Known as one of the most beautiful areas in the world, are the Cape Provinces in South Africa – made up of the Northern Cape, Eastern Cape and Western Cape.
Bartholomew Diaz the Portuguese explorer discovered the Cape in 1486. The Dutch East Indian Company developed Table Bay into a refreshment station for traders en-route to the East, in 1652. Then as the settlers began to arrive in the area a fort was built at the bottom of Table Mountain, known today as The Castle of Good Hope.
The Cape Provinces are abundant with spectacular places to visit that are full of history and beauty. Starting with a visit to beautiful Cape Town, the capital city of the Western Cape – a place of incredible beauty, wonderful scenic drives, interesting historical sites and the awe inspiring majesty of Table Mountain which is the overpowering backdrop to all that you will experience while touring South Africa.
Then there is the magnificent Garden Route of the Cape, definitely a must for all who appreciate magnificent scenery, rich forests, national parks, charming and picturesque towns and villages and of course a coastline of powerful beauty and excitement. This should be high on any tourist itinerary while visiting South Africa.
The capital city of the Northern Cape is Kimberley where the first diamond in South Africa was discovered and where “The Big Hole” can be found – an incredible sight that must not be missed.
In the Eastern Cape is the Tsitsikamma region, a forest that champions an extraordinary varied ecosystem. The forest is generations old with towering trees and winding rivers that reach all the way to Storm River mouth with a bridge that offers unbelievable views.
The Capital of The Eastern Cape is called Bhisho and was the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, Steve Biko and Thabo Mbeki. Amongst other places to visit in the Eastern Cape is Jeffrey’s Bay, The Elephant National Park, The Wild Coast and, of course, the world’s highest bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge.
All types of accommodation to meet everybody’s pockets is available right through the Cape Provinces. All in all, this whole area is a superb place to visit while touring South Africa with breathtaking scenery and many exciting activities for the whole family.