South Africa malaria-free family safari holiday

Gauteng is South Africa’s smallest province but is home to its largest city, Johannesburg, and to Pretoria, one of the Rainbow Nation’s three capital cities.

Johannesburg holidays are often overlooked for a city stay in favour of cosmopolitan, coastal Cape Town.

However, with several fascinating historical museums as well as the endlessly surprising Soweto township, perhaps it’s time to look afresh at Johannesburg holidays.

In the search for a South Africa luxury safari, Madikwe Game Reserve safaris have long played second fiddle to those in the better-known Kruger National Park.

However, a South Africa family holiday to Madikwe reliably offers Africa’s finest non-malarial, Big Five game viewing experience from the unbridled comfort of some its most exquisite lodges.

Ease of access combined with a feeling of true African wilderness, thanks to its situation on the edge of the Kalahari Desert, are just two of the reasons why you should consider Madikwe Game Reserve for your next family safari holiday.

Blessed with a Mediterranean climate and a dramatic, picture postcard situation, Cape Town rivals the world’s most celebrated coastal cityscapes.

South Africa’s ‘Mother City’ makes full use of its abundant natural riches to offer a host of activities that will have you wishing you’d stayed for another night.

A vibrant, multi-cultural society has emerged from a chequered colonial past. This is nowhere more evident than in the melting pot of international cuisines for which Cape Town is internationally renowned.

The Residence Johannesburg is a delightful boutique hotel with just 17 rooms and suites, located in the heart of South Africa’s economic capital.

Designed in a grand old style, the hotel offers a luxurious place to lay your head after a long flight, or a safari.

All rooms are equipped with outdoor showers, Nespresso machines, private balconies or courtyards, and most have their own fireplace – perfect for those chilly Johannesburg mornings and evenings in July and August. The suites are all set up to accommodate two adults and two children, so this is a great choice for families.

There are three swimming pools to choose from, one of which is heated, and there’s a tennis court and gym for those looking to burn some calories.

Morukuru Owner’s House is a delightful private safari abode, built under an ancient Morukuru tree, on the bank of the Marico river.

One of three private residences that make up the Morukuru Family portfolio; the owner’s house is an exclusive-use, two-bedroom house in a private concession on the Madikwe Game Reserve.

Madikwe is a wonderful place to enjoy a malaria-free safari, whilst on a South Africa family holiday. The friendly and acommodating team at Morukuru Owner’s House will ensure every need is taken care of. It’s a private house with its own safari vehicle, so you can tailor the experience exactly how you wish.

Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, is one of the most iconic hotels on the African continent.

An established favourite of South Africa family holidays, this grand old hotel has been welcoming happy guests through its gates for over 100 years, and has played host to many notable names; including John Lennon, Leonard di Caprio and even Sir Winston Churchill.

Accommodation is provided in a selection of 198 rooms and suites, all of which have been individually designed and are spread across seven different wings. Family suites and interconnecting rooms are light and spacious, providing a luxurious base to lay the head after a long journey or a day of exploring the Cape.

Johannesburg holidays will most likely incorporate a visit to two key sites.

The Apartheid Museum offers an informative insight into South Africa’s history of racial segregation. It is predominantly a sobering, educational experience, but one that manages to retain an uplifting message.

Soweto township is synonymous with the historical struggle of black South Africans against apartheid. While poverty is still evident in much of the town, in modern Soweto you will experience a vibrant melting pot of cultures and infectious positivity.

Madikwe reliably offers Africa’s finest non-malarial, Big Five game viewing experience from the unbridled comfort of some its most exquisite lodges.

You’ll have the chance to find lion, leopard, elephant and rhino rubbing shoulders with healthy populations of wild dog as well as desert specialists such as aardvark, porcupine, and the critically endangered pangolin.

Cape Town holidays offer stunning hotels, outdoor adventure, local wildlife and fascinating history to name but a few. The city is also blessed with exceptional museums and galleries, and a bouncing social scene.

Boat trips out to Robben Island, the cable car to the top of Table Mountain and exploring the V&A waterfront are all firm family favourites.