5 Sporty Ideas For a Luxury Holiday in South Africa

So, you've decided to book the trip of a lifetime: a luxury holiday to South Africa. Any idea what you're going to do out there yet? The terrain, waters and exotic climate make sports in South Africa particularly enjoyable, and there are a number of exotic activities to take part in. Here's my recommended top 5 to you luxury South Africa Holiday makers who don't mind exerting yourself a little?

5. Mountain Biking

Sure, you can go mountain biking just about anywhere, but the outstanding scenery and varied terrain of South Africa means that there are options for experienced bikers wanting a challenge and inexperienced types still getting to grips with gears! If you fall into the former camp, my personal recommendation is to head up to the Tokai Forest Arboretum. The impressive variety of tree species and outstanding views make this one a brilliant trip - an intense ride right at the heart of South African nature. Of course, you're not limited to set routes, and mountain biking is also a great way of getting from your South African hotel to some of the breathtaking sights the country has to offer.

4. World Famous Bungee Jumping

The idea of bungee jumping will send many fleeing to their South African hotel I'm sure, but it's bound to appeal to some, and the country is home to the world's highest commercial bungee jump in the world. Bloukrans Bridge is a massive 216 metres, meaning only the serious thrill seekers need apply! Those that like the sound taking in this extreme sport in South Africa, but don't want to head straight to the deep end should consider Gouritz River Bridge or Kings Kloof Bridge as beginner's points.

3. Sensational Surfing

The sunny weather and ideal conditions make surfing one of the more popular sports in South Africa. Those who have never done it before can easily find local lessons to change them from complete beginners to surfing experts in a matter of days, and the dream environment means that you may never get a better chance than when you're taking a luxury holiday in South Africa. If you want to make this a key part of your trip, you're best served with a South African hotel near the waves at Blouberg, Long Beach, Cool Bay or Big Bay.

2. Sandboarding? Like Snowboarding, but with Sand!

This one is something that's harder to do at home! Sandboarding is a new extreme sport to hit South Africa, and is simply snowboarding, but with sand instead of snow! Indeed, the boards used are modified snowboards, meaning that if you've previously done that extreme sport, South Africa's answer will be second nature! If you are completely new to it, though the country has a number of places you can learn, and in no time you'll be hopping, jumping and falling like a pro! The thrills sandboarders can find on the higher dunes are simply second to none - you can't beat this extreme sport in South Africa for incomparable adrenalin bursts?

1. Tandem Paragliding - The Best Views in South Africa

But for the camaraderie, outstanding views and unforgettable experience, tandem paragliding is my recommended sport in South Africa. It's seen tremendous growth in the country since the late 80s, and now has more than 1200 flying sites and 900 registered pilots throughout the country! With two harnesses and a large glider, tandem paragliding is perfect for those who want to share the wonders of the South African skyline with others. With views you'll never forget and an unmatched sensation of the wind in your hair, tandem paragliding is something every sporty type should try on a luxury holiday in South Africa.

So if you were short of inspiration before, you should have plenty of ideas of activities for your luxury holiday in South Africa now! Start counting the days and consider which activity you want to tackle first?

Sally Rushbrooke is a South Africa expert for key2holidays, an online tour operator specialising in luxury holidays in South Africa, as well as holidays in Australia, Cuba, the Caribbean, Europe, the Far East, the Maldives, Mauritius and the Seychelles, Egypt and Southern Africa. Key2holidays has a dedicated team of experienced travel consultants to share their knowledge and help you to plan and book your ideal holiday.