I’m just finishing up my trip in South Africa which I have really enjoyed. For me the highlights have been beautiful summer weather in January and animal viewing.
I flew Turkish Airlines Seattle to Istanbul. In this particular airplane, if you purchase extra legroom economy you end up with a premium economy seat with no extra perks. Then it was Turkish Airlines Istanbul to Cape Town. Flying time was 22 hours total. If you realize I traveled across three continents and the Atlantic that time is not unreasonable. I didn’t take advantage of their program, but I could have broken up the two flights with Turkish Airlines free layover program. Best of all, the price was very reasonable, $1200 roundtrip Seattle to Cape Town.
I arrived in Cape Town and just rested the first afternoon/evening. Hotel prices are very reasonable with nice hotels running $80-$120 a night.
Table Mountain was my goal the next morning. Uber rides are plentiful and inexpensive. $5 Uber and $23 roundtrip cable car ride and I was at the top with the most amazing views in every direction. Table Mountain is actually a National Park and many trails of varying difficulty are available as well as a gift shop restaurant.
I boarded my home for the next 12 nights, the Azamara Quest, as it began its South African Intensive Voyage. My excursions included 3 Safari days and a Penguin/dolphin sightseeing cruise. We had enrichment speakers on board for history, culture, and animals/ecosystem. We also experienced several cultural immersion events which included traditional singers/dancers. I totally enjoyed my cruise on this small ship (591 passengers) and we did not encounter a lot of other cruise ships on our journey.
In Summary, South Africa is a great destination. Airfare to Africa is often not more expensive then some flights to Europe. Safari opportunities abound and it is quite thrilling have experiences such as driving through the bush, turn and find a herd of elephants walking to a watering hole.
The weather was usually in the 70-80 degree range.