FROM ITS PEOPLE TO THE SPECTACULAR WILDLIFE; THE SUPERB FOOD OR THE WONDERFUL WINES IT'S NO WONDER
SOUTH AFRICA IS KNOWN AS 'THE RAINBOW NATION'!
This is a big country – twice the size of France, in fact – and its diversity is just as staggering. There's a little bit of everything here: arid deserts, lush forests, manicured vineyards, dramatic mountains... not to mention rich game viewing, from charging elephants to wadding penguins.
It's as visually breathtaking as its cities are varied too: the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg contrasts sharply with the fun-loving seaside ambience of Durban and the European-style chic of Cape Town. In between are game reserves and wilderness, quaint towns and costal resorts, all easily explored by the excellent road network, or by the legendary luxury of Rovos Rail.
Two favourite areas though are the fertile valleys that are home to not only some of the world's best wines but also some of its best restaurants. Both have their own distinctive beauty and unique landscapes coupled with luxurious places to stay.
South Africa is full of great contrasts and vibrant colour, unrivalled natural beauty and never-ending vistas, And although its people and culture are equally wide-ranging – for example, there are no fewer than eleven official languages (although English is the main one) – they unify this country wherever you travel. South Africans are among the most upbeat, welcoming and humorous people you'll find anywhere, and they bring a new vitality to this fascinating destination.