South Africa offers once in a life-time experiences with spectacular scenery, wildlife, adventure, food and wine that suit all budgets. Gus Cheng, the operations/product coordinator for World Expeditions, Australia, shares her insights into this popular destination.
Is there much interest among Australians for travel to South Africa?
Most definitely! We’ve had plenty of interest in South Africa this season from the Australian market and there are plenty of Afrophiles (return customers to the continent) always planning their next adventure to the continent. The local currency, the Rand, has devalued in comparison to the Australian Dollar, which means Aussies are getting excellent value for their money.
Which destinations are most popular?
Kruger National Park and the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa’s north east is a region blessed with dramatic mountains and world class game – making them two of our most popular destinations.
Cape Town is one of the most picturesque and vibrant cities in the world. The majestic Table Mountain is a major draw card for many travellers along with the beautiful beaches, the Boulders Penguin Colony, Robben Island and the V&A Waterfront. It has some of the best food in the world and is a great base to explore the Cape of Good Hope and the Cape Winelands Region.
What kind of places and activities would you recommend?
A safari adventure in Kruger National Park searching for the “Big Five” is the ultimate South African experience. We suggest an adventure that combines walking and driving safaris with experienced game rangers staying in private safari lodges and/or permanent bush camps.
What types of travellers are visiting South Africa?
The travellers going to South Africa are as diverse as the country itself. They include families, couples, honeymooners, wildlife & culture enthusiasts, hikers, wine buffs, and people who simply have it on their ‘bucket list’.
What are the must see attractions?
I’d be looking at an itinerary that encompasses Cape Town, the Garden Route, Kruger National Park, the Drakensberg Mountains, the Kingdom of Swaziland and Zululand.
Are FIT holidays more popular than all – inclusive packaged options?
For the traveller short on time who wants to pack in as much as possible, the all-inclusive packaged options are very popular and good value for money.
World Expeditions’ trips that combine South Africa with other African countries such as Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe & Mozambique (eg. Cape Town to Victoria Falls) are extremely popular, as are the South Africa itineraries from Johannesburg to Cape Town including Kruger National Park and the Drakensbergs.
