It's a happy coincidence that many of South Africa’s highlights lie upon a clearly defined, easily navigable route, a coincidence that makes it a great destination for first-time visitors.
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South Africa
The Winelands of Paarl
The perfect jumping off spot for your visit to South Africa: five direct flights a day from London touch down in Cape Town, and it is a cosmopolitan city that introduces you to the unique blend of Europe and Africa that defines the Cape Region.
This part of South Africa is definitely a self-drive destination. Good roads, right-hand drive, not too much traffic (outside the cities!) – but don’t collect your hire car as soon as you arrive: you’ll will have just come off an overnight flight.
It’s much easier to have a private transfer to your hotel in Cape Town, and spend the first few days exploring Cape Town by taxi and bus before having a hire car delivered.
Make sure you take in the iconic Table Mountain, and Robben Island which holds such a key place in the history of apartheid.
Once the car has been delivered, definitely take a full day to drive down to Cape Point, exploring the Cape Peninsula on the way.
If it’s whale season (July – December) head for nearby Hermanus, where you can either see them close to the shore or via an organised whale watching boat trip. If time is short, Hermanus is close enough so that you can just visit for the day.
Whatever the season, the wine estates and restaurants of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek should be on your itinerary.
However, fashions and standards change, so it’s best to speak to us to make sure you’re wine tasting at the best estates and eating in the best restaurants.