Mixed experience in South Africa — beautiful but overhyped

South Africa is undeniably beautiful. Drakensberg and the area around Knysna have a visual quality that photographs don't capture fully. I enjoyed bunny chow and appreciated extraordinary biodiversity. That's all real.

But crime requires vigilance especially in cities was more of a problem than I expected based on reviews I'd read. It coloured parts of the trip in ways I hadn't prepared for. I'd still go back, but I'd approach certain aspects differently. A 4 feels generous on a bad day but fair overall.