Often when we travel, we’re looking for an escape. We dream of destinations half way around the world just to feel no connection to our everyday environment, but an escape may not be as far away as you think. Inspirations Travel and Tours has some amazing ideas for anyone looking for an outdoor escape close to home.

If you live in Durban
Head out to the five-star Zimbali Resort in Ballito for some golf, tennis, and nature discovery with the kids or with a partner. There’s a private beach for lounging in the sun, beautiful decks for dolphin and shark watching, a spa to rejuvenate the body, and 50 hectares of unspoiled natural beauty for hiking, as well as bird and butterfly watching.

If you live in Cape Town
The Whale Rock Lodge is in Westcliff, Hermanus, which is known as the whale watching capital of the world.  While in the vicinity, experience the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley Wine route, and the two award winning golf courses.

If you live in Johannesburg or Pretoria
Take a trip to the Mabula Game Lodge in the Belabela area, about two and a half hours from Johannesburg. Explore the outdoors with its popular game drives, indulge in the best treatments at the spa, and get the kids some fresh air with its great children’s programme.

If you live in Port Elizabeth 
The Amakhala Game Reserve near Grahamstown is home to five of the country’s seven biomes, covering bushveld to savannah. Come here to leave the city behind and get up close and personal with South African wildlife.

Visit Inspiration Travel and Tours to check out deals on getaways to all these locations.

Words: Modupe Oloruntoba
Image: Amakhala Game Reserve