From the majestic Arabian horses to mountain vistas that stretch forever, Pakamisa Lodge and Game Reserve offers a tranquil escape to the top of the world ZAZA MOTHA[wp_gmaps lat=”-27.460758″ lng=”31.560974″]The exclusive Pakamisa Lodge and Game Reserve rests on the towering slopes of the Pakamisa Mountain on 2 500 hectares of wilderness. Pakamisa is a Zulu word that means ‘to lift up’ and it captures the essence of how you feel on arrival at the lodge. It is blanketed by the lush rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal and situated 15km south-west of the modest town, Pongola. GETTING THERE An air shuttle from…

Skip the Oriental Plaza and head straight to Fordsburg’s Mint Street for authentic Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi cuisine. Just leave room for the sweetmeats… Tabitha Lasley[wp_gmaps lat=”-26.206159″ lng=”28.023119″]For many in Johannesburg, Fordsburg is an emblem of Indian resilience. The previous regime made several sallies into this well-situated suburb, and though many residents were relocated to Lenasia, Indian tradesmen negotiated a settlement to operate in the nearby Oriental Plaza. Meanwhile, it became a hotbed of resistance activity and the first site of white protests against forced removals. Nelson Mandela and Oliver Tambo were regulars at the Delhi Palace. Today Fordsburg is…

For an alternative bush experience, Marataba luxury tented camp is a special blend of romance, modern design and trendy gourmet fare ROSANNE BUCHANAN[wp_gmaps lat=”-24.427771″ lng=”27.58667″]WHERE IS IT? In the Mara concession in the Marakele National Park, a three-hour drive north-west from Joburg. WHY GO THERE? It’s so close to Joburg and Pretoria, but once you are there you are surrounded by 23 000 hectares of private game reserve with dramatic mountains and vast plains. Game drives are exciting as the restored bush terrain is rich in wildlife, allowing some rare sightings as well as the usual Big Five suspects. (The…