Top 10 South African Activities
With opportunities to see the Big Five of both land and sea, along with incredible scenery, enormous national parks, world-class vineyards, a fascinating history and vibrant, friendly people, South Africa frequently tops the lists of the world’s best holiday destinations. Even so, less than 1% of the world's travellers make it here, so it’s a place where you’ll find yourself with a few select, like-minded and discerning adventurers who have discovered this gem of a country. It’s a place you could return to for the whole of your life and never tire of it.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
- Leopard spotting in the Sabi Sands
- The Glorious Garden Route
- A Breakfast on Table Mountain
- The Franschhoek Wine Tram
- A Flight from Freedom to Robben Island
- Penguin Kayak Capers
- The Marine Big Five
- The Turtles of KwaZulu Natal
- Township Connections
- Shark Cage Encounters
Staying in the midst of the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve, you will benefit from access to the vast wildlife populations moving in and out of the Kruger National Park but without any of the crowds. And, just like you, leopards don’t like crowds, so prepare to spot the lesser-spotted spotted cat.
There is no end to the possibilities for hiking, kayaking in the lagoons, picnicking on dramatic beaches, whale watching, diving with sharks, playing golf, visiting elephant sanctuaries and ostrich farms, or communing with the penguins. Every bend in the road produces new dramatic vistas and even more new experiences.
For the most adventurous travellers, a guided hike at dawn is the way to experience this thrilling mountain. There’ll be a breakfast welcome at the top as you soak up the views before heading down by cable car to save your precious knees.
Given that you may well have had a tipple or two, it helps that the lines are colour-coded and easy to understand. There’s narration too, so that the journey is a learning experience.
Christo Brand was lucky enough to get to know him, as a young prison warder and then as a friend, and you will be able to spend personal time with Christo before taking a flight by helicopter to the stark, mysterious and disturbingly beautiful island where both men – in their different ways – spent time. The views of the Atlantic seaboard and the vineyards on the flight to and from the island are spectacular and uplifting, as is the human story of the transformation of South Africa under Nelson Mandela.
Nothing beats getting up-close and personal with these lovable creatures, though take care not to invade their personal space; they have a tendency to bite! You will see them float and dive, swim with ease under water, waddle up and down the beach and generally be very cute, from the enviable water-level position of a kayak.
All these are on the cards when you venture out into the waters of the Western Cape coastal region, Gansbaai and the Southern Peninsula. We suggest starting with the unforgettable experience of watching whales from the shore at Hermanus, where the world’s only whale-caller will blow his horn to announce when whales have been spotted.
You will be amazed by the size and willpower of these single-minded mothers.
You will see self-help and charity-funded improvements, you’ll speak to residents, and you may be treated to traditional music or even a gumboot dance. By taking a tour in a township, the money you pay will go towards improvements in these traditionally under-resourced communities.
These predators are typically more than 5m in length and there will be only a few bars between you and them. The trip out in the boat will often yield sightings of other wonders of the marine environment such as whales and dolphins. You may need to go into adrenaline detox after this adventure.
We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made safaris to the timeless savannahs of Africa. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.We are a boutique travel specialist. For over 30 years we have been creating luxury tailor-made safaris to the timeless savannahs of Africa. Your time is precious and with a world to see, we understand the importance of getting it absolutely right for you, every time.
An experienced team of well-travelled individuals, passionate about crafting journeys that are as exceptional as they are personal, while maximising our positive impact on the places in which we work.
While the evolution of travel and technology has seen much change at Journeysmiths over the years, our fundamental beliefs about the perfect holiday have not.
Journeysmiths mission is to inspire and expand peoples horizons through exceptional travel experiences, while preserving the natural world for future generations.
The Homestead is an ultra-luxurious lodge in the Nambiti Private Game Reserve in South Africa. Modern and contemporary in design, it offers high levels of luxury in the beautiful wilderness of South Africa. Every aspect, down to the very minutiae, of The Homestead is carefully considered in terms of sustainability. The goal here is to provide you with an unforgettable safari experience whilst protecting the Earth and its resources.
Cape Town is one of the world’s great cities with a unique setting beneath Table Mountain.
Situated in a quiet area of the beautiful village of Franschhoek, in the heart of the Cape Winelands, is the five-star Leeu House. Relaxing in the shady gardens one can lie in privacy and listen to the cicadas and the cooing of the Cape Doves – sounds so evocative of the Cape Winelands. Leeu House is an incredibly sophisticated property for adults who want to wine, dine, and enjoy each other’s company.
Founded in 1692, Babylonstoren is an historic Cape Dutch farm within one of the best preserved farmyards in South Africa. Set amidst fruit and vegetable gardens covering 3.5 hectares, the character-filled farmhouse still has whitewashed walls, distinctive gables, and impressive fireplaces. This is a property of immense character, and will make for the perfect retreat after a safari or sightseeing in Cape Town.
Drakensberg’s hidden gem, Cathedral Peak Hotel.
Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse is a gourmet hideaway that is intimate and personal with magnificent views across the water to the mountains.
Peaks such as the Giants Castle dominate the Drakensberg landscape and are impressive from every angle. Staying at Montusi Mountain Lodge you don’t need to go far for epic views: the natural beauty is already all around you, ready to be explored.
Located in the North West Province of South Africa, on a rocky outcrop in the centre of the Madikwe Game Reserve, sits the Madikwe Hills Private Game Lodge. There are ten sumptuous suites, all with elegant ‘Afrochic’ furnishings. Guests enjoy their game viewing in open topped vehicles, and short walks along old elephant tracks.
Tswalu (meaning “a new beginning”) is designed in classic African style and blends into the Kalahari environment, offering unrivalled elegance.
Morokuru River House is one of the most exciting exclusive use properties in South Africa.
With opportunities to see the Big Five of both land and sea, along with incredible scenery, enormous national parks, world-class vineyards, a fascinating history and vibrant, friendly people, South Africa frequently tops the lists of the world’s best holiday destinations. Even so, less than 1% of the world's travellers make it here, so it’s a place where you’ll find yourself with a few select, like-minded and discerning adventurers who have discovered this gem of a country. It’s a place you could return to for the whole of your life and never tire of it.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
If you’re looking for a country that’s got everything, choose South Africa. Renowned for the spectacular views of the Garden Route, vibrant Cape Town, malaria free safaris, fascinating history and outstanding wildlife, the whole family will fall under the alluring spell of this diverse country.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu was the first person to call South Africa “the rainbow nation”. It’s a reflection on the fascinating diversity of this country, not only in the identities of its people but in the landscapes, wildlife, cultures, and activities it offers. South Africa is a country which, because of its variety, can be all things to all people, truly a rainbow of varied opportunities and experiences.
in South Africa
Without a shadow of a doubt, South Africa is one of the very best places to watch wildlife in the world. The Kruger National Park — a protected area the size of Wales — is certainly the most famous and popular safari destination, but with Journeysmiths you’ll escape the crowds to explore vast, wildlife-filled private reserves, in the company of the best guides.
La Residence is the finest boutique hotel in the Cape Winelands. The main house is reminiscent of a French country chateau and is set in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley surrounded by classic Cape Winelands scenery and overlooking a peaceful lake. The hotel is decorated and furnished in style with French antiques, Persian carpets and oil paintings, yet a friendly informal atmosphere prevails.
To experience a little bit of everything that South Africa has to offer, you can hardly do better than to drive along the coastal road of the Garden Route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. It’s an extraordinary journey, and there’s wildlife on both land and shore, endless beaches, historic battlefields, and the vineyards are never far away. One day you might be whale spotting at Hermanus — renowned as one of the best whale watching locations in the world — and the next you could be learning about the Battle of Rorke’s Drift, handling antique weapons and scrambling over the British and Zulu positions.
Formerly the Zulu Kingdom, the province of KwaZulu Natal runs along South Africa’s dramatic Indian Ocean coastline. The Drakensberg Mountains create a natural border between Lesotho and the Eastern Cape, and offer some excellent hiking routes.
For families of all ages there is so much to see and do in South Africa, making it an excellent and diverse travel destination. We’ve chosen 20 of the best experiences to immerse you in the culture, wildlife and beautiful places of this remarkable country.
Set in spectacular African wilderness surrounds, Ecca Lodge is a unique safari property boasting a revolutionary design where penthouse chic meets the bush. Nestled into a gently sloping, densely vegetated hillside, the Lodge is airy and open with barely a barrier between indoors and the African bushveld.
South Africa is an excellent choice for family travel with children of all ages. Its wildlife is abundant, with a great diversity of species, including the Big Five: rhino, leopard, lion, elephant and buffalo. There are vast malaria-free reserves and it’s easy to get from safari regions to Cape Town and the beach.
Camp Jabulani is an amazing place; a luxury lodge surrounded by African bush teeming with wildlife, where you can enjoy an unforgettable experience in the company of elephants.
Set amidst two rolling mountain ranges, the Motse legae and Tarkuni homestead are the ultimate private sanctuaries on the vast Tswalu Kalahari Reserve. Recently redesigned to uncompromising standards of comfort and elegance, Tarkuni is an exceptional choice for families seeking a tranquil, exclusive-use escape.
A collection of exclusive-use bush villas, Morukuru Family welcomes you with top-notch personal service. The unrivalled range of activities, outstanding personal service, expert guiding and world-class cuisine make this portfolio of villas some of the best malaria-free safari properties in South Africa for families or a group of friends.
Madikwe Hills Lodge is an intimate and luxurious safari lodge set among the 75,000 hectares of the Madikwe Game Reserve. The main lodge has five luxurious suites, a dining lodge and a spa. The suites have been designed for complete relaxation and comfort, each boasting soft sofas, voluminous mosquito netting and cotton picot linen. Overhead fans and air conditioning are a welcome respite from the harshness of the African heat.
Ant’s Nest is one of the best places in Africa for a family safari, purpose built for families with children ranging from the very young through to teenage years. You’ll be hosted by Ant and Tessa Baber, who exude warm hospitality and have vast experience of conducting safaris for people of all ages in this pristine wilderness environment.
Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary
Working in partnership with globally recognised conservation organisation; Care for Wild, the world’s largest rhino orphanage, we have curated a truly unique and exclusive experience giving a privileged few behind-the-scenes access to this otherwise incredibly private sanctuary.
One of Cape Town's great landmarks, The Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel is a truly luxurious resort. A magnificent pale pink building fringed with palm trees, the iconic five star hotel offers tranquillity and seclusion in the heart of the vibrant city. Whether dining in fine restaurants, exploring the bustling streets of the cultural quarter or simply soaking up the sun, your time here promises wonderful memories.
This is one of the world’s great cities. From its peninsular position beneath the iconic Table Mountain, Cape Town has centuries of history as a trade hub between Europe and Asia and the multicultural influences are palpable.
Spanning 450 miles along the coast between the Winelands and Port Elizabeth, the Garden Route yields breathtaking panoramic views over the sea, coastal forests, mountains and vineyards.
Kruger National Park is South Africa’s best-known wildlife region, spanning 7,500 square miles over the northeast to the borders of Mozambique and Zimbabwe. We recommend exclusive lodging on private reserves adjacent to the park.
The coastal province of KwaZulu Natal stretches from the border of Mozambique to Durban, South Africa’s third largest city. This sub-tropical region is where Zulus, the Boers and the British collided.
South Africa has several outstanding malaria-free wildlife reserves. Madikwe is the largest and its climactic landscape of volcanic hills, expansive plains and winding rivers is a breathtaking backdrop for the private lodges within.
Tucked away in the Limpopo province, the pristine Waterberg region doesn’t make it into most traveller’s itineraries – which, along with a phenomenal array of mammals and birds, is part of the appeal.
Within a two-hour radius of Cape Town are the Cape Winelands. Settled some 300 years ago by Huguenot farmers fleeing persecution in Europe, many of today’s independent wine estates still bear their names.
The Drakensberg Mountains are at once lush and rugged. Ranging in elevation from 6,000 to more than 11,000 feet, this mountain range in KwaZulu Natal offers unparalleled hiking, birdwatching and flyfishing.
The only country able to offer malaria-free safaris, South Africa is a wonderful choice for many looking for a luxury safari experience. Enjoy the abundance of wildlife on offer in some of the most exclusive private reserves, before exploring cosmopolitan Cape Town, where the glamour of the city meets the rugged outdoors.
See the splendour of South Africa as a family on this exclusive safari. Spend your days exploring captivating Cape Town, enjoying the delights of the Winelands and on safari, seeking out the abundant wildlife that roams the wilderness. No matter your age, this iconic safari will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
Check in at Mhondoro Safari Lodge, a remarkable property where Africa-meets-Europe chic combines with contemporary design, attentive service, and unbelievable wildlife encounters.
Ellerman House describes itself as being for ‘discerning guests accustomed to the finer pleasures of life’ and everything about this glorious hotel reflects that statement. The Cape Town mansion we’d all have in our dreams, it’s a superb Relais & Chateaux hotel with unrivalled views across the manicured gardens to Robben Island, and the beyond to the bay. Perhaps the principal attraction to guests, many of whom return year after year, is the discreet yet attentive service giving you the impression that you are among friends.
Ivory Lodge is one of the most luxurious and exclusive safari lodges in South Africa.
We love this property’s quirky design, in particular the two-storey Thabametsi Treehouse which is run entirely on solar power and has impressive views across the park.
Journey to Leobo Lodge for a malaria-free safari, and an action-packed itinerary guaranteed to entertain the whole group. There are absolutely no time frames at Leobo, the reserve is yours to explore in the company of knowledgeable guides, and you can do so at your leisure.
&Beyond Phinda Private Game Reserve is the premier wildlife reserve in Kwa Zulu Natal, a lush ecosystem which is home not only to the Big Five but to elusive cheetah as well.
Thanda Safari Lodge invites you to experience ultimate luxury and world-class service.
Home to the late David Rattray, the pioneer of Heritage Tourism in the KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields, Fugitive’s Drift Lodge has won a reputation as the finest and most interesting lodge in the AngloZulu war battlefield region of KwaZulu-Natal.
Singita really does have the last word in luxury safari experiences, and Singita Boulders is no exception. The location is superb, the game viewing rich, and the lodge is a model of sustainability which other properties should strive to emulate.
Royal Malewane is fit for the king of the jungle, and Conde Nast Traveler has rated it as one of the Best 50 Resorts in the World 2017.
At the heart of the picturesque Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, the exclusive One&Only Cape Town stands. Offering an unprecedented level of luxury, this unbelievably chic waterfront resort is the perfect gateway to experience the vibrant and enchanting Cape Town, and its gorgeous surroundings. An idyllic hotel and spa with great vistas and luxury in abundance, the One&Only is perfect for life's most memorable moments.
To simply call this a treehouse would be an understatement. Tsala Treetop Lodge is the most incredible, luxury treetop property set amidst the canopy of an ancient indigenous forest. An idyllic forest getaway, you’ll be met with breathtaking views across rolling valleys, spectacular cuisine, and an array of interesting activities. Imbuing a sense of magic and mystery, a stay in this architecturally unique lodge is an experience you’ll remember for a lifetime.
At the edge of Hermanus Lagoon’s glistening waters stands Mosaic Lagoon Lodge. Set in an enviable location, where towering mountains meet the rippling ocean, the lodge is perfect for those interested in marine creatures, bird life and fascinating indigenous flora. Far from a one trick pony, this ecological gem is both an idyllic, remote retreat and an action-packed playground, with a host of activities sure to tickle your fancy.
Exuding sophistication, Grootbos Forest Lodge sits within landscaped gardens dotted with indigenous trees. Carefully designed to reflect traditional African warmth and combine it with an intercontinental twist, the lodge fuses aesthetic beauty with ultimate comfort. With breathtaking views and nature to match, stays at Grootbos are undoubtedly memorable.
“The Pride of Africa” is the most luxurious train in the world, and it steams it way across South Africa. Rovos Rail operates a remarkable heritage railway service, with the oldest locomotive, Tiffany, dating from 1894. You haven’t seen South Africa until you’ve seen it from the rails.
Luxurious safaris and vibrant Cape Town - South Africa is the Rainbow Nation.
The Care for the Wild Rhino Sanctuary is one of the world’s most successful rhino conservation projects, rescuing, rehabilitating and rewilding both black and white rhinos, and occasionally other species too. A stay at their Rhino View Lodge supports the project and gives you the unique opportunity to experience and observe this project first-hand.
Loapi offers the epitome of a private Kalahari experience. You’ll stay in your own spacious tented home with its own team of staff. Each of the six homes is carefully placed in the contours of the valley, offering both incredible savannah views and ultimate privacy. The camp is very welcoming of families and, being in a malaria-free area, is great for young and old alike.
South Africa has added its own unique spin to The Plettenburg: it’s no ordinary beach hotel, but rather has been elevated on account of its position, landscape, and overall quality of design and service to be one of the finest hotels along the Garden Route. Plettenberg is one of the most scenic towns on the Garden Route, and the hotel of the same name is the obvious accommodation choice.
The only country able to offer malaria-free safaris, South Africa is a wonderful choice for many looking for a luxury safari experience. Enjoy the abundance of wildlife on offer in some of the most exclusive private reserves, before exploring cosmopolitan Cape Town, where the glamour of the city meets the rugged outdoors.
See the splendour of South Africa as a family on this exclusive safari. Spend your days exploring captivating Cape Town, enjoying the delights of the Winelands and on safari, seeking out the abundant wildlife that roams the wilderness. No matter your age, this iconic safari will leave you with memories for a lifetime.
With opportunities to see the Big Five of both land and sea, along with incredible scenery, enormous national parks, world-class vineyards, a fascinating history and vibrant, friendly people, South Africa frequently tops the lists of the world’s best holiday destinations. Even so, less than 1% of the world's travellers make it here, so it’s a place where you’ll find yourself with a few select, like-minded and discerning adventurers who have discovered this gem of a country. It’s a place you could return to for the whole of your life and never tire of it.
We’ve compiled a list of our favourite experiences to inspire your imagination.
If you’re looking for a country that’s got everything, choose South Africa. Renowned for the spectacular views of the Garden Route, vibrant Cape Town, malaria free safaris, fascinating history and outstanding wildlife, the whole family will fall under the alluring spell of this diverse country.
Archbishop Desmond Tutu was the first person to call South Africa “the rainbow nation”. It’s a reflection on the fascinating diversity of this country, not only in the identities of its people but in the landscapes, wildlife, cultures, and activities it offers. South Africa is a country which, because of its variety, can be all things to all people, truly a rainbow of varied opportunities and experiences.
in South Africa
Without a shadow of a doubt, South Africa is one of the very best places to watch wildlife in the world. The Kruger National Park — a protected area the size of Wales — is certainly the most famous and popular safari destination, but with Journeysmiths you’ll escape the crowds to explore vast, wildlife-filled private reserves, in the company of the best guides.
Cape Town is one of the world’s great cities with a unique setting beneath Table Mountain.
To experience a little bit of everything that South Africa has to offer, you can hardly do better than to drive along the coastal road of the Garden Route between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth. It’s an extraordinary journey, and there’s wildlife on both land and shore, endless beaches, historic battlefields, and the vineyards are never far away. One day you might be whale spotting at Hermanus — renowned as one of the best whale watching locations in the world — and the next you could be learning about the Battle of Rorke’s Drift, handling antique weapons and scrambling over the British and Zulu positions.
Formerly the Zulu Kingdom, the province of KwaZulu Natal runs along South Africa’s dramatic Indian Ocean coastline. The Drakensberg Mountains create a natural border between Lesotho and the Eastern Cape, and offer some excellent hiking routes.
For families of all ages there is so much to see and do in South Africa, making it an excellent and diverse travel destination. We’ve chosen 20 of the best experiences to immerse you in the culture, wildlife and beautiful places of this remarkable country.
South Africa is an excellent choice for family travel with children of all ages. Its wildlife is abundant, with a great diversity of species, including the Big Five: rhino, leopard, lion, elephant and buffalo. There are vast malaria-free reserves and it’s easy to get from safari regions to Cape Town and the beach.
Care for Wild Rhino Sanctuary
Working in partnership with globally recognised conservation organisation; Care for Wild, the world’s largest rhino orphanage, we have curated a truly unique and exclusive experience giving a privileged few behind-the-scenes access to this otherwise incredibly private sanctuary.