The majority of people who love to travel have probably listed South Africa among one of their must places to visit. There are hundreds upon hundreds of exciting things you can do here, but here are some must do activities that you simply can’t miss:
Ride an Ostrich
Safari Ostrich Park is the ostrich capital of the world, established and run by ostrich farmers. You can watch the 150 birds in their natural habitat, and even take the opportunity to ride on the back of an adult ostrich!
Barter at The Market
Every weekend there’s a market showcasing South Africa’s culinary delights, amongst other things. Locals and tourists all flock here to explore the crafts, fashion stalls, and tasters of the fresh South African food.
Enjoy the Spectacular View Above the Cape of Storms
Once nicknamed the Cape of Storms by Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias, Cape Point’s rugged rocks and steep cliffs are located 200m high above the sea. Up until 1859, the rocky landscape and nighttime fog often caused shipwrecks. That was until the lighthouse was built. Climb to the top of the lighthouse and enjoy the Table National Park, where you’ll surely spot one of the park’s 250 species of animal! You can find tours of South Africa from Adventure World, and they’ll help you to do all kinds of amazing things like this.
Go Whale Spotting
If you choose to visit Hermanus between July and November, make sure you take advantage of whale watching! You don’t even have to leave the shore here, it’s full of people who go whale spotting right from the land. You can then go to nearby Betty’s Bay and see hundreds of penguins right up close!
Try South Africa’s Version of Fast Food
Ever heard of bunny chow? Don’t worry, it doesn’t contain rabbits! Bunny chow is actually the closest thing you’ll get to fast food in South Africa. The recipe is very simple, curry with mutton, lamb, chicken, or beans inside of a hollowed out bread loaf. It’s a lovely treat dating back to the 1940’s. To order it like a local, simple say the size and the kind in a short phrase. For example, if you want a half loaf with beans, you’d just say ‘quarter beans’. The loaf comes in full, half, and a quarter. You don’t need a fork either – just enjoy!
Climb a Mountain
The Drakensberg is an Unesco World Heritage site, and the source of Tugela River, which drops 900 meters into the valley beneath the peak. The hike is suitable for all fitness levels, so it’s an opportunity you shouldn’t miss out on. You could even choose a rock climbing route if you’re more experienced!
Take Pictures of the World’s Largest green Canyon
The Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga is the third biggest canyon in the world, and the largest green canyon. Take a look at it from both top and bottom to have your breath taken away. You can even enjoy a river cruise at the bottom.
You’d only regret it if you missed out on any one of these activities in South Africa. Have fun!
