If you’ve ever traveled outside of your home country, you know that tipping guidelines vary everywhere. Many times, we don’t even think about tipping until we actually arrive to our destination—which can cause some unnecessary stress.

When traveling to Africa, it’s important to keep in mind that tipping is not necessary. However, if you have received exceptional service and would like to show your gratitude and appreciation through the form of a tip, here are some guidelines to keep in mind, no matter where you are in the African continent:

Individual camp, game lodge, hotel staff members, and accommodation safari guides: If you have been given excellent service by an accommodation staff member or guide, we suggest offering he / she a tip of $10 (U.S. dollars) per person per day. Therefore, if you are on an African family safari with 5 people in your party and stay at a lodge for 3 nights, you would tip the individual $150.

The safari camp / lodge staff as a whole: If there is no particular person that you wish to tip, but would like to tip the lodge or camp staff as a whole, we recommend a tip of $5 (U.S. dollars) per guest, per day. Be sure to specify that the tip should be distributed among all staff members.

The hotel staff as a whole: If you are staying at a hotel and would like to tip the housekeeping and hotel staff for your stay, we suggest $1 – $2 per day, per person.

Tour guides and transfer drivers: We recommend giving a transfer driver $2 (U.S. dollars) per person in your party. For half day tours, we suggest giving your guide $5 (U.S. dollars) per person. And full day tour guides can get $10 (U.S. dollars) per person in your party.

Restaurants: If you have received exceptional service at a restaurant, we recommend leaving a 10% tip, based on your bill / check.

For southern and eastern Africa, only, here are some tipping guidelines:

Tracking guides and mokoro (traditional canoe) paddlers: If you are embarking on a mokoro safari, we suggest giving the paddler $10 (U.S. dollars) per guest, per day, and the tracker $5 (U.S. dollars) per guest, per day.

Blue Train and Rovos Rail: It is recommended that your cabin attendant receive $20 (U.S. dollars) per person, per journey, and the waiter in the dining car $10 (U.S. dollars) per person, per journey.

For Central Africa, only, here are some tipping guidelines:

**Many of the activities you’ll be taking part in during a trip to Central Africa are different from those you would experience in southern and eastern Africa. Therefore, tipping does differ for certain activities.**

Gorilla trek porter: Your porter is the individual who will assist you in your hike and carry your bags. When tipping these individuals, we suggest $12 (U.S. dollars) per trek, per person.

Guides, trackers (typically 2 – 3 per group), and security personnel (typically 2 – 4 per group): For this entire trekking unit, we suggest $20 (U.S. dollars) per trek, per person. You may give the tip to the head guide and request that he distribute it to the other staff members who assisted in the trek.

Other guiding services: For other park guides and rangers, we recommend giving these individuals $5 (U.S. dollars) per person, per guided service.

It’s important to reiterate that tips are by no means required when in Africa. However, if you receive superior service, tips are more than welcome.

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The key to a great gift is the thought that goes into it. Although a nice sweater, watch, kitchen appliance, tie, or scarf makes for a fine gift, the gifts that really touch the receiver are the gifts from the heart. Just think of all the past gifts you’ve ever received. Which are the ones that you remember the most? Probably the ones that you feel a personal connection to.

So, if you’re tired of racking your brain for amazing, thoughtful gift ideas, look no further than our safari-inspired holiday gift guide:

Image to the left taken from www.grape.co.za.

South Africa Wine & Wine Accessories: South African wine can range anywhere from inexpensive to pricey, so staying within your budget with a South African wine gift shouldn’t be a problem. Whether the recipient loves bold reds or refreshing whites, most grocery stores and wine stores carry a variety of South Africa wines. At Hills of Africa, we often use World Premier Wines to ship our wine gifts, as they feature a great variety of South African wines, including Cederberg’s Bukettraube, Paul Cluver’s Seven Flags Pinot Noir, Jardin’s Nine Yards Chardonnay, The Winery of Good Hope’s Radford Dale Gravity, and more.

If you’re looking to send an accessory with your gift, be sure to include a copy of Platter’s South African Wine Guide 2012.

African Artwork: One of my favorite stores in all of Africa is Tribal Textiles, which is located in the rural village of Malimba in eastern Zambia. I have purchased numerous gifts for family and friends while visiting and have had the sheer pleasure of witnessing the surprise and love that each of my gift recipients experienced when opening these gifts. Specifically, Tribal Textiles produces hand-painted fabrics with traditional techniques, including bed linens, table clothes, wall hangings, bags, aprons, home accessories, and children’s room décor. Some of the popular prints include floral, animal print, tribal patterns, and even Christmas colors and designs. These gifts are great for all ages and can be purchased from anywhere in the world. Visit their website at http://www.tribaltextiles.co.zm/.

Image above of Tribal Textiles’ kids bedding taken from the Tribal Textiles website.

The Gift of Travel: The gift of travel is the ultimate way to touch your loved ones’ hearts. To me, experiences, memories, and joyful moments make our lives rich and fulfilled. No material gift can compete. So whether you’re looking for an unforgettable gift to give to your family or to your significant other, a trip to Africa will undoubtedly change your lives forever.

Make a Donation: For individuals who are interested in giving the gift of education, medical support, or community upliftment to those in need, making a financial contribution to a trusted African organization can change someone’s life this holiday season.

Below are some of our suggestions on the best foundations and organizations to donate to in Africa:

Camfed: Give the gift of education this holiday season by donating to Camfed (short for “Campaign for Female Education”), an organization that provides financial and educational support to women and girls in rural parts of Zimbabwe, Zambia, Ghana, Malawi, and Tanzania. Camfed’s stated mission is to fight both poverty and HIV / AIDS through education and other support structures (including microloans, scholarships, and leadership networks).

Abalimi Bezekhaya: Abalimi Bezekhaya means “the planters of the home,” and its mission is to teach communities the principles and practice of organic microfarming and gardening to become self-sustaining.

Abalimi aids families and community groups in planting their own vegetable gardens and creates jobs and commerce through its garden centers, which provide free advice, gardening tools, fertilizer, and seeds. Abalimi also trains 1,000 people each year through a basic organic vegetable-growing course.

Ol Malo Trust: The goal of the Ol Malo Trust is to allow the Samburu people to use current technology and methods to develop a high quality of life while empowering them to practice ancient traditions. This preservation includes helping the Samburu continue their time-honored values of respect, hospitality, compassion, and honesty—and to continue their nomadic lifestyle. The Trust supports educational and health issues in a way that honors the Samburu and avoids fostering dependency.

What will you be giving your loved ones this holiday season? We’d love to hear in our comments section.

Image above taken from Singita.com.

Below are some of the best accommodations in Africa to suit your needs:

Best Sustainable Accommodation: Singita Pamushana

Year after year we send travelers to Singita Pamushana and it always ends up being ranked as a favorite among our clients. Not only does this Zimbabwe-based boutique lodge promote sustainable travel and business practices, but it is also one of the most luxurious accommodations in all of Africa.

Proof of Sustainability: When travelers visit Pamushana, a portion of their safari and accommodation expenses are given to the Malilangwe Trust, which is a non-profit organization based in Zimbabwe that was established to perform environmental research and wildlife protection initiatives. In addition to environmental conservation, Singita Pamushana has also established a phenomenal community project that provides 23,000 local school children with a well-balanced and nutritious meal each school day.

Proof of Luxury: Incorporating the unique and peaceful elements of nature into its design, Singita Pamushana immerses guests into an atmosphere that exudes Africa’s energized spirit. Comprised of six lavish suites and one villa, Pamushana is a quaint lodge that provides visitors with a highly personalized and exclusive stay.

Best Child-Friendly Accommodation: Londolozi Founders Camp

Forego the family vacation to the Caribbean and, instead, choose a destination that is completely unique to any other place on earth—a place where the entire family can discover new cultures and discover what it truly means to connect with nature.

Although there are a variety of great family-friendly camps and lodges in South Africa, one of our favorites is Londolozi Founders Camp.

Image above taken from Londolozi.com.

Proof of Importance on Family: Not only is Londolozi family run, but it also operates off century-old family principles and values. Privately owned, Londolozi puts a great deal of its focus on conservation efforts, educational programs, and personalized and attentive service.

Londolozi is so dedicated to families and children that it has developed The Londolozi Cubs program, which brings little travelers into the bushveld to explore the beauty of Africa’s fascinating nature, and absorb the area’s unique culture, while developing friendships and leadership skills.

While parents are enjoying a game drive or a relaxing outdoor massage, the children can delight in playing with others and learning about the rich historical, cultural, and environmental elements of South Africa. Activities offered by The Londolozi Cubs program include candle making, baking, bird watching, bug catching, beading, drumming, fishing, and much more.

Note that Londolozi Founders Camp only accepts children who are at least four years old.

Proof of Luxury: From outdoor yoga to nature-inspired spa treatments, private game drives to first-class cuisine, and lavish chalet accommodations to 19^th-century-inspired décor, Londolozi Founders Camp is a family’s paradise. Nestled beneath the shade of ancient ebony and matumi trees, guests at the Founders Camp can enjoy picturesque views of the Sand River and relaxing evenings beneath the treetops.

Best Honeymoon Accommodation: North Island—Wilderness Collection

Arguably the world’s most romantic destination, Seychelles’ North Island sits right off the coast of East Africa and has recently been spotlighted in the news as the honeymoon destination for Prince William and Kate Middleton. If royalty is honeymooning there, you can be certain it’s not only romantic but also extremely remote and luxurious!

Image above taken from North-Island.com.

Proof of Romance: On Seychelles’ North Island is the charming Wilderness-Safaris’ North Island Lodge. Here, wearing shoes is voluntary, relaxing is mandatory, and romance is unavoidable. It’s paradise—in a nutshell.

This secluded island allows guests to find complete serenity on uninhabited beaches, nature walks, and beneath the ocean’s surface. Whether you wish to go scuba diving, snorkeling, ocean kayaking, mountain biking, or hiking, North Island Lodge is celebrated for its unique surrounding biodiversity that can be explored in a variety of exciting ways.

For a completely private ambiance, enjoy a private candlelit dinner for two on the beach or a relaxing evening with sundowners in your very own veranda.

Proof of Luxury: With 11 beautifully-crafted villas that sit right along the beach, North Island Lodge provides guests with instant access to the beach and spectacular views of the ocean. Each element of the lodge incorporates natural elements with contemporary elegance that provides visitors with a warming sense of comfort.

The lodge is also equipped with a sunset bar and restaurant, rim-flow pool, spa and gym, dive center, dining room, lavish lounge, and charming library.

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Below are 5 of the best ways to witness Africa as a family:

1. Victoria Falls: How amazing would it be to view one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World as a family? Well you can do just that when you visit Victoria Falls.

Known as “the smoke that thunders” by locals, Victoria Falls is more than twice the height of Niagara Falls. From adventurous white water rafting excursions to exciting nature tours and relaxing sunset cruises to delightful elephant-back safaris, Victoria Falls has something unique to offer each and every family that visits. Families can also enjoy private helicopter rides above the thundering falls, enjoying a panoramic view of the land that makes up and surrounds this fascinating natural phenomenon.

2. Philanthropic Cultural Tour: Your children can’t explore the world just by sitting in a classroom or watching primetime news. The real personal growth and learning happens outside of the classroom, when you immerse yourself into different cultures and environments.

Uthando’s Philanthropic Cultural Tours enable you and your family to discover unique cultures and witness the world from a completely different perspective. These tours expose you to conservation projects and community initiatives that work to bring hope and happiness to South Africa.

During these tours, you and your family will gets hands-on experience in projects such as Abalimi Bezekhaya—an urban agriculture program that provides education and resources for sustainable food production among the poverty-stricken individuals in Cape Town; Hout Bay Music Project—a project that works to provide impoverished children with musical skills and bring light to their lives; and the Volcano Arts Project—a program involving locals and children into community theater.

All of Uthando’s cultural tours are customizable, so you and your family can choose which projects you’d prefer to visit.

3. Cape Town: Arguably Africa’s best family-oriented destination, Cape Town, South Africa has some amazing activities, sights, and attractions for all ages. Whether your children are toddlers, teenagers, or young adults, you’re sure to find something that caters to your preferences!

If you wish to bring your toddlers or teenagers to Africa, you’ll definitely want to check out Ratanga Junction—an exciting theme park with more than 30 attractions and 23 rides. And after a fun-filled day in Ratanga Junction, enjoy an interactive African drum or dance lesson at the community center in Langa. During these lessons, you and your children will be able to interact with locals, and take part in and learn about their traditional music and dance culture.

Table Mountain is another Cape Town attraction, perfect for all ages. Enjoy a leisurely ride up the side of Table Mountain in a rotating cable car as you look down on the beautiful Mother City and search for dassies (furry gopher-like creatures that call the mountainside home).

Another great family-oriented attraction in Cape Town is Robben Island, which is famous for its rich history and its role in South Africa’s apartheid. You and your family can take a boat trip to Robben Island where you’ll learn about the island’s history as a leprosy colony centuries ago and as a jail for famous political leaders during the apartheid, including South Africa’s first president, Nelson Mandela.

4. Sans Bushmen Tour: Interacting with new cultures that are completely foreign to your own are some of the most rewarding experiences to be had. And what’s even more rewarding is sharing these adventures with your family. The Sans Bushmen tours in Botswana enable you to explore one of the world’s rarest and most fascinating cultures. During these tours, you and your family can enjoy a private experience with the Sans tribesmen, learning about their traditional lifestyle, survival techniques, artwork, and their inspirational view on Africa’s delicate wildernesses.

You’ll visit a local Sans village where you’ll be able to interact with the Sans people and observe their amazing language, which is comprised of a series of clicking sounds.

Start planning your African family safari now! Click here to receive our free report on “Your Guide to Southern & Eastern Africa.”

Whether you’re on an African honeymoon safari, celebrating your 30^th wedding anniversary, or need a break from the kids on your family safari vacation, the spas of southern Africa provide the perfect retreat for a little much-needed “me” time.

Below are 3 of the best spa and relaxation experiences to be had in southern Africa:

Image to the left taken from the Tswalu Kalahari website.

The Spa at Tswalu Kalahari: Winner of The Best Safari Spa Award in the Les Nouvelles Esthétiques 2011 Spa Awards, the Tswalu Kalahari spa is one of South Africa’s most celebrated spas. According to a recent press release from Tswalu Kalahari, the managing editor of Les Nouvelles Esthétiques, Dr. Nadine de Freitas, says “In judging the spas, we look for the personalised aspects in the spa visit, in addition to absolute attention to detail, impeccable spa standards and faultless service excellence, which all adds up to a spa experience which is beyond the client’s expectations.” And the Tswalu Kalahari spa undoubtedly fits each of these descriptions.

Recently renovated in both design and spa treatment selections, the Tswalu Kalahari spa is constantly working to enhance client experience. Currently, the spa offers a variety of specialty treatments, including the signature Tswalu touch experience, an aromatic candle massage, and a hot stone massage—just to name a few. The signature Tswalu touch experience, for example, immerses guests into a state of deep relaxation while rejuvenating and cleansing the skin. Specifically, guests can choose between a natural red dune sand or desert crystal exfoliation before they receive a Kalahari stone massage fusion—unique to Tswalu Kalahari.

Arabella Hotel & Spa: Recognized for its contemporary, yet tranquil, environment, the spa at Arabella Hotel & Spa reflects a unique fusion of relaxation, comfort, and pure luxury. This award-winning spa is primarily known for its lavish African Rainforest Experience treatment, which consists of “a two-hour sensory water and steam treatment using African products and inspired by African rains.” The spa at Arabella prides itself on its unsurpassed ability to bring both Eastern and Western therapeutic philosophies to life in all of its spa treatments. This is the perfect spa for those looking to find inner balance and restore their bodies’ nutrients.

Image above taken from the African Pride Hotels website.

Londolozi’s Granite Suites River Baths: Many of the luxury accommodations in southern Africa offer romantic outdoor bush bath experiences, but Londolozi’s Granite Suites arguably offers the best. This rejuvenating experience takes place in natural surroundings that overlook a quaint river bank, submerging guests into a state of complete relaxation. With the distant sounds of moving water, chirping birds, and the rustle of the ebony tree leaves, there is nothing more serene and rejuvenating than a Londolozi River Bath.

Are you thinking about planning an African safari vacation? If so, sign up to receive a copy of our Your Unique Guide to Southern & Eastern Africa PDF by entering your email address into the subscription box on the right hand sidebar.

Guest post written by Mark Homann, Hills of Africa Travel safari guide, safari consultant, and private safari guide

I recently guided two families through Botswana and South Africa on a three-week safari.

You can view the first parts of my adventures by clicking the links below:

Part I

Part II

Part III

Below is Part IV of out adventures:

We landed in the Kruger National Park area and drove to the Africa House at Royal Malewane in the Thornybush game reserve. Africa House is a special place for families and friends as you have your own house in the middle of the bush. A cold front followed us from Cape Town and we arrived in seasonal cold and wet weather. A little concerned that this would add a new unfavorable dynamic to our so far unsuccessful endeavor to find lions we set off the afternoon. It was not long before we were on their trail again, we followed their tracks for about a half hour along a dense river bank. We did eventually find them but our view was very obscured.

The next morning we woke to cloudy skies but we set off determined to get one over the lions, and that we did, along with 5 cheetah, leopard, white rhino, buffalo, and elephant!

From here, the game viewing and the weather only got better as we moved on to Singita Ebony for the last 4 nights of our safari. Singita’s wildlife was spectacular, producing lots of big game. Highlights were hyena with pups at a den site,  and a young lion trying to dig some creature out of an aardvark’s hole in the side of a termite mound. He had lost his pride during some inter-pride turmoil and he was skinny and hungry.

The most interesting was the 3 hours we sat with a leopard stalking a herd of impala. She painstakingly spent all this time getting herself into position, then seemed to fall asleep in some grass. Some of the impala walked right up to where she was lying, then moved off in the other direction and ran off. The leopard sat up 5 minutes later, looking very perplexed as to where her dinner had vanished to!

Our last morning safari ended with a herd of buffalo well over 500 animals strong, and another leopard for the drive home.

It is always sad to end a safari and say goodbye to people that you have shared so many memories with, but I leave on Thursday for the Serengeti, Victoria Falls and my old stomping grounds,  Zimbabwe’s South Eastern Lowveld–so the adventure continues…

What did you think of Mark’s adventures in the African bush? We’d love to hear your thoughts in our comments section!

Spanning nearly 100,000 hectares, the Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve in northern South Africa is a place where natural beauty is infinite. Globally recognized for its exclusivity, uninhabited surrounding wilderness, and a vision for conservation, Tswalu raises the bar for exceptional accommodations across the world. One of Tswalu’s most talked about accommodations is their private safari house, Tarkuni. Perfect for large groups and families, Tarkuni is the ultimate luxury wilderness retreat.

Not sure what the major differences are between private accommodations and a hotel or lodge? Visit our previous blog post, African Safari Houses and Private Villas vs. Hotels, Lodges, and Camps.

See below for details on Tswalu’s Tarkuni Safari House:

Location: Nestled between two sprawling mountain ranges, Tarkuni offers visitors a completely private and secluded experience amongst the natural surroundings of the Kalahari. Comprised of semi-arid grasslands, savannah plains, and the Korannaberg Mountains, the Kalahari is primarily known for its diverse eco-systems and impressive biodiversity.

Because much of the terrain is flat, guests to the Tswalu Kalahari Private Game Reserve can embark on adventurous safari tours including horseback riding, game drives, and walking safaris. On these excursions, participants will have the opportunity to witness a great variety of mammals such as buffalo, zebra, giraffe, gemsbok, cheetah, lion, meerkat, bat eared fox, honey badger, and even the rare white rhino.

Accommodations: Defined by its sophisticated design and comfortable ambiance, Tarkuni is the ideal retreat for groups and families looking to enjoy an extended vacation in the lap of luxury. With five opulent suites—each featuring its own en-suite facilities—Tarkuni can house up to 10 guests and ensures that each and every guest is treated as royalty. Each of the rooms is lavishly decorated with hints of the Kalahari, seen through various natural materials, textures, and colors.

Image above taken from the Tswalu website.

Image above taken from the Tswalu website.

Experience: Whether you wish to take an early morning game drive, delight in a breakfast in the bush, visit the meerkats, or explore the vast Kalahari on horseback, the opportunities for adventure are infinite. For those interested in a dash of culture, experience a walking safari to witness ancient Bushmen artwork and carvings that date back nearly 380,000 years ago.

For families or groups with children, Tswalu welcomes children with open arms and offers a variety of exceptional kid-friendly activities through its Tswalu’s Junior Ranger program. This exciting program includes a plethora of interactive activities such as archery, animal tracking, and horseback riding.

Features & Amenities: When you stay at the private Tarkuni safari house with your family or a group of friends, you receive a team of staff members who are solely dedicated to accommodating your group. Staff members include your very own host, chef, and safari guide, who are all dedicated to catering to your every wish and need.

When you’re not on safari, relax with a sundowner on the poolside deck or socialize about the day’s events next to one of the house’s two fireplaces.

Ever wonder what it would be like to embark on an African safari vacation? Visit our YouTube channel to gain a firsthand look into the wildernesses of Africa.

Below is our list of the top five things to see and do in Zimbabwe:

Hwange National Park: As Zimbabwe’s largest and arguably Africa’s best national park, Hwange National Park is an extremely diverse wilderness where visitors often spend days in order to soak in all that this vast region has to offer. Comprised primarily of savanna, scrubland, dispersed waterholes, and woodlands, Hwange National Park is often referred to as “Noah’s Ark” for its rich biodiversity. The area is also known for its large herds of buffalo, one of the biggest populations of wild dog in Africa, 400 species of bird, and a variety of fierce predators. We suggest visiting Hwange during the months of September through November when there are large populations of roan and sable antelope, and we also recommend booking a private guide for a highly exclusive experience.

Where to stay: Little Makalolo Camp

Canoe the Mighty Zambezi: Experience the beauty of Zimbabwe from a completely unique perspective on a canoe safari down the Zambezi River where you’ll have the opportunity to witness over 380 species of bird (many of which are endemic to the area), the Big Five, crocodile, and hippos. Unlike a traditional bumpy game drive, a canoe safari is a quiet and relaxing way to soak in the beauty of nature, while witnessing the heart of an untouched wilderness. As the main source of water for residential animals, the Zambezi River attracts hundreds of various species to its shores, making a canoe safari one of the most wildlife-dense activities to take part in.

Where to stay: Ruckomechi Camp

Visit Victoria Falls: As one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Victoria Falls is a geological phenomenon. The feeling of the ground as the falls plummet into a thundering cloud of mist and the sheer sight of this 360-foot spectacle, known by locals as “The Smoke that Thunders,” is truly indescribable. With tons of exciting activities to take part in, such as white water rafting, bungee jumping, hiking excursions, and helicopter tours, you’ll never be short of memories or epic stories to tell after visiting this world-renowned site.

Where to stay: Victoria Falls Hotel

Monde Village Tour: Discover the history of Victoria Falls and the local customs and traditions on a private tour through the Monde Village. During this tour, your private guide will take you into a local village to interact with the community and take a tour of a real-life African village to experience their daily life, which has changed very little in over century. The Monde Village Tour not only provides visitors with a deep insight into a new culture, but it also introduces the locals to new and exciting cultures from around the world. The tour is also celebrated for its inclusion of the local people in a real and beneficial manner. The Monde Community is a shareholder in the tour and the guides are local villagers.

Where to stay: Victoria Falls Hotel

Lake Kariba: Created by damming the Zambezi River, Lake Kariba is a vibrant sanctuary where fish eagles wild dog, elephant, lion, black rhino, and leopard find refuge. Best known for its game drives, fishing safaris, and canoe safaris, Lake Kariba offers nature-enthusiasts a unique perspective on the areas biodiversity and contrasting eco-systems. The area is also celebrated for its exceptional birding safaris where you can observe indigenous species such as the western banded snake-eagle, Lilian’s lovebird, African golden oriole, carmine bee-eater, Pel’s fishing-owl, and much more.

Where to stay: Bumi Hills Safari Lodge

What would you love to see or do in Zimbabwe?

One of the world’s most charming coastal routes, the Garden Route runs along the South African coastline in the Western Cape, and is speckled with wild flower fields, uninhabited white beaches, bays, harbors, mountains, and thick forests, making it a pure paradise for hikers and nature-lovers.

Below are a few things to see and do in the Garden Route that you won’t want to miss:

Cango Caves: One of South Africa’s top attractions, the Cango Caves contains huge stalagmite formations that date back hundreds of millions of years ago. Various tours are offered throughout Cango Caves, which range from low intensity to adventurous, bringing visitors through dripstone chambers and narrow tunnels with magnificent formations and structures. Some of the chambers visitors will pass through while on tours through the Cango Caves include Van Zyl’s Hall, Botha’s Hall, Rainbow Chamber, Bridal Chamber, Fairyland Chamber, and Drum Room.

Outdoor Activities: There is no shortage of exhilarating outdoor adventures to take part in while visiting the Garden Route. Home to world-renowned golf, fishing, hiking areas, wildlife sanctuaries, and towering cliffs, the Garden Route’s natural surroundings are a playground for adventure and nature lovers.

For golf-junkies, the Links at Fancourt is one of South Africa’s finest and most prestigious golf courses. Not only does the course’s unique design provide great challenges to golfers, but it is also one of the world’s most beautiful courses.

And for hikers, nearly every inch of the Garden Route is ideal for exploring.

Beaches: Each of the Garden Route’s beaches offers much more than a great day soaking in the sun. Visitors find unique cultural, dining, and historical scenes at almost every one of the Garden Route’s beaches. Some of the area’s most celebrated beaches include Mossel Bay, Plettenberg Bay, The Wilderness Beach, and Port Elizabeth. The unique thing about all of the Garden Route’s beaches is that each one differs from the next.

Mossel Bay is famous for its water sports, aquarium, and maritime museum, while Plettenberg Bay is most noted for its astonishing mountainous surroundings. The Wilderness Beach, on the other hand, is comprised of rugged terrain, serrated mountains, and frothy, crashing waves. And, as for Port Elizabeth, visitors will find great delight in this seaport village’s gorgeous beaches, shopping districts, and palette-pleasing eateries.

Bird Watching: Soak in the natural surroundings of the Tsitsikamma National Park as you search for perched birds and small forest-dwelling creatures. This protected area offers some of the best bird viewing opportunities and is a must-visit destination for nature-enthusiasts and individuals seeking sanctuary.

As one of the top birding destinations in the world, South Africa is home to a vast number of endemic bird species. Some of these endemic bird species can be found throughout the Garden Route region, and include the orange-breasted sunbird, Cape sugarbird, Cape siskin, Cape rockjumper, and Cape penduline tit—to name a few.

For a real treat, visit the town of Oudtshoorn to witness the largest ostrich population on the planet!

Image taken by one of our clients, Gary Harwyn

Scenic Drives: At the start of the Garden Route lies the quaint town of George, where picturesque views of the Outenique Mountains and vast green landscapes stretch as far as the eye can see. The Garden Route continues on through picturesque villages, Heidelberg, the Tsitsikamma Forest, and Storms River—all areas offering something new and inspirational for visitors. Driving along this stretch of road is a great way to explore towering cliffs, dramatic scenery, and South Africa countryside.

And don’t forget to check out Swartberg Pass, which is an unpaved road that will take you up to the Swartberg Mountains for some of the most awe-inspiring views of the Karoo region.

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According to TripAdvisor’s 2011 Travellers’ Choice Destination Awards, Cape Town, South Africa, is number one of the world’s top 10 destinations to visit. What’s so wonderful about this honorary award is that the awards were decided by millions of travelers from all around the world.

In an article on prnewswire.co.uk, Emma O’Boyle, a spokesperson for TripAdvisor, says “Cape Town is clearly the destination to beat . . . With beautiful scenery, great wine and gorgeous weather, it’s easy to see why Cape Town, which also played host to last year’s World Cup, has topped this year’s list.”

Other countries that ranked in the world’s top 10 destinations included Sydney, Australia; Machu Picchu, Peru; Paris, France; Rio de Janeiro, Brazil; New York City, USA; Rome, Italy; London, UK; Barcelona, Spain; and Hong Kong.

In light of this award, I’ve highlighted 10 of the top activities to take part in while visiting Cape Town, South Africa:

1. Embark on the Mother City Tour. This tour will take you through many of Cape Town’s most historically significant villages, as well as the famous Camps Bay, Hout Bay, Simon’s Town, and Kalk Bay.

2. Visit the penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Here, adorably plump Africa penguins waddle around their natural habitat as they enjoy the serenity of the beach. When you visit Boulders, you’ll have the opportunity to witness thousands of penguins up-close and personal, and, if you’re feeling frisky, take a dip with the penguins!

3. Enjoy delectable South Africa wines at the famous Constantia Valley and Cape Point Vineyards. Both locations offer superb wine tastings where you’ll be able to sample the region’s premier white wines.

4. Find tranquility in the breathtaking Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Here, you’ll find nearly 528 hectares of cultivated gardens, bursting with delicate and pungent flowers. Some of the flowers you’ll see include blooming proteas, ericas, berry heath, and much more.

5. Board a boat tour to Hout Bay to witness the residential Cape fur seals. No matter your age, witnessing this furry colony of seals will immediately warm your heart.

6. Shop and dine at V & A Waterfront. As one of the most cultural-rich places to see in Cape Town, this working harbor features five-star restaurants, historical monuments, and world-famous shopping hubs.

7. Discover traditional South Africa cuisine on a Cape Malay cooking tour.

Relish in fresh seafood at Beluga Restaurant. Serving up some of the best seafood and sushi in town, Beluga Restaurant is a must-visit hot spot for seafood lovers.

8. Venture to Robben Island for an unforgettable tour filled with culture and riveting history. Beginning in the 1600s, this island’s primary purpose has been to imprison political figures and criminals. One of the island’s most well-known prisoner was Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first president.

9. Immerse yourself into the local community projects on an Uthando Philanthropic Tour. Uthando’s cultural tours take you deep inside the local cultures of South Africa to discover a new way of life and gain a unique insight into areas of Africa outside of the bush and savannah plains.

10. Whale watch from False Bay. As you enjoy delectable seafood at one of False Bay’s seaside restaurants, keep an eye out for whales, which offer some of the most spectacular photography opportunities.

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