Africa is often introduced through safari, but that’s only one part of a much wider experience. Across the continent, you’ll find coastlines, cities, mountains, and food scenes that feel completely different from one another. South Africa is a good example of this variety, where you can move from beaches to vineyards to historic sites within a relatively short distance. It’s a destination that works just as well for a multi-stop trip as it does for a single base with day trips.
Coastlines and beach towns with personality
Cape Town’s Camps Bay is known for its wide stretch of sand backed by the Twelve Apostles, with cafés and restaurants lining Victoria Road, while further along the Garden Route, Plettenberg Bay offers a quieter feel, with places like Robberg Beach for long walks and viewpoints along the Robberg Nature Reserve. For powdery white sands and turquoise waters, head to Diani Beach in Kenya or Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago. Meanwhile, Namibia’s Skeleton Coast provides a dramatic and unique experience, with its windswept dunes meeting the Atlantic Ocean.
Cities that balance scenery and everyday life
Cape Town is easy to explore at your own pace. The cable car up Table Mountain gives a clear view across the peninsula, while the V&A Waterfront is a convenient area for shops and casual dining by the harbour. In Johannesburg, the Apartheid Museum provides a moving insight into South Africa’s history, while the Maboneng Precinct is a lively area filled with art galleries, street markets, and cafés. In East Africa, Nairobi is a great city to spend a couple of days between safari visits with amazing local restaurants and the unmissable Maasai Market. Finally, Lagos is a dynamic city with a thriving arts and music scene. Visit the Lekki Conservation Centre for a peaceful escape, unwind at Tarkwa Bay Beach, or explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.
The Drakensberg Mountains and open landscapes
For an active holiday away from Africa's conservancies, the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal are ideal. This is a region focused on walking trails, wide views, and quiet surroundings. The Amphitheatre hike is one of the best-known routes, leading to Tugela Falls, and there are options for horse riding and guided walks to see San rock art. Accommodation here ranges from simple lodges to more comfortable stays, all centred around the landscape.
History in the Battlefields
The Battlefields region of KwaZulu-Natal focuses on the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879. Sites such as Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift are usually visited with a guide, which helps explain the events in detail. The setting itself remains largely unchanged, which adds context to the stories told during the tours. It’s a different pace of travel, with more time spent learning about the area.
Winelands and a slower pace
Africa is a fantastic destination for wine lovers and foodies, with the famous Cape Winelands centred around towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Stellenbosch is known for its historic streets, galleries and cafés, while Franschhoek has a strong food scene alongside its vineyards. Wine tastings are available across a range of estates, and the Franschhoek Wine Tram connects several of them in an easy way. It’s a relaxed way to end a trip, with a focus on food, wine, and time outdoors.
To experience a different side of Africa, contact your Travel Counsellor today.
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