Some Background info
South Africa has been a colony for several centuries. First the Dutch controlled the country that was an important stop-over on the route to Indonesia (“Cape of Good Hope”). Later the British took over. Both occupiers left their marks in language, heritage sites and life style.
The country has a violent recent history when it was ruled by an “apartheid” regime since 1948, where people were treated differently based on their colour of skin. Fortunately this ended in 1994. People are now officially equal and the government really represents the population.
The end of apartheid (a Dutch word that I am not proud of) did not mean the end of all problems. There is still a lot of unemployment and poverty, especially under the black population, resulting in high crime. There is a lot of inequality when it comes to wealth.
Many languages are spoken by the many different people in the country (as reflected in the rainbow flag). English, Afrikaans (similar to Dutch) and Zulu are most widely spoken.
The country South-Africa has everything that you are looking for in an active vacation. Nature, beach, wildlife, lifestyle… With some precautions and extra care especially in the four large cities (Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban and Gqeberha), you should be able to really enjoy it.
I have been in South-Africa for work and pleasure.
Johannesburg
Johannesburg (also known as Jo-Burg) is the capital and largest city of South-Africa with approx. 6 million people. It is also a hub for air travel from anywhere in the world to somewhere else in Africa.
In Johannesburg you may find poverty and beggars on the same street as Ferraris and other luxury cars. The divide between rich and poor is extreme.
Soweto (“South-West-Township”) is a large suburb of Johannesburg and the former home of Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu, both peaceful freedom fighters. These homes can now be visited.
I don’t gamble whatsoever and do not want to promote any of it, but in Johannesburg the Montecasino is worth mentioning. People from all walks of life come to throw a few coins into a one-armed bandit slot-machine and try their luck. Just a handful of dollars can give you quite a bit of excitement. The casino also serves food.
Sun City is another location that can be reached in a day tour. This is more like a resort or mini Las Vegas with water fountains, shows and casino.
Not far from Johannesburg is the Panorama Route that covers Blyde River Canyon and the Drakensburg mountains. This is an amazing one or two day tour with lots of sight-seeing, beautiful nature and waterfalls. A tour can easily be combined with Kruger National Park, a major tourist destination and one of the best spots to safari and view the Big Five in all of Africa. Highly recommended by organised tour or self-drive.
Cape Town and West Cape
Cape Town (“Kaapstad”), the second largest city of South Africa, is one of the most beautiful cities in the world based on its unique location, the table-mountain, nature and beaches. The city borders both the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean.
Cape Town is a major tourist destination and should be included in any itinerary, if possible. It is easy to see why. Just enjoying a local South African wine or Braai (~ BBQ) somewhere in the city, is very memorable. There are many beaches where swimming is possible and safe.
The outdoors are of course more famous. This includes a trek or cable cabin ride to Table Mountain, where you can enjoy an amazing view of the city and the region. Another activity is a tour (organised or by rental car) to Cape of Good Hope, where you may also encounter lots of sea lions and penguins along the way.
One of the most incredible activities that can be “enjoyed” in Cape Town is diving with sharks. You will be protected in a strong, tested cage that takes you under water, where you could encounter and stare at the Great White Shark. Under water pictures and movies are guaranteed and super-exciting. Without the cage you could be lunch or dinner yourself.
The Southern Coast, Garden Route and Durban
The South Coast runs from Cape Town all the way to Durban with several highlights. Some of them are part of a special section called the Garden Route.
• Hermanus is a city known for whale watching between June and to December. You don’t need a boat or water excursion, but can spot the animals from the shore.
• Oudtshoorn is best known for the ostrich farms. You can take pictures of these very large, non-flying birds or by an ostrich-egg-lamp.
• Addo Elephant National Park is another great option to join an African Safari and see lions, zebras, giraffes and – of course – elephants.
• Gqeberha (formerly known as Elizabeth Port) is a major sea port and one of the top four cities in South Africa.
Durban is the 3rd largest city in South Africa. They have some really nice beaches for swimming and surfing. But be aware, it is not the safest place. I was walking around the city and noticed that around 4:30 PM shop owners were closing their stores with extra protection to prevent burglary. And suddenly around 5 PM it turned really quiet in the street… For me, an obvious tourist and easy target, also a sign to disappear and take a taxi to my hotel.
Wine Tasting and Luxury Travel
South Africa is a good location for luxury travel and enjoying the precious things of the good life.
The Blue Train travels between Pretoria/Johannesburg and Cape Town. You will be spoiled on a 2-night/3-day luxury train ride with food, drinks, butler service and activities included. It is one of the most luxurious train journeys in the world.
Wine is another way to enjoy life. South Africa has excellent wines, some of which can also be found in your super market at home. On location in the country itself, the wine just tastes better. The Cape Town region with Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Constantia, is famous. Here you can taste the best wines combined with fine dining, historic Cape Dutch estates and mountain views.
South Africa is a global diamond producer, for example in the Big Hole near Kimberley. Unlike some other countries in Africa, these diamonds are high-quality and ethically sourced (without anyone dying for them). Digging for diamonds may be impossible yourself, but buying them is an option, if you have the budget.
Travelling in extended Southern Africa Region
There is a lot more to see in this part of the world. Many travellers combine South Africa with destinations in the neighbouring countries for example Namibia, Botswana and Namibia. There are many organised tours and overland expeditions for all budgets available.
The Victoria Falls, the widest drop of water on the planet on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe, is a great destination and reachable by easy flight from Johannesburg.
Blogs de viajes similares (África)
Consulte los siguientes blogs para obtener más información: