South Africa’s fantastic beaches are a mecca for surfers and water-sports enthusiasts, while its rugged, mountainous interior offers thrill-seekers a variety of adventure activities. Naturally, no visit would be complete without travelling to one of the country’s 18 National Parks, where one can expect fascinating encounters with the “Big Five”—elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard. During the winter months, whale-watching is a firm favourite with locals and visitors alike.