A diverse landscape and plentiful outdoor adventures are the highlights of a stay in a South African vacation rental, home, villa, or condo. The Atlantic and Indian Oceans temper its varied climate and outdoor recreation is abundant with activities including hiking, rock climbing, mountain climbing, biking, camping, safaris, river rafting, and the highest bungee jump in the world. But the city life is alive and well, too. Shopping, casinos, nightclubs, museums, restaurants, and markets are all prevalent. In Cape Town, hike up Table Mountain, and in Johannesburg visit Cradle of Humankind where the oldest hominid was found. Visit one of the many national parks and reserves full of plants, beautiful landscapes, and wildlife, including the Big Five — the lion, leopard, buffalo, rhinoceros, and elephant — carefully preserved and protected for visitors to see and enjoy.

While enjoying your respite in your vacation home, don’t forget to enjoy South African cuisine and wine, which are celebrated and revered around the world. Wineries and fine restaurants are located all over the country, and game specialties such as ostrich, venison, Springbok carpaccio, and wild duck are available for the tasting. Be sure to try a braai, or traditional outdoor barbeque, for traditional favorites such as skilpadjies, chops and steak, and pot bread.