South Africa is an immense country. Its north-eastern border, defined by the waters of the mighty Limpopo River, is some 1,200 miles from the craggy coastline of the south while the semi-arid western coastline, beaten by the icy waters of the Atlantic, is more than a thousand miles from the lush East coast of the Indian Ocean.
Often called the ‘Rainbow Nation’, South Africa offers many worlds within one country. The variety of scenery is unrivalled - from beautiful forests to dramatic coastlines and vibrant cities. South Africa’s culture and history are staggeringly diverse, with a plethora of official languages and a complex mix of influences from all over the world. The indigenous Khoisan, Bantu and Nguni people kept their traditions throughout the colonial and apartheid times. The impact of the British and the Dutch rule may be the most obvious, but many Portuguese, French, German, Italian and Jewish immigrants, and many others, also left significant marks in South African history and culture. Enforced immigration from the Indian subcontinent, Sri Lanka and Indonesia has also added a whole new flavour, literally and metaphorically, to South Africa. Apartheid shaped the country in the 20th century – it may be dead but its legacy is still palpable in a very physical and psychological way. So, it is hardly surprising that, after over 30 years of non-racial democracy, the complex identity of the ‘Rainbow Nation’ is still somewhat of a mystery to a foreign visitor.
This unique journey has been specially designed by Nirvana Romell, a naturalized South African, with the hope of unravelling some of the many historical, cultural and social paradoxes that make up this scintillating and spectacularly beautiful nation. From Johannesburg to Cape Town, via the Highveld bush and Cape Winelands, learn more of this wonderful country – its history, culture, flora, fauna – and enjoy its fabulous cuisine and wines.
The journey has been organised for the Alumni of Cambridge University. It is also open to Alumni of Oxford University and friends and family of Alumni. Please note that Distant Horizons has sole responsibility for the operation of this tour. The Universities have no direct control over the operation of any trips.
Please note the trip price does not include the international flights to Johannesburg and from Cape Town.
The journey is limited to 20 travellers.
Trip Leader: Mrs Nirvana Romell
Nirvana was born and grew up in Croatia. After graduating from the University of Zagreb in Croatia with a degree in History of Art and English language and literature, she spent a decade in South Africa. Used to the “tribal complexities” of the former Yugoslavia, Nirvana found the newly-democratic republic fascinating and enthralling. During her decade in Johannesburg, and through her work in political consultancy and extensive travels, she developed and nurtured a keen interest in South African multifaceted social and political history, and traditional African art.