Need a holiday from the holidays? Generally, this time of year can be draining for some – the combination of ‘dry January’ and a depleted social battery can often lead to feeling like you just need another break. A second December, if you will.
While an international trip may be off the cards right now, the prospect of a long weekend away somewhere remote but still local doesn’t seem like a bad idea. Pack your gear, grab a co-pilot who won’t drive you up the walls, and get going!
Here’s all the travel inspiration you need for your next remote getaway in South Africa:
Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve
Dubbed one of the most remote and beautiful places in the world by Big 7 Travel, Bushmans Kloof Wilderness Reserve, nestled in South Africa’s Cederberg mountains, is home to over 130 ancient rock art sites and the region unveils much to learn about the ancient San culture.
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The remote reserve boasts landscapes of unfiltered natural beauty, but the journey there is beautiful too.
You might find yourself exploring the quaint village of Paternoster where one of South Africa’s best restaurants, Wolfgat, is situated. Or, you might find yourself stopping off in one of South Africa’s oldest towns – Clanwilliam.
If you’re in the mood for exploration, this spot is the perfect base to call home while exploring the Cederberg mountains. With an experienced guide, getting to know this part of the world is mind-boggling – once you’re there, you’re going to want to disconnect and fully absorb the experience.
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The valley of ‘Die Hel’
Don’t let the name of this narrow, isolated valley located in the Swartberg Nature Reserve put you off the adventure.
Located approximately 100 kilometers from Oudtshoorn, Gamkaskloof, or ‘Die Hel’ as it is now known, is a hidden valley that reaches deep into the heart of the Swartberg Mountain Range.
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The valley, which spans 20 km in length and is about 600 meters wide, is home to over 153 bird species, and boasts the beauty of the Gamka river. Your accommodation whilst there – Die Hel – offers camp and picnic sites, as well as several historic houses, outbuildings, a school, an old Norse watermill, a cemetery, and a curious history…
Three Tree Hill
Perched on a rocky hillside overlooking the Mfazimnyama Valley in the Spioenkop Game Reserve, Three Tree Hill is a historic retreat with an unbelievable view.
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Set against the picturesque backdrop of the Kwazulu Natal Drakensberg range, a landscape of rolling green hills and flat-crowned Acacia trees, reminiscent of an Out of Africa setting unfurls.
Situated near Van Reenens Pass, the lodge serves as an ideal stop between Johannesburg and Durban. Beyond its strategic location, the lodge is a gateway to exploring the Drakensberg Mountains, offering an array of remote activities like horse trails, game walks, and birding.
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve
Nestled within the breathtaking expanse of the Little Karoo, just a 3.5-hour drive from Cape Town along Route 62, lies Sanbona, a sprawling 62,000-hectare private nature reserve.
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Owned by a non-profit committed to fore-fronting conservation in the safari experience, Sanbona unfurls across two biodiversity hotspots. Take your pick of off-the-grid activities here – from stargazing to nature drives and walks, eco-exploring and bird-watching
From the vast open plains to the sculpted Cape Fold mountains adorned with ancient San rock art, Sanbona calls to be explored…
Thonga Beach Lodge
Coastal break calling your name? How about a secluded wilderness beach lodge within a UNESCO World Heritage Site? This is what Thonga Beach Lodge offers. Nestled on azure shores in KZN, this secluded spot promises white sand beaches, vibrant corals, and freshwater lakes.
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Accessible only to those seeking adventure and barefoot luxury, the remote paradise sits on the beach within Isimangaliso Wetland Park. Lake Sibaya, South Africa’s largest freshwater lake, is a short drive away. A suitable 4×4 vehicle is essential for this off-the-beaten-path journey.
Engage in guided morning activities or surrender to hammocks— exactly the kind of ‘beach bum’ activities one would make time for on a coastal getaway.
