Backroads

Called "the river that never meets the sea," the Okavango is the world’s largest inland delta – a labyrinth of lakes, channels, lagoons and islands harboring a vast range of African wildlife that would not otherwise survive in the harsh Kalahari. You spend two unforgettable days exploring the region by mokoro (canoe) and Land Rover.

Lions. Rhinos. Elephants. Buffalos. Leopards. Not to mention cheetahs, hyenas, giraffes, zebras, hippos, wildebeests, baboons… We get you amazingly close to big game at the private Londolozi reserve, a 35,000-acre wildlife haven. And Londolozi’s excellent relations with local tribal villages offer unique opportunities to learn more about traditional African culture.

The South African dining experience is as diverse as the country itself, where East meets West – and North and South. Savor Cape Malay cuisine, a sweet and spicy mix of Asian and Mediterranean flavors. Enjoy European-style afternoon tea. And at remote game reserves, sit down to a feast of regional specialties beneath the star-filled African sky – serenaded by an occasional chorus of hyenas.

Get to know the real South Africa through our charismatic experts: Thandu, our Xhosa guide, provides insight into the everyday life and traditions of black South Africans. Lotus, a young Shangaani man, coordinates community development projects for the villages bordering Sabi Sand Game Reserve. And Margot Winer, an archaeologist at the University of Cape Town, sheds light on South Africa’s rich cultural past.

Bushman’s Kloof Wilderness Reserve is home to 130 ancient San (Bushman) rock art sites. Gain a new understanding of Africa’s past during an interpretive walk to Fallen Rock, which has some of the region’s best-preserved images, subtly detailed and fascinating in their depiction of the spiritual world.

Thanks to the great strides made by vintners in the post-apartheid years, the world has been gushing over South African wines. As part of our Insider journey, we dive deep into a heritage that extends over 350 years, tasting outstanding regional wines you’d not likely find at home – including the heralded pinotage, a blend of pinot noir and hermitage that is unique to South Africa.