The energy is infectious upon arrival in the glorious ‘Mother City’ of Cape Town, with the iconic setting of Table Mountain framing the city’s numerous landmarks. The country’s recent history is palpable, never more so than when you visit townships (such as Langa) and the moving District Six Memorial Museum that recollects the displacement of thousands of people from their homes by the apartheid nationalist government in the 1960s. It will change the way you see the world. 

Outside of the cities, take a picturesque drive along the Western Cape’s iconic Garden Route with golden beaches on one side and verdant forests fringing dramatic mountains on the other. Don’t miss a trip through the scenic Winelands to the towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, where the historic streets are lined with art galleries, cafes and restaurants boasting an internationally renowned food scene. For a sedate excursion, take a steam train through the Cape linking with Mpumalanga and Victoria Falls. Further north, climb the awe-inspiring Drakensberg Mountains or for the adventurous, canoe down the Orange River and picnic in magical forests. There is also excellent horse riding across South Africa – from beaches to private ranches in KwaZulu Natal – and horse riding safaris.

Throughout the country, we’ll be able to offer a full range of accommodation options whether you’re looking for classic camping safaris, chic apartments in Cape Town or Dutch colonial chic escapes in the Western Cape Province. Talk to Explorations about the best time of year to visit, as that will entirely depend on what you’d like to cover during your stay. However you decide to spend your time, the Rainbow Nation will welcome you with open arms.