South Africa, commonly known as the Republic of South Africa is a beautiful country with so much to offer. Its size is roughly the size of France and Spain combined. You will be blown away by the savannah vegetation, desert land, wildlife, gorges, spectacular cultures, and many more attractions
Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the oldest game reserves in South Africa and among the most famous safari parks in the world. The park has a wide diversity of wildlife including the big five (lion, rhino, elephant, leopard, cape buffalo) and others like cheetahs, giraffes, etc. There are various ways to explore this national park; you can choose an aerial view of the place in a hot air balloon, walking safari, or through sealed road. Accommodation options range from luxury lodges to tented camps.
Garden Route
This route is a 200 kilometer stretch through the mind-blowing scenery of the coast. It passes along the Indian Ocean in the Western Cape to the Eastern Cape. Through the route are captivating cliffs, hills, lagoons, lakes, and picturesque coastal towns. If you feel adventurous, you can do the bungee jump, elephant back rides, whale watching, and tree tours.
Durban
If you want to enjoy some peace and quiet at the beach, Durban is the best bet for you. Marine parks, water sports, or just relaxing at the beach. The place is often compared to Miami beaches. The Durban beaches are safe and clean. It is a great place to start as you tour the city. It has high-rise restaurants, shops, entertainment complexes, etc. You can also visit the marine world and mini town which is a replica of Durban.
Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve
It is sometimes referred to as Motlatse River Canyon and it is between Kruger National Park and Johannesburg. Blyde River Canyon, Africa’s second largest canyon, is extremely rich in biodiversity (both plants and animals). The foliage, rock formations, waterfalls, and rivers are a sight to behold. You will spot crocodiles, hippos, primates, and other wildlife if you decide to view game. To take in the beauty of this reserve, you may opt to hike the trails or use certain driving routes.
Johannesburg
This is the largest city in South Africa with large deposits of gold, therefore nicknamed. “city of gold”. The city is very vibrant with activity hence an economic engine for the country. To gain a bit of historical knowledge, you can visit Apartheid Museum, Gold Reef City, and Constitution Hill. The shanty towns of Soweto are in Johannesburg too so you can head there and see where South Africa’s democracy was birthed.
Robben Island
This institute is famous for the imprisonment of Nelson Mandela for 18 years. It is a testament to triumph even in the most difficult situations. It is listed as a World Heritage and is a reminder of the struggle to end apartheid. Ex-prisoners are the guides who narrate the horrors they had to experience in exchange for freedom.