South African attractions which define our heritage
“South Africa is the most beautiful place on Earth.
Admittedly, I am biased but when you combine the natural beauty…
And the fact that the region is a haven for Africa’s most splendid wildlife…
Then I think that we have been blessed with a truly wonderful land.”
-Nelson Mandela
On September 24, South Africa celebrated Heritage Day. A day to celebrate our diversity, our vast array of cultures that we South Africans are most proud of. One of the many qualities which make our beloved country unique. Our country is a beautiful, majestic place with many sites to see.
One of the best ways to view these sites is by taking a road trip around South Africa, a long-distance journey through vineyards, beaches, national parks and a place called “Gods Window”.
Here are just some of the best places you should see. Let us guide you, to help you start planning that road trip around South Africa. 9 stops in 9 provinces, what could be easier?
Gauteng
The cradle of humankind is a World Heritage site where you will find Sterkfontein Caves where the world famous “Mrs. Ples” wad found and many other fossils. For an educational tour, Maropeng Visitor Centre is a world -class exhibition which focuses on the development of humans over millions of years, taking you back to discover the formation of the universe and our world has evolved through time.
Pretorias Historical Monuments are also great places to see in Gauteng. There are a few of many places to mention such as National Zoological Gardens, Moreleta Kloof Nature Reserve and quite a few museums. If you are ever travelling during Spring, you’ll even get to see the Jacarandas blooming.
North West
Travelling west of South Africa, there is a Game Reserve where you’ll get to see the Big Five and home to over 360 bird species. Pilanesberg National Park also offers camp sites, lodges and is about 18.4 km away from the famous entertainment complex, Sun City.
Northern Cape
Predator watching and seasonal movement of large herbivores are just some of the attractions at Kgalagadi Transfonteir Park. First formally declared trans-border park, situated in Northern Cape and Botswana characterized by dry dune and dry rivers. One of the most conserved areas consisting of large ecosystems relatively free from human interaction.
Western Cape
There are many places to see in Western Cape, Robben Island, Table Mountain, Boulders Penguin Colony and Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point in South Africa. One of our favorites would have to be the southwestern point of the South Africa continent, Cape Point. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site home to over 250 species of bird life and a part of the Cape Floral Region, some of the richest flora. Getting to Cape Point means you’ll still be able to able to visit many of the afore-mentioned spots in this region. Travelling out of this beautiful place, it is recommended to take the Garden Route. Robberg Nature Reserve, Birds of Eden, Monkeyland, the world’s highest commercial bungy- Bloukrans Bungy and the magnificent Knysna Heads are stops to see along this stunning route.
Eastern Cape
Inkwenkwezi Private Game Reserve is one of the few reserves to have a tidal estuary (a semi-enclosed coastal body with a free connection to open sea). A variety of antelope, giraffes, zebras, the Big Five and indigenous trees for you to view from your own viewing deck at your chosen camp. Not to forget, it is only 6 minutes away from the breath-taking coastline and beautiful beaches of Wild Coast.
Kwa-Zulu Natal
The list of must-see places in Kwa-Zulu Natal is endless. From Moses Mabida Stadium, UShaka Marine World to Durban’s Golden Mile, Sodwana Bay for diving and Isimangaliso Wetland Park-the largest wetland in Southern Africa, where you will find long sandy beaches and scenic vistas. Ukamhlamba Drakensberg Park, however, offers scenic beauty and a spiritual atmosphere. The Park has a rich wildlife sanctuary, protecting rare and endangered animals and plants. The largest Bushmen paintings (San Rock Art). A great place to hiking, swimming and immerse yourself in scenic walks.
Free State
Home to a variety of mammals such as Zebras, Elands, Wildebeest, Springbok, and the rare, bearded vulture. Golden Gate National derives its name from the gold cast of the sun on its sandstone cliffs and Brandwag Rock. About a 3-hour drive from the park, you’ll find Free State Botanical park you would prefer to see 70 hectares of over 400 species of plants, 140 bird species, 54 reptile species and 32 mammal species. The Park and the Garden are both beautiful places to visit, offering tranquility and peace. It would just depend on where you would prefer to go, or you can see both!
Mpumalanga
Did you know, South Africa has it own canyon? Cleverly named Gods Window located in Blyde River Canyon has the most spectacular panoramic view of waterfalls, rock formations and the canyon. There is also a Private Game Reserve which has made the area one of the South Africa’s main wildlife destinations. Gods Window forms a small part of the of the canyon but should definitely be one of the reasons why this region is nicknamed “Paradise Country”.
Limpopo
For those in search of serenity, Mapungubwe National Park is the place for you to go. Discover an ancient kingdom, where Southern Africa’s first established in 1200 AD-1290 AD, once home to a powerful tribe who flourished on trading. Mapungubwe National Park offers wonderful accommodation with cell phone reception, the perfect place to go away from a busy lifestyle enjoying the outdoors and finding yourself again.
There are definitely more than 9 places we recommended you visit in South Africa but there is just so much to see and to love about, in this beautiful country. We are unique in every way. Now that you have taken this little tour with us, go ahead and start planning your big adventure! There is no better time than the present.
“There is no passion to be found playing small-
In settling for life that is less than the one
You are capable of living”
-Nelson Mandela