South Africa is every photographer’s dream destination and we’ve listed the top five photos you must take in the Rainbow Nation. Also check out this amazing chance to WIN a 15 day trip to South Africa.
There’s much to say about the southern most tip of Africa. It’s a melting pot of various cultures, creeds and credentials making it a top destination for those chasing an endless summer.
It is also home to breath-taking landscapes, warm and vast oceans, wild safaris and a procession of archaeological must-sees.
In short, the only way you can take a bad picture of South Africa is not to put film in the camera.
While the possibilities of snapping the perfect pic are endless, there are a few must-take snaps that would make your South African experience complete.
From wet-nursing a baby turtle to dancing up a storm with the Xhosa, Zulu and Pedi tribes, our list is guaranteed to assure you’ll have a bank of beautiful images to remember your experience.
1. The Safari Selfie
One of the bucket list attractions of South Africa is, of course, the country’s abundant wildlife and what better way to experience it than on safari.
If you’re residing in one of the main cities of South Africa, such as Johannesburg or Pretoria, you won’t have to travel too far to embark on an expedition. Urban reserves a mere hour away from the city’s epicentres.
A must-see, though, would be the country’s famed Kruger Park – one of the world’s first conservation parks.
While there, it is highly recommended to snap the menacing yawn of a hippo. Nothing says safari more than the gaping jaw of a mighty beast.
Lounging lions also rank high on the list, too.
2. Sausage legs by the pool
For those that like a touch of opulence on their annual getaway, South Africa is home to several five star hotels and resorts that are sure to whet the appetites of those seeking the #luxelife.
Situated between the famed Robben Island – where Mandela had been imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years behind bars – and the majestic Table Mountain, the Table Bay At The Waterfront in Cape Town is sure to please.
As a member of Leading Hotels of the World, the Table Bay Hotel boasts world class facilities and amazing views that are coupled with plush and old-world interiors.
Also on the list is the famed 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa.
Nestled into the 12 Apostles Mountain Range, this luxurious venue overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and is so pristine one would be tempted to spend their entire vacation within its parameters.
As a bonus, due to having an ocean in close proximity, dolphin sighting is a possibility.
Both contain sprawling pools and poolside decks perfect for the “cocktail in hand, legs akimbo” shot that makes most of your Facebook followers gag with jealousy.
3. Bird’s eye bungee
South Africa happens to be home to the world’s tallest commercial bridge bungee – The Bloukrans Bridge.
It is 216 metres of pure terror that resides on the border between the East and West Capes.
Those brave enough to be yanked up by a durable chord will look down onto dense greenery and pristine currents before they plummet further and further into the abyss – a sight you’d definitely want to share with your adrenaline junky buddies at home.
Why not let them in on the action? Strap a Go-Pro to your temples and let “land lovers” live vicariously through your adventures.
4. Hatching a capture
Of the seven sea turtle species, five occur in South African waters. The nesting area completely falls within the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
iSimangaliso Wetland Park was listed as South Africa’s first World Heritage Site in December 1999 in recognition of its superlative natural beauty and unique global values.
Four turtle tours are offered within the park. If puppies rate high on the “like” scale, imagine what a baby turtle would do!
5. Snap and slide
The energetic and hypnotic dance of the Zulu tribe is a sight to behold.
Captured by the luminous glow of a bonfire, men and women of the largest ethnic group in South Africa dance to celebrate a coming of age, the unity between two members, ward off evil or announce war to the tune of a beating drum.
For those embarking on a South African adventure in September, you have the opportunity to witness the famed Reed dance or the Mkhosi woMhlanga – an annual event in which women dress from head to to in colourful and traditional attire and present their king with cut reeds.
The festivities, held at the eNyokeni Palace in Nongoma, last for several days and are also symbolically a coming of age ceremony for Zulu girls.
What better way to announce the beginning or end of your South African adventure than with a series of pictures that capture the rich and wondrous century-old traditions of the mighty Zulu.
Want to WIN a trip to South Africa with Bench International?
South African Tourism is launching a competition whose grand prize is a tour of South Africa – an opportunity to invent more holiday snaps, enjoy a cable ride or pay homage to the beginning of humankind.
All you have to do is submit a photo to their Facebook page that you believe encapsulates the essence of South Africa. We’ve included a few ideas below for some inspiration:
- It could be a spectacular sunset you captured on your way home from work
- A travel adventure – a photo from your latest water rafting trip
- Family pet prowling your urban jungle
- Your family enjoying a South African BBQ (Braii)
Then explain in 25 words or less how your photo relates to some aspect of South Africa.
This article was brought to you by South Africa Tourism and Bench International – The Africa Experts
