South Africa Diaries — A Journey of Smiles, Safaris & Surprises 

Recently, I got the chance to chat with one of our guests who travelled with Aviana to South Africa — and his experience completely transformed the way I see this destination. 

The trip spanned 8 nights and 9 days — a group of 30 strangers who soon became travel companions, guided by our ever-energetic and patient tour manager, Mr. Goutam Basu. Little did we know that one of our guests would present us with a prestigious award from Assam as a token of appreciation — travel truly knows how to surprise you! 

Our adventure began in Kolkata, and soon we found ourselves landing in Johannesburg — the bustling heart of South Africa. There was no time to waste; the city tour awaited! From Gandhi Square to Hillbrow Tower and Ellis Park Stadium, the city’s vibrant spirit shone through. And after a long flight, nothing felt more comforting than a hearty Indian dinner — sorry, local cuisine lovers, but sometimes dal and rice win over experiments! 

Next stop was Pretoria, followed by Kruger National Park. The scenic drive through landmarks like the Union Buildings and Voortrekker Monument set the mood for the wild adventure ahead. 

The next morning brought the highlight — the legendary Kruger safari! Watching lions and elephants in their natural habitat was an indescribable thrill — no photo or video could do justice (though, of course, Instagram did get its fair share of updates!). 

From the wilderness, we moved to the coast — flying to George and driving to Mossel Bay, a charming harbour town along the famous Garden Route. Oudtshoorn, the “Feather Capital of the World,” was next on the itinerary. The Cango Caves amazed us with their beauty, and at the Ostrich Farm, we even tried — unsuccessfully — to crack an ostrich egg! Lunch at the farm felt like a mini picnic —one of those thoughtful Aviana touches that makes all the difference. 

The Garden Route continued to enchant us with the Bartolomeu Dias Museum, the historic Post Office Tree, and finally, the breathtaking city of Cape Town. That evening, we sailed into the sunset on a Catamaran Cruise from the Victoria Waterfront — a perfect “main character vibe”! 

Cape Town had plenty more to offer — from the colourful lanes of Bo-Kaap and the historic Castle of Good Hope to the stunning views atop Table Mountain (no picture could do justice to that feeling!). The Two Oceans Aquarium was another highlight — a fascinating glimpse into the marine worlds of both the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. 

Our final day took us on the iconic Cape Peninsula Tour — through Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak Drive, the Penguin Colony, and finally to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, where the land meets the ocean in the most spectacular way. It was the perfect ending to a perfect journey... 

We came home with hearts full of joy, cameras full of memories, and a suitcase full of laundry. South Africa — you were wild, warm, and wonderful!