South Africa offers the perfect destination for showing the family some animal magic. Few countries in Africa can provide such a diverse range of experiences in one visit. The canny traveller can combine the vibrant city life with winelands, beaches and forests with a trip on the wild side. South Africa has almost every type of safari for every level of expertise and budget. With more than 1,500 miles of coast, and 21 national parks nestled in individual ecosystems that range from mountains to mangroves, there is something for everyone. And when it is time to relax, the choice of accommodation is wider than anywhere else in Africa – from simple campsites to luxury lodges – and the staff are enthusiastic and knowledgeable.
Most travellers want to see the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and buffalo) and, with the right itinerary, a stay of three nights the chances of seeing all five animals are good (although never guaranteed). A great option with the family is the Eastern Cape as it is, unlike most other safari destinations, malaria free. Most game viewing is conducted on game drives, however, getting close to nature by exploring on foot is a fantastic experience to acquaint you to smaller creatures and insects and an introduction to game tracking, great fun for children of all ages!
And to end the perfect trip? Obviously the sea side! KwaZulu-Natal beaches offer the perfect location for diving, snorkelling and boat expeditions. Between November and the end of February expect to see hundreds of leatherback and loggerhead turtles come on to the beaches to lay their eggs. The warm Indian Ocean waters here are teeming with marine life, from 8 species of whale to 1,250 species of fish. A perfect end to a sensational trip and one that will be full of memories that will make you smile for years to come.
‘At-a-Glance’ Illustrative Itinerary
DAY 3: Another game drive in the morning and chance to walk in the reserve with the rangers. In the afternoon visit a lion breeding and conservation project that is run in the park, for re-introduction into the wild. Return to the lodge for some leisure time and a swim in the pool.
DAY 8: Today you leave Swaziland for the Indian Ocean at the northern settlement of Kosi Bay, near Mozambique. In the afternoon explore the pristine beach, wade among the iconic traditional Tsonga fish traps, snorkel in the estuary or go hippo spotting.
