1. Take a four-legged safari
Clarens, Free State
With swimmable river-pools en route and chance encounters with wild game, the horse-riding trails around Clarens are not to be missed. Venture out to the Drakensberg Escarpment for sweeping views of Lesotho.
2. Go turtle tracking
iSimangaliso Wetland Park, KwaZulu-Natal
From November to March, rare loggerhead and leatherback turtles return to the coastline to nest and lay their eggs. Catch a glimpse on a nighttime beach tour.
3. Hunt down a bargain
Salt River, Cape Town, Western Cape
The Neighbourgoods Market is a Saturday staple for Capetonians. Fill your bags with local produce, artisan crafts and unique fashion pieces – the perfect start to a lazy city weekend.
www.neighbourgoodsmarket.co.za
4. Find a home-from-home
Karoo, Eastern Cape
Deep in sheep farming country, you’ll find warm hospitality at even the most remote of outposts. Country families often open up their doors to paying guests – visit now, and you’ll beat the December tourist rush.
5. Discover the wild side
Wild Coast, Eastern Cape
The Wild Coast’s population is almost completely Xhosa, and this is one of the most welcoming places to experience rural South African life. Most hostels and hotels can organise home stays or village visits.
