Route destination planning is an art and, if well done with well-timed activities, fun attractions, unique experiences and good accommodation, can be a real asset to any itinerary.

Midlands Meander: One of the oldest and most successful routes, it is in the Midlands region of KwaZulu Natal. There are quaint shops selling anything from local books to bric-a-brac to biltong. Stop off for a local ale at the Nottingham Road Brewery (KZN’s oldest brewery), while travellers with kids will enjoy the Piggly Wiggly centre with its rides, shops and restaurants. The Nelson Mandela Capture site in Howick is a major highlight and has an excellent museum. The Marco Cianfanelli sculpture is extraordinary. The route is well sign-posted and visitors could spend a good few days exploring the region.

Cape Route 62: This scenic route starts in the Cape Winelands and winds through a number of small towns such as Wellington, Tulbagh, Ceres, McGregor and Robertson, ending in Oudtshoorn. There are wonderful farm stalls en route and visitors can visit numerous independent brandy farms and cellars on the way (organise for a brandy tasting with the cellarmaster for your clients).  End the journey in historic Oudtshoorn, once home to the Ostrich barons.

Kalahari Red Dune Route: The wild open spaces of the Northern Cape offer a perfect backdrop for dramatic desert adventures. This route begins in The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park and includes activities such as dune hikes and walks, 4x4 adventure trails, and cultural experiences where guests learn about ancient San culture. Birding and photographic safaris are popular.

There are a few routes to consider in the Free State, one of which is the popular Eagle Route. It takes in the town of Clarens with its art galleries, shops and pubs, and the scenic Golden Gate National Highlands Park, with its golden mountains, nature-based activities and overnight accommodation. Ficksburg is home to a cherry farms and Puthaditjhaba is where you will find the Basotho Cultural Village.

For art lovers, the Ribolla Open Africa Route in Limpopo province offers insights into the life and works of some of the famous artists from the region including Noriah Mabasa, Sarah Munyai and the late Jackson Hlungwane. The route includes Elim, Thohoyandou, Makhado and Giyani and visitors can stay over in traditional Tsonga or Venda villages.