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What's all the fuss about South Africa anyway? HINT: It's not just the animals...

Leave the concrete jungle and hustle and bustle of the city behind and escape to Africa, a vast continent where animals roam free through spectacular landscapes that will have you drooling...

Leave the concrete jungle and hustle and bustle of the city behind and escape to Africa, a vast continent where animals roam free through spectacular landscapes that will have you drooling…

But Ssshhhhh… WAIT!

There’s so much more to see than just the spectacular animals.

And you don’t even need binoculars.

For sure you can explore Africa’s wild savannahs with total convenience, thanks to world-class infrastructure and excellently managed sustainable environmental tourism. Immersing yourself in the jewels of Africa and seeing its mighty wildlife these days is as simple as booking a flight with South African Airways.

But there’s a lot more than just the ‘BIG 5’ (Buffalo, Elephant, Leopard, Lion, and Rhino) to experience and immerse yourself in during your trip.

Here’s 6 of our favourite ‘other’ things to do when you step off that plane…

 

6. Wine, wine and yes, more wine

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Locals have been cultivating wine in South Africa since the 17th century, and their drops are now some of the best wine varieties in the world.

Most vineyards in South Africa enjoy a Mediterranean climate, and some of the best wine-growing regions in the country are the Constantia Valley, just south of Cape Town, and the Stellenbosch district, to Cape Town’s east.

Check out Stellenbosch Vineyards for more information.

 

5. Connect and learn about Zulu culture

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The Zulu nation is as legendary for their courage and discipline in battle as much as their exotic customs and traditions. Singing, dancing, colourful costumes: Zulu culture is South Africa’s heart and soul.

Visit a traditional village for a taste of this thriving culture. To see how Zulu culture has embraced modern city living, take a township tour of Durban, a laid-back, multi-cultural city with a thriving urban Zulu culture.

Check out Tripadvisor Durban for more information.

 

4. Go on a safari – (duh!)

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Okay, so South Africa is way more than just the animals; you’ve read that above and will continue learning that below. But no trip to South Africa is complete without going on a wildlife safari and getting amongst the continent’s wild animals.

For something a bit different, jump in a hot air balloon and go on a safari over the savannahs and national parks teeming with wildlife, such as the Pilanesberg National Park.

Check out Pilanesberg National Park for more information.

 

3. Hike, cruise & fly in Blyde River Canyon

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At around 25km long and 750 metres deep, the Blyde River Canyon is one of the largest canyons on the planet and easily one of the most impressive natural features of South Africa.

Explore this natural habitat on one of the many hiking trails, take a boat cruise along the river, or see it all from the best vantage point ever: on a helicopter flight.

Check out Mpumalanga Helicopter Company for more information.

 

2. Why not go shark cage diving

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Yes, we’ve all seen Jaws. But don’t let that put you off.

Cage diving with great white sharks is worth the trip to South Africa alone. I mean, how many other people can boast about getting as close as safely possible to these majestic apex predators? And they are simply majestic.

A shark cage diving experience will also teach you about these misunderstood creatures of the sea and how we can do better to protect and respect this vital part of the marine eco-system.

Check out Shark Watch for more information.

 

1. Discover vibrant cities and laid back vibes

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Beer House, Long Street

From gastronomy heaven to shopping, galleries, bars and clubs, the South African’s have got it sorted when it comes to living large or laid back.

Capetown’s Long Street is the place to party, while shopaholics should head to 210 on Long Street for some design cool and for those who like some consciousness with their retail habits.

The Chairman, Durban

The Chairman, Durban

Meanwhile, in Durban, there’s hip S43 to discover, which is a microbrewery renowned for its global street food including burgers, pulled-pork tacos and, of course, bunny chow. After hours, head to ‘The Chairman’ Lounge to kick back with a cocktail listening to jazz amongst antiques, game trophies and random paintings adorning the walls.

Check out Time Out South Africa for more information.

 

Getting there

South African Airways flies daily from across Australia to Johannesburg and onto more than 65 destinations in Africa. And with two pieces of luggage on SAA flights from Australia, you’ll have plenty of room to pack all your souvenirs!

Visit www.flysaa.com today to escape the city and discover the appeal of Africa yourself.

READ: 5 must-take snaps in South Africa

READ: 5 unique events in South Africa!

You’ve got a week in South Africa. What does your itinerary look like? Tell us in the comments below…

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