South Africa

Located on the southern tip of Africa, and home of Table Mountain, the big five, the world's third largest canyon, and the nationwide delicacy that is biltong, South Africa is a world in one country. From cosmopolitan cities of business and finance, to sleepy seaside towns bustling with character, and wildlife encounters that leave you breathless, South Africa is a destination for both young and old.

Bordered by the sprawling deserts of Namibia, the unique countries of Botswana, Zimbabwe, and Lesotho, the Kingdom of Swaziland, and the beach resort country of Mozambique, South Africa is ideally located with easy and convenient access from almost anywhere in the world.

South Africa draws thousands of visitors a year thanks to a combination of first world amenities, superlative wildlife experiences, an excellent climate, natural beauty, cosmopolitan lifestyles, and a vibrant and eclectic mix of cultures. From the thumping heart of the business district in Johannesburg, make your way to the wildlife capital of Mpumalanga, followed by a burst of culture and seaside activity in KwaZulu-Natal.

Make your way to the quaint seaside city of Port Elizabeth and mix with the friendly locals before continuing your journey along the glorious Garden Route, enjoying the explosion of sights and sounds which encompasses your senses. End off your experience in the world renowned Western Cape, stopping in the stunning Winelands towns before embarking on your journey to the one and only Mother City, with Table Mountain at the helm. All this and more can be experienced in South Africa.

South Africa has never been shy of tourists, in fact, the country wholeheartedly welcomes you. Because of its experience as a leading tourist destination, South Africa has equipped itself for legions of visitors each year. In fact, 2010 sees thousands of tourists and football fans descending onto the country, as South Africa is the host for the Fifa Football World Cup, the first African country to be awarded this honour.

In South Africa, you can choose an experience and stick with it. Whether you want to spend your days in the bustling city, or retreat to a tranquil place of peace, you will be able to find accommodation to suit your needs. Establishments in South Africa are graded on a level of one to five stars by the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa.

Many hotels, guest houses and lodges have made use of this system, each striving to receive the best grading possible. You can therefore be guaranteed world class facilities and services at your South African accommodation. Choose from a variety of five star hotels in all the major cities, luxury lodges in the heart of the bush, tranquil guest houses in lush surroundings, or charming beach houses close to the sea.

For the more budget conscious, the country is also blessed with an array of backpacker's lodges, B&B's and farm houses, for a back-to-basics experience without compromising on quality and comfort.

Perfect climate. Check. Perfect accommodation. Check. Perfect view. Check. Perfect atmosphere. Check. What about activities? South Africa boasts a broad spectrum of activities to suit all, from the adrenaline junkie, to the more reserved. South Africa is home to a myriad of world famous attractions, but ultimately, no trip to the country is complete without visiting Cape Town in the Western Cape, and the world famous Kruger National Park.

Other must see attractions include:

• Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park in the heart of the Kalahari Desert - enjoy wide open spaces and hordes of game, including the majestic gemsbok.
• Smaller parks include Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park, Addo Elephant Park, Pilanesberg National Park, or the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
• The Augrabies Falls in the Northern Cape
• The Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga - the third largest canyon in the world
• The Tugela Falls - the second highest waterfall in the world
• The Garden Route - one of the top destination, running along the Southern Coast from Mossel Bay to Port Elizabeth
• Durban - popular and family friendly holiday city
• Port Elizabeth - ideal for swimming and scuba diving
• Jeffrey’s Bay - the surfing mecca of South Africa
• Cape Winelands - one of the world's top producers of wine
• Johannesburg - the business and economic powerhouse of Africa