Mini Travel Guides

South Africa is a quickly developing region, with broadband connectivity growing fast and providing residents and visitors to the area access to the World Wide Web, which is relatively new to them. One of the best of South Africa is its stock exchange market which is among the top in the world, its economy and development has been steadily growing since 1999.

South Africa is rich in natural resources, including mineral and metal resources. It is rich in gold and diamonds. The region is also considered the powerhouse of Africa, as it is responsible for providing more than half of the country’s electricity needs. It is also a leader in developing sustainable methods for conserving its natural resources through environmental policies and sustainable development practices.

The region is also a large exporter of farming products, as agriculture is one of its largest industries. Wine is one of its most important exports, along with fruits such as grapes, peaches, citrus fruits, among others. Other agricultural exports include maize, sugarcane, beef, wheat, and vegetable products.

Tourism

South Africa has been voted as one of the top five best destinations in the world. Tourism is one aspect of its economy that brings in profit for the region. Many factors attribute to this, including its scenery, the quality of hotels and spas available, its game reserves, the rich culture, as well as its wines.

There are many things to do to keep you entertained. There is a lot to explore, and a lot to see, especially the wildlife. For the adventurous tourist, you can check out the off road and 4×4 trails, wildlife safaris, game reserves, rock climbing, and even diving, skydiving, parachuting, river rafting, and ocean adventures. For those seeking more relaxing activities, there is bird watching, you can check out the cultural villages and shows, horseback riding, fishing, play golf, and check out the local arts and crafts scene.

Accommodation in South Africa

For the travelers and tourists, there are many choices of accommodation in South Africa. You can choose to stay in areas closest to the activities you want to do, as South Africa is large, with a lot to offer.

Western Cape

- Kleinmord Panorama Apartments

- Stellenbosch Holiday Rental

- Mossel Bay Hartenbos Mosselbai

- 13 Theresa Avenue

- Villa 54

- Villa Atlantica

- Cape View Clifton

- Christine’s Beach Cottage

- Wedgewood Guest Farm

- Cactus Lodge

- Witoogie Beach House

Eastern Cape

- Port St. John Self Catering Accommodation

- Rhodes Villas and Holiday Houses

- Sunset Cottage

- Houtbosch Bay No. 20

- Paterson Villas and Holiday Houses

Free State

- Oranje Guest Farm

- Pumula Guest Farm

- Caledon Gardens Guesthouse

- Cottage Pie Bed and Breakfast

- Brookside House

- Wynott Country House

- Bella Rosa Guest House

These are just some of the places you can stay in South Africa. Come and explore the best culture of South Africa and see the many things you can do! Enjoy you stay.

In some ways South Africa is different from the rest of Africa as there is less poverty and strife here. South Africa is home to some of the most spectacular game reserves and landscapes. Considered as the adventure capital of the world, South Africa offers many pleasures from the Gold Reef city in Johannesburg to hiking across the scenic route of N12.

It is known as the rainbow nation and has a diverse range of activities to offer and places to see. One of the most popular destinations in South Africa is the Kruger National Park, which is the icon of African Safari.

The Kruger National park is home to several lion prides, herds of wild elephants and thousands of other small and bid animals and birds. From spotting the elusive leopard at Sabi Sands to watching the lion pride enjoy a meal in the Mala Mala, this national park is one fairy tale ride. The Sun City and the Garden route are two attractions that you can afford to miss. The garden route is a natural theme park that is home to Dolphins and whales and if you are lucky enough, you might end up with a pearl of your own.

Why Volunteer In South Africa

South Africa lies deep in a myriad of colors that vary from the different cultures to the different flora and fauna that lies in the heart of this magnificent country.

Types Of Projects Available in South Africa

As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will get to choose the kind of project you are interested in. The different types if projects available include:

- Wild Coast wildlife conservation project: This is one of a kind project, which will bring out the best in you. As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will be surrounded by the stunning and awe-inspiring wild coast that stretches from Durban to East London. Situated in the Transkei homeland, it has some dramatic coastlines and will including working at the base camp as well as on the field. The age requirement for this project varies from 18-40 years.

As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will get different opportunities to work with wildlife under this project. You will get the opportunity to learn about the South African big cats and other wildlife during your stay. The different activities that you will be involved with as a part of volunteering in South Africa includes:

1. Patrolling the fence and looking for and removing snares and any other threat to the wildlife. Also assist in fence management as well as maintenance.

2. Assist in removing any alien vegetation and help towards controlling soil erosion

3. Wildlife research as well as monitoring their activity

4. Interaction with the locals and other monitoring activity of elephants

5. Working at the rearing centre for lion cubs

6. Attending as well as giving lectures on environmental issues and wildlife management

7. Participating in bush walks and taking game drives to help in identification of different species and interpreting their behaviors.

8. Assisting in cultivation of indigenous plants in a nursery. These plants will later on be used for rehabilitating the erosion sites.

9. Creating a catalogue of birds by monitoring their activity, breeding and behaviors.

- Wildlife Research and Rehabilitation: As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will be handling different wildlife research activities. You will be assisting field supervisors in the following:

1. Capturing of wild animals for collar tags and releasing them in the wild.

2. Observing complex procedures done on wild animals especially if they are injured

3. Grooming horses

4. Rehabilitation work on various animals including lions and cheetahs

5. Learning the coastal systems as well as the ecology and developing an understanding of the coastal dynamics

6. Assisting other volunteers and staff on various local community projects

7. Working with experienced staff in wildlife identification and identifying behavioral changes

Volunteer in South Africa Requirements

Age: The minimum age for volunteering in South Africa should be 18 or older.

Volunteer in South Africa Fee and Other details

There is a fee attached to each of the projects that you volunteer for. The fee is charged in advance and is charged for the following:

1. Accommodation

2. Emergency evacuation services

3. Food/meals

4. Travel insurance

5. Transportation within the region

6. Emergency support

7. All types of training material

8. Supervision by local staff

9. Orientation on arrival

10. Local sightseeing & recreational activities

Conclusion

South Africa is one of the magnificent countries in Africa that has abundance of flora and fauna. Volunteering in South Africa will provide you with limitless opportunities and it will be highly rewarding experience.

In some ways South Africa is different from the rest of Africa as there is less poverty and strife here. South Africa is home to some of the most spectacular game reserves and landscapes. Considered as the adventure capital of the world, South Africa offers many pleasures from the Gold Reef city in Johannesburg to hiking across the scenic route of N12. It is known as the rainbow nation and has a diverse range of activities to offer and places to see. One of the most popular destinations in South Africa is the Kruger National Park, which is the icon of African Safari. The Kruger National park is home to several lion prides, herds of wild elephants and thousands of other small and bid animals and birds. From spotting the elusive leopard at Sabi Sands to watching the lion pride enjoy a meal in the Mala Mala, this national park is one fairy tale ride. The Sun City and the Garden route are two attractions that you can afford to miss. The garden route is a natural theme park that is home to Dolphins and whales and if you are lucky enough, you might end up with a pearl of your own.

Why Volunteer In South Africa

South Africa lies deep in a myriad of colors that vary from the different cultures to the different flora and fauna that lies in the heart of this magnificent country.

Types Of Projects Available

As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will get to choose the kind of project you are interested in. The different types if projects available include:

• Wild Coast wildlife conservation project: This is one of a kind project, which will bring out the best in you. As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will be surrounded by the stunning and awe-inspiring wild coast that stretches from Durban to East London. Situated in the Transkei homeland, it has some dramatic coastlines and will including working at the base camp as well as on the field. The age requirement for this project varies from 18-40 years. As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will get different opportunities to work with wildlife under this project. You will get the opportunity to learn about the South African big cats and other wildlife during your stay. The different activities that you will be involved with as a part of volunteering in South Africa includes:

1. Patrolling the fence and looking for and removing snares and any other threat to the wildlife. Also assist in fence management as well as maintenance.

2. Assist in removing any alien vegetation and help towards controlling soil erosion

3. Wildlife research as well as monitoring their activity

4. Interaction with the locals and other monitoring activity of elephants

5. Working at the rearing centre for lion cubs

6. Attending as well as giving lectures on environmental issues and wildlife management

7. Participating in bush walks and taking game drives to help in identification of different species and interpreting their behaviors.

8. Assisting in cultivation of indigenous plants in a nursery. These plants will later on be used for rehabilitating the erosion sites.

9. Creating a catalogue of birds by monitoring their activity, breeding and behaviors.

• Wildlife Research and Rehabilitation: As a part of volunteering in South Africa, you will be handling different wildlife research activities. You will be assisting field supervisors in the following:

1. Capturing of wild animals for collar tags and releasing them in the wild.

2. Observing complex procedures done on wild animals especially if they are injured

3. Grooming horses

4. Rehabilitation work on various animals
including lions and cheetahs

5. Learning the coastal systems as well as the ecology and developing an understanding of the coastal dynamics

6. Assisting other volunteers and staff on various local community projects

7. Working with experienced staff in wildlife identification and identifying behavioral changes

Volunteer Requirements

Age: The minimum age for volunteering in South Africa should be 18 or older.

Fee and Other details

There is a fee attached to each of the projects that you volunteer for. The fee is charged in advance and is charged for the following:

1. Accommodation

2. Emergency evacuation services    

3. Food/meals

4. Travel insurance

5. Transportation within the region

6. Emergency support

7. All types of training material

8. Supervision by local staff

9. Orientation on arrival

10. Local sightseeing & recreational activities

Conclusion
South Africa is one of the magnificent countries in Africa that has abundance of flora and fauna. Volunteering in South Africa will provide you with limitless opportunities and it will be highly rewarding experience.

So, you have done the vacation thing – winters in the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, summers in Europe, spring holidays spent on the sun warmed beaches of South America – and now you are wondering just what is left in the way of a holiday destination. And anyone tired of more traditional vacations or for anyone seeking thrills and adventure – not to mention excitement and exotic culture – should be a holiday safari in the lush, beautiful wilds of Africa.

People automatically think of animals when they hear the word “safari,” and while animals are certainly a large and interesting part of any Safari in Africa, they are by no means the only part.

There are a wide variety of activities offered in most holiday safari packages. There are riding and walking tours, during which visitors can see not only game but also breathtaking scenery and depending on the region of Africa, motorboat tours, canoe trips and the self drive itineraries can ensure you get to unearth the hidden Africa.

Visit local tribes and Bushmen, learn about customs and cultures, and take part in game drives and hikes, which are a staple when on Safari.

Observing animals in their natural habitat is a tradition among holiday safaris in Africa and instead of asking what kind of animals you should expect to see on an African safari. A better question would be to question which can you might not expect to see! The Big Five, referring to leopards, lions, elephants, buffalo, and rhinoceroses, can almost always be found, drinking from watering holes, lounging the heat of the day away, or hunting food (or prey, as the case may be), but they are by no means the only animals you can see. And again, depending on the region of Africa where the safari takes place, visitors can enjoy a diverse range of birds and not to mention giraffes, gazelles, wildebeests, and alligators.

In between all of these exciting, adventurous activities, there is also ample time for rest and relaxation, whether it be reading or napping through the balmy heat of midday or taking leisurely tours through the bush. And after a long day, there is no greater retreat than to enjoy the beautiful African sunset, while looking onto the breathtaking countryside. So experience the raw, primal world of nature for yourself and learn about the rich local cultures and customs by booking your own Safari holiday in Africa, which is sure to offer something for everyone.

So, you have done the vacation thing – winters in the Caribbean or the Mediterranean, summers in Europe, spring holidays spent on the sun warmed beaches of South America – and now you are wondering just what is left in the way of a holiday destination. And anyone tired of more traditional vacations or for anyone seeking thrills and adventure – not to mention excitement and exotic culture – should be a holiday safari in the lush, beautiful wilds of Africa. You just have to decide, when and where to take the first step.

Product Description
“Traversa” is a fascinating account of the hardships and hilarity Fran Sandham experienced during his epic solo journey on foot across Africa, from the Skeleton Coast to the Indian Ocean through Namibia, Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania. Inspired by the legendary crossings of the great explorers, Sandham left the daily grind of London to undertake an extraordinary adventure. “Traversa” describes his brushes with danger in the form of lions and snakes, land mines and band… More >>

Traversa

The world’s strangest and most dramatic landscapes….nature’s richest treasure chest of gold and diamonds…a unique wealth of animal and plant life…a kaleidoscope of exotic, sun-blessed people,,,,can there by a land anywhere else on earth more enticing for the traveler than South Africa?

Nature’s tools of creation – the wind, sun, ice and rain – have worked a special magic.  controlled by the cold Benquela Current on the west and the warm Mozambique Current on the east, the climate has sculptured extremes of deserts, savannahs, snow-covered mountains, grasslands, high forests and tropical mangrove swamps.  Within these climatic zones earth’s most diverse plant population flourished.  In the deserts are drought-resistant plants and in the swamplands are mangroves with their roots deep in mud and water.  These are baobabs, acacia trees, brilliant seasonal spectacles such as the musasa trees in the spring and the barlika vines of autumn.
The land, too, is the home of big game, hosts of birds as varied as the vast range of habitats and foods which nature has prepared for them.

Southern Africa has the biggest and most varied game sanctuaries in the world – protected and untamed areas where animals of every kind and description roam free, as savage and beautiful as they were in the beginning of time.

Gold, diamonds, copper, chrome, lead, tin, coal – only some of the abundant riches mined from the vast treasure houses of Southern Africa.  Minerals of every kind to meet the insatiable demands of the world all around us.

South Africa is a land of Sunshine – places for all seasons – a year-round playground in which to enjoy the great outdoors.  South Africa has thousands of kilometers of unspoilt countryside, deserts, mountains, canyons and rivers – all blessed by the sun.
Life giving water falls steadily during the summer months into the cupped catchment areas.  Hail is not uncommon in certain regions.. Winter rainfall is soft and steady.  Winds are generally mild except along the Cape coasts.

Journey from the present into the past.  In Southern Africa are people, emerging from another age, still observing ancient customs and traditions.  The tribes, languages, cultures and customs all form a kaleidoscope of colourful contrast.

A bird’s eye view of South Africa  – scenic magnificence beneath a beneficent sun.  This is an exhilarating land of fertile plants, towering mountains and tropical splendour lying wedged between foaming shores of two oceans. South Africa. – The most exciting area for any tourist, game hunter, traveling safaris or bird lovers -  all in one compact region.  Any travelers dream.

Product Description
“DK Eyewitness Top 10 Cape Town & the Winelands” will lead you straight to the best attractions that this vibrant region has to offer. Whether you are looking for thrilling wildlife experiences, the most outstanding wine estates or the most beautiful beaches, this guide is the perfect pocket-sized companion. Rely on dozens of Top 10 lists – from the Top 10 adventure activities to the Top 10 ways to experience and encounter wildlife and, to save you time and money, t… More >>

Cape Town and the Winelands

One of the best places in the world to find undeveloped, rugged tropical islands is in Africa. Most are undeveloped and aren’t very touristy, they are often very rugged, the water is crystal clear, the fish abundant, and their beaches are made of beautiful white sand. If there were any islands in the world that looked like post cards, the following islands would be it. 

Zanzibar is an island that is part of Tanzania. Zanzibar was once a separate state with a long trading history within the Arab world and still enjoys a high degree of autonomy within the union. The capital is Zanzibar City, and its old quarter, Stone Town, is a World Heritage Site. The beaches here are undeveloped and the area around the island has an amazing amount of fish, as evident by the piles at the fish markets. It is still sometimes referred to as the Spice Islands because of the significance of its production of cloves.

Madagascar is a large island nation in the Indian Ocean off the southeastern coast of Africa. The country is the fourth-largest island in the world and has 5% of the world’s plant and animal species, of which more than 80% are endemic to Madagascar. The eastern side of the island is home to many tropical rainforests, while the western and southern sides, which lie in the rain shadow of the central highlands, are home to tropical dry forests, thorn forests, and deserts. For those looking for tough jungle trekking, cool streams, and beautiful waterfalls, a holiday to Madagascar should be on your travel list.

Mauritius is an island nation off the coast of the African continent in the southwest Indian Ocean, about 900 kilometers east of Madagascar. Mauritius is part of the Mascarene Islands, with the French island of Réunion to the southwest and the island of Rodrigues to the northeast. This island is home to white sand and palm fringed beaches, warm water, and friendly locals. Its out of the way location makes it a great place to go to get away from the crowds. Interestingly, the island of Mauritius is renowned for having been the only known home of the dodo.

An island of true contrasts, Reunion is very unknown to many of the world’s travelers. This diverse location in the middle of the Indian Ocean is simply one of the most intriguing spots in the world. With an active volcano on its south coast, 17 miles of perfect beaches in the west, and lots of mountains and forests in between, Reunion offers a little bit of everything to its travelers. It’s far away location means that not many travelers are there. Like Mauritius, it is also part of France.

Lastly, there are the islands of the Seychelles. Located off the east coast of Africa, these islands are pure paradise. If anywhere in the world would get someone give it all up and live in beach hut, the Seychelles would be it. The Seychelles have perfect beaches, perfect water, tons of islands to choose from, and all the seclusion you want. This group of 115 islands offers everything a beach lover could ask for. However, the downside to this paradise is that it is expensive to get to and caters to a rich clientele, making them also expensive to stay in.

Africa may be known to most people for its safaris, jungles, animals, desert, and poverty but the continent also offers great tropical destinations. With so many beautiful tropical places to travel to, consider vacation to the islands in Africa the next time you are planning a jaunt to a tropical island.

• ISBN13: 9780470498767
• Condition: NEW
• Notes: Brand New from Publisher. No Remainder Mark.

Product Description
Completely updated every 2 years, Frommer’s South Africa features gorgeous color photos of the sights and experiences that await you and a brand new history and culture chapter. Our author, a lifelong resident of South Africa, hits all the highlights-including safaris in South Africa and Botswana, side trips to Victoria Falls, and vineyard tours outside Cape Town. She’s checked out all the region’s best game lodges, hotels, and restaurants in person; and … More >>

Frommer’s South Africa

South Africa has so much variety to offer visitors that it is difficult to define in a few words. One can travel from isolated bushveldt to cosmopolitan city in a few hours. A safari can be followed by a visit to the spectacular coast and on to the magnificent Drakensburg mountain range. Activities ranging from game drives to shark dives are all part of the South African experience. South Africa is a country that truly has something for everyone.

South Africans national parks and reserves have been splendidly managed for decades and visitors are likely to observe most of southern Africas animals in these parks. In addition, there are many private game reserves providing five-star accommodation and personalized service rivaling any resort in the world. From backpacking to ultimate luxury, you will find what you are looking for in South Africa.

Some of our favorite places:

1. Kruger National Park is Africas oldest game reserve and is one of its largest at nearly 2 million hectares. You are likely to spot all of the “big five” in this park.

2. Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal is renowned for its white rhino conservation program.

3. Itala Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natals rugged northern region offers not only spectacular game viewing but contains some of southern Africas most unique geological features.

4. The Drakensburg Mountains are a must-see while in South Africa. Its magnificent peaks and valleys can be accessed by car, foot, mountain bike or horse and visitors can see many of the rock paintings that its ancient inhabitants have left behind.

5. Tsitsikamma National Park is a unique mountainous coastal ecosystem and one of the worlds largest marine reserves. Watch dolphins surf the waves, take a hike along the rocky coast, and watch whales while camping on the beach. The Otter trail, a 10-day hike along the coast, has a waiting list of months, and is named for the shy creatures that feed along the shores of the park.

6. South Africas beaches range from the tropical east coast to the cold-current west coast. If you want to get a tan while watching penguins, a visit to the Cape Peninsula is the place to be.

7. Cape Town is one of the worlds most beautiful cities. Dine at one of its many fabulous restaurants and take in the nightlife in the shadow of Table Mountain, then take a cable car to the top of the mountain for lunch the next day.

8. The Western Cape is famous for its wineries and quaint Dutch architecture. Begin your wine tour in Stellenbosch and visit as many wineries as you can (preferably while someone else drives!)

Whether you plan to spend a few days or a few weeks in South Africa, you will find what you are looking for!