South Africa
Introduction
South Africa is filled with varied cultures, ancient space and extreme beauty. Roughly twice the size of Texas, the country's mixed heritage unites profoundly. Cities blend prehistoric pastoral and municipal customs with a vibrant, modern vibe. And it surely doesn't stop there: traditional arts and crafts, adventure sport, supreme luxury, outstanding national parks, beautiful architecture; brilliant cuisines, heart stopping wildlife and breathtaking scenery all bodes well for incredible touring and lifetime memories.
44 million people, 11 different languages…definitely something for everyone! Some are delighted to find that its excellent infrastructure compares well with Australia and the US. In fact, South Africa recently thrashed its annual tourism record for the third year running, with an 8.3% increase over '06. A total of 9.07-million foreigners visited in 2007. Since the end of apartheid in 1994, social transformation has been paramount and South Africa is alive with possibility. Warm-spirited people, breathtaking landscapes and natural wealth come together in a fresh, vibrant vibe. Experience a nation on the rise with a dramatic world vision.
Cape Town
Spectacular, sunny Cape Town! Below Table Mountain, at the foot of the African continent, CT is without doubt, a first class destination. It's recently been chosen as Africa's Best City, and one of the World's Top 8 Creative Cities. Well known for being one of the world's most beautiful cities, this complex melting pot flaunts the country's longest-established colonial heritage. The arts are irresistible and the natural gift of seafood, game and plants creates a palette of plenty. Cape Town boasts enormously triumphant film and fashion industries; in addition Cape wine, fishing and agricultural is famous the world over.
The "Mother City" is fabulous, and the region even better: historic towns, gabled Cape Dutch architecture, vineyards galore and the Garden Route's forested coast. In truth, the top five national attractions are right here. Don't miss the Table Mountain tram; Robben Island, the V&A Waterfront, the Cape Town Wine Routes and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, internationally acclaimed as one of the world's finest.
One always feels welcome in this modern, productive Mecca and Cape Town will certainly exceed your expectations.
The Garden Route
Renowned for natural beauty, this area lies between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth and is known well as South Africa's activity centre. Stunning nature reserves, pristine beaches, indigenous forests and of course related cultural delights: interesting locals, cookery, crafts and history. This coastal drive links the influential winelands with a string pleasant villages and townships for a thrilling tour of the radiant Indian Ocean and Southlands.
George
A most attractive town with a flawless Mediterranean climate, friendly people and excellent schools George is a prime holiday destination for natives and tourists alike. The commercial hub of the Garden Route, George has a sophisticated infrastructure, yet retains a gentle, authentic country atmosphere. Nestled between the regal Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, George calmly boasts world class sporting amenities, including superlative courses designed by golfing greats. Amongst these are Le Grande George, Oubaai and the inimitable Fancourt. This course hosted the 2003 President's Cup and other high-profile tournaments.
Plettenberg Bay
Beautiful white beaches, azure seas, endless skies, temperate rainforests nearby makes this a don't miss spot along the Garden Route. Discovered by Portugal in the 15th century, Plett is today popular with tourists and British expatriates who thrive in the year-round warm climate. The entire coast is well known for easy local shopping, wonderful whale watching, fine restaurants, seafood taverns and authentic history. Plett is inspiring and its beat mixes high brow culinary events with the buzz of international trends and the pulse of Africa. For the very exploratory or those who prefer relaxing in the sun, strolling through cool forests, Plettenberg Bay will intrigue. Plett is also home to the Birds of Eden Sanctuary, and the world's first free-roaming, multi species primate sanctuary.
Durban
South Africa's second most populous city, the largest city in KwaZulu-Natal, is a mystical, fashionable seaside playground. Sophisticated and cosmopolitan, Durban is a sublime paradise. The easy going Golden Mile is the beachfront and boasts warm Indian Ocean beauty. Continue on for a plethora of wonders and persuasive riches…colonial heritage, lush sub-tropical greenery, dancing warriors, spiritual fire-walkers and nearby, two smashing World Heritage Sites. Vast Game Reserves, epic battlefields, the majestic Berg and infinite beach are easily accessible.
Nearby townships are lively; choose luxury resorts along the Sugar Coast or the green country life of the Valley of 1000 Hills. This is also Africa's largest port. Business is booming here and the coastline reaches forever in both directions, dotted with resorts.
Durban is sports mad and hosts may international contests. Choose to tee off oceanside, or inland, surf to your heart's content, or premier head to the races. horseracing draw- cards...but should you not fancy their odds, there are always the slot- machines and gaming tables of our Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom!
Kruger National Park
The world-renowned Kruger is easily accessible, with historical and important archaeological sites like Masorini and Thulamela. This is real Africa! A peerless variety of life forms blend in South Africa's best known game reserve. In fact, the park is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals. The Kruger offers an especially up close and personal experience to suit: biking, driving, hiking, however you roll, Kruger offers a wildlife experience that ranks with Africa's best.
Established in 1898 to protect South African Lowveld wildlife, you're in the flagship of the South African national parks. With nearly 2 million hectares to explore, get off the beaten track!
