South Africa & Mauritius: Big Five meets tropical shores

Tzaneen is nestled in the fertile Letaba Valley of Limpopo Province and is known as the green heart of South Africa. The area is characterised by vast tea plantations, subtropical forests and impressive mountain ranges that form a spectacular backdrop. You can explore the breathtaking Magoebaskloof with its dense forests and crystal-clear waterfalls, including the popular Debengeni Falls. The region produces a large portion of South Africa's tropical fruits, tea and avocados, which you'll see reflected in the colourful plantations surrounding the town. Tzaneen forms an ideal base for nature lovers seeking hiking, birdwatching and authentic South African culture. The nearby Modjadji Nature Reserve is home to rare cycad trees and offers panoramic views over the valley. Here you'll experience a different side of South Africa, away from the crowds and right in the middle of a tropical paradise.

Hoedspruit is located in Limpopo province and forms the perfect base for your safari adventure. From this vibrant town, you can reach the world-famous Kruger National Park and various private game reserves within half an hour. You'll discover a rich diversity of wildlife here, from lions and elephants to rare bird species. The area is characterized by vast savannas, impressive baobabs and spectacular sunsets. Besides game drives, you can also take hot air balloon safaris or visit the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre. The local community welcomes you with warm hospitality and authentic South African culture. Hoedspruit combines adventure with comfort and offers lodges for every budget.

Hazyview is your perfect base for exploring South Africa's most iconic wildlife destinations. Nestled in the heart of Mpumalanga's subtropical lowveld, this vibrant town sits just minutes from Kruger National Park's Phabeni Gate. Beyond the Big Five safaris, you'll discover the dramatic Panorama Route with its cascading waterfalls and the mystical Blyde River Canyon. The area's lush landscape is dotted with tropical fruit plantations, adventure activities, and authentic cultural experiences. Whether you're zip-lining through the forest canopy, spotting elephants on a game drive, or sampling local cuisine at bustling markets, Hazyview offers the ultimate blend of wilderness and comfort. This is where your African adventure truly comes alive.

Pretoria welcomes you with a unique mix of history, nature and modern city life. The city is famous for its thousands of jacaranda trees that transform the streets into a beautiful purple carpet in spring. You explore impressive buildings like the Union Buildings with their spectacular views over the city, and visit interesting museums that tell South Africa's story. In the Hatfield and Brooklyn neighbourhoods you find cosy restaurants, cafés and boutiques. Pretoria is strategically located between Johannesburg and Kruger National Park, making it easy for you to take trips to both destinations. The nearby wildlife reserves offer you the chance to spot the Big Five without having to travel far from the city.

Mauritius is a vibrant island nation in the Indian Ocean, located about 900 km east of Madagascar. Known for its stunning beaches, lush landscapes, and multicultural society, Mauritius blends African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences. The capital, Port Louis, is a bustling port city rich in history and culture. The island’s terrain features volcanic mountains, a central plateau, and coastal plains. Its economy thrives on tourism, textiles, sugar, and financial services. With no official language, English and French are widely used, while Mauritian Creole is the lingua franca. Mauritius is also famous for the extinct dodo bird and its unique underwater waterfall illusion near Le Morne Brabant, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.