “I Do” in South Africa
seeing opportunities abound.
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Ready for a night on the town? From the dance clubs of Newtown to the casinos and entertainment venues of Sun City, South Africa has everything a pair of night owls could ask for.
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Maybe oysters are an aphrodisiac, maybe they aren’t—regardless, couples will be enchanted by Knysna, one of the Western Cape’s best known holiday destinations. Succulent oys-
ters are always on the menu here, and an annual Oyster Festival comes through town in July.
A romantic afternoon at Madikwe Game Reserve
Gay Travel in South Africa
South Africa is a liberal country with a progressive constitution, where gay travelers are more than welcome. A number of tour operators–many of them affiliated with IGLTA (International Gay and Lesbian Travel Association) –are available for custom itineraries, from adventure to luxury romance to safari. Cape Town, dubbed the “Gay capital of Africa,” is a favored destination, with its proximity to the Winelands region, iconic tourist attractions, vibrant nightlife and a thriving gay scene.
The search for a breathtaking wedding destination ends here. South Africa offers a stunning backdrop for weddings of all kinds—and there are many tour operators who can assist you in making your special day even more spectacular. the mini itinerary DAY 1: Board the Cape Town-bound Blue Train in Pretoria, an hour north of Johannesburg, and stop to check out the world’s largest uncut diamond, at the Kimberley Mine Museum. DAY 2: Arrive in Cape Town midday, and
unwind with a spa treatment at The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa. DAY 3: Drive to Franschhoek, about an hour outside of Cape Town, and choose from 20 wineries to toast your relationship.
Keep an eye out for discounted romance and honeymoon packages from local outfitters and hotels at www.southafrica.net/deals hot deals
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Adventure and Exploration Clockwise from far left: Taking a flight on a hot-air balloon safari; exploring the mighty Kalahari Desert on ATVs; catching waves at the Eastern Cape’s Jeffreys Bay; ostrich racing in Oudtshoorn.
epic lands and Adrenaline DREAmS
Beyond the safaris, South Africa offers heart-pounding adventures, from no-experience-necessary (hot-air ballooning, sandboarding, shark diving) to extreme (ever tried rappelling?). And with year-round sunny weather, you can enjoy them just about anytime. Here are the top ten ways to test your mettle. Left: melanie fidler, www.melaniefidler.com
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adventure and exploration
Shark Cage Diving
South Africa is without question one of the best destinations in the world for cage diving with great whites. No scuba training or experience is necessary and the operator provides all equipment, including wetsuits and masks. You’ll watch the sharks glide past your cage again and again, occasionally bumping it as they swim (rest assured the sturdy cages are tethered to the sides of the boat and never float free). The Western Cape province is home to the three most popular locations for great white cage diving: False Bay, about 30 minutes from Cape Town; Seal Island, in Mossel Bay; and Shark Alley, the channel that runs between the Dyer Island seal colony and the mainland at Gansbaai (near Hermanus).
Surfing
There are dozens of prime surfing spots within an hour’s drive of Cape Town and along Durban’s famous “Golden Mile” stretch of beaches. Dedicated surfers should try the excellent “supertube” waves at Jeffrey’s Bay or head to Cape St. Francis, where the makers of the cult surfing film Endless Summer found “the perfect wave.” Hartbeespoort Dam, a half-hour drive from Johannesburg, is a popular weekend spot for inland watersports lovers.
Sandboarding
It’s just like it sounds: Slide your feet into a sandboard (a modified snowboard) and start riding down steep, snow-white dunes. Sandboarding has become a major sport in some parts of South Africa, and is extremely popular near Cape Town and in the Eastern Cape. The equipment and techniques are similar to those of snowboarding,
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making it a fun (and warm) way to learn the sport—not to mention a good time in its own right. Betty’s Bay, about an hour’s drive from Cape Town, is a popular sandboarding venue, and a great area for whale watching, surfing, diving, and hiking, too.
Canoeing
Like to paddle? South Africa has no shortage of spectacular rivers and lakes. Here is just a small sampling: • The Orange River snakes its way through majestic mountains and into the Atlantic Ocean at Alexander Bay, on the border with Namibia. • The Vaal River, a tributary of the Orange not far from Johannesburg, has gentle rapids, making it a good choice for those who prefer a more laidback ride. • The Palmiet River in the Western Cape runs through the Kogelberg Nature Reserve and has fantastic rapids and scenery. • The Kosi Bay lake system is a beautiful and biologically unique region of KwaZulu-Natal—and you can explore it on an escorted trip. • The Blyde River in Mpumalanga is one of the most exquisite rivers in South Africa. It has a challenging section with a steep gradient, as well as a tamer stretch for more leisurely paddles.
Quad Cruising
Year-round sunshine, jaw-dropping scenery, and a rich diversity of terrain make South Africa the perfect playground for quad-biking enthusiasts. There are trails in all nine provinces (more than 60 total) and many offer quad bikes for rent along with helmets. You can ride in wildlife reserves, through the Winelands, along the coast, up mountains and past waterfalls—the possibilities are almost endless.
Clockwise from left: Bungee jumping over the Storms River; Coming eye-to-eye with a great white shark in Hermanus; Horseback riding KwaZuluNatal’s coastline.
Watch this! Scan with your smartphone to watch videos of two classic South African adventures: zip-lining (right) and shark cage diving (left)
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adventure and exploration
Bungee Jumping
Hiking in the Cederberg Conservancy.
The 591-foot Bloukrans Bridge, a stop on the scenic Garden Route, is the highest commercial bungee jump in the world. You’d be hardpressed to find a bigger adrenaline rush than this: Seven seconds of freefall into a gaping gorge.
Rappelling
Known to South Africans as abseiling, this extreme sport is popular in many areas of South Africa. Only the most experienced rappellers will be up for the challenge of Graskop Gorge in Mpumalanga, the world’s highest cable gorge swing with a 220-foot freefall. It’s similar to a bungee jump, except that you are strapped to a sitting harness and reach 100 mph in 2.3 seconds.
Zip Lining
The Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour on the Garden Route ranks among the most sophisticated experiences of its kind in the world. On this fully escorted trek, you’ll don a stateof-the-art full-body harness and glide from one tree platform to the next—all the while taking in incredible views of the Eastern Cape’s Tsitsikamma Forest and its diverse wildlife. The total trip consists of eight platforms and nine cable slides (the longest of which is over 260 feet) and takes about three hours to complete. Not bad for a journey of a lifetime.
Hot-Air Ballooning
Nothing beats the experience of floating above the African bushveld in a hot-air balloon. There are two excellent operations in the Magaliesberg and Crocodile River Valley areas near Johannesburg. Escape the city before dawn and watch the sun rise from on high as you toast the new day with a sip of sparkling wine. You can also enjoy a game-viewing flight at Pilanesberg,
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near Sun City, or a scenic flight at Hazyview, in Mpumalanga. During the summer (December through February), you can also fly over the beautiful Paarl vineyards, near Cape Town.
Hiking and Walking
Microlighting
THE HOERIKWAGGO TRAIL:
Gliding over majestic mountains, soaring above stunning scenery— microlighting provides a thrilling way to view wildlife in its natural habitat. Your ride is a two-person mini aircraft and there are qualified pilots and instructors in just about every province of South Africa. Though not for the faint of heart, this increasingly popular adventure is more than rewarding. For more information on these and other adventure activities, visit http://www.southafrica.net/sat/ content/en/us/us-adventure
You don’t need any special skills to experience South Africa’s many excellent, scenic trails—just two sturdy legs and a good pair of hiking boots. This trail spans the entire Table Mountain range, from the city to Cape Point—and a multitude of habitats. Take a two- to five-day, easy-paced hike (you’ll overnight in huts) and keep an eye out for baboons, tortoises, antelopes, ostrich and the rare sugarbird.
THE CEDERBERG MOUNTAINS: Only two and
a half hours from Cape Town, the ancient walking trails of the Cederberg Mountains will take you through fynbos, past rock formations, and over clear mountain
streams. It’s best to visit in spring or autumn, when wildflowers transform the land.
THE RICHTERSVELD: Shared by the Northern Cape and Namibia, this 618-square-mile trans-frontier national park is a dramatic stretch of mountain desert wilderness. You’ll find some of the highest sand dunes in the world here, as well as antelope, zebra, big cats, raptors and the world’s largest range of succulent plants. In the cool season, five-day hiking trails are open. Visitor numbers are limited as the ecosystem is fragile.
adventure and exploration
First-person account
The thrill seeker Yves, an adventure enthusiast from New York, does it all—and then some
M
y journey took me on an adventure beyond my wildest expectations, where I discovered a contrasting beauty, both rustic and refined, that I never imagined existed in one place. I experienced gorgeous coastal beaches, lush forests, and vibrant metropolises. I tried surfing for the first time in Durban’s Indian Ocean and gazed upon whales breaching just offshore in Hermanus. I soared through the treetops with exotic birds on a zip-line canopy tour and had a black-tie breakfast with penguins on Boulders Beach. Later, I got up close and personal with one of the most revered predators in the world while cage diving with great white sharks. Then, for the ultimate adrenaline rush, I took a literal “leap of faith” from the highest commercial bungee jump in the world at Bloukrans Bridge. South Africa was even an
Clockwise from top: Table Mountain always brings a smile; Surf’s Up! on Durban’s Golden Mile; Yves getting some traditional face painting over dinner in Johannesburg.
adventure for my taste buds. A trip to Groot Constantia, one of the oldest wine estates in the world, gave me the opportunity to try Napoleon’s favorite wine. Along the vibrant Long Street in the heart of Cape Town, I sampled local delicacies—ostrich, springbok and crocodile—and was introduced to the music of seven young men from the
PHOTOS: melanie fidler, www.melaniefidler.com
nearby Gugulethu Township; their pride and passion was inspiring and my heart was touched when they invited me to sing and dance along with them. I believe no trip to South Africa would be complete without the quintessential safari experience. This was perhaps my most highly anticipated stop on the trip, and
seeing my first pride of lions in the KwaZulu-Natal province gave me a profound sense of their power and grace. The warmth and generosity of all those I encountered will remain one of the most enduring memories of my visit to South Africa—and the endless possibilities for further discovery left me eager to return. Southafrica.net
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KIRSTENBOSCH BOTANICAL GARDENS
Suggested Itineraries
FRANSCHHOEK STELLENBOSCH DYER ISLAND
planning the journey You’ve seen what South Africa has to offer. Now put the pieces together and create the trip of a lifetime.
H
ere are three suggested itineraries for your South Africa vacation. Each is planned around a special interest theme, and takes two weeks or less. But you should add or subtract your own excursions from all three (adventurers will probably want to visit Kruger National Park, for instance). All trips originate in Johannesburg, the country’s international air gateway. ITINERARY 1
Classic South Africa
Plush hotels, scenic beaches, soothing spas— and one fine safari Johannesburg – 2 nights
Arrive in Joburg and spend the first two nights in a luxurious boutique hotel in the Rosebank/Sandton neighborhood, where gourmet meals and a pampering spa will banish your jet lag. From here, you can explore the region’s rich cultural offerings: Take a guided tour of the historic township of Soweto, where you can see the home of Archbishop Desmond Tutu and the former home of Nelson Mandela; visit the Apartheid Museum; or take in Gold Reef City. You can also indulge in some shopping (check out the boutiques and high-end malls of Sandton or Melrose, among others) or venture to Sun City, the amazing mecca of
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entertainment and casinos two hours away.
Mpumalanga – 3 nights
Take a short flight to Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga. The small opulent lodges are so close to the wildlife, including the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), that you’ll be able to snap close-ups without a telephoto lens. Not only is the wildlife viewing some of the best in the world, but you can expect unforgettable staff and service. Great meals are prepared by trained chefs and accompanied by fine local wines, right in the middle of the bush. Dining under the stars amid the sounds of the wild is an unparalleled experience. Most luxury safari lodges also have spas on the premises.
Greater Cape Town – 4 nights
The next stop, via air, is cosmopolitan Cape Town. Hop the ferry to Robben Island for an emotional visit to the former prison where Nelson Mandela was held for two decades. Then return to the pleasures of the Waterfront where you can enjoy local performers, shop at the Victoria and Alfred Mall, and eat at top restaurants. The next day, take the rotating cable car to the top of Table Mountain; the entire city is laid out at your feet. Descend and drive to lovely Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. Stop for lunch at one of the small wine estates in Constantia, where lush vineyards evoke the south
of France. In the afternoon, enjoy the spa at Twelve Apostles Hotel and Wellness Centre, or soak up some sun on the beach at Camp’s Bay. Stay for sundowners (cocktails) at sunset. You can also dedicate a day to exploring the natural beauty of Cape Point. Stop at Boulders Beach along the way to see the penguin colony. At the Point, you can spot baboons, zebra and antelope from your window, and then stand overlooking the most southwestern tip of Africa. Just beyond Cape Town, the spectacular Winelands await. Paarl, Stellenbosch, or Franschhoek are good destinations to explore on your final day—rent a car or hire a driver and prepare to be dazzled. Some of the best wines in the world are grown in the most beautiful vineyards anywhere. Wine tasting is just one of the activities available; there’s also gourmet dining, golf, spas, and historic French and Dutch architecture.
Grand Finale – 2-3 nights
Wrap up your South Africa adventure on a high note—or three. Here are a few of the many ways you can enjoy your last days in paradise: • Travel the Garden Route from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth in the Eastern Cape. • Visit Durban in KwaZulu-Natal to experience both Zulu and Indian culture. • Travel by train between Cape Town and Joburg stopping in historic Kimberley along the way.
ITINERARY 2
Operation Adventure
South Africa as wild as you want it to be Durban and Up the North Coast – 3 nights
After a short layover in Joburg, start your journey in the country’s third largest city, the port town of Durban. Beach lovers head there in droves just to lounge on Durban’s Golden Mile, but there’s also great surfing and kayaking on the mild Indian Ocean waters. For an unprecedented wildlife encounter, book a walking safari on Umfolozi wilderness hiking trails in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, where you’ll have a chance to come face to face with the Big Five. Since no vehicles are allowed in this section of the park, you’ll experience some of the most pristine bush in the world. These are some of the best walking safaris in all of Africa.
Garden Route – 3 nights
A short flight from Durban to Port Elizabeth takes you to the scenic Garden Route, which wends along the coast towards Cape Town. Drive at your own pace and stop often. Surfers will want to check out Jeffrey’s Bay or head to Cape St. Francis, the setting for the cult film Endless Summer. Tsitsikamma National Park and the mouth of the Storms River comprise impressive virgin forest even though it’s surprisingly close to towns such as Plettenberg Bay, whose luxury lodgings overlook sparkling Indian Ocean waters, and Knysna, where the local oysters are a must. Day walking trails are easily traversed, but one of the best ways to see the coastal pools, gorges, forests, and empty beaches is to choose one of the overnight hiking trails: either the fivenight Otter Trail backpacking excursion or the less strenuous three-night Dolphin Trail. If you’re just looking for
ZIMBABWE
AFRICA
BOTSWANA
SOUTH AFRICA
Itinerary 3:
Cultural Connections Itinerary 2:
KGALAGADI TRANSFRONTIER PARK
Operation Adventure
PRETORIA SOWETO
NAMIBIA
A 45-minute excursion from Joburg takes you to one of the most prized archaeological finds in history: Sterkfontein Caves, aka “The Cradle of Humankind.” The three-millionyear-old remains of a female skeleton known as “Mrs. Ples” were discovered here, and she’s considered to be concrete evidence of the connection between humans and apes. On your way back to Joburg, stop off at Lesedi Cultural Village. Pretoria, South Africa’s executive capital, is another easy day trip. Visit the massive granite Voortrekker Monument, the Paul Kruger House, and the Union Buildings where the inauguration of Nelson Mandela was held—and where the current President now works. You can also get the best views of the city from here. About 30 minutes north of the city is the fully operational Cullinan Diamond Mine. A guided tour will take you through the diamond mining process.
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
MOZAMBIQUE
Itinerary 1:
classic South africa JOHANNESBURG SWAZILAND
HLUHLUWEUMFOLOZI GAME RESERVE
UPINGTON
LESOTHO
DURBAN
SOUTH AFRICA SOUTH ATLANTIC OCEAN
INDIAN OCEAN
WINELANDS ROBBEN ISLAND
PAARL
CAPE TOWN CAPE POINT HERMANUS
OUDTSHOORN GARDEN ROUTE
PORT ELIZABETH
PLETTENBERG BAY
TSITSIKAMMA NATIONAL FOREST
Cape Town – 3 nights ITINERARY 3
Cultural Connections For lovers of history and the arts an adrenaline rush, skip the hike and take a 591-foot bungee jump from the Bloukrans Bridge. Continuing to the west, visit an ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn, where you can ride one of the great birds or watch local jockeys race. Still farther west is Hermanus, the whalewatching capital of the world. Even if you miss prime calving season, August through September, you’ll see whales as well as dolphins frolicking off the shores. At nearby Dyer Island, the specialty is great white shark diving: You’re lowered into the water in a cage while the waters are filled with bait to lure the sharks. It’s an exhilarating experience you’ll be telling friends about for years to come.
Cape Town – 3 nights
If you believe that the harder the trip the greater the reward, skip the
map:Joni Danaher
cable car and explore the rocky slopes of Table Mountain by foot. Hiking straight to the top takes about 2 hours, or you can try one of the overnight hiking and camping options to truly experience the mountain. Other activities include bicycle trips to Cape Point and a variety of water sports along the city’s many beaches.
Kalahari – 3 nights
Fly from Cape Town to Upington, the jumping off point to the Kalahari’s Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, one of the largest remaining protected natural ecosystems in the world. Safari drives here will introduce you to the exotic wildlife that thrives in this arid climate. In addition, the Kalahari is also home to the last remaining San (bushmen) and their rich heritage of cave paintings and rock carvings.
Johannesburg – 4 nights
Begin your trip with a visit to the Apartheid Museum and Museum Africa. Then take a tour of Soweto to see Freedom Square and other memorials and buildings that symbolize the struggle against apartheid. Take a break at one of Soweto’s restaurants and enjoy an authentic South African meal. For a look at Joburg’s history as a gold mining town, visit Gold Reef City.
Cultural Add-ons
If you’d like to extend your cultural journey into other parts of South Africa, consider these options: • Explore the Xosa origins of Nelson Mandela in the Eastern Cape villages of Qunu and
Several spots in Cape Town illuminate the political history of the country. The former prison at Robben Island is a moving testament to the strength of the human spirit and the District Six Museum is another poignant tribute to the past. Other history-filled destinations in this beautiful city include the Great Synagogue and Jewish Museum, the Castle of Good Hope, the Bo-Kaap Museum (a tribute to the Malay and Muslim population), and the South African National Gallery, which showcases art that tells the story of the country. Be sure to have dinner at Mama Africa, Africa Café or Marco’s African Cafe, among others, to sample dishes that reflect the melting pot that is South Africa.
Umtata. • Journey deep into Limpopo to TzaneenModjadji and visit the village of the Rain Queen. • Visit artistic Clarens and see what real life is like on a typical South African farm in the Free State.
• Pay your respects to the King of the Zulus at the monument of Shaka Zulu in KwaZulu-Natal. • Enjoy the colorful paintings and beadwork of the Ndebele people with a visit to Botshabelo in Mpumalanga province.
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