South Africa
9-day trip to South Africa
Welcome back to my blog! This time, my travel adventures took me to the beautiful country of South Africa, with a lovely little stopover in Mauritius. South Africa, especially the vibrant city of Cape Town, has always been high on my bucket list, and this trip was truly a dream come true. So, without further ado, let's dive right into the details of this incredible journey.
It is worth nothing that the Republic of South Africa holds the distinction of being the southernmost nation on the African continent. And as the headline suggests, I truly believe it's nature's best-kept secret. What's fascinating is that South Africa boasts not one, but three capital cities: Pretoria, Bloemfontein, and the stunning Cape Town. The history here is rich and profound. In fact, the fossils discovered in this region suggest that humanity itself originated here, with early humans migrating outwards across the globe. This essentially makes South Africa the ancestral homeland of all people on Earth – quite a thought, isn't it?
Days
Day 1: Johannesburg to Sun City
Arrival in South Africa and check in at Sun City
Three long flights later, we touched down in Johannesburg. The immigration process was swift, and soon after, we enjoyed a welcome lunch near the airport. Our onward journey was a 2.5-hour drive to the renowned Sun City. This luxurious entertainment hub in the North West Province, bordering Pilanesberg National Park, boasts everything from glamorous casinos and the exhilarating Valley of Waves to top-tier golf courses and a vibrant nightlife scene. Its proximity to wildlife encounters adds another layer of appeal. Once we arrived at Sun City, we checked into our hotel, eager to unwind for the remainder of the day before dinner.
Visit
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O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)
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Sun City
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Eat
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Taste of Mumbai
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The Raj Indian Restaurant - Sun City
Stay
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Cabanas
Photos
Day 2: Pilanesberg National Park and Sun City
Game Drive at Pilanesberg National Park and Valley of waves
This was a day we'd eagerly awaited: our game drive through Pilanesberg National Park, a captivating savannah within a volcanic crater. Located a comfortable 2-3 hour drive from Johannesburg in the North West Province, Pilanesberg's unique geological setting creates a dramatic landscape teeming with wildlife. It's home to the Big Five and numerous other fascinating creatures. Conveniently situated next to Sun City, the park was easily accessible. Despite an early morning rain, which can sometimes deter animal sightings, we set off hopefully. Fortunately, the rain soon stopped, and we were thrilled to spot a variety of animals, including kudu, impala, zebra, giraffe, elephants, and hippos, as we drove through the vibrant green savannah. Our exhilarating three-hour game drive concluded back at Sun City for breakfast. The morning was followed by a relaxing period exploring the resort until lunchtime, a short walk from our hotel. The afternoon was dedicated to the exhilarating Valley of Waves, where we enjoyed the massive wave pool, slides, and lazy river. Though Sun City also offers a maze, we opted out. After a satisfyingly tiring time at the pool, we changed and had an early dinner, ending a fantastic day with anticipation for what lay ahead.
Visit
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Pilanesberg National Park
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Valley of Waves
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Palace
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Eat
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Cabanas
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The Raj Indian Restaurant - Sun City
Stay
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Cabanas
Photos
Day 3: Johannesburg
Johannesburg city
After a final breakfast in Sun City, we began the 2.5-hour journey back to Johannesburg. Our plans for the day were fairly laid-back – a few sights, some shopping, and settling into our hotel. Little did we know, a fantastic surprise awaited us in Jo'burg. Our first stop in the city was Cambanos Curio Center, a treasure trove of jewelry, souvenirs, and handicrafts, complete with a charming coffee shop. From there, we proceeded to lunch near Nelson Mandela Square, a significant landmark honoring South Africa's first post-apartheid president with an impressive statue. An orientation tour of the city by bus followed, but it was our first stop that truly thrilled me: the Wanderers cricket stadium. While typical tours only drive past due to bus parking issues, our smaller group allowed us a photo opportunity that incredibly evolved into gaining entry! For a lifelong fan who has witnessed iconic games here – the legendary 434 chase and AB de Villiers' breathtaking 149 (remarkably, I visited on the 19th anniversary of the former!) – this was a dream come true. Being in the VVIP section and seeing the honors board displaying the names of my cricketing heroes like Tendulkar, Kohli, Dravid, Bumrah, and Shami scoring centuries and taking five-wicket hauls was an absolute high. Eventually, we left the hallowed grounds of the Wanderers and continued our exploration of Jo'burg, including Mandela's final home and Gandhi Square, where a statue of a young Mahatma Gandhi stands. After dinner, we checked into our hotel, my heart still buzzing from the unexpected stadium visit, ready for a good night's sleep.
Visit
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Nelson Mandela Square
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Gandhi Square Precinct
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DP World Wanderers Stadium
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Eat
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The Raj on the Square
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Cabanas
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Taste of Mumbai
Stay
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Peermont Metcourt Hotel
Photos
Day 4: Tsitsikamma National Park, Bloukrans Bridge and Knysna
Tsitsikamma National Park, Bloukrans bridge, Knysna
The most action-packed day of our trip unfolded today. Our early start involved a flight to Port Elizabeth, where a pre-arranged van picked us up. Our adventure then took us along the iconic Garden Route towards Tsitsikamma. This 300-kilometer coastal drive, stretching from Witstand to Mossel Bay, is a tapestry of verdant forests where countless rivers flow into the vast Indian Ocean. Our drive towards Tsitsikamma was unfortunately accompanied by heavy rain, making us wonder if our planned stops would be possible. However, post-lunch, we arrived at the remarkable Bloukrans Bridge. This towering arch bridge in the Western Cape, soaring 216 meters above the Bloukrans River, is a mecca for bungy jumpers. The misty conditions offered a dramatic, albeit distant, view. Our journey then led us to Tsitsikamma National Park, a name meaning 'abundance of pure water' in the local Khoekhoe language. Here, the powerful Storms River merges with the Indian Ocean, creating a breathtaking scene dominated by three suspension bridges. A refreshing 1.5-kilometer hike, despite the persistent rain, brought us to these vantage points, rewarding us with exhilarating views, particularly of the stunning gorge carved by the Storms River. Still invigorated from our rainy trek, we moved on to the Knysna Waterfront. This picturesque harbor, filled with boats, offered a small selection of shops and cozy coffee shops, perfect for a brief interlude. Our final leg for the day took us to George, where our hotel awaited. A satisfying dinner was followed by a much-needed check-in, ready for a deep sleep after an unforgettable day.
Visit
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O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB)
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Port Elizabeth International Airport (PLZ)
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Tsitsikamma National Park
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Bloukrans Bridge
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Garden Route National Park
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Knysna Waterfront
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Eat
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Tsitsikamma Village Inn
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Mumbai Cafe
Stay
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Protea Hotel George King George
Photos
Day 5: Cango Caves, Ostrich Safari, Wildlife Ranch in Oudtshoorn
Outing in Oudtshoorn
A bright and sunny morning in George followed a refreshing breakfast, setting the perfect tone for our 60-kilometer drive to Oudtshoorn. The journey itself was a treat, winding through the picturesque Outeniqua Mountains and its numerous scenic passes. Our first stop was the fascinating Cango Caves, where limestone has sculpted impressive formations within the Swartberg range. These caves, a major tourist draw with a rich history dating back to prehistoric times (as evidenced by cave paintings and artifacts), were rediscovered in the late 18th century. Our engaging hour-long guided tour illuminated the caves' past uses and the ongoing conservation initiatives. Leaving the subterranean wonders, we arrived at the Safari Ostrich Farm, a place dedicated to the breeding and preservation of these unique birds. After a satisfying lunch, we embarked on a short "ostrich safari," gaining insights into their lives and conservation, and even had the chance to feed them. Our next adventure took us to the Cango Wildlife Ranch, a different kind of zoo focused on conservation and offering incredibly close encounters with its animals. The cheetah interaction was a memorable experience, and seeing the animals thriving was a delight. As the day drew to a close, we made our way towards Mossel Bay, our home for the next couple of nights, once again traversing the beautiful passes of the Outeniqua Mountains. The sound of the ocean welcomed us to our beachfront hotel, where we checked in after dinner, ready for a relaxing night's sleep.
Visit
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Oudtshoorn
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Cango Caves
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Safari Ostrich Farm
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Cango Wildlife Ranch
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Eat
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Safari Ostrich Farm Cafe
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Jewel of India
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Protea Hotel George King George
Stay
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Diaz Strand
Photos
Day 6: Mossel bay
Mossel Bay
A day of gentle exploration awaited us, with a relaxed pace and a few key sights. Our first destination was the venerable Old Post Office Tree, a living testament to maritime history and believed to be the world's oldest postal service point. Imagine 14th-century Portuguese sailors entrusting their messages to this very tree, tucking them into bags or shoes for fellow voyagers to find – a truly remarkable 500-year-old landmark. True to its name, Mossel Bay's identity is intertwined with mussels and seashells. We immersed ourselves in the Mussel Museum, marveling at the array of shapes and colors found along this coastline. A neighboring museum then unfolded the fascinating story of the Portuguese explorers' journey to India, highlighting their connection to South Africa and this specific bay. Following an enriching museum visit and a swift lunch, we made our way to the lighthouse. A brief ten-minute walk led us to its vantage point, where the breathtaking panorama of the Indian Ocean unfolded in shades of deep blue. The rugged, naturally sculpted rocks lining the shore enhanced the scene's inherent beauty. Mossel Bay beckons with opportunities for adventure and relaxation alike – from the thrill of zip-lining and surfing to the simple pleasure of swimming or strolling along the wave-kissed shores. We were also treated to the majestic sight of distant whales playfully breaching the surface. The numerous summer campers hinted at the area's undeniable charm. Our tranquil day culminated in a delightful dinner, and we drifted off to sleep, thoroughly rested and with lasting memories of Mossel Bay's unique character.
Visit
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Post Office Tree
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Lighthouse Resort CC
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Klipheuwel Farmstall
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Eat
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Jewel of India
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The Point Hotel & SPA
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Cafe Gannet Restaurant
Stay
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Diaz Strand
Photos
Day 7: Stellenbosch and Cape Town
Drive to Cape Town
Today was dedicated to a significant journey, as Cape Town lies approximately 400 kilometers from Mossel Bay. We punctuated the drive with a few interesting stops. Our first was at an Aloe vera emporium, home to what is claimed to be the oldest Aloe vera statue. Later, we paused for lunch in the charming town of Stellenbosch. We enjoyed a pizza lunch there and also had the opportunity to visit a local vineyard. As evening approached, we finally arrived in Cape Town and made our way to the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. An evening sunset cruise was on our agenda, and it proved to be truly spectacular. As our vessel glided across the Atlantic Ocean towards the setting sun, the atmosphere was filled with music and celebration of a wonderful day. The hour-long cruise was captivating, offering breathtaking views of the ocean, the fiery sunset, and the majestic Table Mountain providing a stunning backdrop. Shortly after our cruise, we had dinner and then checked into our hotel, ready for a well-deserved rest.
Visit
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STELLENBOSCH WINE ROUTES
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V&A Waterfront
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Tigresse Sailing Catamaran
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Eat
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Jewel of India
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Col'Cacchio Stellenbosch
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Vintage India
Stay
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Cresta Grande Cape Town
Photos
Day 8: Table Mountain
Table Mountain and Helicopter ride
Today's excitement centered around a much-anticipated helicopter flight – my first time ever! We'd wished for perfect weather, and our wish was granted. The sun shone brightly for our aerial adventure. At the V&A Waterfront helipad, we received a briefing before boarding the 7-seater helicopter. The next twelve minutes were simply breathtaking. From above, we witnessed stunning views of Robben Island, the iconic Table Mountain, DLF stadium, and the bustling Cape Town harbor. Back on solid ground, we captured some memories before heading to our next destination: Table Mountain. The Table Mountain is a prominent flat-topped mountain overlooking the city of Cape Town, South Africa, and Table Bay. It's a major landmark and tourist attraction, easily recognizable by its level plateau, which is approximately 3 kilometers (2 miles) from side to side. Its distinctive flat top, resembling a table, gives it its name and makes it instantly recognizable. The summit offers breathtaking panoramic views of Cape Town, the Atlantic Ocean, the Cape Flats, and surrounding mountain ranges like the Twelve Apostles and Lion's Head. Visitors can reach the top via the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway or by hiking one of the many trails that crisscross the mountain slopes. Activities include hiking, abseiling, and exploring the plateau. Table Mountain was declared one of the New7Wonders of Nature in 2011, further solidifying its global significance. able Mountain is more than just a scenic backdrop; it's a natural wonder with unique geology, rich biodiversity, fascinating history, and stunning views, making it a must-see destination in Cape Town. Aboard the cable car, we ascended to the summit of Table Mountain, where we were met with incredible views. The "tablecloth" effect was particularly mesmerizing, as clouds seemed to spill over the edge of the mountain. Following our time at the summit, we descended and returned to the V&A Waterfront for lunch and some shopping. A stop at Bo-Kaap, with its vibrant and colorful houses, provided a fantastic photo opportunity. The day ended with a relaxing evening at our hotel. It was a day that not only met but surpassed my expectations, easily becoming the highlight of the trip.
Visit
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Cape Town Helicopters
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Table Mountain Aerial Cableway
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Bo-Kaap
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Eat
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Cresta Grande Cape Town
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The Raj
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JEWEL OF INDIA - EXQUISITE INDIAN RESTAURANT
Stay
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Cresta Grande Cape Town
Photos
Day 9: Hout Bay, Seal Island, Boulders beach, Cape point, Cape of Good Hope
Around Cape Town
Though we anticipated this to be our final full day exploring South Africa, the landscape held one last, grand adventure for us, stretching before us like the open road itself. Leaving our comfortable hotel behind, our first destination was the bustling harbor of Hout Bay. The air here was thick with the salty tang of the sea and the cries of gulls, the very air hinting at the marine spectacle that awaited us at Seal Island. A small ferry sliced through the turquoise waters, carrying us on a half-hour journey towards the rocky outcrop. As we approached Seal Island, the air vibrated with the cacophony of thousands of Cape fur seals. The island itself was a dark, rugged silhouette against the shimmering ocean, completely claimed by these sleek, dark creatures and a variety of seabirds wheeling overhead. We spent a captivating hour observing their lives: some basking languidly on the sun-drenched rocks, their bodies a mosaic of wet fur, while others dove and frolicked in the churning waves, their movements fluid and graceful. The sheer density of life on this small island was truly remarkable. Back on the mainland, the charming coastal town of Fish Hoek beckoned with the promise of a delicious lunch. The air here was softer, carrying the gentle rhythm of waves breaking on the sandy shore, a stark contrast to the wild energy of Seal Island. After a satisfying meal, our journey continued towards the unique Boulders Beach. The approach revealed the reason for its name: colossal granite boulders, smoothed by eons of wind and wave, scattered the coastline like giant pebbles. But the true magic of this place lay in its resident colony of African Penguins. These delightful, tuxedoed birds, smaller and arguably even more endearing than their Antarctic relatives, waddled with comical seriousness across the sand and amongst the rocks. This protected area felt like stepping into their living room, as they preened their feathers, socialized in small groups, and tended to their nests nestled amongst the massive stones. Their curious gazes and charming antics were utterly captivating. From the playful penguins, we journeyed further along the Cape Peninsula to the dramatic grandeur of Cape Point. The landscape here shifted dramatically, with towering cliffs plunging hundreds of meters into the churning Atlantic, the air alive with the powerful roar of the ocean. We ascended via the quaint Flying Dutchman funicular, the little car climbing steadily to offer ever-expanding vistas of the rugged coastline and the vast expanse of the sea. From the viewing point near the old lighthouse, the panorama was breathtaking – a seemingly endless canvas of blue meeting the jagged edges of the land. After soaking in the awe-inspiring views and capturing them with our cameras, we embarked on a short hike, the wind whipping around us, towards the legendary Cape of Good Hope. The walk to the Cape of Good Hope felt significant, a journey to the southwesternmost tip of an entire continent. The iconic signpost stood proudly against the dramatic backdrop of crashing waves and windswept fynbos. Here, one could almost feel the weight of history, imagining Bartolomeu Dias's first sighting of this turbulent cape centuries ago. The raw, untamed beauty of this place, with its powerful energy and sense of isolation, was a fitting culmination to our South African exploration. With a final, lingering look at the dramatic coastline, we began our return journey towards Cape Town, the setting sun painting the sky in hues of orange and purple. An early dinner awaited us before our flight, the memories of the seals, penguins, and the majestic Cape etched firmly in our minds, a vibrant tapestry of our final, unforgettable day.
Visit
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Hout Bay
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Seal Island
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Chapman's Peak
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Fish Hoek Beach
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Boulders Beach
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Cape Point
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Cape of Good Hope
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Cape Town International Airport (CPT)
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Eat
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Cresta Grande Cape Town
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The Galley Fish Hoek
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Vintage India
Photos
Day 10: Arrival in Mauritius
Stopover at Mauritius
Our South African chapter closed as we touched down in Mauritius, our layover thankfully extending overnight. This provided an unexpected opportunity for a Mauritian encore, though not my first visit (you can find my previous travelogue here: https://turas.app/s/trip-to-mauritius/IkTj8Ygo). It was a pleasant return, a contrast to South Africa's cool air as we were met with Mauritius's signature humid embrace and a gentle rain. After the familiar immigration process and a quick breakfast, our sightseeing began with Ganga Talao, the revered Lord Shiva temple often considered the 13th Jyotirling (as detailed in my earlier blog). The darshan was as serene as I remembered. Next, we ascended to the Citadel in Port Louis, a historic fort with French and British legacies, offering panoramic views of the city's skyline. Lunch at the charming Le Caudan Waterfront mall was a delightful interlude. With the afternoon unfolding, we checked into our beautiful resort overlooking the beach, the promise of leisure and rest a welcome reward after our travels.
Visit
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Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport
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Ganga Talao
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Citadelle (Fort Adelaide)
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Caudan Waterfront
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Eat
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Namaste Restaurant
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Ocean's Creek Beach Hotel
Stay
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Ocean's Creek Beach Hotel
Photos
Day 11: Departure from Mauritius
Departure
We departed Mauritius in the afternoon and finally arrived back in India, marking the end of our truly memorable adventure. This trip to South Africa has undoubtedly earned a spot among my all-time favorites, a testament to the rightness of my initial instinct. South Africa is a truly captivating destination, a rising star in the world of travel that I wholeheartedly recommend adding to your bucket list. It's a country often misunderstood, sometimes even viewed negatively. However, experiencing its vibrant reality firsthand revealed those perceptions to be unfounded. It is indeed the "rainbow nation," a place of incredible diversity and warmth. And so, I bring this travelogue to a close, filled with cherished memories. Until our next journey, farewell.
Visit
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Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport
Eat
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Indian Summer Restaurant
Notes
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Continues from the previous note.
Cape Town and Mossel bay offer other adventurous activities like Skydiving, Paragliding, Shark Cage tour. Please book them in advance.
Best time to visit is September to May. Rains can occur anytime so make sure to carry an umbrella.
Indian restaurants are available at all places.
Shopping is expensive. Be ready to spend more if you are purchasing souvenirs, toys, jewellery.
Diamond and Tanzanite jewellery is famous but again they are expensive.
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A few notes about South Africa.
South Africa is not a visa free country for Indians. Please make sure to apply for a tourist visa beforehand. It may take upto 15 days for the visa to be granted. The cost is around 8000 per person. There is no need to visit any visa center.
Card payments work in most places
The currency is Rand. Please buy Rands beforehand in India. There is a chance that you might get cheated while exchanging currency. Best place for currency exchange is South African airports.
Be careful with your belongings especially in big cities like Johannesburg and Cape Town. There are a lot of thefts and pick pocket incidents here. Never wander alone at night in these places.
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A traveler who loves to experience different countries, cultures and places.
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