3 ways to travel like a local in South Africa
Knysna Heads in Knysna, a town in South Africa's Western Cape province. lemaret pierrick/Shutterstock
South Africa's diverse offerings make it a dream destination for anyone who can't sit still. From incredible wildlife encounters to vibrant food and wine scenes to incredibly rich history and culture, the abundance of activities ensures you'll never be idle for too long.
And while it's hard to resist the allure of big cities like Cape Town, Durban and Johannesburg – where there's always a new restaurant to try, a museum to visit, or a sports game to see – where do you go when you want to step off the beaten path and unwind?
Departing from the hustle and bustle of big city life, we've sought insights from three South African experts who'll guide you on how to vacation like a local, exploring the diverse landscapes and rich tapestry of the Rainbow Nation.
1. Montagu
Melanie van Zyl was born, raised and is still based in Johannesburg but travels frequently across Southern Africa.
Why Montagu?
I spent my childhood on road trips. My folks owned a 4WD vehicle rental business, and we traversed South Africa, dropping off cars for clients or fetching supplies and exploring new places. One of our favorite family trips was Route 62, South Africa's equivalent to America's famous Route 66.
Montagu, a charming town, marks the beginning of this route. It is also where my parents have chosen to retire, and I am always happy to visit them there.
Must-do activity
The town is mountainous and mellow, offering a range of design-led stays, quieter wine-tasting experiences and excellent farm fare. Unsurprisingly, it's a popular destination for trendy Capetonians who want a reset (it's only a three-hour drive away). The Montagu Museum is an excellent (if small) site to learn about the town's history and better understand South Africa's diverse past. For something more unusual, we join guided history tours by a passionate local on her fascinating ghost tour of the streets by bicycle.
Where to stay
Accommodations range from sleek country cabins like Suidster and Wolwehoek to minimal art-focused hideaways, such as Stil. The quirky art-deco-inspired Montagu Country Hotel in the middle of town remains a firm favorite with its little spa and tourism center. Opposite the hotel is the Montagu Bookshop, where I regularly browse the shelves.
Where to eat
Kapokbos, located at the Weltevrede Wine Estate, is our family's new favorite foodie treat, but Springfield is our go-to if we're looking for great wine in a sublime outdoor setting on a sunny day. We never leave Montagu without stopping by the Cape Dry Factory Store for padkos (snacks) and cost-price wines from surrounding farms, such as Excelsior and De Wetshof or popping into Blu Vines for a cappuccino and panoramic views.
2. Knysna
Jabulile Ngwenya is a writer and copywriter who lives in Cape Town.
Why Knysna?
Some years ago, I embarked on a road trip along the periphery of South Africa, culminating in my arrival at the Garden Route – a 200km (124-mile) coastal stretch extending from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Stormsrivier in the Eastern Cape. The journey from Cape Town offers a scenic view comprising quaint towns, rugged coastal patches, immaculate sandy beaches, forests, mountains, gorges, lakes and rivers. In other words, there's always plenty to see even if you don't manage to spot the southern right whales and dolphins this coastal route is famous for.
Must-do activity
Stops like Oudtshoorn, known for ostrich farms; Hermanus, a whale-watching hub; Plettenberg Bay, dubbed the Hamptons of the Cape; and Wilderness, a haven for birdwatchers, dot the way. But with its lagoon and lush forests, Knysna tops my list. Every July, it hosts an oyster festival where you can shuck oysters and indulge in the seafood the region is known for.
Where to stay
If you're inclined to splurge, I recommend staying at Buccara Lindsay Castle in Knysna, a luxury hotel nestled into the cliff above Noetzie Beach. For a less extravagant yet equally beautiful option, consider Amanzi Island Boutique with views of the lagoon and Knysna Heads.
Where to eat
My go-to spot is the Drydock Food Company, where you must try their grilled seafood platter with prawns, accompanied by rice, fries, and South African Chenin Blanc. And don't skip the snoek fish – it's a firm South African favorite.
3. Kasouga
Linathi Mikanda is a South African writer, poet and photographer whose travels take her across the African continent.
Why Kasouga?
As you traverse South Africa's Eastern Cape province – the second-largest in the country – a realization sets in: you're but a tiny speck in a vast and varied landscape. Renowned for expansive rural scenery, indigenous forests, deserted beaches, and soaring mountains, the province invites you to embrace a slower pace of life. And for me, there's no better place to do that than in the coastal village of Kasouga, recognized as the region's oldest resort.
Where to stay
Oribi Haven, a secluded coastal farm nestled less than 1km (0.6 mile) from the main road and close to the beach, offers sanctuary to those seeking respite from city life. Within this tiny haven, The Guineafowl Cottage accommodates four guests, providing sweeping views of the farm and the sea from its deck. Host Jenny Currie, driven by a passion for wildlife, will introduce you to her approximately 135 oribi – small, indigenous antelopes that graze freely on the land. The farm has an array of enjoyable activities for guests too, from leisurely picnics and fishing to walking and driving tours, and even delving into the thrill of sandboarding.
Where to eat
In Kasouga, renowned for its tight-knit community, residents actively promote local businesses, especially restaurants along nearby Route 72 where you have wineries, well-stocked farm stores, welcoming pubs and sophisticated restaurants.
Plan with a local
