Wherever our travels take us, there are sights and activities that are simply not to be missed. Top experiences are renowned for a reason: they just can’t be found anywhere else! South Africa is a country of a dramatic past, amazing scenery and striking people and wildlife, and there are a handful of mentions that stand out from the rest. Scope out our list of five top things do in South Africa that are part of Global Basecamps’ itineraries, and also are activities you can check out yourself once your tour or safari come to an end.

We are excited to officially announce our Africa Shared Departures for 2019. These scheduled trips are ideal for those seeking an effortless and affordable option, without sacrificing quality. Space is limited for these exclusive small group safaris and Kenya and Tanzania are trending for 2019 so now is the time to book your safari for next year. Reserve your spot before it's gone!

Many of us choose to travel for many reasons: visiting famous ruins, climbing an iconic peak, seeing captivating wildlife … the list could go on and on. At the same time, many of us travelers come away with a much greater than anticipated appreciation for the local people we meet in the country we visit. It is often said that a smile is the universal language, and it can be a charming part of our trip to make our way through our trip relying on our guides and some nonverbal communication. However, it is both practical and polite to learn some of the language of the people whose homelands we will be visiting.

When it comes to clothing for travel, is one outfit as good as another? A pricier pair of pants just a gimmick, trodding the fashion treadmill? And what about something more specific, like a rain jacket? Does our old one we dig out of the back of the closet work just as well as one we might choose at an outdoor retailer after talking to a specialist there?