Introduction
South Africa is a land of breathtaking beauty and diversity. From bustling cities and wild game reserves to stunning beaches and majestic mountain ranges. The prospect of visiting South Africa might seem daunting at first, due to the scale of the country, but it is still possible to have a fantastic experience on a one-week holiday in South Africa. Here, we’ll explore what South Africa has to offer, give tips to plan your itinerary, and recommend some places that are not to be missed.
Overview of South Africa’s Diverse Landscapes and What They Offer
South Africa is a huge country and each region has its own unique landscapes and activities to offer. The Western Cape has a fantastic mix of city and nature. Most notably, Cape Town and the iconic Table Mountain where you can take a cable car or hike to the top to take in the breathtaking views of the city and coastline. The Eastern Cape offers travellers some of the country’s best beaches, and the picturesque Garden Route, a stunning stretch of coastline dotted with small, charming towns.
KwaZulu-Natal is a coastal South African province that gives you the unique opportunity to explore Zulu culture. This province also includes two UNESCO World Heritage Sites: iSimangaliso Wetland Park and uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park. The Northern Cape is a sparsely populated region boasting some of the country’s most beautiful landscapes. Such as The Big Hole, a man-made mining spectacle that saw three tonnes of diamonds excavated from it, which has now flooded with 400 metres of water to create a sight that needs to be seen to be believed.
Tips On How to Make the Most Out of Your Seven-Day Stay in South Africa
To make the most of your one-week stay in South Africa we recommend focussing on one or two regions. For example, you could spend three days in Cape Town, exploring its museums, gardens, and historic landmarks. Then, head to the Winelands and spend a few days tasting some locally produced wines, before moving onto the Eastern Cape and soaking up the sun on one of the region’s serene beaches. Or start with a city break in Johannesburg and explore its history and township of Soweto, before heading to a nearby game reserve for a safari and wildlife adventure.
Accommodation Options for Those Looking for Affordable or Luxury Stays
There are plenty of accommodation options from pocket-friendly to luxury in South Africa. Guesthouses and self-catering cottages are ideal for travellers looking for value who want to meet locals and immerse themselves in the culture. If you want to see the local wildlife up close you can stay in Kruger National Park which offers over 100 guesthouses. While luxury lodges and boutique hotels are perfect for those who want to be pampered and enjoy the finer things in life. These are in high supply in and around Johannesburg.
Exploring South African Cuisine and Popular Dishes Not to Miss!
South Africa is a foodie’s paradise. Try the famous Bunny Chow in Durban, a dish of hollowed-out bread overflowing with curry, originating from the Indian South African community.
Sample some of the country’s other traditional dishes including:
- Bobotie: a blend of spiced meat and fruit.
- Boerewors: beef mince sausage.
- Vetkoek: deep-fried dough balls.
- Koeksister: plaited and fried dough covered in a sticky sweet sauce.
Or perhaps you’ll bag yourself an invitation to a famous Braai. This is a type of barbecue that doubles up as a popular social event in South Africa.
Conclusion
It’s possible to spend many weeks exploring South Africa, however, if you are short on time then a one-week trip to South Africa is absolutely possible to explore the diverse landscapes and indulge in the local cultures and cuisine. From the top of Table Mountain to the depths of The Big Hole there is something for everyone in South Africa. The magic of a whistle-stop trip is in the planning. Making yourself a one-week itinerary using our tips will give you the best sightseeing experience to make the most of every moment.
To plan your one-week holiday to South Africa from start to finish, including flights, transport, day trips, excursions and accommodation, call Silver Travel Advisor on 0800 412 5678.
