As part of a round-the-world trip last month, I spent 8 days in South Africa, split between a safari and touring the Cape Town region.

The safari was at Londolozi, in the Kruger National Park region, and it was the most fantastic time I have ever had. The animal viewing was even more spectacular that I had dared to hope (this was my first – but definitely not last – safari), and the splendor of the land was an unexpected bonus. Londolozi itself (I stayed in the Tree Camp) was an especially welcoming and comfortable place: luxurious accommodation, marvelous staff, and great food.

In the Cape Town area, I visited a penguin colony, stayed at the wonderful 12 Apostles Hotel on the outskirts of Cape Town, and spent a few days in the Winelands region about an hour’s drive from the city.

Here are a few photos from the safari and the penguin colony; a few more are at http://photobucket.com/albums/a315/dtopaz/ .