Destinations / Western Cape >>

The Western Cape needs little introduction - it is the most popular destination for tourists to South Africa and there are very good reasons for that.

Cape Town's natural setting is probably unmatched for any city in the world: Table Mountain provides a stunning backdrop from whereever you are in the city; a number of excellent white sand beaches, a natural working harbour as well as the excellent summer climate make this a tourist destination par excellence. Combine that with fine dining, a relaxed cosmopolitan atmosphere and any number of activities to keep you occupied and you really can't experience South Africa without visiting the 'Mother City'.

The winelands are just a short drive from Cape Town itself and present visitors with picture-postcard views of dramatic mountains, historic Cape Dutch vineyards, the best restaurants in SA and, don't forget, some excellent (and not-so-excellent) wines to explore.

Most travellers make their way along the Garden Route through towns such as Hermanus, Arniston, George, Knsyna. Along the way they find some good beaches (especially at Hermanus, Wilderness and Brenton-on-Sea) with opportunities to indulge in whale-watching, but we believe some of these towns are over-developed and disappointing as tourist destinations.

The Karoo and Route 62 is the less-travelled route, but we think the better one. This is the longest wine route in the world with towering mountain ranges, big skies, pristine farming country, back-water towns where generous hospitality comes as standard. And when you want your beach fix, you're always just a mountain pass away from the Garden Route anyway.

The West Coast is even more off-the-beaten-track than the Little Karoo. Quaint traditional fishing villages such as Paternoster are in stark contrast with the developed Garden Route. Superb fresh fish, great value for money along with some excellent attractions (such as the West Coast Fossil Park and The Cedarberg Wilderness) make this an really attractive option, especially if you visit in springtime to see the world-famous wildflower display.