South Africa has long been one of those destinations that sits proudly on many travellers' bucket lists. From spectacular scenery and world-class wildlife to moving history and warm hospitality.

Recently, I had the opportunity to experience some of the country's highlights for myself, travelling from the breathtaking Panorama Route into the heart of Kruger National Park before ending the journey in Johannesburg and Soweto. This is the first in a three-part series sharing not only what I saw, but also the practical tips, unforgettable moments and personal reflections that made this journey so special.

My adventure began with an overnight flight into Johannesburg before connecting onwards to Mpumalanga, the gateway to one of South Africa's most spectacular regions. Before you travel, there are a couple of handy things worth knowing that all baggage must be collected and rechecked in for your domestic flights. It's an easy process once you know what to expect, but it's one of those little details that can make your journey much more relaxed. If, like me, you have a little time to spare between flights, don't be tempted to spend it sitting in the terminal. Just opposite the airport, the InterContinental offers access to its spa facilities, making it the perfect place to enjoy a leisurely lunch, unwind with a massage or simply relax by the pool before continuing your journey. It's a wonderful way to ease yourself into the slower pace of South African life.

The short flight into Mpumalanga immediately felt different. Gone were the vast international terminals, replaced instead by charming regional airports with traditional thatched roofs and open-air spaces that make you feel as though you've already arrived in the African bush.

My first night was spent at Angel's View Hotel, and I honestly couldn't have imagined a more fitting introduction to South Africa. Nestled high above the escarpment, the hotel lives up to its name, the views alone make you stop and take a breath. The panoramic views stretching for miles across the surrounding landscape. I stayed in one of the charming Hobbit Cottages, each offering a private terrace where the sunset paints the horizon in shades of gold, orange and crimson. If you're fortunate enough to wake before dawn, sunrise is every bit as spectacular.

Inside, the cottages strike a beautiful balance between contemporary comfort and African-inspired design. Warm natural textures, a freestanding egg bath, indoor and outdoor showers and thoughtful finishing touches create a space that's both luxurious and wonderfully connected to its surroundings. Although these cottages are reserved for adults, the hotel also offers spacious family accommodation within the main building, making it an excellent choice for couples and families alike.

Dinner that evening set the tone for the days ahead. The restaurant may be intimate in size, but what it lacks in scale it more than makes up for in atmosphere. Excellent food, warm hospitality and an impressive South African wine list combined to create the perfect welcome to the country.

The following morning I set off along the Panorama Route, one of the most scenic drives in South Africa and, in my opinion, an essential addition to any Kruger itinerary. Each stop revealed another side of this remarkable region. The Three Rondavels stood proudly above the magnificent Blyde River Canyon, their distinctive shapes resembling the traditional African huts from which they take their name.

At Bourke's Luck Potholes, centuries of swirling water have sculpted extraordinary rock formations, while reminders of the area's gold-mining history add another fascinating layer to the landscape. Legend has it if you wash your face in the water it wards off bad luck! 

Perhaps the moment that stayed with me most was standing at God's Window. After the short walk to the viewpoint, the Lowveld unfolded endlessly before us. It was one of those rare places where words struggle to do the view justice. Looking across the seemingly untouched landscape, I found myself imagining this must surely be what God looked upon when creating the world.

From there, we continued to the beautiful Lisbon Falls before descending into the ancient indigenous forest at Grasskop Gorge. Walking amongst the towering trees along the elevated boardwalks was a wonderful contrast to the dramatic viewpoints we'd experienced earlier in the day, proving once again just how diverse South Africa's landscapes really are.

Of course, every great road trip deserves a memorable lunch stop, and mine came in the picturesque town of Grasskop. Harrie's Pancakes has earned something of a legendary reputation amongst travellers exploring the Panorama Route, and after enjoying one of their delicious pancakes, it's easy to understand why. Sometimes the simplest recommendations become the ones you remember most.

As the afternoon drew on, I finally arrived at Kruger Gate Hotel, and if I'm honest, this was probably the accommodation that surprised me the most. I wasn't entirely sure what to expect, but seeing it in person blew me away a real welcome to the Africa bush. Recent renovations have transformed the property into a beautiful blend of contemporary luxury and authentic African style, with traditional thatched architecture creating the feeling that you've already stepped into the bush.

Its location is undoubtedly one of its greatest strengths. Sitting just a stone's throw from Kruger Gate itself, it provides effortless access to the national park while offering all the comforts of a luxury hotel. Families are particularly well catered for thanks to the spacious rooms, dedicated family pool, playground and mini golf, while those looking for a quieter escape can relax beside the stunning infinity pool overlooking the Sabie River or indulge in a treatment at the treetop spa.

One of my favourite moments came as I sat beside that infinity pool, watching wildlife move quietly along the river below. Before I even entered Kruger National Park, I already spotted kudu, baboons, buffalo and even a bush baby. It was a gentle reminder that, in this part of South Africa, nature is never very far away.

That evening I experienced my first traditional South African braai. The buffet celebrated both local flavours and international favourites, meaning adventurous diners could sample dishes such as crocodile while those preferring more familiar options were equally well catered for. It was the perfect end to a remarkable first few days.

As I headed to bed that evening, excitement was beginning to build. Beyond the gates that lay just a few hundred metres away waited one of the world's greatest wildlife destinations. What I didn't know then was that less than an hour after entering Kruger National Park the following morning, I'd find myself staring into the eyes of a lion as it calmly walked past my vehicle.

But that's a story for the next chapter...