South Africa
South Africa Travel Information
South Africa lies on the southern tip of Africa and is divided up into nine provinces. It boasts over 1,700 miles of coastline and some of the world's most fantastic scenery.
Not many destinations can provide the diverse experiences on offer in the Rainbow Nation.
The first time you visit South Africa, we guarantee you'll be inspired, and not just by the astonishing beauty of its landscapes, and richness of its culture.
From chic and stylish Cape Town, overlooked by Table Mountain, through Durban's golden beaches, to the rugged grandeur of Kruger National Park, this is a country with something very special to offer.
A destination that changes those lucky enough to visit.
We would definitely suggest a self-drive or escorted tour along the world famous Garden Route, a breathtakingly scenic drive stretching 150 miles along the coast of the Western Cape.
Of course, no trip to South Africa would be complete without going on a safari.
South Africa - Favorite Holiday, Flight and City Break Destinations
Captivating Cape Town
As one of South Africa's most beautiful and most visited cities, Cape Town offers so much to its visitors.
With its pristine beaches, Table Mountain - the city's most famous landmark, excellent art galleries, as well as a cool urban edge with quirky yet trendy bars, world rated restaurants and design savvy shops.
These are just some of the reasons why it was voted the 2014 Design Capital of the World.
Winelands
The magnificent Winelands forms part of South Africa's Western Cape province and are home to 18 official wine routes and two brandy routes.
Each offer wine tasting, wine making tours, excellent cuisine and magnificent scenery.
Hermanus is build along the beautiful shores of Walker Bay and is the official whale watching capital of the world. It is surrounded by spectacular natural beauty and fantastic cuisine.
Garden Route
The Garden Route is a sunny, scenic stretch on the south eastern coastline of South Africa.
It is a fine example of variation that makes this country so special, with gorgeous beaches, beautiful flora, lush forests, bustling seaside towns and tranquil lagoons.
The best way to experience this malaria free region, is at your own pace with a self drive tour although many escorted tour companies include The Garden Route in their tours.
The Eastern Cape
This province is not just famous for its abundant wildlife, but also for its traditional vilages and locals with a warm and welcoming smile.
Most people who travel here have one thing on their minds, safari. In particular the 'big five'. This is a term given to the most dangerous and difficult animals to spot - buffalo, elephant, lion, leopard and rhino.
Durban
Durban is a popular destination with warm weather all year round and is known for its pristine beaches and fantastic surf.
The city's cuisine and architecture are based around an eclectic mix of Zulu, Indian and post colonial influences.
KwaZulu Natal is South Africa's third smallest province, yet it has so much to offer with its bushveld reserves, historic battlefields, and famous Drakensburg mountains.
Johannesburg
This city is more commonly known as Jo'burg and is rapidly becoming a vibrant and popular tourist destination.
As the second largest city in South Africa, it is ever evolving yet still offers that sought after cultural encounter.
Located 50km outside of Johannesburg is the city of Pretoria, South Africa's administrative capital and home to gracious old houses and beautiful suburbs.
Krugar National Park
If you want wildlife, then Kruger National Park definitely wont disappoint.
This famed, protected area offers some of South Africa's best game viewing opportunities.
It also boasts some of the regions finest and award winning accommodation and passionate game rangers that will ensure you'll experience a safari to remember.
Sun City
Fun in the sun at Sun City Resort which is also known as Africa's kingdom of pleasure, home to luxury hotels, theme parks, world famous golf courses and stunning surroundings.
It certainly has something for everyone in this beautiful malaria free landscape.
South Africa Travel Information
Beyond South Africa
Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls, less than a two hour flight from Johannesburg, is a wonderful option if you're looking to extend your South African adventure.
This stunning falls were once known by local tribes as 'the smoke that thunders', and to this day they remain a dazzling and loud sight to behold!
There's plenty to do in the area, take a dip in Devil's Pool, bungee jump from the falls, enjoy river cruises, admire rich local arts and crafts, go fishing or even play a round of golf.
Mozambique
It's palm fringed beaches and coral reefs aplenty in Mozambique.
This beautiful south east African country sits leisurely along the shores of the Indian Ocean and is positively bursting with things to do, all of which is just one hours flight from Johannesburg.
Swim with dolphins, go diving or snorkelling, take a trip to the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park to see dugong and marine turtles, or head to a reserve for a Mozambique safari trip.
Not feeling up to an action packed adventure? Then simply laze on the shores of the sugary white sands instead.
When to Travel
Africa's weather is diverse, and when to go really depends on what you want to do and see there.
Seasons approximately fall as -
Spring - September and October
Summer - November to February
Autumn - March and May
Winter - June to August
Game viewing, is generally regarded to be better in winter months as the bush is more sparse to see the animals.
City and beach breaks around Cape Town, the Garden Route and Sun City are most popular in the summer.
A visit to the Winelands is best during wine harvest season which is February to April or maybe Hermanus for some southern right whale viewing between the months of June and November.
South Africa with Hessle Travel
From simple breaks, escorted tours to complex multi centre itineraries, our knowledge and experience means we can create your holiday, your way.
Give us a call or contact us for a quote.
