I must confess: South Africa wasn’t at the top of my personal travel list. This was despite my love for the continent. Stories and headlines had shaped my perceptions, and I wondered if my hesitation was justified. So, for the sake of my clients – and my own curiosity – I packed my bags and set out to experience South Africa first-hand, determined to discover if it truly lives up to the hype.
Why I Chose to Go: For You, and to Challenge Myself
Although I’m no stranger to Africa, something about South Africa gave me pause. I’d often heard tales of beauty and hospitality, but also of challenges and risks. But, deep down, I had to ask: were these fears grounded in reality, or were they simply the leftovers of outdated stories?
This trip wasn’t a spontaneous holiday or a box-ticking exercise – it was a deliberate mission to understand and educate myself about South Africa. I wanted to see if I could recommend this destination with confidence, knowing first-hand what the experience truly feels like.
First Impressions: Warmth, Welcome, and a Shift in Perspective
Even before leaving Australia, as we were welcomed onboard the South African Airlines flight in Perth, I found myself starting to relax.
From the moment I landed, my preconceptions began to unravel. The air was tinged with the scent of rain on red earth, and the airport staff’s easy smiles dissolved any tension I’d carried on the flight. Transfers were efficient and friendly. With every greeting there was a palpable sense of pride. I had the strong feeling that everyone I met wanted me to see their country at its best.
Safari: An Intimate Encounter with the Wild
Many people come to South Africa for safari—and with good reason. The wildlife encounters here are intense, unfiltered, and often deeply personal. One highlight that stands out above all: tracking cheetahs on foot with a specialist guide. It’s an experience that sets your heart pounding in your chest, every sense heightened, as you quietly navigate the bush following fresh prints. When we finally spotted the trio of cheetahs, the world seemed to pause. No window between us, just me, the guides, and the rustle of grass where Africa’s fastest hunters lay.
Then we watched a leopard, high in a tree, devouring its kill. The crunch of bones, the powerful muscles flexing above us, the absolute silence of everyone in the vehicle – those are the moments that stay with you long after you leave.
The real game-changer was staying in a private reserve. With far fewer vehicles, we had the space and time to linger, to ask questions, and to witness nature’s drama unfold without crowds or pressure.
Life at the Lodge: Comfort, Care, and Connection
I visited many lodges, some we stayed at, some just to have a sticky-beak at. All were comfortable, clean and offered an extremely high level of service. They all seemed to melt into the surrounding environment, using sustainability and nature as their focus.
Walking back to my room in the crisp night air, I never once felt uneasy. By contrast, I just felt a sense of peace, the distant call of nocturnal animals, and a strange but comforting feeling of belonging.
Cape Town & the Winelands: Culture, Colour, and Culinary Surprises
Leaving the bush behind, Cape Town offered a different kind of thrill. The city is vibrant, creative, and impossibly scenic, with Table Mountain rising over neighbourhoods rich in history and colour. I loved having the time to speak with our guides as they shared stories of resilience and renewal for their country, that they were fiercely proud of.
I wandered through bustling markets, listened to enthusiastic buskers, sampled some amazing food and could have spent LOTS of money on great artisan creations.
Just a short drive from the city, the Winelands offered a feast for the senses. Rolling vineyards, elegant estates, and leisurely tastings of bold reds and crisp whites – each glass paired with local cheeses, fresh breads, or hand-crafted chocolates. Even if you’re not a wine enthusiast, the slower pace and spectacular views are reason enough to visit.
Who Should Consider South Africa (and What You Need to Know)
So, who is South Africa for? In my view, it’s ideal for couples craving romance, families seeking education, and small groups looking for adventure with a love for authenticity. Together, the wildlife, culture, food, and scenery offer an unmatched variety of experiences.
If you’re concerned about safety, I can confidently say that with the right planning, South Africa feels as secure as any major travel destination I’ve visited. Private reserves, reputable hotels, and experienced guides make all the difference.
The Truth I Learned: Why South Africa Isn’t What You Think
This journey forced me to confront my own bias – and I’m grateful for it. South Africa is so much more than its old reputation. South Africa welcomes you with open arms, dazzles you with incredible wildlife, challenges your expectations, and leaves you wanting more.
My top tip? If you can, treat yourself to a private game reserve. The sense of calm, the exclusivity, and the direct connection with nature is priceless. You feel the difference in every moment—no crowds, no rush, just you and the wild. But be warned: the lodges aren’t fully designed for twin-share arrangements. Sure, they have twin beds, but the bathrooms are often open. It takes a bit of negotiating and consideration of your roomy, but it’s not an insurmountable problem.
Practical advice: tipping is appreciated but not complicated, local guides are exceptional, and safety protocols are robust. They handled every detail seamlessly, allowing me to focus entirely on the experience.
Would I recommend it? Wholeheartedly. Actually, I’m already planning a small group tour there next year – who’s interested in joining me?