South Africa Continues to attract tourists who love luxury accommodations, great food, magnificent wildlife and fabulous golfing.
Since leaving South Africa many moons ago, I have returned at least 20 times, if not more. It is one of the most beautiful countries, inhabited by wonderful people, living in the most spectacular landscape.
Getting to South Africa from the United States, Canada, or Mexico, whether to Johannesburg or Cape Town, is a long flight from the West Coast (24 hours actual flying) and from Atlanta (17+ hours).The most highly recommended air carriers are Qatar Airways from LAX, Delta, or Emirates Air which is also marvelous, but flying time and routing are not as favorable. Avoiding British Airways via London to South Africa will make your journey so much less stressful.
I highly recommend the service on Qatar’s Business Class/First Class, as it is beyond amazing. The seats, with their oversized personal TVs and sleeping pods, are so enjoyable. On-call food service is over the top – at any time, you can order any item from the menu, and the food is delicious!
To really enjoy your visit, always take the time to learn a few words of the local language such as Afrikaans and Fanagalo. Fanagalo is a pidgin (simplified language) based primarily on Zulu, with English and a small Afrikaans input.
The rate of exchange for the South African Rand at the time of writing is 18.5 Rands to every $1.00 – now is the time to visit South Africa and reap the benefits of the US dollar.
This is Africa, so everybody wants to see wild animals and wants to go on a safari, especially to see the “Big Five” (lion, leopard, rhinoceros of both black and white species, elephant and Cape buffalo). One of the very best Game reserves I have visited is the 5-Star Shamwari Game Reserve.
Nestled in the heart of South Africa, the journey between Shamwari Game Reserve, Tintswalo Atlantic, and Haute Cabrière Winery offers a perfect blend of luxury, nature, and culture. Begin with a safari at Shamwari, an award-winning game reserve known for its commitment to conservation and immersive wildlife experiences. Here, you can observe the Big Five in their natural habitat, unwind in world-class accommodations, and enjoy guided tours that connect you to the heart of African wilderness.
Then, continue your journey to the Cape Winelands to experience Haute Cabrière, a winery founded in 1694 and famed for its exceptional wines and French-inspired cuisine. I am rather biased as I am a part owner of Haute Cabriere. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Franschoek, Haute Cabrière invites you to taste exquisite wines, from the classic Pierre Jourdan Brut to their renowned Chardonnay Pinot Noir, each crafted with passion and expertise.
A tour of the winery, combined with a meal with accompanying wines, at the terrace overlooking the vineyard, is all part of this unique South African experience,
Either before or after, plan on spending one to two days at Tintswalo Atlantic and enjoy one of South Africa’s finest 5-star accommodations.
Shamwari, the first private game reserve in the Eastern Cape, is now the largest, spanning 250 square kilometers (96 square miles). It offers world-class, malaria-free game viewing with a strong focus on conservation.
Shamwari offers three separate and distinct accommodations, all of which are 5 star plus. The Long Lee Manor, Eagles Crag Safari Lodge and Riverdene Family Lodge.
All rates are inclusive of all meals, game drives, guided walks, selected local beverages, tea and coffee, water, laundry, tourism levy and 15% Vat. Premium brand beverages, French Champagne, gift boutique purchases and spa treatments would be for guests’ own account and not included.
Seasonal rates are applicable, so I highly recommend contacting each lodge’s reservation department for current prices and specials. During season, average rates are about $2,000 per day per person. Off-season $1500 per day per person.
Our visit to Shamwari Private Game Reserve in South Africa was truly extraordinary, but what really made the trip remarkably wonderful was having our sons with us. Their thoughts and excitement added a new layer of joy to every experience we shared.
One of their most thrilling highlights was a guided bush walk with armed rangers, where they came face-to-face with a majestic male lion. “Standing so close that the lion could have reached us in seconds if it had chosen to, we both felt an overwhelming mix of awe and exhilaration”. Their sharing of that heart-pounding moment with our sons made it even more special, as we all marveled together at the raw, untamed beauty of nature.
We also toured Shamwari’s renowned Wildlife Rehab Center and their Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries, established in 1992, where injured and orphaned animals are lovingly cared for, rewilded, and returned to their natural habitats. In partnership with actress, author and wildlife campaigner, Virginia McKenna’s Born Free Foundation, Shamwari Private Game Reserve designed the Animal Rescue and Education Centers to incorporate the sanctuary and educational facility. Their goal is to create awareness of the horrific way in which wildlife is exploited in captivity around the world. The centers, the Julie Ward Center (enclosures for big cats), and the Jean Byrd Center (provides educational facilities for schools, whilst also providing further enclosures for more rescued big cats), aim to draw attention to the plight of wild big cats, confined in impoverished, captive environments throughout the world. Shamwari also has their Education Program which is an active program for schools and colleges with a particular aim to support local disadvantaged communities with the focus on conservation through education.
Witnessing this dedication to conservation deepened our appreciation for the reserve’s mission, and seeing it through my sons’ eyes added a heartfelt perspective to the experience.
The luxurious side of Shamwari was equally unforgettable. Our guide, Raymond Simmons, who was not only incredibly knowledgeable about the flora and fauna but also deeply passionate about conservation, made the entire trip even more enriching. His stories, insights, and enthusiasm brought the reserve to life in a way that we will always remember. Every moment at Shamwari, from the heart-pounding wildlife encounters to the tranquil evenings under the stars, felt like a once-in-a-lifetime experience. Every meal was a 5-star culinary masterpiece, blending local flavors with impeccable presentation, and the service throughout our stay was flawless. The game drives were like stepping into a wildlife documentary—up-close encounters with rhinos, lions, cheetahs, elephants, hippos, giraffes, and even the rare sighting of a lynx made every drive unforgettable.
By the way, Netflix has a series on Shamwari – Shamwari Untamed. Fascinating!
Long Lee Manor, established in 1910, embodies colonial grandeur and timeless charm. The Manor’s elegant pink exterior welcomes guests into an interior rich with original detailing, open fireplaces, and classic dark wood furnishings, transporting you to an era of refined sophistication.
When you’re not exploring the safari, you can unwind by one of the two pristine pools or enjoy the impeccably manicured lawns, perfect for an afternoon of leisure. In the evening, dining becomes an exquisite affair, echoing Michelin quality.
Guests are treated to artfully crafted, multi-course meals featuring locally sourced, seasonal ingredients, prepared by chefs who blend traditional flavors with innovative techniques. Dinner may be served in the beautifully restored main dining room, where candlelight dances on polished wood and fine table settings, or you might dine under the stars beside a roaring fire in the barn annex, enjoying dishes meticulously prepared to enhance each flavor and leaving a lasting impression on your palate.
What I can definitely tell you is that the cuisine is categorically and absolutely the best I have ever indulged ANYWHERE in any game reserve!
The staff at Long Lee are outstanding, friendly and go the extra mile, always with a smile on their faces.
Eagles Crag Lodge is a serene retreat of minimalist luxury, set in a stunningly secluded location. Nestled within a canyon that winds through the mountain ranges of Shamwari Reserve, the lodge lies along natural animal pathways, offering guests thrillingly close encounters with wildlife as they move between watersheds.
Eagles Crag blends exclusive luxury with the unprecedented perfection that nature offers. To ensure an unforgettable experience, the lodge’s upper deck with aerial viewing pods, provide panoramic views of the surrounding rock faces where eagles soar. The nine suites blend sophisticated interiors with the natural surroundings.
Designed with both comfort and style, the main lodge and suites feature sleek, modern furnishings and high-quality materials. The suites are inspired by traditional rondavels, with a contemporary twist—circular in shape, capped with thatched roofs, and centered on elegant four-poster beds. One wall showcases striking black marble and chrome sinks, while two sides of the suite feature floor-to-ceiling glass, revealing uninterrupted views of your private deck, plunge pool, and the dense forest that envelops the lodge.
Riverdene Family Lodge, the newly renovated lodge provides an ideal setting for families to bond and watch majestic wildlife wander nearby. Children can embark on their own adventures with the engaging Kids on Safari program.
This lodge offers a warm, welcoming atmosphere that feels like home for families, where guests quickly become friends. Here, under the vast African sky, you’ll enjoy breathtaking sunsets, creating cherished memories with your loved ones that will last a lifetime.
At any of the Shamwari lodges you will enjoy great food, accommodations, superb service and a lifetime of memories.
Tintswalo Atlantic – the Hidden Gem of Cape Town
There are many beautiful beach hotels throughout the world. The 5-star luxury Tintswalo Atlantic has to be one of the top ten boutique hotels anywhere! What an amazing and very special romantic hideaway. And it is only twenty minutes from downtown Cape Town. My wife and I and our two sons, celebrated our 54th wedding anniversary at Tintswalo Atlantic.
The hotel boasts an exclusive and unique shoreline location within the protected Table Mountain National Park, one of South Africa’s eight World Heritage Sites, situated just outside of Hout Bay, on the scenic Chapman’s Peak drive. The pebbled beach directly in front is secluded and sheltered from winds. There is excellent access to the natural beauty found along the mountainside’s winding hiking trails, and a beautiful pool open during warm weather for more breathtaking views.
This gorgeous, dramatic and romantic destination needs to be on your Bucket List! When we sent some photos to a friend, she replied “you didn’t say you were travelling to heaven”. And every vista is truly “heavenly”.
Superlatives cannot do the hotel justice. From its location, the structure, the access, the rooms, the service, the food and the staff, attention to details are the hallmarks of Tintswalo Atlantic. Every member of the staff is so amazingly kind, attentive, professional and genuinely pleasant.
Your first thrill is the arrival. From the entrance – the drive down to the hotel (at the base of Chapman’s Peak) – from there you realize you are going somewhere extraordinary. You are greeted with champagne and smiling faces.
Tintswalo Atlantic has converted its 2-bedroom suite into two separate inter-leading suites that have been re-branded as Luxury Mountain Suites. Situated amongst the fynbos, both suites are ocean-facing in an elevated position set back from the water’s edge.
The two Luxury Mountain Suites, like the eight Luxury Island Suites, come with wood-burning fireplaces and private balconies, as well as luxurious bathrooms with separate showers, double vanities and free-standing bathtubs with mesmerizing sea views.
The Elba Luxury Mountain Suite includes a separate private lounge with another fireplace and a spacious deck. It is a popular option for bridal parties, and when booked together with the inter-leading Corsica Luxury Mountain Suite, provide spacious, private accommodation for four guests travelling together. The two suites also offer the option of adding an extra bed per suite for children under the age of 16 sharing with their parents.
Tintswalo Atlantic rates include accommodation, breakfast, sunset canapés, cocktail of the day, Wi-Fi and a welcome bottle of wine per room, starting from R9940 per room per night (Corsica Luxury Mountain Suite) and from R10490 per room per night (Elba Luxury Mountain Suites and Luxury Island Suites).
All the suites are uniquely themed after different islands and feature chandeliers, warm décor, and wooden floors. All come with sitting areas, satellite TV, fireplaces and balconies. Airy bathrooms offer free-standing tubs with water views.
Having all your meals at the lodge, provided by the renowned Chef’s Warehouse, is simply amazing with the sea lapping against the rocks, making a wonderful backdrop. The menu choices available for breakfast, lunch and dinner are crafted from the freshest, locally sourced, sustainable ingredients. The chefs produce exquisite haute cuisine. You really do not want, or need, to leave the hotel. Cuban cigars are available, as is a lovely glass of sherry, to enjoy on your balcony.
Don’t forget to ask for your personal wishing rock at reception before leaving. You do really want to wish to come back regularly when you toss the rock over your left shoulder into the ocean.
Melissa and Ryno, the GMs are superb hosts who make Tintswalo even more fabulous.
Rates will vary depending on the season. Expect to pay somewhere between $400 and $700 per couple, per night, for one of the suites. Guests who join you for dinner will be in the $50-$60 per person range without wine.
If you are not able to stay overnight, at least try and make a reservation for breakfast, lunch, or early dinner – you will not be disappointed! Sunrise and sunset like you’ve never, ever seen them before.
Luxury Private Residences
If you are a seasoned luxury traveler who prefers superb private residences such as VRBO or Airbnb, there is a company called Icon Villas run by Theresa Botha (www.iconvillas.com) that offer fantastic homes that literally take your breath away. Specifically La Soledad that is probably one of the 5 top homes in South Africa.
Here are the links and prices:
Phezulu between $2000 and $2600 per night
La Soledad between $3100 and $4100 per night
Sensual between $2200 and $3200 per night
Villa Nouveau between $1250 and $2200 per night
North between $2000 and $3200 per night
As always, every time my South African visit comes to an end, I leave with more than just photographs and souvenirs; I carry the vibrant spirit of the Rainbow Nation. From the awe-inspiring landscapes of Table Mountain and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, to the warmth of its people and the rich tapestry of cultures, South Africa is a destination that touches the soul and lingers in the heart. Whether it’s savoring the exquisite flavors of Cape Winelands or standing in silent reverence at Robben Island, this country offers experiences that are both humbling and transformative. South Africa isn’t just a place to visit—it’s a place that leaves you changed, inspired, and yearning to return.
Barry Lotz, J.D., Ph.D. is the director of the Professional Golf Teachers Association of America. Visit www.facebook.com/PGTAA to see all the latest mental strategies, travel, and equipment reviews. Currently, he also works with between 10 to 12 PGA TOUR players on the mental side of golf.
He is a member of the Golf Writers Association of America and serves both as a consultant and mediator to the golf industry. He is also the author of numerous books, including “333 Best Web Sites for Golfers” and his previous book, “How to Build Business Relationships through Golf,” which is still on the Top Ten Golf Business Book’s bestseller list. His current book, “The Right Mind for Golf,” is now in its 12th reprint and is available on Amazon and at the Torrey Pines Golf Course. Just released in 2024 are his new books, “The Right Mind for Putting,” and “The Right Approach to Golf” Both are now available at https://www.pgtaa.com/product-category/books-and-apparell/
