South Africa’s climate and landscape have conspired to create temperate regions between the margins of the shore and the hills, mountains and savanna that lie inland of the coastal plains. On the Atlantic southwest, the Winelands grow some of the finest grapes, while on the opposite coast, the Indian Ocean’s influence has helped propagate the verdant Garden Route.
The names of the regions you’ll discover on a South Africa cruise may lead one to suspect that the lands have been tamed, but inland and north, the country broadens into the African bush where the wildlife abounds. The vastly expansive national parks provide the opportunity to see the Big Five up close, not confined singly or in pairs, but roaming freely in all their untamed glory. The meeting of the cool and warmer ocean waters means that the seas are also hot to abundant sea life and South Africa cruises offer an opportunity for whale watching while, perhaps surprisingly, you may find penguins gracing the rocks and beaches.
As Africa’s most popular tourist destination, there’s no shortage of things to see and do on a cruise to Cape Town, perched at the foot of the colossal Table Mountain. Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a floral paradise containing more than 7,000 colourful plant species. It’s incredibly beautiful and rightly named as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You can also take a short boat journey out to Robben Island to see and learn more about Nelson Mandela’s incarceration. Alternatively, simply explore Cape Town’s famous V&A Waterfront before grabbing some downtime on one of the city’s beautiful white-sand beaches.
South Africa produces more than 250 million gallons of wine every year, putting it firmly among the world’s top ten producers. The majority is produced in and around Cape Town and many of the vineyards are open for tours and tasting sessions. As for what to sip with your evening meal, the reds of Stellenbosch and the full, fruity whites of Franschhoek Valley are highly recommended.
Today, the inland remains sparsely populated, but the coastal regions you’ll dock at more so, with the cities offering exciting contrasts; their differing colonial histories giving each an entirely unique identity, suffusing the influences of those of African ancestry with the customs and culture of the settlers from Europe, India, China and beyond who people this exhilarating country.
The Rainbow Nation is a fitting description for the Republic of South Africa but perhaps sells this bold country short as there are so many more colours on its palette. Not just colours, but South Africa’s entire make-up which will evoke and enliven all the senses. Lekka!
Which cruise lines sail to South Africa?
