South Africa is the place for nature-lovers. With diverse, interesting wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes, you can’t go wrong when picking your next holiday in SA. Before you lace up your hiking boots and zip up your backpack get inspired by these wonderful local destinations.
1. The Valley Of Desolation, Karoo
This unique landscape, declared a national monument, is a geological phenomenon that lies within the Camdeboo National Park in the Karoo desert.
The towering columns of piled dolerite visible here are the product of erosion and volcanic forces and took over 100 million years to form.
The area got its name from its desolate appearance and scarcity of animal species, you may not see much wildlife here but you’re sure to experience a one-of-a-kind ecosystem that is a must-see.
2. L’Agulhas, Western Cape
Visit the southern-most town in Africa where you can see the mixing of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.
Snap a picture at the monument that marks where two oceans meet and check out the beautiful coastal plains of L’Agulhas.
From calm-watered gullies to prestige beaches and tidal pools with warmer water than most in the Cape, you won’t regret a visit to this quaint town in Agulhas National Park.
If you’re a lover of whales, this is also a great spot to catch a good show from June to November each year.
3. Blyde River Canyon, Mpumalanga
Considered one of the largest canyons on earth, and definitely the greenest, the Blyde River Canyon is truly a wonder to behold.
If you’re scared of heights this destination may give you vertigo: its main attractions are astoundingly high viewpoints of crispy and cloudy mountain scenes, from God’s Window to Wonder View.
This area is also home to all five of South Africa’s primates can be seen here too, including somango monkeys, nocturnal greater and lesser bushbabies, chacma baboons, and vervet monkeys.
4. The Sterkfontein Caves, Maropeng
Just an hour’s drive from Johannesburg or Pretoria lies a limestone collection of caves where some of the earliest fossil finds ever were formed.
Visitors can book a tour of the detailed underground caverns and be exposed to a landscape few get to see.
Adventurers should prepare themselves for a squeeze, as many routes involve fitting through tight spaces while you explore the place where man began.
5. The Hole In The Wall, Coffee Bay
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This appealing natural wonder on the Wild Coast was brought about by years of wave erosion that carved out a tunnel through the rock.
The landmark stands at an impressive height on the shores of Coffee Bay in the Eastern Cape. The waves crash around it and burst through the hole, putting on a stunning display of oceanic power and beauty.
The waters in front of the Hole in the Wall are shallow and filled with life, perfect for a casual swim and suitably safe for little ones.
The Coffee Bay Area is also well-known for its turquoise ocean water, contrasted by dark rocky cliffs.
Picture: Facebook/The Big Hole Kimberley
