Bushbaby Tours

Midlands

It’s hard not to be bewitched by the lush generosity of the KwaZulu Natal Midlands. Snuggled between the mighty Drakensberg and the picturesque South Coast, the Midlands is abundant in water – streams cascade into ponds, and rivers wind through verdant valleys into tranquil dams and lakes. Here you’ll be held hostage by history as you trail through the battlefields or Zulu cultural villages.

Midlands Highlights

Midlands Meander – Arguably the best known attraction of the Midlands the Midlands Meander is a magical 80km drive along a fascinating arts and craft route, boasting over 150 restaurants, shops, galleries and hotels.
Curry’s Post – Centrally located and offering the ideal place from which to explore the Midland’s Meander, Curry’s Post was once a staging post between Durban, the Kimberley diamond fields and the Johannesburg gold fields. Historical figures such as Barney Barnato, Cecil John Rhodes, Rudyard Kipling and Winston Churchill past through Curry’s Post. Today you can fish, play golf, enjoy watersports on the Midmar Dam, go quad biking and hiking and take a canopy tour in the vicinity.
Hilton – Just north of Pietermaritzburg, Hilton is the southern gateway to the Midlands Meander.
Howick – A key tourism hotspot along the Midlands Meander is the Howick Falls which have a spectacular 90m fall with an inspirational view. While in Howick stop by at some of the antique stores and arts and crafts markets in the town
Mooi River – “Pretty River” in Afrikaans, Mooi River was so named b the early settlers to the region. While a number of minor engagements took place at Mooi River during the second Boer War, today it is a holiday-makers paradise offering boating, fly fishing, camping and picnicking all along the river. There are a number of stud farms in the […]

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|Kwazulu Natal|0 Comments

Durban

Durban has its own unique flavour. Its hot, sub-tropical climate leads to long lazy days on golden beaches followed by steamy nights relaxing or partying among the many faces of this city.

Visit Durban for a cultural explosion of colours, sights, smells and tastes – it is home to a large Indian community and the flavours of the East influence the look and feel of the city- women in silk saris; the aroma of curry luring you into restaurants. You haven’t experienced Durban unless you’ve tasted a Bunny Chow – hot curry served in a hollowed out half-loaf of bread.

Durban is a great destination for surfers – unlike in Cape Town, surfers here can take to the waves in board shorts and stay out for hours – no need for wetsuits in this warm water.

Durban Attractions

uShaka Marine World – incredible aquarium, live dolphin shows, entertainment centre with waterslides, shops and restaurants
Wonderful beaches for swimming, surfing, windsuring, body boarding and canoeing
Greyville Racecourse, home of the annual Durban July
Nature lovers destinations – Durban Botanical Gardens featuring the Orchid House, Jameson Park’s beautiful rose garden, Mitchell Park; Burman Nature Reserve, Japanese Botanical Gardens; Umgeni River Bird Park, Kloof Gorge; Shongweni Dam.
Shopping and dining – Florida Road in Morningside / Berea, Musgrave, Botha’s Hill in Hillcrest / Gillitts, The Pavilion Mall, Windemere Road and 9th Avenue in Greyville
Valley of a Thousand Hills – 25 min from Durban.
pheZulu Safari park – 35km from Durban. Zulu dancing and cultural shows, crocodile & snake park.
Inchanga Choo Choo – a great family outing aboard a steam train.

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|Kwazulu Natal|0 Comments

Drakensberg

Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots if you’re heading to KwaZulu Natal’s Drakensberg (Dragon Mountain in English), because this is hiking country at its best. Towering up at over 3400 meters, the craggy cliffs and hills of the Drakensberg are also called uKhahlamba (Barrier of Spears in Zulu) because of the sharp spear-like peaks that jutted into the skies.

Today these majestic mountains form a natural border between South Africa and the Kingdom of Lesotho, and contain some of the finest examples of San rock art to be seen in South Africa. Expect some snow in winter (great for skiing at SA’s only snow ski resort) and a floral feast in spring.

Drakensberg Highlights

Battlefields – Brimming with sites and reminders of the Boer, British and Zulu battles that occurred here. Visit the mGungundlovu, where the Zulu chief, Dingaan wiped out Piet Retief and his fellow Voortrekker followers. Other historically interesting sites include the Ultimatum Tree, Bloukrans, Blood River, Rorke’s Drift and the renowned Isandlwana where the British were defeated. Don’t miss out on Ladysmith, and the Talana Museum at Dundee.
Bergville – Gateway to the Northern Drakensberg and an ideal place from which to enter this beautiful South Africa tourism region. Visit the nearby Zulu handicraft centre, Thandanani to purchase traditional beadwork, woodwork and baskets.
Champagne Valley – A beautiful valley, nestling in the foothills of the mighty Drakensberg Mountains and offers wonderful hikes in the unspoilt Monks Cowl Nature Reserve. Towering above is Champagne Castle the second highest peak of the Drakensberg. A popular destination for Drakensberg weddings.
Kamberg Valley – beautiful flora, varied fauna, San rock art, walking, birding and riding.
Spioenkop – the site of one of the bloodiest battles of the Anglo Boer War. Today the Spioenkop Dam is […]

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|Kwazulu Natal|0 Comments

Battlefields

When faced with the natural beauty of the KwaZulu Natal Battlefields it can initially be hard to imagine that so much bloodshed has taken place here, but the very name of the vast region reminds one that in these picturesque hills and vales with their unique rock formations, the mighty Zulu nation collided with the bullish British in a series of skirmishes that saw spear and firearm vying for victory.

There’s something about walking where renowned military men and other leaders fought that really makes history come alive – this is where the great Shaka trained his men for war, where Churchill, Ghandi and Botha played pivotal roles and where the blood of thousands soaked into the green grass.
KZN Battlefield Highlights

Anglo-Boer War Sites – visit Spioenkop, Rorke’s Drift, Dundee, Ladysmith and Isandlwana – a local registered guide will be able to help you learn about who fought whom where, and why. Learn about the various strategies used in battle, hear stories of bravery and loss – history in school was never this tangible! Visit Fugitives Drift which overlooks the Battlefields of Isandlwana.
Big Game Safaris – Visit Spioenkop Game Reserve to enjoy the sight of giraffe nibbling on acacias, zebra grazing in the grass and rhino cooling off at a watering hole at this malaria-free reserve in the foothills of the majestic Drakensberg.
Outdoor Experiences – The natural topography of Battlefields create challenging hikes through beautiful landscapes. Fight your own battles on a river raft with the white water rapids of the Thukela River. Enjoy exploring the region on horseback. Plenty of rivers and dams with associated wetlands mean great birding and fishing opportunities abound.
Cultural Experiences – View San Rock Art near Rorke’s Drift – ideal for an outing when you […]

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|Kwazulu Natal|0 Comments

Kwazulu Natal

Geographically, KwaZulu Natal is sub-tropical along the low-lying coast, extending inland to a region characterised by plains and rivers, and then to the two mountain ranges – the Drakensberg in the west and the Lebombo Mountains in the North.

KwaZulu Natal Highlights

Arts and Crafts: The Midlands Meander is South Africa’s first and largest arts and crafts route, extending around 80 km from Pietermaritzburg to Mooi River. Along this route a miscellany of artists and craftspeople create and sell their wares – from weavers to potters to wine makers and more.
Beaches and beach activities: Durban and the North and South Coasts of KZN offer beautiful beaches, ideal for surfing, snorkelling, and fishing, swimming and diving holidays. KZN’s caramel coloured shores, coastal forests and warm waves make some of South Africa’s most beautiful beaches.
Golf: There are more than 60 superb golf courses particularly along the coast, including the famous Zimbali, Selbourne and Umdoni golf courses, as well as the Links course at Prince’s Grant near Stanger.
History & culture: Journey back in time at the Battlefields of Isandlwana and Rourke’s Drift where the historic battles were fought between the British and the Zulus. The Anglo Boer war was fought from Spioenkop and Ladysmith to Talana at Dundee. Those with anthropological leanings can visit tribal villages, which offer a glimpse into Zulu culture and traditions. .
Mountaineering: The Drakensberg (Dragon Mountain) or Ukahlamba (barrier of spears) as it’s known in Zulu, is a basalt and sandstone barricade between the lush KwaZulu Natal coast and the drier interior. Most of the range forms part of the Ukahlamba-Drakensberg National Park where numerous hiking trails, fascinating San rock art, and wonderful game watching and birding prospects abound.
uShaka Marine World: uShaka in Durban is a […]

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|South Africa|0 Comments

Johannesburg

Pulsating, vibrant and fast. Stop for a moment in Joburg or Jozi as the city is affectionately called, and you’ll surely get left behind! It’s that kind of city. Known as eGoli (city of gold), Johannesburg was established in 1886 and its early history was famously characterized by the “Randlords and Rogues” of the gold rush.

Today the inner city has a distinctly African feel with many hawkers selling their wares on the sidewalks. In the northern suburbs of Sandton, Rosebank and Houghton suburban bliss abounds with tree-lined avenues and gated suburbs. The city is the largest and the wealthiest in South Africa and is literally packed with shopping centres, theatres and cinemas.

Johannesburg attractions

Sandton incorporating Sandown, Bryanston and Morningside- shop, eat, drink and play; Visit Nelson Mandela Square and the Lilliesleaf Museum; Pop in at the Rosebank Rooftop Market on Sundays
Melville – jammed with delightful restaurants, quaint coffee shops, bookstores, art galleries, junk shops and uber-hip bars.
Soweto – South Africa’s biggest, vibiest township. Home of the World Cup Soccer City Stadium. Visit the world class Hector Petersen Museum.
Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site– discover the past by visiting Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves visitor centres.
Gallagher Estate – popular conference venue
Kyalami Race Track – home of motor racing in Gauteng
The South African Lipizzaners – the only performing Lipizzaners outside Vienna, recognised by the Spanish Riding School.
The Apartheid Museum – excellent and interactive testament to the horrors of Apartheid.
The Market City Precinct – THE Arts and Cultural Centre of Gauteng Province.
Emmarentia Dam – popular venue for music concerts and family picnics
Magaliesberg Meander – take in all the craft shops, tea houses and artists and work

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|South Africa|0 Comments

Port Elizabeth

Known as ‘The Friendly City’, Port Elizabeth is the fifth largest South African city and the capital of the Eastern Cape.

Ideal for family holidays, Port Elizabeth is a city which feels more like a town – big enough to have everything you need but small enough to feel right at home and welcomed.

As PE has the largest stretch of coast between Cape Town and Durban, it is a popular holiday destination for those seeking summer sun and sandy beaches. Many people end their travels up the Garden Route from Cape Town with a few nights in PE, and the Addo region, renowned for its elephants and other big game. This area is very popular for those wanting to experience a Big 5 safari to round off their South African travels.

Port Elizabeth Attractions:

Action adventure: Watersports – from kite and wind surfing to scuba diving, hang gliding and paragliding and also mountain biking, quad biking, 4×4 off road courses – just some of the adrenalin seekers’ activities available in the PE area. Iron Man takes place in PE each year, where endurance athletes compete while the streets are thronged with supporters.
Beaches: Port Elizabeth has a great selection of beaches – Hobie Beach, Humewood, Summerstrand, Kings Beach with its popular promenade and the MacArthur Baths are all great for days on the beach. Snorkeling, scuba diving, kite boarding and surfing are possible at a number of PE beaches. Go to Maitland River Mouth beach for fun on the giant sand dunes.
Culture: PE has a numerous interesting museums and galleries, from the St Croix Motor Museum for lovers of vintage automobiles, to the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum which houses a collection of South African art (specifically from the Eastern Cape), British art, international printmaking and Oriental art.
Golf: […]

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|Eastern Cape|0 Comments

Jeffery’s Bay

Known the world over as a Mecca for the global surfing community, Jeffrey’s Bay, or J-Bay as it’s known to the locals, is one of South Africa’s best loved seaside towns.

Apart from the excellent waves that enthusiasts travel from far and wide to surf, there’s plenty to do for all ages in J-Bay.

Jeffrey’s Bay Highlights

Beach-based activities: Surf the world’s best waves, go sandboarding, or simply enjoy walking along the beach for miles on soft white sands of Paradise Beach. Nearby Cape St Francis offers an alternate surfing venue if J-Bay’s packed.
Dining out: Moya Manzi recommends Tapas in Aston Bay (try the Calamari – its fantastic!), Kitchen Windows and The Greek
J-Bay Festivals: Talent spot at the Billabong pro Surfing Competition every July. Or for something more laid-back, enjoy the Shell Festival each September
Shopping opportunities: Kit yourself out in the latest surf fashions – visit Billabong Village, Country Feeling (homegrown fashion) and the numerous other surf factory shops. Fountains Shopping Mall is another good place to enjoy some retail therapy.
Experience nature: Beaches aside, nature lovers can also enjoy spending time outdoors at Baviaanskloof Wilderness and the Tsitiskamma Nature reserve a short drive away, or hang with the animals at African Dawn Wild Life Sanctuary.

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|Eastern Cape|0 Comments

Eastern Cape

The Eastern Cape is the second largest province in South Africa and a paradise of beautiful beaches, indigenous mountain forests and rugged semi-desert landscapes. It is the perfect place to go hiking, see the Big 5 in malaria-free safari lodges or simply soak up the sun and natural beauty.

It is also an area of great cultural and historic interest. It was here that much of South Africa’s history was forged in a series of clashes between different cultures including the Frontier Wars of the nineteenth century. Nelson Mandela was born in a rural Eastern Cape village in 1918.
Eastern Cape Highlights

The friendly and central city of Port Elizabeth.
Glorious beaches and nature of the Sunshine Coast (between St Francis Bay and East London) including the world-famous surfing mecca of Jeffrey’s Bay.
Game viewing of the “Big 5” at the Addo Elephant Park and private game reserves.
Lush sub-tropical rolling hills, traditional villages and secluded beaches of the Wild Coast.
Karoo desert scenery and nature including the majestic Valley of Desolation.
Charming, historic Karoo towns such as Graaff Reinet and Ladysmith.
The indigenous forests and beauty of the Amatola mountains.

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|South Africa|0 Comments

South Africa

South Africa is a land of vast contrasts and is full of surprises – its natural beauty amazes all who explore it. The diversity of the land can take you from the endless beaches of Cape Town to the untamed wilderness of its’ game reserves, all within a few hours.

The opportunities for travel are exceptional……this country will be able to offer you exactly what you are looking for, if not more!!

By admin|February 23rd, 2015|Uncategorised|0 Comments

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