Getaways to warm you up this winter

South African winters luckily still bring a lot of enjoyable activities. Some destinations are still warm enough for outdoor adventures, and festive cultural evenings. With mild temperatures and fewer crowds, winter may just be the best time to discover this country’s diverse landscapes and unique history.

The Western Cape

Cape Town is a vibrant city with a mix of diverse cultures, landscapes, and cuisines. Made popular by its iconic Table Mountain, it is one of South Africa’s most picturesque destinations. Although rather rainy, cold, and windy during winter, there are still many enjoyable things to do around the Mother City this coming season.

Recommended activities in Cape Town:

Take a light stroll through the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, surf the fierce winter waves of Long Beach, Glen Beach, or Llandudno, and go kitesurfing at Bloubergstrand and Muizenberg Beach.

Foodies will want to take the Bo-Kaap Cooking Tour, which takes you on a voyage into the life, food, and culture of the Cape Malays in Bo-Kaap, whilst offering you a hands-on, practical lesson on how to cook delicious Cape Malay meals!

While you’re in the Western Cape, visit Stellenbosch. Its wine region can be one of the cosiest places to visit in South Africa in winter. Winter days in the rustic countryside are spent snuggled up by the fireplace and sampling the tastiest wines from local sommeliers – without the tourist crowds.

Eastern Cape

Picture: GettyImages

The windy city, the friendly city, Port Elizabeth, Gqeberha – whatever you know it as – is a beautiful holiday destination away from the usual vacation spots. Discover the ocean on your doorstep while in town, enjoy the beautiful Blue Flag beaches, and keep a lookout for penguins and dolphins. If the beach isn’t your thing, hop onto an electric scooter and explore Gqeberha’s waterfront, or take advantage of the outdoor gym on Surfers Beach.

KwaZulu-Natal

If you’re not a fan of cold temperatures, Durban is the place to be this winter. This is because icy winters are unheard of – instead you will be met with mild temperatures, low humidity, and little rainfall.

Recommended activities:

If you enjoy all things adventure, then winter in Durban is the perfect time to test your surfing skills at North Beach, Ansteys Beach, or Cave Rock.

Head to the coastal town of St. Lucia for sensational views of the Elephant Coast while on a whale-watching cruise. More exciting perhaps is the annual Sardine Run, where millions of sardines swim to the shores of Durban, and fishermen, birds, and sharks fight for the ultimate catch.

Consider cycling along the beachfront Golden Mile or join the annual Comrades Marathon held in June.

Looking for leisure? Radisson Blu Hotel, Durban Umhlanga is the perfect base from which to explore at your leisure. Take a stroll on Whale Bone Pier, soak up some sun on Umhlanga Beach, enjoy some art at Makiwa Gallery, feast on fresh seafood at Q’bn’s Eatery, or shop till you drop at the world-class Oceans Mall.

Gauteng

From historical to cultural events, this city has it all. Rosebank has the highest concentration of major art galleries all centred within walking distance of each other, and plenty of public art to enjoy too.

Enjoy being in the heart of Joburg’s most walkable art hub with several awe-inspiring galleries. Most notable is Keyes Art Mile, an impressive contemporary development on Keyes Avenue that celebrates local art and design as well as fine food.

Enjoy the luxury of a world-class spa or Level 7 Restaurant before or after your flight, at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo.

Mpumalanga

Kruger is one of the best destinations in South Africa for wildlife viewing on any day. If you want to increase your chances of spotting all the Big 5 on a Kruger safari, winter is your best bet. The drier winter months mean there is less foliage and therefore game-spotting is a lot easier. Located in a tranquil riverine section in the Greater Kruger Conservancy, Kruger Gate Hotel offers a unique stay and a classic Kruger safari experience.

If you’re not keen on game drives and prefer to game-view at your leisure, the viewing deck provides uninterrupted views into the Park, so you can sit back, sip on a warm beverage of your choice and look to spot some wildlife.