SELFTOURS Holiday Guide to South Africa & surrounds
Launched at the turn of the century, SELFTOURS has flourished in an ever growing market, establishing itself as one of the few successful companies specializing in tailor-made holidays, both inbound and outbound. There is much to consider when planning your escape, for you are investing your precious time, hard-earned savings and most of all, the promise of an unforgettable getaway.
SELFTOURS' close association with South Africa’s leading hotel groups, airlines and car rental companies, ensures preferential rates and value for money holidays. Furthermore, Selftours is a registered member of the Knysna tourism bureau, being part of the larger Western Cape Tourism board. 
Financial Peace of mind is part of the deal - as members of SATSA we are annually reviewed and financially approved to maintain our membership with SATSA who financially guarantee your tour - your tour is therefore 'Bonded'
Lastly we are members of SKAL the internationally recognised tourist body
Our head office is based in the heart of the Garden Route, with a nationwide network of depots and contacts. Being an internet based company, SELFTOURS is always available at the click of a button and therefore attracting a clientele from every corner of the world.

We have further extended our tours to include outbound fly in packages to Victoria Falls, the wildlife of Kenya, the tropical Spice Island of Zanzibar, the Paradise Island of Mauritius, and the Mystical Island of Madagascar, and soon to be launched the Gorillas of Rwanda - all ex South Africa and tailor-made to meet personal requirements.

With experienced and dedicated travel professionals staffing our offices, you are assured of a personal service, every step of the way.

With over 3 200 locations in more than 120 countries, Budget is one of the top international car rental companies and SELFTOURS is proud to consistently be one of their top achievers for the high volume of car rentals generated since 2000.


South Africa is not only an over whelming picturesque country, but has everything the world has to offer and more, with an invigorating mix of cultures, scenery and wildlife.  Hence being well know as the Rainbow Nation.

With its eclectic mix of First and Third Worlds, South Africa has a vast network of well sign-posted routes, airports and railway systems and yet there are places off the beaten track, still waiting to be explored and where the landscape has remained untouched.

Truly a world in one country…

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TOP SOUTH AFRICAN TOURIST DESTINATIONS

CAPE TOWN

Table Mountain South Africa

Cape Town, the country's oldest and arguably most attractive city, nestles elegantly beneath the majestic heights of Table Mountain, the flat-topped massif that served as an unmistakable landmark and symbol of refuge for generations of seafarers.

Today, the metropolis ranks as one of the southern hemisphere's premier tourist destinations, known for the beauty of its surrounds, its historic buildings, its lively waterfront and harbour, its theatres, restaurants and nightspots, and for the inviting wine routes of a hinterland that has it's own myriad charms.

Discover the delights of Cape Town - cable car and hiking trails up Table Mountain - boat trips around the harbour and to Robben Island.

THE GARDEN ROUTE

Knysna Lagoon South Africa

From the time of its first discovery by man this coastal terrace has delighted and stunned visitors with its magnificent lush green vegetation all year round and for visitors to the country it is one of the highlights of a complete tour.

Any time of the year is good for visiting the area, depending if you enjoy a peaceful retreat during the winter months or a bustling holiday destination during the summer.

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THE KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Kruger National park lions & wildlife

Within the vast Lowveld landscape lies the crown jewel of Africa, the Kruger National Park. Well known for its diversity of habitat and wildlife, Kruger offers visitors an excellent opportunity to experience close encounters with elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard in a natural unfenced environment. Wild dog, cheetah, zebra, giraffe and a variety of other species are also indigenous to the park.

Become an adventurer and discover the heart of Southern Africa on the back of Africa’s friendly giants. It’s an experience that no brochure could ever do any justice.

ZULULAND

Kruger Park and the zulu nation

Feel the pulse of yesteryear as you journey to the secluded lodge at sunset. After sundowners and dinner, sit spellbound round the fire as Zulu legends unfold and the rhythmic drumbeat of Africa fills the night. Soak in your very own steaming rock bath and drift off to sleep in stone-walled rooms to the tranquil sounds of Zululand.

Journey with us in the footsteps of early pioneers, visit old ruins that speak from the past and be part of the vibrant culture that lives to this day. All this, tucked away in an indigenous setting of aloes and mimosa trees with spectacular views of the surrounding hills. Let the drumbeat draw you into the pulse of Africa….


BATTLEFIELDS

Today, the Natal Battlefields Route takes visitors through this land of wagon laagers, of Zulu cultural villages, of British blockhouses, where the rolling grasslands of the area stir the imagination as a silent counterpoint to the resonating din of battle.

Each town along the route has its own unique story to tell, as does each stretch of land, each river, each hillock, each memorial site. Few who visit the area leave without feeling at once mournful for lost innocence, sober at the wastes of war and enriched by a trip through the tangible inevitability of time.

SUN CITY

Sun City and the Kruger wildlife

On what was once an unappealing patch of rocky terrain rises one man’s fantasy, an elegant African Palace and entertainment centre. Each year, some two million people visit what is arguably one of the world’s most exciting inland resorts, the unique ‘African Legend’ development of Sun City and The Palace of the Lost City.

Sun City houses dazzling gambling halls, the extravaganza theatre, shops, restaurants, nightspots, bars, cinemas and much more, all overlooking the 18-hole Gary Player Golf Course.

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TOP AFRICAN TOURIST DESTINATIONS

VICTORIA FALLS

Mosi-oa-Tunya - 'The Smoke that Thunders' on the Zambezi River between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Here the river is more than 1.6 km wide (1 mile) and plunges about 108m (354 feet) into the gorge below. The first European to discover the falls was the Scottish missionary David Livingston in 1855 who was so inspired by what he saw that he called them after his Queen: Queen Victoria. His gigantic statue still stands above Devils Cataract to this day.

‘Flight of the Angels’ Helicopter trips over the Falls are strongly recommended for the ultimate spectacular view. Afterwards a sundowner cruise game-spotting along the mighty Zambezi. The evening is a traditional African night with open-air meals cooked on open fires with traditional dancers. Join in the fun and learn to play the African double ended drum.
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Mountain Gorilla Trekking in Rwanda or Uganda

An hour spent with a Mountain Gorilla family is a very tranquil & relaxing form of therapy, allowing you to realise how simple life really can be.  The DNA of gorillas is extremely similar to that of a human, between 95 and 99% depending on what is counted, and they are the next closest living relatives to humans after the two chimpanzee speciesThey inhabit the forests of central Africa and are divided into two species and either four or five subspecies.  The late Dian Fossey devoted 18 years of her life to both study and protect our largest primates - read more about her here

Mountain Gorillas are on the endangered species list.  There are perhaps only 750 left in the world.  They have been hunted for Witch Doctor medicines and past wars have not helped.  Entire Gorilla families where murdered just to capture two babies to export to a zoo where they died. 
Mountain Gorillas do not live well in captivity
more info


Rwanda Air operates direct flight from Johannesburg International to Kigali. Flight time approx 4 hours.

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KENYA & EAST AFRICAN SAFARIS

The land where safaris were born. ‘Safari’ is a Swahili word meaning ‘journey’

Winston Churchill once called Uganda the Pearl of Africa.
President Teddy Roosevelt had a steel park bench bolted onto the front of a Kenya Railways locomotive and went wild game hunting in 1910 which lasted for one year.

On your wildlife safari you can choose between modern African safari game lodges or get even closer to the African wildlife in original mobile tented safari camps, with a touch of modern luxury. Imagine spotting wild game all day then relaxing and enjoying dinner under the African stars on the open plains facing Mt Kilimanjaro.

Daily flights from Johannesburg International. Flight time 4 hours.

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MYSTICAL MADAGASCAR

Madagascar island, the world's 4th largest island, measuring 1571 km in length and 571 km across. Because of its isolation most of its mammals, half its birds, and most of its plants exist nowhere else in the world.

The only place in the world where you can see lemurs dancing with their babies in the wild. Madagascar also has its share of beautiful beaches and magnificent untouched coral reefs enticing scuba divers and snorkellers into the warm Indian Ocean.

Twice-weekly flights, Thursdays and Saturdays on Air Madagascar departing from Johannesburg. Flight time 3 hours.
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THE PARADISE ISLAND OF MAURITIUS

The island of Mauritius is a tropical island with miles of palm-lined white beach. Your Mauritius holiday will be a memorable vacation in the sun with activities ranging from short yacht cruises to nearby islands, to parasailing high above the ocean, to deep sea big game fishing, Submarine tours, golf or just catching up on that sun tan on the beach.

The tropical paradise where you come to be spoilt and pampered. Enjoy different and new island experiences.
Daily flights from Johannesburg International. Flight time 4 hours
Take a day cruise on an ocean going yacht, enjoy sight seeing, snorkelling, eat freshly BBQ marlin steaks, all to the beat of Tropical Island music.
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THE SPICE ISLAND OF ZANZIBAR

Zanzibar tropical paradise island vacations are all about warm sun drenched white beaches, palm trees whistling in the breeze, and crystal clear tropical waters with colourful coral reefs teaming with a kaleidoscope of tropical fish waiting for you to snorkel or scuba dive with them.

Explore Zanzibar with its fascinating history of the sultans and the slave trade adding just that little bit more to your island experience. Sunset Dhow cruises await you and accommodation has large beds fit for a Sultan.

Daily flights from Johannesburg International. Flight time 4 hours.
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MILEAGE CHART OF SOUTH AFRICA
Approximate distances between main tourist destinations in South Africa
To convert to miles divide by 1.6

CONTACT DETAILS & INFORMATION
What to bring:
Casual wear. Comfortable walking shoes, slacks, shorts & ‘T’ Shirts. Something warm for the evening; tracksuits are ideal. Smart casual is required at most restaurants.

For your comfort:
Insect repellent is recommended, and if travelling in the north eastern areas, eg. Kruger Park, or, Zanzibar, Madagascar, Uganda, or Rwanda, malaria medication is recommended

Please visit our comprehensive website covering South Africa, East Africa, Victoria Falls,  Zanzibar, Madagascar & Mauritius and the Gorillas of Rwanda & Uganda at:
www.selftours.co.za

Phone number :

  044 384 1912

Fax number :

  044 384 0914

SKYPE phone name :

  selftourscc
Enquiries :   enq@selftours.co.za

Website :

  http://www.selftours.co.za/

This could be the beginning of the best holiday you have ever enjoyed.
WHY?
Because you are going to have a hand in designing it with our assistance

SELFTOURS - Designers of personalise self drive or guided group coach tours. Designed with just your holiday requirements in mind

Your Tour, Your Time