Winter may not be everyone’s favourite season, but South Africa has plenty of activities and destinations that will make you forget all about the chilly weather. From skiing to whale watching, there’s something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ll take a look at some fun things to do in South Africa during winter activities in each province.
Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape is known for its stunning beaches, but during the winter months, it’s all about whale watching. Head to the coast to see the majestic southern right whales as they migrate to warmer waters to mate and give birth.
Great accommodation in the Eastern Cape
Free State
While the Free State may not be known for its skiing, it’s still possible to hit the slopes in this province. Tiffindell Ski Resort is South Africa’s only ski resort and is located in the picturesque Drakensberg Mountains. With plenty of ski runs and breathtaking views, it’s a great winter destination.
Great accommodation in the Free State
Gauteng
Gauteng may be South Africa’s smallest province, but it’s home to plenty of winter activities. One of the most popular is ice skating at The Ice Rink in Fourways. This indoor rink is open year-round and is the perfect place to escape the winter chill.
Great accommodation in Gauteng
- Courtyard Hotel Waterfall City
- Courtyard Hotel Sandton
- Courtyard Hotel Rosebank
- Courtyard Hotel Arcadia, Pretoria
- City Lodge Hotel OR Tambo International Airport
- City Lodge Hotel Waterfall City, Midrand
- City Lodge Hotel Fourways
- City Lodge Hotel Eastgate
- City Lodge Hotel Johannesburg, Barbara Rd
- City Lodge Hotel Newtown
- City Lodge Hotel Lynnwood, Pretoria
- City Lodge Hotel Hatfield, Pretoria
- Town Lodge Johannesburg Airport
- Town Lodge Roodepoort
- Town Lodge Waterfall, Midrand
- Town Lodge Menlo Park, Pretoria
- Road Lodge Carnival City
- Road Lodge Germiston Lake
- Road Lodge Isando
- Road Lodge Johannesburg Airport
KwaZulu-Natal
KwaZulu-Natal is known for its warm weather year-round, but during the winter months, it’s all about the Midlands Meander. This scenic route takes you through rolling hills and picturesque towns, with plenty of opportunities for shopping, eating, and exploring along the way.
Great accommodation in KwaZulu-Natal
- City Lodge Hotel Umhlanga Ridge
- Town Lodge Umhlanga
- Road Lodge Umhlanga Ridge
- Road Lodge Durban
- Road Lodge Pietermaritzburg
Limpopo
Limpopo is a province known for its rich cultural heritage, diverse wildlife, and stunning natural landscapes. The region is home to various ethnic groups, including the Venda, Tsonga, and Pedi, contributing to its vibrant cultural tapestry. Visitors to Limpopo can immerse themselves in the beauty of the iconic Kruger National Park, explore the ancient rock art at Makapansgat Valley, or marvel at the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon.
Great accommodation in Limpopo
Mpumalanga
Mpumalanga is home to some of South Africa’s most stunning natural attractions, including the Blyde River Canyon and Kruger National Park. During the winter months, the park is less crowded, making it the perfect time to spot the Big Five.
Great accommodation in Mpumalanga
North West
The North West is home to the Sun City Resort, which offers a range of winter activities, including indoor and outdoor pools, a casino, and a golf course. There’s also a wide range of restaurants and bars, making it the perfect place to escape the winter blues. If you’re an avid birder, animal enthusiast or photographer, the Pilanesberg National Park offers big game viewing in a malaria-free environment.
Great accommodation in the North West
Northern Cape
The Northern Cape may be South Africa’s largest province, but it’s also one of its most sparsely populated. During the winter months, the Augrabies Falls National Park is a must-visit destination. With stunning waterfalls and plenty of hiking trails, it’s a great place to enjoy the natural beauty of South Africa.
Great accommodation in the Northern Cape
Western Cape
The Western Cape is known for its wine and food, and during the winter months, it’s all about the Franschhoek Winter Wines Festival. This annual event takes place in June and offers visitors the chance to sample some of South Africa’s best wines while enjoying the stunning scenery of the Franschhoek Valley.
Great accommodation in the Western Cape
- City Lodge Hotel Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
- City Lodge Hotel GrandWest, Cape Town
- City Lodge Hotel Pinelands, Cape Town
- Town Lodge Bellville
There are loads of things to do in South Africa during winter
As you can see, there’s no shortage of fun things to do in South Africa during winter. Whether you’re looking for skiing, whale watching, or wine tasting, there’s something for everyone. And if you’re planning a winter getaway, be sure to book your stay at one of the City Lodge Hotels brands in the province of your choice. With comfortable accommodations and convenient locations, you’ll have everything you need for an unforgettable winter vacation.