LANDSCAPE
If we were to give one reason for going to South Africa it would definitely be for the diversity of the landscapes.
CAPE TOWN
The Cape of Good Hope remains magical and unavoidable, the confluence of two oceans. A neighbouring beach allows for penguin watching.
VINES ROAD
The Cape is the takeoff point for the wine route. Plan a day with a few stops for tastings. You will cross the city of Stellenbosch with its houses of Dutch architecture and its pretty oak tree lined streets, and then you’ll arrive in Franschhoek, a small town with the charms of a village in the French Provence (lavender fields, fine restaurants, elegant shops...) at the foot of the mountains.
DURBAN
Our favorite place in Durban: the hotel where we stayed: "The Oysters Box Hotel". Built by sailors in the 19th century (the lighthouse is still present), it was transformed into a hotel in the 30’. Colonial charm, exotic and lush gardens, breathtaking views of the ocean (the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal). Durban, a port city, is not particularly interesting and remains unsafe (sightseeing accompanied by a local guide is highly recommended)
JOHANNESBURG
The largest city in the country and known worldwide for its suburb "Soweto" (South Western Township). To refresh your memory: 3 million inhabitants living in a shantytown stretching as far as the eye can see, a key place for the anti-apartheid movement and home of two Nobel Peace Prize prize winners: Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. The historic city center was deserted in favor of a new center a few kilometers away (due to the riots). We recommend a visit to the Apartheid Museum (impressive) and the Satyagraha House where Gandhi used to live (restored and transformed into a boutique hotel and museum).
PRETORIA
The administrative capital, city of Paul Kruger (do not hesitate to visit his house). The architecture ranges from 19th century - with strong colonial influences - to 20th century modern. Do pay a visit to the Voortrekker Monument, visible from several kilometers away, prominently located on a hill, it pays homage to the Boer pioneers