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If you’re keen on a getaway to combat the winter blues, here’s our pick of some of the best local and SADC (South African Development and Economic Community) holiday destinations.
Our top five
According to Sean Kritzinger, executive chairman of Giltedge Group winter is a great time to travel in Africa.
He says: ‘It is a safari season and the best time for game viewing in Southern Africa as the bush is thinner which means clearer visibility! Of course, natural pools have also dried up after the last of the summer rain, so animals move between waterholes to drink – a wonderful sight.’
Here are our top five destinations for such an enjoyable experience:
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Durban
With its subtropical climate Durban is always a good option for some winter sun. The city boasts top attractions like uShaka Marine World, the Moses Mabhida Stadium, Durban Botanical Gardens and of course, pristine beaches. The thriving atmosphere and bustle of the ‘Golden Mile’ is a great start and end point for any visiting tourist.
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West Coast
With its colossal coastlines and picturesque scenery, the West Coast is an idyllic getaway. There is plenty to explore in the West Coast National Park, there are various wineries for wine connoisseurs, and you may even spot a whale or two if you spend a day on the shore.
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Stellenbosch
Surrounded by vineyards, mountainous and nature reserves, Stellenbosch is the perfect destination for those who enjoy great wine and food. Stellenbosch is ideal for both solo travellers and couples alike and if you’re looking for a cosy venue, there’s plenty of places with Instagram worthy fireplaces in Stellenbosch.
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Drakensberg
The Drakensberg is a great option for thrill-seeking holidaymakers. Sports enthusiasts can hike, fly fish and nearby Tiffendale offers snow skiing during the winter months.
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Kruger National Park
As one of Africa’s largest reserves, the Kruger National Park is a top highlight. You can also include a day trip to nearby coasts and Johannesburg. The park boasts the “Big Five” – lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos and is an ideal family destination during the holidays.
Delightful deals
Flight Centre and Big Ambitions have collated some of their best specials for a winter break in and around South Africa:
Durban: BON Hotels are offering a midweek stay at the Royal Palm Hotel and Apartments starts from R773 per person, whereas a weekend stay starts from just R864. Both include breakfast for two and treat the guests to an Executive Room in the KwaZulu-Natal province.
BON Hotels are also offering a ‘Pay 2, Stay 3’ deal, saving you 30% if you choose to stay in Shishangeni for three nights. This includes parking, uncapped Wi-Fi and breakfast, with children under 18 staying and eating for free. The deal is only available until 30 June.
Winter in the winelands
Nicorine Bekker, executive head of business optimisation at South Africa’s Erinvale Estate Hotel and Spa says that “winter in the Winelands is one of the Cape’s best-kept secrets” and offers many ‘low season’ specials.
These include the ‘Taste and Discover’ special, which includes breakfast, cocktails at Magnolia, a seven-course fine dining dinner at Stefan’s, and three “Heart of the Helderberg Tasting Experiences”.
Alternatively, there’s a ‘Play and Relax’ option, including breakfast, two rounds of golf per person, a seven-course fine dining dinner at Stefan’s, a 60-minute AromaVine massage at Lurra Spa, and free access to several spa facilities during your stay.
Lynne Gillespie, executive head of communications and PR at Index Hotels, suggests Erinvale Estate Hotel & Spa for its dining options, golf course and spa options. Nearby wine estates offer award-winning wines, and taste experiences.
Explore Southern Africa
Stanley and Livingstone Boutique Hotel in Zimbabwe offers a family package at R9,950 per person. The deal includes flights, accommodation, return transfers, daily breakfast, and one game drive and is available until 30 June.
Kate Powell, general manager of marketing, sales, and reservations at the Zambezi Queen Collection recommends the Chobe River region for a winter holiday destination: ‘Although it’s a year-round destination, this is an absolute paradise for wildlife enthusiasts, boasting one of the largest elephant populations on the continent.
‘For SADC passport holders only, we’re offering a saving of 45% on our all-inclusive packages on our houseboats or at the lodge. Accommodation, transfers, meals, drinks, expert guides, and safari activities are all included. Valid for travel up until 30 June for the houseboats and up until 31 December for the lodge.’
Book, breathe and go
South African winter holidays have something for everyone. Whether travelling alone or with family and friends, you can certainly make the most of your winter holiday and perhaps even try something new.
