| 1. Hunt the Big Five |
We don’t actually mean hunting with weapons but with a camera. The goal of anyone on safari is to get photographs of the main large animals that roam the wilds of South Africa, the leopard, the elephant, lion, rhino and Cape buffalo. This is now made easier by the safari parks such as KwaZulu Natal that have developed over the years to cater for tourism. There’s no need to camp overnight if that doesn’t thrill you, instead day trips by jeep or bus will take you through the park and on your way to catching the big five.
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| 2. Go Whale Watching |
The cold waters off the Atlantic coast of South Africa are home to many species of whale or those passing through on their long journeys around the world. It’s often possible to spot the water spout of the whales from the shore but for a closer look take a boat trip out off the cape. It’s rare not to come back without a sighting and you’ll be talking about your encounter with these leviathans for years after.
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| 3. Visit Drakensberg National Park |
Part of the Drakensberg National Park, the Royal Natal National Park was opened in 1916, and contains some of the most spectacular scenery in Africa. The main feature of the park is the part called the Amphitheatre which is a rock wall about 5km in length, and approximately a kilometre in height. Here waterfalls plunge off the cliffs into the basin below and it was once called the Mont-aux-Sources, the mountain of sources as five rivers flow from here. In a land renowned for spectacular scenery it doesn’t get any more spectacular than this.
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| 4. Go on Safari |
Whilst it’s possible to see all the main wildlife on a day trip to a nature reserve, nothing beats actually going on safari and spending at least one night in the bush. At first you’ll think the cacophony of insects and animal cries will keep you awake but it has a strangely soothing effect. If possible, try to get on an after dark trip into the bush to watch nocturnal hunters finding their food.
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| 5. Visit a Township |
Synonymous with hardship but also hope, the townships were the scene of the the worst violence in the anti-apartheid struggles. Today they are peaceful places but still home to much of Cape Town’s population. Take a half or full day walking tour of a township and see all aspects of this different way of life for les fortunate South Africans. Some tour companies offer overnight stays which will give you a different view again on life in the townships.
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| 6. Cape Coast Wreck Diving |
Consistently some of the worst weather occurs around the Cape in autumn and winter and over the centuries this has accounted for hundreds of shipwrecks. The cold water with its level of salinity has meant that many of the wrecks are very well preserved making it the perfect destination for those fond of wreck dives. Many diving centres around Cape Town will advise you of the best ones to try depending on your ability and the time of year.
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| 7. Swim with Sharks |
Not everyone’s cup of tea but a definite adrenaline junkie’s dream. You’ll be lowered in a cage from a boat whilst the crew sling lumps of meat out into the sea. Within minutes hungry sharks will be circling, gobbling up the meat then take an interest in what’s behind the bars. Depending on how close and personal you want to be with them you’ll either stand back as they nuzzle the bars or eyeball them but just out of teeth’s reach. The cold, heartless stare of a shark’s eyes are something that will haunt you forever.
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| 8. South African Sport |
Probably second only to the Australians in terms of being sport mad, the South Africans are masters at the games they play. From rugby where they’re accredited in the top three world teams to cricket and, following the success of the World Cup 2010, keen now to get on top of the world of football. South Africans don’t just watch sport, they play it and the climate makes it perfect to get outdoors and get stuck in.
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| 9. Zululand |
Still a name to strike fear into the hearts of the British Army, the Zulu Wars of the 19th century were some of the hardest fought that Britain had to endure. The Zulu tribesmen are fearless hunters and warriors and when at the time of the British Empire they were presented with an unachievable ultimatum, the outcome was war which included several shocking defeats for the British including that at Isandlwana. Today it is a peaceful part of South Africa but with several memorials and small museums chronicling the unnecessary bloodshed from the time.
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| 10. Hike the Hoerikwaggo Trail |
For the serious walker, the Hoerikwaggo Trail offers five days of perfect walking country going from Table Mountain to Cape Point. The 60 mile trail can be broken into stages and tented accommodation is available along its length. All along the trail you’ll see the flora and fauna unique to this part of the world. The route is made up of a variety of landscapes and terrain, from mountain to cliff top to plains and forests. Although the trail is clearly marked it’s recommended a guide accompanies your group and for accommodation it’s always best to book ahead in advance.
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