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Discover the "Big Five" as part of your South African trek
Wild and tamed. Affluent and impoverished. Ancient and avant-garde. Often referred to as "a world in one country," South Africa is a land of beguiling contrasts and endless possibilities. Where else can you straddle two mighty oceans (Indian and Atlantic), view the first traces of humanity, tour one of the largest wine-producing regions in the world, and luxuriate in a boutique game lodge after scoring snapshots of the "Big Five" (elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and buffalo)?
Though the country hasn't fully emerged from the hangover of apartheid, the Republic of South Africa is a vibrant work in progress, making it an exhilarating place to visit. Within its 471,442 square miles (almost twice the size of Texas), you can explore tribal villages, urban metropolises, and an astounding array of natural wonders. About 192,000 Americans came to the country in 2003, a 25% increase over the previous five years. That same period saw an explosion in the construction of four- and five-star hotels throughout the country. Everywhere you go you can expect to find people who speak or understand English, plus, a dizzyingly favorable exchange rate, which makes the country extremely affordable to visit.
While a country this geographically, politically, and culturally complex certainly demands more than a fortnight's foray, it is possible to compress a visit into a two-week vacation, if you plan wisely. With this amount of time, you can sample the country's highlights – spend about three days in and around Johannesburg, three days on safari in Kruger National Park, then stroll about Cape Town for another three days before taking in day trips to the wine country and cape peninsula for a final hurrah. Stick to our itinerary, and you're in for the perfect trip.
$537+: One-way flights to South Africa from NYC or DC South African Airways
