21 April 2025

South Africa is a country of contrasts — wild bushlands, sophisticated wineries, serene coastlines, and rugged mountains. Our recent two-week trip took us through all of it, starting with a self-drive safari in Kruger National Park and ending with wine and relaxation near Cape Town. Whether you're planning your first trip to South Africa or looking for inspiration beyond the usual routes, here's a look into our unforgettable journey. Kruger National Park: The Big Five, Up Close We kicked off our trip with a self-drive adventure through Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s most iconic wildlife reserves. There's nothing quite like spotting a leopard lounging in a tree or a herd of elephants crossing the road right in front of your car. Over a few days, we were lucky enough to see all of the Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo — plus giraffes, zebras, and countless birds. Driving ourselves gave us the freedom to explore at our own pace, and the thrill of spotting wildlife without a guide made every sighting feel even more magical. We stayed in a mix of rest camps and bush lodges, waking up to the sounds of the savannah. Franschhoek: Wine Tram Magic From Kruger, we traded the wild for wine, heading to Franschhoek, a charming town known for its vineyards and French-inspired heritage. The Franschhoek Wine Tram is a must — a hop-on, hop-off tour that lets you soak in the scenery (and the wine) without having to worry about driving. Each vineyard had its own vibe, from grand estates to cosy tasting rooms, and the views of the surrounding mountains made the perfect backdrop for long, lazy lunches. Cederberg Mountains: Ancient Rock Art & Remote Luxury Next, we made our way to the Cederberg Mountains, staying at the stunning Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve. Remote and peaceful, this was one of the most special stops of our trip. The landscapes here are rugged and dramatic — think red rocks, clear streams, and starry skies. Bushmans Kloof also offers guided walks to see San rock art, some of which is thousands of years old. It’s a place where nature and history come together, and the lodge itself is a haven — luxurious yet deeply connected to the land. West Coast National Park: Seaside Solitude in Langebaan From the mountains, we headed west to the coast, staying in The Farmhouse Hotel in Langebaan near the West Coast National Park. This stretch of South Africa is quieter and less visited, but it’s absolutely worth the detour — especially during spring wildflower season. We spent our days walking coastal trails, watching flamingos in the salt pans, and enjoying deserted beaches. The tranquillity here is a different kind of beauty — simple, open, and soul-soothing. Final Stop: Steenberg Hotel Near Cape Town We wrapped up our journey at the elegant Steenberg Hotel, set in a historic vineyard estate just outside Cape Town. Since we’d explored Cape Town on a previous trip, this time was about slowing down — enjoying the estate’s wine, dining at Tryn, and reflecting on our adventure. Steenberg was the perfect blend of luxury and familiarity — a soft landing before the flight home. Final Thoughts This trip through South Africa offered such a rich mix of experiences — thrilling wildlife encounters, world-class wine, ancient culture, and quiet, untamed nature. It’s a country that invites you to explore deeply, and rewards you with stories you’ll want to tell forever. If you're planning a South African journey and want a bit of everything — safari, wine, mountains, and coast — this itinerary might just be the dream.