We often find ourselves asking the question whether or not we need a getaway during winter. There are mixed feelings about this question! The we go on and ask “Why visit South Africa in winter?” Now, we have an answer to that question.
Whale Watching
Whale watching is one of the most popular thing to do during the South African winter. Between June and November a host of whales migrate to the Cape Coasts and the North Coast of KwaZulu Natal in South Africa and up to 37 whale and dolphin species can be found in the waters of South Africa. Hermanus, Plettenberg Bay and St Lucia are the best whale watching spots where you can even partake in an ocean and marine life safari and encounter these marine beasts up close and other marine creatures altogether.
Kruger National Park
It is a fact that wild animals tend to roam freely in winter and this is when you get the best chances of spotting some of the rarest of them. In South Africa, Kruger National Park, Africa’s largest game reserve, is the ideal destination for a winter safari. Not only will you enjoy the sightings of the wild, but the beauty of the atmosphere, biodiversity and natural and historical sites are overwhelming in winter. You won’ want to leave.
Wine tasting
A real winter warmer that one! An excellent glass of red wine paired with fondue or a thick juicy steak in winter keep the cold away. With a host of wine farms and cellars, some still emerging in the country, wine tasting makes a perfect winter activity, enjoyable either in the afternoon or in the evening. Wine cellar tours are also enjoyable. Make a trip to the Cape Winelands, where you can experience authentic winery excursions, and weather you are in Route62 or in the actual Cape winelands, the experience is the same and overwhelmingly incredible.
Matroosberg
Known to be the tallest mountain in the Boland region, the Matroosberg mountain is a popular winter attraction as it is one of the few places that experiences snow in winter in South Africa. Abounding activities for families as well as bigger groups include 4×4 drives, quad biking, fishing, ice climbing, abseiling, cherry picking and farm tours in the area. Treat yourself and your family to an unforgettable and eventful winter vacation.
The Clarens Route
A 3 hour drive from Johannesburg and tucked in the Maluti Mountains sits the quaint “The Jewel of the Free State”, Clarens. The little village overlooks fertile and stunning landscapes and Lesotho is visible in a distance from here. The famous Golden Gate Highlands National Park is just outside the village and is renowned for its rare sandstone cliffs which turn golden in the rays of the setting sun. For those seeking an alternative lifestyle, Clarens quiet and serene, picturesque while offering various outdoor ventures, such as birding, hiking trails, horse riding, 4×4 trails, trout and bass fishing, golf, to name a few. The Clarens Route makes a perfect escape for or the log cabin, crackling fire and woolly-blanket-lover.
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