South Africa: an extraordinarily diverse country
South Africa is a country of extraordinarily diversity – rugged coastlines, soaring mountains and rolling desert dunes make up just a fraction of its land. It's perhaps best known for safaris and driving out in 4x4s in search of the Big Five is a once-in-a-lifetime experience. However, there's much more beyond wildlife spotting when you stay in a South Africa vacation rental, like rambling along the hiking trails, getting your thrill-seeking kicks by bungee jumping, or learning about South Africa's turbulent past and vision for a better future. This will be like no vacation you've ever had.
Over 300 museums to explore in South Africa
South Africa's history dates back to the some of the world's earliest settlements and there are over 300 museums across the country which reflect its past and culture. Poignant apartheid-era museums commemorate those lost in the battle for equality and democracy, while others showcase South Africa's thriving contemporary art scene. If you've got a car, a drive along the extraordinarily beautiful Garden Route offers close encounters with the country's natural wonders and the fine winemakers in the Cape Winelands open their doors to passersby looking to discover South Africa's delicious reds and whites.
Adventure seekers love South Africa
South Africa might be known for its enviable safaris, but there's a whole host of action-packed activities to be had beyond the parks and reserves. Ramblers can walk along the diverse range of footpaths that snake around the coast, in the semi-desert interior or up the Drakensberg peaks. Rock climbers can scale the mighty Cederberg, while surfers can catch the rolling waves along the Eastern Cape. Adrenaline nuts can throw themselves off Bloukrans Bridge attached to bungees, soar over everything on hang gliders, or lower themselves into cages to get face-to-face with great white sharks.
South Africa's enviable climate
The best time to stay in a South Africa vacation rental very much depends on what part of the country you visit. The most popular time along the coast, particularly in Cape Town, is the summer months, which fall between December and February, while the low season is between June and August, when the nights can be a little chilly. In the most part, your best bet is booking a rental in one of the shoulder seasons, when the weather can still be delightfully warm, the crowds have thinned out and the prices have taken a nosedive.
Spot the Big Five in South Africa
The wildlife of South Africa needs little introduction and is one of the biggest draws for vacationers. This is safari country where spotting the Big Five – rhinos, elephants, lions, leopards and buffalo – in the Kruger or Kgalagadi sits towards the top of most travel bucket lists. It's not all about these magnificent creatures, though. Watching packs of wild dogs, baboons and warthogs can be just as interesting, while birdwatchers catch sightings of African fish eagles and cape starlings. This is one of the greatest wildlife spots on Earth and its all within easy reach of your South Africa vacation rental.