Before you call us out on it, yes, it's true… We are South African. So, surely we'd be biased in our bold and beautiful statement to claim that our country is every bit unique? Well, honey, take our hand and let's show you a whole new world featuring only 10 of our many unique places in South Africa you have to see to believe…
Make memories in the most unique places in South Africa
Oh, How Wild, How Fabulously Free You'll Feel
If you've been to South Africa before, you can back us up when we say the diversity in all things is just baffling. There's a reason it's often referred to as "The World in One Country"! A quick road trip can unfold into a series of stark contrasts, each as unique as the one before. But here we go. Here are the ones you simply must know about…
1. One-of-a-Kind Tswalu Private Game Reserve
Located on the southernmost end of the Kalahari, it's a harsh environment that somehow thrives. Think rolling red dunes punctuated by lush shrubs, saturated sunsets so bold it will look like a real-life filter, and the most curious scarce species like the aardvark, pangolin, black-maned lion, desert-adapted black rhino and more. And not to mention the adorable meerkats scurrying about and entertaining you with their antics.
Oh, and the cherry on top? The fabulous Chef Jan Hendrik van der Westhuizen's Klein JAN restaurant is here. This fellow LGBTQ+ member is renowned for being the first South African chef to get a Michelin star, which he got for his other restaurant called JAN in France.
Why it's fabulous
- There are so many unbelievable species, some very rare and in a remarkably unique setting
- Located in a malaria-free region, making it a great safari option for families with kids, the elderly, or pregnant travellers
- Tailored itineraries mean you're fully in control of your day
- With exclusive-use luxury accommodation, you don't have to share and will have plenty of privacy
Who'll love it
All earth and animal lovers, couples seeking a romantic hideout, and families looking for something that's not your standard cookie-cutter family holiday.
Tswalu has mysteries all around, waiting to be uncovered
2. Wild and Free Coffee Bay Coastline
Oh, sweetie, hold onto your fabulous sun hat, for Coffee Bay in the Eastern Cape packs more of a punch than your double-shot morning cuppa. Picture virgin beaches silky to the touch, balmy waves gently lapping at its shoreline, and the lushest green rolling hills dotted with free-grazing cows.
It pretty much looks like a scene from ol' Leo DiCaprio's "The Beach" movie… And who knows, maybe you'll stumble upon your own handsome Leo there? Play in the water, whether it's surfing, kayaking, snorkelling, swimming, diving… it's a watery wonderland. You can also go on cultural excursions to learn more about the local Zulu culture.
Why it's fabulous
- It's the birthplace of Nelson Mandela and rich in culture
- The warm Indian Ocean waters invite you to enjoy so many watersports
- Rich in many natural wonders like the Hole in the Wall, Mdumbi, and Mapuzi to ooh and aah over
- You can feast on yummy fresh seafood available all around
Who'll love it
A fantastic destination for the active, adventurous and water babies.
Hole in the Wall, a signature sight in Coffee Bay
3. Flower Fields Forever in West Coast National Park
Put a flower in your hair and spin around like you just don't care! Well, honey bun, indulge your inner child with a trip to the West Coast National Park during its beautiful flower season.
Every spring between August and September, its fields come alive with a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, luring influencers, couples, families and the lot to capture their annual portraits. And boy, what a bloomingly pretty picture it is each time! Plus, between August and October, the whales also make their debut, making this a splendid time to see the best of land and sea.
Why it's fabulous
- Well, you had us at "flowers" (and "whales"!)
- Birdwatching is also spectacular in this area
- Enjoy the spring weather on a hike at the many trails
- Preekstoel is the number one influencer hangout spot, so make sure to get your photo posed in front of this unique rock formation
Who'll love it
Young and old, and especially anyone with a true passion for Mother Nature.
Imagine the Instagram photos you can take amidst these blooms
4. Ultimate Road Trip of Wows at Route 62
We hope you've got a playlist ready for the ultimate road trip that awaits in South Africa on Route 62! Every turn is filled with scenic scenes, quaint towns, wine and fruit farms, and more. Starting near Cape Town in the Western Cape, you'll keep driving until you reach Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) in the Eastern Cape.
For the ultimate refuel pit stops, you'll love the farm stalls and delicious eateries along the way. Reminiscent of the famous Route 66 in the United States yet uniquely South African, it's a must if you love exploring and sightseeing.
Why it's fabulous
- It's aggreat add-on to your Cape Town and Garden Route trip
- Absolutely stunning and ever-changing landscapes keep you in awe for the entire road trip
- There are plenty of places to stretch your legs and indulge in local treats, drinks, and arts and crafts at the many wine farms, farm stalls, galleries and restaurants
- Flora and fauna galore with over 500 succulent species
Who'll love it
If you prefer to take things slow and enjoy the little things, then skip the plane and drive this spectacular route instead! It's a great way to travel between Cape Town and the Eastern Cape. A great option for couples or families looking for an adventure and some quality time.
Follow the Route 62 road…
5. Drop-Dead-Gorgeous Drakensberg
Feel like you're lost in a Lord of the Rings novel in the mesmerising Drakensberg mountains. Surrounded by surreal folds of lush mountains, the name "Drakensberg" will make more sense. Meaning "Dragon Mountains" in the local South African language, Afrikaans, it does evoke a feeling of being in a fantasy world where dragons could very well call it home.
It's the highest mountain range in South Africa and a World Heritage Site, offering excellent hiking trails to give you a super immersive experience. Cool off in the winding rivers and magical waterfalls, and enjoy activities like tubing, kayaking, river rafting, and more.
Why it's fabulous
- Unbelievable sights straight out of a fairytale
- Not only is it the highest mountain range in South Africa, but it's also home to the second-largest waterfall in the world, Tugela Falls
- Ideal for hikers and nature lovers with outdoor activities all around
- You can see the biggest rock art collection and unique flora and fauna here
Who'll love it
Active nature lovers who love playing outdoors.
Oh, the depth and drama of the Drakensberg Mountains!
6. At the Tip of the World in Cape Agulhas
When you look at the map of Africa, you'll see that little tippy point. Well, that's where you'll find Cape Agulhas, the southernmost point of our continent! It's also where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Now that's pretty fab!
Feel like you're standing at the edge of the world as you look out at the crashing waves, and be sure to visit the iconic Cape Agulhas lighthouse. A small seaside town, the area has cute shops and restaurants, as well as excellent beaches in nearby Struisbaai, about a 10-minute drive away.
Why it's fabulous
- It's a bucket list experience to say you stood at the tip of Africa where the two oceans meet
- There are some great beaches and fishing spots nearby
- We love the atmosphere in this seaside town, with various little stores and restaurants
- You can also enjoy some diving, snorkelling, boat rides, and more
Who'll love it
Anyone who wants to tick it off their bucket list, or families and groups of friends wanting a more stripped-back seaside escape.
Stand at the tippy point of Africa, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet
7. Safari Soap Operas in Kruger National Park
Oh, Kruger. Where do we even start? We've had a burning passion for this safari mecca, and the love affair is yet to become stale! So, even after seeing it so many times, we keep returning. And you know what? Each time is so wildly different! The cast of wildlife always have a new show to perform, making it super entertaining.
And if you've been to Kruger before but haven't experienced the private game reserves like Sabi Sand, you're in for a real treat. Sharing an unfenced border with Kruger, the wildlife roam freely as they please. And, you get experiences you don't get there. For example, night safaris, bush walks, driving off-road to get a closer look, and so much more. And with limited guests and game-drive vehicles allowed at a time, it's uber-exclusive!
Why it's fabulous
- It's South Africa's top safari destination
- The private game reserves like Sabi Sand have the best luxury safari lodges
- There is a bafflingly wide variety of wildlife and plant species
- You'll never get bored here, with anything from game drives, walking safaris, horseback safaris, photo safaris, spa treatments, sleeping out under the stars, and more
Who'll love it
Anyone and everyone who loves safaris! And even those who don't yet know they do, Kruger will make you fall in love with it, too. It's also a very popular honeymoon destination and great for groups of friends or families travelling together.
Meet Kruger's most majestic wildlife up close and personal
8. We're All About Those Quiver Trees in Gannabos
Wish you could go off the grid for a couple of days? Say hello to Gannabos! As unique as its name sounds, it's located in Nieuwoudtville, a small town in the Northern Province of South Africa.
Its signature attraction is its quiver tree forest, the largest in the world! Now, that surely makes it not only one of the most unique places in South Africa but on our planet. And because this destination is so far-flung from pollution and city lights, stargazing is, well, out of this world! You should also add the Hantam Botanical Garden and Oorlogskloof Nature Reserve to your list of attractions to see while here.
Why it's fabulous
- It has the biggest quiver tree forest in the world
- You'll have incredible stargazing views at night
- It's the perfect place for a digital detox
- Gannabos is part of the Rondekop/Naresie wildflower route, which makes it a must for photographers, especially when in season
Who'll love it
A dreamy setting for nature enthusiasts, hikers, photographers, and just anyone who appreciates R&R in a unique setting.
Gannabos is one of the most unique places in South Africa
9. Heavenly Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Valley
"Oh, heaven is a place on Earth!" You'll be singing this Belinda Carlisle tune all day long as you gawk at the idyllic vineyard carpets drenched in honey sunlight. Located in Walker Bay, on the way to Hermanus, the Hemel-en-Aarde Wine Valley means "Heaven and Earth", and it's an apt description!
And, darling, if you appreciate a fine vino, you'll certainly be in heaven here as it's renowned for its top award-winning wines. It's particularly known for producing special chardonnays and pinot noir cultivars. Just make sure you set aside enough time for wine tasting, as you have a full 15 to get through! Bonus: the nearby coastline promises fun in the sun on the beach, and between July and November, you can enjoy whale watching.
Why you'll love it
- There's an outstanding selection of wines to enjoy from 15 wineries
- Peruse the art galleries in the area, like Lembu Gallery and Studio, which is in an old fisherman's cottage
- As South Africa's pinot noir capital, you can attend the annual Pinot Noir Day on 18 August, an event not to be missed
- When it's whale season, watch them breach and play from the Cliff Path in Hermanus
Who's it for
Anyone who appreciates wines, art, and nature.
Where Heaven meets Earth, Image Credit: Stonehaven
10. City of Juxtaposition Cape Town
The last one is our home! So, again, you might think we're biased. However, we're not basing it just on our deep love for our Mother City. Nope, we also know from experience that it's one of our guests' top destinations during their stays in South Africa. A quick Google search will reinforce this, as our home city has been repeatedly voted the best in the world to visit. Did we mention it's also the gay capital of South Africa? Get ready for fabulous fun, hun!
But what makes it so baffling is its unique mix of the flat-topped Table Mountain and surrounding mountain ranges, framed by ocean and powdery white beaches, vineyards and cityscapes in between. Trust us, you'll love it! Just remember to bring your camera.
Why you'll love it
- There are plenty of gay-friendly and gay-only bars, clubs and restaurants and the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront is a must-visit
- Stay in style at the wide range of ultra-luxurious accommodation with sea, mountain and city views
- If you love that endorphin rush, there are plenty of adrenaline-fueled activities like paragliding, watersports, and more
- So many stunning hiking trails to explore, art galleries, cultural excursions, and wine farms to visit
Who's it for
Cape Town has something for everyone!
Come play in gay-friendly Cape Town!
Let's Show You a Whole New World in Africa
Which destinations caught your eye? All of them? Well, let's tailor the perfect holiday featuring the most unique places in South Africa.
Our LGBTQ+ Travel Experts know Africa inside out and can't wait to tailor your gay-friendly holiday! Contact us today, and let's start planning.
