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Travelling to South Africa: Epic adventures

Article by GVI

GVI

Posted: December 14, 2022

Travelling to South Africa is an incredible experience that offers a wealth of diverse sights, experiences and activities. Located at the southern tip of the African continent, South Africa is home to a wide range of breathtaking landscapes, from the towering peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains to the endless sandy beaches of the Eastern Cape.

Travel to-do: Highlights when travelling to South Africa

Travelling to South Africa: Wildlife

One of the top attractions in South Africa is its wildlife. The country is home to an incredible array of animals, including the Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros. The best place to see these magnificent creatures is in one of South Africa’s many national parks, such as Kruger National Park, which is home to over 147 mammal species and over 500 bird species.

The Limpopo province is located in the north of South Africa, and it is home to a number of incredible natural attractions, including the world-famous Kruger National Park. Kruger National Park is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist destinations, and it is home to an incredible array of wildlife, including the Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros.

Kruger National Park is also home to over 147 mammal species and over 500 bird species, making it a paradise for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts. In addition to its incredible wildlife, Kruger National Park also offers a wide range of activities and attractions, including safari drives, walking safaris, and birdwatching tours.

The Limpopo province is also home to a number of other natural attractions, including the beautiful Waterberg Mountains and the world-renowned Mapungubwe National Park. Mapungubwe National Park is home to a wealth of archaeological and historical sites, including the remains of the ancient kingdom of Mapungubwe, which is believed to have been the first kingdom in southern Africa.

Travelling to South Africa: Beaches

In addition to its stunning wildlife and rich cultural heritage, South Africa is also known for its beautiful beaches. The country has a long coastline that stretches along both the Indian and the Atlantic Ocean, and it is home to some of the most stunning beaches in the world.

Durban, located in the KwaZulu-Natal province on the eastern coast of the country, is known for its warm, inviting waters. This makes it the perfect spot for swimming, surfing and soaking up the sun.

The Western Cape province is another top beach destination in South Africa. This region is home to some of the country’s most beautiful beaches, including Clifton beach and Camps Bay, which are known for their picturesque views and crystal-clear waters.

The Eastern Cape is another must-visit beach province. This region is home to some of the country’s most stunning and secluded beaches, such as the Wild Coast and the Kei Mouth, which are perfect for those seeking a more peaceful and isolated beach experience.

Experience local cultures when travelling to South Africa

South Africa is a country with a rich and diverse cultural heritage, and one of the most unique aspects of its culture are its indigenous communities. The country is home to a number of different indigenous cultures, each with their own customs, traditions, and way of life.

One of the most well-known indigenous cultures in South Africa is the Zulu people. The Zulu are the largest cultural group in South Africa, and they are known for their vibrant and energetic culture, which is centred around family, community and tradition.

Another important indigenous culture in South Africa is the Xhosa people. The Xhosa are the second-largest cultural group in the country, and they are known for their strong spiritual beliefs and connection to the natural world.

Visitors to South Africa can experience the country’s indigenous cultures firsthand by visiting one of the many cultural centres and museums located throughout the country. These cultural centres offer a wide range of educational and interactive exhibits that showcase the customs, traditions and art of South Africa’s indigenous communities. Remember to research any tourist attraction you visit to ensure it is ethical. A big point to look out for is whether profits from tourism are invested back into the local community.

Travelling to South Africa for foodies

Of course, no trip to South Africa would be complete without trying some of the country’s delicious cuisine. From the mouth-watering flavours of traditional dishes like bobotie and braai, to the wide range of locally-produced wines and craft beers, there is no shortage of culinary delights to discover in South Africa.

Learn more about travelling to South Africa with GVI here.

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