Exploring the out-of-the-way spaces and places that are yet to be annexed by tourists and their ilk is not tough in South Africa. There are so many things to explore and visit that would surprise you.
In South Africa, you can find many non-touristy things to do that require a casual approach. You do not have to wait for your turn.
Offbeat Things to Do In South Africa
1. Hike in Grootvadersbosch & Boosmansbos Reserve
This is an unexplored place as not many South Africans know about the Grootvadersbosch Nature Reserve. It is quite possible that you will not find any crowd at this place when you visit out of season.
This is one of the most popular non-touristy things to do in South Africa. It has beautiful paths better than a hike along paths through the indigenous forest in the Langeberg. This is not a big reserve but shares borders with Boosmansbos Wilderness, a UNESCO World Heritage Site which is just 70 km of unmarked trails.
2. Experience the Aukoerebis or ‘place of noise’
In the rainy season, when the Gariep River is in full flood, the Augrabies Falls creates a gigantic crashing sound, something like the sea, when it hits the rocks with a ferocious vengeance.
The river rushes toward the narrow gorge at a rapid rate. You can view at sunrise or sunset and this sight will look just spectacular. Also, beyond the gorge are back roads that head toward Jacques Marais, ‘into an extra-terrestrial melee of rock and dust and Tim Burton botany’ making this place more picturesque.
3. Attend the Easter passion play in Lady Grey
Lady Grey is a nice, historical rural town in the foothills of the Witteberg Mountains on the border between the Eastern Cape – close to the border with Lesotho and Free State.
It’s not much visited by tourists as it is way off the average tourist’s route. It can be a great, peaceful and lonely destination when it comes to non-touristy spots in South Africa. You can capture the true religious character of Easter that takes place in the streets and environs of Lady Grey, so book your accommodation before time.
4. Watch the Whales on Deserted Beach
You can also watch the whales here at De Hoop Nature Reserve, which is one of the most beautiful places along the Whale Coast for coastline whale watching. This World Heritage Site has fynbos (ericas, proteas, restios and heather), a Ramsar listed wetland, and a series of momentous dunes between you and the beach.
Due to the beach, this reserve becomes one of the favorite places for people looking for a non-touristy place to visit in the country. You can spend a weekend out of school holidays. Lie here and watch whole pods of whales offshore, their giant fins, tails, and spray that are the only sign that they’re there.
5. Drive to the Highest Mountain Passes in South Africa
This is also an amazing and thrilling non-touristy thing to do in South Africa when you ascend the magnificent Drakensberg Mountain on a series of zig-zag curves of the Sani Pass. This is also termed as the ‘roof of Africa’ which offers a view from 3200 meters above sea level making it nothing short of spectacular.
It is a steep rough track with hairpin bends, sightings of snow-covered mountain tops, and tight switchbacks when you drive it in the colder months, and there is plenty of pullover spots for photos.
Synopsis
So, are you planning a trip to visiting some offbeat destinations in South Africa? Better to try out the above things and you will be amazed to experience its thrill, tranquility and soulful time.
