Susan Desmarais

South Africa is a destination that everyone should visit at least once in their life. I have been there several times, and on each occasion, I experienced something new. Cape Town is a beautiful city, and those looking for variety on their first trip to Africa should start there, then see Johannesburg, whose history is fascinating. There is, however, so much more to South Africa than its cities.

I have gone on safari twice and one of my favorite camps was Mala Mala Game Reserve. I was able to get so close to the animals that leopards walked right past the wheel of the Jeep that I sat in. I also went to the Victoria Falls River Lodge, a luxury tented camp that I book my clients at whenever possible. It is beautiful, and the sensation of waking up to the sound of hippos in the river outside my door is something I have never forgotten.

One thing that has changed for the better about traveling to South Africa is that it is not necessary to get multiple vaccinations. Malaria pills are still a must and I would recommend getting the yellow fever vaccine to anyone traveling in the vicinity of Zambia. Otherwise, South Africa is the perfect entry point for westerners who are interested in safely experiencing all that this rich continent has to offer.