For travelers wishing to explore South Africa on their own, a rental car is an excellent and exciting option. With a rental car, you have the flexibility to enjoy day trips at your leisure and journey through various areas of South Africa to absorb all of the wonderful elements this country has to offer, including the coastline, national parks, and game reserves.

Much of the populated areas of South Africa have paved roads, which makes it easy to get to your next destination without needing any Dramamine!

Important information about driving a rental car in South Africa:

• An international driver’s license is required to operate an automobile in South Africa.
• Cars do not drive on the right side of the road like in the U.S.; rather, they drive on the left side of the road.
• The driver’s seat is on the right side of the vehicle, with the passenger on the left side.
• Most automobiles in Africa are standard transmissions (stick shift). Although automatic rentals are available, they are difficult to come by and often cost more.
• SUVs and automatic vehicles should be reserved far in advance to ensure that you are equipped with a vehicle that fits your specific needs.

Some of the best driving routes include:

Cape Town through the Garden Route: Spanning from Heidelberg to the gorgeous Tsitsikamma Forest, the Garden Route is by far one of South Africa’s most precious gems.

On your charming journey through the Garden Route, which is characterized by dramatic cliffs, winding roads, and breathtaking ocean views, you’ll have the opportunity to stop in quaint villages to enjoy a bite to eat, while absorbing local culture.

You may also feel tempted to step outside your vehicle and enjoy a few hours on an uninhabited beach or in one of the Garden Route’s many famous bays. Or, perhaps you’ll feel more adventurous and want to park the car to go hiking through a wildflower field or lush forest. And if you are a photographer or painter, feel free to stop the car to enjoy some leisurely moments as you take some pictures or paint. You’ll find the Garden Route landscape to be an artist’s paradise.

Johannesburg to Kruger National Park: Start your African safari vacation off with a bang! Celebrated as one of the best game-viewing regions in all of Africa, Kruger National Park in South Africa is the perfect place to go after arriving at the Johannesburg airport. The drive from the Johannesburg airport to Kruger National Park is approximately 3 – 4 hours—but don’t worry, the drive goes by superfast. With sprawling farmlands, rolling hills, and quaint villages along the way, you’ll find picturesque views for the duration of your drive.

Once you arrive at the park, there are a variety of exceptional accommodations nearby, and you can also hire a private guide to take you through the park for a high-energy game drive. I strongly suggest planning your day out well in advance, by hiring a professional private guide prior to leaving for Africa and booking accommodations months before your departure.

Cape Town to Cape Winelands: A culture lover, foodie, and wine connoisseur’s dream destination, Cape Winelands is a charming region in South Africa that boasts rich cultural heritage, charming Dutch architecture, world-famous cuisine, and, of course, sensational wines. Roughly 45 minutes to an hour outside of Cape Town’s city center, Cape Winelands is the perfect driving distance for a leisurely day trip.

Covered with family-owned vineyards and century-old estates, Cape Winelands entrances visitors with its old-world charm. From quaint villages to historic monuments, sprawling orchards to rolling hills, and prominent mountains to enchanting forests, there is nothing ordinary about South Afric’a famous Winelands.

As you arrive in Cape Winelands via rental car, you can pop your head into some of the estates that you happen upon to relish in wine tastings, enjoy a picnic in the sprawling fields, or simply find relaxation and solitude on a nature walk.

Do you still have some unanswered questions about renting a car in South Africa? If so, ask us and we’d be delighted to get back to you!

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.

If you loved this post and want to learn more about Africa, follow us on Twitter.

We all have different reasons for seeking vacations. Some prefer to relax beachside in a motionless state, while others seek adventure and excitement. And then there are those people who are on a mission to explore and discover life’s hidden beauties and treasures. No matter the motivation behind your vacation, Africa is a continent that serves all desires, preferences, and personalities.

If you’re an individual who seeks vacations that embody relaxation, Africa might not come to mind as an option for your next trip. When you think of sitting on a beach, reading by the pool, or enjoying a quiet dinner for two beneath the stars, you might think of popular tropical locales such as the Caribbean, French Polynesia, and the British Virgin Islands. But what you might not realize is that Africa is one of the most relaxing destinations on earth. Whether you want to lay by your private plunge pool overlooking a game-rich watering hole, sleep and dine beneath the stars in a private bush den, experience a rejuvenating, nature-inspired spa treatment, or enjoy a leisurely horseback wine tasting tour in the majestic Cape Winelands, the options to completely unwind are truly endless.

Below are 5 of our favorite destinations in Africa that are perfect for relaxation:

Garden Route: It’s impossible not to melt into a state of sheer relaxation while visiting the Garden Route in South Africa. Comprised of majestic mountains, panoramic views, lush valleys full of wildflowers, lakes, forests, and miles upon miles of unspoiled white, powdery beaches, the Garden Route is a relaxation haven. Whether you want to lay by the ocean and soak in Africa’s brilliant sun rays, walk through fauna- and flora-rich valleys, fish in the many lakes, or enjoy a day of golfing, the Garden Route’s landscape ignites a sense of calmness within everyone who visits.

Cape Winelands: Home to acres upon acres of rolling hills and charming, family-owned wine estates and vineyards, it’s hard to argue that Cape Winelands isn’t the epitome of relaxation. With your first sight of sprawling vineyards, and your first sip of South African cabernet, your heart will melt with the feeling of comfort and warmth. After you’ve enjoyed a few wine tastings, read a book in one of the area’s manicured gardens, or enjoy a picnic in the camphor forest. This region is so relaxing that time seems to vanish and thoughts of responsibilities become a thing of the past.

Bazaruto Archipelago: Do you consider relaxation to be sipping a cocktail on a secluded beach as you stroll for seashells on the untouched shoreline? If so, then Bazaruto Archipelago is your heaven. Encrusted with pristine, white beaches, the islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago are perfect for individuals who choose destinations primarily for their beaches.

Particularly stunning and romantic is the archipelago’s private island, Medjumbe. As an unbelievable haven for aquatic and island dwelling creatures, this extremely exclusive island is your place to unwind and find serenity in the ocean breeze.

Zanzibar: Beach lovers and ocean enthusiasts find pure paradise in Zanzibar. From blissful afternoons on the beach to snorkeling above a colorful fish-covered reef, and fresh lobster dinners on your private balcony to walking through a trans-inducing vanilla plantation, Zanzibar is celebrated for its pure tranquility. And to take your mind and body into an even deeper state of relaxation, enjoy a rejuvenating massage and spa treatment in the privacy of your very own beach villa or bungalow.

Lion Sands Private Game Reserve: Famous for their Chalkley Treehouse, Lion Sands offers couples a private retreat that immediately induces relaxation upon entering. Nestled in a 500-year-old leadwood tree, the Chalkley Treehouse is lit by the subtle glow of 19th-century-style lanterns that encircle a linen-lined bush bed and dining area. At night, guests can listen to the soft rhythm of the bush and enjoy a candlelit dinner beneath the stars. It’s impossible not to find pure relaxation in a setting so isolated and luxurious.

The reserve also offers astronomy lessons for guests interested in hearing about the solar system’s place in African folklore. All you have to do is sit back and soak in the beauty of the night’s sky. What could be more relaxing? In addition, the reserve offers golf excursions, and features a luxurious, state-of-the-art spa.

Follow us on Twitter for more updates on Africa.

Perfect for travelers who want an even mixture of adventure and relaxation, this 10-day sample itinerary is designed to give you a better idea for what you could expect on an African safari vacation to the Serengeti and Garden Route.

10-Day Sample Itinerary for The Serengeti and The Garden Route:

Day 1: Your adventure begins.

Upon arrival to Tanzania’s Kilimanjaro airport, you will be greeted by a Hills of Africa representative who will escort you to the Rivertrees Country Inn.

Situated between Mount Kilimanjaro and Mount Meru, Rivertrees Country Inn emits a comforting aura through its traditional African hospitality, layout, design, and staff that welcomes guests with open arms to enjoy the luxuries of nature and comfortable living.

As you settle into your charming suite at the Rivertrees Country Inn, experience a sense of balance and rejuvenation before enjoying a delectable meal in Rivertrees’ quaint, country-style restaurant.

Image taken from Rivertrees Country Inn Website (http://www.rivertrees.com/)

Day 2 – 5: Follow the Great Migration.

After a comforting stay at the Rivertrees Country Inn, you’ll be escorted to the Arusha airport where you will take a flight to the Western Serengeti. Upon arrival, a Hills of Africa representative will greet you and bring you to the Serengeti Safari Camp. During your four-night stay at the Serengeti Safari Camp, you will witness one of the most spectacular wonders of the world, the great East African wildebeest migration.

Designed as a semi-nomadic camp, the Serengeti Safari Camp does not move while you are visiting. However, as the migration moves throughout the year, the camp will follow. This ensures that the camp remains close to the migration at all times.

During your safari tours, you will be provided with your own 4WD vehicle, and a private safari guide who will accommodate your every need and preferences. Therefore, your safari guide will customize your adventures so that they always cater to your desires.

It’s important to note that the camps at the Serengeti Safari Camp are built for luxury and convenience. With all necessary modern amenities at your fingertips, your tent is spacious, and equipped with a lavish bed and en-suite bathroom that contains a toilet and traditional bucket showers with both hot and cold water whenever you desire.

Screengrab taken from Serengeti Safari Camp website (http://www.serengeti-safari-camp.com/camp/accommodation.html)

Day 6: Set aside adventure for relaxation.

After an adventurous 4-days in the Serengeti, you will be driven back to the Arusha airport where you will take your next flight to Dar es Salaam. Here, a Hills of Africa agent will greet you and escort you to your next destination, the Kilimanjaro Kempinski Hotel.

Overlooking the harbor, the Kilimanjaro Kempinski Hotel provides you with the ultimate in luxury. Designed with sophistication and elegance, this refined hotel is the perfect place to retreat to after safari adventure in the Serengeti.

Day 7 – 8: Pass through the picturesque Garden Route.

After a delectable breakfast at the Kilimanjaro Kempinski Hotel, you will be driven back to the Dar es Salaam airport for your next adventure. Your next flight will take you to Port Elizabeth in South Africa where you will then drive to Lairds Lodge Country Estate. This gorgeous, 24-acre estate is situated in the center of South Africa’s breathtaking Garden Route.

During your 2-day stay at this exclusive country estate, enjoy easy access to world-renowned golf courses, stunning beaches, scenic hiking trails, and wildlife-abundant reserves.

Image taken from Lairds Lodge Country Estate website (http://www.lairdslodge.co.za/livinggardenroute.html)

Day 9: Explore De Hoop Nature Reserve.

Today, you will spend an exciting day in the Garden Route’s most lively nature reserve, De Hoop. As you explore the rolling sand dunes, Potberg Mountains, towering fynbos, and sea birds, you’ll begin to realize why the Garden Route is arguably South Africa’s most astonishing destination.

While exploring this one-of-a-kind nature reserve, you’ll also witness Cape mountain zebra, the endangered Cape vulture, red hartebeest, ostrich, baboon, and other spectacular wildlife.

You may also choose to spend part of your day mountain biking the pristine slopes of the area, snorkeling, hiking, or lounging at the beach.

After a full day of adventure, retreat to your relaxing suite in De Hoop Cottage before enjoying a delectable dinner.

Screengrab taken from De Hoop website (http://www.dehoopcollection.co.za/luxury_self_catering/7/vlei_cottages)

Day 10: Seaside living at its finest.

Situated on the towering Hermanus cliffs lies one of the Garden Route’s most luxurious accommodations—the Birkenhead House and Villa. Here, you merely have to peer off your balcony to witness whales breaking the sea surface in Walker Bay.

Today, you will enjoy a day lounging in front of Walker Bay before retreating to the Birkenhead Spa for one of their signature treatments.

When the day has passed you may enjoy a delightful seaside dinner at one of the areas seafood bistros or cafes before retiring to your plush bed for a good night’s rest.

Image taken from Birkenhead House and Villa website (http://www.birkenheadhouse.com/)

Day 11: Goodbye (for now)

Today you must say farewell to Africa. But you’ll be returning soon enough!

Plettenberg Bay

Choosing a destination for the family can be quite the ordeal. Is it a well-rounded location with a variety of things to do? Is it safe? Are there beaches nearby? Will the kids enjoy it? How are the accommodations?

Many times a compromise is necessary when choosing a family destination—but not in the Garden Route’s Plettenberg Bay.Whether you’re a beach lover, wildlife adventurist, an explorer at heart, a photography enthusiast, or love to fish, Plettenberg Bay has the fascinating ability to bring any passion to life.

With miles upon miles of sparkling beaches and coastline, estuaries, rocky peninsulas, magnificent mountains, and thick Fynbos forests, Plettenberg Bay is a giant melting pot of indigenous bird, animal, fish, flora, and reptile species.

But this area of the Garden Route is more than a wildlife sanctuary—it is a place rich with cultural heritage, unique learning experiences, and activities that the entire family can enjoy together. Whether your family enjoys the relaxing aspect of nature such as laying on the beach, or more physically-oriented activities such as hiking and touring, you’re sure to find a rewarding family experience in Plettenberg Bay.

Some of the area’s most famous family-oriented activities include:

South Africa tours

A trip to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary: As the world’s only free-roaming multispecies monkey sanctuary, Monkeyland is an exciting and interactive learning experience for all of its visitors—no matter their age. During your visit to Monkeyland, you can experience an intimate, one-hour walking safari with Monkeyland’s highly-knowledgeable game rangers and view a variety of primates from all around the world as well as a plethora of exotic bird species. Because these primates roam about the sanctuary completely free from cages, you have the opportunity to interact with these creatures without any barriers—a rare and highly-rewarding experience.In addition to a walking safari through the sanctuary, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and lunch amongst the primates. Monkeyland is a completely self-sustaining sanctuary that remains open thanks to tourists who visit the area.

South Africa tours

A trip to Elephant Sanctuary: The Elephant Sanctuary is an exceptional safe haven for young African elephants that are able to roam freely without any restraints or caging and are able to enjoy a safe and playful setting, free from environmental hazards. This unique setup allows sanctuary visitors to interact with these gentle giants as they get up-close and personal. The Elephant Sanctuary takes great pride in their family-oriented operation and their superior staff ensures you have the family affair of a lifetime. In addition to their commitment to pleasing visitors, the Elephant Sanctuary staff is equally devoted to ensuring all of the elephants are safe, happy, and well-taken care of.During your tour through the elephant sanctuary you will have the exclusive opportunity to not only interact with these extraordinary creatures, but also pet, feed, and walk trunk-in-hand with them.

South Africa tours

A walking tour: Thanks to an unspoiled coastline, intricate wetlands, and thriving forest systems your family can enjoy a wide spectrum of activities and learning experiences. A walking tour through this area of the Garden Route is extremely diverse and provides a rich learning experience to all. With a variety of walking trails to choose from throughout the Plettenberg Bay area, you have the opportunity to experience a plethora of differing eco-systems. Choose from mountain walking tours, forest hiking tours, the Tsitsikamma Trail, and more.

A favorite among wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and passionate beach goers, Hermanus in the Garden Route, South Africa is praised for its exceptional ability to accommodate for a variety of interests. Some of the region’s most famed characteristics include its wildlife-abundant hiking trails, exceptional whale watching, and stunning beachscape. Whether you love to sunbathe, relax by the ocean, walk, or hike, Hermanus has some of the best mountain trails and beaches in South Africa to satisfy any passion.

For the ultimate experience in Hermanus, the Birkenhead House and Villa is the premier accommodation for superior ocean and mountain views, exceptional activities, delectable international cuisine, and the finest interior décor and linens. Known for its remarkable ability to exceed the highest of expectations, the Birkenhead House and Villa is the absolute embodiment of luxury. Its location overlooking the ocean is the perfect place for you to observe southern right whales during your stay, relax by the infinity pool, or enjoy a blissful massage outdoors with the soothing sound of waves crashing in the background.

To the other side of the exquisite Birkenhead House and Villa lies spectacular mountains, interlaced with hiking and walking trails, that are perfect for observing Hermanus’ exceptional wildlife.

The walker and hiker: With indescribable birds-eye-views of Walker Bay and its surrounding mountainous coastline, hikers to Hermanus’ Fernkloof Nature Reserve are rewarded with the experience of a lifetime. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, than you will undoubtedly fall in love with not only the view at the top of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, but also the hike to the top. During your hike, you will see a wealth of indigenous birds, small game, exotic plant species, and fascinating wildlife. If you prefer a less physically challenging experience, one of the many walking trails along the mountains in Hermanus is the perfect way to view nature and the gorgeous Fynbos without the rapid heart rate and huffing and puffing.

The beach lover: Hermanus is just one of the many places in Garden Route that offers exquisite beaches. As a matter of fact, Hermanus’ Grotto beach is so beautiful that it was awarded the Blue Flag Status. Other beaches within walking distance of Birkenhead House include Voëlklip, and Kamma Bay. Whether you’re looking to soak in the sun, whale watch from the shore, enjoy a picnic, or play some paddle ball, Birkenhead House is dedicated to fulfilling your every need and desire—down to the very last detail.

The ocean enthusiast: If you simply cannot get enough of the ocean, than you’re in for a real treat at Birkenhead House. The terrace that juts out from the plateau that Birkenhead House sits atop has an infinity pool and luxurious white wicker chairs that melt into the ocean for a seamless view. As you relax on the terrace, you can easily view whales across the long coastline, which are prominent during the months of May to December—August being the birthing month. If you want to get up-close to these magnificent creatures, than an intimate voyage around Dyer Island is the perfect activity for you. Deep-sea fishing, whale tours, and shark cage diving are also activities offered by Birkenhead House and are absolutely splendid to take part in.

The complete relaxer: If you love to escape from the hustle and bustle of life, relax, soak in the beautiful scenery, and enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, than the Birkenhead House Spa is your ultimate escape. Featuring two rooms, the Lavender Room and the Cinnamon Room, you’re sure to find complete peace and serenity at the spa. The Lavender Room is designed to restore the balance of the senses with its soothing music, subtle scents of lavender, and trickling water in the background. The Cinnamon Room was also created to inspire complete relaxation and is filled with the sweet aroma of warming cinnamon. Spa treatments include aromatherapy, Swedish massages, hot-stone massages, reflexology, waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial treatments—to name a very few.

Whether you’re a hiker, walker, beach lover, ocean enthusiast, a complete relaxer, or anything in between, Hermanus’ Birkenhead House and Villa is a must-visit destination.

Imagine standing in the bush as you watch a 12,000 lb. mammal approach you without the restraint of a fence or cage. It would be exhilarating to say the least.

At the Elephant Sanctuary in Garden Route, South Africa, this situation is a reality. At the Elephant Sanctuary, you’ll not only be able to witness these creatures up-close, you will also have the opportunity to pet, feed, and walk with them trunk-in-hand. There is also the option to ride these magnificent creatures, which is a favorite among children and adults alike.

The staff members at the Elephant Sanctuary are completely dedicated to the safety, happiness, and well-being of the elephants and are equally committed to the enjoyment and learning experience guests have with the elephants. Because of their passion for guest and elephant happiness alike, staff at the Elephant Sanctuary takes great pride in their ability to foster relationships between elephants and humans.

The Elephant Sanctuary has three different locations including Plettenberg Bay, Hartbeespoort Dam, and Hazyview. All three locations provide excellent care for young African elephants that need a temporary home. Once the elephants become more independent, The Elephant Sanctuary will release the elephant into the wild.

During your visit to the Elephant Sanctuary, you have your pick of several different activities . . .

One-hour-trunk-in-hand elephant education program: This program is designed for all ages and is an excellent way to learn about elephant behavior and personalities from expert guides. You will also have the opportunity to pet, feed, and walk trunk-in-hand with these delightful animals.

Elephant-back ride: This includes the one-hour-trunk-in-hand elephant education program with the addition of a 15 minute elephant-back ride. Because there is no saddle between you and the elephant, you are able to have direct contact with the elephant and feel its natural movements beneath you.

Early morning elephant brush downs: During this program, you have the rare opportunity to interact with the elephants as they are groomed and brushed down as well as view their daily training and stimulation program. In addition to these wonderful activities, the early morning elephant brush down program also includes the one-hour-trunk-in-hand elephant education program.

Afternoon sundowner elephant experience: This program is the ultimate experience for visitors to the Elephant Sanctuary. The program includes all three of the above programs: the one-hour-trunk-in-hand elephant education program, the elephant-back ride, and the elephant brush down.

Share the love with your friends—tweet this post.

Antique Shopping: With history dating back to the 1600s, South Africa is filled with delightful antiques and artifacts from the home, and from times of apartheid, imprisonment, and war. Whether you’re looking to purchase an antique chair or an ancient relic, South Africa’s antique shops are full of spectacular cultural and historical heritage.

Birding Safari: Bird lovers find South Africa to be one of the greatest countries in all of Africa to observe an abundance of unique birdlife. Currently, South Africa has over 850 different species of bird, and many of those species are endemic to the area. The best time to enjoy South Africa’s birdlife is during the spring and summer time (September – March). From ostriches to bateleur eagles, and African penguins to Cape parrots, you’ll observe some of the most exotic birds in the entire world on a South African birding safari.

Cape Town: Home to some of Africa’s best restaurants, shopping, and tours, Cape Town, South Africa is a must-visit destination for travelers. Some of the many attractions throughout Cape Town include, Table Mountain, Port Elizabeth, museums, art exhibits, and Cavendish Square—to name a few.

Dive with the Sharks: In Gansbaai, an island off the coast of South Africa, there are a variety of shark dive safari providers and excursions to choose from—some including cages, photography opportunities, manta rays, hammerheads, tiger sharks, Great Whites, and more. If you’re not feeling as adventurous as those going into the water, a shark viewing safari from the comfort of a boat is also highly rewarding and adventurous.  

Elephant and Horseback Riding: Take a ride on the back an elephant and experience stunning views of Africa and wild game from 13 feet above ground, or enjoy a horseback safari through indescribably landscapes. A horseback riding safari and elephant safari are two of the greatest ways to get up-close to nature and run with herds. 

Franschhoek: Informally dubbed the “Food & Wine” capital of South Africa, Franschhoek’s historic French Huguenot Village is one of the most exceptional places in all of Africa to enjoy stunning countryside landscapes, experience exciting cultural affairs, dabble in wine tasting, explore charming bistros and boutiques, and observe classic Cape-Dutch architecture. 

Garden Route: With a chain of sprawling mountains, valleys of wildflowers, lakes, forests, and majestic beaches, Garden Route is the perfect destination for honeymooners and families alike. Whether you enjoy fishing, sun-bathing, water sports, birding, hiking, scenic tours, or cultural tours, Garden Route has it all. 

Hot Air Balloon Ride: Take a relaxing trip past jagged mountains and above plump treetops on a hot air balloon safari. Get a new perspective on South Africa’s diverse terrain as you glide through the air on this tranquil safari and enjoy fantastic photography opportunities.

Inkaba Body Balance: Experience this revolutionary and completely rejuvenating Inkaba massage therapy at the Serenite spa at L’Ermitage Franschhoek Chateau & Villas. This hands-on therapy is used to connect the body’s energy and create balance within. During this treatment, the entire body is stimulated—from the toes to the face.

Jardine: The contemporary and hip ambiance of the Jardine restaurant in Cape Town is one of the many reasons why the restaurant has landed a spot on South Africa’s prestigious Eat Out award list. Jardine boasts a delightful selection of fine African and Contemporary cuisine, such as tender duck confit, Chalmar beef fillet, and tantalizing desserts.

Kruger National Park: As the first wildlife reserve in southern Africa, Kruger National Park has made a name for itself as the premier place to observe the Big 5 on a South African family safari or honeymoon safari. Kruger and its adjacent private reserves are home to some of the most luxurious and exclusive lodges and camps in all of Africa, including Singita, Londolozi, and Mala Mala. 

Local Village Tours: Take a tour through one of South Africa’s many quaint and charming villages and discover interesting facts and stories about local cultures and history. During these tours, you’ll have the amazing opportunity to interact with the locals and learn about their lifestyle and cultural heritage.

Mpumalanga: Breaking free from traditional African safari tours, Mpumalanga, South Africa is a haven for people who love the outdoors. Whether you enjoy hiking, horseback riding, canoeing, historic site seeing, or water sports, Mpumalanga can accommodate your every desire.

It’s that time of year when you need to decide where your next family vacation is going to be. Don’t choose the traditional beach resort or overcrowded tourism destination. Choose to experience something completely different from the ordinary.

Unlike traditional five star hotels, accommodations offered by Hills of Africa Travel allow you to immerse yourself into the African culture and absorb the true feeling of Africa’s spirit, while staying in a comfortable and luxurious lodge. Hills of Africa Travel only partners with the best tourism companies to ensure you and your family have the trip of a lifetime in lodges that boast luxurious rooms, personal service, Africa’s unique spirit, lavish amenities, and unspoiled wilderness.

Top Ten Reasons Why an African Family Safari Trip Beats Any Other Vacation:

1. Personalized itineraries: Hills of Africa Travel’s customized African safari itineraries take you wherever you want to go and incorporate only activities you want to do. Each itinerary is tailored to every family’s individual needs and wildest desires. From the sprawling floodplains of the Okavango Delta in Botswana, to the remote islands of the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique, Hills of Africa Travel incorporates Africa’s most highly acclaimed destinations into clients’ personalized itineraries.

2. New flavors and cuisine: Africa’s accommodations and restaurants boast delicious local flavors and dishes, as well as international cuisine. Catering to every appetite, lodges, camps, and hotels, as well as many restaurants off of the reserves, offer both traditional African dishes and westernized dishes. Wet your appetite at one of Cape Town’s finest restaurants, or enjoy a delicious meal beneath the stars at one of South Africa’s premier accommodations such as Kensington Place in Cape Town, or Tswalu in the Kalahari. Dining beneath the stars is a magnificent way to enjoy delicious cuisine under Africa’s night sky and among the beauty of nature. Share a bottle of wine and exciting stories from the day and unwind before retreating back to your suite for a wonderful night’s sleep. The many famous chefs of Africa find creative ways to incorporate African flavors into traditional, world-renowned dishes, making dining experiences both enriching and unique.

3. Pristine beaches: Home to some of the world’s most secluded beaches it’s no wonder beach lovers visit Africa’s unspoiled coastline in search of absolute relaxation. Travel off the beaten path to the stunning, prehistoric beaches of the Makgadikgadi or venture to the pink beaches of Mozambique.

One of the most celebrated beach destinations in Africa is the Garden Route, which is home to stunning backdrops, sprawling white beaches, and magnificent wildlife. Africa’s unspoiled, secluded beaches are some of the most gorgeous beaches in the entire world and should not be missed while on an African safari vacation. Whether you enjoy breathing in the ocean’s salty sea breeze, diving, water sports, basking in the sun, or photography, you’ll love the golden beaches of Africa.

4. Immerse yourself in local cultures: Discover traditional crafts, values, rituals, geology, archaeology, and anthropology of the region as you travel to nearby villages. Knowledgeable guides provide you with spectacular details about the regions’ deeply rooted history of evolution and the origins of Africa’s most ancient areas. Whether visiting people of the Lozi culture in Liuwa National Park, or the Sans Tribe Busmen in Bostwana, you’ll enjoy an enriching and unforgettable learning experience. Uncover the traditional laws and systems of various cultures, and how these cultures utilize their natural resources. In addition, learn directly from ancestors about survival skills, hunting techniques, tribal weaponry, and the laws of nature.

5. Relaxation: Many accommodations throughout the southern regions of Africa offer spa services and relaxing amenities for those looking to take a break from adventurous activities. After a long day traveling across salt pans, sprawling grasslands, or visiting local villages—depending on where you stay—you can relax with a soothing game of golf, a spa visit, a sunset river cruise, or a swim in your lodge’s pool. If you’re a golf lover, Zimbabwe’s Malilangwe Wildlife Reserve and Victoria Falls offer excellent golf courses, as well as the Kalahari, which is known for its legendary Sishen Golf Course. For those who love the spa, you can retreat to complete relaxation and enjoy state-of-the-art treatments such as reflexology, Swedish massages, and body treatments in one of Africa’s celebrated spas. Some of Africa’s most highly acclaimed spas include the Singita Pamushana Spa in Zimbabwe, the Safari Spa in Victoria Falls, and Tswalu’s Sanctuary Spa in the Kalahari.  Many spas also offer revitalizing massages in the privacy of your own suite. Whatever spa service you choose, you’ll feel refreshed and prepared to take on your next adventure.

Don’t miss out on the family vacation of a lifetime. Contact Hills of Africa Travel today at (877) 845-4802 and let us create a personalized itinerary for you and your family. We’re looking forward to making your dreams come true . . .