South Africa Holidays

LAND OF DIVERSITY South Africa is one of the most diverse and enchanting countries in the world. Exotic combinations of landscapes, people, history and culture offer a larger-than-life experience for the traveller in search of a truly unique and inspiring experience. South Africa’s vast landscape includes savannahs, snow-covered mountains, forests, tropical swamps, endless beaches, tranquil rivers and… bustling urban epicentres. South Africa is known for its abundant wildlife (and of course the famous "big five") as well as its fantastic birding and eco-tourism possibilities. However, the real heart of this vibrant country is the diversity of people and cultures. South Africa’s family tree goes way back to the start of time. The country has been touted as the Cradle of Humankind, because it was here that archaeologists discovered 2,5 million year old fossils as well as the 100 000 year old remains of modern humankind. Many of South Africa’s cultures have their roots in an ancient world, whilst some of the cultures are relatively new – and others, well, are a fascinating mix of both. Southern African Air Safari In April 2001 our two splendid Convair 440 aeroplanes were purchased from an operator in Bolivia and flown by our crew over the Atlantic Ocean to their new home in South Africa. Built in 1954 the first owner was the US Airforce, which based them in Texas until 1992. Then followed their 8-year tour of duty in Cochabamba at 8 500ft on contract to the Bolivian airlines. The restoration of the air-conditioned aircraft to Rovos standards was achieved in Pietersburg and proved easier than expected due to the exceptionally good condition of the airframe. The aircraft have flown relatively few hours during their 46-year life and as they were operated in dry areas there was no corrosion damage to contend with. The avionics were deemed to be out of date and were thus completely upgraded to incorporate the most modern radar, moving map and positioning systems available. Zululand World-famous birding venues provide forest, grassland, wetland, bushveld, mountains, estuarine, coastline and open ocean habitats, making this southern Africa's most diverse area for birding. 63 southern African endemic or near-endemic species are present, making this region a must on any birders' wish list. The North East with its subtropical coast and endless beaches has a World Heritage Site, the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, and game reserves like the Tembe Elephant Park, the legendary Ndumo, Mkhuze, Hluhluwe, Kosi Bay and more, all these offering some of the richest birding and game viewing in the world. Inland is North West Zululand with the little explored areas of grassland and wetland birding in Vryheid, forest birding in the ancient Ngome Mist Forest and many more amazing places like Ithala, Emakhosini Heritage Park which celebrates the traditions of the Zulu Kings and the famous battles of Chaka, Phongola, the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Park to mention a few. BEACHES OF SOUTH AFRICA Most people associate South Africa with wildlife and scenery - but the country also boasts a vast number of beautiful beaches. With a coastline stretching some 3,000 km (almost 2,000 miles) from the Atlantic in the west to the Indian Ocean in the east, South Africa offers plenty of choice - whether you want to indulge in water sports or simply perfect an enviable tan. Frequently the beaches are close to nature reserves or places of historic or cultural interest. Beach experiences at these beaches include: Scuba Diving, Sport fishing, Surf Angling, Snorkeling, Ski Boating, Mountain Biking ,incredible scenery, Wildlife experiences, Family Holidays, Birding, Hiking, Beach Walks The Greater St Lucia Wetland is a World Heritage site. Remember Endless Summer? Bruce's Beauties? Well, that's just one of the incredible breaks on our coast. The best known surfing spots are around Cape Town, Durban, Jeffreys Bay and East London, but there are loads of great, virtually unsurfed waves. The many backpackers hostels around the country are geared up for board rental, escorted surfaris and surfing lessons, and there are dedicated surf schools in Durban and Cape Town. We have awesome windsurfing and kitesurfing spots. Langebaan, near Cape Town, is internationally recognised to be one of the top boardsailing venues in the world - and there are others. A more accessible way to experience the sea is in a specially designed sea kayak. There are escorted trips around Cape Town, Hermanus, Knysna, Plett and Durban. For a bit more of a challenge, try surfskiing - it's becoming a rather trendy pastime and can be very competitive. Surfskis are really fun boats to paddle - fast, responsive and with the approximate stability of a razor blade balanced on its edge. There is a whole series of races throughout the year all along the coast