Local tourism is on the cards for the rest of 2020. As it’s unlikely the borders will open soon, South Africans can take the opportunity to explore and experience our country like an international tourist.
One of the most recent offerings for foreign tourists across the country are Airbnb Experiences. These are activities posted by locals which relate to their area of expertise and are offered through Airbnb.
While these are largely geared towards showing international visitors around our cities, experiencing local food and culture, they are also a great opportunity for locals to get in touch with South Africa and other South Africans.
They are also a great way of supporting fellow citizens who have been knocked hardest by the lack of tourists due to the lockdown. Currently the experiences are paused, but they will reopen from September 24.
So, if you’re excited to experience some South African hospitality from fellow South Africans, take a look at some of the best experiences we’ve chosen or explore even more options on Airbnb.
1. Craft Rum Tasting and Distillery Tour (Cape Town)
Gin is over, Rum is in. Mark and his son will take you through the rum making process at their small craft distillery. After experiencing the process, you will enjoy the three craft rums they make with your choice of mixers. The pair will offer explanations behind the flavours dancing across your tongue.
Includes: Drinks
Cost: R120/pp
Design an African Print Bomber Jacket (Johannesburg)
What is better than leaving an experience with a souvenir you’ve made yourself? In three hours you will be taken through the experience with Sebo from concept to finished garment.
From shopping for the perfect African print to getting your measurements just right, this is both a crash course in tailoring and a unique way to experience the trendy neighbourhoods of Maboneng and Braamfontein. You also get to have great pictures taken in your new custom design.
Includes: Drinks, transportation and equipment.
Cost: R1,500/pp
Experience the Underwater Wilderness (Durban)
Are you even in Durban if you’re not in the sea? This snorkelling experience will take you under the waves in South Africa’s warmer ocean to spot the fascinating fish that swim beneath.
If you’re a beginner, you’ll get a short skills lesson to teach you the basics of how to use the gear to make sure you don’t run into trouble and can solely concentrate on trying to spy Moray Eels, Parrotfish, Damsels, Surgeons, Butterflyfish and loads of other colourful creatures.
Includes: Drinks and equipment.
Cost: R350/pp
Don’t watch Soweto, Be Part of Soweto (Johannesburg)
Soweto is packed with history and culture and not experiencing it is something many South Africans miss out on. While you could attempt a tour alone as major historic sites are well marked, going with someone who knows what they’re talking about will always be better.
Ntsiki will take you around to the homes of Mandela and Tutu while explaining the history of Soweto and its building. From there, the Hector Pieterson Museum provides insight into the Soweto Uprising and protests against the government. You will have a lunch Kota before hopping in a taxi which will stop off at key sites, like an informal restaurant to taste more local treats and learn about Soweto’s hostels and their past. Finally, the tour ends at Walter Sisulu Square, where the Freedom Charter was written.
Includes: Food
Cost: R400/pp
Also Read: The Top 13 Hyde Park Restaurants
Magoebaskloof Guided Day Hike with Lunch (Tzaneen)
Magoebaskloof is among South Africa’s most beautiful regions and this guided hike allows you to take in the beauty without getting lost.
Ruan will take you past the world’s tallest planets tree on this adventure through the mountain forest. Look out for birds among the lush greenery as you make your way along this 13km trail. Mostly downhill, the trail descends to the Debengeni falls. Here you can attempt a bum slide and swim in the rock pool followed by a burger lunch at the picnic site.
Includes: Food, drinks, transportation and equipment.
Cost: R550/pp
Images: Airbnb Experiences
Also Read: The 13 Best Maboneng Restaurants
