Top 6 Local & Lekker Holiday Spots

South Africa has some of the world’s most unique wonders of nature – and we have the opportunity of discovering so much of it this holiday season!
Explore our local flora, fauna and fascinations this year, with Merrell’s top 6 areas to visit.

1. The Wild Coast

The Wild Coast is also known as Transkei, and it offers the most breath-taking views – from the famous detached cliff of Hole-in-the-Wall in Coffee Bay to numerous hidden waterfalls and streams, untouched by man.
Also found in this area of untamed wilderness are two shipwrecks, the Great Kei River, and a number of scenic hiking trails.

2. The Karoo

The semi-arid Karoo encompasses parts of so many South African provinces – Eastern Cape, Western Cape, and Northern Cape.
While Oudtshoorn is the first to come to mind with its famous ostrich farms, cuisine, the Cango Caves, and the Cango Wildlife Ranch; the Greater Karoo offers nature lovers many other special experiences, too.
The Karoo National Park offers 4x4 eco-trails, guided game drives, bird watching, and even a fossil trail. It is also home to the Sylvester Single Track, a looped 2.7km long track available to mountain bikers and joggers.
Alternatively, venture out to off-beat towns like Nieu-Bethesda, Sutherland and Cradock along the way and see the hidden gems of the Greater Karoo.

3. The Garden Route

For a route that spans 300km all the way from Storms River to Mossel Bay, it is only natural that there be countless activities and adventures along the way.
Explore the Plett Puzzle Park or Garden Route Wolf Sanctuary with the whole family, or enjoy fine dining and oyster-tasting on a romantic escape to Knysna. And if you’d rather go on an exhilarating quest for adrenalin, try bungee jumping off of Bloukrans Bridge or ziplining through the trees for the Tsitsikamma Canopy Tour.
Chances are that you will encounter so many more wonderful things along the way, too!

4. Central or In-land

If you plan to explore the centre of the South Africa, there are a number of awe-inspiring destinations to add to the list.
The Blyde River Canyon in Mpumalanga is a canyon spanning a whole 26km and within this nature reserve is a vantage point aptly known as God’s Window – overlooking a panoramic landscape like no other.
You could also visit the Big Hole and to learn more about the diamond-mining town of Kimberley, or set your sights on a safari holiday in the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park.

5. West Coast

If the sea is what you want to see, then the West Coast offers a perfect beach village holiday.
Charming towns to hop to and from or use as your base include Hermanus for whale-watching, Langebaan for water sports like sailing, kayaking, kitesurfing, and fishing, and Lambert’s Bay for wonderful wildflowers and sumptuous seafood.
Quaint, pretty and down-to-earth, the West Coast is going to steal your heart!

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6. Close to the big cities

While the big cities boast modern amenities, shopping expeditions and trendy restaurants, they are also just a stone’s throw away from incredible nature experiences and outings.

Near Cape Town – Simon’s Town is both charismatic and nostalgic as one of South Africa’s oldest towns and naval bases. It is also home to Boulder’s Beach and its huge penguin colony.
Near Johannesburg and Pretoria – Not only is one of the world’s favourite African holiday destinations just up the road in the form of Sun City and its celebrated Valley of the Waves, those looking for something slightly more down-to-earth can take the short drive to Hartbeespoort for delicious waffles, fresh farm produce, and much more.
Near Gqeberha – Port Elizabeth has a number of Blue Flag beaches, but to go from beach to bush, you need only travel up to 2 hours out of the city and you will find a number of exquisite game reserves such as Addo Elephant Park, Amakhala Game Reserve, Shamwari Private Game Reserve, and the Daniell Cheetah Project.
Near Durban – The Drakensberg Mountains can show you snow in winter, but in summer it allows you the freedom to enjoy adventurous activities such as tubing, canoeing, fishing, hiking and mountain biking – all with an impeccable view.

Are you ready to explore your beautiful nation this festive season?
Be prepared for anything with a pair of versatile, active-lifestyle shoes from Merrell.
Try the Merrell Convoy AC+ or the Merrell Intercept this December!