South Africa: The destination for 2010

It’s the country where cosmopolitan cities, beautiful scenery, spectacular wildlife and unrivalled experiences come as standard – but it’s those authentic experiences and value for money that really make South Africa the trip of a lifetime.

Here at Thomson Tailormade our expert travel team are happy to tailor-make an itinerary to suit you...Don’t just go on safari, track the 'Big 5' on foot; don’t just drink a glass of vino, visit some of the world’s finest vineyards set in spectacular scenery; don’t just have a massage, have a spa treatment in the wilderness! Known as the ‘Rainbow Nation' South Africa really is the destination for 2010 where a warm and friendly welcome awaits!

Adventure

There is plenty of adventure waiting for you in South Africa. From hiking, township tours and horse riding, to high adrenalin bungee jumping and kloofing, South Africa really does have it all!

Widely considered to be the world’s best location for land based whale watching, each year nature lovers the world over visit magical Hermanus and its coastlines to view whales migrating from the icy waters of the Antarctic to warmer waters to give birth (May to Oct).

Just a few miles along the coast is Gansbaai, home to a dense population of the Great White Shark. Here, conservation specialists can take you to nearby Dyer Island, where you can view the sharks from the boat or, for the more adventurous, get up-close-and-personal in an underwater cage!

Tours are available from Cape Town or bookable locally from many of the hotels in the area. Spend a few days exploring from guesthouse, just a stones throw from the local beaches and a few minutes drive from the centre of Hermanus.

Wildlife

The Kruger National Park is one of Southern Africa’s greatest national parks, home to the ‘Big Five’ and offering a game experience like no other. On guided walks, game drives or even self-drives, visitors not only experience the wildlife in the area but also get the real bush experience. Starry skies, stunning sunsets and the most knowledgeable guides make this an experience of a lifetime.

We offer a diverse range of accommodation in Kruger National Park and in the adjacent Private Reserves for all budgets and preferences. We recommend in the Timbavati area; this tented camp offers luxury accommodation and fantastic game viewing in the middle of wild South Africa.

Stunning Scenery

South Africa’s Garden Route is one of the most stunning self-drive routes in the world. Cape Town fades away into the Karoo’s desert vistas, making way for the stark contrast of white beaches, relaxed coastal living and the lush rainforest of Tsitsikamma.

Our hotels and guest lodges along the Garden Route are specially chosen to ensure the perfect trip so take your time, soak up the scenery and let us help you create some memories.

Food and Wine

South Africa is fast becoming a ‘foodie’ heaven. The Western Capes’ wines are world renowned, oysters in Knysna are not to be missed, and the traditional braais (barbeques) in the bush all help to put South Africa firmly on the map. For the ultimate foodie experience, we recommend that you head to Franschhoek, the gourmet capital of South Africa. Located just 30 minutes from Cape Town, eight of South Africa's ‘Top 100’ restaurants located in Franschhoek, offering a mix of gourmet cuisine, fresh local produce and world class wines.

Spend a few nights exploring the wine route in Mont Rochelle, luxurious accommodation with the most stunning views across the vineyards and Franschhoek mountain range.

Culture

In addition to awe-inspiring landscapes, cosmopolitan cities, beautiful vineyards and amazing wildlife – the Rainbow Nation offers history and culture in abundance.

On our Walk to Freedom Tour trace the history of Cape Town and see the eclectic mix the city has to offer. The tour visits the culturally colourful Bo Kaap district, the famed Cape Flats and local townships and trip to – the former prison that held Nelson Mandela.

To really experience some historical luxury, spend a few nights at the glorious Mount Nelson. Built in 1899, and located at the base of Table Mountain, the hotels’ magnificent pink façade and stunning interiors is a colonial gem.