The number of tourists drawn from the local South African population is increasing according to figures released by the state department for tourism in the country. This tip in the scales might have been inspired by the fact that more locals are warming up to the idea of local travel or the rising number of expatriates in the country. There are experiences that tourists go through that can only happen in this destination.
There is quite a lot to see in this southern part of the African continent; all you need is to obtain any of the valid visa types for South Africa. Travellers are only allowed to enter South Africa with a valid visa, but also depending on individual travel needs. Regardless of your prime purpose for visiting South Africa, any visitor with valid travel documents can visit as many destinations as they like.
Bushveld Walking safari
This is an opportunity for the brave to get as close as possible to the untamed wild. Many other places in the world offer walking safaris but it is only in South Africa where they are readily available in various forms.
Mountain Tee
Golf lovers look at most things and imagine what it would feel like teeing from there. It is for such people that the 19th hole at the Limpopo Legend Golf and Safari Resort was made for. There is no other part in the world that is as high and as long as this one so it poses an epic challenge for all who try. The experience starts with golfers being taken up the Hanglip Mountain in a helicopter. Teeing happens at the mountain’s edge so it pays to bear through the first 18 holes.
Get a glimpse of an endangered species (the African Wild Dog)
Studies show that the entire world has a wild dog population of only 5,000. Not only do visitors get to see the wild dog but they can use an identification kit to identify the ones they spot. Only key reserves are enjoined in the conservation of the wild dogs among them being the Madikwe Game Reserve.
Spend time on a beach made by men
While there are many countries which can stand up to be counted for having an artificial beach, the one in Sun City is quite unique. The lost city setting allows travellers to get into the swimming and surfing mode in record time. The beach is 4km from the Madikwe Game Reserve so those who love beach activities and safaris can get both in the same place.
Drink Rooibos tea
Interesting enough is the fact that Rooibos tea does not grow in any other area of the world naturally. If you ever land in South Africa, you better include drinking Rooibos tea in your bucket list – the tea is sourced from fynbos in the Cederberg. It is not clear how long people have been taking this tea but there is evidence that it has been harvested since the 8th century. When you get to this area, you will enjoy horse riding, hiking, and tea tasting. Did you know that rooibos is also infused into food?
The Northern Cape Wildflowers
The northern cape of South Africa is a haven for flower lovers because of the thousands of floral species that grow here. Half of these flower types are only unique to this location no wonder the floral region of Namaqualand appears on many itineraries. In early August, this area is usually dry and semi-arid. It is adorned by a carpet of blue sporrie, purple vygies, daisies and other wildflowers that bloom overnight. You will only travel for 3 hours from Cape Town to Namaqualand where the sights are pleasant and you can walk, hike and ride mountain bikes.
The Kalahari red dunes
When you speak of desert lands, many people imagine that nothing good could come from there. It is no surprise that this region on the Northern Cape is known to many as the forgotten corner. Even without being told, you will know you are in the Kalahari when you sight the distinctive red sand. Stretching way into Namibia and Botswana, this desert has the world’s greatest stretch of unbroken sand ever. Wildlife that can be spotted here includes jackals, cape fox and black manned lion.
Hole in the Wall
This attraction is located in the wild coast within close proximity to Coffee Bay. The great structure is a wall made out of sandstone and has a wall that has been naturally curved out of it. If you are looking for a site from where you can take breathtaking photos, this is it. When the tide comes, it crashes through the hole resulting to a spectacular sight. This area is generally unspoiled, wild and has a magical feel.
The winelands
Currently number 9 in terms of the quality of wine produced in the world, South Africa is home to over 560 wineries. The scenery down at the cape is as delightful as the wine produced there.
Outdoor bathtub
In a small village tucked deep into the Amathole Mountains is a hostel facility that offers guests an opportunity to take a bath within full sight of nature. Heated using a donkey boiler, this bath tub is kept hot by the guests themselves. You can only be in the tub for a maximum of 30 minutes so it is advisable to always book early.