Uncover the travel spots favored by locals in South Africa

With its diverse attractions, South Africa is a paradise for those who love to explore. From breathtaking wildlife experiences to lively food and wine scenes, along with a wealth of history and culture, you'll find plenty to keep you engaged.

While the charm of major cities like Cape Town, Durban, and Johannesburg is undeniable—offering endless restaurants, museums, and sports events—where can you go to escape the crowds and relax?

Stepping away from the frenetic pace of urban life, we've gathered tips from three South African experts to help you vacation like a local, discovering the country's varied landscapes and rich cultural heritage.

Experience wine tasting, nature walks, and farm-to-table cuisine along Route 62: Montagu

Melanie van Zyl, a Johannesburg native, has spent her life exploring Southern Africa.

Growing up, my family often embarked on road trips. My parents ran a 4WD rental business, taking us across South Africa to deliver cars, gather supplies, and discover new places. One of our cherished journeys was along Route 62, reminiscent of America's iconic Route 66.

Montagu, a delightful town, serves as the starting point of this scenic route and is also where my parents have settled, making every visit a joyful occasion.

Nestled in the mountains, this charming town offers stylish accommodations, tranquil wine tastings, and delicious farm cuisine. It's no wonder trendy Capetonians flock here for a weekend escape, just a three-hour drive away. Lodgings vary from sleek country cabins like Suidster and Wolwehoek to minimalist art-centric retreats like Stil. The whimsical art-deco Montagu Country Hotel in the town center is a beloved choice, featuring a cozy spa and tourism hub. Across from the hotel, the Montagu Bookshop is a regular stop for me to explore the shelves.

Our family has recently fallen in love with Kapokbos at Weltevrede Wine Estate for its delightful culinary offerings, while Springfield is our preferred spot for exceptional wines in a breathtaking outdoor setting on sunny days. We never miss a chance to visit the Cape Dry Factory Store for padkos (snacks) and budget-friendly wines from nearby farms like Excelsior and De Wetshof, or to grab a cappuccino with stunning views at BluVines Bistro. The Montagu Museum provides a wonderful (if compact) opportunity to delve into the town's history and South Africa's rich past. For something unique, we join guided history tours led by the enthusiastic local, Marchelle van Zyl, for her captivating ghost tour of the streets on bicycles.

Indulging in seafood and sunshine along the Garden Route: Knysna

Jabulile Ngwenya is a writer and copywriter based in Cape Town.

Years ago, I set off on a road trip around the edge of South Africa, leading me to the Garden Route—a 200km coastal expanse from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Stormsrivier in the Eastern Cape. The drive from Cape Town offers a stunning backdrop of charming towns, rugged coastlines, pristine sandy beaches, lush forests, mountains, gorges, lakes, and rivers. There’s always something to admire, even if you miss spotting the famous southern right whales and dolphins that frequent this route.

Along the way, you'll find stops like Oudtshoorn, renowned for its ostrich farms; Hermanus, a hotspot for whale watching; Plettenberg Bay, often referred to as the Hamptons of the Cape; and Wilderness, a paradise for birdwatchers. Yet, Knysna, with its picturesque lagoon and verdant forests, is my favorite. Every July, it hosts an oyster festival where you can shuck oysters and savor the local seafood. My top choice is the Dry Dock Food Company, where their grilled seafood platter with prawns, served with rice, fries, and South African Chenin Blanc, is a must-try. Don’t miss out on the snoek fish—it's a beloved South African staple.

December, affectionately called 'Dezemba' by South Africans, is another fantastic time to visit. It marks the festive season's kickoff, and with our Rugby World Cup victory, this year promises to be particularly jubilant. As summer peaks, there’s no better escape from the bustling city (and high prices) than Knysna. If you’re looking to indulge, I recommend Buccara Lindsay Castle in Knysna, a luxurious hotel perched on the cliffs above Noetzie Beach. For a beautiful yet more budget-friendly option, consider Amanzi Island Boutique, which offers stunning views of the lagoon and Knysna Heads.

Seeking tranquility in the Eastern Cape: Kasouga

Linathi Mikanda is a South African writer, poet, and photographer whose journeys take her across the African continent.

As you journey through South Africa's Eastern Cape province—the country's largest—you come to a humbling realization: you are just a small part of a vast and diverse landscape. Known for its sprawling rural vistas, native forests, unspoiled beaches, and towering mountains, this province encourages you to embrace a more relaxed pace of life. For me, the coastal village of Kasouga, recognized as the region's oldest resort, is the ideal place to do just that.

Oribi Haven, a tranquil coastal farm located under 1km from the main road and near the beach, provides a perfect escape for those wanting to unwind from urban life. Within this quaint retreat, The Guineafowl Cottage can host four guests, offering breathtaking views of both the farm and the ocean from its deck. Host Jenny Currie, passionate about wildlife, will introduce you to around 135 Oribi—small indigenous antelopes that roam freely on the property. The farm also offers a variety of activities for guests, including leisurely picnics, fishing, walking and driving tours, and even the excitement of sandboarding.

In Kasouga, known for its close-knit community, residents actively support local enterprises, particularly the eateries along the nearby Route 72, where you can find everything from wineries and well-stocked farm shops to inviting pubs and upscale dining options.