LOCAL TRAVEL
In September, heritage takes centre stage. Across all nine provinces, safaris are a major tourism drawcard, but they offer more than an adventure. They can also be heritage experiences.
WESTERN CAPE If you venture past Cape Town, you’ ll find hidden spots like Kagga Kamma. Botlierskop near Mossel Bay blends mountain views with wildlife, and Rooiberg Lodge near Robertson offers a quiet escape into the wild.
Beyond the safari,! Khwa ttu San Heritage Centre honours San culture, while Cape Point for a journey through part of the UNESCO-recognised Cape Floral Kingdom and a coastline marked by shipwrecks. Farther north, the Cederberg shelters ancient rock art among its rugged cliffs.
LIMPOPO Enter Kruger through its northern gates and you will find a quieter experience than in the busy south. Look out for elephants, buffalo, rare antelope, and ancient baobabs. Within the park, Thulamela’ s stone ruins provide a window into an earlier civilisation. Private reserves such as Welgevonden add luxury accommodation and Big Five sightings.
Beyond the safari, discover Mapungubwe’ s royal graves and gold artefacts, the sacred waters of Lake Fundudzi, and the Modjadji Cycad Reserve, associated with the legendary Rain Queens.
MPUMALANGA Here, safari takes centre stage. Southern Kruger and private reserves like Sabi Sands and Timbavati are premier Big Five destinations. Dramatic escarpments, thriving wildlife, and world-class lodges make Mpumalanga unforgettable.
Beyond the safari, take in the Panorama Route’ s sweeping views, explore the echoing chambers of the Sudwala Caves, or encounter Kaapsehoop’ s wild horses, which have become part of the identity of the highland town.
NORTH WEST Pilanesberg is set within an ancient volcanic landscape, where varied habitats elephants, lions, and a broad range of other wildlife. Its unusual geology make the landscape almost as compelling as the animals.
BONUS HIGHLIGHT: The Hermanus Whale Festival, taking place from 2 to 4 October 2026, celebrates the annual return of southern right whales.
GAUTENG Skylines and restless activity define Gauteng, yet wilderness survives here too. Dinokeng Game Reserve, just outside Pretoria, is Gauteng’ s only Big Five game reserve. Its self-drive routes, bush walks, and picnic spots are a reminder that safari is never far from the city.
Beyond the safari, explore Cullinan’ s miningtown charm, Soweto’ s Vilakazi Street, the Apartheid Museum, and the Cradle of Humankind, with its fossils, caves, and interactive journey through human origins at Maropeng.
Beyond the safari, visit the Taung fossil site, discover Hartbeespoort Dam’ s blend of engineering and leisure, or explore the Anglo-Boer War stories preserved at Mafikeng Museum.
FREE STATE Golden Gate Highlands isn’ t a traditional safari destination. It is more about connecting with nature, hiking beneath sandstone cliffs, and watching wildlife graze in the valleys.
Beyond the wildlife, visit the Basotho Cultural Village inside Golden Gate, explore the natural and archaeological heritage of Willem Pretorius Game Reserve, or take in the scale of Gariep Dam.
EASTERN CAPE Addo Elephant National Park has a long history of conservation and is now famous for its large elephant herds. Private reserves like Shamwari and
SEPTEMBER 2026 / INBOUND SA 29