An overview of the amazing sights and experiences South Africa has to offer any holidaymaker.

South Africa is called “the rainbow nation” because of its colourful mix of cultures, but the name could also extend to its incredible variety of natural beauty. Spectacular mountains, incredible canyons, gorgeous coastlines, vast savannahs, dramatic deserts, and verdant forests – South Africa has some of everything, its scenic splendours are a wonder to behold. The nation is home to a mosaic of diverse cultures, and an incredible variety of wildlife species. Around 10% of the world’s bird, fish, and plant species and about 6% of mammal and reptile species live in South Africa! The country features all the grandeur and wonder the African Continent has to offer, it’s a truly magical place to be. This all adds up to making South Africa the perfect holiday destination!

Getting Around

South Africa is crisscrossed by tens of thousands of kilometres of roads and railroads, so one can get around by both car and train. It’s easy to book wonderful train holidays, and there are lots of Rovos Rail holiday packages to choose from. Why drive when you can relax and see the sights from the comfort of a luxury train? It’s the best way to get there in style and enjoy every minute of the journey. South Africa is vast; there is so much to see it can be difficult to choose where to begin. Let’s start by having a look at the nine provinces that make up this amazing nation, and some of what each has to offer.

The Nine Provinces

• The Northern Cape – The Orange River flows, sometimes fast, sometimes slow, across a wide and silent arid landscape transformed by the spring rains into a wonderland of wildflowers.
• KwaZulu Natal – Durban, the province’s sun-drenched capitol, was called Thekwini by the Zulu, meaning “The Place Where the Earth and the Ocean Meet”. Come here for seaside fun!
• The Eastern Cape – Famed for its Northern Ukhahlamba region, the home of dramatic mountains and green valleys, a great destination for nature enthusiasts, the crystal-clear brooks are perfect for fly fishing.
• Mpumalanga Province – Bearing the nickname “Paradise Country”, it’s easy to see why. Panoramic mountain views, lush valleys, verdant forests, sparkling rivers, and roaring waterfalls all combine to create an enchanted land of natural splendour.
• The Western Cape – Nestled between the sparkling Atlantic Ocean and eye-catching Table Mountain, Capetown is among the world’s most exciting and beautiful cities. In addition to Capetown’s contagious charm, the splendid beaches and pastoral wine country make The Western Cape a must-visit.
• Gauteng Province – This is a gold country; the discovery of the precious metal caused a gold rush that culminated in the founding of Johannesburg and Pretoria, two of the nation’s largest cities. Here we can find the Magaliesberg mountains, one of the world’s most ancient ranges, and home to nearly 50% of Southern Africa’s avian species – a bird enthusiast’s paradise!
• The Free State – Take the celebrated Highlands Route from Harrismith to Zastron through Golden Gate National Park, featuring gorgeous mountain scenery and quaint country villages.
• Limpopo Province – Also known as the “Great North”, this is a realm of legends, where mysterious forests are home to ancient ruins and relics, a landscape remaining virtually unchanged for centuries.
• The Eastern Cape – If it’s a safari you’re after (cameras only, please!) this is where you can witness Africa’s famed “Big Five” – elephants, rhinos, lions, cape buffaloes, and leopards. Life here is wild!

There’s so much more to tell, we have only scratched the surface of all that South Africa and her incredibly diverse provinces have to offer. Go see for yourself; South Africa is always guaranteed to please.