The 10 Best Outdoor Activities in South Africa, South Africa

August 11, 2021 Roger Rusk

in the African Union  (light blue)
Restaurants in South Africa

1. Chapman's Peak Drive

Hout Bay Road Between Noordhoek and Hout Bay, 7872 South Africa +27 21 791 8220 http://www.chapmanspeakdrive.co.za/
Excellent
82%
Good
15%
Satisfactory
2%
Poor
0%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1,126 reviews

Chapman's Peak Drive

Chapman’s Peak Drive toll road winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay on the Atlantic Coast on the south-western tip of South Africa. Chapman’s Peak Drive is one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world. Chapman’s Peak Drive is affectionately known as #Chappies.

Reviewed By Loolew - Nice, France

The drive takes you up the side of Chapman's Peak. It's well secured from falling rocks now. The view of Hout Bay Karbonkelberg and round the corner, Noordhoek and it's beach are just stunning. Don't miss it

2. Klipkraal Hiking Trail

Near Heidelberg, Gauteng South Africa +27 16 372 1432 http://www.footprint.co.za/klipkraal.htm
Excellent
100%
Good
0%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 1 reviews

Klipkraal Hiking Trail

3. Wolhuter Wilderness Trail

Berg-en-Dal, Kruger National Park 6560 South Africa http://www.krugerpark.co.za/Specialist_Safari_Tours-travel/wilderness-trails-kruger.html
Excellent
88%
Good
10%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
2%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 52 reviews

Wolhuter Wilderness Trail

Reviewed By AfricaLinx - Pretoria, South Africa

40mins drive from Berg en Dal in southern Kruger Park is the base camp for the Wolhuter Trail. The A frame huts sleeps 2 under thatch. Not spacious with thatch roof and mesh windows. A short walk to the shower with hot water and seperate flush toilet. The camp is shaded with large trees and the waterhole next to the camp will attrack some wildlife in dry season. Our visit was in the peak of an extraordinary rain season. The bush was bursting with energy and water in obscene abundance. Every stream was flowing and dams were full. Stephen, our guide took us along the streams, game viewing was a challenge but the lush bush and water made up for that. We select to swop the afternoon walk for a game drive exploring the valleys and rivers in the area. Afternoon sundowners was at the Stollsnek Dam where we shared the sunset with hippos, elephants, buffalo, fish eagle and many more. Great experience in the bush, supported by our guide Stephen that shared 20yrs of stories from ranger experience.

4. Cumberland Nature Reserve

D408 Table Mountain Road Table Mountain Road, Pietermaritzburg 3201 South Africa
Excellent
95%
Good
5%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 74 reviews

Cumberland Nature Reserve

Cumberland Nature Reserve is a Nature Lovers Paradise. Over 300 bird species, 30 + mammal species and over 300 species of wild flower call Cumberland their home. Well maintained hiking trails traverse the entire Reserve allowing one to explore all the different habitats and make the most of the jaw-dropping scenery. The Reserve offers the ultimate escape into Nature through overnight stays in a variety of secluded self-catering accommodation as well as two private campsites.

Reviewed By MosieMo56

Cumberland Nature Reserve is a hidden gem. It is my 'Go To' place when I need Bush Away Time .... time to replenish my soul and to breathe. Over the past years I have paid many visits to this little spot of paradise often taking photos of all things nature and other times, just sitting at a perfectly kept picnic spot enjoying all nature has to offer. All picnic spots are well kept and the ablutions are spotlessly clean. Horseshoe Cottage was a perfect spot for a birthday weekend and from there we explored many tracks, trails and rocks looking for snakes, scorpions, butterflies and a host of other insects and things! The birdlife at Cumberland is amazing. Naturally the animals are a drawcard too and it is always great seeing their excellent condition. Aloe season is a delight and not to be missed! Cumberland deserves to be explored! One of my most favourite hideaways.

5. Sable Ranch Hiking Trail

R96, Magaliesburg 1791 South Africa +27 79 896 7374 https://www.facebook.com/Sablehikingtrail/b
Excellent
78%
Good
22%
Satisfactory
0%
Poor
0%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

5.0 based on 9 reviews

Sable Ranch Hiking Trail

Sable Ranch is situated just off the R96 close to Hekpoort in the Magaliesburg mountain region. Only approximately 80km (1Hour) away from Johannesburg makes this trail an easy reach for the entire family to enjoy a day out in Mother Nature. The trail is open on weekends and public holidays and you can hike at very reasonable tariffs. it is R70pp and R30 for children. Sable Ranch

Reviewed By RomyVee

Our hiking weekend away was to put to rest, COVID 19, and all the stress it comes with, so we decided on some time away. I came across Sable Ranch overnight accommodation and immediately WhatsApp the number. I received the quickest response with information and pictures. Booked and confirmed with a deposit for a few weeks ahead and had to postpone due to unforeseen circumstances, Marilie was quick to respond and said no problem we will gladly accommodate you on another date.  It's a perfect place and caters for couples but when I mentioned family, Marilie gladly made arrangements for my kids to be comfortable, even though it's not a place for kids.  We arrived at this beautiful place, everything her pictures showed us with soothing views of blissful peace and nature's perfection matched perfectly. Marilie was at our room, warm and welcoming, she said she is available anytime if we need anything at all. She gave us information about the food and entertainment, especially for the kids and we took every bit of it and really enjoyed the day. My scent of smell is so sensitive and the first thing I sniff is the beddings and towels when I'm away and when I did that this time, I smelt the freshness and cleanliness, I felt comfortable, it felt home. I could lay my head down for a peaceful night's sleep. The amount of the accommodation including hiking, we went hiking in their property across the street called Noble Village, this hike was our most challenging hike as a family since starting our new hobby, my oh my, top of the mountains was the most glorious views, I've ever seen in our Country, with the sounds of quad bikes and then a few 4x4 on their trails, it was exhilarating. We sat down at Noble Village Restaurant and had a quick bite to eat, a meaty pizza that had enough meat to satisfy my carnivore family...LOL Noble Village has so much to offer for families, my kids loved it. Coming from the person that never liked the outdoors all her life, this place and its traits were amazing, to take me by the heart and fall in love with nature and all of her beauty. You want adventure, some challenging hikes and a serene place to kick of your shoes and watch the sunset, I strongly recommend this gem, Sable Ranch Hiking Trail & Overnight Accommodation together with Noble Village, across the street, Look no further!

6. Swartberg Pass

192 Buitekant Street, Oudtshoorn 6625 South Africa +27 82 461 8253 http://www.truesouthtravel.co.za.
Excellent
78%
Good
18%
Satisfactory
3%
Poor
1%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 1,633 reviews

Swartberg Pass

Reviewed By Curiosity28698317309 - Cape Town Central, South Africa

True! one of South Africa’s most beautiful mountain passes, once entering from Prince Albert side you enter into a majestic red Canyon inspired by amazing layered strata and majestic Mountain View’s. As you travel along this well maintained gravel road you ascend into the clouds and look down over a gorgeous scenic, fertile valley below. Along the way stop for your favorite cup of aromatic coffee to take in the fresh mountain zephyrs and watch the ever changing cloud formations as they dance along the mountain tops and pour through the valley openings. Have a farm breakfast at Kobus se gat or stop to view the local talents of Rogers art and photography gallery, where you can enjoy a latte while you watch the swallows build their mud homes beneath the eves of this historical building. A must for sight seers or the avid adventurer.

7. Umhlanga Main Beach

Umhlanga Rocks South Africa
Excellent
55%
Good
35%
Satisfactory
8%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 945 reviews

Umhlanga Main Beach

Reviewed By nomxolisi2016

I always have a beautiful peaceful time in Umhlanga beach.The beach is clean,not overly crowded,clean restrooms and showers,friendly staff,restuarants on cite,visible and attentive lifeguards.Even though the weather was a bit disappointing the experience at the beach always make you want to come back again.

8. Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

Simon's Town 7995 South Africa +27 21 786 2329 [email protected] http://www.capepointroute.co.za/moreinfoOther.php?aID=110
Excellent
59%
Good
30%
Satisfactory
9%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 8,291 reviews

Boulders Beach Penguin Colony

The sheltered inlet of Boulders Beach is located in the Cape peninsula near Simon's Town. Here exists a protected colony of African penguins which can be viewed in their natural habitat via wooden walkways. There is also an excellent beach for swimming nearby.

Reviewed By NazleeM_13 - Haverhill, United Kingdom

This protected beach is one of the main tourist attraction in Cape Town. A few minutes walk from the main Simon’s Town, you can watch and take photo of these cute creatures in their natural habitat. In a windy day, the beach sands can be very uncomfortable to your eyes and hair though!

9. St. Blaize Trail

Mossel Bay South Africa http://www.visitmosselbay.co.za
Excellent
59%
Good
35%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
2%
Terrible
0%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 254 reviews

St. Blaize Trail

Reviewed By JPS594 - Mossel Bay, South Africa

We walked this trail at least once a week. If in the Mossel bay area, its a must do. You can decide how far you want to go, but comfortable walking shoes, water and a hat is necessary. Not for totally unfit walkkers or small children. Pinnacle clubhouse is about half way to Dana bay. You can alsa stop your walk there. Good facilities at the clubhouse. For advice phone +27828039342

10. Sani Pass

South Africa +2786112182 http://www.choc.org.za/sani-pass.html
Excellent
68%
Good
26%
Satisfactory
4%
Poor
1%
Terrible
1%
Overall Ratings

4.5 based on 638 reviews

Sani Pass

Reviewed By shauns2111 - South Africa, null

A stunning drive. Luckely the weather was good all the way. Went up the Saturday, stayed over, and drove down the next. Currently there are roadworks leading from the bottom up to the SA border post. But thereafter still just plain gravel road. Initially the road starts off fair, with a couple of rough patches. But leading towards the steps, and the steps themselves are 4x4 low. Do not think someone with no 4x4 experiance should drive it. Coming downs, steep decents with heavy switchbacks. Be on the lookout for other vehicles. Sometimes find a sport to pull over to let someone pass. Take it slow. Definatelly worth the trip.

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