Exotic Faraway Places

South Africa

Introduction

"Welcome to the world in one country, South Africa has something for everyone"
No other country can offer the same diversity and variety that South Africa is known for - beautiful scenery, cosmopolitan cities, pristine coastline, fertile winelands, magnificent mountain ranges and outstanding game viewing. And if this is not enough, the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls, the wilderness of Botswana and the contrasts of Namibia and Tanzania are just a short journey away.

Resorts
Cape Town - The Cape province is considered to be one of the most beautiful places in the world. Cape Town lies at the foot of the majestic Table Mountain and offers a variety of things to do and see. A selection of shops abound including elegant shopping malls, antique shops, art galleries and specialist boutiques. If you tire of the city buzz spend a day relaxing on the beach or hire a car and explore the famous winelands of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franshhoek.
Sun City - A place to experience everything in unabashed luxury from beach life at the Valley of the Waves with its large-scale wave machine, to the imaginatively lost city - an introduction to a mythical ancient civilisation. There are water activities to satisfy any sporting enthusiast, and the Bridge of Time leads from the Lost City into the Entertainment Centre, South Africa's answer to Las Vegas.
Johannesburg - This is the country's capital and largest city. Within easy driving distance is the 'untamed Africa' with some of the country's finest game reserves. Go into the Kruger National Park on Safari and see the animals that roam this exciting country. Visit Mpumalanga and see the spectacular scenery with sub- tropical vegetation, vast mountain ranges, forests and waterfalls that make an exceptional region of natural beauty.
Zimbabwe - One of the most beautiful countries on earth, boasting a profusion of
wildlife and single of the world's greatest and most spectacular natural wonders- the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. The beautiful Lake Karriba attracts plenty of local wildlife and the superb Matobo, Bulawayo or Hwange National Parks help round off a truly once in a life time experience.

Accommodation
The range of hotels and safaris span from economy comforts in city settings to luxurious lodges in private game reserves; from traditional hospitality in country lodges to ultra-modem deluxe hotels, the meal basis in each varies and as such caters for every individual needs.

Excursions
There is so much to do and see in South Africa that it would be impossible to list all the excursions available. The ideal holiday would be to do a 2 or 3 centre holiday. Here are a few suggestions:

The Blue Train
This is a unique way to see South Africa, it is one of the worlds finest hotels except it moves from destination to destination enabling you to experience more of South Africa's spectacular scenery.
The Flight of Angels
The Flight of Angels: a 15-minute light aircraft trip over the Victoria Falls, a truly awesome sight that moved renowned explorer, David Livingstone, to say" a scene so beautiful must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight."

Safaris
A trip to South Africa would not be complete without a visit to one of the country's outstanding game reserves. A minimum two nights stay is recommended for a true safari experience. The best time of year for big game viewing is July to October when the grass is low and water is sparse. November to May is excellent for bird viewing.

Car Hire
Car hire will allow you the freedom to experience and enjoy the range of landscapes and climates. The country has one of the most efficient highway systems in Africa and it is exceptionally easy for Irish drivers to acquaint themselves with road signs, as they are all in English and they drive on the left hand side of the road.
If you do choose car hire take a trip along the Celebrated Garden Route which stretches 225km's between Mossel Bay and Storms River offering the stunning beauty of secluded coves, lagoons, mountains and forests.

Climate
The country generally enjoys a pleasant climate all year round, mid summer runs from December to January and mid winter runs from June to July. However the size and diversity of South Africa does mean that the climate varies from region to region. The Cape has a Mediterranean-style climate with warm, sunny summers and mild, changeable winters when most of the rainfall occurs. The North is generally dry and warm, with hot summers and cool mornings and evenings in winter. Africa can therefore be the perfect winter or summer destination.

Documents
A standard 10 year Irish or EU Passport is required for all travel and must be valid for at least six months after your return date. Visas are not required for travel within South Africa, however they may be needed if you wish to include travel elsewhere.

Innoculations
Necessary inoculations vary depending on the region visited. Malaria tablets are advised mainly for the game reserves, your local doctor will be able to advise you which inoculations are recommended once you advise him of your itinerary.

Holiday Options
South Africa offers a full range of holidays to suit all tastes. Excellent beaches, superb countryside, exciting cities, safari parks, mountain resorts and superb sporting opportunities. Another great opportunity is to combine the cities and wildlife of South Africa with the beach and relaxation of Mauritius, an Indian Ocean gem - We would be happy to discuss this with you or any other itinerary you might prefer.