South Africa

By huntley@escape4africa.com at August 24, 2010 | 11:01 am | Print

South Africa is dubbed the Rainbow Nation, a phrase coined by the inspirational Archbishop Desmund Tutu (or “The Arch” as he is lovingly referred too); but the land of contrasts is also an apt description as you do literally find it ALL when travelling through the country.

With 11 official languages and a past that we are trying to reconcile with, it makes for an exhilarating and complex country. The view of Africa portrayed by many is its relaxed attitude towards time and sense of urgency, as even described by Wikipedia. But a visit to Johannesburg for instance, will give you a feeling of an abundance of energy and a sense of progress about the country; something that the successful hosting of the recent Soccer World Cup can attest too.

The infrastructure is constantly improving (aided by the recent World Cup), the climate is kind and there are few better places to see Africa’s wildlife up close and personal. Travellers are returning to a remarkable land and I think it is mainly due to the fact that they find something completely different to what they expected; some of the best hotels, restaurants and lodges imaginable, but in some cases also truly African and rural – off the beaten track.

Tree top canopy tour

And to see both those faces of this beautiful country (rural and first world) one specific route manage to capture it really well; the 20 Day Accommodated Johannesburg to Cape Town Overland.

Other tour options on this route:

18 Day South Africa Overland Explorer

17 Day South African Rainbow Route

For those that are a bit more financially restricted there is a camping version running the reverse route.

20 Day South African Explorer Overland

15 Day Southern Explorer Overland (Cape to Johannesburg)