What to do in South Africa this upcoming festive season

As the days get longer and warmer, South Africans eagerly await their favorite time of the year: December. It’s a special time when people enjoy life to the fullest, visiting family and friends across the country.

Even though December is still two months away, time flies, and the end of the year will be here before you know it.

So, why not start planning your December holiday early? Let’s look at some exciting things you can do in three of South Africa’s provinces this December:

Western Cape

According to Sarah Watson, Guest Relations Manager at Kruger Gate Hotel, every year, many people go to different places in the Western Cape for the December holidays. Last year, 569,693 people from South Africa and 270,433 people from other countries came to Cape Town International Airport in December.

The Western Cape is a great place to visit for a holiday because you can enjoy the mountains, the sea, and small towns with vineyards all in one trip!

If you want to go on a holiday in the mountains in the Western Cape, you can stay in cosy, simple cabins. There are many nice places to stay for families, couples, and big groups. You can also stay at campsites like De Pakhuys in the Cederberg.

“A camping trip, however, might be better suited for people who already live within a few hours of a destination or would be driving with all the necessary equipment in a bigger vehicle as you wouldn’t be able to travel via plane with tents and sleeping bags,” said Sarah Watson.

Ocean lovers can choose from several Western Cape locations, including the Atlantic Seaboard, West Coast, Hermanus, and Kommetjie/Simon’s Town.

Whether it’s surfing, swimming, or simply lounging, the Western Cape offers a plethora of seaside delights.

Consider sea kayaking at Three Anchor Bay, taking surf lessons in Muizenberg, and indulging in a memorable seafood feast at Muisbosskerm, hailed by National Geographic as one of the top sea-view dining spots.

Mpumalanga

Get away from the busy city life and enjoy the stunning nature of different places in Mpumalanga such as Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window, the Blyde River Canyon, and notably the Kruger National Park, South Africa’s recognised World Wonder.

“A visit to the Kruger National Park is at the top of many a bucket list and is a great destination for families, couples, elders and larger groups to disconnect and find both serene and thrilling experiences in the untouched landscapes of the park,” said Sarah Watson.

“Many families are flocking to the Kruger National Park for their annual holidays to see rare sightings of endangered animals, such as the African Wild Dog, as well as the iconic Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants and African buffalo).

“Guests are particularly thrilled to see the park’s rhinos as their populations have been dwindling significantly over the years. Today, there are roughly 3,539 white rhinos and 268 black rhinos left in the park, with the Kruger National Park continuing to be home to the world’s largest rhino population. 

“Families and visiting groups can experience the magic of the Kruger National Park in their own vehicles, making the trip an intimate affair, or they can opt to be driven in open-air safari vehicles with an expert guide, who has knowledge of the park’s 517 recorded species.

“Aside from seeing spectacular wildlife in the Kruger, guests can also revel in reinvigorating spa treatments in the wild, marvel at the magical uninterrupted views of the park from the Kruger Gate Hotel’s viewing deck, cool off in the swimming pool, enjoy a family game of volleyball or life-sized chess and relish dinners under the African sky all in one location,” she further elaborated.

KwaZulu-Natal

KwaZulu-Natal (KZN), known as the Kingdom of the Zulu, is a subtropical paradise with year-round sunshine. Durban, KZN’s capital, is called Thekwini in Zulu, signifying “The place where the Earth and the Ocean meet.” Visitors during the festive season can enjoy a wide range of activities.

Thrill-seekers can experience the world’s largest stadium swing, the “Big Rush Big Swing” at Moses Mabhida Stadium, or try Flow Riders at The Wave House for surfing and boarding fun.

KZN is rich in culture, offering a taste of Durban’s famous bunny chow and insights into Zulu history and traditions at Shakaland Zulu Cultural Village.

Holidaying in Mzansi during summer provides something for everyone, whether you’re hitting the beach, exploring mountains, or immersing yourself in cultural activities.

So pack your sense of adventure (and lots of sunscreen) and enjoy the diverse experiences this vibrant region has to offer.

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