Though the image of vast open African plains scattered with baobab and fever trees fits the north of the country, South Africa offers the visitor a unique diversity of captivating landscapes from the wetlands of Maputaland, to the soaring mountains and vineyards of the Cape, to the white sandy beaches of the Indian Ocean. Even the climate differs from the African norm. The eastern regions have hot, humid summers with afternoon thunderstorms that clear the air and delightful winters with dry, sunny days - ideal for game viewing and touring. In contrast, the Cape has hot, dry summers (at the time of our winters), and cool, sometimes wet, winters. So, unlike most countries in the world, you can be sure of having excellent holiday weather at any time of the year.

When and How to Tour South Africa

This scenic and climatic diversity leads naturally to a diversity of wildlife, from the big game in the Kruger and adjacent private game reserves to the delightful herds of bontebok and Cape Mountain zebra to be found in the Cape. More and more of the land is being returned to its natural bushveld state and the wildlife protected. South Africa is the best place to see the Big Five, with large concentrations of elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and the rare white and black rhino.

Now, more than ever before, South Africa is also ready and able to share its cultural diversity with you. Thought-provoking cultural tours to both urban and rural areas enable our visitors to meet South Africans from all walks of life. Local people have a growing appreciation of their cultural treasures such as the ancient rock art of the San (bushmen) people, the healing mystery of the sangomas and the messages of the Zulu beadwork, and are eager to share their stories with you.

The drama of the landscape and brilliance of the colours is matched by an equally rich choice of places to stay. South Africa's lodges and hotels are unrivalled in the region and some of our retreats and game lodges contend with the finest of the world. These are places where you can witness nature in the raw and return to a touch, or indeed the full-blown cares, of luxury!