I was warned before embarking on my recent trip that South Africa can be dangerously addictive.
Having just returned from two enchanting weeks exploring a heady slice of the East and West Cape, I can now fully appreciate the truthfulness of the statement.
I write this article in a state of acute withdrawal.
My heart already yearns for the breathtaking beauty of its coastlines, majesty of its mountains and plainlands and the intoxicating, intangible magic of its atmosphere.
I am hopelessly ensnared.
I was fortunate to be a part of the 2025 Mega Lekker Escape, a brilliant endeavour which saw 100 agents from across Australia and New Zealand travel to South Africa to experience first-hand the beauty and diversity on offer.
I was part of a small group of nine agents hosted by Bench Africa on a trip which saw us enjoying wine tastings, savouring traditional cuisine, adventuring and exploring aplenty, delving into local history, and embarking on truly exceptional game drives.
We spent our first night in Stellenbosch at the Lanzerac Hotel- a historic Cape Dutch Wine Estate nestled against the Hottentot Holland Mountains.
We then entered the vibrant heart of Cape Town – a sprawling city of diverse character and spectacular views.
We ventured down to the relaxed waterfront where we found fascinating markets, then to the colourful Malay quarter and up Table Mountain before watching the sunset over the water while enjoying a classic Braai.
From Cape Town we drove to a private reserve called Grootbos – not far from the well-known whale watching town of Hermanus.
Standing on the balcony, Pinotage in hand, looking over the sweeping coastline with the scent of the Fynbos on the wind – I was in awe.
We enjoyed a Botanical Drive, where our guide opened our eyes to the complexity of life sustained within the unique ecosystems of the region.
We swam in the startlingly cold Atlantic, scrambled through ancient caves, rode horses and fell in love with this slice of heaven.
Our next destination was Sanbona Wildlife Reserve- one of the largest privately-owned reserves in South Africa, spanning across 62,000 hectares of boundless plains and soaring peaks.
Located in Little Karoo, we exchanged the coastal scenery for something almost otherworldly.
I had my first encounters with elephants, rhinos, water buffalo, lions, cheetahs and countless other animals – pinch me moments followed at every turn.
From the dry heat of the Karoo to the beauty of the Garden Route, we worked our way along the coastline through Knysna and Tsitsikamma National Park before arriving at Kariega Private Game Reserve.
Here we saw rivers, mountains and plains all intermingling to create … paradise. When I close my eyes, I can still see the herds of elephants ambling alongside zebra, giraffe, nyala, warthog and rhino.
I can still taste the newfound delight of Springbokkies and I can still feel the warmth of the people who care for such a special place.
Our adventures concluded with a night at the charming Fairlawn’s Hotel in Johannesburg and a conference at the singular Sun City Resort where we gathered to share our experiences and meet some incredible South African operators.
The final piece de resistance was a lunch onboard the magnificent Rovos Rail.
I cannot recommend the experience of travelling with Bench Africa enough.
They are true experts and can craft magical, seamless experiences which transform a trip into a lifechanging experience.
South Africa is a vast country and challenging to navigate alone.
With so much to do and see it makes all the difference in the world to have experts at your side.
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