Easter is around the corner, presenting yet another great time to squeeze in a well-deserved break in this beautiful country we call home.
Forming part of our annual peak travel period, easter is a time when South Africans tend to make their way back to their hometowns to reconnect and relax with friends and family. While we often gravitate towards the big cities for the usual travel experiences, some of the most unique and unforgettable experiences can be found in small towns scattered throughout the provinces – some of them in your backyard.
Whether you promised Gogo a visit this Easter, planning a baecation or a getaway with family or your friends –small towns in Mzansi have something to offer for every occasion. This Easter South African Tourism is encouraging people of Mzansi to explore their country and set their tables anywhere for a holiday experience without feeling restricted to their home dining tables.
Tables are central to everything we do; they bring people together and foster a sense of community and belonging. There are over 500 small towns to discover with a treasure trove of accessible and affordable adventures and experiences just waiting for you to indulge in.
Don’t know where to start? Ska wara, we’ve done the work for you. When we say this table can be anywhere, we mean it. Below are just a few hidden gems where you can set your table and experience the best of Mzansi this Easter.
· Experience rich African cultures at the Shababala International Culture Centre (Mpumalanga)
At the Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre, you can expect to experience traditional African dances and learn about customs and traditions of Swati people. Visitors can expect to get lost in the storytelling and graceful renditions of ancient songs.
· Feel like a tourist in Eastern Cape
Uncuthu tours offers guided tours in nature, culture, and adventure in and around Eastern Cape. Uncuthu tours offers tours in beer tasting, food, safaris, and wildlife.
· Get the Ultimate Soweto experience (Gauteng)
Soweto Camp Festival is a three-day outdoor event, connecting people from different backgrounds. You can expect to listen to and watch live music performances while enjoying delicious food and drink options and indulge in live art and photography workshops, just to name a few.
· Go glamping in Upington (Northern Cape)
Known for its rich history, Upington has numerous monuments and is considered a tourism and agricultural hub. It is surrounded by vineyards, orchards, and cotton fields. The town is also bustling with a range of restaurants, too.
· Settle within a riverine in Madikwe (North West)
Awe, situated near the border of Botswana, Madikwe is a game reserve that showcases diverse wildlife and the Big Five. In addition to game drives and wildlife viewing, visitors to Madikwe can also participate in various other activities, including guided walks, bird watching, and star gazing. The reserve is easily accessible by road or air, with a nearby airport and various shuttle services available.
· Overlook a majestic waterfall in Phuthaditjhaba (Free State)
Phuthaditjhaba is located in the Free State province of South Africa, near the border with Lesotho. It is the largest town in the QwaQwa region and is in a scenic location surrounded by mountains, valleys, and rivers.
· Roam fertile farmlands in Mount Fletcher (Eastern Cape)
Situated in the foothills of the Drakensberg Mountains, Mount Fletcher is a small town near the border with Lesotho. It is surrounded by beautiful mountainous terrain, rivers, and forests and is known for its scenic beauty and outdoor activities.
· Go underground in Magaliesberg (Gauteng) historical caves
Magaliesberg is a mountain range and region located in Gauteng. Magaliesberg is a popular destination for outdoor activities, such as hiking, rock climbing, bird watching, and spa and wellness tourism, with several luxury spa resorts in the area. Visitors can also explore the local arts and crafts scene, with many traditional craftspeople and artists in the area.
· Visit a cultural village in St. Lucia (Kwa Zulu Natal)
St. Lucia is known for its outdoor activities, beaches, nature reserves, and wildlife parks in the surrounding area. The nearby iSimangaliso Wetland Park is home to various animal and plant species, including hippos, crocodiles, and numerous bird species.
After, It’s Your Country. Enjoy it. Cause nothing is more fun than a Shot Left.
