All of this and more you can experience in South Africa, the perfect destination for your next adventure! We have compiled a list of our top 5 experiences with inspiration for first-time visitors and travellers planning their return to the Rainbow Nation.

1. Walking Safaris

Walking safaris offer a unique and intimate way to connect with South Africa’s incredible wildlife and immerse yourself in its natural beauty. For example, the Plains Camp at Rhino Walking Safaris is the ideal place to experience the thrill of seeing the infamous big five in the bush on foot, without sacrificing the comforts of a plunge pool and en-suite tent at the end of the day. Many of South Africa’s National Parks and Game Reserves can be enjoyed the way they were meant to be, safe in the knowledge that your expert guides give guests an unforgettable experience. Sample wild fruits, understand tracking techniques and learn about the incredible biodiversity South Africa has to offer.

2. Hot Air Ballooning

A hot air balloon ride is the ultimate way to admire South Africa’s expansive views, with the peace and clarity that comes from floating above the earth. Traverse the majestic Drakensberg region from the Amphitheatre in Northern Drakensberg, spotting wild kudu, giraffes and zebras from the sky, all the way to Giants Castle in Southern Drakensberg.

As an alternative, head to Magaliesburg a 1.5-hour drive from Johannesburg to discover the beauty of a mountain range that is almost 100 times older than Mount Everest. Recently declared a World Biosphere Reserve, take to the skies alongside the Cape Vulture to experience peace and quiet as you take in the panoramic views.

3. Wine Tasting

The oldest uninterrupted wine-growing region in the Southern Hemisphere is the Constantia Valley, a lush green area just a stone’s throw from the centre of bustling Cape Town. Visit one of the local wine estates and enjoy stunning sweeping vistas of the rolling hills and False Bay with a glass of Sauvignon Blanc in hand or even treat yourself to a meal. Alternatively, head a bit further afield to the famed Winelands, where the picturesque towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek sit beneath the mountains. Sample red, white and rose wines whilst learning about the soil, cultivation and practices that have produced world-acclaimed vintages from proud South African guides. With an abundance of five-star hotels, spas and restaurants, there is bound to be a vintage for everyone.

4. Beach Horse Riding

Off the famous coast road from Cape Town to the Cape of Good Hope, sits the white sand Noordhoek Beach, famed for its grassy sand dunes, ancient shipwreck and seasonal lagoons. Amble along the shoreline on horseback, splashing through the lagoons or trotting through the sand dunes with the majestic Chapman’s Peak and the mountains towards Simon’s Town rounding off the scene. The rides offer an incredible perspective of the sparkling ocean, the Kakapo wreck and the stunning scenery. If you’re planning to spend some time on the East Coast, spend a morning on the sandy Warner Beach, exploring the beach on horseback.

5. Golf

South Africa boasts some of the best golf courses in the southern hemisphere, allowing golfers to tee off in front of stunning views of mountains and the ocean. Steenberg Golf Club in Constantia, with its five-star hotel, is a great option close to Cape Town, whose course sits against the backdrop of the iconic Table Mountain. If you’re looking for something more extreme, visit Legends Golf and Safari Resort in Limpopo, where, at the famous par 3 ‘Extreme 19th” hole, you tee off from the top of a cliff and get there via helicopter.

For more information about South Africa visit www.southafrica.net or head to Inspire my Holiday to start planning your next South African adventure.