Quote: (10-15-2015 08:58 PM)Lacesoutray Wrote:
Sweet sheet. Bump this thread for my own personal reminder.
Headed to Cape Town next month.
Very psyched to see it.
All this 'danger danger danger' talk has me intrigued - first time in Africa and I've got zero frame of reference (though I've been told that RSA, especially Cape Town, isn't REALLY Africa).
People say that about Cape Town because that general region was the first area in SA (and probably Africa) to be colonised. So it has had the longest period of continual European habitation. Cape Town is very scenic and has a good vibe. If you are into anything involving the outdoors you can spend months there (in Summer) without getting bored.
But don't dismiss the safari experience. No real safari areas near Cape Town. There are some decent places just east of Port Elizabeth, past the end of the Garden Route, about 800 km from Cape Town. But they are not as good as Kruger. If you have the time/money etc. consider a diversion to Joburg (you don't need to even stay overnight) en route to the Kruger National Park.
SA is substantially more dangerous than Canada, but don't be completely paranoid. Stick to tourist and middle/upper income areas and attractions and you'll somewhat reduce your exposure. If you want to visit poor areas only do so on a tour.