There are few places in the world where you can wake up to the sound of lions in the wild and end your day with a glass of South African wine or a perfectly chilled gin & tonic with canapés, while reclining in a bona fide safari park.

My trip to South Africa was a serious bucket-list adventure—a whirlwind of fascinating contrasts. Luxury and wilderness, history and adventure, all wrapped up in an unforgettable journey from Johannesburg to Durban, Cape Town, and some incredible game reserves in between.

Durban: The Perfect Beginning

With its dramatic Indian Ocean coastline, this exquisite city instantly captivated me. It feels both European and uniquely African, blending old-world charm with modern energy. But the highlight of my time there wasn’t just the beauty; it was exploring it in a way I’d never imagined.