At this point in the series, I must point out that South Africa has so many amazing experiences and stunning places across all its provinces. However, for the purpose of this series, I limited the series to only thirty reasons for visiting South Africa.
So, with that said and done, know that it is by no means a reflection of how little or how great the respective provinces’ tourism spectrum is. Scroll down to the end and see for yourself what is waiting for you besides the thirty highlighted experiences.
The Northern Cape Province
South Africa has a wide range of 4×4 off-road adventures across the country. Explore its spectacular countryside, or drive in the majestic mountains of Stellenbosch on a wine safari.
Another popular combination is a 4×4 adventure combined with camping in the Richtersveld (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Suggested Read: The Richtersveld Flora Challenge. The plant life of Richtersveld is special and unique. The area has the highest diversity of succulent plants in the world. No wonder then that it is a World Heritage Site consisting of three biomes – desert, succulent Karoo, and fynbos.
Kwa Zulu Natal (KZN)
South Africa’s sardine run is one of the greatest migrations in the world.
One of the most amazing experiences I had was the millions (yes, literally!) of sardines sweeping past me in the waves. I could walk into the water surrounded by sardines. It was an unforgettable experience.
The run occurs when a coastal current of cold-water heads north from the Agulhas Bank up to Mozambique. Imagine shoals 7 km long, 1.5 km wide, and 30 meters deep!
We were in Trafalgar on the South Coast of KwaZulu Natal. It was so super special, as we unwittingly went for a walk on the beach! We got our best surprise ever. In addition to all that, the seagulls flying above and dipping into the ocean was another unforgettable sight.
“First reported in the Natal Mercury paper on August 4, 1853, this is one of the great global events of the marine calendar. It involves vast shoals of sardines moving north along the coast of the Eastern Cape and Natal, with numbers immeasurable to man. They are pursued by anything with teeth, a beak – or a camera.” – Resource: Monty Halls, who wrote about the run for Telegraph Travel.
The best time to experience the phenomenal sardine run is from May to July.
Usually, it lasts between 3 and 7 days.
The Eastern Cape Province
The sardine run is not exclusive to Kwa Zulu Natal. It can also be seen in East London, Port Saint Johns, Coffee Bay, and Gqeberha (previously Port Elizabeth).
“Few people realize that South Africa is one of the best places in the world to learn to surf. Waves are reliable and charismatic. Its eastern shores that fringe the Indian Ocean are empty and warm. One-on-one surf lessons are more affordable than group sessions in Cornwall.” – Resource: The Telegraph
Jeffrey’s Bay, the country’s most popular surfing beach, may have smaller waves but it is super scenic. The water is an enjoyable temperature being a blend from the Atlantic and Indian oceans. It is also home to the Billabong Pro surfing competition, held in July each year.
Suggested Read: Why SA is one of the best holidays – featuring the most extreme big wave surf spot in South Africa.
Jeffrey’s Bay
The Otter trail is officially the oldest and undoubtedly the most iconic and most popular hiking trail in South Africa. It is named for the Cape clawless otter which occurs in this region.
Suggested Read: Why SA is a superb holiday choice – Scenic Hikes.
Don’t dream about it…
Book a ticket, get a visa,
and pack your bags.
Make it happen!
Here are more motivations in addition to our 30 reasons why South Africa is one of the best holiday destinations!
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