11 Breathtaking Natural Landscapes in South Africa
It’s impossible to list every breathtaking natural landscape in South Africa in a single article, but this round-up is a pretty good indication of what to expect when visiting. From towering cliff faces to awe-inspiring oceanic stretches, here are 11 natural landscapes in South Africa you have to see.
Lisbon Falls, Mpumalanga
The Lisbon Falls are the highest waterfalls in the Mpumalanga province towering 94 metres (308 feet) high and are found on the Panorama Route just north of Graskop. The Falls crash down into a beautiful gorge and is a must-see attraction when in the area.
Destinations Unlocked:
Let our travel expert Stefano help you find your perfect Culture tripLooking for an expert's perspective?
Uncover my top 3 recommended places from each continent on the map.
CentralAmerica
1. Guatemala
An express adventure for those with limited time off. Prepare yourself incredible experiences. You will hike a volcano, visit mayan temples and witness a ceremony and take in beautiful colonial Antigua.Next
CentralAmerica
2. Belize
A quick trip not too far away for those seeking a relaxing mini break. You will have plenty of free time to relax but also some awesome activities to experience the rainforest and the caribbean sea. Next
CentralAmerica
3. Mexico
An exciting mini trip exploring the lesser known colonial towns of central Mexico. This is hte perfect trip for someone with limited time off and still wants to turn on explorer mode and do something different. SouthAmerica
1. Ecuador
A remarkable 8 days adventure through the Andes and the Amazon rainforest. The best choice for adventure seekers wishing to visit the 2 most iconic areas of South America, in only 1 week and no flights.Next
SouthAmerica
2. Peru
An alternative itinerary to classic Peru, from Cusco to Arequipa. This itinerary is great combination of highlights Cusco and Machu Picchu with the lesser known Arequipa and Colca Canyon. Europe
1. Italy
The ultimate Italian experience from the vibrant streets of Naples to the breathtaking sceneries of the Amalfi Coast followed by Matera and down to Puglia with its golden beaches, intense flavours and fascinating destinations.Next
Europe
2. Scotland
Embark on this great adventure starting from London all the way to Scotland with a true Scottish experience made of breathtaking sceneries, whisky tasting and ..lots of fun! Ideal for train lovers and explorers. Next
Europe
3. Portugal
A wonderful train journey around Portugal, from the romantic city of Porto to the Douro Valley, to the beautiful Aveiro all the way to Lisbon and Sintra. The perfect trip to train, culinary and culture lovers. Asia
1. South Korea
Discover incredible temples, mountains and modern cities on this 10 day adventure. This trip is perfect for those seeking immersion in the cuisine, culture and natural wonders of South Korea.Next
Asia
2. Thailand
From Bankgok to Angkor Wat to Ho Chi Minh City and everything in between - adventure through the heart of South-East Asia. Taste the delights, see history brought to life and unwind on a Mekong River cruise. Next
Asia
3. Sri Lanka
A fantastic adventure that showcases Sri Lanka's fantastic landscapes, wildlife and flavours. With 3 epic rail journeys, 3 UNESCO heritage sites and time to relax, this trip has loads to offer at a great price Africa
1. Morocco
An epic journey across Morocco: from Casablanca to Marrakech, through the blue city of Chefchaouen to the wonders of the desert and deep to the High Atlas Mountains - this trip has it all! Ideal for true explorers!Next
Africa
2. Egypt
From Cairo to Aswan, this trip brings the land of the pharaohs to life. You'll visit the Pyramids, Valley of the Kings and Luxor Temple and cruise down the Nile in style. This is the perfect way to explore Egypt. Next
Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal
The 24 kilometre (15 mile) long gorge is surrounded by tall sandstone cliffs and the area is ideal for hiking and birding. Check in for a night or two at The Oribi Gorge Nature Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal and soak in the breathtaking scenery.
The Valley of Desolation, Camdeboo National Park
A visit to The Valley of Desolation near Graaff-Reinet is the perfect excuse to veer off the main road and extend your road trip. The Camdeboo National Park also boasts rich fauna and flora and if you’re lucky you’ll spot the endangered Cape Mountain Zebra.
The Drakensberg Amphitheatre, KwaZulu-Natal
The Amphitheatre in the Northern Drakensberg is a geographical wonder and one of the most impressive cliff-faces on earth. Climb to the top of the Amphitheatre in less than two hours and take in the views stretching as far as the eye can see.
The Dolphin Coast, KwaZulu-Natal
The Dolphin Coast starts at the Tongaat River and ends in Zinkwazi Beach and includes popular holiday towns like Ballito, Umdloti and Salt Rock. This part of KwaZulu-Natal got its name due to the large schools of dolphins that frequent its waters.
|Ai-|Ais/Richtersveld Transfrontier Park
The /Ai/Ais – Richtersveld Transfrontier Park might not seem like much more than an arid-desert landscape but it boasts rich plant, bird, and animal life. Unbelievably, the park contains the world’s largest assortment of desert flora.
The Cederberg Mountains, Western Cape
Escaping to the Cederberg Mountains will guarantee getting off the grid completely. Situated approximately two hours from Cape Town, this is the ideal spot to stargaze and explore the beautiful natural surrounds. Follow one of the many hiking routes to reach viewing points and look out for pre-colonial rock art.
Tsitsikamma National Park, Garden Route
Tsitsikamma National Park, which forms part of the larger Garden Route National Park, encompasses over 80 kilometres (50 miles) of stunning coastline. The famous Storms River Suspension Bridge is a major attraction and there’s much to keep visitors busy, from mountain biking to birding, water activities and of course, hiking.
Cape Point, Western Cape
Cape Point is situated in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve within the Table Mountain National Park and boasts 7,750 hectares of rich fauna and flora, towering cliffs, coves and amazing sea views. Take the funicular to the top, or walk if your prefer, and take in the scenery from the Old Lighthouse.
Blyde River Canyon, Mpumalanga
The Blyde River Canyon is renowned as being the largest ‘green canyon’ in the world. Situated on the famous Panorama Route, the area is home to many waterfalls, boasts rich bird life and is a hiker’s paradise.
Cathedral Rock, Eastern Cape
Reaching Cathedral Rock, a free-standing rock formation with a hole through its middle, can only be done on foot. A guided hike takes visitors to this magnificent natural wonder as well as many other unknown spots in the area, from waterfalls to pools.
Volcanic Iceland Epic Trip
meet our Local Insider
Hanna
HOW LONG HAVE YOU BEEN A GUIDE?
2 years.
WHAT DO YOU LOVE ABOUT YOUR JOB?
It's the personal contact, the personal experiences. I love meeting people from all over the world... I really like getting to know everyone and feeling like I'm traveling with a group of friends.
WHAT DESTINATION IS ON YOUR TRAVEL BUCKET-LIST?
I have so many places on my list, but I would really lobe to go to Africa. I consider myself an “adventure girl” and Africa feels like the ULTIMATE adventure!
Every CULTURE TRIP Small-group adventure is led by a Local Insider just like Hanna.
KEEN TO EXPLORE THE WORLD?
Connect with like-minded people on our premium trips curated by local insiders and with care for the world
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.
