You do not always have to follow the crowds to experience their magic.
Buffelsbaai from the air with Brenton on Sea in the background/South African Tourism/Wikimedia Commons
Some of the country’s quieter corners offer equally spectacular scenery, uncrowded trails and a slower way of travelling. Pairing iconic destinations with lesser-visited alternatives is a good way to see familiar landscapes from a different perspective, particularly if you have already ticked off the major attractions.
1. Plettenberg Bay to Nature’s Valley
Plettenberg Bay is one of the Garden Route’s biggest draws, but Nature’s Valley feels like its quieter cousin. Surrounded by indigenous forest, lagoon and coastline, the small settlement is a wonderful base for walking and birdwatching. The Salt River Mouth and Nature’s Valley Beach are particularly scenic, while trails through the forest provide a peaceful alternative to Plett’s busier attractions. Pack a picnic and allow yourself time to simply sit beside the lagoon.
2. St Lucia to iSimangaliso’s Western Shores
St Lucia is the gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and a popular base for boat cruises and wildlife excursions. For a quieter experience, head towards the Western Shores section of the park. The landscape shifts between wetlands, grasslands and coastal forest, with opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles and a remarkable variety of birdlife. The backroads also make for rewarding self-drive exploration, especially for travellers happy to trade a packed itinerary for patient wildlife watching.
3. Blyde River Canyon viewpoints to Mariepskop
The Blyde River Canyon is spectacular, but its famous viewpoints can become busy during peak travel periods. For a different perspective, consider the drive towards Mariepskop, one of the highest peaks in the area. The mountain offers dramatic views across the escarpment and Lowveld, with changing weather adding to the sense of wilderness. Check road conditions and access requirements before setting out, as mountain conditions can change quickly.
4. Hermanus to De Kelders
Hermanus is famous for whale watching, particularly during the southern right whale season, but De Kelders on the other side of Walker Bay provides another spectacular coastal vantage point. The rocky shoreline, caves and clifftop paths offer excellent opportunities for spotting marine life. Nearby Walker Bay Nature Reserve also provides a quieter setting for exploring the coastline. Visit outside peak whale season for a peaceful seaside escape, or come during whale season and enjoy the spectacle without staying in the busiest part of town.
5. Coffee Bay to Morgan Bay
Coffee Bay’s dramatic coastline and famous Hole in the Wall have made it an Eastern Cape favourite. Morgan Bay, further south, offers a similarly beautiful combination of cliffs, beaches and rolling green hills, but with a more tranquil atmosphere. The coastline is ideal for walks, while nearby Double Mouth Nature Reserve provides hiking and camping opportunities. It is the kind of place where the scenery does most of the entertaining.
6. Addo Main Camp to Darlington
Addo Elephant National Park’s main section is the obvious choice for first-time visitors, but Darlington offers a very different park experience. Situated in the Karoo section of the park, it has wide-open landscapes and a quieter atmosphere. The scenery shifts from dense thicket to dry plains, demonstrating just how diverse Addo’s ecosystems are. It is a good option for travellers who have already explored the main camp and want to discover another side of the park.
7. Drakensberg Amphitheatre to Garden Castle
The Amphitheatre is one of the Drakensberg’s most recognisable landscapes, but Garden Castle offers equally impressive mountain scenery with fewer crowds. Located in the southern Drakensberg, it is a base for hikes through grasslands, valleys and dramatic sandstone formations. Trails range from shorter walks to challenging mountain routes, making it easy to spend a full day exploring at your own pace.
8. Cape Point to Olifantsbos and Buffels Bay
Cape Point is one of the Cape Peninsula’s essential stops, but there is more to the surrounding reserve than its famous lighthouse. Olifantsbos has a wilder, more secluded feel, with a rugged beach and shipwreck history, while Buffels Bay offers a sheltered spot for swimming and picnicking. Take your time on the reserve’s quieter roads and keep an eye out for wildlife along the way.
The appeal of these alternatives is not that the famous destinations are overrated. Quite the opposite. They are popular for good reason. But South Africa’s landscapes are extensive, and sometimes the best way to appreciate them is to take the road less travelled, slow down and let the scenery come to you.
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