South Africa may be known for its stunning safaris, world-class golf and outstanding wine regions, but for many it’s one of the world’s ultimate adventure travel destinations. Home to national parks, sweeping savannahs and picture perfect beaches, the Rainbow Nation also boasts a great climate and offers value for money for visitors. In this guide we look at the top adventure activities to enjoy in South Africa.
Graskop Gorge Lift Company
Visitors looking for a leisurely experience should head to Graskop Gorge Lift Company, whose viewing lift takes visitors 51m down the face of the gorge into the indigenous forest of western South Africa. More adventurous guests can also experience the suspension bridge, zipline and the big swing, free-falling for 70m into the forest in three seconds. See more at graskopgorgeliftcompany.co.za
All Out Adventures
For family fun, All Out Adventures has a wide range of entertainment for everyone to enjoy. It features quad bikes, zip lines, target shooting, bungees and trapeze jumping, as well as more than 80km of exclusive single track mountain bike and trail running with the backdrop of the stunning Northern Drakensberg Mountains. See more at alloutadventures.co.za
Captivate the Cape Hiking Tours
For those looking to explore the mountains surrounding the city, Captivate the Cape caters to all abilities. This female and South African-owned business offers tours of Lion’s Head, Table Mountain, Platteklip Gorge and many more. Trusted guide Fatima Sait is a qualified and registered mountain adventure guide and first aider, who is in prime position to ensure you leave South Africa “captivated by the cape”. See more at captivatethecape.co.za
Leeto Experience
Travellers looking for adventure with a touch of luxury need look no further than Leeto Experience. Think chauffeur-driven Jeeps, off-road excursions, luxury sky camping with elevated panoramic views, sunset boat cruises and delectable meals prepared by private chefs. Leeto allows guests to fully immerse themselves in the outdoor world while still having access to luxury conveniences. See more at leetoexperience.com
Ocean Ventures
The team at Ocean Ventures in Durban take visitors out on the water to cruise over a 1940s shipwreck in kayaks or on a clear day to gaze through the turquoise water at the Vetjies Reef on paddle boards. Surfing and non-water based activities are also available. See more at oceanventures.co.za
Rocklands
For active holidaymakers who want to push themselves while being surrounded by the stunning South African landscapes, bouldering in Cederberg is the place to be. Rocklands is home to three internationally renowned bouldering destinations, where vibrant orange sandstone juts into the bright blue sky above. See more at rocklands.africa
Aliwal Diving Centre and Lodge
Aliwal Shoal is one of the few places in the world where divers can get up close and personal with oceanic blacktip sharks all year round and tiger sharks in the summer season in the open ocean. This activity is not for the faint of heart, but Aliwal Diving Centre and Lodge allows guests to come face to face with these apex predators in the Indian Ocean. See more at aliwalshoal.co.za and padi.com
Soweto Towers
Visitors looking for an introduction to the world of adrenaline in Johannesburg can head to Soweto Towers. This vertical adventure centre prides itself on its thrilling activities such as bungee jumping, scad freefalling and paintballing. See more at sowetotowers.co.za
Adventure Skydives
For those who fear nothing, skydiving in the Free State with Adventure Skydives could tick all the boxes. Only an hour from Johannesburg, this destination offers spectacular views over the Vaal Dam and is known as the best skydiving destination in South Africa. See more at adventureskydives.com
Top image: hiking in the Drakensberg mountains (credit: southafrica.net)