8 Highlights of South Africa

The thriving metropolis of South Africa's capital city, Cape Town, situated on the Atlantic Ocean coast, is a hive of activity. For the best views, ascend the sky-high cliffs of Table Mountain by cable car. Or, if you have the energy, follow a hiking trail all the way to the top. The Twelve Apostles mountain range skirts along the shoreline, and Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, sits peacefully in the horseshoe bay. Return to the city, to enjoy an abundance of bars and restaurants and sample the delicious local wines.

The wetlands area of St Lucia is another must-see highlight of South Africa. Embark on a cruise along the sheltered estuary to spot hippos bathing in the shallows and keep a look out for crocodiles lurking beneath the surface. Head to St Lucia beach for a refreshing swim in the ocean and explore the local forest hiking trails before joining a twilight game drive to spot nocturnal wildlife in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

Renowned for shore-based whale watching, Hermanus in South Africa provides one of the best vantage points. Listen out for the bellowing horn of the local whale crier, which signals the arrival of a nearby pod, then make your way to the top of the rugged ocean cliffs. Wander along scenic coastal paths, and look out over the ocean for the chance to see the mighty silhouettes of Southern Right, Bryde and Humpback whale gliding around the bay.

For the best chance of seeing several herds of elephant traipsing across the grassy plains of South Africa, head to Addo Elephant National Park, which is home to over 600 of these majestic giants, as well as Cape buffalo, lion, zebra, endangered black rhino and many bird species. Get up close with the nocturnal wildlife via a viewing platform overlooking an illuminated waterhole at your forest cabin camp, and get up early to join a sunrise game drive through the park in search of lion and hyena.