5 Reasons to head to South Africa

With a rich history, incredible scenery, iconic wildlife and friendly locals South Africa holds the potential to create some once in a lifetime memories for your family this year. As a born and bred South African I have put together what I think are the top 5 reasons to leave behind the cold British weather in favour of an African adventure.

1) The Scenery Table Mountain is of course the iconic landmark known across the globe and is a must see, but there is so much more. How about a trip to the Cape Point Nature reserve for stunning wild beaches and elevated views of the ocean below. During the spring the West Coast National Park comes alive with incredible flowers creating a tapestry of colour and life. Further inland the Panorama Route would take you to the Blyde River Canyon – the third largest canyon in the world with a host of beautiful waterfalls to enjoy. Did I hear you say road trip?

2) Food

South Africa is home to some incredible restaurants – many of them multi award winning. Whether you enjoy a good steak, a huge seafood platter or a tasting menu to interest even the pickiest of eaters there is something for everyone. My personal favourites are The Pot Luck club in Cape Town and Harbour House in Kalk Bay – best enjoyed with a glass of wine while watching the waves as the sun sets. Yes it really is that romantic!

3) Value For Money

For those of us travelling on the Great British Pound, South Africa is incredible value for money. Activities and meals are a fraction of their equivalent in the UK. An outstanding 3 course meal in one of the top restaurants in Cape Town would cost in the region of £60 per person including wine. For my favourite cocktail at La Parada – an Endless Summer you would be paying around £4 and only £2 for a local beer. What more do you need?

4) Wildlife

South Africa is a haven for wildlife – the incredible Greater Kruger National Park offers big 5 sightings with expert guides and trackers and is an easy flight away from Johannesburg or Cape Town; there is no excuse to miss out. 3 nights on safari would offer you the wildlife of your dreams, cultural interaction, amazing food, possibly spa treatments and so much more. If adventure is in your heart – this is the trip for you. If you prefer to be in a Malaria free reserve and are travelling with small children; there are some great options that will satisfy even the smallest animal tracker in your family. If you are more interested in ocean life, you can head to the coastal town of Hermanus for some of the best land-based whale watching in the world or to Gansbaai for shark cage diving. There truly is something for everyone.

5) Its easy

If your life is anything like mine your life is busy – you juggle kids, school lifts, after school activities, dog walks, work, gym, bills, friends and extended family. You need a holiday that is tailor made to take care of you every step of the way. You can fly direct to South Africa every day of the week, the domestic flights between destinations are easy and on average only 2 hours long. You can even self-drive between destinations if you like the feel of the open road. By using me, your Travel Counsellor you will have every detail taken care of – flights, transfers, accommodation, game drives, activities and restaurant reservations. The only responsibility you have is to enjoy every minute and send me some pictures of my home town.

Above are some photos I have taken through the years on my various South African adventures