Most South Africans when they think of a short-term trip, think about destinations outside of the country. What many people don't know is that South Africa has a great deal to offer within its borders too!
There are various tourist destinations throughout this incredible country that can be explored over the course of a weekend, without having to spend all your spending money on flight tickets. Allianz Travel has compiled a list of weekend getaways in Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Durban.
Dubbed as ‘South Africa’s little England’, Greyton has gorgeous oak-lined lanes with tiny country cottages. Grab yourself a bike or set off on foot and take in some of the wonderful views of the Sonderend Mountains. Make sure you bring your bathing suit, as there are some beautiful beaches in the area. If the cold is more your thing, there are plenty of restaurants to choose from for a cozy dinner.
Greyton is just a 1hr and 45min drive from Cape Town, and a great spot for a short break outside of the mother city.
Franschhoek is a foodie’s dream. There are endless options of restaurants that serve up some great French cuisine with a South African twist, as well as many chocolate and olive oil tasting opportunities. Franschhoek is one of the oldest towns in the Republic of South Africa. It is also one of the most popular weekend getaways in South Africa at just over a 1hr and 45min drive from Cape Town.
The Cederberg is renowned for its high-quality rock-climbing routes. This mountain range, which is also home to South Africa’s only true desert, has so much more to offer the rest of us though. The Cederberg Wilderness Area is a completely protected area that guarantees some stunning landscapes and great hiking trails with camping along the way. There is also an observatory for viewing the perfect night skies.
The Cederberg is about 290km away from Cape Town. Even though the area is very popular for weekend getaways, it still remains to be one of South Africa’s best-kept secrets.
The name Parys comes from the French version of Paris, and the town even has its own Eiffel Tower, albeit a rather tiny one! This town has art galleries, antique stores, coffee shops, and lively pubs to keep you occupied all weekend long.
The world's second-oldest verified meteorite impact crater, Vredefort Dome, is located in the town of Parys. It is believed to be about 2.023 billion years old!
The picturesque hamlet of Groot Marico is located just a 2-hour 30-minute drive northwest of Johannesburg. Herman Charles Bosman, South Arica's best short-story writer, made it famous. This town has lots to offer weekenders, including a great nature reserve, Magaliesberg Mountain Range.
Feel disconnected from society and mundane routines and relax in the Waterberg game reserve, whether it's with a camera, on horseback, or from a bubble bath (seriously!). Waterberg offers a true African getaway and consists of an enormous, semi-arid plateau with both natural and cultural attractions.
If you're looking for somewhere to relax and unwind, the coastal town of Hibberdene is about a 1-hour drive from Durban! It's also an attractive destination to visit while lounging on one of the numerous beaches. Local tourists love to visit this town for its many diving, snorkeling, and swimming hotspots.
This weekender's favorite is perfect for anyone who loves to explore the great outdoors! There are many places in the Swartberg where you can check out interesting rock formations, see animals roaming free, or just have a picnic! The Swartberg Pass actually consists of a historic trade route that allows you to drive through three mountain passes. Its beauty alone makes it worth the weekend trip!
Many people aim to visit other countries during vacations and getaways, but most don't even realize the beauty of their home country and what it has to offer at a much cheaper price. Along with offering quality
travel insurance for South Afrians aborad, we at Allianz Travel want to ensure that you enjoy the beautiful country of South Africa, one getaway weekend at a time.
