South Africa
Where wildlife safaris meet world-class wine, stunning coastlines, and vibrant culture - the Rainbow Nation exceeded all expectations.
My Experience
South Africa blew my mind! This incredible country offers everything - from epic wildlife safaris in Kruger National Park to the stunning beauty of Cape Town's Table Mountain, from world-class wine estates in Stellenbosch to the dramatic Garden Route coastline.
I was completely captivated by the diversity. One day I'm watching lions and elephants on safari, the next I'm sipping wine overlooking vineyards, then diving with great white sharks, and exploring the vibrant streets of Cape Town. The scenery is breathtaking, the wildlife is abundant, and the people are incredibly warm.
South Africa is remarkably affordable for the quality of experiences you get. The mix of African, European, and Asian influences creates a unique culture and incredible food scene. It's a destination that truly has it all.
Must-See Places
Table Mountain
Table Mountain—an iconic flat-topped marvel that stands tall over Cape Town and is ranked as one of the oldest mountains on Earth. I couldn't resist conquering this epic climb, starting at the Platteklip Gorge trail. It's a thrilling 1.8 km trek that takes you straight up to 1050 meters above sea level. The best part of solo travel? You set your own pace, taking breaks whenever you need. Reaching the summit in just 1 hour and 4 minutes was such a rush, and my reward? A cold, locally brewed beer paired with breathtaking panoramic views. If hiking isn't your thing, take the Table Mountain cable car instead. Use the Hop-On Hop-Off bus which stops right at the cable car entrance. Bundle bookings for bus and cable car from around £34.
Paragliding
I can be quite the thrill-seeker, and during this trip, I just had to try paragliding off Signal Hill. The day was perfect for an adventure, and my instructor was incredibly knowledgeable about all the activities I could enjoy throughout the week. We took off with a breathtaking view of the city, the ocean, and the surrounding hills, spending the next 5-10 minutes soaking in the stunning sights of Cape Town. This experience was definitely a highlight of my trip, and I would do it again in a heartbeat. Setup takes around 20 minutes, whole activity lasts 1-1.5 hours. Prices start from £60-£70 depending on provider.
Cape Winelands
The Cape Winelands stands out as the largest wine-producing area in the country. It offers a fantastic opportunity to hear from experts about the production and global distribution of their local wines. This day tour was thrilling, allowing us to visit various wineries, including the renowned Stellenbosch and Franschhoek valleys. I took the time to truly appreciate the local wine estates, which reminded me of the unique spots in New Zealand, yet these locations had their own special charm. Pace yourself during tastings, savor the flavours, book tours in advance especially during peak season, and buy your favourite local wines to enjoy later as a reminder of your experience.
Aquila Private Game Reserve
One of the main reasons I was eager to visit South Africa was to experience its incredible wildlife. The Aquila Private Game Reserve was the perfect day trip for me as a solo traveller, offering the chance to search for the Big Five and other fascinating wildlife. I was fortunate enough to encounter lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and a variety of bird species during the safari. Set within 10,000 hectares of land and framed by the stunning Karoo Mountains, the reserve also offers breathtaking views. Game drives last 1-2 hours with stops to stretch. Half-day experience includes buffet lunch, round-trip transfers, and knowledgeable guides.
Unforgettable Moments
Table Mountain Hike - Platteklip Gorge
The Platteklip Gorge trail is a thrilling 1.8 km trek straight up to 1050 meters above sea level. Solo travel means you set your own pace with breaks whenever needed. My reward at the summit was a cold locally brewed beer with breathtaking panoramic views. If you're up for an adventurous challenge, this climb is an absolute must!
Book here →Wine Tasting Day Tour
Visit various wineries in the renowned Stellenbosch and Franschhoek valleys. The Cape Winelands is the largest wine-producing area in South Africa. Expert guidance helps you understand production and appreciate local wines. Tips: pace yourself, savor the flavours, and buy favourites to take home.
Book here →Safari at Aquila Game Reserve
Search for the Big Five and other fascinating wildlife across 10,000 hectares framed by the Karoo Mountains. I encountered lions, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, hippos, and various bird species. The half-day experience includes buffet lunch, round-trip transfers, and knowledgeable guides sharing fascinating insights.
Book here →Tips & Recommendations
Top Tips
- •Book tours in advance
- •Take an opportunity to explore the landscape
- •Be aware of your surroundings at night
Food Recommendations
- •Try locally brewed beer
- •Dont miss the buffett food opportunities
- •Wine Tours
What to Pack
- ✓Comfortable hiking shoes, camera for safari tours and sunscreen for hot days
Photo Gallery
Colourful Streets
Winery and Exploring
Hilltop Views
Paragliding Experience
Practical Information
Best Time to Visit
September to November (spring) and March to May (autumn) for great weather. Summer (December-February) is peak season - warm but crowded. June-August is winter - cooler but best for wildlife viewing (less vegetation). Cape Town: October-April. Kruger: May-September for dry season wildlife.
Budget
Very affordable! Excellent value for moneyGetting Around
Car rental essential for exploring - roads are good and driving is easy (left side). Uber available in major cities. Domestic flights between cities are affordable. For Kruger, you can self-drive or book guided safaris. Garden Route best explored by car.
Language
11 official languages! English widely spoken everywhere. Afrikaans also common. No language barrier for English speakers.
Currency & Costs
South African Rand (ZAR). Very affordable
Accommodation
Cape Town offers a variety of options. Having local guides or friends who know the area makes exploration easier and safer. Book in advance during peak tourist season.
My Rating
Would I return?
Absolutely!
South Africa is phenomenal! The combination of incredible wildlife, stunning natural beauty, world-class wine, vibrant culture, delicious food, and amazing value for money makes it one of my favorite destinations ever. I've only scratched the surface - I need to return to explore Drakensberg, the Wild Coast, and so much more. The Rainbow Nation truly lives up to its name!