14 Life-Changing Experiences You Can Only Have in South Africa

South Africa is known for its unforgettable safaris and a trip to the Kruger National Park won’t disappoint. Many have experienced the ultimate joy of spotting all of the Big Five (lion, buffalo, leopard, elephant and rhino) in a single trip. Book a few days in the park and head out on game views at sunrise and dusk, as this is when animals are most active.
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The Bloukrans Bungy jump is the highest bridge bungy in the world and at 216 metres it’s enough to get any adrenaline junkie excited. For many the walk underneath the bridge, towards the jump base, is the most daunting part of the experience. Needless to say, the views into the Bloukrans River Valley are out of this world.
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In spring, after the rains, Namaqua National Park is covered in fields of colour when the wild flowers go into bloom. More than 3500 species of plants dominate the park and the display is a spectacular site to see. To get the most out of your visit a 4×4 vehicle is your best option, and remember to pack essentials as the park is remote with the closest town being approximately 51 kilometres (32 miles) away.

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Southern Right whales frequent South African waters each year from July to December, and the small town of Hermanus near Cape Town is the prime whale watching spot. If you’d like to get even closer to these giants go on a kayak tour with Walker Bay Adventures. Apart from whales there’s a rich sea life in the bay and you’re bound to spot dolphins, seals and penguins as well.

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The Cradle of Humankind is the richest hominin fossil site in Africa and boasts many caves and archaeological sites across thirteen locations. From exploring the fascinating Sterkfontein Caves to visiting the Maropeng Visitor Centre, a trip to the Cradle of Humankind is an eye-opening experience.

Table Mountain offers adrenaline junkies more than 900 climbing and hiking routes for every level of fitness. But, if you’d rather reach the top in comfort, jump on the cable car and enjoy the views all the way up. This is a popular tourist attraction and it gets busy fast, so buy tickets online or plan your trip out of season.

The Maloti Drakensberg Park offers guests some of the most amazing and uninterrupted scenery in the country and with it some of the best hiking routes. Choose a trail and get ready to spot wildlife and visit historical San rock art sites.

Sani Pass, situated between KwaZulu-Natal and Lesotho, is the most treacherous yet scenic gravel mountain route in South Africa. The pass starts at 1544 meters (5065 feet) and summits at 2876 meters (9435 feet), so the weather can be unpredictable and if you’re there at the right time it might snow. Booking through a tour operator will ensure your vehicle is in tip-top shape to take on the journey.

As far as life changing experiences go, it doesn’t get much better than this. Being immersed into the ocean with a massive Great White gliding inches away from you, immediately has an impact on a person, and not in a life-threatening, frightening way. However aggressive they might seem in Hollywood films, they’re exceptionally gentle in the water and unlike anything you’ll ever see again. Head to Gansbaai and book a trip through Marine Dynamics.