The KwaZulu-Natal coast is renowned for its mild, sunny winters and temperate climate. Wouldn't you rather be lying on a beach in the low-20 degrees celcius than waking up to frost in the Highveld, or cold rain in the Cape? There is plenty of activity in Durban to keep everyone busy and a highlight is the uShaka Marine World, Africa’s largest Marine Theme park where you can go snorkeling with a variety of marine life and have fun on the water slides. The kids will love it! Then there are the surfing spots both along the Dolphin Coast (north) and the Hibiscus Coast (south). The sub-tropical climate and warm ocean currents guarantee a chill free getaway. Why not try Umhlanga, Umdloti, Ballito or Shelly Beach?
Another firm favourite for a warm winter getaway is game viewing in the Lowveld. Not only are temperatures very mild and extremely pleasant in the northern parts of South Africa, but also because the grass is lower in winter, you are guaranteed to spot more game and a greater variety of species. Go an incredible night game drive with an experienced ranger and see the famous Big Five and loads of other African wildlife at game reserves and national parks across Mpumalanga and Limpopo. High on your list should be the Kruger National Park, Sabi Sand Game Reserve and the Marakele National Park.
Lying in the subtropics means that Tzaneen and its surrounds has very agreeable winter weather, making it a great winter destination. Relatively close to the major centres of Gauteng makes getting to this part of Limpopo a breeze. A highlight of a trip to Tzaneen is visiting one of the oldest monarchs on the planet - a 6,000-year old baobab tree with an astounding circumference of 46,8m. That's massive! To see this marvel of nature get to Sunland Nursery located between Duiwelskloof and Ga-Kgapane. This are of Limpop is also well-regarded for its history and cultural legacy and there is still evidence of cultures that go back thousands of years at places like Magoebaskloof. Enjoy this land of contrasts at any time time of the year, but remember that the mild cooler months are perfect for that well deserved mid-winter break.