South Africa’s Rainbow Nation offers a diverse array of culture, fauna, flora, as well as rich history and adventure. So, whether you want to explore more than 100 world-class wine estates, discover the magnitude of the Kruger National Park and experience the big 7 wildlife at its best; lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant, rhino, Southern right whale and great white shark, there are many breathtaking places to discover. You can also hike or climb approximately 900 routes available at Table Mountain, enjoy the beauty of the floral kingdom or hear one of our 11 official languages. For these reasons, this colourful, vibrant country will leave you in awe, without a doubt.

DID YOU KNOW?

South Africa is ranked third in the world compared to the other seventeen megadiverse countries.

Bordered by Namibia, Botswana, and Zimbabwe to the north and northwest, and by Mozambique and Eswatini (Swaziland) to the east, South Africa lies at the southernmost tip of Southern Africa. Markedly, Lesotho is an independent country enclaved entirely by South African territory.

South Africa boasts two coastlines; the warm Indian Ocean and the colder Atlantic Ocean which converge at Cape Point. With an average climate, summers are warm to hot with daytime temperatures generally between 21 to 32°C. Even so, higher elevations have lower temperatures with night temperatures falling substantially in the interior by as much as 17°C. Winters are cool to cold ranging between 10 to 21°C in the daytime, being that, the eastern and southeastern coasts have an annual average of around 21°C.

Botswana is known as one of the most renowned safari destinations in Africa. Experience the vast wilderness of the Okavango Delta, where the wildlife, including big cats and elephants, roam free. The lush habitat is a bucket-list must, especially during the seasonal floods.

It is also home to the Kalahari Desert, the largest region of sand on the planet. Marvel at the salt pans of Makgadikgadi, the baobabs of Nxai Pans, and Kubu Island. The wildlife of Kgalagadi, the fossil river valleys and history of the San people in the Central Kalahari Game Reserve, will be imprinted in your mind forever.

Botswana has a subtropical desert climate. Therefore, there are vast differences in day and nighttime temperatures and low humidity overall. With virtually no rainfall for half of the year, the temperature in the dry season ranges between 25 to 34°C during the day. At night, it ranges from 6 to 15°C. The wettest months are from December to March, with temperatures around the 30°C mark during the day and 20°C in the evening.

Lesotho is a high-altitude, landlocked country encircled by South Africa. It is known for its labyrinth of rivers and high mountain ranges. Mount Thabana Ntlenyana peaks at 3482m and is, therefore, Southern Africa’s highest peak, one of its most breathtaking places to discover. The local Basotho culture is rich in heritage and shepherds can be seen along the countryside coated in multi-coloured blankets.

The landscape is a dream for hikers, horseriders and 4×4 fanatics. Sunny days in Spring and Autumn offer many valleys and waterfalls to explore. Unlike the warmer months, winter brings heavy snowfall as well as the opportunity to ski and snowboard at Afriski.

Mozambique is famous for its beautiful Indian Ocean coastlines. The picturesque beaches and azure waters, full of colourful fish, make this a paradise worth seeing. Explore the well-preserved coral reefs as well as the beautiful archipelagos. Catch a wave in the south, or enjoy the vibrant nightlife. The equally interesting colonial-era ruins are scattered across the country and give a glimpse of insight into the rich history.

With a tropical climate, on the whole, the general temperature ranges between 28 and 32°C during the day and 19 to 24°C during the night across summer and winter. Mozambique promises an adventure of a lifetime.

eSwatini, also known as Swaziland, is a land abundant with wildlife. It is especially great for spotting rhino in the beautiful flatland landscapes. Rich in birdlife as well, the protected nature reserves will leave any birdwatcher grinning from ear to ear. The mountainous region will fulfil any adrenaline junkie’s need for adventure, with rafting and mountain biking activities. A plethora of walking trails and hiking routes, ensure a grand view of the stunning landscapes.

Winter temperatures from May to September, range between 25 and 28°C during the day and 10 and 15°C at night. While summer temperatures average 30°C during the day and 18°C at night.

Zambia is known for some of the best safari experiences out there. A land where nature roams in its wild state and waterfalls fall from rushing rivers. The scenic landscape stretches far and promises spectacular sunsets.

The rainy season stretches from November to April and the dry season between May to June and October to November. The monthly average temperatures remain above 20°C over most of the country for eight or more months of the year.

Zimbabwe’s scenic landscape boasts abundant animal life, making it an outdoor lover’s dream. Known for the iconic Victoria Falls, discover its other breathtaking places like the Lake Kariba, Mana Pools and Hwange National Park, Zimbabwe will certainly impress.

The climate is tropical. Seasonal temperatures vary between 14°C to 21°C on average with about 8 hours of sunshine per day and never below 6 hours during the rainy season.