Independent - Travel - May 2023

TRAVEL

Experience Africa in all its

“You can see a sunset and believe you have witnessed the Hand of God. You watch the slope lope of a lioness and forget to breathe. You marvel at the tripod of a giraffe bent to water. In Africa, there are iridescent blues on the wings of birds that you do not see anywhere else in nature. In Africa, in the midday heart, you can see blisters in the atmosphere. When you are in Africa, you feel primordial, rocked in the cradle of the world.”

JODI PICOULT

CO NT EN TS

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF

Aziz Hartley aziz.hartley@inl.co.za

ACTING EXECUTIVE LIFESTYLE EDITOR/ TRAVEL Debashine Thangevelo debashine.thangevelo@inl.co.za

DESIGN

Tanya Fynn tanya.fynn@inl.co.za

PRODUCTION EDITOR

Renata Ford renata.ford@inl.co.za

BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Mike Ntsasa mike.ntsasa@inl.co.za

CONTENT MARKETING

Keshni Odayan keshni.odayan@inl.co.za

SALES

Charl Reineke charl.reineke@inl.co.za

INQUIRIES digimags@inl.co.za

IN CELEBRATION of African Month, this edition of the Travel magazine takes readers on a journey through the continent. Whether you are wanting to be a culture vulture or you are seeking an adventure, a culinary escape or a place that is simply paradise on Earth, we have you covered.

The cover story is all about basking in luxury at the best hotels in Africa. Guests are treated to picture-perfect views and unique experiences. Of course, if you can afford to splurge, why not.

But if the budget doesn’t allow it, stay closer to home and explore some of the most charming towns in Mzansi. You get to wallow in nature, find out more about the place’s history and tuck into treats that are distinct to the place. Honestly, it’s one of my favourite ways to travel.

Of course, we also experienced a major event on the tourism calendar with Travel Indaba 2023. Aside from being a success, it provided insight into the growth in the sector as well as trends.

Now, if you are a foodie, Africa has plenty to whet your appetite. Aside from listing the countries that offer the best culinary experiences, we also look at the best street foods. And if you are in SA, we list the trendy bars that are the talk of the town. It’s all about the atmosphere mixed with great company and cocktails.

While there is much beauty to be found in travel, there is also the bizarre. And if Africa is top of mind as a destination, a safari is definitely on the itinerary. But one travel agent had a bit of an eye-roll moment at some outrageous requests.

I hope this edition stokes the wanderlust and inspires you to explore the splendour of the African continent at some point. Happy travels!

CELEBRATE THE BEST OF AFRICA AT

THESE

LUXURIOUS HOTELS

ZAMANDOSI CELE

THE month of May is recognised as Africa month, a time when the continent of Africa commemorates the founding of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU). It’s also a time set aside to celebrate the continent, her people, culture and beauty.

Africa as a tourism destination has plenty to offer a traveller. When it comes to luxury accommodation, the continent also boasts beautiful properties in scenic locations worthy of recognition as the world’s best. The continent is coming alive once again and teeming with untapped potential and unlimited possibilities.

To commemorate Africa Month, here are 10 of the best luxury hotels on the continent, which have also been recognised as the world’s best. These hotels made it onto Travel+ Leisure’s “The 100 Best Hotels in the World”, so if you’re travelling to South Africa, Morocco, Tanzania or Rwanda, these are the leading luxury hotels to consider.

Royal Mansour Marrakech, Morocco

Set within the storied walls of the city’s energetic medina, this 12-acre expanse functions almost like a city unto itself. The hotel boasts 53 private riads designed in mosaic tiles, thick carpets, and artisan furniture, plus a spacious outdoor pool, fragrant gardens, and Michelin-starred dining.

A stay at the hotel starts from 12 600 MAD (R23 844.79) for a night for two.

The Oberoi, Marrakech, Morocco

Contained within a 1.2 million-square-foot orchard filled with citrus and olive trees, this newcomer impresses with both its size and Moorish architecture. Villas feature private plunge pools for ultimate privacy, and an Ayurvedic spa offers meditation, yoga and healing spa treatments to help guests relax.

A stay starts from R15 863 a night for two.

Wilderness Safaris Bisate Lodge, Volcanoes National Park, Rwanda

The unforgettable experience of gorilla trekking is the focus of this lodge at the edge of Volcanoes National Park. Spacious thatched-roof guest rooms are among the most stylish accommodations you'll find in the region, and the kitchen pays particular attention to growing vegetables to give meals a locavore touch.

A stay starts from $7.5K (R142 973).

Cape Grace, Cape Town

Cape Grace has been commended for its first-rate attention to detail. The Table Mountain facing harbour-side hotel features antiques and stunning handpainted fabrics that mingle with dramatic chandeliers and sculptural, decorative art pieces to create a layered design identity. It also boasts a fine-dining restaurant. A whiskey-obsessed bar and spa round out the experience.

Price available on request.

Mandarin Oriental, Marrakech, Morocco

This 50-acre expanse of palms, olive trees and shimmering lakes houses 54 rustic yet elegant suites and

THE Silo Hotel at the V&A Waterfront. | Instagram

ENTER paradise at Mandarin Oriental Marrakech. | Instagram

villas. You can use one of the house cars if you want to explore the Red City, located 5km from the medina, but a Hakkasan restaurant, grand pools, and a massive spa will keep you properly busy even if you don’t.

A stay at the hotel starts from R23 389 a night for two.

Gibb’s Farm, Karatu, Tanzania

At Gibb’s Farm, a variety of gardens (rose, cacti, herb) landscape a nearly 100-year-old farmhouse on the edge of the Ngorongoro Crater. Outdoor showers and in-room fireplaces lead the list of luxury amenities.

Of course, game drives are on the itinerary, but food and agricultural experiences in the form of baking classes and coffee picking create the most unique lodge in East Africa.

A stay at a cottage starts from $1 160.00 (about R22 000) a night for two.

One&Only Nyungwe House, Nyungwe Forest National Park, Rwanda

On a tea plantation just outside southern Rwanda’s Nyungwe National Park, the 22-room Nyungwe House’s remote rain-forest setting is truly special, particularly if jungle treks in search of chimpanzees and other wildlife are high on your list of activities.

A stay starts from R40 096 a night for two.

Silo Hotel, Cape Town

This head-turning hotel on the V&A Waterfront shook up Cape Town’s hotel scene when it opened in 2017. High ceilings and massive windows hint at the building’s industrial history, but free-standing tubs, tufted headboards, and sculptural chairs add an opulent European aesthetic. The quality of African art pieces found throughout gives every corner a sense of discovery.

A stay starts from R25 000 a night for two.

andBeyond Ngorongoro Crater Lodge, Ngorongoro Conservation Area, Tanzania

At this elegant 30-suite lodge there’s a playful medley of aesthetics. Banana-leaf ceilings and teak panellings evoke the rustic safari experience, while chandeliers and crystal adornments lend the property moments of unexpected glamour. All of this takes a back seat to some of the most stunning views of Ngorongoro, plus spectacular wildlife viewing.

A stay at a suite starts from $1 325 (R25 258) a night.

Birkenhead House, Hermanus, South Africa

From the grounds of this very chic beach house, you can enjoy the gentle sea breeze while marvelling at the humpback and southern right whales. Other activities at this property from the Royal Portfolio collection include hiking, surfing and gathering mussels.

A stay starts from R11 100 a night for two.

THE Nyungwe King Room at Nyungwe House. | Instagram

A TABLE with a view at The Oberoi Marrakech. | Instagram

THE Grand Riad at Royal Mansour Marrakech. | Instagram

WILDERNESS Bisate’s luxury, Forest Villas allow for complete natural immersion. | Instagram

African countries you can visit for a great foodie experience

LUTHO PASIYA

FOR foodies looking to discover the best of Africa’s unique and authentic experiences, we have selected the best travel destinations for you.

One thing is for certain: African food is just as diverse as its people. From the West to the East to the North and South, some foods are so delectable they’re worth taking a trip for.

If you are not familiar with African cuisine, it is a mix of ingredients such as cereal grains, vegetables, meat products, and locally available fruits.

The traditional preparation features mostly milk, curd, and whey products in some parts of the continent.

Here are some of the best countries you can go to for a great food experience.

Seychelles

The popular and beautiful country of Seychelles offers the freshest seafood and contemporary options with Caribbean fusion on most of its islands. Indulge in unlimited fresh local fish and seafood served in a variety of local dishes. The idyllic tropical atmosphere is always amazing, and the setting really is beautiful.

Morocco

Tea in Morocco is one of the finest in the world. Maghrebi tea, as it is known, is green tea infused with fresh spearmint and sugar boiled in hot water and then poured from long-snout teapots to aerate the tea. The intricately designed tea glasses replace typical teacups and improve the experience of sipping carefully made tea.

Nigeria

The country boasts a delicious array of traditional foods – a combination of meat, maize, vegetables, and spices. You would be doing yourself a disservice to not try dishes such as jollof rice and egusi soup. The former’s basic ingredients are rice, tomatoes, onion, and pepper. You can customise it according to your own liking and even add your choice of meat. The latter is prepared using melon seeds, palm oil, vegetables, dried fish, and stewed meat. Egusi soup is best enjoyed with pounded yam and garri, a popular West African food made from cassava tubers.

South Africa

When it comes to food, there’s something delicious to try on pretty much every street corner of South Africa, both local and global cuisines. Being one of Africa’s most visited tourist countries, SA offers its visitors a rich diversity of culinary influences. You won’t want to miss out on a traditional bunny chow and delicious bobotie.

SEAFOOD in the Seychelles and South African bobotie.

TAPPING INTO AFRICA’S UNLIMITED POTENTIAL

ZAMANDOSI CELE

AFRICA’S unlimited potential came under the spotlight at Africa Travel Indaba 2023, which took place earlier this month.

With the month of May being Africa Month, delegates from all over the continent and the world gathered at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, KwaZulu Natal, showcasing all that Africa has to offer as a tourism destination.

The spectacle symbolised hope for recovery and a brighter future for African travel as the sector gathered without any Covid restrictions, which severely

impacted travel and tourism for the past three years.

More than 6 000 delegates, including 1 000 international buyers and 1 000 exhibitors showcasing 350 products, participated in this year’s event.

Africa working together

In the opening ceremony, South African Tourism Minister Patricia de Lille spoke passionately on the importance of African tourism highlighting the need “for collaboration and innovation to drive growth in the sector”.

The minister said the competition was essential for destination marketing and tourism and that “it should be balanced with collaboration to avoid unhealthy

practices and foster healthy competition based on quality and innovation”.

She called for the harmonising of visa regimes and simplifying the application process to unlock Africa’s tourism potential and attract more visitors to the continent.

According to De Lille, collaboration across the value chain is necessary to make it easier for visitors to move from one country to another within the continent.

Inclusivity and diversity in the tourism sector

The minister also highlighted that the event was “very inclusive” of the whole of the continent. On the South African front, evidence of this can be seen in the participation of women and youth.

De Lille, and KwaZulu-Natal Premier, Nomsa Dube-Ncube, presented a united front and rang

the bell at the ceremony marking the start of Travel Indaba. Newly appointed SA Tourism acting CEO, Nomasonto Ndlovu, officiated at the opening ceremony, along with centre CEO, Lindiwe Rakharebe.

Tourism KwaZulu-Natal employed youth from around the province as ATI Ambassadors, providing opportunities for job creation in a country plagued by youth unemployment.

“ATI plays a significant role in providing employment. As its contribution, TKZN will employ 40 unemployed graduates as ambassadors to assist delegates for the duration of Africa’s Travel Indaba,” said TKZN acting CEO Nhlanhla Khumalo.

Supporting tourism businesses in the country

The Department of Tourism said it supported 123 local small inbound tourism enterprises through its

MINISTER Patricia De Lille received a warm welcome from her counterpart, Minister Vera Kamtukule, at Malawian exhibition stand. l Twitter

MINISTER Patricia de Lille at the Women in Tourism breakfast at ATI 2023. l Twitter

THE minister engages with another local supplier at ATI2023. l Twitter

LOCAL youth at the Africa Travel Indaba. l Supplied

market access support programme to showcase their products and services at Africa’s Travel Indaba.

According to the minister, the total value of support approved for the 123 enterprises amounts to R11.7 million. This investment enabled these small businesses to display their unique products and services, expand their networks, and foster partnerships that will drive the growth and sustainability of the tourism industry in South Africa.

Speaking on the experience of showcasing at Africa Travel Indaba, Paul de Waal founder and CEO of WETU, a proudly South African B2B software technology platform that connects hotels and suppliers with agents around the world, said they started this platform to help Africa sell travel better.

“There are a lot of shows but I always enjoy coming back to Indaba; it feels like our home. We started here… it was the only show and we used to come here. I think it’s still an amazing show. We’ve been doing it for 15 years and I’ll probably do it for another 15,” said De Waal.

Nyasha Nyukurwa, representing Coastal Beach Resort south of Durban in Umgababa, said the experience of showcasing at the Indaba has been overwhelming.

“We’ve had people not only from parts of South Africa, but from other countries as well. They are interested in coming to this establishment. So we are

hoping that by the end of this whole trade, show we will have more players coming on board to work with us,” said Nyukurwa.

Durban as a leisure destination

As the host city of Africa Travel Indaba, Durban also had the opportunity to position itself as a business and leisure destination.

According to the eThekwini Municipality mayor, Mxolisi Kaunda, since the full return to business activity post-Covid, the municipality has identified meetings, conferences, workshops and business travel as its main area of focus to attract visitors.

The mayor told the minister that guided by the Durban Tourism visitor marketing strategy, the municipality has been working tirelessly to grow this niche market by partnering with major convention centres.

As part of the fun side of the Indaba, corporate attorney and #RunningWithTumiSole founder Tumi Sole, hosted a 5km Travel Indaba fun run on Durban’s Golden Mile Promenande.

Minister de Lille and acting CEO Ndlovu participated in the run. Speaking at the early morning event, the minister said she really enjoyed the exercise.

“Durban has got the best weather. I really, really enjoyed the good exercise. And I wish I just lived here to do it more regularly,” said De Lille.

MINISTER Patricia de Lille with local exhibitors at the Indaba. | Twitter

#RUNNINGWITHTUMISOLE founder, Tumi Sole, and Minister Patricia de Lille at Durban’s Golden Mile following a Fun Run. l Twitter

RIDING LIONS ON SAFARI?

TRAVEL COMPANIES SAY ‘NO’ AS UNUSUAL REQUESTS INCREASE

BERNELEE VOLLMER

RIDING a lion is prohibited due to the danger it poses to both humans and animals. Lions are wild animals and are not meant to be ridden, especially for entertainment purposes.

It may seem like a strange request because a lion is, after all, unpredictable and can attack humans, causing severe injuries and can even lead to death.

A travel consultant at Discover Africa told CNBC she was asked by clients if their young son could ride a lion on a safari! When the consultant explained it was not possible, the clients asked what other wild animals their son could ride. People would do anything for the Gram, and this seems like one of them: “Hey look, my son, riding the most dangerous animal.”

“I reminded them they were wild animals, and there was no possibility of this happening,” said the senior travel consultant.

This statement seemed to upset the travellers, who then decided not to travel with the company. Instead, they chose to travel to India, where riding

a tiger is allowed.

According to the World Animal Protection organisation, wildlife tourism that includes activities such as riding, petting, or taking selfies with wild animals can cause severe physical and psychological harm to the animals. This includes lions, who may experience stress and trauma from being ridden or subjected to other unnatural activities.

Additionally, several countries have laws and regulations in place to protect wild animals from exploitation for tourism purposes. For example, in South Africa, it is illegal to ride elephants or interact with lions that are older than 8 months.

It’s important to be ethical when it comes to dealing with animals on your trips. And seriously, asking to ride a lion is just plain crazy and borderline animal abuse. There are way better ways to enjoy animals, like checking out ethical wildlife tourism activities such as observing animals from a safe distance in their natural habitats.

Therefore, as travellers, educate yourself and your family on responsible tourism practices and discourage activities that exploit wild animals.

RAISING THE BAR

If you are looking for a new hangout, these stylish bars in Cape Town, Johannesburg and Durban are worth the visit

BERNELEE VOLLMER

CAPE TOWN

Tjing Tjing Rooftop Bar

Located on the top of Tjing Tjing House in Longmarket Street, it was named one of the best new bars in the world by Condé Nast Traveler in 2012.

The bar has a Japanese twist, adorned with eclectic furnishings and a striking shrine-red bar designed by Warren Franken.

Decorated with owner Ilze Koekemoer’s black-and-white photographs of Tokyo and Kyoto, the rooftop bar provides a vibrant and cool atmosphere for patrons and opens up to an airy outside terrace.

The drinks menu is extensive and includes bespoke cocktails, Japanese whisky, gin, and sake, as well as an extensive wine list, including Tjing Tjing’s house wine.

Delicious snacks known as otsumami are also available to complement the drinks.

House of Artezian

If you’re looking for a watering hole that offers much more than your average bar, then you should definitely check out House of Artezian.

Located in the heart of the city, this tapas restaurant, bar and art gallery is where the cool kids go to hang out, and by cool kids, we mean celebs.

The name Artezian is derived from the flow of natural water, almost like a spring. And just like the flow of water, everything at Artezian is constantly changing and evolving.

From the rotating art exhibits to the ever-changing cocktail menu, there’s always something new and exciting to discover.

Artezian is also known for its signature drinks, like the Captain Bob. This drink is not for the faint of heart, made with smoked chilli pineapple, Bobbejaan liqueur, lime juice, simple syrup, navy strength gin, and chilli oil. One sip of this spicy concoction and you’ll be ready to set sail on a wild adventure.

The bar is known for playing the latest and greatest tracks from up-and-coming artists, as well as classic tunes that will have you singing along at the top of your lungs.

And don’t worry if you’re not the best singer –the music is so loud that no one will even hear you. So, grab your friends and head over to the House of Artezian for a night you won’t forget.

JOHANNESBURG Benchwarmers

Benchwarmers, located in the bustling suburb of Rosebank, is not your average sports bar.

Created by the team behind the popular Smoking Kills, led by Peter Good, Benchwarmers offers an enjoyable social experience.

While you can certainly catch the latest game on their screens, this bar was designed with social interaction in mind.

Beyond the sports and socialising, Benchwarmers offers an array of mouth-watering burgers and ice-cold beers, providing the perfect accompaniment to any game or social gathering.

For those looking to combine fitness with fun, the bar’s very own running club is an excellent way to get in some exercise and make new friends.

With its prime corner location and chilled vibes, Benchwarmers is a must-visit spot in Jozi.

San Deck, Bar & Restaurant

This rooftop terrace, located on the sixth floor of the Sandton Sun Hotel in Johannesburg, offers outdoor spaces and a view of the city skyline.

It serves fresh South African cuisine for both lunch and dinner, and a wide selection of South African beer, wines and spirits mixed into signature SAN cocktails.

The venue has various seating options, including dining tables, bar stools, lounge sofas, and beanbags by the fireplace.

The bar is open all day, with generous opening hours, and DJs usually take over on the decks between 6pm and 10pm, Thursday to Saturday, creating a vibrant atmosphere.

It is recommended to visit during sunset for a magical experience.

DURBAN Views At Twenty5

A must-visit bar and grill in Morningside that boasts stunning views of Moses Mabhida Stadium and the city skyline. While it is primarily a restaurant, the bar and lounge area is perfect for enjoying sundowners with friends.

Views At Twenty5 serves a variety of dishes, including sharing platters, gourmet pizzas, and juicy meat cuts.

In the evenings, the bar comes to life with lively DJs who get the crowd going, making it a great spot for those who want to dance but don't want to go to a club.

Whether you’re in the mood for something sweet, refreshing, or strong, there is a drink to suit every

on Chartwell, uMhlanga. | Instagram

taste. With its spectacular views and lively atmosphere, Views At Twenty5 is a must-visit bar in Durban.

14 on Chartwell, uMhlanga

If you’re looking for a sophisticated and spacious environment to socialise and get to know someone better, 14 on Chartwell is the perfect spot.

Located in uMhlanga, this restaurant is ideal for those who enjoy good food and drinks and is less suited for those who want to dance the night away.

One of the signature cocktails at 14 on Chartwell is the Sea Spray, which mixes eight-year-old Bacardi rum with fresh pineapple, citrus, and refreshing cucumber, resulting in a dry yet sweet drink that’s perfect for those who like to keep things simple.

If you’re looking for something more complex, the Fashioned cocktail blends D’Usse VSOP with salted caramel extracts and aromatic bitters, creating a subtle, smooth and delicate drink.

VIEWS At Twenty5. | Instagram

House of Artezian. | Supplied

TJING Tjing Rooftop Bar. | Instagram

AFRICA’S BEST STREET FOODS

STREET food is designed to fuel busy people who only have little pocket change and almost no time to spare.

In celebration of Africa Month, we take a look at the history of street food and Africa’s best street foods.

African street food is some of the best in the world. With over 50 countries on the continent, you will be able to find a variety of unique tastes and flavours.

Street food is a dish that is authentic to the culture it comes from. It is made and sold by locals, so when you eat street food, you are getting an immersive experience of the country and its people.

Street food is actually an ancient food: it originated in ancient Greece. Research reveals that way back then, Greek street food consisted of bits of fried fish sold from street vendors at all times of the day.

Its customer base was mainly the lower classes living within the confines of Rome. They favoured street food because their own homes did not come equipped with any means to prepare hot food for their families.

So, no ovens and no hearths meant residents would take to the streets and purchase fried fish from vendors.

Here is a taste of some of the most popular African street food to discover.

Bunny chow

The humble bunny chow is a staple, not only in Durban but across South Africa. It represents the fabric of South Africa’s rich and colourful heritage.

A bunny chow is made from a loaf of

LUTHO PASIYA

MOPANE WORMS

bread, used whole or cut in a quarter or half, with the inside scooped out and kept to dip in the gravy. The hollow loaf is then filled with delicious authentic Indian curry – made from lamb, mutton, chicken, beef, mince or vegetables.

Ugali

Ugali is also known as, nshima, sadza, papa or phuthu, depending on where you are in Africa. Everyone has their way of cooking it. The most common ingredients used are salt, maize meal, or cornmeal in boiling water. Nshima can be enjoyed with a side dish of your choice from eggs, meat, vegetables or anything that tickles your fancy.

Mozambican prawns

Mozambican prawns are one of the most popular dishes in the country, and they are grilled or fried and spiced with a fiery peri-peri sauce. They are served with either French fries or rice. A popular dish that has no Portuguese influence such as the chilli and peri-peri spices is matata: a seafood stew usually prepared with clams in a peanut sauce. Also popular are prego rolls (steak sandwiches) and peri-peri chicken: chicken marinated in lemon juice, garlic, and peri-peri sauce, usually eaten with potato fries.

Gatsby

Are you even a real Capetonian if you do not appreciate a good gatsby? The

PRAWNS

gatsby sandwich, perfect for sharing with friends, originated from Cape Town. It is a foot-long roll filled with chips, and add-ons range from chicken to beef, calamari or salami. For that extra flavour, you can add your preferred sauce.

Shawarma

Marinated and spit-roasted, shawarma is a delicious Middle Eastern meat treat whose origins can be traced back to the Ottoman Empire era, while its name stems from the Arabic pronunciation of the Turkish word çevirme (meaning to turn; turning), and refers to the rotating skewer on which the meat is cooked. Shawarmas are made with either lamb, turkey, chicken, beef, or a mix of different meats which are slow-cooked for hours and basted in their own juices and fat, gaining an incomparable succulence, but the real secret to a perfect shawarma is in the marinade.

Akara

Akara is a deep-fried bean cake made with ground beans mixed with pepper, onions and other spices. This tasty food is popular in Nigeria. It is light and protein-packed, making it the ideal snack. Akara

is best eaten with agege bread, which is popular for its soft texture and its versatility with different Nigerian dishes such as stew. Use peeled brown beans, ground and blended with onions and spices, to make akara and vegetables for deep frying.

Mopane worms

While the idea of eating insects provokes discomfort, Zimbabwe’s fried mopane worms have won the hearts of those who try them. Not only are they tasty, but they are also incredibly high in protein, iron and calcium, and their consumption is ecologically-friendly. Mopane worms are eaten fried with tomatoes, onions, chillies and peanuts.

Vetkoek

Vetkoek, literally meaning fat cake, is one of the most loved traditional dishes in South Africa. Vetkoek is something that is very popular in the townships, usually served with polony or cheese, or even better, both. It later progressed to inner cities due to the level of demand in areas around certain cities. While some people prefer buying, other people prefer making vetkoek themselves at their homes. Best relished hot.

SHAWARMA

BUNNY CHOW

Exploring the charm and character of small towns across SA

FROM vibrant cities to serene landscapes, South Africa showcases a kaleidoscope of cultures, traditions and natural wonders.

From bustling cities to quiet rural escapes, this country is a treasure trove of hidden gems.

Across every province, you’ll find charming little towns that are steeped in history and culture, offering the perfect escape from the fast-paced city life.

It’s time to embark on a journey and explore these enchanting towns, where you’ll encounter breathtaking landscapes, architectural marvels, and a tapestry of local traditions.

Join us as we delve into the heart of South Africa’s towns, where history and charm intertwine.

Greyton, Western Cape

There’s a reason why Greyton appeared on Real Housewives of Cape Town. Tucked away in the Riviersonderend Mountains, Greyton is a picturesque village known for its tranquillity, natural beauty and Victorian-style cottages. The moment you drive into the town you’ll notice the greenery and life within it.

Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts, you can explore the Greyton Nature Reserve with its scenic hiking trails. You can also enjoy mountain biking while admiring the beautifully manicured gardens.

If you happen to be there over the weekend, you can visit the Greyton Saturday market, which starts at 9am. Enjoy a meal at one of the cosy cafés, browse through local craft shops, or attend one of the community events, such as the Greyton Rose Fair.

Franschhoek, Western Cape

Franschhoek is known for its stunning vineyards, breathtaking scenery and rich French heritage.

Visitors can explore the numerous wine estates, indulge in delicious cuisine at top-notch restaurants, browse art galleries, and enjoy scenic hikes or bike rides in the surrounding mountains.

Greyton | Instagram

Silaka Nature Reserve. | Instagram

Kakamas Hotel. | Instagram

This town is for all wine enthusiasts and foodies. One particularly famous trend in Franschhoek is the wine tram, a combination of a tram and a bus, similar to the red bus experience. It covers 10 different wine routes that consist of 8 wine farms. You can get off and on at any farm you want.

Port St Johns, Eastern Cape

Located on the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape, Port St Johns is a charming coastal town renowned for its natural beauty. With its pristine beaches, rugged cliffs and lush forests, it offers a range of activities for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Visitors can enjoy hiking along scenic trails, exploring the stunning Silaka Nature Reserve, or embarking on boat cruises to admire the breathtaking coastal landscapes. Fishing enthusiasts can try their luck in the Mzimvubu River or on deep-sea fishing excursions. With its laid-back atmosphere, Port St. Johns provides a relaxing escape.

Hogsback, Eastern Cape

Hogsback, nestled in the Amathole Mountains, is a picturesque village known for its enchanting landscapes and mystical atmosphere. Surrounded by indigenous forests, cascading waterfalls, and rolling hills, it is a haven for nature enthusiasts and hikers. Visitors can embark on various hiking trails, visit the stunning Madonna and Child Waterfall, or immerse themselves in the magical atmosphere of the Arboretum Gardens.

The town’s association with JRR Tolkien, who found inspiration here for The Lord of the Rings trilogy, adds to its allure. Hogsback offers a tranquil and naturally beautiful escape for those seeking serenity.

Springbok – Gateway to Namaqualand

Springbok is a picturesque town in the Northern Cape, South Africa, known as the “Gateway to Namaqualand”. This charming town attracts visitors during the spring months when the Namaqualand region bursts into a vibrant display of wildflowers. Additionally, people are generally friendly and welcome visitors with open arms.

Visit the Klipkolk Hiking Trail for panoramic views of the surrounding countryside. The town also offers historical attractions, including the Springbok Museum and the Klipkolk Ghost Town. Taste traditional dishes like biltong and roosterkoek at local eateries. Springbok provides various accommodation options, including guest farms, self-catering cottages, and in recent years a hotel development.

Kakamas: Gateway to the Green Kalahari

A charming town nestled in the Northern Cape on the banks of the Orange River, Kakamas offers lush greenery and beautiful landscapes.

The Orange River Wine Route is a well-known attraction, where you can indulge in wine tastings and learn about the art of winemaking.

Nature enthusiasts will find plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Explore the Orange River by going on boat cruises, canoeing, or fishing. The river offers tranquil waters and stunning views, making it perfect for leisurely activities. For the more adventurous, the area offers hiking trails, 4x4 routes and mountain biking opportunities.

Immerse yourself in the local culture of Kakamas by visiting the Kakamas Museum. Discover the traditions and customs of the local communities, and perhaps even catch a glimpse of traditional Nama dances and music.

Visitors will find a range of accommodation options, from guest houses and lodges to camping sites and self-catering cottages. Don't miss the opportunity to savour delicious local cuisine, including traditional South African dishes.

FRANSCHOEK Wine tram. | Instagram

Springbok