Tried & Tested Holiday Favorites, Done Differently
Finding the best holiday destinations when planning your next getaway can be difficult, and you want to be sure that you make the right choice! But where in South Africa are the best places to go on holiday? Are you looking for fun-filled family holiday destinations, a short romantic getaway with a loved one or the best places to visit this December?
With so many accommodation options available – plus so many great places to visit - you want to make the right choice for a top holiday destination while getting the best value for your money.
Thompsons Holidays has more than 40 years of experience in sourcing the best holiday destinations in South Africa and internationally - at the best possible prices. We have a wide range of packages including the best places to visit in December.
Here are some suggestions for the best places to go on holiday.
The Drakensberg
The Drakensberg is ideally situated between Johannesburg and Durban and equally easy to access from other parts of the country – and well worth the drive. This is a vast area of immense beauty with a range of hikes to suit most ages and levels of fitness. There are a number of superb resorts and self-catering lodges with a host of daily activities for the kids.
Do it differently: Why not consider one of our flexible private trips with your friends or family? These guided experiences take all the travel stresses off your back, leaving you time to enjoy the downtime.
Western Cape
The Western Cape is particularly popular over the December holidays with great weather and world-class beaches. Cape Town offers endless activities from the summit of Table Mountain to the vibrant V&A Waterfront. The Cape Winelands and the Overberg move at a slower pace – like the Wine Tram in Franschhoek which takes in many wineries with family activities and picnics. One of our favourite Cape Town December holiday experiences is visiting Boulders Beach penguin colony, then enjoying a day out in Cape Point Nature Reserve.
Do it differently: Consider booking your own private apartment in the V&A Waterfront area – you get to do things at your own pace, but still be close to the hustle and bustle!
Mpumalanga
The province abounds with game parks including the famous Kruger National Park – and the more exclusive Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve - but there is much more to do than just game viewing. The Panorama Route takes you to breathtaking view sites on the escarpment, cascading waterfalls and the quaint mining town of Pilgrims Rest which has been lovingly restored – why not try your hand at gold panning before hitting the saloon for refreshments.
Do it differently: Discover the private reserves on the edge of the Kruger – you'll enjoy smaller camps and lodges (ideal for social distancing) and experienced guided game viewing.
Limpopo
The aptly named Wolkberg is the northern extent of the Drakensberg, and can be found between Tzaneen and Haenertsberg. There are extensive walks in the forests at Magoebaskloof with refreshing waterfalls at Debengeni.
Do it differently: Get away from it all and enjoy a nature-based trip into the Waterberg region, well known for its natural beauty and wonderful wildlife experiences.
North West
This province is home to many malaria-free game reserves, such as Madikwe Private Game Reserve and Pilanesberg Game Reserve, which makes it ideal for family-friendly safari holidays. In addition, the North West is also home to the vibrant resort of Sun City, which is well known for fun-filled activities, family accommodation and plenty of things to do. Sun City is also easily accessible from Johannesburg and Pretoria for weekend getaways.
Do it differently: Take a group of friends or a larger family group and book out a private safari villa or self-catering lodge in one of the reserves; you’ll enjoy all the benefits of a family safari but safely social distancing!
KwaZulu-Natal
KZN is one of our favourite holiday destinations with miles of sandy beaches, game parks and the famous Isimangaliso Wetland Park, which includes Lake St. Lucia and Kosi Bay. Do not overlook the historic Battlefields where Boer, Brit and Zulu clashed with astonishing outcomes. The Midlands Meander takes you through charming hamlets in rolling countryside with many attractions along the way. If you’re looking for fun in the sun, the South Coast is a beach playground for families and Durban and Umhlanga are old favourites for those who want to mix beach with cuisine, shopping and culture.
Do it differently: Treat yourself with a night or two at The Oyster Box hotel in Umhlanga before heading off into the wilderness for a spacious and relaxed family break.
Free State
The eastern Free State is a popular destination for weekend breaks and short holidays combined with hiking, golf, horse riding and fishing. Clarens is a bustling town especially over weekends as is Parys on the Vaal River nearer to Johannesburg.
Do it differently: If you’re keen on a nature-focused weekend, consider a scenic drive through the beautiful Golden Gate National Park.
Eastern Cape
The Eastern Cape is a much more rugged province with game farms, beach resorts and historic towns. Some of the beaches are quiet and secluded and appeal to those wanting a relaxed holiday but the bright lights can be found at Port Elizabeth and East London. The old harbour on the Kowie River in Port Alfred is now a mini waterfront and there are fun excursions on the river.
Do it differently: The Eastern Cape is also home to a variety of malaria-free game reserves, ideal for a lovely family safari getaway.
Northern Cape
Visit the impressive Augrabies Falls near Upington and take in the diverse agriculture of the area which includes fine export table grapes and dried fruit. The hot springs near the falls are not to be missed! If you’re travelling near Kimberley, consider a diamond town tour – the historic significance is facinating!
Do it differently: With Namibia opening more border posts to boost its tourism economy, why not combine a trip to the Northern Cape with an adventure in southern Namibia?
If you’re looking for a much-loved South Africa holiday destination for your next getaway, there is much to choose from and even more on offer. Chat to us on Whatsapp or on live chat to find the best experience for you and your family this December.