Reviewing Two Of South Africa"s Most Popular Travel Destinations
South Africa has a multitude of fantastic travel destinations but, in this article, the focus is on two only, namely the Kruger National Park and the Garden Route. South African tourism is growing rapidly and it's hardly surprising. The weather is near-perfect throughout the year, and there is a host of interesting places to see and people to meet. It is quickly becoming a firm favorite with visitors from abroad. Another bonus is that, because the South African Rand (ZAR) is currently weaker than the British pound, the US dollar, the Euro, plus other currencies, you can enjoy a really affordable vacation.
The beauty of the Garden Route has to be experienced to be believed. It comprises of a stretch of coastal area in the Cape Province that begins in Mossel Bay and finishes in Port Elizabeth city. Although the distance is only around 435 miles (700 km), you ideally need to take 10-14 days to really appreciate the experience. This region is so stunning that it has inspired many writers, musicians, and artists.
En route, you will marvel at fields of blooming flowers, awesome vistas, majestic mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and valleys. This is a genuine eco-paradise that is said to be unsurpassed in any other country. There are miles and miles of unspoiled sandy beaches and natural attractions like the incredible Cango Caves. This is indeed the richest botanical treasure in South Africa.
Stroll amongst gigantic trees like Yellowwood and Milkwood and immerse your soul in their beauty. In the months of July to December, the entire region springs to life with new blooms of indigenous flowers and plants like Tubers, Ericas, Vygies, Proteas, Bluebells, Aloes, and Pin-Cushions. Along the way, you'll definitely want to stay over for a couple of nights at certain places. Accommodation options are plentiful and include guest lodges, bed and breakfasts, cottages, plus caravan and camping sites.
Up northwards, in the province of Limpopo, you'll find the remarkable Kruger National Park. This offers the ultimate outdoor experience and spectacular game-viewing. The park stretches over more than 7,400 square miles (19,000 square kilometers) and you have every chance of seeing the Big Five. This is the collective name given to elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo. In addition to these, there are 147 other wildlife species.
You can drive through the park in your own vehicle, however first-time visitors are advised to take guided safari trips. Twelve of the park's main rest-camps have accommodation. Choices include tents, huts, bush camps, 2 and 3 bedroom cottages, or luxurious game lodges. All camps have access to public phones, a post office, a resident doctor, and banking facilities.
Get advice from an experienced travel agent if you plan to visit the Kruger National Park. Also, it may be necessary to book up to 12 months ahead. The climate is harsh with summers that are hot and humid, and winters that are dry and warm.
While this is certainly one of the premier South African travel destinations, foreign tourists may find the summer months too hot. Temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees C). Therefore, consider visiting in the winter season. Conditions will be a lot more comfortable, plus the opportunities of seeing wildlife are better because of the milder temperatures.
The beauty of the Garden Route has to be experienced to be believed. It comprises of a stretch of coastal area in the Cape Province that begins in Mossel Bay and finishes in Port Elizabeth city. Although the distance is only around 435 miles (700 km), you ideally need to take 10-14 days to really appreciate the experience. This region is so stunning that it has inspired many writers, musicians, and artists.
En route, you will marvel at fields of blooming flowers, awesome vistas, majestic mountains, forests, rivers, lakes, and valleys. This is a genuine eco-paradise that is said to be unsurpassed in any other country. There are miles and miles of unspoiled sandy beaches and natural attractions like the incredible Cango Caves. This is indeed the richest botanical treasure in South Africa.
Stroll amongst gigantic trees like Yellowwood and Milkwood and immerse your soul in their beauty. In the months of July to December, the entire region springs to life with new blooms of indigenous flowers and plants like Tubers, Ericas, Vygies, Proteas, Bluebells, Aloes, and Pin-Cushions. Along the way, you'll definitely want to stay over for a couple of nights at certain places. Accommodation options are plentiful and include guest lodges, bed and breakfasts, cottages, plus caravan and camping sites.
Up northwards, in the province of Limpopo, you'll find the remarkable Kruger National Park. This offers the ultimate outdoor experience and spectacular game-viewing. The park stretches over more than 7,400 square miles (19,000 square kilometers) and you have every chance of seeing the Big Five. This is the collective name given to elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo. In addition to these, there are 147 other wildlife species.
You can drive through the park in your own vehicle, however first-time visitors are advised to take guided safari trips. Twelve of the park's main rest-camps have accommodation. Choices include tents, huts, bush camps, 2 and 3 bedroom cottages, or luxurious game lodges. All camps have access to public phones, a post office, a resident doctor, and banking facilities.
Get advice from an experienced travel agent if you plan to visit the Kruger National Park. Also, it may be necessary to book up to 12 months ahead. The climate is harsh with summers that are hot and humid, and winters that are dry and warm.
While this is certainly one of the premier South African travel destinations, foreign tourists may find the summer months too hot. Temperatures can reach over 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees C). Therefore, consider visiting in the winter season. Conditions will be a lot more comfortable, plus the opportunities of seeing wildlife are better because of the milder temperatures.