South Africa’s nine provinces offer remarkably diverse landscapes, writes Miriam Kimvangu.
Slangkop Lighthouse, Kommetjie/Quaid Lagan/Unsplash
Choosing where to go can be overwhelming given the country’s variety of destinations. These towns highlight what makes their regions unique while offering visitors meaningful and accessible travel experiences.
Western Cape: Kommetjie
Kommetjie, located on the Cape Peninsula, is recognised for its strong coastal character and preserved natural environment. The village provides insight into the Western Cape’s ocean based lifestyle, combining scenic landscapes with a well established surfing culture. The area is particularly known for Long Beach, a wide stretch of shoreline popular for surfing, walking and seasonal whale watching. The historic Slangkop Lighthouse, one of South Africa’s tallest cast iron lighthouses, is an important landmark and offers views of the surrounding coastline. Visitors can also access nearby nature reserves for hiking and birdwatching. Kommetjie’s appeal lies in its quiet setting, coastal biodiversity and proximity to Cape Town.
Eastern Cape: Coffee Bay
Coffee Bay, Eastern Cape/Homemade Media/Unsplash
Coffee Bay is situated along the Wild Coast and is known for its rugged terrain, cultural significance and relatively undeveloped coastline. The town provides access to dramatic cliffs, rolling grasslands and remote beaches that characterise this part of the Eastern Cape. The destination is closely connected to local Xhosa communities, and visitors often engage in cultural tours that provide insight into traditional practices and village life. Outdoor activities include hiking to the well known Hole in the Wall rock formation, surfing and horseback riding along the coast. Coffee Bay’s significance lies in its natural landscapes and cultural heritage, offering a distinctive regional experience.
Northern Cape: Hondeklipbaai
Hondeklipbaai/ISSIPOT/Wikimedia Commons
Hondeklipbaai represents the Northern Cape’s remote coastal environment and sparse population density. Historically associated with fishing and diamond mining, the town now functions primarily as a quiet coastal destination within the Namaqualand region. The surrounding area is internationally recognised for its spring wildflower displays, which transform the landscape with seasonal colour. Visitors also explore the coastline through photography, fishing and beach walks. The town’s location provides insight into the Northern Cape’s maritime history and unique desert coastal ecosystems.
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Free State: Clarens
Clarens/Spekboom/Unsplash
Clarens is widely regarded as a cultural and outdoor destination within the Free State. Situated near Golden Gate Highlands National Park, the town is surrounded by distinctive sandstone formations and mountain scenery. The area has developed a reputation for its art galleries, craft shops and creative community. Visitors participate in activities such as hiking, mountain biking and scenic drives through the surrounding highlands. Clarens also serves as a base for exploring fossil sites and protected natural areas, making it a centre for both recreation and heritage tourism.
KwaZulu Natal: Ballito
Ballito/Panashe Tarusenga/Unsplash
Ballito offers KwaZulu Natal’s signature blend of warm ocean waters and vibrant coastal living. Once a small holiday town, it has grown into a lively destination known for its beaches and family friendly atmosphere.
The town’s popularity comes from its golden beaches, reliable surfing conditions and bustling promenade. Activities include dolphin spotting, tidal pool swimming, fishing and exploring nearby nature reserves. Ballito’s sunny climate and relaxed lifestyle make it one of the province’s most loved seaside escapes.
North West: Hartbeespoort
Hartebeespoort Dam/Mukovhe Mavhungu/Unsplash
Just a short drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria, Hartbeespoort is a favourite weekend retreat known for its dam views and outdoor activities. The Magaliesberg mountains provide a dramatic backdrop, creating a scenic setting that feels far removed from city life.
You can enjoy boat cruises on Hartbeespoort Dam, cableway rides to panoramic viewpoints and visits to local markets and wildlife sanctuaries. The town is loved for its accessibility, natural beauty and wide range of activities for families and adventure seekers.
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Gauteng: Magaliesburg
Magaliesburg/Matt Halls/Unsplash
For a province defined by fast paced city life, Magaliesburg offers a refreshing contrast. This countryside retreat sits against the scenic Magaliesberg mountains, one of the world’s oldest mountain ranges, and is loved for its peaceful atmosphere and natural beauty. People are drawn to Magaliesburg for its easy access from Johannesburg and Pretoria, along with its strong focus on outdoor experiences. The town’s quiet farm stays, country lodges and spa retreats create the perfect setting for a relaxed weekend escape. Activities include hiking and trail running in the mountains, horse riding through open countryside and canopy tours above indigenous forest. With its fresh air, wide open landscapes and slow pace, Magaliesburg stands out as Gauteng’s favourite nature getaway.
Mpumalanga: Dullstroom
Dullstroom/Simon Hurry/Unsplash
Dullstroom is characterised by its high altitude climate and wetland environment. The town is recognised nationally as a centre for fly fishing, with numerous stocked dams and streams supporting the activity. The surrounding region includes hiking trails, waterfalls and birdwatching sites, particularly within nearby nature reserves. Dullstroom also features a growing culinary and whisky tourism sector. Its cooler climate and natural setting distinguish it from other destinations in the province.
Limpopo: Tzaneen
Geoff Maredi/Unsplash
Tzaneen is celebrated for its lush scenery and subtropical climate, offering a striking contrast to Limpopo’s bushveld landscapes. Surrounded by mountains, forests and fruit farms, the town is known for its natural beauty and agricultural richness. Popular activities include visiting tea plantations, exploring nearby nature reserves and touring local markets filled with fresh produce. The area also serves as a gateway to the Wolkberg mountains and scenic drives through the Magoebaskloof region. Tzaneen’s greenery and relaxed pace make it a standout destination.
South Africa’s provinces each offer a town that captures the essence of its region. These destinations reflect the country’s diversity and experiences worth travelling for.
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