ShareAll of us who love to travel and who believe in bucket lists probably have listed South Africa among the most desired of all destinations. In survey after survey, people who love exploring the world mention South Africa as a must-see place, which makes perfect sense. Here are just a few reasons why South Africa should be on your own bucket list right now! And don’t miss your chance to enter to win a free trip for two to South Africa on our Facebook page (now closed)!
#1: It’s affordable.
And do we ever prove that with our all new Taste of South Africa tour, with departures starting at only $1,899 including flights, it’s hard to dispute that this bucket list destination is within the reach of most world travelers.
#2: Natural beauty.
Just check out the slideshow we’ve put together for you, and you’ll see why South Africa is considered one of the most beautiful natural landscapes in the world. From Table Mountain, which offers breathtaking vistas of the city below from its vantage point, to the fertile plains and rivers, the beauty of this country is undeniable and unforgettable.
#3: Diversity.
There’s diversity in the population, with many ethnic and tribal groups offering a cacophony of languages, with 11 official languages spoken, and a rainbow of colors representing the rich mix of native and immigrant citizens.
#4: Wildlife.
On safari, you’ll meet the Big Five (lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, leopard and rhinoceros) up close and personal, plus more than 50 other species of mammals. But that’s not all. South Africa is home to more than 300 species of birds and multitudes of other flora and fauna.
#5: Struggle for freedom.
Almost everyone alive today knows the name of Nelson Mandela, who, together with other celebrated revolutionaries, overturned one of the most hated discriminatory systems in the world, apartheid, into a true democracy. You will truly be inspired.
Peggy,
My wife and I are looking to do an African Safari in 2014 and I’m having a hard time figuring out whether we should go to South Africa or Kenya/Tanzania. It seems most trips to South Africa are much less expensive than trips to the Serengeti, but we definitely want to see as many animals as possible.
Any advice?
I woul love to go to see the great migration!
Hi Tom, If the object of your trip is to see the maximum amount of wildlife, you want to visit Kenya and Tanzania. There’s no doubt that in these countries, the contact with animals is at its best. While there is plenty of wildlife in South Africa, the country is simply more developed, with more modern cities and some aspects of urban life in the mix. You would not want to miss Cape Town, for example, even though there is no actual safari component to this part of the trip. South Africa is less expensive than Kenya and Tanzania, for a very good reason. The bulk of your time in Kenya and Tanzania is in the “bush” and there is a tremendous amount of cost associated with getting the things you need (food, staff, electricity, clean water, etc.) to these remote camps. If you have the time and the money, and you want to see animals and have cultural experiences, Kenya and Tanzania are great choices. If you want a mix of people, city and wildlife, South Africa is your choice. The good thing is that in either destination, you will be delighted.