South Africa, the Rainbow Nation, has much to offer by way of adventure, culture and relaxation for a winter getaway. Typical of the Southern Hemisphere, the hot and sunny climes from mid October to mid September are ideal for your dose of winter sun. The increase in 5* hotels, B&Bs, air links and good quality roads make this the perfect touring country.
When visiting South Africa you should expect to experience diversity, not just in the culture but also in the terrain, from the subtropical coast of northern KwaZulu-Natal to one of Africa’s premier safari destinations, Kruger National Park, in the northeast.
What to do & where to go
As a luxury tourist destination, South Africa excels at pampering its guests. Head to the magnificent hideaway in the Cederberg mountains, north of Cape Town, where Bushmans Kloof Lodge can be found – a spa lounge that has won many awards and accolades. Choose traditional treatments to relax, unwind and bring your year to an end in pure bliss.
A trip to South Africa wouldn’t be complete without a safari in one of the country’s many national parks. Top off this fantastic experience at Camp Jabulani – a luxury camp situated in Mpumalanga province (near Kruger National Park). Jabulani has a dozen elephants that will take you to watch the sunset in the bush or a night safari. Finally head to Boulders Beach, a small beach on the Cape Peninsula – home to a quirky holiday activity, but one which is a real thrill! Join the famous penguins on the beach or take a dip in the sea where they will swim alongside you!
What to wear & how to prepare
Given the country’s mostly temperate climes, light and comfortable clothing is a suitcase essential. A light jacket over a floating maxi dress and closed toe pumps is an edgy but practical look for your holiday.
If you’re heading off to one of South Africa’s many luxury spas, be sure to pack your best bikini or swimming costume. Earthy reds and soft purple hues are a great colour scheme to match your surroundings. Of course if you’re heading for a beach holiday, pack plenty of sun cream, casual summer dresses and plenty of accessories to transform your look from day to night.
Eating & drinking
South Africa is a meat-eaters paradise but it’s well worth tasting some of the country’s delicious seafood including lobster, oysters and mussels caught right along the country’s own coastline. If you are a particularly keen foodie then head to Franschhoek, a town which has established itself as a culinary centre for the country. Eight out of ten of the country’s most famous restaurants are located in close proximity of the town.
South Africa, is also a producer of new world wines and is best known for its cabernet sauvignon, merlot, chardonnay and sauvignon blanc. South Africa’s vineyards are clustered around the Cape of Good Hope, so why not book a trip to the country’s food capital and stay at the exclusive Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa and visit the regions celebrated vineyards.
Accommodation
South Africa boasts luxury boutique hotels, lodges and country retreats in beautiful settings as well as luxury game lodges in many of the country’s national parks and reserves. For a different experience, book an eco-lodge in the middle of a forest at Campi ya Kanzi – the first camp in Kenya to be gold rated by Ecotourism Kenya for its efforts in sustainable tourism. Or a hideaway retreat including a spa in South Africa’s stunning mountain ranges like the 5* Tenahead Mountain Lodge and Spa.
Photo Credit: Wikimedia/Htonl
