Amanda recently returned from an incredible hosted trip to South Africa, and she was eager to share her feedback on the experiences, accommodations, and highlights of her journey. From the vibrant culture of Cape Town to the stunning safari adventures, here’s Amanda’s take on her South African adventure:
South Africa is a destination like no other—offering a stunning blend of vibrant cities, luxurious accommodations, thrilling wildlife experiences, and breathtaking landscapes. My recent journey through this incredible country was filled with unforgettable moments, and I’m excited to share the highlights, hotels, and must-do experiences from my adventure. Whether you’re considering a getaway or planning your own African safari, here’s a peek at what made my trip so special.
Airline Experience: SAA – Economy Class
My journey began with SAA in Economy Class. While some might assume that older aircraft designs might come with a trade-off in comfort, I was pleasantly surprised by the spacious legroom. The service was excellent—efficient and quick, with meals and drinks served without delay. However, the seatback entertainment left a lot to be desired, with a limited selection of movies and somewhat grainy screen resolution. A minor detail, but worth noting if you enjoy in-flight entertainment.
A Journey with Above and Beyond
One of the highlights of my trip was the exceptional service provided by Above and Beyond, led by Lindsey, who took care of every detail from start to finish. The entire experience was incredibly well-organized, allowing us to relax and enjoy each destination without worry. We did face a small hiccup due to weather, but Lindsey handled it with such grace that it didn’t dampen our spirits. I was fortunate to travel with an amazing group, and I truly miss the connections made during this unforgettable experience.
Where I Stayed: Luxurious Lodges and Unique Accommodations
South Africa is home to some truly remarkable accommodations, and each place I stayed had its own unique charm. Here are the standout spots:
Hazendal Wine Estate – Cape Winelands
Nestled in the stunning Cape Winelands, Hazendal Wine Estate is the perfect mix of luxury and nature. This resort offers a variety of amenities that cater to both families and couples, including a golf course, a gym, a spa, and, of course, a winery. The highlight of our stay was a wine tasting followed by a rejuvenating massage and a delicious dinner. If you’re looking for a peaceful and scenic retreat, this is the place.
Grand Daddy Hotel & Airstream Penthouse Park – Cape Town
If you’re looking for something more quirky, Grand Daddy Hotel offers an unconventional experience with its Airstream penthouses. While the backpacker-style atmosphere didn’t quite suit my usual preferences, the hotel’s location near some of Cape Town’s key attractions and the helpful staff made up for it. After an issue with our original room, we were upgraded to the spacious Grand Daddy Suite, which was a huge improvement.
Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank – Johannesburg
In Johannesburg, I stayed at the Hyde Johannesburg Rosebank, a stylish hotel in a safe and convenient location. The rooms featured industrial-chic design and were incredibly comfortable, with cloud-like beds and great soundproofing. I loved the nearby shopping mall and was also lucky enough to dine at Proud Mary’s, one of Johannesburg’s top spots for food.
Jaci’s Tree Lodge – Madikwe Game Reserve
Hands down, Jaci’s Tree Lodge in Madikwe Game Reserve was the highlight of my stay. This luxurious lodge blends rustic charm with five-star comfort. Located deep in the reserve, surrounded by the sounds of wildlife, I experienced some of the best dining and safari adventures here. Our guide, Peter, was a wealth of knowledge and made every game drive educational and thrilling. While the lack of privacy in the room’s toilet area was a minor downside, it didn’t detract from the overall experience.
Ilanga Lodge Welgevonden – North West Province
Unfortunately, we couldn’t stay at our originally planned lodge in Welgevonden due to flooding, but the change of pace at iBhubesi Private Game Lodge and Thabe Metsi proved to be a unique experience. Both lodges offered cozy stays and excellent service, and while we missed out on the game drives, it was an unforgettable experience to spend time with our group in such a tranquil setting.
The Palace of the Lost City – Sun City
For a vibrant, family-friendly experience, The Palace of the Lost City is a top pick. Located in Sun City, this sprawling hotel is a great choice for group travel, conferences, or anyone who loves golf. With its vibrant atmosphere, spacious rooms, and amenities like a wave pool and water slides, it’s perfect for families and those looking for a bit of excitement. Don’t miss the impressive breakfast buffet!
Must-Do Experiences in South Africa
No trip to South Africa would be complete without exploring the incredible sights and experiences the country has to offer. Here are some of my top recommendations:
Table Mountain – Cape Town
A visit to Table Mountain is a must! Take the iconic cable car up to the summit for sweeping views of Cape Town, the beaches, and the surrounding landscape. It’s one of the best ways to get an aerial perspective of this beautiful city.
Bo-Kaap – Cape Town
For a colorful and culturally rich experience, head to Bo-Kaap, a vibrant neighborhood known for its brightly colored houses and fascinating history. It’s a great place to immerse yourself in the culture of Cape Town.
Cape of Good Hope & Boulders Beach Penguin Colony
A trip to the Cape of Good Hope offers stunning ocean views and a chance to visit the iconic lighthouse at Cape Point. Just a short drive away, Boulders Beach is home to a unique colony of African penguins—definitely worth the visit!
Rovos Rail – Luxury Train Journey
For a truly luxurious experience, Rovos Rail offers an unforgettable lunch journey through the South African countryside. The gourmet meal paired with exquisite South African wines, served in elegant vintage carriages, was a highlight of my trip.
Final Thoughts
South Africa truly offers a blend of adventure, luxury, and culture like no other. From its diverse wildlife to its vibrant cities, there’s something for everyone. I hope this blog has inspired you to explore some of these incredible experiences, and I’d love to help you plan your own South African adventure. Whether you’re interested in a safari, luxury stays, or cultural explorations, South Africa is sure to leave you with memories to last a lifetime.