OVERVIEW
South Africa is an incredible honeymoon destination, due to its cultural diversity, its wildlife and its staggeringly beautiful landscapes. Whether you are keen to experience the wild majesty of the bush and try to spot the Big 5, want to try out adventurous activities such as hiking, sailing and horse riding, or would just like to soak up the culture and history of the country at its museums and heritage sites, there is so much to see and do in this fascinating African nation.
If you want to enjoy an unforgettable safari honeymoon there are a number of wildlife parks for you to visit, foremost among them being Kruger National Park. With its riverine woodland, dramatic kopjes and the majestic Lebombo Mountains all to be found within its boundaries, the park’s landscape is sure to wow, but it’s the diversity of wild animals which makes the experience truly extraordinary. During your stay at Kruger you should look out for leopard, rhino, cheetah, elephant, zebra and hippo, not to mention various colourful bird species.
Alternatively you may want to book accommodation at iSimangaliso Wetland Park, with its 5 ecosystems, stunning vistas and many species of wildlife, both on land and in the lakes and the ocean, or you can experience the uplifting beauty of Golden Gate Highlands National Park, guaranteed to take your breath away.
For something rather different, and to experience a slice of South African history, pay a visit to Robben Island – this World Heritage Site is famous for being the prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years. You may also want to include the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg in your itinerary – but to experience a taste of South Africa’s ancient past, delve into the Sterkfontein Caves near Maropeng, one of the most significant archaeological sites in the world.
During your visit to South Africa it is also well worth your while to explore the country’s fertile Winelands, particularly around Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Head to the Boschendal estate and take a cellar tour as well as a self-guided tour of the house, before enjoying a delicious lunch in the estate’s restaurant or café. There is also a picnic hamper option on the lawn from September through to May.
What is the currency in South Africa?
The official currency of South Africa is the South African rand.
How long does it take to fly to South Africa?
A non-stop British Airways flight from London to Johannesburg lasts 10 h 55 m.
What is the time difference in South Africa?
Johannesburg is 1 hour ahead of London.
When is the best time to visit South Africa?
The best time to visit South Africa depends on where you are going in the country. If you’re planning to spend your honeymoon at the coast, you may want to go during the hot summer months of February and March, or the slightly cooler month of April, when temperatures are pleasantly balmy. Inland, the ideal time to visit is between May and August, particularly if you are spending your honeymoon at Kruger National Park; during this period the game lodges offer lower rates, there is a lower risk of malaria and there will be less foliage so game-spotting is made easier.
What language is spoken in South Africa?
There are 11 official languages: Afrikaans, English, Sotho, Northern Sotho, Ndebele, Tsonga, Swazi, Tswana, Venda, Zulu and Xhosa.
