LOCAL TRAVEL
blue crane and wattled crane among its notable inhabitants. The open landscapes, rolling hills, and peaceful wetlands reveal a completely different side of South Africa’ s natural beauty.
It’ s an ideal destination for travellers who prefer quiet escapes to busy tourist attractions. Spend your time walking, photographing wildlife, or simply soaking up the silence.
DE HOOP NATURE RESERVE, WESTERN CAPE Although increasingly popular, De Hoop still feels wonderfully untouched compared with many coastal destinations.
August falls within whale-watching season, but visitors can also explore towering sand dunes, cycle through the reserve, follow its hiking trails, or relax on pristine beaches. Keep an eye out for bontebok, Cape mountain zebra, and ostriches wandering across the reserve.
The meeting of turquoise ocean and endless white dunes creates scenery to rival some of the world’ s most famous coastal destinations.
RIETVLEI NATURE RESERVE, GAUTENG Just minutes from central Pretoria, Rietvlei Nature Reserve proves that you don’ t always have to travel far to enjoy nature.
Home to rhino, buffalo, zebra, wildebeest, and hundreds of bird species, it’ s an easy day trip for families and weekend adventurers.
August’ s generally dry conditions makes game viewing particularly rewarding, while the reserve’ s scenic driving routes allow you to enjoy a safari experience without committing to a multi-day trip.
Bring binoculars and don’ t rush. The slower you drive, the more wildlife you are likely to discover.
MKHOMBO NATURE RESERVE, MPUMALANGA Situated around the shores of Mkhombo Dam, Mkhombo Nature Reserve remains one of Mpumalanga’ s quieter escapes.
Waterbirds fill the skies, antelope graze nearby, and boating offers a different perspective of the reserve. Fishing enthusiasts will also find plenty to keep them occupied, while photographers will appreciate the reflections across the calm water in the early morning. IB
24 INBOUND SA / AUGUST 2026