Backpackers South Africa
Here are a few reasons why you should be sign up for Backpackers South Africa; South Africa is the most beautiful backpacker destination in the world
Backpackers South Africa experience mega-diverse landscape
There are only 17 countries in the world that are classed as mega-diverse in terms of its fauna, flora and the amount of species unique to that country. Most of these are very large countries that span vast areas in diverse topographical regions. South Africa is – in travel terms – manageably small, yet it is truly mega-diverse these are just some of the reason why backpackers South Africa are enjoying themselves.
In the west the stunningly rugged coastline merges with the Namib Desert (one of the driest in the world) to make up the skeleton coastline. In the east the aptly named “wild coast” provides some of the most beautiful unspoilt beaches in the world.
The Cape floral kingdom represents less than 0.5% of the area of Africa but is home to nearly 20% of the continent’s floral species.
Backpackers South Africa will also appreciate the interior (heart) of the country that provides some of the most remarkable wildlife sanctuaries in the world. National parks such as Kruger, Addo, Limpopo Transfrontier and Kalahari have captured the imagination of wildlife enthusiast across the world.
The Namaqualand in the north turns into the world’s largest wildflower garden once a year just after the first rains (go ahead google Namaqualand flowers!). Then SA has some of the most unique mountain ranges anywhere on the planet.
The Drakensberg, Waterberg and of course Table Mountain offer breath-taking, world class views. That is why SA has the highest repeat tourism of any long-haul destination in the world
Diverse coastlines
It is because of this immense diversity on land that Backpackers South Africa forget that South Africa also has one of the most diverse coastlines in the world.
Two very different oceanic currents flank the coastline – the west coast of Southern Africa is surrounded by the cold Benguela Current and on the east coast the warm Agulhas Currents moves south from the equator.
The 2500km plus coastline plays host to 83% of all known marine fish families, with 13% endemic. Even more impressive is the 36% endemic invertebrates, where SA boasts several squid and jellyfish that are found nowhere else.
The standout for tourists must be the largest migration in the world (even larger than the wildebeest in the Serengeti!).
The “Sardine run” as it is called locally produces one of the greatest animal spectacles on earth. Imagine tens of thousands of birds plunging from the sky, feeding on the fish (literally millions!), with larger game fish and numerous species of sharks all feasting on the wealth of food that is available.
Backpackers South Africa can enjoy the thrill of Africa
The political situation is a separate issue from the actual physical beauty of a country, but it has to be discussed. South Africa provides a balance between the best and worst of African hospitality.
I have been to many parts of the continent where the mix isn’t as great as here and you feel more threatened than relaxed. Be careful, South Africa is a corrupt and sometimes dangerous country in many parts (so is Paris, New York or London for that matter).
You can read many negative articles about these things, but that is not my focus. I just want to say that I think tourists can still come here and experience wonderful hospitality.
South Africans are mostly a friendly bunch, especially while having a braai, watching sport and enjoying a beer. However, tourists also need to be aware that This is Africa (TIS) and they need to be vigilant.
Whether right or wrong, it is precisely this vigilance that can add to the excitement of visiting Africa. It is uniquely dangerous, rugged and for years the mystique of visiting the “darkest continent” has been the allure that drew many adventurous travellers
These are the various things backpackers South Africa can enjoy all over South Africa
Top Things backpackers South Africa can See and Do in Johannesburg:
Start your day at Greenside Cafe with one of their delicious vegan breakfasts.
If you are looking to understand South Africa’s tumultuous history, make a stop at the Apartheid Museum.
Explore the Cradle of Mankind, a World Heritage site and discover what life was like for our ancestors more than 3 million years ago.
Unleash your inner art freak and explore the creative melting pot that is Maboneng District.
Top Things backpackers South Africa can see and Do in the Drakensberg
Hike Tugela Falls in the Royal Natal National Park
Visit Cathedral Peak Nature Reserve. It is home to the largest indigenous forest in the Drakensberg and 3, 900 rock art paintings.
Sign up for rock climbing day trips to the Swinburne area or the high berg for more advanced climbers.
Top Things backpackers South Africa can see and do In Durban
Explore the city on foot with one of Curiocity Backpackers walking tours.
Get wet with the Durban’s variety of water sports.
Visit The Chairman, a sophisticated jazz bar and one of the best-kept secrets of the city.
Head to Cool Runnings on a Thursday and take part or watch their epic drum circle event
Top Things backpackers South Africa can See and Do in Umzumbe
Take part in one of the daily yoga classes at Mantis and Moon’s on-site studio, surrounded by the forest.
Learn how to surf with a professional instructor at Mantis and Moon.
Explore the Umzumbe blue flag beach and keep a look out for dolphins, whales, crabs and plenty of other sea life.
Take a day trip to Lake Eland and choose from a self-drive safari, gorge swinging, abseiling and a zip line that reaches speeds of 160 km/h.
Tips for backpackers South Africa
- Backpackers South Africa shouldn’t get bags that are too big
While it may seem tempting to buy a large one and fill it with things you ‘might’ need, don’t forget you’ll spend a lot of time carrying your backpack around. So the lighter it is the better for you.
- Do things by halves
When preparing for your trip, do a packing trial run. Pack your bag full of everything you think you’ll need, then unpack it all and half it. You’ll be very glad you did later.
- Roll your clothes
You’ll be surprised how much space you save – and it helps to avoid creasing!
- Bring Gaffer tape
The perfect tool for quickly fixing broken straps or holes in backpacks. And a million other things.
- Pack some plastic bags
To keep wet swimwear, dirty shoes and leaky shower gels separate from the rest of your things. If you bring clear plastic bags, you’ll be able to stay super organised by separating out your clothes into categories (shorts/t-shorts/leggings etc) and packing them in separate bags. It will make things easier to find and will add another layer of waterproofing.
- Bring a lock
Keep unwanted hands out of our backpack. A local will deter would-be thieves.
- Bring a bike lock
Attach your backpack to the post of your bed in your guesthouse or hostel.
- Save weight
Don’t take an entire Boots store in your backpack. Take a few essentials like sun cream, shampoo and toothpaste, but remember you will be able to buy these things in most of the world too
- Don’t pack too many clothes
Here are 2 very good reasons why: 1) you will want to bring back souvenirs and buy more clothes when you’re away anyway, so you need to make sure you have room and 2) you’ll probably end up wearing the same few pieces the whole time anyway!
- Stand out from the crowd
Add a tie/belt/strap/scarf to your suitcase or backpack so you can easily identify it at the luggage carousel.