Surika's South African Escape
South Africa, the Rainbow Nation, is an extraordinary destination filled with unforgettable experiences from incredible wildlife encounters to world-class food, wine and breathtaking landscapes. In February 2026, I had the wonderful opportunity to experience this beautiful country on the Mega Lekker Escape to South Africa, hosted by Adventure World Travel in partnership with South African Tourism.
Part ONE - Safari Experience
Over 14 + incredible days, I explored some of South Africa’s most iconic regions — from luxury safari lodges and scenic road trips along the Garden Route to the vineyards of the Cape and vibrant Cape Town. Travelling from Perth is easy with direct flights to Johannesburg with South African Airways, taking just over 11 hours.
Our journey began with a transfer to Marataba Game Lodge, set within a private concession of the malaria-free Marakele National Park in the Waterberg Mountains. This luxurious and private lodge offers spectacular wildlife encounters, and we were fortunate to spot the Big Five within our first 24 hours.
Lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalo roam wild and free, thrilling safari moments that capture the heart and showcase the raw beauty of the wild.
Our days were filled with twice-daily game drives, sunset river cruises on the nearby Matlabas River, and unforgettable bush dining experiences. Marataba also supports community initiatives such as “Pack for a Purpose”, allowing travellers like us to give back and contribute to local charity projects and donate essential items such as school supplies for students attending local schools.
From waking up to the gentle calls of the wild and watching the sun set and the bush come alive, you will fall in love with Marataba, a special place to retreat in sanctuary and an experience I will cherish forever.
Part two - The Garden Route Road Trip
After three nights on safari, we flew to Port Elizabeth and began a self-drive journey along South Africa’s famous Garden Route, one of the country’s most scenic drives.
Highlights included:
> Tsitsikamma National Park – walking across the Storms River suspension bridge, surrounded by dramatic coastline and indigenous forest
> Plettenberg Bay – a charming seaside town with beautiful beaches and nearby wineries
> Knysna – famous for its lagoon, the Knysna Heads and delicious local oysters. A ferry to the pristine Featherbed Nature reserve for a wonderful Eco experience of guided walking trails and breathtaking views is a must!
From Knysna, we continued inland through the rugged Outeniqua Mountains to Oudtshoorn, the “Ostrich Capital of the World”. Our stay at the charming Swartberg Country Manor in the Cango Valley provided the perfect base to explore the spectacular Cango Caves and drive the legendary Swartberg Pass to Prince Albert.
Part Three - Cape Winelands & Cape Town
Cape Winelands & Cape TownA highlight for me was definitely climbing Huayna Picchu Mountain, known as Stairs of Death due to its challenging climb, and then visiting Machu Picchu at a more leisurely pace. Being at Machu Picchu is just incredible, and we learnt a great deal of the history and the discovery of Machu Picchu from our local guides.
The journey continued through Route 62 and the Cape Winelands, passing picturesque farming towns, fruit orchards and historic wine estates before arriving in Cape Town.
Staying in the elegant Claremont Boutique Hotel, part of the exclusive Sabi Sabi collection, we enjoyed exploring one of the world’s most beautiful cities.
Highlights include:
> Riding the cableway to Table Mountain for panoramic views. Insider tip: arrive early to beat the queues!
> Exploring the vibrant and hip V&A Waterfront
> Strolling through the lively Oranjezicht City Farm Market
> Klein Constantia, one of the most stunning wine estates in Cape Town, since 1685
> Chic dining in the trendy Kloof Street area
> Glam beach vibes and cool palm-fringed ocean view dining at Camps Bay
Part FOUR - Johannesburg & Sun City
After Cape Town, we returned to Johannesburg before finishing our journey at the spectacular Palace of the Lost City at Sun City Resort, offering world-class dining, golf courses, the Valley of the Waves water park and easy access to Pilanesberg National Park for additional safari experiences.
We end our trip with a special 3-course meal onboard the elegant Rovos Rail, offering a taste of one of the world’s most luxurious train journeys from Pretoria. Delightful!
South Africa truly offers something for every traveller — extraordinary wildlife, breathtaking scenery, vibrant cities, rich culture and outstanding food and wine.
If you’re looking for your next unforgettable adventure, South Africa is calling.
