Beyond the iconic wildlife and awe-inspiring landscapes that South Africa is renowned for lies a treasure trove of hidden gems that often escape the typical tourist itinerary. Apart from our famed mountains and historical landmarks, have you ever pondered the lesser-known attractions that are equally riveting?
If you’re looking for something a little different, here are 10 strange South African places you will fall in love with.
1. Owl House
In the heart of South Africa, a mere 50km from Graaff Reinet, lies a place that’s intriguing and tinged with melancholy – The Owl House. Though its backstory might leave you with mixed emotions, there’s no denying the uniqueness it offers.
Navigating your way to The Owl House is fairly straightforward, with the last stretch being gravel. Though this unpaved part might seem challenging, rest assured that any vehicle can tread this path.
But a word to the wise: keep an eye out for cattle when you’re on the main tar road – they tend to make unexpected appearances!
Before you embark on this journey, a little heads-up: it’s a cash-only zone. The Owl House hasn’t embraced card machines yet, but Snapscan is at your service if you’re tech-savvy.
Location: Martins Street, Nieu-Bethesda, 6286
Contact: 049 841 1733
Website: theowlhouse.co.za
2. Bourke’s Luck Potholes
Picture: Facebook / @bourkesluck
The Panorama Route boasts numerous attractions, but Bourke’s Potholes undoubtedly stands as one of its crowning jewels.
The meticulously designed pathways guide visitors through varying vantage points, offering panoramic views of the unique potholes, serene waterfalls, and the tranquil flow of the river.
Location: Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, Moremela
Contact: 013 769 8926
3. The Goat Tower of Fairview Cheese & Wine Farm
In the backdrop of 1981, Charles Back, the visionary behind Fairview Wine and Cheese, eyed his flock of 750 Saanen goats and was struck with a novel idea: why not craft a structure for them to ascend? Thus, the now-iconic goat tower emerged. Constructed from sturdy brick and mortar, this two-story edifice with a metal rooftop, winding wooden stairs, and quaint windows quickly became a favourite for the goats to clamber and lounge in. As a nod to its cherished goats and the tower that has since become emblematic of the winery, Fairview introduced a wine aptly named “Goats do Roam,” cheekily alluding to the renowned Côtes du Rhône wine region in France. This pioneering tower laid the foundation, and soon, other wineries began erecting similar architectural marvels for their goats.
Location: Suid-Agter-Paarl Rd, Suider, Paarl, 7646
Contact: 021 863 2450
Website: fairview.co.za
4. Motouleng Caves
Nestled between the scenic towns of Clarens and Fouriesberg, amidst the rugged mountains of the eastern Free State and Lesotho, lie the Motouleng caves. Known as the ‘place of beating drums’, these expansive caverns, carved out by a rock fall within a limestone mountain, exude an otherworldly aura. More than just geological wonders, the caves resonate deeply with spiritual significance, serving as a sanctuary for local shamans.
Location: Motouleng Sacred Caves, Outside Clarens, Thabo Mofutsanyana, Free State, South Africa
5. Kaaimans Grotto
Picture: Facebook / @WildernessCavesWesterncape
Tucked away near the tranquil coastal enclave of Wilderness, South Africa, lies the enchanting Kaaimans Grotto, a place brimming with intrigue. To discover this gem, adventurers tread along an abandoned railway line, remnants of the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, which witnessed a tragic landslide in 2006.
A brief 700-meter journey from the parking area at the edge of Wilderness, past a tunnel, leads to this grotto. Once a sought-after train-accessible restaurant, it now stands as a haven of eclectic art and history, stewarded by Clifford and his companions, eager to share its tales.
The grotto, devoid of electricity but replete with amenities and a deck boasting unparalleled views, also offers a unique lodging experience for the intrepid traveller. While its surroundings, marked by an old railway bridge, provide a distinct walking adventure, visitors are urged to tread with care and preferably in groups, given the bridge’s fragile state and potential safety concerns.
Inside, the caves exude an ethereal aura, blurring the lines between a lived-in space and an artistic exhibit, making it an unmissable spot on any traveller’s itinerary.
Location: Sand street, Wilderness, South Africa
Contact: +27 81 248 9886
Website: Facebook
6. The KwaZulu-Natal Battlefields Routes
KwaZulu Natal, with its breathtaking landscapes and intricate rock formations, isn’t just a visual treat. It’s a land rich in history, echoing the battles and stories of yesteryears. The undulating plains and valleys of northern and central KwaZulu Natal, though serene now, have been the backdrop to many pivotal moments that have deeply influenced both South African and British narratives.
As you traverse these vast lands today, you might stumble upon remnants of stone forts or old graveyards. While they might seem like mere relics of the past, they stand as silent testimonials to the intense battles that once raged here. It was here that the Voortrekkers, in their quest to move away from British rule in the Cape Colony, clashed with the formidable Zulu kings. For the Zulus, this land, nestled between the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and the shimmering Indian Ocean, wasn’t just territory. It was their cherished ‘heaven on earth’.
So, as you wander through KwaZulu Natal, remember: every rock and every hill has a tale to tell. And it’s a tale of ambition, conflict, and the timeless beauty of this land.
7. The Big Hole
Picture: Getaway Gallery
For those with a penchant for history, the intricacies of mining, or simply an appreciation for monumental human achievements, the Kimberley Big Hole should be a definitive pin on your travel map of South African places you will fall in love with.
This iconic site stands as a profound testament to the region’s diamond mining legacy. Recognized as one of the most expansive hand-dug pits globally, it offers a window into the fervent mining frenzy that characterized the late 19th century diamond surge. The sheer scale of this man-made marvel, with its expansive cavity and looming edges, speaks volumes about the perseverance and grit of the miners of that era.
Location: Tucker Street, Kimberley, South Africa
Contact: 053 839 4600
Website: thebighole.co.za
8. Howick Falls
Picture: Getaway Gallery
This location is a refreshing oasis, offering not only natural beauty but also easy navigation with clear maps and informative signboards. Surrounding the impressive waterfall, local artisans showcase their crafts, from captivating art pieces to fashionable attire, ensuring visitors leave with a unique memento. Additionally, photographers stationed at the falls ensure that memories are perfectly captured for those who desire.
Location: Falls Dr, Howick, 3290
9. Biggest Chair in Africa
Rooiberg Winery offers a delightful experience beyond just wine tasting. The highlight for many is scaling Africa’s tallest red chair and adding a personal touch to the love lock wall. Since its installation in 2013, the monumental 9-meter tall chair, with its 4.5-meter high platform, beckons visitors for a unique picnic opportunity.
Location: Robertson Wine Valley. Rooiberg Wines
10. Tswaing Meteorite Crater
Picture: Nemeth/Star Productions/ Flickr Commons
The Tswaing Meteorite Crater, located about 50 km away, is a stunning testament to nature’s power, formed by a 50-meter celestial object, leaving behind a 1.3 km mark on Earth. For those with an adventurous spirit, the 7.2 km hike around and within this crater is a must, though one should be prepared for a somewhat steep climb and a few thorns along the way. This hidden gem, often overlooked by both local and global travellers, promises an escape from urban confines and a breath of fresh air. If planning a visit, allocate around three hours for the trek, and perhaps a bit more for a traditional braai.
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