Berry picking is one of those simple joys that never gets old. There’s something special about the warmth of the sun, the scent of ripe fruit, and the satisfaction of filling your basket with fresh, just-picked goodness. Whether you’re out with the kids picking strawberries, indulging in blueberries for breakfast, or hunting for raspberries to turn into jam, it’s a farm-to-fork experience that’s even more rewarding when you’ve done the picking yourself.
South Africa offers a scattering of berry farms across provinces, many of them offering more than just fruit—think charming cafés, picnic spots, playgrounds, and even farm stays. Here’s where to head when berry season is in full swing.
Western Cape
Picture/Polkadraai Farm
Polkadraai Strawberry Farm – Stellenbosch (will reopen September 2025)
Season: October to December
Highlight: Family-friendly with tractor rides, food stalls, and a playground.
Activities: Enjoy tractor rides, pony rides, and local food stalls serving fresh juices and homemade jams.
A Cape Winelands favourite, Polkadraai is perfect for families with its fun-filled activities like pony rides and playgrounds. After picking your berries, relax with a homemade treat or shop for artisanal goods.
Redberry Farm – George (currently open as of May 1, 2025)
Season: September to January
Highlight: Maze, mini train rides, and a tea garden.
Activities: Explore the hedge maze, take a mini train ride, or attend a jam-making workshop.
This Garden Route gem is known for its giant hedge maze and family-friendly fun. After picking strawberries, enjoy a tea in the garden or learn how to make your own berry preserves.
Gauteng
Picture/What’s On In Cape Town
The Strawberry Farm – Hartbeespoort (open on weekends from late September, October, November to early December)
Season: September to December
Highlight: Berry picking and romantic log cabin stays.
Activities: Indulge in a strawberry-themed picnic or a spa treatment.
A picturesque getaway just outside Joburg, this farm offers romantic log cabin stays and a peaceful farm escape. Couples and families alike enjoy berry picking followed by a relaxing picnic or spa experience.
The Field Berry Farm – Walkerville, Johannesburg (picking currently closed for the season)
Season: January to April
Highlight: Raspberry picking with family-friendly activities.
Activities: Pick your own raspberries, enjoy live local music, explore the children’s bicycle track, or relax in the outdoor playground. The farm also offers homemade raspberry jams, craft beer, and frozen yoghurt at the farm stall.
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Mpumalanga
Picture/Terebinte Farm/Facebook
Terebinte Goose and Berry Farm – Graskop
Season: December to January
Highlight: A peaceful farm experience with blackberry picking and farm-fresh produce.
Activities: Pick ripe blackberries during the peak season, stroll through the picturesque farm, and interact with the free-range geese. Don’t miss the farm stall, offering fresh, locally grown produce and homemade goods, perfect for taking home a taste of the farm.
Eastern Cape
Picture/Mooihoek Farm
Mooihoek Strawberry Farm – Hankey, Eastern Cape (picking currently closed for the season)
Season: December to early January
Highlight: Family-friendly strawberry picking in the scenic Gamtoos Valley.
Activities: Pick your own strawberries by purchasing a tub at the farm stall, then head to the designated fields. Afterwards, relax at the Berry Barn kiosk with treats like strawberry smoothies, soft-serve ice cream, and boerewors rolls. The farm also offers a venue for weddings and functions throughout the year.
Limpopo
Picture/ iinfo TZANEEN
Blueberry Heights – Haenertsburg
Season: January to March
Highlight: Eco-conscious farming with a farm shop and events.
Activities: Enjoy forest hikes and support their eco-friendly practices.
Nestled in the Magoebaskloof mountains, Blueberry Heights boasts organic blueberries and eco-conscious practices. Enjoy a hike through the forest or shop for local berry-based treats at their farm store.
Free State
Picture/Tripadvisor
Bon-Af Berry Farm – Parys
Season: December to February
Highlight: Berry preserves, wine pairings, and berry tours.
Activities: Take a berry wine tasting tour or shop for homemade preserves.
Located in the artsy town of Clarens, Bon-Af offers a variety of berries along with berry wine tastings and tours. The town’s charm makes it a perfect stop for gourmet travellers.
Tips before you pick
- Berry seasons vary slightly each year depending on rainfall and temperature, so it’s always best to check each farm’s website or social media pages before visiting.
- Some charge an entrance fee or price your haul by weight.
- Bring sunscreen, a hat, and closed shoes—and don’t forget your reusable containers if they allow it.
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