Mini Travel Guides

While there are numerous wine regions in and around Cape Town, two of the best are definitely Paarl and Franschhoek. If you are a fan of French wine regions, you will definitely want to take a tour of Franschhoek. In fact, the area has been aptly nicknamed the French Corner due to the fact that it is just a bit like visiting Provence, with the exception that you are in South Africa. Even the names of the farms and the streets have a bit of a French twist to them. This is because beginning around 1688 French Huguenots began to arrive in South Africa in large numbers and settled in the region. You can even find a museum and monument that celebrates the arrival of the Huguenots in South Africa. While the Huguenots were trying to escape religious persecution they brought with them their knowledge and experience in viticulture and rapidly began to establish wine farms in the local area. Today, these farms and the wine industry is flourishing in the local area.

Of course, wine is not the only reason to visit this lovely region. You will also find some of the best restaurants in all of South Africa in Franschhoek. The local cheeses and produce are absolutely spectacular and well complimented by the locally produced wines. The idyllic scenery along with the wonderful wines and foods makes this region an area that should not be missed while in the Cape Town region.

While you won’t find much in the way of traditional shopping, there is a fabulous chocolate shop as well as a local cheese shop where you can purchase items to take back with you. The chocolate shop even allows you to try your own hand at creating delicious confections.

Paarl is yet another area well worth visiting; known for its fabulous wines, eccentric art and plethora of monuments. In addition you will also find a number of antique stores that are well worth browsing as well as fabulous restaurants.

One of the best wine farms to explore is Seidelberg Wine Estate. Not only will you be able to tour the wine farm, but there is also an art studio located here known as Bronze Age and is home to functional pieces of art and metal sculptures. A sumptuous restaurant is located on the same estate along with a cellar that features a working glass blowing studio. If you have never had the opportunity to watch glass being created from sand, it is definitely an experience that should not be missed. You can also purchase glassware at the shop that ranges from perfume bottles to vases to sculpture.

At wine Valley Horse Trails there are stables right on site that provide you with the opportunity to see the best of the region while enjoying a relaxing horse back ride. This is truly a breathtaking way of seeing the beauty of the local area and should not be missed if you happen to be in the region.

There are many wildlife parks and reserves for visitors and residents to enjoy to be found within the Western Cape of South Africa. There are hundreds of varieties of animals including reptiles, birds, mammals, and fish. The highlight for many visitors are the mammals such as the lions, buffalo, leopards, and elephants.

Welcome to Sanbona

Some of the native people of the Western Cape of South Africa, the San, were the inspiration for the name of the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. The reserve has more than one hundred thirty thousand acres located at the bottom of the Wamwaterberg. The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is the only reserve in the area that allows lions to roam about freely.

The Western Cape of South Africa was roamed by the San people for thousands of years. During their stay on the land they created a variety of religious artwork that can now be visited by guests of the reserve. Some of the seven pieces of rock art on the reserve has been dated as being more than thirty-five hundred years old.

The Sabona Wildlife Reserve in the Western Cape of South Africa has been breeding a rare form of white lions. These lions have always been a rarity in the region but now, unfortunately, in many areas they are completely extinct. The owners hope that by breeding the lions they will one day be able to release them again into the wild.

This wildlife reserve offers guests guided tours through their area of the Western Cape of South Africa. With the extensive area and numerous animals guests are guaranteed an unforgettable experience. The reserve offers a variety of lodges for guests to retreat to after their day of exploration has ended.

Welcome to Ko-Ka

Near the Western Cape of South Africa city of Cape Town is the Ko-Ka Tsara Game Reserve. The reserve encompasses about thirty thousand acres and more than twenty separate species of animals and an additional two hundred varieties of birds.

Visitors who stay at the Ko-Ka Tsara Game Reserve in the Western Cape of South Africa have the option of going on guided tours to view the wildlife both day and night. For those who are looking for a more private experience the reserve also has bird watching areas and hiking trails. At the end of the day guests can watch the stars next to a cozy campfire.

This reserve in the Western Cape of South Africa has seven luxurious chalets, a lounge, and a conference center. Each chalet was designed with local materials so that they would not disrupt the natural beauty of the land. Guests can cook their own meals or enjoy one of the meals prepared by the reserve chef.

With more than a dozen wildlife reserves and parks located within the Western Cape of South Africa each vacation is sure to be memorable. With such a variety of animal, fish, and bird life to be found no two trips to the Western Cape of South Africa will ever be the same.

There are dozens of wildlife parks and reserves for residents and guests to explore within the Western Cape of South Africa. Hundreds of varieties of wildlife can be found in the Western Cape of South Africa including birds, reptiles, fish and mammals. For many visitors to these reserves the main attractions are the mammals such as the lions, buffalo, elephants, and leopards.

The Wildlife Reserve of Sanbona

The San were some of the first indigenous peoples to live in the Western Cape of South Africa. These people were the inspirational in the naming of the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. With more than one hundred thirty thousand acres, the reserve is located at the bottom of the Wamwaterberg. The only privately owned reserve in the area that allows lions to roam about freely is the Sanbona.

The Western Cape of South Africa was home for thousands of years to the San people. During their stewardship of the land they created religious artwork on the local rock formations that can now be viewed by guests of the reserve. There are seven different piece of rock art to be seen, some of which are thirty-five hundred years old.

The owners of this wildlife reserve in the Western Cape of South Africa have been breeding a rare form of white lion. This type of lion has always been rare in the area, however, now they are almost totally gone from most locations. By breeding the lions in captivity the owners hope to be able to renew the population and eventually place them back into the wild.

The Sanbona Wildlife Reserve gives guided tours through the Western Cape of South Africa. With such a vast area and a huge range of wildlife guests are sure to have a unique experience. At the end of their excursions guests can look forward to returning to their comfortable rooms on the reserve.

The Wildlife Reserve of Ko-Ka

Located near thecity of Cape Town in the Western Cape of South Africa is the Ko-Ka Tsara Game Reserve. This reserve stretches across thirty thousand acres and is home to about twenty separate species of animals in additionto two hundred varieties of birds.

Guests staying at the Ko-Ka Tsara Game Reserve in the Western Cape of South Africa can go on guided tours of the area either at night or during the day. Guests who wish to explore the area by themselves or in a smaller group can do so by hiking the trails or watching birds in the blinds. After a long day of exploring the wildlife guests can watch for shooting stars beside the campfire before returning to their rooms.

This Western Cape of South Africa reserve has seven lovely chalets as well as a lounge and a conference center. Each of the chalets was constructed with local stone and lumbar to keep the experience as true to the wilderness experience as possible. Guests can cook their own meals in their chalet or have meals prepared by a chef.

The Western Cape of South Africa has more than a dozen parks and wildlife reserves for visitors to explore. With so many options and such a variety of wildlife with the Western Cape of South Africa each visit is sure to be a new and exciting adventure.

Swellendam, South Africa’s third oldest town is nestling at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains and has much to offer visitors who have an interest in history, nature, outdoor activities and art. Swellendam is ideally situated halfway between Cape Town and George and is therefore an ideal stop over for tourists. In these two hours from Cape Town to Swellendam, you will pass through unspoilt villages and towns. Take a trip back in time and stay in some of the historic homesteads and country houses in the area, which offer bed and breakfast. Rainfall is spread over the year and there is little wind and temperatures are moderate all year round

Swellendam has been an important travel centre for centuries. Early travelers and explorers traded with the Khoi-Khoi people and in 1743 the Dutch East India Company declared Swellendam a magisterial district and built the Drostdy which was completed in 1747. This Drostdy, a national monument, is the only eighteenth century Drostdy that is preserved in its original form and will give tourists a wonderful insight as to the life of the settlers.

The more adventures tourist can go on the Swellendam hike. Located in and around the Marloth Nature Reserve this hiking trail is one of the most beautiful in the Cape. There are numerous shorter routs if a six day hike is too long for you. On this trail you will see stretches of fynbos alternated with cool indigenous forest, small animals and birds. Other sections of the trail will give you the sensation of being in a peaceful and secluded wilderness. The six day hike demands a medium to high level of fitness and is therefore not recommended for the light hearted. The Marloth Nature Reserve is also one of the best birding spots in the Western Cape and therefore defiantly worth visiting.

The rare and beautiful Bontebok antelope and other small buck species can be seen at the Bontebok National Park. This park is only 6km out of Swellendam. A total of 126 different bird species have also been identified here. There is a charming caravan park on the banks of the Breede River where they also have fully equipped chalets for hire and where day visitors are welcome to swim, fish or picnic.

Other than hiking the adventurous at heart can also enjoy a day or two off river rafting. The Breede River rafting adventure is about a 2.5hour drive from Cape Town. On this adventure you will enjoy your days paddling in two-man Mohawk canoes in the tranquil waters of the Breede and your nights socializing around a campfire. The Up the Creek Camp is situated near Swellendam on a hill side overlooking the river where the accommodation is A-frame chalets or 3 ox-wagons. This accommodation includes comfortable beds with linen and Duvets. All in all, this adventure will be well worth a try and is ideal for a family to enjoy together.

Youngberry tasting can be done at the Buffeljags Dam. This cultivated wild berry was imported to South Africa in 1939 by Prof OSH Reinecke. The industry is sadly declining because of endless problems associated with wind and rain damage or to much heat, pest attacks and insufficient labor during the peak harvesting period from mid – November to early December. Today over 90% of the total annual crop of just over 600 tons is produced by farmers in the Swellendam area. On your visit to the Hermitage Liqueur Farm just 3km out of town you can sample some of the liqueur made from youngberries. Other Youngberry products are also for sale here.

Local artists like the potter Jan du Toit’s vases are famous, visit him and other artists in the town.

Other activities that Swellendam has to offer include:

* 4×4 Mountain Experience: Marloth Nature Reserve

* Canoe the Breede River

* Sunset Cruises on a kitted-out double-decker wooden raft

* Buffeljachts Dam for Water sports

* Horse Trails

* White water raft the Breede River

* Waterskiing

* Several well-known artists have settled in Swellendam and their studios may be visited

* Pop into the Sulina Faerie Sanctuary: Magical Faerie display

Geographically South Africa is a vast country and also a very beautiful place to visit. For British people its very nice place to visit because there is a common language and also same time means virtually there is no time difference between Southern Africa and UK. So planning a holiday trip to South Africa for the first time can be a difficult task. Before going to you should know geography and climate of Southern Africa. Then only you can make your trip enjoyable.

There are lots of tour promoters are available with attractive offers. You can decide your tour programmers by online also. Tour promoters will help you to get a good accommodation, travel facility that is any vehicle you want. So in all cases they will help you. Mostly all of the promoters give attractive tour packages that help you in financially and here you can select your package depend on the places you like to visit in Southern Africa. You can have an option of the hotel type you want to reside in South Africa, number of days you like to spend there. Once you decided your trip just inform the corresponding agencies and fix your tour.

In South Africa you will get classic hotels, private villas, guest houses and lodges to stay. South African foods are so nice and delicious especially wines. Most of the Europeans are now becoming aware of these wines. You will get a train journey offers also like luxury train trips, blue train and Rovos rails. The important thing is that you should check whether the tour arrangers or promoters would provide any finance security, because some promoters are providing finance security. So plan your trip well and decide a suitable tour package from good tour arrangers who provide all the securities and best trip and make your trip enjoyable.

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.

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.

• 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