It’s never too early to start planning your next summer vacation, and if you can’t decide where to go, you’d be happy to know South Africa has plenty of hidden gems just waiting to be explored.

Beyond the usual tourist hotspots like Table Mountain, Kruger National Park, and  Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, there are many hidden gems that will make your travel experience memorable.

Let's explore!

Waterfall Bluff

A traveller described their experience at Waterfall Bluff as “so beautiful it feels spiritual”.

If you’re looking for a truly unique experience, this location should be on your list. Waterfall Bluff in the Eastern Cape is one of the nineteen waterfalls in the world that falls directly into the ocean, creating a breathtaking sight, perfect for nature lovers and hikers.

The best time to visit Waterfall Bluff, Eastern Cape is during summer when the weather is warm and the waterfall has a stronger flow. Some tips to keep in mind when visiting include:

• Go with a guide so you don’t get lost.
• Wear good hiking shoes.
• Bring plenty of water and snacks.
• Check the tides.

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park:

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park stretches across South Africa and Botswana. It’s a vast location known for its red sand dunes, landscapes, and incredible wildlife.

Unlike the more famous Kruger National Park, Kgalagadi Park in the Northern Cape offers a more remote and uncrowded safari experience, making it a dream destination for nature lovers and photographers.

The park is home to many cheetahs, leopards, hyenas, and black-maned Kalahari lions. It also has incredible birdlife, from majestic eagles to colourful bee-eaters, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

Also read: Top 7 must-visit historical sites in South Africa

Cederberg Mountains:

The Cederberg Mountains are located in the Western Cape, and they’re perfect for anyone looking for a peaceful escape from cities. The mountains are known for their dramatic rock formations, ancient San rock paintings, and breathtaking sunsets.

The Cederberg Mountains are about two hours from Cape Town, making them perfect for a weekend getaway. The best times to visit are from March to May and September to November.

While this location is perfect for hike lovers, many other regional activities can be done, including:

• Mountain biking
• Exploring the Stadsaal Caves
• Stargazing
• Bird watching
• Wine tasting

Kosi Bay, KwaZulu-Natal:

Kosi Bay is a coastal gem, part of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. It’s known for its crystal-clear lakes, untouched beaches, and rich marine life, making it a must-visit destination for travellers seeking a memorable travel experience.

It’s a renowned turtle nesting site, and you might be lucky to see some turtles come ashore to lay eggs.

Other activities you can enjoy at Kosi Bay include:

• Boat cruises
• Snorkelling and diving
• Kayaking
• Fish trap tours

De Hoop Nature Reserve

De Hoop Nature Reserve is about three hours from Cape Town and is said to lie at the southernmost tip of Africa. Although a relatively small park, it surprises you with its beautiful beaches, rolling dunes and diverse wildlife. Unlike busy tourist spots, this peaceful nature reserve allows you to enjoy nature without the crowds.

January is considered one of the best times to visit De Hoop; however, from May to October, you can see southern right whales just off the coast as they migrate to breed.

The reserve is also home to zebras, bonteboks, and over 260 bird species.

For outdoor lovers, De Hoop offers hiking, cycling, kayaking, and snorkelling. You can also mountain bike through the reserve, which lets you spot wildlife up close.

Whether you love adventure or simply want to relax by the ocean, De Hoop might be the place for you.

Why travel with Grey to South Africa?

• Instant currency exchange: You don’t have to jump through hoops to get South African rands (ZAR). With Grey, you can easily convert your money between USD, GBP, EUR, and ZAR at competitive rates, so you always have the right currency for your trip.

Also read: Grey vs. local banks: The best currency exchange option in South Africa

• No hidden fees: Enjoy transparent pricing with no surprise charges, so you can spend more on your trip and less on fees.
• Fast and reliable transactions: Whether paying for a safari adventure or a meal at a local restaurant, Grey ensures quick, secure and hassle-free payments.
• Spend like a local: Need to pay for accommodation, book tours, or split bills with friends? With Grey, you can send and receive money in ZAR effortlessly.

Wherever your South African adventure takes you, you can rest assured that with Grey, your travel experience will be seamless and stress-free. Sign up for a Grey account today, or download the app to get started today for free!