The rumours are true… South Africa really is one of the most, (bold statement alert) if not the most stunning and varied countries on the planet. It is a country to suit all luxury travellers.

There are few better places to see Africa's wildlife or enjoy excellent restaurants and local wine, beaches, sports of all descriptions, whale-watching, flowers, diamonds, train journeys... the list goes on.

The team at Original Travel has travelled the length and breadth of South Africa in search of luxury holiday perfection, staying at the best lodges and trying out the best activities (and wines). Our favourites include the Kruger Park and adjoining private game reserves, which are easily combined with those in KwaZulu-Natal, the kingdom of the Zulus, where some of the fiercest battles of both the Anglo Zulu and the Boer Wars took place under the peaks of the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains.

Cape Province, stretching the length of the southern coast, has a marvellous Mediterranean climate at is most agreeable for luxury holidays between December and April. Its capital, Cape Town, is the ideal place from which to begin an exploration of the south starting with its own attractions of Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch Gardens and Robben Island, then along the Wine Route and further still into the Great Karoo or east via the Garden Route.

South Africa is a great destination for couples, solo travellers or families (owing to the fact that many parts are malaria free). The safari experiences, which are somewhat overlooked compared to other African counterparts, exhibit wide varieties of wild game and stunning landscapes, especially in the likes of the Eastern Cape and Sabi Sands game reserve. However if you are short on time and fancy a quick getaway, Cape Town and the Winelands are ideal for a long weekend of wine, walking and whales. At risk of sounding like a broken record, South Africa can cater for all, making it a perfect destination for a tailor made experience.