South Africans have a precious window to rediscover their own backyard.
These are the weeks when favourite destinations feel calm and unhurried. It’s a time when locals can wander the trails, beaches and small towns that soon will buzz with out-of-towners. There is no better time than now to pack the car and set off before the rush begins. Here are 7 beautiful destinations to add to your spring travel rotation.
Morgan Bay, Eastern Cape
Morgan Bay/Claidheamhmor/Wikimedia Commons
A quiet coastal village where rugged cliffs meet long sandy beaches, Morgan Bay is the kind of place that seems to exhale peace. Before the December crowds arrive, locals can enjoy empty stretches of coastline perfect for morning walks and sundowners with uninterrupted views. The nearby Kei Mouth ferry still operates as it has for decades, offering a nostalgic touch for those heading further down the Wild Coast.
Why now: During the low season, accommodation is affordable and the weather is ideal for hiking the cliffs or simply soaking up the sound of the waves.
Montagu, Western Cape
Montagu/Carmie/Unsplash
This quaint Klein Karoo town offers a perfect pre-summer escape for those who want crisp mornings, warm afternoons, and quiet evenings under the stars. Surrounded by sandstone mountains and known for its hot springs, Montagu exudes an old-world charm that feels untouched by time. The town’s slow pace and welcoming locals make it an ideal spot for a relaxed weekend before the holiday crowds arrive from Cape Town and Johannesburg.
Why now: Spring brings wildflowers and mild weather perfect for outdoor activities. The rock-climbing routes are open and the hiking trails are lush from recent rains.
Riebeek Kasteel, Western Cape
Heribert Bechen/Wikimedia Commons
Only an hour from Cape Town, Riebeek Kasteel is a small town that feels far away from city life. With its olive groves, art galleries, and easy pace, it’s a perfect spot for a local getaway before the summer rush. In November, the air hums with the scent of ripening fruit, and the local markets brim with handmade goods and fresh treats. It is also wine country, with boutique cellars that invite visitors to linger a little longer.
Why now: Before December, tables at popular restaurants like The Royal Hotel are easy to book, and tasting rooms are relaxed and unhurried.
Underberg, KwaZulu-Natal
Underberg/Ryanj93/Wikimedia Commons
Tucked beneath the southern Drakensberg, Underberg is a landscape of misty mornings and rolling hills. This is a place where time slows and nature takes centre stage. Before summer turns it into a holiday hotspot, locals can enjoy trout fishing, horseback riding, and hiking in the nearby uKhahlamba-Drakensberg Park without the usual crowds.
Why now: Spring and early summer bring wildflowers to the valleys, and the Sani Pass is still peaceful before tourists arrive to tackle the winding road to Lesotho.
Nieu-Bethesda, Eastern Cape
Nieu-Bethesda/redcharlie/Unsplash
This remote Karoo village feels like a step back in time. Known for the Owl House and its hauntingly beautiful sculptures, Nieu-Bethesda draws those who appreciate art, solitude, and starlit nights. The village streets are quiet before the festive season, and visitors can wander between galleries, craft shops, and the local brewery without feeling rushed.
Why now: Cooler evenings and crisp mornings make it ideal for walking tours. The roads are quiet, and accommodation is easy to find at this time of year.
Paternoster, West Coast
Mark Bloomfield/Unsplash
A favourite among Capetonians, Paternoster’s charm lies in its whitewashed cottages, turquoise waters, and easy rhythm. Before the summer crowds fill the restaurants and beaches, locals can savour its quiet mornings and windswept shores. The coastal light at this time of year is extraordinary, casting golden hues over the dunes and sea.
Why now: October and November bring mild weather and affordable stays. It’s the best time to enjoy the town’s seafood restaurants without the wait.
Kaapschehoop, Mpumalanga
Kaapschehoop/Antoinette Plessis/Unsplash
High in the misty hills above Nelspruit, Kaapschehoop feels mysterious and atmospheric. The small town is famous for its wild horses that roam freely through the pine forests and cobbled streets. Before the festive rush, this is a place to unwind, enjoy log fires, and take slow walks along old mining paths surrounded by nature.
Why now: The weather is cool and perfect for hiking, and the scenic trails are blissfully uncrowded. The mist gives the town an otherworldly feel that adds to its charm.
There is something special about being in a place before everyone else arrives. The air feels fresher, the locals have time to chat and you can thoroughly enjoy the small details that make each destination unique. For South Africans looking to reconnect with the country’s quieter corners, these places offer a chance to explore without the queues.
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