South Africa has always been one of our top destinations, and for many good reasons. Our founder, Leora Rothschild, is originally from South Africa. She was first inspired by the safari experience here, and it’s a perennial favorite with our staff and travelers alike due to the wildlife, dining, history, scenery, and ability to accommodate multi-generational travelers.

Wildlife

 

South Africa is well known for its world class wildlife, including the Big 5 (African lion, African elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard, and rhinoceros). Jessica even saw a wild turkey here on Thanksgiving day! We recommend the Sabi Sand Reserve or Timbavati. Madikwe is an excellent option for people traveling with their children, as it is malaria free. As you move towards the shores, you can see a penguin colony frequents Cape Town, can spot whales from Hermanus, or even take a shark dive to get up close with the wildlife of the ocean. Spotting sharks and whales is a beautiful experience.

Diverse Experiences

Were you hoping to have an experience beyond the incredible wildlife? South Africa delivers.

For history buffs, there are Robben Island tours and museum visits, and you can also enjoy touring Stellenbosch, the second oldest city in South Africa, enjoying the scenery, canal lined avenues, and the Cape Dutch homesteads.

If you just want to enjoy beautiful scenery, I would recommend driving along the Garden Route, famous for its hardy fynbos floral kingdom, and stunning views. Alternatively hike or bike up Table Mountain in Cape Town.

Dining

cape-town-food

If you want to spark a friendly debate in the Rothschild Safaris office, ask what the best restaurants are in Cape Town and Cape Winelands. Enjoy an elaborately crafted fine dining experience complete with locally sourced foods at Signal Restaurant in Cape Town or The Tasting Room in Franschoek. For a more casual experience, try Bacini, an Italian place that has a very local feel and Jessica’s favorite. Or experiment with any restaurant from this list by EatOut.

Family Friendly Travel

children on family safari

There are a plethora of children-friendly accommodations in South Africa, with many lodges and hotels offering babysitting services, special children’s activities such as pizza baking, coloring or even learning special skills like archery or woodcarving.

South Africa boasts malaria-free reserves such as Madikwe, so you can take children of all ages without worrying about malaria.

Call 800-405-9463 (USA) or 61-7-5455-4243 (AUS) to chat with us about why this is one of our top picks for 2016.