What comes to your mind when you hear of South Africa? If we were to guess, it would most likely be the animal safaris or nature reserves—but did you know that South Africa has so much more than that? From daredevil experiences to premium malls twice the size of VivoCity, here’s what South Africa has to offer.
Adventure
For our adventurous folks, Cape Town is filled with daredevil activities and thrilling experiences. Highlight spots from Cape Town include Table Mountain, The Lion’s Head, and the Atlantis Dunes.
Known for its stunning overhead 360º view of the Cape Peninsula, seasoned hikers can challenge themselves to Table Mountain’s various trails—especially the Traverse of the Gods. Alternatively, soar above Cape Town by paragliding from the peak of the Lion’s Head, which stands 669 metres above sea level. A little farther out than Cape Central, you can also have the once-in-a-lifetime chance to ride across the Atlantis Dunes by booking an ATV quad bike tour.
Culture
Following the train of adventure, culture enthusiasts are in for a ride when visiting Pretoria. Notable historic sites in the city include the Voortrekker Monument, Freedom Park Heritage Site, and Melrose House Museum.
The Voortrekker Monument was raised to commemorate the Boer leaders, now known as Voortrekkers, who left the Cape Colony and laid the foundation for South Africa today. The Freedom Park Heritage Site, on the other hand, was created in remembrance of the South Africans who fought to end formal apartheid. Another significant site in South African history, the Melrose House Museum, contains the room and table on which the Treaty of Vereeniging (which ended the Second Boer War) was signed.
Sight-seeing
Onto the more picturesque side of travelling, Sutherland is home to many sightseeing landmarks like the Sutherland Planetarium, Dunrobin Castle, and Geise Farm.
Located in the centre of Sutherland en route to the Southern African Large Telescope, Sutherland Planetarium offers a variety of full-dome 3D shows and evening stargazing sessions. Over in the Northern Highlands, Dunrobin Castle stands as the largest state house with 189 rooms, and as one of Britain’s oldest continuously inhabited houses, dating back to the early 1300s.
Shopping
Lastly, for those whose highlight of every holiday is exploring new shopping malls (including premium outlets), Johannesburg is the place to be.
Full of gems to shop, renowned spaces include Sandton City, Fourways Mall, and The Zone @ Rosebank.
Defining Johannesburg’s luxury scene, Sandton City is home to over 380 luxury retail brands and is even referred to as the richest square mile in Africa. Fourways Mall, on the contrary, takes the cake as the largest shopping mall in South Africa—with 400 stores, an entertainment area comprising movie theatres and mini golf courses, and so much more. A mall that combines luxury and lifestyle, The Zone @ Rosebank is an integrated mixed-use development which provides retail, office and hotel space.
After reading this article, South Africa isn’t as desolate as you expected, right? So which city will you be visiting first?
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