We recently asked readers which of their products appealed to the Nordic market. Below are some of the best options.

1. Escape Cycling Tours

“We have developed a niche market for the Scandinavians – cycling tours around South Africa. We have over 50 different itineraries covering South Africa, varying in duration from two to 21 days, all tried and tested. Escape Cycling Tours conducts tours throughout Southern Africa on either mountain or road bikes, for all ages. We also do training camps for the very serious and professional riders. A back-up vehicle with qualified cycling tourist guides are always present, plus a bike technician.”

Chris Murray, Escape Cycling Tours

2. Simbavati Safari Lodges

“Simbavati Safari Lodges in the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve bordering the Kruger National Park, is fast gaining popularity and market share in the Nordic market. Guests are offered a variety of accommodation types that cater for different segments of the market, at a rate that is perceived to be good value rather than over-the-top expensive luxury. Both lodges at Simbavati cater exceptionally well for this market, namely the child-friendly River Lodge, where there is a choice of family suites with multiple bedrooms and luxury tents, and the smaller Hilltop Lodge with only eight luxury suites that cater for guests who demand more exclusivity, such as the honeymoon segment of the market, for example.”

Henk Graaf, MD of SW Africa Destination Management

3. Winelands, Garden Route & Safari Tour

“Springbok Atlas Tours & Safaris offers a 12-day Winelands, Garden Route & Safari Tour covering the key destinations and areas of interest to the Nordic market – nature and wildlife. This is combined with four nights based in Cape Town for a balance of city and nightlife. Also included are a wide range of adventures and activities throughout – other key requirements for this market. The tour is popular as it fits perfectly with the slightly longer holidays taken by Nordic travellers, averaging between eight and 14 days, and is mainly based on their preferred four-star grade for hotels and lodges.”

Glenn McKeag, CEO Springbok Atlas Tours & Safaris

4. Three Trees at Spioenkop

“Three Trees at Spioenkop offers an authentic, sustainable and unique experience in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains in KwaZulu Natal. This is exactly what Nordic travellers are looking for, according to recent research. Spectacular scenery, locally grown farm-style food, exquisite linen and superb hosts make this lodge the ideal environment in which to escape and explore. This intimate luxury lodge is Fair Trade certified and places great emphasis on cultural and environmental sustainability. The colonial designed lounge/dining area with its large verandas, creates an ideal environment in which enjoy nature. The lodge boasts a fine, award-winning South African wine list for guests to enjoy. Activities include horse trails, mountain hiking, birding, mountain biking and rhino tracking in the game reserve. White-water rafting, hot-air ballooning, scenic helicopter rides and canopy tours are available nearby. Perfect for couples and families with young children alike, the lodge has so much to offer.”

Reservations at Three Trees at Spioenkop

5. Conrad Pezula

“Conrad Pezula is particularly suited to the Nordic market. Imagine a place, surrounded by some of the finest golf holes in the world, an endless expanse of blue sea and a lagoon framed against a backdrop of majestic mountains. Imagine long, lazy days on a secluded beach, pure indulgence in an award-winning spa, exquisite organic cuisine and on-site hiking or horse riding. Conrad Pezula is contemporary, luxurious and set in natural surroundings. You will know that you are somewhere special.  You know the service will be attuned to your needs and that everything will be taken care of, because at Conrad, it’s all about you.”

Hanlie De Villiers, Sales and Marketing Manager

6. AVIVA Volunteers

“AVIVA is an established volunteering organisation based in Cape Town. We specialise in organising placements for overseas volunteers at recognised and well-researched wildlife and community projects within South Africa.  Our children’s projects are very popular with Nordic students wanting to make a difference to the children in South Africa. The number of Nordic students have increased over the years and they have become our biggest market for volunteer tourism. The biggest advantage, by booking directly with AVIVA Volunteers, is that they save a vast amount of money compared with going through agents in their own country.”

Michelle Du Plessis, Applications Manager: AVIVA - Volunteering in South Africa

7. InFynnite Destinations

“I specialise in Nordic tours, having travelled and worked in Finland, Denmark, Norway and Sweden.  I speak basic Swedish and specialise in wine and dining tours with a strong historic, cultural and environmental flavour. Nordic countries played a huge role in facilitating peaceful change in SA. Emotive visits to iconic prisons and museums are valued.  Sunny summers are a wonderful antidote to Arctic winter woes. Our cuisine is world class at highly affordable prices. The flora and fauna that so fascinated Linneas are still a wonder. Our wines are delicious and affordable. Anders Ohlsson, a Swede, founded Ohlssons Breweries!”

Hugh Fynn, InFynnite Destinations