South Africa Safari and Beach Holidays: Discover the Wonders of South Africa
Start your adventure in Johannesburg - the City of Gold, as it is fondly called - a humming metropolis always alive with energy. Or head to cosmopolitan Cape Town, the oldest city in South Africa, which has one of the most beautiful natural settings of any city on Earth, with Table Mountain looming large over the city centre.
Experience a profound sense of stillness as you enter the untamed wilderness of Marakele National Park. An enchanting, unspoilt landscape teeming with wildlife, soaring cliffs, lush green hills and rocky ravines. Stay in a luxury lodge perched discreetly on the hillside with magnificent views across the stunning Waterfall Valley and watch as the animals emerge from their nocturnal slumber to get a real sense of the power of the bush.
After an action-packed day, toast to a dramatic sunset with a refreshing drink before heading back to the lodge for a candlelit supper under the star-studded African sky.
Once you’ve had your safari fix, it’s time to unpack your swimming costumes and unwind and recharge on the exotic Indian Ocean coast. There are plenty of options for your beach retreat, whether you opt to head to the sandy shores of Mozambique or Zanzibar, hop across the water to Madagascar or fly further afield to the Seychelles or Mauritius. Wherever you choose, you’ll be able sink your toes into the powder-soft white sand along the shoreline, sip on a cocktail on a private beach and breathe in that fresh sea air.
If you want to extend the wildlife experiences, head to Madagascar. Take a boat trip out to Nosy Iranja, otherwise known as Turtle Island, moulded out of two islets connected by a slim mile-long stretch of sand surrounded by sparkling turquoise water. This peaceful place is home to green and hawksbill female turtles who lay their eggs here and, with a bit of luck, you can even witness the tiny hatchlings scurrying across the sand.
If going on a thrilling underwater adventure is more your thing, head to the Tanzanian coast or the Seychelles for some world class diving – the perfect way to finish off the ultimate South Africa safari and beach holiday.