Situated at the foot of Table Mountain, the incredible Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a must visit whilst in Cape Town. Claimed to be one of the world’s most scenic botanical gardens, it places importance on preserving the indigenous plants of South Africa. Within the gardens, you’ll find a conservatory, amongst other extraordinary sights.

Alternatively, you could head to the Two Oceans Aquarium. Home to 8,000 marine animals, it’s located on the scenic V&A Waterfront. Popular with families, whilst at the aquarium, you’ll see the likes of great white sharks, clownfish, rays and more.

Getting its name from the granite boulders that surround it, Boulders Beach is located on the Cape Peninsula in South Africa. Not only is this beach incredibly scenic, but it’s a popular place to visit due to the thriving colony of African penguins that call the beach their home.

Mali boasts a fascinating, and ancient, tradition of puppetry; consisting primarily of decorated masks, sticks, strings, and larger wearable puppets, Mali puppetry is used in a variety of contexts – from traditional celebrations and ceremonies to education and entertainment. Often utilised alongside traditional music and dance, the Mali puppetry you’ll see in Gold Restaurant promises to be enchanting.

A stunning immersive African experience, where you’ll have the chance to enjoy a 14-course set menu featuring traditional African dishes and authentic African entertainment, Gold Restaurant is one of the most exceptional spots for an evening meal in Cape Town, South Africa. Presenting you with an evening of African culture and celebration, this will be one dinner you’re not going to forget anytime soon.

The capital city of South Africa, and the second-largest city by population to Johannesburg, Cape Town is a modern metropolis with a fascinating array of architecture, landmarks, cultural activities, and sightseeing opportunities. From the vibrant Kirstenbosch Garden and the interesting Castle of Good Hope to staggering Table Mountain and the serene Camps Bay Beach, everyone will find something to look forward to when visiting Cape Town.

Boulders Bay is one of the best places in the world to see African penguins in the wild, and a visit to the Boulders Penguin Colony is a must for anyone exploring Cape Town in South Africa. Reportedly originally settling in this area in 1982, the dwindling population of African penguins can be found on a stretch of three pristine beaches in Simon’s Town, which is within Cape Town; while here, you can observe these remarkable birds from specially-built boardwalk walkways, something that has been introduced to continue protecting the colony from human influence. Known for their dramatic black and white plumage, and for having small pink glands above their eyes, these unique penguins are best-spotted during the Summer months. Although, you’ll still spy a few of them throughout the year, should you visit at another time.

Stretching from Hout Bay to Noordhoek, along the Atlantic coastline, Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most stunning scenic drives in the world; constructed during the First World War, this roadway runs for around 9km and features 114 twists and turns. While only around half an hour, this must-experience drive is truly unforgettable – the breathtaking views of the coastline here are unlike anything else in the world.

Jutting out dramatically into the South Atlantic Ocean, the Cape of Good Hope is a breathtakingly beautiful natural landmark boasting incredible coastline views, sensational wildlife spotting opportunities, and an interesting history worth taking the time to learn more about – and, it’s a peninsula that’s commonly mistaken for being the southernmost point in Africa, but that’s actually Cape Agulhas, which is about 150 km eastwards. When it was first discovered by Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias in 1488, this rocky headland was known as the Cape of Storms, but John II of Portugal renamed it the Cape of Good Hope in an effort to reflect the incredible optimism borne out of having an open sea route to India and the East. When you’re here, you’ll have the chance to see everything from ostrich and chacma baboons to African penguins and more; so, it’s definitely worth bringing a pair of binoculars when visiting.

Also known as the Bo-Kaap, Cape Town’s Malay Quarters are a colourful neighbourhood with an important history. Formerly a racially segregated area, and the historical heart of the Cape Malay culture in Cape Town, this area of Cape Town boasts the largest concentration of pre-1850 architecture in South Africa, with some of the oldest-surviving residential structures still being used to this day.

Once on the coastline, but now inland following land reclamation around the Table Bay area, the Castle of Good Hope is a remarkable 17th century bastion fort regarded as one of the best-preserved examples of a Dutch East India Company fortification in the world. Constructed in a distinct pentagonal shape, the outline of this castle’s walls was once used on South African Defence Force flags and rank insignia, further highlighting its importance as a national landmark.

A stunning oval-shaped island in Table Bay, which is just north of Cape Town, Robben Island boasts a remarkable – albeit troubled – history; fortified as a prison island throughout the mid-17th century, it’s perhaps most known in recent history as where political activist Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years during South Africa’s postwar apartheid state. Beyond this, though, and the fascinating living history museum here, Robben Island is a fantastic place to spot wildlife. When visiting, you’ll have the chance to spot African penguins, several buck species, Cape fur seals, and more.

Found in the heart of Franschhoek, the Huguenot Monument is an impressive landmark dedicated to the cultural influences of the Huguenot refugees who immigrated into the Cape Colony throughout the 17th and 18th centuries. Primarily fleeing the religious persecution of Roman Catholic France, this monument was completed in 1945 and features three arches – which symbolise the Holy Trinity – and a female figure – which symbolises religious freedom.

A winding roadway that connects Stellenbosch with Pniel and Franschhoek, the Helshoogte Mountain Pass is one of the most stunning ways to traverse this mountainous region. The original Helshoogte Pass is the oldest in South Africa, dating back to the late 17th century, and was important to the Huguenot population in Franschhoek. For many years, it was known for being a dangerous route, particularly in the dark; however, now that it isn’t the main route to Franschhoek, it’s actually one of the most scenic cycling routes in the region.

A charming town just east of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek is famed for many things – and regarded as one of the best places to visit in the world, even if just for a short time. Home to the impressive Huguenot Monument, and surrounded by vibrant rolling vineyard-covered hills, it’s easy to appreciate that this is one of the oldest towns in South Africa when you arrive. Interestingly, it was once known as Oliphants Hoek, due to the impressive number of elephants roaming the valley around the settlement; though, this was changed when the French Huguenot refugees populated the region in the late 17th century.

With minimal light pollution, the chance to stargaze when staying in Sanbona Wildlife Reserve can’t be passed up. When the sun sets, the sky lights up with an incomparable amount of stars and it’s all-too-easy to spend hours marvelling at the great cosmos above you.

When you’re not lounging, enjoying some excellent cuisine, or venturing off on a game drive, you’ll find yourself with the chance to head off on a guided nature walk. Whilst on foot, these are an excellent opportunity to get closer to the flora and fauna around your accommodation – something that will give you a deeper appreciation of the environment around you. Littered with fascinating botanical life, and intriguing rock art, the animals in Sanbona Wildlife Reserve aren’t the only thing worth looking at.

If you’re looking for the chance to pamper yourself, you’re in luck; Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is home to a stunning spa that boasts a wide range of treatments. When you’re not wildlife spotting on a game drive, enjoying some delicious South African cuisine, or lounging in the sunshine, you can indulge in world-class treatment and holistic modalities that rejuvenate, refresh, balance, and energise your being – all while enjoying excellent views of the stunning landscape surrounding you.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is a respected world leader in cheetah conservation, and you’ll find a population of Southeast African cheetahs in the Karoo biome here. Among the fastest land mammals alive today, these sleek big cats are fascinating to watch in the wild. Slender and spotted, they hunt with deadly precision and a jaw-dropping ferocity you won’t want to miss on your game drive.

Covered head to toe – which is a long way – with dark, rounded splotches, the South African Giraffe is certainly the tallest animal you’ll have the chance of observing when exploring Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Often found feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruits, you shouldn’t have too much trouble spotting the slender necks of these remarkable animals during your game drive.

Only recently reintroduced into the Karoo biome within Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, which was identified as the ideal environment for this specific sub-species of rhinoceros, the desert black rhino has adapted to semi-desert landscapes, though find themselves very particular when it comes to their food. Thankfully, it was established that this nature reserve was an excellent match for their needs, and now you’ll find a small population roaming the stunning landscapes here.

When you take the time to picture a lion in your mind, chances are you’re thinking of a South African lion – without even knowing it! Boasting stunning brown manes, rounded ears, and broad features, these lions are truly magnificent. Often seen preferring short grasses and areas near water, where their prey is often found, you’ll have the chance to observe these incredible mammals in their natural habitat when exploring Sanbona Wildlife Reserve.

The most common species of zebra found in South Africa, plains zebra boast broader stripes than the larger Grevy’s zebra and smaller mountain zebra, making them a sight to behold at whatever distance. A highly social species that travel in groups, and prefer open grassland, you should have no trouble spotting some of these in Sanbona Wildlife Reserve.

One of South Africa’s ‘Big Five’, the African leopard is native to multiple sub-Saharan African countries and one animal you’ll have the opportunity to observe in Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Most active between sunset and sunrise, this is when they have most success hunting; often hiding in large trees to surprise their prey, you’ll want to keep your eyes up as well as down when watching these magnificent mammals.

Sanbona Wildlife Reserve is a respected world leader in cheetah conservation, and you’ll find a population of Southeast African cheetahs in the Karoo biome here. Among the fastest land mammals alive today, these sleek big cats are fascinating to watch in the wild. Slender and spotted, they hunt with deadly precision and a jaw-dropping ferocity you won’t want to miss on your game drive.

Covered head to toe – which is a long way – with dark, rounded splotches, the South African Giraffe is certainly the tallest animal you’ll have the chance of observing when exploring Sanbona Wildlife Reserve. Often found feeding on leaves, flowers, and fruits, you shouldn’t have too much trouble spotting the slender necks of these remarkable animals during your game drive.

Only recently reintroduced into the Karoo biome within Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, which was identified as the ideal environment for this specific sub-species of rhinoceros, the desert black rhino has adapted to semi-desert landscapes, though find themselves very particular when it comes to their food. Thankfully, it was established that this nature reserve was an excellent match for their needs, and now you’ll find a small population roaming the stunning landscapes here.

Situated at the foot of Table Mountain, the incredible Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is a must visit whilst in Cape Town. Claimed to be one of the world’s most scenic botanical gardens, it places importance on preserving the indigenous plants of South Africa. Within the gardens, you’ll find a conservatory, amongst other extraordinary sights.

Alternatively, you could head to the Two Oceans Aquarium. Home to 8,000 marine animals, it’s located on the scenic V&A Waterfront. Popular with families, whilst at the aquarium, you’ll see the likes of great white sharks, clownfish, rays and more.

Getting its name from the granite boulders that surround it, Boulders Beach is located on the Cape Peninsula in South Africa. Not only is this beach incredibly scenic, but it’s a popular place to visit due to the thriving colony of African penguins that call the beach their home.

Spend your day out on the water taking in the scenic surroundings on a kayak. The ultimate way to discover this beautiful destination, you'll have an unforgettable time.

Whether you spend your time wandering around these or book yourself on a 4x4 desert safari, you'll have a fantastic time. Perfect for capturing spectacular holiday photos, the sand dunes around Walvis Bay will make you feel as though you're in a different world!

An impressive mall with grocery shops, clothes shops and more, you can purchase all of your essentials here.

A prominent catholic cathedral in the city, Our Lady of Victories is a picturesque building that dates to 1936. Featuring beautiful architecture, it’s a must see when stopping off in the city during your cruise.

This fascinating art gallery displays art from a prominent Australian artist. Showcasing the colours and culture of Dakar, there are several exhibitions throughout the building, alongside an art cafe.

A huge renaissance monument that overlooks the town, the bronze statue stands at 52m tall. Designed by Pierre Goudiaby, a prominent Senegalese architect, it’s arguably the most prominent and visited attraction in Dakar.

With beautiful sand stretching for almost a mile, Playa de Las Teresitas is one of the best beaches in Tenerife. Lined with lush palm trees and picturesque mountains, visitors will find spaces to play volleyball or partake in yoga classes, as well as having sun loungers, showers and restaurants nearby.

A short drive from the city, Anaga Country Park is a beautifully preserved area of imposing mountains, deep valleys and numerous beaches. Here, you’ll find a plethora of native flora and fauna across the 35,800 acres of land.

Considered the second most popular carnival in the world, Carnival of Santa Cruz de Tenerife promises to be bigger, brighter and better every single year. With lively music, incredible costumes and nonstop dancing, witnessing this fantastic celebration is a must when in Tenerife.

Found in the city centre, Funchal Cathedral is an impressive Gothic-style monument, popular with locals and visitors alike. Take a look inside to learn about the fascinating history of the architecture, including the altarpiece ordered in 1510 to 1515.

For unrivalled panoramic views of Funchal Bay and the vast landscape, Monte Cable Car will take you to one of the best vantage points in Funchal. The fifteen-minute journey is a relaxing ascent towards Monte, with a souvenir photo at the end of the journey.

Occupying 70,000 square meters, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is home to a plethora of exotic flora and fauna from all corners of the world. You will get lost in the tranquil beauty of this garden, enjoying the space with black swans, colourful koi and vibrant peacocks.

Thanks to Madeira’s fertile soil, many tropical plants thrive here and Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro’s gardens are an excellent showcase of this. The most notable collection are the camellias, first planted by the Count of Carvalhal.

Dedicated to the tragedy of the Titanic, SeaCity Museum excellently portrays the aftermath through interactive exhibits. Featuring a 1:25 scale model of the ship, visitors learn about life onboard as well as the disaster that deeply affected Southampton in 1912.

Home to over 20 aircraft that were integral to the war effort, Solent Sky Museum is dedicated to the history of the RAF. Southampton itself played a large role in producing Supermarine Spitfires, which you’ll learn all about here.

If you’re looking to escape the busy port city, the New Forest National Park is just a short distance away with native New Forest ponies and lush heathland. Visitors can also catch events, activities and workshops throughout the year.

As Southampton’s most important historic building, this restored home holds over 800 years of history after having numerous owners. Now a museum, it showcases many artefacts once belonging to past residents of Southampton, as well as a Tudor House Café.

Since opening in 1939, this free art gallery has showcased exhibitions of sculptures, photography and traditional paintings. Thanks to an ever-changing programme of activities, you’ll find something here that the whole family will enjoy.