South Africa
South Africa, otherwise known as The Rainbow Nation, is a country of vast landscapes, amazing vistas and wildlife. One of the most popular destinations in Africa, its easy to understand why; Fly-Drives, Safari's, Resorts and History combined with cosmopolitan iconic cities such as Cape Town make South Africa a great Holiday destination, but don't take our word for it........
Askthetraveller
Local weather information
Cape Town
When is the best time to travel
The best time to visit will depend on why you’re visiting.
If you are coming predominantly to experience a safari; then the best season for Kruger is April/May - September which is ‘dry season’ when the animals will congregate along the rivers and around the watering holes.
Elsewhere, October until March is high season, and with the exception of school holidays it won’t feel overcrowded, this is also a great time for self drive itineraries. The temperature will rise as the Southern Hemisphere moves into summer and the rains will come to the National Parks further north. During the southern hemisphere winter, June - August, expect it to be cold in the early mornings and at night.
Having said all of this, South Africa remains a year round destination
Peak Season:
Kruger :May-September
Southern Coast and Garden Route peak season: October-March
Whale watching on the Western Cape from July
Alternative: Year Round
South Africa in brief
South Africa really does have something for everyone.
Awesome self drives along the Garden Route and Route 62, The coastal cities of Cape Town and Durban, safaris and luxury game lodges where you have the opportunity to spot the big 5, vineyards with seriously good wine plus poignant battlefield sites in KwaZulu-Natal.
This list could go on and on and we recommend you come and see this stunning country for yourself and design your perfect trip.
South Africa is the perfect place to mix safari, self drive and cosmopolitan cities. Whether you’re a couple or on a family holiday, South Africa will leave you wanting to come back again and again.
AskTheTraveller work with the best experts in this fascinating destination to make your holiday unforgettable.
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South Africa history & Culture
Archbishop Desmond TuTu once referred to South Africa as the ‘Rainbow Nation’ and this really sums up the diversity and multiculturalism of this nation.
Portuguese, Germans and French Huguenots began arriving in the 1600’s and brought with them many slaves from India and what is today known as Indonesia. As a result, Islam and Hinduism are prominent religions. During the 1800’s Dutch and British settlers arrived. The language Afrikaans is derived from the Dutch settlers.
Black South Africans make up the vast majority of the population, currently around 80% and they are split into various ethnic groups.
There are cultural and historical centres and museums all over the country and lots of opportunity for visitors to learn about South Africa’s past including the recent violent history of apartheid and how, against all the odds, South Africa has developed into the democratic nation of today.