Flights to South Africa
South Africa’s oldest city, Cape Town is a captivating fusion of art, music and spectacular natural beauty.
The iconic ‘Mother City’ stretches out on a peninsula in the shadow of Table Mountain and is adorned by glorious white sand beaches overlooking the turquoise waters of the Atlantic Ocean. Influences from African, European and Asian traditions are widespread in Cape Town, creating an enchanting city brimming with history and culture.
For outdoor enthusiasts, the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve is among the most esteemed locations on the planet. The dramatic headland on the Cape Peninsula is home to over 250 species of birds, including one of only two colonies of African penguins. Inhale the fresh ocean air as you watch the formidable waves of the Atlantic crash into the rocky cliffs more than 200m below.
The strikingly unique Table Mountain, a Wonder of the World, is the defining feature of the Cape Town skyline and affords commanding views of the city, Table Bay and beyond. Table Mountain is also home to an assortment of fascinating animal and plant species. Keep your eyes peeled for the rodent-like rock hyrax – known locally as the dassie. Reach the summit in five minutes on a state-of-the-art cable car and feel the gondola seamlessly shift beneath your feet as it rotates to provide 360-degree views.
Robben Island, which sits in the waters of Table Bay, offers a poignant insight into South Africa’s history. Take a ferry from Cape Town and gain a unique perspective of Nelson Mandela’s story as you tour the prison where he was once held.
Bo-Kaap is another historically significant location back in the city. Head to the former Malay Quarter and lose yourself in a maze of cobbled streets and distinctive multi-coloured buildings. Bo-Kaap is home to a large Muslim community and there are several beautiful mosques in the area. Listen out for the muezzin's calls to prayer echoing through this colourful neighbourhood.
Cape Town offers a raft of world-renowned restaurants serving international cuisines, from fine dining to tapas-style street food. There’s no shortage of flavourful local dishes to try too. Sample the intricate spices of Cape Malay cuisine, an Indian inspired cooking style honed over 300 years, in an authentic Bo-Kaap eatery. Braai, meanwhile, is a staple of South African culture. Feast on a tantalising selection of meats cooked on a wood or coal fire.