Cape Town is arguably the place everyone wants to see. As well as being a vibrant city with great shopping and restaurants, it also makes a good base for exploring the region. Don’t miss the incredibly scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak, climbing Table Mountain and reaching the Cape of Good Hope.

Northeast of Cape Town, against a backdrop of sublime countryside and towering mountains, lie the Winelands, dotted with beautiful towns and villages characterised by their unique Cape Dutch architecture. Enjoy some slow-paced wine tasting and don’t miss the first-class restaurants in Franschhoek.

The Garden Route is one of South Africa’s highlights, a stretch of stunning coastal scenery that sweeps up into the mountains. The activities on offer are plentiful: go horse riding, play golf, taste some delicious wine or test your bravery by diving with great whites in a shark cage. And don’t miss Walker Bay along the Southern Cape, one of the best places in the world to watch whales.

The best-known of South Africa’s national parks is the mighty Kruger – 20,000 sq km of land that is home to 147 species of mammal, 507 species of bird and 336 species of tree across 16 distinct habitats. The Greater Kruger Park comprises a significant swathe of land on the western flanks of the National Park, and it is generally this larger, combined area that people are referring to when they mention the park.

The Rovos Rail is one of the most luxurious rail journeys in the world, offering a unique perspective on the African landscape from the comfort of Edwardian-style carriages (complete with world-class service and gourmet food). The Blue Train, which has been running more than 60 years, is also synonymous with luxury, with service comparable to that of a 5-star hotel (and sumptuous suites to match).