South Africa is famous for its various magnificent landscapes, from savannah, to mountains, to beaches and more. December is right around the corner and what could be a better way to spend the festive season than to escape into nature and explore the beauty of our country. We have compiled a list of our 10 must-see places in South Africa.
Blyde River Canyon
Blyde River Canyon, part of the Panorama Route in Mpumalanga, is the third-largest canyon in the world. Roughly 25-km long and an average of around 750-meters deep, it is officially the largest green canyon due to its prolific subtropical vegetation.
Read here for places to explore and stay along the Panorama Route.
Hogsback
Hogsback in the Eastern Cape is an ideal summer holiday destination for South Africans and tourists alike. The cascading waterfalls, lush green forests and astonishing views make Hogsback a slice of heaven.
For suggestions for affordable accommodation in the area, read here.
Kruger National Park
One of South Africa’s most popular safari holiday destinations, Kruger Park is especially worth visiting in December. The park is green after the summer rains and abundant with young animals born in spring. The birdlife is exceptional and the foliage exquisite. The possibility of seeing the Big Five is sure to motivate you to get up for those early morning game drives, and when you do come across a wild animal, the hustle of getting to the park will be so worthwhile.
If you’re planning a road trip to the Kruger National Park, find some helpful tips here.
The Cederberg
Located in the Western Cape a two-hour drive from Cape Town, the Cederberg is a wonderful place to go to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Besides the superb hiking and rock-climbing opportunities, there are plenty of refreshing rivers and icy-cool pools.
Read about the best camping spots in the Cederberg here.
The Valley of 1000 Hills
In the beautiful province of KwaZulu-Natal lies the Valley of 1000 Hills. Among these hills, you’ll feel far, far away from the city, while in fact being just an hour-and-a-half drive from the centre of Durban.
View exceptional photos of the Valley of 1000 Hills here.
The Drakensberg
The Drakensberg, which translates to ‘Dragon’s Mountain’, is the eastern part of the Great Escarpment. With its highest peak, Thabana Ntlenyana, reaching 3 482 meters, the Drakensberg is a top place for both thrill-seekers and laid-back lovers of nature.
Find out about some of the best Drakensberg getaways here.
Ficksburg
Somewhere along the Highlands Route you will find yourself arriving in the cherry capital of the world. A quaint and unpretentious town within the Eastern Free State, Ficksburg sits between the Imperani Mountain and the Caledon river, the border separating South Africa and Lesotho. The picturesque landscapes will make for incredible backdrops to your Christmas photos.
Find our list of the best Ficksburg accommodation here.
Clarens
Situated at the foot of the Maluti Mountains, and an hour away from Ficksburg, you will find charming Clarens. Rightly named the “Jewel of the Eastern Free State”, this beautiful town has a cosy and welcoming atmosphere, and outstanding mountain views. Despite being a fairly small town, it is on the holiday hot-list, meaning it is necessary to book accommodation in advance.
Read here to find a place to stay in Clarens that suits your holiday needs.
Coffee Bay
Along the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape lies the surfer’s paradise that is Coffee Bay. With famous sites like the the Hole-in-the-wall, Coffee Bay is an offbeat and relaxing destination. Whether you want to be on the beach, or just unwinding in a picturesque environment, this is the destination for you.
Find out the coolest place to learn to surf in Coffee Bay here.
Cape Town
No South African destination listicle would be complete without the Mother City. From the city centre, to the mountains, beaches, and Cape Winelands, there is no shortage of activities to do and places to see in Cape Town. Summer is the perfect time to visit, as the warm weather brings later sunsets and earlier mornings. Whether you’re a night-owl who enjoys long dinners in the city’s great restaurants or an early-bird who wants to explore Table Mountain National Park, the city has something for everyone.
In case you don’t believe me, here are some of our top things to do in the Mother City.
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