The Cape
This is a vast and beautiful area of South Africa - from rugged stretches of coastline, to tall desert sand dunes, rolling winelands, the sprawling beauty of wildflowers in Namaqualand, the laid back vibe of Muizenberg beach to the breathtaking views from atop of Table Mountain...the Cape seems like a country on its own. Prior to 1994 this enitre diverse region was known as the Cape - today it is divided into: the Western Cape, Eastern Cape and Northern Cape.
Western Cape
In the Western Cape you will discover world-class wines, wonderful whale watching, contrasting landscapes, ample adventure options, as well as the magic of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, which meet at Africa's most southerly point.
The Western Cape is home to the world's longest wine route, found along Route 62, a scenic tourist route that runs from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, 850km up the eastern coast. If you don't have time to complete the whole route, consider visiting the wine-growing areas of Stellenbosch, Paarl, Wellington, Franschhoek, Ceres, Worcester, Bonnievale and Robertson.
Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape, is a place of rugged beauty. Its pristine coastline, virgin bush and sub-tropical forests exist as though untouched by time. It’s the home of Africa’s Big Five and South African surfing, and the birthplace of Nelson Mandela. It boasts many natural, historical and cultural attractions and activities.
Its natural diversity is second to none: the Eastern Cape incorporates parts of all 7 ecological zones that occur in South Africa and features all 3 of the country's biodiversity regions, which is further enhanced by its 820 kilometres of untamed, if not wild, coastline.
Visit Tsitsikamma and do the world's highest commercial bridge bungee jump or renowned Otter Trail; see the Sundays River Valley with the world-famous Greater Addo Elephant National Park and 120 000 hectare marine reserve; or stop over at the aptly named Wild Coast, birthplace of Nelson Mandela and home to the Nelson Mandela Museum.
Northern Cape
If you love wide open spaces, wild flowers or Africa’s big cats, you’ll love South Africa’s Northern Cape province. Among its many attractions, the Northern Cape is home to one of the world’s most important diamond mining towns, most impressive natural floral display, and famous black-maned lions.
Most of the Northern Cape province lies south of the mighty Orange River and comprises desert and semi-desert landscapes. The province is characterised by vast arid plains with outcroppings of rocks, with the cold Atlantic Ocean forming its western boundary. During August and September, the area of Namaqualand, is transformed into a brilliant carpet of wild flowers. This region is world-famous for its floral exuberance and photographic safaris to the area are very popular.