Little-known travel gems that should be on your travel list

Last updated on 25th March, 2026 at 09:22 pm

Been to Cape Town, the Kruger Park and Zimbali, and looking for new holiday spots to explore? Take the road less travelled to discover five unforgettable South African gems that aren’t on your travel list but definitely should be.

Reading time: 4 minutes

In this article, you’ll learn:

• 5 fantastic travel destinations you might not have heard of
• Highlights and must-try’s in the area
• Travel discounts you don’t want to miss

The Waterberg region

Take a three-hour drive north from Johannesburg and you will be at the breathtaking Waterberg region in Limpopo which boasts rolling mountains, pristine rivers and an abundance of wildlife to enjoy during your visit. As a critical conservation area, you will enjoy the rare sight of free-roaming black and white rhinos and San art scattered around the area.

Highlight

Gallop through the Savanna. Saddle up and discover the untouched wilderness of the Savanna with a guided safari tour. On horseback you will explore the natural habitat and see a range of wild animals including giraffe, zebra, buffalo, sable and eland.

Nieu-Bethesda

Nestled in the Sneeuberg mountains, this off-grid village is famous for the Owl House, the eccentric outsider art installation created by Helen Martins, and for being one of the darkest sky destinations in South Africa, making it a magnet for stargazers.

Must try:

A visit to the Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre is a great outing for the whole family.

Golden Gate Highlands National Park

Tucked in the eastern Free State is the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The national park offers a feast to the eyes. Marvel at the majestic mountains of Maluti, tour the nooks and crannies of the Cathedral Cave or explore the vistas while hiking.

Must try:

Get transported back into time at the Basotho Cultural Village
Go on a tasty cultural journey with the Basotho people. Visit the village to share umqombothi with the chief, enjoy freshly harvested traditional food while you learn more about the history and culture of the Basotho people.

Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area

Sandwiched between two mountain ranges in the Eastern Cape, Baviaanskloof is part of the Cape Floral Region World Heritage Site, which most South Africans have never visited. The 200km gravel route through the kloof passes waterfalls, fynbos-covered peaks and gorges carved by ancient rivers. It’s ideal for 4×4 enthusiasts, birders and anyone craving the tonic of wilderness.

Highlights

Visit the magical Sewefontein Wild Fig Tree Forest and explore Damsekloof, a lush canyon with rockpools, chain ladders and giant stinkwoods.

Tsitsikamma:

Adventure seekers are spoiled for choice in Tsitsikamma. The region, two hours from Gqeberha, is the thrill-seekers dream. Sign up for everything from ziplining and canopy tours to kayaking.

Must try

Bungee jumping. Earn bragging rights by jumping off the world’s highest bridge at Bloukrans bridge.

Use your travel discounts

Sanlam Reality member? Don’t forget to use your FlySafair discount and Tempest Car Hire from as little as R360 per day!