South Africa trip | Self-drive adventure South Africa

The 'Dolphin Coast', or the KwaZulu Natal North Coast, is known for its abundant population of dolphins swimming in the waters of the Indian Ocean. One of the most beautiful places in the province, the Dolphin Coast offers a rich cultural heritage, excellent fishing opportunities and spectacular golden beaches surrounded by sugarcane fields and punctuated by pretty coastal towns. This exceptionally beautiful coastline stretches north of the Durban metropolis, past well-developed beach resorts and golf courses to more remote areas with long stretches of pristine beaches, wetlands and lakes. You can enjoy the sun-drenched days with a fantastic range of activities. For instance, some activities include swimming in tide pools, surfing beautiful waves or unwinding on beaches.

Much of the native forest in this eastern part of the Garden Route falls within Tsitsikamma National Park. The park is not only a wonderful place for native flora and fauna but also for marine life. About 5.5 km of ocean is part of the park.

Isimangaliso means wonder, or one of the best things you will ever see. You will not be disappointed by this extraordinary ecosystem. Isimangaliso surrounds Lake St. Lucia and has been a World Heritage Site since 1999. The park is home to the lake, beaches, grasslands, dunes and a marine reserve. It is home to a great biodiversity, including 521 species of birds. Attractions include high forested sand dunes, large numbers of nesting turtles, whales, dolphins, whale sharks and large numbers of water birds, including large colonies of pelicans. In recent years, buffalo and elephants have been reintroduced on the eastern shore of the lake.

The rugged Cape Peninsula stretches into the Atlantic Ocean and is the southwesternmost point of the African continent. It boasts pristine white sand beaches with steep mountains interspersed with quaint small coastal towns. Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope can be found on the southern side of this spectacularly beautiful peninsula, while the northern tip is crowned by the world-famous Table Mountain that towers over the city of Cape Town. Visitors can look forward to a wide selection of activities, including: hopping on a boat trip to Seal Island from Hout Bay, exploring the beautiful Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and watching the colony of African penguins on Boulders Beach in Simon's Town. Don't miss the chance to take in the breathtaking views from the top of Table Mountain.

East of the forested Ezulwini Valley in the traditional land of eSwatini lies the town of Lobamba. Known as the cultural, spiritual and political heart of the country, this fascinating destination boasts remarkable British-era buildings, informative museums and hosts sensational Incwala and Umhlanga ceremonies. Travellers can wander around the gardens of the memorial park for King Sobhuza II, enjoy a round of 18-hole golf at the picturesque Royal Swazi Golf Course, gain more insight into the country's history at the National Museum of Swaziland, or immerse themselves in culture at the fascinating Mantenga Cultural Village. Not to be missed is the beautiful Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, a lush park with hiking and horseback riding trails and an abundance of wildlife, including zebras, giraffes and several bird species.

Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city. It is also the economic heart of South Africa, home to all the major financial and industrial companies. Johannesburg was founded following the discovery of gold in the Witwatersrand in 1886. At that time, the Witwatersrand lay within the borders of the South African Republic, of which Paul Kruger was president. The Republic had been established in consultation with the British government, which was administering the Cape Province at the time. Following the discovery of gold, control of the region became a matter of dispute.
Johannesburg’s city centre is colourful, lively and exotic, with its diverse cultural offerings. Of particular interest is the ‘Carlton Centre’ on Commissaris Street. This skyscraper was built in the 1970s, stands 220 metres tall and remains the tallest building in Africa. On the top floor is a viewing platform called ‘The Best of Africa’. From a height of 202 metres, you can enjoy an impressive view over Johannesburg.
Outside the city centre, in the Fourways district, you’ll find the new theme park “Monte Casino”, whilst “Gold Reef City” is situated in the south of the city. Here, you can learn about the history of gold mining in an entertaining way. The new Apartheid Museum is also well worth a visit. And if you’re looking for the best shops in the country, head to Mandela Square in Sandton.

Gauteng is South Africa’s smallest province, but it is the commercial and administrative heart of the country and indeed of the whole of southern Africa.
The name Gauteng is the Sotho name for ‘Place of Gold’. In fact, a huge gold vein was discovered in this province in 1886, and gold quickly became the foundation of the national economy. During mining operations, further riches were unearthed, such as diamonds and coal.
But Gauteng is more than just cities, money and politics. For example, the Sterkfontein Caves were designated a World Heritage Site after bones dating back no less than 3.5 million years were found there. This site is also known as the Cradle of Humankind.

One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, affectionately known to locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', has 11 official languages, and its people are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover Cape Town's gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife and beautiful beaches. Enjoy a local braai (barbecue) in the community of Soweto, browse the bustling Indian markets in Durban, or taste some of the world's best wines at the numerous wine estates scattered across the Cape Winelands. Some historical attractions to explore include the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all, the untamed wilderness is amazing: wildlife roams freely across huge unfenced game reserves such as the world-famous Kruger National Park.

The small village of Hazyview, founded in the early 20th century by a Canadian Boer, lies on the banks of the Sabie River in the Lowveld. The village borders the south-western boundary of Kruger National Park and is surrounded by orchards.
The climate of this region provides ideal growing conditions for bananas. The name Hazyview comes from the light summer mist that hangs over the town during the hot summer months.
The town is also an excellent base for safaris into Kruger National Park and offers a wide range of other activities, such as golf, quad biking, rafting and hot-air ballooning.

The Lowveld of Mpumalanga province stretches from the eastern part of the province to the border with Swaziland and Mozambique in the east.
To the north-west, the Lowveld is separated from the Highveld by slopes a few hundred metres high.

It is not only the proximity to Kruger National Park, but also the beautiful landscape – dominated by granite hills and subtropical fruit plantations – that makes this area particularly attractive.

Among the most attractive tourist towns in the Lowveld region are White River and Hazyview, which serve as ideal bases for excursions to Kruger National Park. However, the towns themselves also offer many other sights and attractions.

There are a number of so-called Private Game Reserves located both in and around Kruger National Park. These are parks that have been established and are maintained using private capital. In Private Game Reserves, it is not permitted to go on a safari in your own car. In some parks, however, you are allowed to drive from the entrance to your lodge.
Many of these Private Game Reserves are situated on the western edge of Kruger National Park, with many in the Hoedspruit area. Since 1994, a number of Private Reserves have removed the boundary fences with Kruger National Park, creating a larger area for wildlife.

A well-known destination for local and international visitors, Thornybush has earned its reputation as one of the finest bush experiences in the country. Situated within 14,000 hectares of pristine wilderness adjacent to the Kruger National Park, Thornybush Nature Reserve is a true escape from city life.

Thanks to its vast array of wildlife, vast savannahs and long history, the Kruger National Park is South Africa’s most visited attraction. And rightly so, as this wildlife park is one of the most beautiful and largest safari parks in the world. The park is no less than 352 kilometres long, an average of 60 kilometres wide and covers almost 19,000 km². The more than 1 million visitors each year come in search of the Big 5 (the lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard), hippos, antelopes, giraffes, impalas, zebras, gemsboks and much more. In total, there are more than 147 species of mammals, 507 species of birds, 120 species of reptiles, 52 species of fish and 35 species of amphibians. To see all of this, you’ll need at least two weeks.
The Kruger National Park has a long history. 25,000 years ago, the San, also known as the Bushmen, lived here. They left behind impressive rock paintings which can be viewed at Masorini and Thulamela, amongst other places. Towards the end of the 19th century, the South African government – then known as the Volksraad – recognised the need to protect nature. Under the leadership of Paul Kruger, the Volksraad banned hunting between the Sabie and Crocodile rivers in the southern part of what is now Kruger National Park.
In 1898, Kruger established the Sabie Game Reserve. In the years that followed, the park expanded and in 1927 it was opened to the public. Since then, it has been an important research centre and protected area for African wildlife. In 2002, Kruger, together with Gonarezhou National Park and Limpopo National Park in Mozambique, became part of the vast Great Limpopo Transfrontier Park.

Recently, Swaziland changed its name to eSwatini. The country is a green and mountainous kingdom, awaits you a piece of original and authentic Africa with friendly, traditionally living people and grand natural landscapes with dense forests, rivers, waterfalls and unique rock formations. This is why connoisseurs sometimes refer to Swaziland as the Switzerland of Africa. But it is not just the landscape that leaves an impression, the Swazi themselves are very proud of their independence and cultural heritage. The stories of ancestors are still relived today through rituals and ceremonies, and not just at tourist sites, but as an important part of social life.

The coast of KwaZulu-Natal is not called South Africa’s beach paradise for nothing. Here you’ll find kilometres of beaches, some of which are virtually deserted. The stunning sand dunes and the warm Indian Ocean also provide a beautiful setting for a carefree holiday.
The Dolphin Coast owes its name to the dolphins frequently spotted off the coast, drawn by the warm waters. This stretch of coastline is a melting pot of cultures. You’ll find old settlers, traditional Zulus, French settlers from Mauritius (sugar cane farmers, which explains why so much sugar cane is grown in the area) and Indians. These days, this stretch of coastline is a place where people from Durban come to relax on the beach.
More than 2,000 different plant species call this area home, many of which are extremely rare and endangered. From lush forests to savannahs and marshes, there are numerous habitats here for a wide variety of mammals and birds. The area is criss-crossed by rivers, lakes and lagoons. The Elephant Coast offers excellent opportunities to see the ‘Big Five’, as well as the chance to spot whales (in season).

Stormsriver Village, in South Africa's Eastern Cape, is backed by the mighty Storms River Peak of the Tsitsikamma Mountains and surrounded by a forest of indigenous forests and is a paradise for adventure sports enthusiasts. In Tsitsikamma National Park and other nearby parks - characterised by jungles, rivers and sea full of wildlife - adrenaline junkies can enjoy canopy, ziplining, tubing, kayaking, snorkelling, segway riding, cycling and hiking. A particularly popular attraction nearby is the Bloukrans River Bridge, the highest in Africa, where you can enjoy spine-tingling bungee jumping. The famous Otter Trail starts here and the surfing mecca Jeffrey's Bay is just 80 kilometres away. Other highlights include luxury spas, charming craft stalls and boutiques; and a collection of interesting restaurants, such as Marilyn's 60's Diner, a retro eatery decorated with a jukebox, 1961 Dodge Lancer and several other vintage cars.

The Garden Route in the Western Cape is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations. The Garden Route stretches from Mossel Bay in the west, via Wilderness and Knysna, and past Plettenberg Bay in the east, and is one of the most beautiful stretches of coastline in South Africa.
A brief explanation: the ‘Garden Route’ refers to an African ‘garden’, which cannot be compared to the neatly manicured and landscaped gardens of Europe. Here, alongside coastal areas and lush rainforests, you’ll also find beautiful beaches nestled amongst rocks, towering mountains and small hamlets scattered between the sea and the land. The mild, temperate, almost European Mediterranean climate is often compared to that of the Portuguese Algarve.

Knysna lies at the heart of the Garden Route and is undoubtedly the jewel of the Western Cape and the Garden Route. The beach lies beside a lagoon with crystal-clear blue water and is bordered on the other side by mountains and dense forests. These forests are the oldest in the whole of South Africa and even extend right into the town centre. For spectacular views, you can walk along one of the two ‘heads’. These sandstone cliffs stretch all the way to the point where the lagoon flows into the Indian Ocean. From the head on the east side, you’ll have a breathtaking view of Knysna, the lagoon and Leisure Isle. On the west side lies the Featherbed Nature Reserve. But be sure to visit the marina and the centre of Knysna as well. The many boutiques and interior design shops selling wooden trinkets are certainly worth exploring.
Knysna is famous for its oysters and wild elephants. The oysters are loved worldwide for their distinctive flavour. Large herds of wild elephants once lived here, but their numbers have dwindled significantly due to hunting. Nowadays, it is very rare to spot one.

The Western Cape, perhaps the most scenic and diverse of South Africa's nine provinces, serves as a key spot for visitors to South Africa. Located in the south-western corner of the country, the province is blessed with beautiful coastlines, breathtaking mountains, indigenous forests, historic wine estates and scorched stretches of a strikingly beautiful semi-desert. Visitors can enjoy everything from the beautiful city of Cape Town with its iconic Table Mountain and the stunning surrounding Winelands, to the exciting outdoor activities and spectacular natural scenery of the Garden Route. Also be sure to visit the fynbos-covered sand dunes, white beaches and remote fishing villages on the less-discovered West Coast. The Western Cape is an absolute must when visiting South Africa!

Stellenbosch is South Africa’s second-oldest town. It is a charming town in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
It was in 1679, almost 333 years ago, that the then Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel, left the familiar surroundings of the Cape for the very first time to search for new land. This followed the Cape colony coming under Dutch rule in 1652, when the VOC (the Dutch East India Company) established a supply station there.
On 8 November, he set up camp on the banks of the Eerste River. Van der Stel was so impressed by the surroundings that he decided almost immediately to establish a new settlement there, named after himself – the beginnings of Stellenbosch. This makes the town the oldest European settlement in South Africa, situated barely 50 kilometres from Cape Town.
Stellenbosch is still often referred to as the ‘City of Oaks’, and the reason for this is obvious. Most of the city’s avenues are lined with centuries-old oak trees. Some of them even date back to the 19th century. The many oak trees are a remnant of the great demand for oak timber in the early days of the wine farms. The winegrowers, who were originally from Europe, were accustomed to making their wine barrels from oak.
Even before the end of 1679, the first farms began to appear in the region. A proper village did not emerge until 1685, when magistrate Jan Mulder was appointed. At that time, thirty farms were established to help supply the mother city of Cape Town.
Some of these farms still exist to this day. Simon van der Stel personally oversaw the handover of the first residential properties in the town on 15 October 1686. The magistrate’s official residence, known as the drostdy, was completed in April 1687 and is the site where the Theological Seminary stands today.
On a stroll through the town centre, you’ll see the beautifully preserved Cape-Dutch houses lining the oak-lined streets. In the town museum, a number of houses from different centuries have been furnished and are open to visitors – definitely a lovely outing.
Stellenbosch is also home to a major university and, of course, Uncle Sammie’s shop – a general store, a real one-stop shop.
The icon of the town of Stellenbosch is the impressive Mother Church. The original church burnt down as early as 1710, and it took more than ten years for a new one to be built. In 1814, the church was extended, eventually taking on its final form some fifty years later. The church is now in the Neo-Gothic style and was designed by the German architect Carl Otto Hagar.

You’ll enjoy yourself to the full in the so-called ‘Cape Winelands’, which encompasses the Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek regions. This region is home to some of South Africa’s finest vineyards, whose wines have been popular beyond South Africa’s borders for many years now.
Many vineyards have wine cellars where you can learn more about wine production and sample the wines. The wine industry in South Africa has a long history, dating back to April 1652 when Jan van Riebeeck set foot ashore in Table Bay and quickly realised that good wine could be grown here, thanks to the excellent climate. No sooner said than done: the first vines from France arrived by ship as early as 1659, and the first wine was produced. In 1679, the second town in the Cape, Stellenbosch, was founded; it is now the centre of the South African wine industry.

With the majestic Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Lively yet relaxed, the city is like no other. It is often compared to Rio de Janeiro, Sydney and San Francisco. But many travellers agree: Cape Town is the most beautiful city in the world. The location is fabulous, set amidst national parks of exceptional natural beauty. And the city is surrounded by two oceans, with beautiful, expansive beaches. It inspires countless visitors year after year. Cape Town’s fascinating 350-year history, its variety of historic and modern buildings, its multicultural flair, the city’s maritime character, the laid-back lifestyle of its residents and the bustling Victoria & Alfred Waterfront all contribute to the city’s unique appeal.
Be sure to admire the mix of different architectural styles too. Nestled amongst the tall skyscrapers in the city centre are the old Victorian houses, most of which have been restored and are being preserved. Don’t forget to take in the beautiful examples of Cape Dutch architecture. Narrow streets and the large Muslim community in the Bo-Kaap enhance the city’s cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Enjoy the sun on Camps Bay beach, or relax in one of the many cafés along the promenade – the perfect spot for people-watching amongst the city’s flamboyant residents.
A short distance from the city, you’ll find the colourful Kirstenbosch Gardens, repeatedly named one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. A visit to Cape Point and the penguins at Boulders Beach is also highly recommended.
Whether you’re interested in history, culture, outdoor activities, the local cuisine or simply a great place to shop, this beautiful city has it all!

A perfect combination of rural and sophisticated, KwaZulu-Natal is a coastal province in South Africa. Here, striking modern malls rest adjacent to lush green suburbs, mountainscapes contrast with flat, arid savannahs, and the inviting, warm waters of the beach are an escape from the hustle and bustle of the towns' central streets. Visitors can look forward to discovering a wealth of historical and cultural experiences, exploring the Indian-influenced city of Durban, and spotting abundant wildlife while on safari in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park - a famed Big Five game reserve. Outdoor and adventure activities include surfing, hiking, fishing, and much, much more.

Just north of Ballito on the north coast of Kwa-Zulu Natal, Salt Rock offers a laid-back holiday atmosphere for beach lovers. Once the home of King Shaka Zulu, the richness of this destination now lies in its irresistible golden beaches, turquoise tide pools, and warm Indian Ocean waves, and cosmopolitan restaurants. Besides swimming and sunbathing, visitors can also look forward to skydiving, fishing, diving, snorkelling, and excellent coastal walks, as well as leisurely strolls along the wooden boardwalks beside the ocean for stunning views. The beautiful Litchi orchard market is a great place to sample delicious local food and browse among beautiful arts and crafts.

The small town of St Lucia is situated at the mouth of Lake St Lucia, on a narrow peninsula bordered by the St Lucia estuary to the west and the Indian Ocean to the east. A subtropical climate, beautiful wide beaches, the world’s tallest vegetated dunes, hippos, crocodiles and a variety of birds make St Lucia a popular seaside resort on the Elephant Coast.
The vast Lake St Lucia is one of Africa’s largest freshwater lakes. If you take a trip across the lake, you’ll see thousands of flamingos, pelicans, waders and other waterbirds. But it is also home to around 1,500 Nile crocodiles and 900 hippos. This is the largest concentration of hippos and crocodiles in South Africa. You’re guaranteed to spot a few.
Should you decide to go for a swim at the beaches of St Lucia, we advise you to pay close attention to the signs and exercise due caution. There may be strong currents and there is a chance you may encounter sharks. Warning signs are posted here and there, but these do not, of course, offer any protection against sharks.

Marloth Park lies on the southern border of the world-famous Kruger National Park, on the banks of the Crocodile River. It is a tranquil holiday spot in the beautiful Mpumalanga province. Inhabited by abundant wildlife, this 3,000-hectare park is home to four members of the Big Five. Rhino, lion and buffalo are found in Marloth Park's Lionspruit Game Reserve, while kudu, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, ostrich, impala and warthog roam freely among holiday homes, lodges and hotels. Visitors can see elephants playing in the river, catch a glimpse of some magnificent animals from the lookout points and watch the spectacular sunset over the African bushveld. This park offers a range of activities, including guided game walks, game drives, night safaris, mountain biking, fishing, quad biking, horse riding, bird watching AND it is even possible to play golf at Skukuza.