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Nature lovers: nature in South Africa

South Africa is an incredibly large country. So big, in fact, that this country fits over 30 times the size of the Netherlands. Yes, thirty times! South Africa is therefore home to everything from lush jungles to vast savannahs and from the rugged ocean to the most impressive mountains.

Charlie's Travels | Blog | Nature lovers: nature in South Africa

Sustainable travel to South Africa with Charlie's Travels

Every day we try to make our trips more sustainable. For instance, we work with various partners who are committed to the well-being of our planet. Well, flying to faraway places may not be the most sustainable choice, but together we can make your trip a greener one. In enchanting South Africa, we spread tourists around the country via different routes, embracing eco-lodges and building links with locals. South Africa is beautiful and we want to keep it that way: that's why we offer trips where respect for local communities and Mother Nature is key.

Nature in South Africa

This article will mainly talk about South Africa's flora, but of course a safari cannot be missed during your trip. When people think of a safari park in South Africa, they quickly think of the Kruger National Park. Logically, it is the largest safari park in Africa. But therefore also a hugely busy and touristy safari park. And honestly, nobody is waiting for 37 land cruisers to stand around one lion while we all do our best to shoot the perfect snapshot. Right? Well, at least not us. Fortunately, South Africa has many other beautiful safari parks where you can also be sure to spot the Big 5 and other African animals.  

Plants and trees in South Africa

When you think of a trip to South Africa, you often think of safari, the wine countries and Table Mountain. But often forgotten are South Africa's impressive trees and plants. Not only this country is rich in unique flora and fauna, the entire African continent has a treasure trove of unique trees and plants.

Vegetation South Africa

Because South Africa is very large, it also has diverse climates. The corresponding temperatures and precipitation of these different climates make for very diverse vegetation. For instance, you have the fine forest region and Cape plant kingdom in the south-west of the country, The rest of South Africa consists of savannahs, steppes, grasslands and deserts, each with their own vegetation. Only half a per cent of the total area consists of forests. Despite this, around 100 tree species still occur in South Africa.

Trees in South Africa

Which 100 tree species are found in South Africa? Well, 100 species is quite a few, of course, but the national tree of South Africa is, in Afrikaans, the upland yellowwood (Podocarpus Latifolius). A popular forest area is in the far south, around Krsyna, west of Port Elizabeth. These forests include 35-metre-high Podocarpus species, Cape beech and Laurifolia.

‘South Africa's national tree is the Podocarpus Latifolius,’ says Krsyna.

Near the slightly higher Oos-London area, mangroves are found alongside palms, wild banana trees and milk trees. In the subtropical areas, you will find more palm species, but also Albizzia species.

What plants grow in South Africa?

Table Mountain is an iconic mountain in South Africa, located in Cape Town. Its flat summit resembles a table and offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Table Mountain is famous for its unique shape and the cable car that takes visitors to the top. Millions of people enjoy hiking, picnicking and the panoramic views here. In addition, you will also encounter a lot of unusual flora and fauna here. So definitely worth a visit, but keep in mind that you will share this experience with many other tourists.

Table Mountain: South Africa's most famous landmark

Table Mountain is an iconic mountain in South Africa, located in Cape Town. Its flat summit resembles a table and offers breathtaking views of the city and the ocean. Table Mountain is famous for its unique shape and the cable car that takes visitors to the top. Millions of people enjoy hiking, picnicking and the panoramic views here. In addition, you will also encounter a lot of unusual flora and fauna here. So definitely worth a visit, but keep in mind that you share this experience with many other tourists.

Need more peace and quiet? Visit Drakensberg

If you're looking for an unforgettable hike with stunning views during your trip through South Africa, a visit to the Drakensberg Mountains is an absolute must! This breathtaking mountain range, which inspired Tolkien to write Lord of the Rings, is a true natural wonder. With dramatic peaks, vast plains, hidden valleys and bizarre rock formations, the Drakensberg Mountains stretch for 1,000 kilometres, with peaks exceeding 3,000 metres! And that's not all! You'll also find Africa's highest waterfall here - the Tugela Falls and don't share this experience with as many tourists as Table Mountain.

South Africa's beaches

Shall we just name it one more time? South Africa is huge! So besides the different landscapes, trees, plants and sights, South Africa's coast also has more than enough to offer. Whether you want to spot penguins, enjoy solitary beach walks, enjoy fresh seafood, or look for idyllic coastal towns.... South Africa's beaches are like a versatile menu where everyone can find their own tasty experience.

For the active: water sports around Cape Town

Cape Town has a beautiful coastline with several beaches that are perfect for various water sports. The meeting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, creates interesting conditions for water sports enthusiasts. So, if you like a mix of adrenaline, beautiful views and various water sports, Cape Town is definitely the place to be! Whether you like surfing, kitesurfing or windsurfing, Cape Town's coast is ideal for all these activities.

1. Muizenberg Beach

Perhaps one of South Africa's most photographed spots is Muizenberg. The colourful beach houses stand out brightly against the vast beaches and surrounding mountains. The waves here break far offshore and this makes for perfect wave surfing. Because Muizenberg is actually in a giant bay, the water here is a bit warmer than at Blouberg.

2. Bloubergstrand

For the more adventurous types, Bloubergstrand is a hotspot for kitesurfing because of its constant wind. The views of Table Mountain and the city add another dimension to the experience.

Sleeping in nature: our favourite accommodations in South Africa's countryside

After a day full of impressions and open mouths thanks to South Africa's beautiful flora and fauna, it is of course an added bonus when you get to sleep in the middle of nature. We share with you our 3 favourite accommodations in South Africa's nature.

1. Khotso Lodge in Underberg

Khotso Lodge is an oasis for nature lovers. Constructed from local, sustainable materials and powered by solar energy, this lodge is not only a haven, but also a model of commitment to community projects and a boost to the local economy. Travel Consultant Anna shares her enthusiasm, “The ideal blend of adventure, sustainability and enchanting mountain landscapes makes Khotso Lodge my number one ecolodge in South Africa. Here you can horseback ride, enjoy the surroundings and at the same time make a positive contribution to the local community. It's a place where you become one with nature and can relax in an eco-friendly environment.”

2. Isambane Bush Camp

Isambane's wilderness camp is located in the Greater Kruger, one of the wildest places in South Africa. The Kruger National Park is home to an abundance of animals, including the Big 5. At Isambane, guests stay in private tents with incredible views, surrounded by the African bush and the sound of nature as background music.

3. Sea Shack

Along the beautiful Cape Town coast you will find Sea Shack - not a regular campsite or hotel, but glamping! Nice and basic, but very cozy. The wooden cabins are on the beach and you look out over the sea, as close as you can get. Enjoy the tranquility, the view and the company. Here you will experience an eco-friendly haven, where hair dryers may be missing, but electricity for your gadgets is abundant.  

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