Planning a Trip to South Africa?

Question

Me and my friend are planning a trip to south africa maybe another african country in the summer of '09 this is gonna be our first international trip we decided to go to the least expensive country first and make our way up to the expensive countries over the years...we will be 19 and 20...we cant decided if we wanna bring more friends or just join other people...i just wanted to know if its better to just go there and just plan while there or plan one of those tours thing i've seen online...what i really want to do there is see the native people there not in the cities but the natives that havent been influence by the outside world...anyone know a good tour agency and maybe some advice...very much appreciated

Answer 1

No such place exists in SA - Everyone has been "touched by the outside world" , there are however "cultural villages" and monuments etc that gives you a look into how people lived in the old days. You should contact a tour company for more info.

good luck.

Answer 2

What is your perception of 'native people?' If you want to experience raw society, untouched by the basic values of democracy and the rule of law, you can find it today in any gathering of the ANC youth league.

Answer 3

I agree with everyone below, rural areas exist but trust us, it's not what you're picturing. I would also suggest the more the merrier! (ans safer)

I'd suggest staying in backpackers where you find other tourists and have all the info. there that you need of places to see etc.

There are so many things you need to see if you come to South Africa. There are 8 World Heritage Sites...

Places I definitely suggest:

*Drakensburg (Amazing views and some bushmen paintings)

*Cape Town and surrounds (Table mountain, wine tasting, whale watching)

*Game Reserves such as Kruger park or Hluhluwe (Majestic wildlife experiences, relaxing)

*Garden Route (Coastal villages and seaside resorts abound, appealing to nature lovers.)

Answer 4

As you are only 19 and 20 yrs old, you are going to have some trouble getting around.  I would suggest that you contact a tour company and at least for the first few days go with people - you can catch the "bazbus" http://www.bazbus.co.za where you will find like-minded people.

Have fun!

Answer 5

I agree with the oak above me,everyone has been touched =P

I would say plan before you get here,I mean this is your first trip.

Answer 6

It is a beautiful country but you will not really find "untouched" natives. Perhaps if you go to rural Transkei, Limpopo and Mpumalanga you will still find traces of African culture. But beware to not travel on your own - be part of an organised group if you wish to visit these outlaying areas. South Africa has crime, like every country in the world. Just do not be stupid and go into areas where gangsterism rules, and do not appear very "touristy" and flashy. I have been living here all my life and have never been a victim of serious crime. I have been a victim of crime in Europe and the UK though. Plan ahead, get some information on the web (there are lots of site - start with SA Tourism). It is a big country so one has to fly and drive quite a lot. Do not hitchhike. Enjoy your trip and it is very cheap if you are paying in pounds!!