The benefits of living in Cape Town are not limited to the city itself. You will also have the opportunity to explore a country that boasts countless exceptional destinations for adventurous residents! If you have a few days to embark on a new adventure, there are some fabulous options to consider outside Cape Town and the Western Cape.
Exploring nature around Cape Town
To the north, you will find the gateway to the Kalahari and its fabulous desert, where the last bushmen of Africa still live. In Kimberley, you can trace the story of the discovery of diamonds, or take to the waters of the Orange River in a raft.
To the east, a simple two-hour flight brings you to Kruger Park, one of the largest reserves in Africa. There is an option for every budget, from camping to private accommodation, but whatever you choose, you will be able to experience the joys of safari and game drives.
Have you already seen Kruger? No problem: there are many private reserves all over the country, on the border of Botswana (Madikwe), Pilanesberg or KwaZulu Natal (Hluhluwe Imfolozi) for example.
A few hours drive from Kruger Park is the Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world. Here, you will find breathtaking landscapes, sublime hikes and stunning rock formations.
The region of Johannesburg, although often decried, is still worth a visit, especially for its apartheid museum (the only one in the country), its history of the gold rush and diamonds and SOWETO, the largest Township of South Africa where key events in the country's history have taken place.
For scuba diving fans, consider the east coast: from Umkomas in the south to Sodwana Bay on the border with Mozambique, you can swim with sharks, rays, turtles, whale sharks and more.
The beautiful mountainous region of Drakensberg will have you discovering rock paintings, elands, protected birds of prey, and amazing trout fishing!
Unique in the world, there are actually two landlocked countries in South Africa. Lesotho, the little kingdom under the clouds where you can ski in August, and Swaziland, whose tranquillity and amazing crafts are wonderful to enjoy.
Exploring neighbouring countries
To the far north of Cape Town is Namibia, one of the wildest and least densely populated countries in the world. The diversity of its landscapes is breathtaking. Only a fantastic road trip will allow you to take a full measure of this incredible country. Why not enjoy a safari in the Etosha National Park? Discover rock paintings and the most beautiful petroglyphs in the world. Exchange with the northern Himba tribes. Explore the magnificent falls of Epupa and Ruacana on the border of Angola. The green landscapes of the Caprivi or its neighbours Botswana and Namibia deserve at least three or four weeks of exploration.
Few African countries have preserved their natural flora and fauna as well as Botswana. Chobe Park and the Okavango Delta offer some of the most authentic safari experiences on the continent.
Its direct neighbour to the east is Zimbabwe, also known for its parks, but especially for the mythical and awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. Whether you are exploring on foot, by helicopter or via a cruise on the Zambezi, these sights will remain forever etched in your memory.
Further still to the east, Mozambique, with its idyllic beaches, surf spots, kite-surfing and diving.
Finally, for those with a lot of time on their hands, you have Mauritius, Reunion and Madagascar to discover, just a few hours flight from Johannesburg.
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