1. Cruise on still waters
Knysna Lagoon, Western Cape
Anchors aweigh! The tranquil waters of Knysna Lagoon are perfect for a houseboat trip – and by heading out in September, you’ll beat the summer crowds.
2. Run for the train
The Great Train Race, Eastern Cape
The Apple Express steam train regularly trundles from Port Elizabeth to Thornhill. However, if you’re feeling active, pitch yourself against it in September’s Great Train Race – and see if you can outrun it all the way.
3. Take a tipple
Bosman Weekend, Groot Marico, North West Province
Herman Charles Bosman’s short story Willem Prinsloo’s Peach Brandy celebrates the potency of Groot Marico’s Mampoer (peach brandy). His legacy – and love of a good drink – is now honoured in an annual literary festival.
4. Journey to the past
Sterkfontein Caves, Gauteng
When archeologists stumbled across 3.5 million-year-old pre-human remains, Sterkfontein Caves were dubbed ‘The Cradle of Humankind’. The discovery is closely guarded, but it’s still possible to explore.
5. Join a royal celebration
The Royal Reed Dance, Nongoma, KwaZulu-Natal
This four-day celebration is a rite of passage for the young maidens of KwaZulu-Natal. It is a royal event, but visitors are made welcome.