Provinces

Tourism by Province

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Named after the great Limpopo River that flows along its northern border, this province is rich in wildlife, spectacular scenery and a wealth of historical and cultural treasures.

Known as the Great North, Limpopo is home to ancient lands and pre-historic secrets. This is home to Modjadji, the fabled Rain Queen; The Stone Age and Iron age relics of Makapansgat Valley and the treasures of Mapungubwe that date back to time immemorial.

Straddling the northern Kruger, Limpopo boasts wildlife safaris, nature trails – and untamed Africa at its finest. This is the land of wide-open bushveld, big-sky country, the ever-present thorn tree and the mystical baobab.

Limpopo also offers up Africa’s wild Edens – from highveld grassland savannahs to subtropical forests to formidable mountain ranges…and then some.

Major attractions

• Makapansgat Valley
This valley is directly linked to the history of the Cradle of Humankind, this is where, in February 1925, Professor Raymond Dart announced the discovery of the first ape-man. The caves at Makapansgat Valley have rendered fossils dating back 3,3 million years. Stone Age and Iron Age relics have also been located here. This area is destined to become a World Heritage Site.

• Mapungubwe
One of the most remarkable icons in Limpopo, Mapungubwe is situated at the confluence of the Sashi and Limpopo Rivers.

The great ruins at Mapungubwe, in the Limpopo River Valley, show remains of the first and greatest ever South African kingdom to have flourished. Mapungubwe shows remains of human occupation in and around 850 AD (two and a half centuries before Great Zimbabwe). The most significant find at Mapungubwe was a gold rhinoceros and gold bowl dating back to around 1200AD. The artefacts at Mapungubwe illustrate a flourishing trade and advanced social systems of African kingdoms in the 13th century.

• Modjadji Cycad Nature Reserve
In the Lobedu Mountains near Duiwelskloof and situated next to the home of the fabled Modjadji rain queen, lies the Modjadji Cycad Reserve – boasting some of the oldest and largest cycad specimens on earth.

• The Kruger National Park
Spot the big five from your luxury safari vehicle, or go tracking on foot in the most famous game park in the world. The northern Kruger offers excellent game-viewing and world-class accommodation. A number of community lodges are also springing up, adding to the authentic African experience.

• The Ivory Route
There are 54 provincial reserves, 10 of which are being developed into a series of camps that follow in the footsteps of historical characters.
Dubbed the African Ivory Route, these reserves form an arc that follows the peripheral borders of the province along Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique, and includes the northern part of the Kruger National Park.

• Bela-Bela
Known as Warmbaths for a few decades, because of the hot mineral spring at its centre. This part of the world offers cheap accommodation and fun for the whole family. Bela-Bela is a gateway to the southern Waterberg and/or Thabazimbi.

• Lapalala Wilderness
This 25 000 hectare wilderness in the Waterberg contains rare roan and sable antelope, white and black rhino and a plethora of animals and birds. Lapalala is a sanctuary for endangered animals.

• Haernertsburg
Known as the Land of the Silver Mist, this gorgeous village in the misty Magoebaskloof mountains near the town of Tzaneen is famous for its cherries, azaleas and abundant flora and birdlife. The perfect spot for the ultimate weekend getaway.

• Nylsvlei
Nylsvlei is a 160km nature reserve enclosing one of the most important, and beautiful, wetlands in South Africa. Offering 150 species of bird including some of the rarest species on the planet. A wonderful campsite offers the basic amenities and the walking trails and picnic sites are a treat.

• Hiking in Letaba
Due to its spectacular scenery and deep forests, hiking in the Letaba region is popular with visitors. The two-day Debegeni and three-day Dokolewa trails are a must. Day-walks are also on offer.

• Horse-back Safaris
The Waterberg is recognised as one of the best places to take part in horse-back safaris. There are a number of well-established outfits that will cater to all your needs. A combination of a tented safari camp combined with a horse-trail safari is certainly an option for regular riders.

• Rhino Museum
The Lapalala Wilderness Area is a sanctuary for wild and endangered animals and birds. The world’s only dedicated Rhino Museum can be found here – and is dedicated to the achievements with these animals by founder, Clive Walker.

• Top-class Lodges
Limpopo province offers top-class accommodation, across the board. From colonial-type hotels to tented camps to five star safari lodges, the hospitality industry standards are absolutely world-class.

• Art and Crafts
The Gazankulu and Venda regions are known for their fantastic arts and crafts. Clay pots, basketwork, painting, tapestries and fabrics are all up for grabs at pretty reasonable prices

North West

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Away from the routine hustle and bustle of life, North-West is an escape route to the real Africa. Nature has blessed this province with breathtaking scenic beauty, rolling fields of maize, golden sunflowers and vast plains of African bushveld. The long hours of daylight in the sun-kissed North West Province provides the ideal backdrop for enjoyment of the province’s outdoor attractions – superb game parks – home of the Big Five – magnificent golf courses, watersport and sporting facilities.

Two important game reserves, the Pilanesburg National Park and Madikwe Game Reserve, are located in the province, the former adjacent to Sun City, a spectacular recreational, entertainment and gambling resort.

Madikwe, a malaria-free reserve covering a vast area of 75 000 hectares, boasts the Big Five and the second largest population of elephants in South Africa. Visitors can discover ancient cultures and villages that link this tranquil province with its exciting past. The North West Province is a blend of 20^th century living, wrapped up in the mystique of ancient Africa.

Gauteng

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Getting to know Gauteng

Johannesburg
Johannesburg, also nicknamed Egoli (place of gold), is the capital of the province. Here, mine dumps stand firmly as symbols of its rich past, while modern architecture rubs shoulders with examples of 19th century engineering prowess. Gleaming skyscrapers contrast with Indian bazaars and African 'muti' (medicine) shops, where traditional healers dispense advice and traditional medicine.
An exciting blend of ethnic and Western art and cultural activities is reflected in theatres and open-air arenas, throughout the city.

Soweto
South of Johannesburg is Soweto, a city developed as a township for black people under the apartheid system. Most of the struggle against apartheid was fought in and from Soweto. The name Soweto is an acronym, made up - in apartheid days - from the first letters of the words “south western township”.
Soweto is estimated to be inhabited by over two million people, with homes ranging from extravagant mansions to makeshift shacks. Soweto is a city of enterprise and cultural interaction. It is a popular tourist destination with sites such as Kliptown (where the Freedom Charter was drawn up), the home of former President Nelson Mandela, the Hector Petersen Memorial site, restaurants and shopping malls. It boasts one of the largest hospitals on the continent and the only African-owned private clinic.

Pretoria/Tshwane
Some 50 km north of Johannesburg lies Pretoria, which resides within the City of Tshwane Metropolitan Municipality - a cluster of metropolitan municipalities and councils that amalgamated in December 2002. As administrative capital of the Republic, Pretoria is dominated by government services and the diplomatic corps of foreign representatives in South Africa.
Pretoria is renowned for its colourful gardens, shrubs and trees, particularly beautiful in spring when the 50 000 jacarandas envelop the avenues in mauve. The city developed at a more sedate pace than Johannesburg, and the town planners had the foresight to include an abundance of open spaces. Pretoria has more than 100 parks, including bird sanctuaries and nature reserves.
An air of history pervades much of central Pretoria, especially Church Square, around which the city has grown. Church Square is regarded by many as the cradle of the city and it is often the point of departure for historical sightseeing tours. Many buildings of historical and architectural importance have been retained or restored to their former splendour.

Gauteng Tourism Mecca
• Dining
Gauteng’s restaurants offer everything from the most mundane franchised burger, to elaborate and exotic themes reserved for the well heeled. From Africa, local traditions are up against the best from our neighbours in Mozambique and even as far a field as Morocco. Asia is represented in a choice of Chinese, Indian, Japanese, Thai and even Vietnamese restaurants. The traditions of Europe and the Middle East have also filtered through in innumerable gastronomic offerings.
• Music
Gauteng is a melting pot of music and entertainment. It is a place where cultures converge and continents collide. Jazz bars and live music hangouts offer some of the best local music on the continent.
• Shopping
Gauteng offers some of the best shopping this side of the equator. From world-class sprawling malls, to outdoor flea markets, country stalls and even muti markets – this part of the world is a shopping Mecca for every taste.
• Heritage
The many monuments, such as the Hector Petersen Memorial (Soweto) and the Women's Memorial (Pretoria), are some of the historic testimonies to the bravery of our heroes. The Sharpeville Memorial - a reminder of where protestors were killed, the Hector Petersen Memorial - a tribute to the youth of Soweto who died in the 1976 uprising, and many others stand as testament to the sons and daughters of Gauteng.
• Sport and Events
Gauteng is the indisputable sporting epicentre of South Africa. The province was host to the South African Formula One Grand Prix in 1993, Rugby World Cup Final in 1995, and the All Africa Games in 1998. We also hosted this year’s Cricket World Cup 2003 – with superb feedback from around the globe.

Major Tourism highlights
• The Apartheid Museum
Dedicated to South Africa’s darkest days – this incredible world-class museum documents the forced removals, political executions, the rise of Black Consciousness and the 1976 Soweto student uprisings and its triumphs.

• Newtown
Newtown Cultural Precinct is where some of Johannesburg’s hot and happening cultural scene can be found. At the heart of Newtown sits the famous Museum Africa as well as the Market Theatre complex. Newtown is part of the inner city regeneration project and promises to be Joburg’s most popular tourist hotspot.

• The Cradle of Humankind
Take a tour to the Cradle of Humankind, at Sterkfontein, Gauteng’s famous World Heritage Site – where caves have produced nearly half of the world’s hominid fossil discoveries. Close to the Cradle is the Kromdraai Wonder Cave, as well as the Rhino and Lion Nature Reserve.

• Township Tours
Experience Township Life up close and personal, in Soweto. Visiting the Regina Mundi Church, Sharpeville Memorial Site, Nelson Mandela’s home – and/or stay for the night at any of Soweto’s famous Bed and Breakfasts. There are also township tours offered in Alexandra as well as the keen hospitality offered by township dwellers around Tshwane.

• Out in the Country
The Magaliesberg area offers a wonderful arts-and-crafts route including fabulous foodie options, country getaways and wildlife. The Crocodile Ramble and the Magalies Meander are two well-known tourists routes in the area.

• Witwatersrand National Botanical Gardens
A well-maintained nature reserve with over 600 species of flowering plants, 210 species of birds, as well as a number of reptiles and small mammals.

• Days of Gold
Spend a day at the famous Gold Reef City, where you can go underground on a mine exploration and relive the old gold rush days of Johannesburg.

• Lesedi Cultural Village
A wonderful cultural experience, this “village” represents the Ndebele, Zulu, Pedi, Xhosa and Basotho Cultures. Visit the authentic kraals (tribal hut villages) and view the colourful costumes and song and dance of Africa’s most colourful people. A traditional African feast is also on offer in the evenings.

• Museum Heartland
Pretoria offers a number of fantastic museums, grouped together as Museum Park. Why not visit the Natural Cultural History Museum of Science and Technology, the Transvaal Museum and the GeoScience Museum, to mention just a few.

• Kruger House
President Paul Kruger lived in a house situated just three blocks from Church Square, from 1884 until 1900. The Victorian gabled house – which represents a simplified version of the neo-Gothic style - is a museum and displays his furniture, stagecoach, private railway coach and all of his personal effects. A few hundred metres to the west, is Pretoria’s Old Cemetery, Helde Akker (heroes’ acre) where President Kruger lies buried.

• Union Buildings
Designed by British Architect Sir Herbert Baker to accommodate the offices of the Prime Minister in 1913. The Union Buildings is set in terraced gardens modelled on the famous Villa d’Este at Tivoli near Rome, Italy, with magnificent views of the city. The gardens of the Union Buildings are home to another group of memorial structures. The Delville Wood memorial commemorates the South African soldiers who died in the Battle of Delville Wood in France (World War I). Today, the Union Buildings still houses the offices of the State President.

• Voortrekker Monument Heritage Site
Perched conspicuously on top of one of the many hills that surround the City of Pretoria, is the imposing Voortrekker Monument. This enormous granite construction commemorates the Voortrekkers (pioneers) who trekked from the Cape, between 1835 and 1854, in search of independence from British rule.

• Tswaing Meteorite Crater
Situated 40 km to the northwest of Pretoria, the Tswaing Meteorite Crater is known as the Pretoria Saltpan. One of the best-preserved meteorite craters in the world, this crater is home to a few stone artefacts of the Late Stone Age as well as an impressive wetland.

• A walk on the wild side
All around Gauteng, one has the opportunity to experience wildlife and nature at its most abundant. The much-loved Lanseria lion park is a must for children of all ages and Krugersdorp Game Reserve offers a safari-type adventure close to both Johannesburg and Pretoria.

Mpumalanga

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Mpumalanga is one of South Africa’s top tourist destinations. The tourism possibilities of this province are as diverse as the landscape itself. Of course, the major draw card to the area is the world-famous Kruger National Park.

Lowveld Magic

The Lowveld Legogote region is one of South Africa’s prime tourist destinations – this area is en route to the hunting grounds of the Kruger. It is home to the sophisticated town of Nelspruit with its shopping malls, restaurants and hotels and the vibrant smaller artistic communities of the Lowveld.

Highlights of this region include:

The Lowveld National Botanical Barden that boasts a myriad of indigenous plants from all over the country as well as a spectacular man-made tropical rain forest.
Smaller towns such as White River, Kaapschehoop and Hazyview are becoming a haven for potters, painters, writers, actors and sculptors who have converted this region into a warm-hearted artist’s community
The fascinating Crocriver Enviro Park – Africa’s largest reptile park.
Sudwala boasts the oldest cave in the world, including the famous `crystal tour’ into the bowels of the earth
The region is a gateway to the warm-hearted Swaziland cultures and the sultry sounds, sights and smells of Mozambique, not too far way.
The Lowveld Legogote offers fantastic accommodation – anything from five-star luxury lodges to basic overnight options that meet any budget.
The new Kruger Mpumalanga Airport will no doubt facilitate many more visitors into the region - a real plus for tourism.

Cultural Heartland

The Ndebele made this area famous with their colourful geometric artworks that are known around the world, from New York to Nigeria. It is in this region that locals and foreigners alike get to embrace the warm-hearted spirit of Africa through the Ndebele people and their indigenous wisdom and creativity.

Highlights:
Colourful Ndebele arts and culture, crafts and curios. Why not meet a local artist or two?
Visit the wonderful villages of Matibidi, Kwaggafontein, Waterval and Twoline – here community tourism is on the rise, allowing visitors to enjoy authentic South African rural life.
Stop by the village of Botshabelo, where the bible was translated for the first time from English into Ndebele.
Why not pop into the well-known Loopspruit Winery for a quick wine tasting?
Cilabi Ostrich farm near Marble Arch, offers a rather different experience for wildlife enthusiasts.

Panorama Paradise

The magnificent area known for its cultural heritage, dramatic landscapes and soul-soothing scenery is referred to as the Panorama Region. Offering a plethora of options for the visitor – the area hosts some of the best adrenalin-enhancing adventures in the country alongside more placid, peaceful pastimes.

A combination of bird-watching, game-viewing, trout-fishing, white-water rafting, bungee jumping, paragliding, mountain-biking and hot-air ballooning are all on offer.

A few highlights of the region include:
The Blyde River Canyon Nature Sanctuary – home to spectacular animal and plant-life and some of the best views in the country.
The Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon of its kind in the world.
The exquisite waterfalls in Graskop and Sabie.
The Echo Caves that speak of Africa’s powerful tribes such as the Pedi, Mapulane and the Swazi.
Trails left behind by the Voortrekkers in regions such as Lydenberg and Orighstad.
Ancient artistic footprints left behind by indigenous peoples of Africa, many moons ago.
Gold Rush territory – Pilgrim’s rest, home to the early gold prospectors.

Highlands Meander

The fly-fishing community of South Africa have fallen in love with Mpumalanga, as have many of our international visitors. The Highlands Meander region is renowned for its pristine waters and trout fishing opportunities. However, the region is also known as an adventure tourism hotspot.

Major highlights of the region include:

Trout fishing, trout fishing and more trout fishing… (as well as excellent accommodation options nearby).
A vibrant arts and crafts community.
Activities: bird-watching, mountain biking, rock climbing, horse riding and spectacular hiking trails.
Historical sites including the military cemetery in Dullstroom (Anglo-Boer War from 1899 to 1902) and a number of battlefield sights.
The Verloren Vallei Nature Reserve offers sightings of three rare crane species.
Adrenalin Rush – Abseilers and rock-climbers go on pilgrimage to Waterval Boven, as well as other areas in Mpumalanga that offer some of the best rock-climbing opportunities in the country.

Grass and wetlands

Mpumalanga is home to excellent birding and a multitude of lakes, forests and generous grasslands. The Grass and Wetlands region, however, is not merely an eco-tourism paradise – it also boasts a rich history and mysterious unexplained African cultures.

Regional highlights:

The lost Legoya nation’s huts, still standing after a millennium.

Europe in Africa – cool nights, misty mornings and soothing green landscapes.

Bushman paintings and historic battlefields that have defined South Africa’s rich history.

Birding excursions, hiking trails, horse-riding activities and `frogging expeditions’…

Stargazing weekends.

Wild frontier

This region of Mpumalanga offers a combination of experiences: history, geology, beauty and wildlife…. And then some. Known as the gateway to Mozambique, Swaziland and The Kruger National Park – this area is also the entry point to unexpected adventures along the road.

Highlights of the Wild Frontier region:

Barberton – a fascinating reminder of the old gold rush days.

Embuzi, home to the Samora Machel monument, and spiritual home to many of our neighbours from Mozambique.

Bulembu Pass – a scenic wonderland.

Komatipoort – major Southern African crossroad in the region, linking Africa’s diverse people.

Visit three countries in just one day: Swaziland, Mozambique and South Africa.

Health and well-being haven at Badplaas where hydro spas and hot springs are dime a dozen.

The area also boasts San paintings and archaeological ruins.

Cosmos Country

Known as the `energy belt’ of Mpumalanga, Cosmos country houses a number of power stations that supply energy to most southern African countries. Lively economic and agricultural activity takes place in towns such as Standerton, Leandra and Balfour. However, it is the open grasslands of this part of the world that truly define the area. During late summer, the open grasslands in this region are transformed into a carpet of pink and white cosmos flowers – hence the name Cosmos country. A themed casino can also be found in the area, offering luxury accommodation, a chance at lady luck and a mix of excellent restaurants.

Major Tourism attractions in Mpumalanga

The Kruger National Park

One of the major tourism magnets for the country, the Kruger National Park is among South Africa’s finest assets. Well-equipped to offer big five safaris including a variety of places to stay – ranging from some of the best private game lodges in the world to reasonably-priced rest camps. This famous park boasts over 140 species of mammals and over 500 species of birds, not to mention a wide variety of amphibians, reptiles, flora and fauna. A wildlife wonderland, this enormous sanctuary is a must for any and every visitor to South Africa.

Best Game Lodges in the World

A number of private camps and lodges are on offer in the areas surrounding the Kruger National Park. The Sabi Sands is renowned for being home to some of the best African game lodges in the world, bar none.

These lodges are known worldwide for their exclusivity and top-of-the-range accommodation. Here, private safaris are simply par for the course, conducted by qualified rangers in open-air landrovers. These lodges are all about attention-to-detail, personal service and a true Out of Africa experience in unique comfort.

Big Catch Country

The perfect getaway for fly-fishing enthusiasts, Dullstroom and surrounds offer fantastic accommodation including anything from five-star hotels to modest bed-and-breakfasts. The spectacular beauty of the area and its many lakes makes Dullstroom the perfect weekend getaway spot. A number of quaint restaurants and pubs are also on offer.

Gold-diggers delight

Return to the gold rush days of South Africa. The little town of Pilgrim’s Rest offers a step backwards into South Africa’s history, complete with themed museums, and restored buildings… and the notorious Victorian-inspired Royal Hotel. The area is a favourite for overseas and local visitors and is well-equipped to handle all of the attention with its offering of restaurants, bars and reasonably priced accommodation available.

Northern Cape

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The Northern Cape province lies to the south of its most important asset, the mighty Orange River, which provides the basis for a healthy agriculture industry. The landscape is characterised by vast arid plains with outcroppings of haphazard rock piles. The cold Atlantic Ocean forms the western boundary.

This region covers the largest area of all the provinces and has the smallest population. The major airports are situated at Kimberley, the capital, and Upington. The Northern Cape is serviced by an excellent road network, which makes its interior easily accessible from South Africa's major cities, harbours and airports.

Important towns are Upington, centre of the karakul sheep and dried fruit industries, and the most northerly wine-making region in South Africa; Springbok in the heart of the Namaqualand spring-flower country; Kuruman founded by the missionary Moffat; De Aar, hub of the South African railway network; Sutherland, the coldest town in the country; and the sheep-farming towns of Carnarvon, Colesberg, Kenhardt and Prieska.

Apart from a narrow strip of winter-rainfall area along the coast, the Northern Cape is a semi-arid region with little rainfall in summer. The weather conditions are extreme cold and frosty in winter, and extremely high temperatures in summer.

The largest part of the province falls within the Nama-Karoo biome with a vegetation of low shrubland and grass, and trees limited to water courses. The area is known world-wide for its spectacular display of spring flowers which, for a short period every year, attracts thousands of tourists.

This biome is home to many wonderful plant species, such as the elephant's foot (halfmens), tree aloe (kokerboom) and a variety of succulents.

The province has several national parks and conservation areas. The Kalahari Gemsbok National Park, together with the Gemsbok National Park in Botswana, is Africa's first transfrontier game park, known as the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. It is one of the largest nature conservation areas in southern Africa, and one of the largest remaining protected natural ecosystems in the world.

The Park provides unfenced access to a variety of game between South Africa, and Botswana and has a surface area of more than two million hectare (ha).

Nowhere is the Orange River more impressive than at the Augrabies Falls, which ranks among the world's greatest cataracts on a major river. The Augrabies Falls National Park was established to preserve this natural wonder.

Free State

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The Free State lies at the heart of South Africa – and the hearts of visitors will be won over by the majesty of the scenery and the friendliness of the people. Hospitality is one of this province’s prize assets and a Free State farm holiday offers a unique opportunity to get to know the”locals”.

Major tourist attractions

The Free State has much to offer the tourist in search of insight and adventure. As a result, various routes have been suitably packaged to meet the needs of the on-the-road traveller.

• The Maluti Route
This route follows the scenic Highlands of the Free State and over the border (passport essential) into the magnificent Maluti Mountains of Lesotho and ends at the RAMSAR-accredited Seekoelvlei Nature Reserve, at Memel.

• The Goldfields Route
Follow the fascinating history of the many gold mines of the Lejweleputswa area.

• BBT Heritage Route
Bloemfontein, Botshabelo and Thaba Nchu are in close geographical relationship to each other and, yet, have an extreme diverse cultural and political heritage. This route offers the true indigenous heartland of the province.

• Diamond & Wine Route
Follow the route of the diamond prospectors of the past and present. A man-made diamond hole at Jagersfonteing of 760m beats the better known Big Hole of Kimberley for size. Also visit the wine cellars of Landzicht and Wilreza in the scenic Jacobsdal area.

• N6 Route
Take the N6 highway to either exit or enter the Free State from the south. This route goes through quaint Xhariep and Eastern Cape towns and on to East London, the Wild Coast and Garden Route.

Major attractions
• The Golden Gate Highlands National Park
An area of highveld and montane grassland, covering 12 000 hectares is well-stocked with eland, red hartebeest, black wildebeest, blesbok and zebra. This is one of the few places in the country where one stands a good chance of seeing the Lammergeier or Bearded Vulture.

• Clarens and the Mountains of Gold
The beautiful town of Clarens lies just west of the Maluti mountain range and is the perfect country retreat. Known as the `jewel of the Free State’, Clarens is very popular with the artistic community.

Clarens is near to Golden Gate – where the famous ochre and gold sandstone outcrops offer up some of the most spectacular scenery in the country.

• Fossil Hunting
The Free State has rich deposits of fossils, and visitors to Clarens area can go on fossil-hunting expeditions. You may be lucky to find dinosaur bones, dinosaur eggs or dinosaur teeth; you’ll almost certainly find the fossils of smaller creatures dating back to well over 200 millions years.

• Rock Art
Throughout the Maluti mountains, one can find caves and cracks where the San people took shelter in a not-quite-so-distant past. Countless examples of historic rock-art are to be seen at Spitskop (Brandfort district), Sterkstroom (between Rouxville and Aliwal North), Stowlands (near Christiana), Tandjesberg (close to Clarens and Golden Gate), Sterkstroom (between Rouxville and Aliwal North) and at Stowlands (near Christiana).

• Steam Train Route
Steam train enthusiasts can take a trip down memory lane, along the historic Bethlehem-Bloemfontein Railroad to destinations such as Maseru and Ladybrand. Excursions are relatively short, allowing passengers to enjoy the scenery and facilities along the route.

• The Battlefield Route
The province contains many historic sites related to the Anglo-Boer War, including 13 battlefield sites, 8 military monuments, 2 war museums and 3 war and concentration camp cemeteries.

• Watersports
The Free State has three major watersports venues: the Vaal River (northern Free State); Gariep Dam (the largest dam in the country) and Sterkfontein Dam (near Harrismith). Activities such as fishing, camping, and watersports can be arranged on request.

Kwazulu Natal

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Blessed with a diversity of natural resources and a sunny year-round climate, KwaZulu-Natal offers the traveller a wealth of exciting opportunities. Durban is a vibrant city and a great base for setting off to discover everything this province has to offer. Here you can savour the influences of India and the richness of traditional Zulu culture, while all the attractions of a modern city are close at hand. The long coastline north and south of Durban boasts beautiful beaches and numerous family resorts, with plenty of activities to enjoy including golf.

KwaZulu-Natal’s game parks are internationally renowned, protecting marine life as well as mammals, reptiles and birds. The Drakensburg Mountains are scenically breathtaking while the Midlands is a region of rolling hills, evergreen forests and enchanting communities.

There are plenty of opportunities for experiencing the Zulu way of life while for those with an interest in Military history there are numerous Anglo-Boer, Anglo-Zulu and Zulu-Boer battle sites to visit.

Major tourist attractions
Beaches
Some of South Africa’s best beaches can be found along the Natal coastline, namely Umhlanga Rocks, Ballito, Shaka’s Rock, Shelley Beach (on the North Coast), Uvongo and Margate (on the South coast) – to mention just a few. These beaches offer safe swimming and fantastic surfing possibilities.

Durban also boasts spectacular beaches including Addington Beach, South and North beaches and Dairy beach and its the home of major International surfing & beach sport competitions.

Durban’s Grey Street
Grey Street is home to Durban’s Indian district and is the best place to enjoy spicy local food. Here, you will find the Juma Musjid Mosque and its gilt-domed minarets (1927) – the largest mosque in the southern hemisphere. Wander around the area and the bazaars and buy some of the incredible spices and textiles in the province from local Indian vendors.

The Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park
An eco-tourism wonderland of beautiful lakes, swamps, forests and marshlands surrounding the estuary of Lake St Lucia. This area was declared South Africa’s first World Heritage Sites – and is no doubt one of the most beautiful wetlands areas in the world and also the biggest in the Southern Hemisphere. Some of South Africa's best-protected indigenous coastal forests are found here at Dukuduku and Kosi Bay. Countless species of animals including hippo, crocodiles and elephant, as well as abundant plant and sea-life are found in this abundant sub-tropical eco-system.

Mountains and Dragons
The Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park was declared a World Heritage Site in 2000. This mountain wilderness, bordering Lesotho, is a vast national park boasting the highest mountain range in South Africa. Known to the Zulus as the `Barrier of Spears’, the Drakensberg or `Dragon Mountains’ mountain range is truly spectacular. Often referred to as Little Switzerland, this part of the world offers spectacular waterfalls, mountain peaks and rock faces adorned with ancient San rock art. It is a favourite spot for hiking and fly-fishing.

Zulu Heartland
KwaZulu-Natal is referred to as the Kingdom of the Zulus. To the west of the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game reserves (150km north of Ulundi), one can explore cultural museums that concentrate on local history. Near Ondini, find the reconstructed royal enclosure of Cetshwayo, the Zulu King. The fascinating Vukani Collection Museum is at Eshowe and boasts one of the best collections of Zulu art and culture in the world. Shakaland and Gingindlovu are also worth a visit

On Safari
Famous for its rhino conservation programme and big five sightings, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park is the largest of KZN’s reserves and boasts a fantastic cross section of wildlife. Mkuzi and Ndomo game reserves are also popular, and walking safaris in these reserves are spectacular.

Sodwana Bay
Some of the best diving and snorkelling opportunities in South Africa are on offer in Sodwana – a veritable mecca for those who love underwater adventure. The area is also famous for big-game fishing.

The Battlefields
A number of Battlefield tours are on offer in KZN where some of South Africa’s most turbulent wars took place. The interior, north of the Tugela River, marks the spot of major battles between Boers and Zulus, British and Zulus and, of course, the Boers and the British.

The Inanda Heritage Route
Visit the place where Mahatma Gandhi developed his philosophy of passive resistance and thereby changed the world order. Visit Ohlange, the school founded by the president of the ANC – John Dube – or visit the Inanda Seminary home to the largest Shembe church in the province (two million members).

Midlands Meander
The Midlands Meander is picture postcard country. The rolling green hills of the midlands are home to English-style country inns, guesthouses and quaint bed and breakfasts. The area is known for its polo clubs, delightful restaurants and a marvellous arts-and-crafts route.

Valley of a 1000 Hills
One of the most picturesque drives in the world is just 45km from Durban, known as the Valley of a Thousand Hills. It is in these hills where Zulu people still live in their traditional huts, the views are breathtaking – to be savoured slowly.

Zulu Crafts
KwaZulu-Natal boasts a wide range of markets, pots and craft shops and galleries where one can purchase the finest Zulu crafts. Traditional baskets, woven beer strainers, Zulu drums, shields and assegais, beadwork, pottery and Zulu regalia - all can be purchased at reasonable prices.

The Sardine Run
The South Coast sees the incredible annual migration of sardines, once a year. Shoals of sardines can be seen in their feeding frenzy as they move from the Natal South Coast to Mozambique. The sardine run is always followed by dolphins, sharks and game fish, and brave deep sea divers.

Hiking the Oribi Gorge
The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve is a wonderfully scenic area offering excellent hiking opportunities. The area boasts cliffs and forests and spectacular hiking trails and picnic sites. Wildlife in the Oribi Gorge consists of many antelope, although the oribi (after which the gorge is named) is rarely seen.

The Hibiscus Coast
The coastline from Port Shepstone to Port Edward has been called the Hibiscus Coast because of its lush gardens, luxury suburban homes, beach-side cottages and friendly caravan parks. The area is known for fantastic beaches as well as golfing opportunities. This is real bucket-and-spade country – with the towns of Margate and Uvongo being firm favourites.

The Dolphin Coast
The glorious Dolphin Coast stretches from Umhlanga Rocks, north of Durban, to the mouth of the Tugela River. The area boasts wide beaches and the warm ocean is the perfect playground for dolphins. The main holiday resorts consist of Ballito, Salt Rock and Umhlanga Rocks – all three offer five star hotels, however, self-catering accommodation is a firm favourite amongst local holidaymakers.

Western Cape

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Flanked by the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, this province boasts almost 1, 000 kilometres of unspoilt beaches, incredible scenic beauty, and year-round moderate weather.

The Western Cape is home to an exciting cultural community, ranging from the descendants of the indigenous Khoikhoi, proud Xhosa, settlers from Europe and people who came from the East.

The tapestry of cultural diversity is evident in the variety of cuisine, architecturee, arts and crafts, museums and historical landmarks. In particular, the Cape Coloured mixed race community have a special magic of their own, demonstrated to visitors in their particular brand of musical entertainment.

The fourth largest province in South Africa is blessed with an unparalleled botanical splendour and is fondly referred to as the Fairest Cape.

Major Tourism highlights

Cape Town Metropolitan area

The area between Table Mountain and Hottentots Holland comprises the Cape Town Metropole and encompasses pulsating cosmopolitan city life, beach playgrounds, forests and exquisite nature parks.

• Table Mountain
Cape Town’s most famous landmark – a quick spin by revolving cable car to the 1 086m summit will give the visitor a grand view of one of the most beautiful cities in the world, and of course the equally famous South African `Alcatraz’ – Robben Island.

• The Famous V & A Waterfront
The most visited attraction in Cape Town is the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with its assortment of shopping, eating, entertainment and sightseeing facilities, all set within a working harbour.

• Robben Island
The V & A Waterfront is also the gateway to Robben Island, a former prison (now national monument) where a visit is an emotional journey echoing with the sorrows of stalwarts of ‘the struggle’ against apartheid. The island was `home’ to many of South Africa’s freedom fighters including Nelson Mandela.

• Cape Fortress
The oldest surviving building in South Africa, and well preserved too, is the Castle of Good Hope, the pentagonal fortress built by personnel of the Dutch East India Company back in the 1660s-70s. Today it houses the regional headquarters of the South African Defence Force in the Western Cape and a military museum.

• Africa’s Most Southerly Point
A stop at Cape Point gives the visitor the opportunity to boast of having been at the most south-westerly point of Africa, where the cold Benguela and the warm Agulhus currents (west and east respectively) meet. Some 26 shipwrecks have been recorded at Cape Point, some of them presenting good diving spots. A funicular takes visitors on scenic trips to an old lighthouse and the spot is a bird watcher’s paradise.

• Township Vibes
Township tours will remind the tourist how the will to survive can overcome any adversity. In Guguletu and Langa expect to be overwhelmed by hospitality, informal roadside traders, rowdy taverns serving local beer and toe-tapping jazz. Guided tours are recommended to get to most out of the experience.

• Most Fabulous Beaches in the World
There’s a beach to suit every mood in Cape Town:

Clifton for those who want to see and be seen
Sandy Bay for the nudists
Muizenberg with its colourful bathing boxes for a good swim in warm water
Kommetjie for watersports.
Fishhoek is a quaint seaside village
Hout Bay has a colourful fishing harbour and craft market
Kalk Bay attracts antique hunters
Boulder’s Beach at Simon’s Town is home to a colony of Jackass penguins.

• Shopping Frenzy
Cape Town has many markets and impressive shopping centres and malls. However one of the most talked about shopping venues is the impressive than the 400-outlet Canal Walk Century City. It also boasts a 20-theatre cinema complex. For adrenaline-pumping entertainment, there’s Ratanga Junction, a 30-attraction theme park with roller coasters, activities, or the glitzy Grand West Casino & Entertainment World.

• Great Gardens of the World
A day in Cape Town might end with a classical concert at sundown in one of the world’s great botanical gardens – Kirstenbosch, a repository for many rare fynbos species and a wealth of indigenous plants, trees and flowers.

• Nightlife
Cape Town city centre is known to many as the party capital of Africa, down just a few streets in the Mother City there are hundreds of bars, restaurants and clubs just waiting to be explored through to the wee hours of the morning. Cape Town is also known as a pink city, offering a warm welcome to the gay and lesbian community.

The West Coast

The West Coast offers some of the greatest of small town South Africa. This is a region that needs to be savoured, slowly, and therefore road trips along the West Coast are a firm favourite with locals and international visitors. Not only does the area offer some of the most beautiful scenery in the world – mountains, oceans and views that go on forever, this coast is also a haven for the finest South African hospitality. Welcome…..

The West Coast National Park (close to Langebaan) is where 50 000 migratory birds can be seen in the summer, and at Bird Island at Lamberts Bay, an unobtrusive viewing platform affords close-ups of a jam-packed breeding site.

The national park also contains 40% of the earth’s remaining strandveld fynbos, while the West Coast at large really blooms in the spring months of August – October, even the roadsides bursting forth with lilies, vygies and daisies.

Endemic Clanwilliam ceder and snowball protea can be sighted in the Cederberg Wilderness Area, which also claims unusual rock formations and well-known hiking trails.

The West Coast has two official wine routes, the Swartland Wine Route and the Olifants River Wine Region. West Coast seas also produce a bounty of quality seafood and line fish to accompany the fruit of the vine and some of the country’s finest restaurants can be found along this coastline.

The Winelands

Just a 45-minute drive from Cape Town and you’re in the mountains and valleys of the Winelands – all gracious gabled Cape Dutch homesteads, cask-lined cellars, oak-treed towns and ultra fine restaurants.

The towns of Stellenbosch, Franschoek and Paarl are delightful and beg to be explored and savoured….like a good wine, very slowly.

There’s quite of choice of routes to amble leisurely along, calling in at historical homes, partaking in the ceremony of wine-tasting and sampling traditional fare such as bobotie and waterblommetjie stew.

The Garden Route

This land of lakes, bays, mountains and forests languishes on the southern coast from Heidelberg to the Tsitsikamma Forest and Storms River. It’s a nook of the country that offers inspiration to writers and artists whose presence gives the Garden Route a trendy flavour. It is also a top priority of many a foreign visitor.

This coastal drive links a series of charming towns interspersed with natural wonder. Along the way, every kind of adventure activity is possible – scuba diving, abseiling, fishing and more.

The Tsitsikamma National Park perched on a tumultuous Indian Ocean shore is one of South Africa’s most dramatic protected areas, combining marine and land attractions. Its indigenous forests are a haven for birdlife. For hikers, a particularly challenging test is the five-day Otter Trail, a coastal walk that crosses a number of rivers.

Other major attractions:

The Bartolomeu Dias Museum complex at Mossel Bay.
Ride the Oteniqua Choo-Tjoe (a steam-hauled train) between George and Knysna.
Knysna for oysters and an authentic hippy community of artists and musicians.
Fancourt one of the best golfing spots on the coast.
Witsand in the winter – a ‘whale nursery’ where hundreds of these mammals mate and calve.
Plettenberg Bay – for sun, sea and sand.

The Klein Karoo
One of the most geologically interesting parts of South Africa is the Klein Karoo with its towering mountains and sheer gorges. A geological feature of note is the Cango Caves, a series of caverns and chambers naturally hewn out of limestone, outside of the city of Oudtshoorn. The caves fall in the top ten most visited South African attractions.

Oudtshoorn itself, the heart of the ostrich feather industry when it was at its zenith in the late 1800s/early 1900s, is worth a visit. The grandiose, old feather palaces are still to be seen, while ostrich farms, now involved in the commercial production of meat, leather, eggs and feathers, can be toured, with the possibility of riding an ostrich. The town also hosts an annual music and theatre fest – the Klein Karoo Kunstefees.

The Central Karoo
The semi-arid Karoo derives its name from an indigenous word meaning ‘thirstland,” but the starkness this implies is deceptive. Dig a little below the surface and you find fossil-rich terrain, fascinating rock art, ancient stone-age sites, one of the largest varieties of succulents on the planet and star-filled skies to thrill the astronomer, no matter how amateur.

Peaceful Prince Albert at the foot of the spectacular Swartberg Pass makes a convenient base from which to venture out and explore. It’s close to Gamkaskloof or Die Hel (The Hell), once home to an isolated farming community that for a century was accessible only by foot or horseback.

The Karoo National Park, as the largest ecosystem in South Africa, reveals how fauna and flora have adapted to their harsh environment.

The Breede River Valley
Some 15 attractive small towns have the good fortune to nestle in the fertile Breede River Valley, wall-to-wall in orchards and vineyards.

There’s Ceres, aptly named for the Roman goddess of fertility; Tulbagh with 32 historical buildings making for the largest concentration of national monuments in the country; Montagu, home of hot mineral springs famed for curative powers; Worcester and Robertson known for their noble vintages.

Attractions in the valley include one of the largest brandy distilleries in the world (KWV Brandy Cellar), game reserves, tribal art and museums (try Kleinplasie Living Open Air Museum which revives early settler days with demonstrations of candle making, sheep shearing and harvesting). Activities to sample include hiking, and mountain biking.

The Overberg
An hour east of Cape town `over the mountains’ is the Overberg with a coastline of holiday-friendly beaches, picturesque seaside towns, an ancient lighthouse that has witnessed many a shipwreck (at Cape Agulhus) and a whale route that draws more whales and more watchers each year. Between June and November crowds flock to Hermanus and its surrounds to watch the great mammals court and cavort.

In the interior, wheatfields are broken by Morovian mission towns such as Elim and Genadendal, agricultural museums (Grabouw and Swellendam) and a new casino, hotel and spa resort at Caledon. Ecotourists can plan an itinerary around the fynbos route that includes nature reserves and wild flower gardens.

Special Tourism Routes
With many attractions of interest to niche markets, the Western Cape has devised many tourist ‘routes’ to highlight these specialities. These include:

- The Winelands: There are no less than fourteen official routes in the area, including - Constantia Wine Route/Durbanville Wine Route/Helderberg Wine Route/Klein Karoo Wine Trust/Olifants River Wine Route/Overberg Wine Route/Red route (Paarl Vintners)/Robertson Wine Valley/Stellenbosh Wine Route/ Swartland Wine Route/Tulbagh Wine Trust/ Vignerons de Franschhoek/Wellington Wine Route/Worcester Winelands.
Most of the wine estates welcome visitors, so pop in and test your tastebuds on the local tipple.

- The Brandy Route: featuring 10 cellars.

- Cape Care Route: showcasing environmentally- and socially-conscious projects.

- The Hot Springs Route: taking in springs and spas and mineral baths.

- Mission Stations Route: featuring towns where the church remains the centre of the community and life appears to be frozen in time.

- Route 62: the road between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth with multi-faceted attractions including wine, brandy, museums, caves and more.

- Scenic Routes and Passes: offering some of the most beautiful views in the world (and highlighting the feats of engineering that broke through mountain passes).

- The Whale Route: the best spots for whale sightings in the world.

- The Wine Routes: there are over fourteen official wine routes to choose from.

Eastern Cape

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Port Elizabeth, known as the “Friendly City”, is the gateway to the Eastern Cape and a fun place for the family.

Getting to know the Eastern Cape

Major attractions to the area:
• Nelson Mandela Museum
The museum was officially opened on the 11 February 2000, at a function to coincide with the tenth anniversary of the release from prison of Nelson Mandela in 1990. The birthplace/museum is situated at Qunu, along the N2 highway, south of Umtata.

• Addo Elephant Park
Situated 73km from Port Elizabeth, in South Africa's Eastern Cape, the park is a true conservation success story.

• Valley of Desolation
The Valley of Desolation is one of the most spectacular sights in the country. The valley is the product of volcanic and erosive forces of nature over 100 million years. A steep and narrow road leads into the mountains that surround the valley – a journey not to be dared by the faint-hearted.

• Grahamstown National Arts Festival
Africa's largest and most colourful cultural event takes place, annually, in this University town, offering a choice of the very best of both indigenous and imported talents.

• Hole in the wall
Just south of Coffee Bay, on the eastern seaboard, is a prominent rock formation with a big hole in the centre. This distinctive site has become a symbol for the Xhosa in remembrance of a great historical tragedy - the "Great Cattle Killing".
The unique structure with a huge detached cliff that has a giant opening carved through its centre by the waves. The local Xhosa call this place "izi Khaleni", which means "place of thunder".

• Tsitsikamma National Park
The Tsitsikamma National Park, also known as "the place of much water", is where the great breakers of the Indian Ocean relentlessly pound rocky shores; where temperate high forest and fynbos (indigenous flora) roll down to the sea and where ancient rivers carve their paths to the ocean down rocky ravines.

• Highest Bungee Jump in the world
The world's highest bungee-jumping site is to be found at Blaauwkrans Bridge on the Storms River. A daring adrenaline-rushing dive from this bridge ensures a dazzling 180 meters of freefall at 193kmph, taking seven seconds - even the rebound is higher than the Victoria Falls.

• Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area
The Baviaanskloof (Valley of Baboons) is rapidly assuming national conservation and heritage prominence. The Baviaanskloof is a wilderness area situated on the eastern border of the Cape Floral Kingdom, some two and a half hour's drive from Port Elizabeth.

• The Owl House
Enter a magical world at the famous Owl House in Nieu-Bethesda. Just outside Graaf-Reinet, in the Eastern Cape, this is where Helen Martins spent the latter part of her life.
Regarded as an eccentric and deeply interested in Eastern philosophy, she lived a hermit-like existence, devoting her life to her beloved owl statues and "the search for light and brightness".

• Jeffreys Bay – Super Tubes
Experience the perfect wave in Jeffreys, the surfing capital of South Africa and a major international surfing venue that attracts visitors from all over the world to experience the “perfect wave”. Jeffreys Bay’s appeal began in the late 60s and continues with the hip-hop generation of today.

• Snow Skiing
Tiffindell is the only ski resort in Africa. Situated in the Southern Drakensberg on the slopes of the highest mountain peak in the Eastern Cape (3001m). The resort was started in 1994 with basic small accommodation, a rough road and few facilities and has since become a popular destination for those in search of an exciting snow adventure.

• Beaches
The Eastern Cape offers 800km of untouched and pristine coastline along with some of the world’s best beaches. Port Elizabeth, alone, has 40km of magnificent beaches and, with its perfect combination of warm water, calm sea and fair breezes, it is one of the best sailing venues in the world, and a magnet for all beach and water sports enthusiasts.

Port Elizabeth’s Southern Beaches offer safe and sheltered swimming, body surfing, sunbathing, boardsailing, excellent waves and surfing opportunities as well as interesting inter-tidal sea life, while the Northern Beaches offer vast stretches of sand and dunes, ideal for long beach walks and superb angling and swimming options.

The beaches include King’s Beach, Humewood Beach, Hobie Beach, Pollock Beach, Brighton Beach, Bluewater Bay, St George’s Strand and Wells Estate.

On the south side of the city, Schoenmakerskop – a picturesque seaside village – offers scenic picnic spots, coves, rock pools and holiday resorts with safe bathing and fishing in tidal pools.

A little further along is Sardinia Bay, a marine Reserve with miles of unspoilt coastline and crystal-clear water – excellent for diving, horse riding and scenic walks and hikes.

• Water Sports
The Swartkops River Estuary is a unique water sports playground - ideal for power boating, canoeing, sailing, windsurfing and angling.

• Game Viewing
The Eastern Cape boasts the most concentrated elephant reserve in Africa. Home to a herd of 300 elephants, the Addo Elephant National Park allows close-quarter viewing.

Whether at the exclusive Shamwari Game Reserve, the large Addo Elephant Park, or the Mountain Zebra National Park, the Eastern Cape offers unequalled game viewing in conditions suited to the traveller.

• The Wild, Wild Coast
Further north, along the Eastern Cape's east coast, we find the largely untamed and extravagantly beautiful Wild Coast - the ultimate holiday destination.

Fishing, more than anything else, draws holiday-makers to the Wild Coast. In summer, catches include huge reef fish such as musselcracker. In autumn, the annual sardine run brings fighting game fish. Totally unspoilt and uncommercialised, the Wild Coast offers a pleasant climate, mild seas and family resorts where fresh seafood features on most menus.

Whale spotting
Southern right whales and their calves are regularly spotted from the high dunes, usually between May and November, and common and bottlenose dolphins are often seen close to shore. Coffee Bay is easily accessible from the N2 highway and is popular among surfers, anglers and shell collectors. The lagoon offers safe bathing.

Off-The-Beaten Track
The Eastern Cape offers unlimited adventure possibilities in a virtually unspoilt part of the world. A number of routes can be taken off-the-beaten track. However, road infrastructure can be limited at times – so, ensure that you have the right vehicle, adequate directions and safety instructions to ensure the best possible experience.

Coastal Treasures
The main feature of the Eastern Cape is its never-ending Indian Ocean coastline. The area offers long stretches of undisturbed sandy beaches, rocky coves, secluded lagoons and towering cliffs

Heritage Tour