5 Adventurous Activities You Didn’t Know You Could Do in South Africa

While most people travel to South Africa with the hopes of embarking on a quintessential safari or taking in the metropolitan landscape of Cape Town, there is so much more to do in this international hotspot. In addition to the usual tourist activities, you’ll find a host of adventurous activities and sites to see. From exciting outdoor recreational activities to taking in the stunning scenery of this special corner of the world, here are our top activities and things to do in South Africa!

Try Surfing

Regardless of your skill level, there’s no doubt that South Africa is a great place to go surfing. The miles of coastline offer countless surfing destinations that deliver a variety of conditions. Some of the most popular spots to catch a wave include Jeffery’s Bay near Port Elizabeth, Long Beach, and Big Bay. If you’re a beginner, you would be wise to check out Durban with its warm water and consistent wave action. Before you hop cheap last minute flights to South Africa, do some research on the kinds of beaches or surfing lessons that would be best for you. With both the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean at your disposal, you’re sure to find the perfect surfing spot for your needs.

Hike Table Mountain

As one of the most distinctive landmarks in South Africa, you’re not going to want to miss taking a picture of Table Mountain. Although you can certainly spot the iconic mountain from Cape Town, it’s a much better experience to visit it up close and personal so you can take in its true beauty. A trip to Table Mountain is the perfect half-day excursion from Cape Town when you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city. Visitors can either climb the mountain or take the aerial cableway to the top. Most people can complete the round-trip hike in about three hours. Once you’re at the top of Table Mountain, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the city and the ocean in the distance.

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See African Penguins

No list of things to do in South Africa is complete without visiting the iconic Africa Penguins that call the beaches of this country home. Although this animal may seem out of place in Africa, these particular penguins have adapted to the warm climate of the region. You can find penguins at a number of beaches, however, Boulders Beach is the easiest place to check them out. The penguins at Boulders Beach are used to humans, so you’ll be able to see them up close. You’ll find thousands of African penguins at the Boulders Penguin Colony, which offers up many opportunities to see these cute critters.

Take a Trip to Cape Winelands

Move over, Napa Valley. South Africa is quickly becoming one of the world’s premier wine-tasting destinations. The Cape Winelands has distinguished itself as a prime destination for wine aficionados looking to try some of the best varietals that come out of South Africa. Located about two hours from Cape Town, you can choose to tour this region as a quick day trip from the city or make a weekend out of it. While you’re in the Cape Winelands, you’ll find a variety of restaurants and vineyards that speak to every taste and preference. In all, you’ll come away with a better understanding of the wine-making process in this corner of the world.

Travel the Garden Route

Take in the diverse natural beauty of South Africa with a road trip along the famous Garden Route. This coastal road positioned on the southwestern tip of the country between the Indian Ocean and the Tsitsikamma and Outeniqua mountain ranges takes you through mountains, lush forests, beaches, and diverse vegetation. And, it stretches for almost 300 kilometers! As you journey on the route, go and explore the beaches, take a whale-watching tour, play a round of golf, or check out the caves that dot the landscape of the region. You can either complete the drive in one day or take your time by creating an itinerary that hits the most popular activities along the way.

What other fun activities are there to do in South Africa? Tell us all about it in the comments below!