What To See in South Africa

South Africa is a diverse and colorful country, full of a wide variety of destinations which are interesting and beautiful. People from many different cultures come to South Africa on holidays and just to shop. You'll see the local craftsmen offering items which echo the traditions of Africa or contemporary designs from the international world. South Africa is a multicultural place and you may detect the delightful smell of an Indian spice merchant while admiring the African women who carry packages effortlessly on their heads. Businessmen scurry by, staring intently into their Blackberries and dialing their cell phone on the way to their next corporate meeting. Yes, South Africa is a country of contrasts and has something to offer every traveler.

The cities of Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg are favorites of many travelers. The holiday season sees an influx of a large number of visitors to these unique cities. If you're looking to be seen with the popular crowd, be sure to stroll down Long Street in Cape Town. People watch while you snack at one of the many delicatessens which line the avenues. The variety of people you'll see will amaze and delight you. Rastafarians wander from cafe to cafe, offering their wares for sale alongside the rich and trendy in their designer clothes. Many examples of traditional dress are to be seen as proud African women saunter by, followed by shoeless hippies who seem to not have a care in the world.

Although not as busy as Cape Town, Durban has its own charms. The main streets of Smith and West Street are the central avenues taking you into the heart of this interesting city. Crowds fill the streets of Durban even on a typical work day while merchants call out and try to sell whatever you may wish to buy. Looking for a love potion? The Zulu witch doctor, also called a sangoma, has just the thing. Add a bottle of inexpensive but fragrant perfume to improve your chances of attracting that special person.

Johannesburg is better known for what lies outside its main center with its own variety of shops and social gathering spots. The rich and famous frequent the posh shops in Sandton and you'll find just the right outfit for your night on the town at one of the many dance clubs.

Costal Areas in South Africa

South Africa has a beautiful coastline and many visitors love to flock to the sandy and cool beaches available.

Cape Town, Camps Bay and Clifton are some of the many beaches which line the Atlantic seaside, and tourists are numerous here in the warm months. Don't miss a sunset from one of these beaches and take a drive to see the expansive views which will take your breath away. If you're looking for a more subdued area which showcases the natural beauty of the sea, try some of the less known beaches away from town. Just on the far side of the mountain you'll find Scarborough. The crowds are much less as there are no shops lining the beach. The West Coastal side has a wild feel and therefore less visitors, but are within an hour if you drive from the center of the city. They're definitely worth a visit for a memorial day.

The city beaches of Durban, such as KwaZulu-Natal, can be so busy you may consider avoiding them especially in the summer. So popular with the locals and tourist, the beaches here can become quickly crowded. Your best bet is to drive approximately 40 minutes to Umhlanga and Umhloti. These beaches have a natural and unspoiled atmosphere and are a delight for nature lovers. Explore tidal pools for small creatures who have come in with the tide, or relax on the warm sandy shore to soak in the sun. The water coming in from the Indian Ocean is warm and inviting, but does have dangerous currents that can catch the unaware. Lifeguards are always alert to trouble so you can feel safer under their watchful gaze

Safari to See The Big 5 Animals

The most popular wild animals for safari travelers are called the "Big 5". They are rhinos, lions, elephants, leopards and buffalo. Visit the Kruger National Park and sign up for a safari which is just like the travels taken by big game hunters in the old days but this time you'll be seeing the animals for their wild beauty. Just minutes by air from Johannesburg, the Kruger reserve is far enough from the city to feel completely wild. You're sure to see all the popular animals and more during your adventure.

Accommodations in the Kruger National Park are comfortable and luxurious, rated as 5 star. You'll live in the cool of air conditioned rooms while listening for the calls of the animals as evening approaches and animals prowl the grounds. Look carefully and you may see a giraffe or other wild creature strolling by.