The Oyster Box Durban
In Durban’s ritzy Umhlanga Rocks suburb just north of downtown, The Oyster Box is the most luxe resort in the area. Decked out with a fusion of colonial European and Mediterranean styles, it has an old-world elegance about it this is the kind of hotel where doors are opened by uniformed men in pith helmets.
Located right on a pretty stretch of gold sand beach near a lighthouse, the pool area facing the sea is particularly alluring, with red-and-white striped cushions and sun loungers, and matching hued umbrellas.
Rooms and suites are individually decorated and come in a few different classes, but some have views of the sea and lighthouse from private balconies. Amenities include an award-winning spa and a few different dining options.
Address: 2 Lighthouse Road, Umhlanga Rocks 4319 South Africa
African Safari Vacations All Inclusive Holiday Of Your Dreams
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The idea of an African vacation conjures dreams of beige and khaki , sunset drives, wild animals roaring and running, and a campfire under a blanket of stars. There are African safari vacations with all inclusive experiences that could provide you with exactly what you want.
In the past, this may have been farfetched due to expenses and how time-consuming planning the trip may have been. However, tour providers have made it their mission to make all-inclusive safari holidays accessible to everyone. All you need to do is find the one that sounds like one of your preferred trip ideas.
Luckily, you dont have to spend hours scouring the internet as this post has done that for you. Take a look at the best all-inclusive trips to Africa as well as the resorts that will make your safari experiences incredible.
Where Should I Go On My South Africa Trip
A good starting point on South Africa tours is Cape Town, a cosmopolitan and modern city surrounded by incredible natural landscapes like Table Mountain and a multitude of beautiful beaches. Table Mountain dominates the city and hovers over not only the downtown core but also the near lying suburbs. It can be reached by cable car and offers amazing views of the surrounding area. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is a bustling shopping, dining and entertainment neighbourhood and a pleasant place to simply stroll around or enjoy a meal or a drink. Robben Island, a short ferry ride from the city, is where Nelson Mandela spent many years incarcerated and is now UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens have some of the most beautiful unique flora anywhere and around 2000 plant species are grown here. One of the most interesting cultural attractions in Cape Town is the District Six Museum, a memorial to the forced movement of inhabitants of various races in District Six during Apartheid in the seventies shown in photographs, recordings and testimonials. A must visit from Cape Town on South Africa travel is the Cape of Good Hope which offers awesome breathtaking scenery, great walks and some 250 different species of birds. Its rocky promontory is where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet with sheer cliffs plunging into the pounding ocean. Make sure to see the fascinating penguins at Boulders Beach en route.
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Thornybush Game Lodge Kruger National Park
The Thornybush Game Lodge is set on a private reserve in the Kruger National Park Area and offers a luxury safari experience that is also family friendly.
The resort has 20 suites, two of which are family suites. All have spacious living areas and private decks that face the seasonal Monwana River.
Rates are inclusive of two daily safaris at dawn and dusk. Guests can also opt for walking safaris, which often take you very close to the animals. Meals are also included. Other amenities at this resort include a spa and a swimming pool.
Address: Guernsey Road Thornybush Main Gate, Kruger National Park 1380 South Africa
History Of South Africa
South Africa, as we know it today, is barely more than 100 years old and was originally a creation of the British Empire, who had colonized many parts of southern Africa, conquered indigenous tribes such as the Zulus in order to take control of more territory.
Historically, this part of the African continent had been inhabited by various different indigenous communities such as San, Khoikhoi and eventually, after their expansion, the Bantu peoples. In fact, South Africa is home to some of the oldest evidence of the existence of mankind in the world, such as in the caves of Sterkfontein, sometimes referred to as the Cradle of Humankind and an unmissable sight on a tour of South Africa. Before British involvement in South Africa, Dutch settlers had colonized parts of the country following their arrival in 1652. South Africa was valued, not only for its rich diamond and gold reserves but also for its important location on the trade route from Europe to Asia. British and Dutch, or Boer as they were known, colonialists clashed over territory resulting in the Anglo-Boer War of 1899, a major conflict resulting in huge losses for both sides.
In 1992 a referendum ended apartheid, following ongoing negotiations between the recently freed Nelson Mandela and President F. W. de Klerk. Today, South Africa continues to strive towards complete racial equality and, on the whole, looks to the future with optimism.
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What Are The Best Things To See And Do In South Africa
Although the main attraction is no doubt the natural beauty on a South African vacation, the visitor can also enjoy the many wildlife reserves suitable for South Africa safaris, outdoor pursuits, historical sites, wine tasting, local arts and crafts, art galleries and museums plus much more. Some interesting facts are South Africa has the deepest mine in the world, the highest commercial bungee jump, 2000 shipwrecks along its coastline, some more than 500 years old and some of the worlds oldest fossils. Table Mountain has more than 1500 different species of plants and Kruger Park has the greatest variety of wildlife on the continent of Africa.
Leopard Hills Private Game Reserve Kruger National Park
On the private Sabi Sand Game Reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park , Leopard Hills is a 5-star property set on a rocky outcrop with fabulous views of the bush, plains, and an active water hole below.
Rates include safari game drives as well as meals, and the quality of the food is excellent. If you are visiting South Africa for a honeymoon, Leopard Hills excels in the romance department. Private dinners can be arranged in your room, and you can follow this with a candlelit bath.
Address: Kruger National Park 1242, South Africa
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Cheetah Plains Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Opened just a few years ago, Cheetah Plains has a different feel then many traditional South African safari lodges.
In the exclusive Sabi Sand Game Reserve, it has a very modern look about it, and offers guests accommodation in private villas that can sleep up to eight people. These are a perfect choice for groups of friends or multi-generational families vacationing together. Each villa has four bedrooms, a chef’s kitchen, walls of windows that open onto furnished patios, and a private swimming pool.
Cheetah Plains prides itself on sustainability, and the included twice daily game drives take place in private electric Land Cruisers. Guests also have access to a Nikon D850 camera with a complimentary memory card, allowing you to capture incredible photographs. All meals and beverages at this 5-star property are included in the rate.
Address: Sabi Sand Game Reserve S36, Kruger National Park 1383, South Africa
The Twelve Apostles Hotel And Spa Cape Town
Set between the mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, The Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa is a classic Cape Town 5-star hotel, with an old-world, elegant vibe throughout. Located past Camps Bay and just across the street from Oudekraal Beach at the edge of Table Mountain National Park, it features country luxe decor, with wallpapered walls and patterned bedspreads, upholstered furnishings, and reproduction antiques.
The on-site restaurant, Azure, does one of the city’s most expansive breakfast buffets each morning, and for guests, it is included in the rate. There are also two swimming pools, a workout room, and a spa.
Guests can catch the free shuttle to the V& A Waterfront for easy access to downtown Cape Town.
Address: Victoria Road Cape Town, Camps Bay 8000 South Africa
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Namib Desert Camping Safari
Namibia, found in Southern Africa, is a country like no other. It has one of the sparsest human populations in the world in an arid landscape of dunes.
Even the smell of the country is unique and wonderful. The kind of smell where, when you randomly experience it while in a hallway halfway across the world, will mentally transport you back to this adventure.
On this safari, you wont just see animals in their natural habitat. Youll also climb the famous Dune 45 and look out over endless dunes on one side and the sea on your other. From there, youll take an excursion out to Sesriem Canyon and see the desert in the early light of dawn.
While the heat can be intense in the summers, the tour is well organized to avoid the worst of it and keep you comfortable. You can find out more about this and other safari options in Namibia.
Singita Boulders Lodge Sabi Sand Game Reserve
Located next to the Sand River in the privately owned Sabi Sand Game Reserve next to Kruger National Park, Singita Boulders Lodge was inspired by the boulder strewn riverbank on which it sits. The luxury resort blends effortlessly into its surroundings and features beautifully designed public spaces, as well as 12 glass-fronted suites.
The suites have hand-crafted furnishings, African-style fabrics in rich colors and textures, fireplaces, and private decks. They also come with heated swimming pools and outdoor showers.
Rates are all-inclusive, and on your private twice daily game drives, you’ll often encounter harder-to-spot animals like leopards and wild dogs.
Address: Singita Sabi Sand, Kruger National Park 1242, South Africa
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What Is The Best Way To See Victoria Falls
While Victoria Falls can be seen from both Zambia and Zimbabwe, the best way to see the falls depends on the time of year. Zimbabwe offers the best year-round views, with dramatic mist and spray from April to June , clearer views from July to August and still-active falls through the fall and winter. Zambia offers clearer, mist-free views from July to August, though the falls here can run dry from October to December. For thrill seekers, the best way to see Victoria Falls is from the Devils Pool, which juts out to the very edge of the falls and is only accessible from September to November, when water levels are at their lowest.
The Silo Hotel Cape Town
Located in beautiful Cape Town, The Silo Hotel has a central location and is Cape Town’s swankiest new resort. Set in the V& A Waterfront area, where you’ll find dozens of restaurants, shops, and the ferry to Robben Island, it occupies an old grain elevator and has an edgy modern design throughout.
Expect gorgeously decorated rooms and suites with the most Instagram famous bathtubs in the city they face giant pillowed glass windows with views of the harbor, Table Mountain, and the city. Lots of local art is also incorporated around the property.
Amenities include a rooftop restaurant adjacent to a swimming pool, with glass sides and stunning city views. If you are in need of some pampering, book a massage or body treatment at the spa.
Address: Silo Square V & A Waterfront, Cape Town Central 8001, South Africa
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Reviews For South Africa Tours And Vacations
Fantastic memories I will ALWAYS cherish S Africa
Lita T
This trip was fantastic. It was packed with lots of activities and places to see. Unfortunately, weather plays a big role in what you see and don’t see. We weren’t able to visit Robben Island due to choppy water and couldn’t see much of Victoria Falls due to rain/fog. But I’m not complaining, that’s just how things go. Other than that, the itinerary was very fast paced and we got to see a lot, which was desired. The tour was very organized and our group leader, Ahmet, was very knowledgable of the places we visited. I would recommend the game drive in Botswana over the game drive in South Africa. The food and drink was quite good from the included meals. Ahmet did his best to accomodate everyone. I’d recommend this tour to anyone wanting to see as much as possible in such a short time frame. The schedule is strict but well worth the sights.
Andrew S
Andrew S
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For adult fun, the resort has Xone, a concert space and outdoor nightlife area. The resort also has pop-up dining specials like barbecues and taco night. The Riu offers a nice array of dining options, both in experience and cuisine. Days may consist of leisurely time by the pool, strolling along the white-sand beaches and lingering over dinner without worrying about the time. The two non-buffet restaurants have three dinner seatings each night for which reservations are required. The beach has bright, soft sand and deep blue water. And you definitely wont want to miss a single meal. Additionally, rates include all food and beverage yes, that includes wine, beer and booze , as well as morning and afternoon safaris in open-air vehicles. Families will love all the kids activities and programs.
We may receive commissions on Innclusive made from our chosen links. Whether youve always dreamed of an exotic beach honeymoon Arrica without spring breakers or kids or are lusting after a once-in-a-lifetime safari, all-inclusive resorts package relaxation, pampering, and activities into the perfect romantic vacation. We totally get it. With a movie room, al fresco bathtub, plunge pool and Kakamas South Africa loungers, why would anyone ever want to leave?
Additionally, rates include all food and beverage yes, that includes wine, beer and boozeas well as morning and afternoon safaris in open-air vehicles. Best Unplugged Escape: Petit St. Vincent St.
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The Best Wine Region In South Africa
For oenophiles, some time spent in the Cape Winelands is a must. Besides being South Africas wine growing region, it is also offers magnificent soft scenery with its classic Cape-Dutch homesteads and mountainous backdrop. Its many sumptuous restaurants have earned the Cape Winelands the right to call itself South Africas culinary capital. Apart from a wide choice of wine estate cellars lined with top-class wines, visitors on South African tours can discover a variety of locally produced cheeses, olives, fruit and organic produce to sample and buy. Principal places to visit are Paarl with its breathtaking scenery and the chance to go cycling and or walk on nature trails, Stellenbosch, a pretty University town and Franschhoek with its galleries and antique stores.
The spellbinding scenery along the Panorama Route has to be seen to be believed with its breathtaking vistas around every corner and waterfalls plunging down faces of sheer rock. Blyde River Canyon is the worlds third largest canyon with awe-inspiring views. Scenic landmarks here with names like God’s Window, Wonder View, the Pinnacle, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondawels are all to be wondered at. Nearby is the authentic gold rush town of Pilgrim’s Rest which gives you the chance to relive the 1873 gold rush.
Finally, it is essential to plan your trip to South Africa carefully obviously based on time available and interests. What to leave out could be your hardest decision.
Culture In South Africa
Sometimes referred to as the rainbow nation, this nickname is a testament to South Africas diversity. A total of eleven official languages, including Zulu, Afrikaans, English, and Xhosa, show just how intricate and multi-faceted modern South African culture can be.
Traditional African culture exists mostly in rural areas, whilst the cities have fused westernized and traditional culture to create a vibrant tapestry of urban life, represented in an energetic music and arts scene. If you can incorporate both the modern urban centers and the rural communities into a tour of South Africa, youll be rewarded with a more complete picture of the national culture.
Indigenous communities such as the San and Khoikhoi are known for their artistic heritage. Ancient rock drawings deemed the oldest pieces of art in the world can be linked to these communities. Zulu ethnic groups, who live mainly in the KwaZulu-Natal region, are known for their colorful beadwork, basketry, and beehive-shaped huts. On the other hand, the architecture of major cities such as Pretoria and the towns of the Cape Peninsula exhibit the remnants of European influence in South Africa.
Embrace the vast open spaces, exceptional wildlife and multi-faceted culture of the rainbow nation on a trip to South Africa. From the laid-back surfing beaches of Cape Town to the wilds of Kruger and trend-setting Johannesburg, South Africa needs to be on your bucket list!
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Hot White Sands To Wild
Whether youre soaring over the Maasai Mara plains in a hot-air balloon, searching for the Big Five in the scorched Serengeti plains, enjoying barefoot luxury on the glistening white sands of the coast or toasting your adventures with a glass of bubbly in the Cape Winelands, youll be spoilt for choice on all-inclusive Africa holiday.
Blessed with an enormous coastline of stunning beaches, breathtaking game reserves with unbeatable wildlife spotting, iconic mountains, extraordinary safari lodges and a wealth of unique experiences, going on all inclusive holiday in Africa is a fantastic option for wallet-free, care-free time and lots of little extras.
The remoteness of safari lodges makes all-in a smart option. You can expect romantic bush breakfasts, afternoon safari picnics and day and night game drives. In South Africas Garonga Safari Camp your all-inclusive gives you a night of stargazing on the bewitching Sleep-Out treehouse experience, award-winning in the Maasai Mara offers morning and evening game drives, a banquet on the river and nightly dips in the luxurious outdoor Amani Spa pool whilst deep in the heart of Botswana at Camp Okavango theres mokoro canoe and motorboat safaris through a network of tranquil waterways. In search of spectacular beaches, Mozambiques Anantara Bazaruto’s jewel-like archipelago of endless sands and stunning dunes is the perfect place for all-inclusive romantic beach retreat.