If you are not in possession of a “green mamba”, or don’t really have the energy to go through a dreaded visa process for a trip abroad, all is not lost.
While international travel offers a plethora of unique experiences, South Africa holds its own with an array of incredible travel opportunities that also won’t completely obliterate your bank account. It’s a common misconception that to try something new, you need to get out of the country, but don’t overlook what could be waiting for you in your own backyard. All it takes is a little research and fortunately, a lot less paperwork.
“If you are interested in a specific activity, or in visiting a certain landmark, it often works out a lot easier to arrange this through your accommodation”, says Sharmila Ragunanan Group Marketing Manager of Dream Hotels and Resorts. “The staff at your lodge or hotel are often incredibly familiar with the area, being on site. They can point you in the right direction of some top-notch restaurants and shops to get what you need, as you go.”
Here’s a round-up of some local destinations you can make the most of this December:
The Garden Route
Nothing beats a self-drive along the Garden Route, where the spectacular views are free and self-catering accommodation options reward you with a flexible timetable to braai when you feel like it. Heading along the coast of the Eastern Cape offers the opportunity for activities such as hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, sunset cruises with dolphin, seal and whale watching. If you need last minute accommodation, try Hartenbos Lagoon Resort, which is not far from Mossel Bay and great for friends and family. If you find yourself near Knysna, Oaklands on the Knoll’s two bedroom units will reward you with the perfect holiday pad.
Cradle of Humankind:
While the tourists compete with each other in the Kruger Park, head out from Johannesburg in the opposite direction. Mount Savannah Game Reserve is located within the Cradle of Human Kind and offers 2000 ha of unspoilt wilderness. Here, you can connect with nature. Indulge in a mix of game watching, birding and plenty of relaxation time by the outdoor pool or the traditional boma at night. Visit Maropeng (visitor centre of the Cradle of Humankind) and the Sterkfontein Caves, or opt for a hot air balloon safari over the Magaliesberg Mountains
KZN Beaches:
Nothing beats a holiday at the beach. The KwaZulu-Natal South Coast is the place to be with its warm Indian Ocean water, but as the holiday-makers infiltrate, the main city beaches fill up very quickly. Look into heading an hour or two just outside of Durban if you are looking for some seclusion. Scottburgh beach makes for an ideal family holiday and while you are there, pop into the Blue Marlin, a 60 year old hotel which is well-known by
the locals and has recently been renovated just in time for the holidays.
The Greater Kruger
If your heart is set on the Kruger Park but are keen to avoid those stiff hotel-in-the-bush type accommodation, there are some great options set in the Greater Kruger region. There is also no fenced border between these areas, so the animals can roam freely. The Mopane District set on the western side of the Kruger offers excellent game viewing with the Kruger. Head out on a game drive or try a walking safari at Mthimkhulu Wilderness Trails, where experienced tracker-guides will lead you out into the veld tracking animals by their dung and spoor.
The Cape Winelands:
The Mother City never disappoints but with the current water crisis and the busy season looming, why not op to spend some time in the Cape Winelands region? Franschhoek will have you feeling like you are in a quaint French Village where everyone speaks with a South African accent. Spend a night at Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa which captures a modern country feel, then once you are feeling energised, head off on a day tour to explore Cape Town.