February 2020 – Page 2

Checklist for Safe Travel with Your Kids in Southern Africa

Travelling in Southern Africa with your kids can be a truly rewarding adventure and help you build lifelong memories, but it also requires a much more elaborate preparation. Safe travel is key. That’s why our team of experts (and parents) have decided to put this article together in order to help you optimise the chances of living a unique and worry-free experience. In this article, you’ll find ideas and advice. Hopefully we will answer any doubts or questions that the organisation of such an adventure might raise.

Here’s our check-list to ensure a safe, exciting travel with your kids:

Check your children’s passport validity. Keep an eye on South Africa’s entry requirements as they currently require parents to travel with an unabridged birth certificate.
Be aware of any food and drink safety recommendations during your travels.
Be informed about the local climate, for both day and night.
Choose your accommodation wisely. Consider that amenities like a swimming pool and other activities will be fun for your children. Moreover, some lodges in private game reserves provide baby-sitting and childcare services, so do your research about your accommodation and plan accordingly.
For parents travelling with toddlers, it is advisable that you bring some of your own equipment. For example, a noise machine, a nightlight or even a childproofing kit (power plug covers, foam corner guards, etc.) are all things that would be useful to bring.
Check that all planned activities are accessible to the whole family (take into account age limits, height limits, specific licenses required, etc.)
Make sure to introduce the itinerary to the children before travelling. That will reassure and motivate them while giving them instructions to follow and rules to respect (concerning attitude during visits, behaviour towards animals when on safari, etc.).
If you intend to drive a lot, make sure the travel distances remain acceptable and bearable for children. (We suggest between a two and a half hour to a three hour maximum travel time)
Bring things that will occupy them during the journey, such as reading, holiday notebooks, travel journal, or music to make sure they’re always busy.
Think about buying snacks in advance that meet your and their specific cravings. Different countries have different snack foods!

Chat to our travel consultants on tailor-making a trip perfectly suited for you and the ages of your children.

By Xavier Lopes

February 13, 2020/by Gugulethu Ntombela

XO Africa

Top 7 things to do in Mozambique

Diving, dhow cruises, deserted islands, snorkelling and sunset cruises; Mozambique is a tropical paradise waiting to be explored. Here’s a few ideas of what to do when you visit…

1. Discover the Bazaruto Archipelago

As a group of five islands in the Mozambique Canal, the archipelago is protected as part of the national park. Created in 1971, it includes the coral reefs surrounding the islands, making it the only protected marine area in Mozambique. The park is one of the largest in the Indian Ocean.

The major attractions are dolphins, humpback whales, and dugongs which are the last population of the African coast. And there are, of course, hundreds of colourful fish. Inland you can meet monkeys, antelopes, otters, pelicans, and flamingos. In the lakes of the two main islands (Bazaruto and Benguerra), you can see crocodiles as well. For lovers of beaches, the proposed activities are diving and fishing. For those who are more into hiking or horse riding, this is the place to visit.

2. Visit Maputo

Located in the extreme south of Mozambique, Maputo is the capital of the country. Known for its colourful markets and a thriving nightlife, this harbour city was founded by the Portuguese and became a diverse and vibrant metropolis. On the list of the places to visit in Maputo include Baixa (port and market), the Tunduru Botanical Gardens, the Eiffel House, Notre Dame Cathedral of the Concession or the National Museum of Arts.

From the culinary point of view, we recommend you taste local seafood, especially the prawns with a peri-peri sauce which are the specialty of the region. When the prawn tasting is over, move to the vibrant nightlife area of Fere Popolare, and enjoy the local beer in one of the bars or nightclubs.

Photo Credit: Rosino

3. Explore Inhaca Island

This little peaceful land is reputed as a home of the rarest fauna and flora species of the world. It’s only a few minutes by boat from Maputo. If you dream about sumptuous, deserted beaches, and you wish to lose yourself in a tropical environment, swim with sea turtles in mild and crystal-clear water, do not forget to have a stop on Inhaca island for few days. Here coral reefs and exotic marine species live in harmony.

The island has only a few hundred inhabitants who are entirely involved in the preservation of the island’s wilderness and biodiversity. Remember that at low tide you can easily walk to the Portuguese island which is a rise of white sandy beaches surrounded by azure blue seas.

4. Dhow Cruise in the Quirimbas Archipelago

This wonderful journey will offer a breathtaking landscape waiting for you to be discovered. Jump aboard a traditional sailing boat locally called a “Dhow” and navigate peacefully with the wind in the Quirimbas Archipelago. The Quirimbas Archipelago is made up of 27 coral islands that are strung along the northern coast of Mozambique. You will discover secluded and privileged places in the north of the country: river mouths, pristine mangrove forests and rare species of birds and the marine biodiversity.

Photo Credit: Wayfaring Sinh

5. Diving with Whale Sharks

Considered as the “official” capital of diving, Tofo is one of the hot spots in Mozambique. You feel the diving culture everywhere in the city. The beach is beautiful. However, the coral reef is less spectacular then in other regions of the country. The presence of manta rays, whale sharks and humpback whales in the season are a real compensation. There is nothing like swimming with a whale shark, the largest fish in the world! You can find humpback whales throughout the year in the popular diving resorts of Ponta do Ouro and Ponta Malongane, but the best time to observe them is during the summer. As for manta rays, they occur in Tofo Bay the whole year.

6. Take a Break at the Polana Serena Hotel

When you are at the very heart of Maputo, on one of the most prestigious avenues of the city, take a break at the magnificent Polona Serena Hotel. The historical building has a classic charm, elegance and was built in a colonial style. Take the time to enjoy an afternoon tea here, even if you do not stay overnight. Taste teas, savour pastries or the delicious short eats in a relaxing and quiet atmosphere of the Polona Bar or on its outside terrace overlooking the pool. You can also relax in the hotel spa, which offers a wide range of massage treatments such as steam, sauna and more. This is exactly what you need after a long day of diving or sightseeing.

Photo Credit: Serena Hotels

7. Cultural visit of the Island of Mozambique

This island was part of the Old Portuguese trading route on the road to India, and was fortified by the Portuguese. Today you can observe the remarkable architectural unity of the fort due to the technique, materials (stone or macuti) and decorative elements used, which have remained the same since the 16th century.

The Island of Mozambique was declared a world heritage site by UNESCO (The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) in the early 90s. In addition to the beautiful beaches, there are other historical buildings to visit, such as the Palace St Paul, the interesting Museum of Sacred Art and the Fort of San Sebastian, which is the oldest fort still standing in sub-Saharan Africa.

With so many things to do in Mozambique, you may even forget to sit back and relax but definitely do that too. With all the beaches, island life vibes and dreamy waters, it would be a tragedy not too.

February 12, 2020/by Gugulethu Ntombela

XO Africa

Sun City: Where Yellow Meets Gold

Yellow. Yellow is the colour of the sun of course, but also as gold or sand. Yellow is the colour of coins but also a façade tanned by the sun. It is a colour that makes you think of the holidays. How about you take a journey inspired by the colour yellow? In South Africa, there is only one place that reminds me of yellow: Sun City. Sun City reflects the sun, the sand, the coins and tanned façades.

Sun City is a huge leisure resort that is only a two-hour drive from Johannesburg. There are four hotels where you could stay. Each one is suited to different budgets, from the affordable family holidays to luxury ones. Likewise, the hundred activities offered will satisfy everyone: just enjoy the sun around the swimming pools or on the golf course. If you prefer gambling, bet at the Sun City Casino.

You could also go shopping, attend to a concert as well as discover the stunning nature that surrounds you. Sun City is located on the edge of the Pilanesberg National Park. This is a park where you can enjoy a safari 55 000 hectares big. If you are lucky enough, you may see the famous Big Five (buffalo, leopard, lion, rhino and elephant). The crater of a long extinct volcano is the setting of the Pilanesberg National Park. Pilanesberg is one of the largest volcanic complexes of its kind in the world. Its rare rock types and structure make it a unique geological feature.

There are nearly 200 kilometres of excellent quality roads for either self-drives or guided drives. Professional guides operate within the park. Numerous hides and scenic picnic sites enable tourists to experience “out-of-car” experiences as well. Sun City and the Pilanesberg will suit everyone’s needs and desires. Whether you’re looking for a romantic trip or a wildlife experience, Sun City will fulfil your needs.

By Sébastien Charrieras

February 11, 2020/by Gugulethu Ntombela

XO Africa

Our 7 Natural Wonders in Southern Africa

Southern Africa abounds with unique landscapes, but XO Africa has selected 7 natural wonders not to be missed, just for you…

1. Victoria falls, Zimbabwe & Zambia

The Victoria Falls, one of the most spectacular locations on the planet, are, for us, an African paradise. Standing over 100 m high, 1.7 km long and 550 million litres of water poured per minute, the Victoria Falls are really impressive to see. In addition, you will contemplate the surrounding nature which, with its fauna and flora, its rainforests and the Zambezi River, offers an authentic and beautiful scenery. Many activities are also there to take your sensations to another level and feel the natural force of the falls: rafting, helicopter tours, safaris or cruise on the mighty Zambezi River… And last but not the least, did you know that the Victoria Falls are one of UNESCO’s World Heritage sites?

Photo Credit: Ninara

2. Quirimbas Archipelago, Mozambique

The Quirimbas Archipelago have a dozen islands and numerous islets scattered along the coast between Pemba and the Rio Rovuma. I’ll let you imagine the turquoise water surrounding the archipelago. It’s a white sand paradise where you’ll imagine yourself like being in Pirates of the Caribbean. Tranquillity and remoteness are guaranteed. Also, you can discover the submarine jewels of the archipelago thanks to the various activities such as diving, big-game fishing, and walks around islands. With family, a group of friends or with your loved one, this destination is for you.

3. The Drakensberg Mountains, South Africa

We have ticked the Drakensberg Mountains–also known as Dragon Mountain in Afrikaans—off of our bucket list as one of Southern Africa’s natural wonders. These gigantic mountains are a challenge for the adventure amateurs and a paradise for wildlife lovers. Extending from the northeast to the southwest for about 1125 km, the landscape stretches as far as the eye can see. Here you can explore two of the highest peaks located in Lesotho, the Thabana Ntlenyana (3482 m) and the Makheka (3461 m). Between us, one of the most famous views of the Drakensberg National Park is located in the northern part in the Royal Natal Park and is called the Amphitheatre.

4. Okavango Delta – Botswana

If you are looking for total remoteness, the Okavango Delta is the perfect place! Located in northern part of Botswana, the Okavango Delta is a vast maze of lagoons and numerous islands extending over 15,000 km². Supplied by several rivers from the north, these waters attract flocks of birds and a large diversity of animals like hippos, crocodiles, antelopes, zebras or elephants each year. It is one of the biggest migration spots of the animal kingdom in the world. Welcome to the heart of authentic nature. For a true and closer contact with this fabulous wildlife, we strongly advise you to go on a mokoro (traditional canoe) safari with a local guide. This is a unique way of navigating through the meanders of the delta.

Photo Credit: Michael Levine-Clark

5. Sossusvlei, Namibia

Sossusvlei is a marvel; a sea of sand stretching for 300 km long and 150 km wide in the heart of the Namib Desert in Namibia. Nobody is insensitive to the infinite sequence of waves of soft and plump sands. And with its range of colours between yellow, orange to ochre, two words come through my mind: unique and beautiful. From a hot air balloon or a plane, you can explore the vastness of the desert like a bird unless you choose the quad bike or 4×4 options to feel the curves of these wonderful desert dunes.

6. Blyde River Canyon, South Africa

Offering beautiful and spectacular views, the Blyde River Canyon is located in the province of Mpumalanga in South Africa in the east of the historic region of the Transvaal. This canyon, 26 km long and 800 meters deep, is crossed by the Blyde River and ranks third largest canyon in the world. A rich flora, this place exhibits a rare and sublime nature, which attracts many animals such as baboons, crocodiles, hippos and more.

Photo Credit: Erik Larson

7. Table Mountain , South Africa

The famous Table Mountain. You cannot miss it if you come to Cape Town. Recently named of the new 7 natural wonders of the world, it offers a panoramic view of the city and the surrounding suburbs as well as a breathtaking view of the Atlantic Ocean. Reach the summit by cable car, or by foot for the most adventurous, using the different hiking trails that will take you to the top while admiring the scenery.

Speak to one of our travel consultants to add one of these 7 Natural wonders to your Southern Africa itinerary.

Phone: +27 (0)21 486 2700 (ZA)

Email: info@travelbyxo.com

By Amélie Fages

February 10, 2020/by Gugulethu Ntombela

XO Africa

What to Pack for the Wild

While going on a journey to the great outdoors inspires to a simpler way of life and a return to necessities, the packing for such trips is nothing close to simple. Imagine your suitcase becoming a giant puzzle that you must assemble perfectly to optimise your experience on site. There is always a struggle of finding the perfect combination of clothes and accessories and making them fit into your luggage that seems to be getting smaller and smaller as you start thinking of scenarios in which you would need this and that.

Photo Source: Pinterest & Ofonime Essien Aviation

Well, at Travel By XO, we understand your worries and this is why we have prepared this checklist on what to pack for your adventurous journey through Southern Africa.

LUGGAGE

There are three main types of luggage that you will need. The first is a large soft bag, which is mandatory when flying with chartered airplanes, especially in Botswana. Choose a resistant and flexible bag as most small aircrafts store the luggage in a very small compartment.

The second item you’ll need is a backpack. It’s the most comfortable way to bring as many accessories as you can along on your adventures.

The third item is a small money belt: the necessary choice if you are transiting through smaller, less frequented airports or visiting some bustling local popular markets to purchase authentic souvenirs.

CLOTHING

Remember that you are going into the wild and that wild animals will be roaming around you. It is recommended to only bring green, beige, khaki, brown or grey coloured clothing along. You want to blend into nature in terms of the colour scheme as much as you can. Curiously, blue and black attracts tsetse flies while red and white attracts most animal’s attention!

Photo Source: Fashion Me Now & The Safari Store

Clothing Checklist

1 pair of comfortable closed walking shoes: ensure that you have worn them before your trip if you are planning long enjoyable walks and hikes or even want to attempt a walking safari.
1 pair of sandals – in Southern Africa aside from hot wonderful summers even winter and autumn can spoil you with warmth and sunshine so to enjoy pool, beach and surroundings always pack a pair for just in case.
1 tight fitting hat to avoid nasty sunburns
1 comfortable pair of sunglasses so you can enjoy the beautiful sights of animals and landscapes even in sunshine
2-3 pairs long pants and 1-2 pair of shorts
2-3 tee-shirts as well as 2-3 long sleeved shirts
Sleepwear and underwear
1 smart-casual outfit to dine at the lodge (opt for long sleeves and long pants to avoid insect bites)
1 windproof jacket with a warm inner lining
1 scarf and a 1 woolly hat and gloves for travel during the winter
1-2 sports bras: the game drives can be rough going through unfenced terrain (you’ll thank us later for this tip ladies)
1 swimming costume

ESSENTIAL ACCESSORIES

Toiletries

Aside from your beauty case containing all the essentials you use daily, we want to just point out not to forget high factor suntan lotion, as the African sun can be harsh on your skin. You will also need a moisturizer as the wind in, for example, Cape Town can be quite drying. Pack a long lasting lip balm and when packing razors, we recommend non electric options. Please also stay away from strong smelling beauty products or perfumes on safaris as you don’t want to attract the attention of animals.

MEDICINE

Anti-histamine cream & tablets
Painkillers
Any personal medication (including malaria medication) should be carried with you at all times.
Foreign foods don’t agree with everyone so make sure to pack something for any gastric issues you may encounter on your journey to ensure that your tummy won’t get in the way of your well-deserved holidays.

Photo Source: Istock – 101 Ways to Survive

Other useful essentials

Cash in moderation
Camera – with charger, spare memory cards & battery
1 pair of binoculars per person
1 torch per person
1 adapter for the plugs in South Africa

Photo Source: Silverkris

By Lou Zagagnoni

February 7, 2020/by Gugulethu Ntombela

XO Africa

Xonians Experience Spier

Our staff outing to Spier was lovely. Located in Stellenbosch, a an hour’s drive away from Cape Town, Spier is one of South Africa‘s oldest wine farms. We were welcomed by the staff and given a grand tour of Spier. Our guide, Stefan, gave us insight into the farm’s history and the way it’s run. The farm was founded in 1692, and the gorgeous architecture displays this perfectly. They have a total of 153 rooms. We were shown wonderful rooms, including a riverside room, as well as one of the suites!

Two of the rooms have been converted into an adorable kids’ club! They were fully booked so we could only look at those four rooms. This place is really coveted. I can see why. Spier is beautiful, and a perfect vacation destination. We were told that Spier is great for families and FIT, and I believe it would be a very romantic getaway for two.

We were shown all kinds of wonderful art: mosaic art and art made from recycled newspapers as well as old Jik bottles. There were gorgeous golden women sculptures who were bought by the owner from Greece as they were previously in an amphitheatre and were going to be melted. Thank goodness they were saved. They are quite the sight. Some of the art was organic. They had planted lovely flowers and succulents, among others, in everyday items such as shoes, bags, boots and even jeans.

After taking the tour on foot, we were ready for the Segways! The lovely staff showed us how to ride a Segway in the safest way possible. Don’t worry, we all had helmets. It was such a thrill to ride the Segways through the beautiful vineyards, there were flowers and vines as far as the eye can see.

We were given some insight as to how sustainable and healthy their farming methods were. For example, they keep some of the wild flora to grow around the vineyards. This ensures that pesky insects will prey on the wild bush instead of the lovely vines. This way, they don’t need to use chemicals on their vines, such as pesticides. They use nature to solve problems caused by nature. It’s pretty ingenious.

We ate lunch at Eight Restaurant and were fed food made from fresh produce grown right there on the farm. The meat was free range and the wine was marvellous. There was chicken, a garden salad, beef, steamed vegetables, and the sweetest sweet potato. This was a meal we all savoured, and we even took the leftovers home with us, so nothing was wasted.

After lunch came the wine tasting and chocolate pairing. I am not a good judge of the wine since I don’t drink alcohol, but the chocolate was definitely not to miss! The grape juice I was provided was very much appreciated, and actually paired well with the chocolate. This entire experience truly was amazing.

What an awesome way to end the day! We did not want to leave, we would’ve all loved to stay the night. You would have felt the same way. I look forward to revisiting Spier one day, for sure.

To add Spier to your itinerary, call one of Travel by XO travel consultants on +27 (0)21 486 2700 (ZA)

February 6, 2020/by Gugulethu Ntombela

XO Africa

10 Reasons to visit Southern Africa this Summer

When is the last time you had a white Christmas? A white sand one that is?! Even better, summer in the southern hemisphere continues until March. Think waves lapping on a Cape Town beach, sailing to a tropical island in Mozambique coupled with game viewing in one of the world’s richest ecosystems of Botswana, sunrise atop a Namibian dune or an evening in the vibrant city of Johannesburg. Now that autumn has come to Europe and spring has sprung in the southern hemisphere, isn’t it time you started planning your summer holidays here? Here’s 10 very good reasons to get planning now…

1. Cape Town, South Africa

From the sweeping city and coastal views from atop Table Mountain to the romantic wine country of Stellenbosch and jaw-dropping peninsula views stopping to see African penguins and endless beaches, Cape Town is a city that can’t be missed when visiting the top of Africa. From artisan markets, gourmet restaurants and sunsets atop Signal Hill to outdoor family adventures and kid-friendly activities at the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town’s allure has a way of making you fall for her city instantly.

2. Sossusvlei, Namibia

When’s the last time you watched the sunrise over cascading burnt-orange in a desert? Pretty much a once-in-a-lifetime experience, there’s a reason Sossuvlei is one of the most popular places to visit in Namibia. White salt plans, deadvlei and red dunes in the middle of the Namib-Nakluft National Park. Find your way to the top of a dune, sand-board down or make you way around in a thrilling 4×4 trail.

3. Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and Zambia

Also known as the ‘Smoke that Thunders’, one of the world’s most majestic waterfalls can be experienced from the air on a helicopter flip, with a daring dip in Devil’s pool, or even a luxury cruise along the Zambezi. Bordering both Zambia and Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls beckons visitors from across the globe.

4. Bazaruto, Mozambique

Think powder-white islands on the edge of underwater reef bubbling over with marine life of every kind. Go snorkelling or out for a dive. Enjoy a seafood BBQ on a dune, feel the wind in your hair on a dhow boat cruise at sunset or don’t leave your luxury lodge at all. This is one tropical escape you’d like to make and it’s only a short flight away from the big city of Johannesburg.

5. Okavango Delta, Botswana

Get lost (with the guidance of incredible rangers) in one of the world’s richest ecosystems of Botswana’s Okavango Delta where annual flooding leaves lots of the delta only accessible to guest via small planes and the wildlife has learnt to adapt to both dry and wet seasons. Sundowners beside a watering hole, makoro rides through the swamps, game drives just before the sun dips in the savannah and some of the most spectacular game viewing in the wilderness all await.

6. Johannesburg, South Africa.

Otherwise known as the city of Gold, Jozi can only be described as vibrant and bursting with life, colour and people. Explore the trendy hub of Maboneng on foot, savoury local cuisine at one of the many markets day or night and enjoy street art in many corners of the city. Take to the township of Soweto on a bike tour and assist in some of the local initiatives to make a difference.

7. Sani Pass, Lesotho

Whether you’re visiting for the snow and ice scattered on the mountain tops of Lesotho or the green hills to be enjoyed when it’s warm, the Sani Pass is a mountain pass located in the West of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa on the road between Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal and Mokhotlong, Lesotho. Undulating mountain tops are a sight to behold and bring visitors from across the globe.

Photo Credit: Michael Denne-Flickr

Photo Credit: Timo-Flickr

8. Central Kalahari Game Reserve, Botswana

What an experience to visit the Central Kalahari Game Reserve lies within the largest sand basin in the world and has only recently been opened to the public and is best for those seeking to savour a wild, remote wilderness. While it’s a desert, you will be surprised by the high density of game and various habitats of grasslands, riverbeds, bush veld and acacia tree forests.

9. Etosha National Park, Namibia

For the most part, you don’t even need to leave your camp to view game within Etosha. Go on game drives during the day and wait for game to come in search of water. Often the waterholes in or close to camps are lit for guests to sit down and enjoy nature unfold and go about its business. And what a magical business it is.

10. Kruger National Park, South Africa

Whether you’re taking to bush on a foot with a ranger or in a game vehicle, witnessing but a corner of nearly 2 million hectares of diverse bushveld that makes up the Kruger National Park will leave you forever changed. Spot the Big Five, little Five ( hopefully) and everything else in between. Set out in the early morning cool to see who is already awake or try a night drive to watch as the nocturnal animals start to awaken.

Call us now to book your luxury tailor-made trip to Southern Africa: +27 (0)21 486 2700

February 5, 2020/by Gugulethu Ntombela

XO Africa

South Africa beyond a Safari

If when someone speaks about South Africa, you immediately think about wild animals in the middle of the African savannah or if every time someone says to you, “I’m going to South Africa for the holidays” you answer back, “Oh nice, you’re going to go on a safari!” Take a few minutes to read this article and you will understand that it’s a shame to reduce such a beautiful country to only one activity, no matter how incredible it is!

In this country, there is something to satisfy everyone’s tastes. Adults, young and old, couples, families, retirees, athletes, nature lovers, musicians, foodies, everyone—yes I do mean everyone—can find something in South Africa to their taste! It would be tedious to list every place, landscape or activity in the country. However, let’s try to highlight the peculiarities of South Africa to introduce you to something other than a safari!

First of all, you should know that South Africa is a really BIG country, which deserves to be captured differently depending on where you are. Indeed, if you travel in Western Cape, Kruger Park or KwaZulu-Natal, you will see very different landscapes, animals, climates and cultures! It’s certainly relevant to speak of bush but we shouldn’t forget that South Africa also has amazing beaches, mountains, lagoons, dry deserts, and vineyards as far as your eyes can see.

Yes really, you’ll never get tired of this country! If there are landscapes to suit every taste, imagine how many activities there would be for you to do! Let’s start with what seems more obvious: the beaches in South Africa. South Africa is home to two oceans and thousands of beaches. Below the mountains, hidden between cliffs, spreading as far as your eyes can see, it’s up to you to find your small corner of paradise! For those who can’t stand lying on the beach, you have the chance to do many water activities such as surfing or windsurfing, swimming with seals, watching the whales and even shark-cage diving… the list goes on.

For those who love nature, the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu-Natal is the place where you belong. Choose a path and explore this huge nature reserve for several days. You will enjoy a very unique experience in harmony with nature. Or maybe you’re more attracted to Table Mountain? You will definitely enjoy a breathtaking view of Cape Town from the top!

Don’t worry! If you prefer the excitement of the city and cultural visits, the major cities of South Africa—Cape Town and Johannesburg—are perfect for you. Through visiting many museums (the Slave Lodge in Cape Town and the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg, amongst others), or wandering in the different districts (townships, sea side, CBD, etc.), you will feel the strong influence of history that is still very present in this country.

There is nothing better than interacting with locals, discovering their habits, their ways of life and state of mind to have a truly accurate overview of these cities. Eventually, it’s crucial for you to know that South Africa takes food very seriously! Once again, there is something for everybody: whether you’re at a South African specialties or indulging in some international food (Asian, European and more) in a themed restaurant (jazz, hipster, pub) or in a casual market, you will be completely overwhelmed! This culinary diversity can be coupled with a huge range of excellent wine produced in the Winelands of Cape Town. If you have the chance to visit these vineyards, you will discover wonderful properties that have absolutely nothing to envy from all these castles in Bordeaux (in France)!

There you are. You now have a modest preview of what is waiting for you in South Africa. Go ahead; come discover a country that will blow your mind!

And never forget, going on safari is an excellent reason to visit South Africa – but hardly the only one!

By Capucine Motte

February 4, 2020/by Gugulethu Ntombela

XO Africa

Samuel’s Garden Route Adventure

Our General Manager, Samuel Regnier, traveled along the Garden Route with his family and discovered incredible places for families, couples, incentive trips, bush escapes and beach breaks.

Where did your garden route road trip take you?

We started driving on the unique scenic road R44 overlooking at False Bay. We then followed the coast all the way to then come back on the N2… using my own car. Stopped for a cool coffee at Swellendam at Tredici for one of the best breakfasts ever… then Mossel Bay, Wilderness with a stop for a surf session at Victoria Bay (which was unique..!!!! and there are lots of tiny guest houses there for FIT)… then of course Knysna all the way to Tsitsikama, out of this world! On our way back to Cape Town, the unique Road 62 offering amazing views…

What were some of the highlights for you?

Gondwana Game Reserve was just THE perfect product… for families and FITs of course because it offers a wide range of activities including Big 5 and also a great level of accommodation with lodges and villas in the bush.

For groups/MICE, it’s also a very good alternative to consider because they offer a Big 5 experience but also totally different landscapes than up North in Kruger or Pilanesberg. The possibility to privatise the whole property and also do unique experiences using the villas, is a must…

George airport is not that far so ideal also to fly in direct.

Tsitsikamma and the series of unbelievable bridges are not to be missed when visiting that Garden Route! If you’re lucky you could spot whales and dolphins all along the coast drive…