WEEKEND REPORTER|Published
A year is a very small thing when planning your next trip. Accommodation, entertainment, and food are easy to arrange once you’ve decided where to go, what to see, and what to do.
Leave the hustle and bustle of big cities behind, here we are talking about a place where you can relax, rejuvenate yourself, drink cocktails under the shade of the sun without panicking.
Whether you wish to see wild animals, beautiful places where you will find a clean and unique sea, the beauty of the mountains that you can climb any time of the year as well as places that give you a special lesson in art and culture, these unpopular places promise to travel without hesitation, real taste and a refreshing break from city life.
St Lucia: The beauty of nature meets the beauty of the sea
Where the sea meets the forest, St Lucia is perfect for friends who like different things, but want to travel together. It is located within Simangaliso Wetland Park. St Lucia is one of the most unique places in South Africa. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it offers a rare opportunity to enjoy the fusion of a safari and the sea. You can choose to go on a boat trip in the St Lucia Estuary and see hippos, crocodiles and lots of beautiful birds. You just walk along the beautiful beach where you will enter and dance well while swimming where there are also people selling good things that will be a souvenir of the good time when you return home. You can go out on the beach in the afternoon, organize yourself well before going on a night safari and see wild animals roaming freely – even on the streets of the cities you are surprised to come across them hustling with you in search of food.
Divided – Home of the Big Five
For a real safari, Hluhluwe is hard to beat. It serves as the gateway to the famous Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park, declared to be the oldest national park in Africa.
The park is world famous for its conservation efforts, especially in saving the white rhinoceros.
Visitors can enjoy viewing the Big Five at any time, but it’s best during the dry winter months when wildlife congregates at waterholes.
Beyond the safari, Hluhluwe is one of the places rich in cultural knowledge of traditional Zulu villages and visits to animal rehabilitation centers, making it educational and fun.
Ramsgate – Cool off on the beach
For a quieter alternative to the South Coast, Ramsgate is a peaceful seaside escape.
Its Blue Flag beach is clean, safe and lined with greenery, making it perfect for families and relaxed beach days.
Nature lovers can explore the Ramsgate Whale Deck for occasional whale watching or walk along the beautiful coastal paths.
With nearby attractions such as the Butterfly Farm and craft areas, Ramsgate combines natural beauty with a charming village feel.
Howick – The beauty of the falls of culture and heritage
Deep in the Midlands Meander, is where you’ll find Howick. It is a place that should be visited by people who have a sense of renewal, people who like to pray and analyze their feelings and things that happen in their life. Howick Falls is a waterfall that gives you the opportunity to do all of the above. This waterfall is 95 meters high – it is the centerpiece of the city and does not change with the changing seasons.
History buffs can enjoy visiting the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, where Nelson Mandela was arrested in 1962.
Beyond its heritage, Howick can delight you with water sports at Midmar Dam and the produce of the Karkloof Farmers Market and easy access to art on the Midlands Meander.
I-Underberg – iyisango eliya eDrakensberg
At the bottom of the large park Khahlamba-Drakensberg Park, you will find the Underberg which is a place for nature lovers and those looking for an unusual fun experience.
The town is well known as the gateway to the Sani Pass, a spectacular mountain pass that leads into Lesotho.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, fishing, horseback riding and mountain biking.
The Underberg also hosts popular events such as Splashy Fen, whose tranquil setting makes it equally attractive to those looking to relax and take in the beauty of nature.