South Africa's Undiscovered Gems

South Africa's Undiscovered Gems

It’s understandable that first time visitors to South Africa will want to visit Table Mountain or go on safari in the Kruger, however there is so much more to South Africa than these amazing experiences. Here are our favourite undiscovered gems that you should consider visiting the next time you decide to go on holiday to this extraordinary country.

Paternoster
If you want the very best seafood, a lush nature reserve and a tranquil seaside weekend, head North from Cape Town to Paternoster. One of the oldest fishing villages in South Africa, Paternoster is still virtually untouched by time – beautiful, bright blue sea and colourful fishing boats form the backdrop for the quaint houses lining the seafront. You can buy fish straight off the fishermen as they come in or enjoy the fresh catch in one of the amazing restaurants on the beach. There are plenty of pretty seaside towns dotted along South Africa’s coast – but nothing beats Paternoster’s antique beauty and colour.



De Hoop Nature Reserve
If you’re looking for unspoiled seascapes as well as expansive views of South Africa’s natural fynbos then De Hoop Nature Reserve is the place to visit. You’ll be able to see zebra, eland, ostrich, and other wildlife, as well as pink flamingos and other bird species that settle on the reserve’s 17km vlei . The beach at Koppie Alleen offers pristine white sand dunes and gorgeous sea views without the usual touristy feel. It’s a three hour drive from Cape Town but you’ll find many charming spots to visit along the way, so make a day of it!



The Eastern Cape
Often overlooked by visitors to South Africa, the Eastern Cape boasts beautiful unspoilt beaches, excellent surf, spectacular scenery, malaria-free game reserves featuring the Big 5 and a range of outdoor activities. The province was also the birthplace of Nelson Mandela and is also the home of the National Arts Festival, an important event on the South African cultural calendar, and the biggest annual celebration of the arts on the African continent.  



Madikwe Game Reserve
One of the lesser known wildlife areas of South Africa, the malaria-free Madikwe in the country's North West Province is a hidden gem that's well worth exploring. The Big 5 is well represented in the reserve and you are likely to spot lion, leopard, elephant, rhino or buffalo during your stay as well as over 300 species of birds. During your visit you will also have the rare privilege of possibly seeing the highly endangered African Wild Dog who were introduced to the park in 1994.



KwaZulu-Natal
Like the Eastern Cape, KwaZulu-Natal or KZN as it's affectionately known is often overlooked by visitors to South Africa in favour of the bright lights of Cape Town or the wildlife of the Kruger. The province is home to two World Heritage sites - the mountainous uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park & the iSimangaliso (Greater St Lucia) Wetland Park, as well as to some of the best Big 5 game reserves, including the country’s oldest, the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Add in to the mix historic Battlefields, a subtropical climate, unspoilt beaches and rich Zulu & Indian cultures, and you have a truly irresistible destination.



If you interested in visiting any of South Africa’s undiscovered gems for yourself then get in touch with our experts by calling 020 7843 3500 or emailing info@africatravel.co.uk