December is nearly around the corner and as we transition through these Winter months that means one thing, cold weather. Long gone are the days we would spend under the warm Summer sun. Now I even catch myself daydreaming about beautiful beaches, palm trees, white sand, and tan skin. On a more positive side December means the holiday’s, time off from school, and vacation time. Chances are you’re looking to getaway somewhere warm and tropical to escape the low temperatures. Instead of traveling to somewhere warm in the United States or to a tropical island book a trip to South Africa. In case you need a little more convincing we’ve created a short list of the top four reasons to visit this destination that has become known as “A whole world in one country”.
South Africa
Photo taken by Amanda Berusch
Beaches
Since we’re already talking about warm weather you’re definitely going to want to fly to South Africa to relax the day away at their beautiful beaches. Cape Town, a port city located along South Africa’s southwest coast, has some of the best beaches for travelers to explore. Camps Bay, despite its popularity, is a great spot for couples, friends, and families to spend the day or an entire trip. It can appear glamorous and ritzy but this is not true. The atmosphere at Camps Bay remains casual and leisurely. The boulevard is filled with great spots to eat, shop, and drink. Only a few minutes from the water makes it a great place to spend the day before going to grab dinner or a cocktail. The views are stunning when the sun is setting, and is especially great to visit during South Africa’s Summer months from Dec.-Feb. so perfect timing for this upcoming holiday season.
Another location to add to your itinerary is Boulders Beach also located in Cape Town. This spot is described as a sheltered cove of soft white sand and massive granite boulders. What sets Boulders Beach apart from other beaches in South Africa is that it’s the home of thousands of local African penguins. To get as close to the animals as you can you can walk along the boardwalk and see them in their natural habitat going about their daily routines.
Boulders Beach, South Africa
Photo taken by Mikkel Houmøller
Wildlife
After traveling all the way to South Africa you want to make sure you see some one-of-a-kind wildlife that you won’t be able to find anywhere else. On the country’s tourism website there is an entire page dedicated to the distinct animals that inhabit the savannah regions. Elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards and buffalo which are known as the “big five” are the top mammals that live amongst the South African territory. If you’re looking to get an up close and personal view of some of these creature’s plan to visit to The Kruger National park.
Kruger National Park, South Africa
Photo taken by Nicolas Raymond
This park alone has over 10,000 elephants and 20,000 buffaloes. The White Rhino which was a species on the verge of becoming extinct has been saved and now lives freely within Kruger National Park.
Another activity you won’t want to miss out on is a South African safari. This is a special kind of experience you won’t be able to have anywhere else. When planning a safari you not only get to see various types of wildlife but have the opportunity to stay in various luxury accommodations. Some of these include cozy lodges, intimate boutique hotels, and gorgeous villas. Staying in one of these many options makes for a more memorable safari experience. Zicasso makes it easy for you to book your dream holiday safari package. Options combine the classic safari experience with a break in Cape Town or the Cape Winelands to spend some time at the beach or in wine country. The website offers various types of tours depending on where you want to go, what you want to see and what you feel most comfortable with. They offer a safari for first-timers which is a great choice if you're skeptical about the experience. This is a once in a lifetime experience you won’t want to miss.
Food & Wine
After participating in all of these activities you are bound to build up an appetite. South Africa has some of the best dining options in the world. The Cape Winelands is a great place to visit to taste some delicious wines. The vineyards are located on beautiful estates with views that are so perfect it feels like you're living in a postcard. Only an hour from Cape Town, a visit to the Cape Winelands is the perfect day trip if you’re looking to experience any of the top three wine-growing regions: Franschhoek, Stellenbosch and Paarl.
Stellenbosch Wine Route, Western Cape, South Africa
Photo taken by South African Tourism
This city is also known for its award-winning restaurants. Franschhoek, as mentioned above, is considered the culinary capital of South Africa. Some of this city’s top restaurants you should plan to try are:
Foliage Restaurant
Pierneef a La Motte
Ryan’s Kitchen
Le Bon Vivant
Bread and Wine
You won’t be disappointed with any of these delicious restaurants, and be sure to check out some of the best that Stellenbosch and Paarl have to offer as well.
Get Local
Lastly, to have a memorable experience in South Africa you will want to get to know the locals. While this idea sounds pretty simple and maybe not too exciting there is no better way to have a rewarding experience in any place you visit than to get to know the people that live in the area. Communicating with locals gives you a glimpse into the daily lives of South Africans and allows you to see different perspectives. The natives of this country are known for being happy and constantly smiling. They love to meet travelers and recommend their favorite places, things to see and things to do. If you get the opportunity strike up a conversation with someone. You will be amazed at what you can learn from the people in the city you’re vacationing in. Some other ways to really feel like a local include taking a traditional Malay curries cooking class in Cape Town. It’s a great opportunity to learn more about South African culture and history and try some classic dishes.
Photo taken by Octagon
While these are some of our top picks for spending a vacation in South Africa there is an even longer list of things to do and see while you’re there. Cape Town is one of the countries biggest and most popular cities but don’t limit yourself to just there. If you have the time to explore longer take advantage and see more parts of this beautiful country.
Have you traveled to South Africa before? If you have email us at wanderersonlyinfo@gmail.com with pictures and a description of some of your favorite things you did while on your trip. Happy wandering.
SaveSaveSaveSaveSaveSave
