South Africa

Visitors looking for hints of old European charm in this corner of the globe will be delighted by Cape Town, South Africa’s sec­ond largest city, after Johannesburg, with 3.74 million inhabitants. Set against the back­drop of mesmerizing Table Mountain and opening up onto the Atlantic Ocean, the city wins big points for visual appeal.  

Take time to explore what remains of Cape Town’s 350-year-old old town, strikingly juxta­posed next to a modern skyline teeming with high rises. Today, Cape Town’s streets are lined with world-class boutiques and shops from famous brands. The city is equally known for its nightlife and laid-back attitude. If the city seems noticeably calm on a sunny day, chanc­es are locals and tourists alike, quite possibly including celebrities, can be found lounging and playing on nearby beaches.

Possibilities abound in South Africa and if an adventure-filled tour rich in natural beauty is what you are after, the Garden Route is a dream come true. Known as South Africa’s Eden, the popular Garden Route primarily runs along the N2 national road, beginning in the inland town of Heidelberg in the Southern Cape and continuing east to Storms River Vil­lage, located along the border of the Eastern Cape. Though no longer a secret, this amaz­ing part of the country comprises ancient woodlands, opulent retirement communities, secluded hideaways in the mountains and breath-taking beaches.

Hire a car or book a tour to witness and ex­plore this outstanding corner of the Earth with your own eyes. And when it’s time for your next dialysis session, you’ll be pleased to learn there’s a NephroCare centre in the town of George, west of the Garden Route and in Jeffreys Bay to the east.

For those who equate South Africa with sa­fari, Kruger National Park should be at the top of your agenda. Situated on an impressive plot of land encompassing nearly two million hectares with 16 different ecosystems, the park offers endless chances to witness a sea of wild animals in their natural habitat. Lions, buffalos, leopards, rhinos and elephants make up the so-called ‘Big Five’ – just a handful of the 147 different mammals who roam the territory. And don’t forget the nu­merous varieties of trees, fish, reptiles, birds and amphibians that also call the park home. A great way to explore the park is by hopping in a 4x4.

After you’ve enjoyed this experience of a life­time, our staff at the Phalaborwa Centre just outside the park will be happy to welcome you.

South Africa’s sun is calling? Then head to the beach in Durban, known locally as 'South Africa's Playground'. It’s the perfect place for a relaxing sun-drenched beach holiday, espe­cially when temperatures in Europe are at their lowest. Here, there’s something for young and old to enjoy, so why not ask the whole family to come along?  

Spend your days beach combing along the Golden Mile (the long stretch of beach at the foot of the city), relaxing with a good book whilst overlooking the warm waters of the In­dian Ocean or watching your grandchildren splash in the water. Who knows – maybe you’ll even join in! Those seeking an adrena­line rush are invited to paddle out on a surf­board and catch the next wave. Just remem­ber to practice good self care and stay in shady areas during the hottest times of the day. Alternatively, consider travelling during a season when temperatures are lower.

If you can’t get enough of South Africa’s nat­ural beauty, head to Blyde River Canyon Na­ture Reserve. Enjoy a lovely scenic drive while taking in the awe-inspiring panorama of the pristine river that’s cut through jagged rocks. Another place that’s not to be missed is the Wild Coast. Located in the northern part of the eastern coast, the section of coastline is considered by many to be one of the wildest – and most beautiful – places on earth.