Mind-blowing scenery, cultural diversity and exciting South African wildlife

Africa’s southern-most country has long been a fascinating destination for travellers. Breathtaking scenery is layered with wide cultural and ethnic diversity - there are 11 national languages. The landscape features glorious golden beaches, vast lowlands, verdant valleys, arid desert, and spectacular mountains – including the unmistakable Table Mountain overlooking Cape Town. The country offers some of the best game viewing in the world. In areas such as Kruger National Park, Africa’s Big 5 – buffalo, elephant, leopard, lion and rhinoceros – roam alongside cheetahs, giraffes, hippos and other smaller animals. South Africa’s cities are as varied as its landscape and wildlife. Cape Town is the beating heart of the country with its stunning location, beautiful beaches and vibrant atmosphere. Durban is a modern beach resort known for its multitude of hotels, water sports and Indian influence. Johannesburg is a gritty, fascinating city, and home to the infamous Soweto Township.

Why Go?
South Africa is a spectacular destination. A visit to a game reserve to see the ‘Big Five’ is an unparalleled experience. The country’s scenery is some of the world’s most beautiful, the climate is heavenly, and the beaches and water sports make for an enjoyable trip.

When to Go?
South Africa has seasonal weather. From November to March the weather is very hot but temperatures are cooled by frequent heavy rains. Christmas is peak time for South African holidaymakers and flights and accommodation are very busy. From May to August temperatures drop and can be slightly chilly. The best times to visit South Africa are spring and autumn when the weather is warm but there are fewer tourists. The heaviest rains fall from May to August.

How to get there
There are direct flights from London Heathrow to Cape Town International (CPT) and to Johannesburg (Tambo) Airport (JNB) . Flights take around 11-12 hours. Indirect flights are also available from across the UK, with many stopping via Dubai or Amsterdam. Other main airports in South Africa include Durban International and Port Elizabeth International. Flights from the UK to South Africa are most expensive from mid-December to mid-January.

Must see
Climb Table Mountain or take the cable car to see the enchanting views of Cape Town and the Cape Peninsular from the summit. Visit Kruger National Park and see the Big 5, a thrilling experience that will stay with you forever. Scuba dive off the Durban coast or hike the Royal Natal National Park in Drakensberg. Take a tipple of South Africa’s excellent wines in Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands.