In The Kingdom Of Wild Animals

At the foot of the imposing Table Mountain lies Cape Town, a lively metropolis and one of the most beautiful cities in the world. The charming blend of Victorian villas on Long Street and modern skyscrapers in the financial district are what give the city its unique character. The popular Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with its boutiques, cafes and excellent restaurants will make visitors’ hearts soar. A cable car ride to the plateau of Table Mountain promises to be an exciting experience and offers a magnificent view over the city and peninsula. This stretches as far as the Cape of Good Hope, where idyllic beach resorts meet unspoilt nature, making Cape Town an even more unforgettable destination.

Sometimes referred to as the Mother City, Cape Town is the most famous port in South Africa and is influenced by many different cultures, including Dutch, British and Malay. The port was founded in 1652 by Dutch explorer Jan Van Riebeeck, and evidence of Dutch colonial rule remains throughout the region. The port is located on one of the world's most important trade routes, and is mainly a container port and handler of fresh fruit. Fishing is another vital industry, with large Asian fishing fleets using Cape Town as a logistical repair base for much of the year. The region is famous for its natural beauty, with the imposing Table Mountain and Lions Head, as well as the many nature reserves and botanical gardens such as Kirstenbosch which boasts an extensive range of indigenous plant life, including proteas and ferns. Cape Town's weather is mercurial, and can change from beautiful sunshine to dramatic thunderstorms within a short period. A local adage is that in Cape Town you can experience four seasons in one day.

Sometimes referred to as the Mother City, Cape Town is the most famous port in South Africa and is influenced by many different cultures, including Dutch, British and Malay. The port was founded in 1652 by Dutch explorer Jan Van Riebeeck, and evidence of Dutch colonial rule remains throughout the region. The port is located on one of the world's most important trade routes, and is mainly a container port and handler of fresh fruit. Fishing is another vital industry, with large Asian fishing fleets using Cape Town as a logistical repair base for much of the year. The region is famous for its natural beauty, with the imposing Table Mountain and Lions Head, as well as the many nature reserves and botanical gardens such as Kirstenbosch which boasts an extensive range of indigenous plant life, including proteas and ferns. Cape Town's weather is mercurial, and can change from beautiful sunshine to dramatic thunderstorms within a short period. A local adage is that in Cape Town you can experience four seasons in one day.

White sand and settled weather – Mossel Bay is the perfect place for a long walk along the surf. This South African harbour town, also known as Mosselbaai, was discovered by Bartolomeu Dias in 1488 when he landed here to take on fresh water. The Dias Museum Complex stands as a reminder to this historic discovery and lets visitors immerse themselves in the past. The name Mossel Bay comes from Dutch traders who noticed the large number of mussels in the bay. Its fascinating history and natural beauty make Mossel Bay a charming destination on the Garden Route.

Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth, offers visitors an inviting atmosphere with its many days of sunshine and long beaches. The coastal resort in the south-east of South Africa was given its new name in 2021, after the isiXhosa name for the Baakens River that flows through the town. Humewood and Summerstrand are particularly popular areas for long walks or watching the sailors and windsurfers. The town is characterised by the brick-red bell tower of the Settlers’ Memorial Campanile, commemorating the first settlers in 1820.

Originally the home of the San and Khoisan people and later the Xhosa tribe, the area now known as Gqeberha (previously Port Elizabeth) became a landing place for passing European ships after Portuguese navigator Bartolomew Diaz arrived in Algoa Bay in 1488. As part of the Cape Colony, the British occupied the area during the Napoleonic Wars and it was they who built Fort Frederick here in 1799. Twenty-one years later 4,000 settlers arrived, becoming the first permanent British residents of South Africa and Gqeberha. Sir Rufane Donkin, Acting Governor of the Cape Colony, founded Port Elizabeth, naming the settlement after his late wife. The town underwent rapid growth after 1873 following the construction of the railway to Kimberley, and is now one of the country’s major seaports. Like most South African cities, miles of beautiful coastline surround Gqeberha. Algoa Bay combines warm water and fair breezes, making it a mecca for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. Those interested in history can follow the Donkin Heritage Trail, past a succession of Victorian and Edwardian town houses, trim gardens and neo-Gothic churches. Just outside the town are a number of game reserves, including the famous Addo Elephant National Park.

Originally the home of the San and Khoisan people and later the Xhosa tribe, the area now known as Gqeberha (previously Port Elizabeth) became a landing place for passing European ships after Portuguese navigator Bartolomew Diaz arrived in Algoa Bay in 1488. As part of the Cape Colony, the British occupied the area during the Napoleonic Wars and it was they who built Fort Frederick here in 1799. Twenty-one years later 4,000 settlers arrived, becoming the first permanent British residents of South Africa and Gqeberha. Sir Rufane Donkin, Acting Governor of the Cape Colony, founded Port Elizabeth, naming the settlement after his late wife. The town underwent rapid growth after 1873 following the construction of the railway to Kimberley, and is now one of the country’s major seaports. Like most South African cities, miles of beautiful coastline surround Gqeberha. Algoa Bay combines warm water and fair breezes, making it a mecca for swimmers and water sports enthusiasts. Those interested in history can follow the Donkin Heritage Trail, past a succession of Victorian and Edwardian town houses, trim gardens and neo-Gothic churches. Just outside the town are a number of game reserves, including the famous Addo Elephant National Park.

The warm winds of the Indian Ocean waft over East London’s golden beaches, while the sea glitters promisingly in the sunlight. The endless expanse of South Africa’s coastline meets the Buffalo River, surfers challenge themselves in the waves and fishing boats gently rock in the surf. The city is packed with history – from traces of the colonial era right up to the present day, when its people still feel a close connection with nature and the sea. Particularly valuable treasures of the past are housed in the East London Museum, including the famous coelacanth fish, a prehistoric species of fish. At Nahoon beach, on the other hand, celebrate the present day, with swimmers, families and water sports enthusiasts all finding their place in the sun.

South Africa’s only river port city is situated on the south-east Indian Ocean coast between the Buffalo and Nahoon Rivers. Its location is widely regarded as one of the most attractive on the Eastern Cape coast and it is ideally placed for exploring the coast towards Port Elizabeth and the surrounding Transkei region. The city you see today was born when the British-built Fort Glamorgan was constructed here in 1847 and it was British governor Sir Harry Smith who named the town London after the Empire’s capital as an open declaration about its promising position as a port. The town later became East London due to its location on the east of the Buffalo River, and in more recent times is sometimes referred to as Buffalo City. East London is renowned for its superb golden beaches such as Eastern, Orient and Nahoon, both popular with surfers, and a variety of places to dine and drink have sprung up along the bustling beachfront. While the city is predominantly modern you can see a number of historic buildings and monuments such as City Hall, whose clock tower commemorates the Diamond Jubilee of Queen Victoria.

Durban, a glistening jewel on the south-east coast of Africa, is the third largest city in South Africa and the major city of KwaZulu-Natal. It has been a centre of sea trade since before colonisation and now has a flourishing artistic centre, which perfectly complements the vibrant markets and rich cultures of the city. Durban’s port is a natural half-moon harbour lined with white sand and azure water, punctuated by the port’s many piers which reach into the water like the leaves of a fan. The beaches of Durban’s famous Golden Mile stretch along the harbour and are popular all year round, as travellers and locals alike enjoy Durban’s warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters.

The lively city of Durban stretches out along the east coast of South Africa. Now the second biggest city in the country, long before the British arrived in 1823, Durban was shaped by its native heritage, as shown by the rock carvings in the Drakensberg mountains. It has since grown into an economic hub with the biggest port in the country, the University of KwaZulu-Natal and a wide range of leisure activities. Long sandy beaches attract the surfers and the beach front is a great place for some sunbathing. Some of the cultural highlights on offer include the Botanic Gardens, the Old Fort and the Juma Masjid Mosque. Durban brings together history with modern life and South African spirit.

Durban, a glistening jewel on the south-east coast of Africa, is the third largest city in South Africa and the major city of KwaZulu-Natal. It has been a centre of sea trade since before colonisation and now has a flourishing artistic centre, which perfectly complements the vibrant markets and rich cultures of the city. Durban’s port is a natural half-moon harbour lined with white sand and azure water, punctuated by the port’s many piers which reach into the water like the leaves of a fan. The beaches of Durban’s famous Golden Mile stretch along the harbour and are popular all year round, as travellers and locals alike enjoy Durban’s warm, humid summers and mild, dry winters.

With its varied architecture, Maputo is a true pearl of the Indian Ocean, with about two million people living in this lively capital city in the south of Mozambique. In 1975 the country gained its independence from Portugal and the city’s buildings still stand as testament to its colonial past. The relics on the outlying islands, including impressive ruined fortresses, old churches and historic buildings, are a real highlight for history lovers. The natural world in Mozambique is also impressive: long coastlines and a rich biodiversity, which you can observe in numerous wildlife parks and nature reserves, will get explorers’ hearts racing.

The city of Maputo was founded towards the end of the 18th century, and is influenced by a variety of cultures including Bantu, Arabian and Portuguese. Surrounded by beautiful colonial architecture and stunning natural scenery, it is an ideal base from which to explore the region. The scars from past wars and conflict are still evident, but the city is clearly regenerating, and the original beauty and cultural attractions of the area can easily be appreciated by visitors.

The region around Port d’Ehoala in south-east Madagascar is one of the most diverse in the country. Nestled between the sea and Pic Saint Louis, you can see an impressive combination of lush natural scenery and cultural heritage here. Tropical rainforests and dry desert landscapes lie close to one another in the Andohahela National Park, which is home to lemurs, birds and exotic plants. Historic remnants like the former Bastion Camp Flacourt stand as witnesses to the region’s long colonial past. A visit to local markets for crafts and seafood round off the experience in Port d’Ehoala and give authentic insights into the traditional way of life here.

The island of Reunion is shaped by an impressive chain of volcanoes, the highest of which, Piton des Neiges and Piton de la Fournaise, stretch high up into the blue sky. The diverse landscape is a paradise for hikers and nature lovers. Thanks to its fascinating biodiversity on the land and underwater and the natural beauty of its scenery, the island has been awarded UNESCO World Heritage Site status. A visit to Reunion will be rounded off with a tasting of Creole cuisine, with its impressive variety and intense flavours.

A diverse paradise in the Indian Ocean awaits on Mauritius. In the heart of the island, be inspired by lush rainforests, spectacular waterfalls and a colourful plant and animal kingdom. Meanwhile, breathtaking beaches and turquoise waters will tempt you back to the coast – it's often just a short car journey from the white sandy beach to the thick jungle. The capital city Port Louis is busy all day long, while the neighbouring Creole villages exude nostalgic charm and tranquillity. The varied history of Mauritius has resulted in a mix of ethnicities and religions, all living together in harmony today. You can even taste the variety: the local cuisine combines elements of French, Indian, Chinese and Creole cooking.

Mauritius’ largest city, Port Louis is a vibrant and exciting place whose culture is a mix of African, Chinese and Indian influences. There are activities and sights to keep you busy and explore the different aspects of the city.