From safaris and scuba diving to vineyards and vibrant art scenes, South Africa offers a variety of experiences for travelers and adventure seekers. Seeing the Big Five might be the most well-known reason to visit, but the country's spectacular beauty goes far beyond the bush.

Traveling with AAA host Angie Orth chats with Alexandra Owens, a seasoned travel journalist who focuses on outdoor adventures, sustainability, and cultural storytelling. Her work highlights how conservation and tourism intersect across South Africa as well as how travelers can explore responsibly while immersing themselves in nature, food, and culture.

In this episode, Alexandra shares practical advice for first-time travelers to South Africa—from visas and vaccines to packing for multiple climates—and paints a vivid picture of what it’s like to experience the country’s vast natural landscape. You’ll also hear about South Africa’s rich wine history, the rise of female safari guides, and the growing trend of sustainable “bush-to-table” dining.

What You’ll Learn:

01:35 What to know before your first trip to South Africa

03:18 Experiencing the magic of a safari 

07:01 How “guilt-free” safaris are reshaping sustainable tourism 

16:22 The story behind South Africa’s wine revival 

19:18 Scuba diving, marine safaris, and penguin encounters

Connect with Alexandra Owens:

Website: https://www.alexandraowens.com/

What do you want to see most in South Africa? Tell us in the comments!

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