South Africa

South Africa is one of the most varied countries on earth, cramming desert, ocean, vineyard, savannah, and mountain into a single nation the size of western Europe. It has world-class wildlife, two spectacular coastlines, a fascinating history, and a food and wine scene that still surprises. It is also one of the most accessible safari destinations on earth, malaria-free in many reserves, easy to self-drive, and with infrastructure that makes independent travel straightforward.

Kruger National Park needs little introduction, one of Africa’s great wildlife experiences, where the Big Five roam across an area the size of Wales. Private reserves bordering Kruger and the malaria-free parks of the Eastern and Western Cape offer excellent alternatives for those wanting something more intimate. Cape Town is simply one of the world’s great cities, with Table Mountain providing a backdrop that never loses its impact. The surrounding peninsula packs in penguin beaches, dramatic cliff roads, and the windswept headland of Cape Point. The nearby Winelands produce serious wines in beautiful valley settings, while the Garden Route ticks off ancient forests, whale-watching bays and adventure sports, making for one of the world’s most satisfying road trips. Further north, the Drakensberg offers serious hiking through vast mountain landscapes, while the stark dunes of the Kalahari deliver a desert experience that feels genuinely remote.