South Africa

Destinations

South Africa

One of the world’s most naturally beautiful countries, South Africa offers a unique combination of European influences and rich African culture. There is so much more to this country than the incredible wildlife for which it is famous for, although that should not be missed.

Colourful South Africa offers visitors everything from the cosmopolitan centre of Johannesburg to the coastal resort of Durban and from the deserts of the Kgalagadi to the lush green forests of Tsitsikamma. It is a true feast for all the senses and you will discover it all, from beautiful unspoilt beaches to the vibrant nightlife of beautiful Cape Town, set against the backdrop of Table Mountain. Not to mention a warm and welcoming temperate climate that makes any time the perfect time to visit this land of contrasts.

Highlights

Sightseeing. Wild animals in their natural habitats, Garden Route, the winelands of Stellenbosch, Vredofort Dome, Mafikeng Museum, Robben Island

Culture and entertainment. Contemporary South African dance, art, live music, theatres

Activities and sports. Diving, snorkelling, water rafting, surfing, boat trips

Major events. Kaapse Klopse (January), Comrades Marathon (June), Grahamstown National Arts Festival (July)

Useful information about South Africa

Language	Africaans, English
Currency	ZAR - South African Rand
Dialing Code	+27
Time Zone	GMT+2
Flight time	Abu Dhabi - Johannesburg 8:45

Cape Town

Cape Town is one of Africa’s most vibrant and stunning cities and has been blessed with natural gifts including the iconic Table Mountain. This colourful city has it all, from rugged mountains to sweeping beaches and rolling winefields. Historically a port-of-call for traders bridging the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, Cape Town has embraced settlers of all kinds, and its diverse influences are evident at every turn, from French patisseries to English pubs, Dutch communities to Malaysian noodle houses. With 350 years of history and a café culture like no other, Cape Town is a must for every South Africa visitor.

Johannesburg

First settled in the times of the great gold rush, “Jo’burg” - as the locals refer to it - is a city of exciting contrasts. One of the world’s largest inland cities, Johannesburg is a thriving cosmopolitan centre, combining an eclectic mix of old world charm and contemporary architecture, with many outstanding museums and local art shops to satisfy your appetite for culture.

Port Elizabeth

Founded in 1820, South Africa’s second oldest city is also its major seaport. Stretching for 16 kilometres along Algoa Bay, Port Elizabeth is a booming commercial centre that has lost none of its original small town charm. Given its unique geographic assets, the “Friendly City” has become known as Africa’s water sports capital.

Kruger National Park

One of the world’s greatest game reserves and an iconic safari destination, the Kruger National Park is South Africa’s flagship wildlife sanctuary. Home to over 147 species of mammal, including some of the most feared predators on earth, as well as 114 reptile species and over 300 species of trees, the Kruger National Park is much more than a tourist attraction. The park is a two million hectare conservation project critical to the protection of our planet’s rarest animals and is vital to the growth of sustainable eco-tourism in South Africa.