Secret South Africa

Johannesburg is Africa’s wealthiest and slickest city, with high-tech infrastructure and plenty of intriguing contrasts. As the regional hub for Southern Africa, you land at OR Tambo International Airport and have the convenience of spending the first night of your South African bush-and-beach break at a modern airport hotel. The InterContinental Johannesburg OR Tambo is the perfect answer to shrug off a long-haul flight and get you revitalised for the rest of your holiday. Simply stroll from the airport and check in. Why we love InterContinental Johannesburg OR Tambo: Wi-Fi to catch up with news from home Extremely convenient position Restaurant on-site for easy meals Swimming pool, gym and spa

In a land of contrasts, today provides an even bigger one. After a night’s rest behind the soundproofed windows of the InterContinental, you take a light aircraft and wing your way over the Drakensberg range and land at Phinda Airstrip. A private reserve in the sub-tropical province of KwaZulu-Natal, Phinda is a conservation success story. For four nights, you can track rhino, find leopard, watch lions and perhaps even find an elusive pangolin all under the watchful eye of expert guides. Why we love Rock Lodge: Intimate stone cottages with stunning views Private plunge pool overlooking the valley Butler service and private dining Specialist photographic vehicle

If you got a taste of a marine safari while at Rock Lodge thanks to Phinda’s proximity to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, then your next stop will take sea life to the next level. You’ll be driven to Thonga Beach Lodge in the far north. This pristine stretch of sandy beach – where yours can be the only footprints for hours – borders the Maputaland Marine Protected Area. The warm Indian Ocean promises a fantastic stay with boating, diving and snorkelling on the menu. Why we love Thonga Beach Lodge: Truly off the beaten track Diving visibility of up to 20m / 65ft Premier dive site in a marine reserve Kayaking, snorkelling and a spa

A gentle pace, the chance to unpack your bags and settle in, and awe-inspiring experiences are the keystones of this trip. Taking in two of South Africa’s secret gems will give you an understanding of just how much the country has to offer. It may be tough to tear yourself away from Thonga. Today you repack your bags and are taken to Richards Bay Airport for the short flight back to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, totally rested and refreshed!