Tour These Towns This Heritage Month: A Bucket List for South Africa in September
South Africa embraced Heritage Month this September and as the flowers bloom anew in spring, so too do the quaint little towns dotted around our country. Heritage is all about one’s culture and history and this month, each individual remembers where they come from and how that paves the path to where they are going.
Each province in South Africa promises something completely different to the next. Some are rich in artistic scenes, others in historical significance. But, each boasts a town that is perfect to celebrate your heritage this September and beyond.
The Jewel of the Free State
Clarens is a quaint town situated in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains. Known for its artistic nature and breathtaking landscapes, it is perfect for remembering the unique creatives that South Africa has homed. From here, one can explore the Golden Gate Highlands National Park or sip on a coffee overlooking the surrounding mountain range at one of the many local restaurants like Clementine’s Restaurant and Bar or The Courtyard Bakery and Café. Book lovers can visit the most popular shop in Clarens, Bibliophile, whilst art lovers can visit one of the many galleries. Additionally, adrenaline junkies can experience white river rafting, mountain biking, quad biking or a hot air balloon ride. Afterwards, they can always taste beer at the Clarens Brewery as a cool-down.
Digging for Diamonds in the Northern Cape
Everyone knows South Africa is known for its glittering diamonds, but if you really want to dig into the history behind it, Kimberley is the unique town home to the famous Big Hole. Besides this environmentally significant structure, Kimberley is also home to many historical museums like the Sol Plaatjie House Museum and Library, the Mine Museum and the Magersfontein Battlefield Museum. There is also the Mokala National Park for those who would like to get their fill of nature, or the William Humphrey’s Art Gallery for a bit of wonder.
Go Wild for Wilderness in Limpopo
Are you a nature fanatic or an animal lover? If so, the urbanised town of Polokwane is perfect for you. It’s home to a diverse range of wildlife that can be found in the Polokwane Game Reserve or the Polokwane Bird and Reptile Park. Scenic views of untouched wilderness can be seen whilst abseiling, ziplining, horse riding or from an aerial cable trail. Further to this, the Bakone Malapa Open Air Museum is another must-visit attraction that pays homepage to South African culture.
Wine and Dine in the Western Cape
Famous worldwide for its delicious grapes made into liquid heaven, Stellenbosch is rich in sommelier heritage. Situated on the outskirts of Cape Town, this feel-good town has historical Cape-Dutch architecture on every corner, hiking trails through the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve and wine tasting experiences at world-class wineries. here, one can embark on a Historical Bike Tour and Wine Tasting adventure, visit the Stellenbosch Village Museum, shop at Root 44 Market, pick strawberries at Polkadraai or set off on a game drive on Villiera Wine Farm.
Deep Dive in Mossel Bay
South Africa is known for its exquisite Garden Route, but the town of Mossel Bay – at the heart of it all – is often overlooked. If you want a coastal reprieve among all the pollen and colours, celebrate Heritage Month in Mossel Bay. From here, you can reach beautiful beaches, historic attractions like the Bartolomeu Dias Museum and outdoor adventures like cage-diving or snorkelling in no time. You can also hop aboard a scenic train ride, encounter wildlife by helicopter, visit the Seabird and Penguin Rehabilitation Centre, partake in a Seal Island Tour or visit the Cape Saint Blaize Distillery.
Lie Low in Mpumalanga
Mbombela, formerly known as Nelspruit, is an idealistic town known for its lush valleys, high mountaintops and historical caves. Heritage is strong in the town’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures. One can keep busy by visiting the Sudwala Caves and Dinosaur Park or the Lowveld National Botanical Garden. The scenic perfection of God’s Window and Blyde River Canyon is also a must-see, whilst the famous Kruger National Park is just a stone’s throw away.
Sieging the North West
Mahikeng is a South African town that is internationally known for the most famous military engagement of the Second Boer War. Founded by a tribal leader during the 1800s, heritage doesn’t get stronger than this. If you want to explore the ‘Place of Stones,’ book a stay at a hotel from where you can explore with family and friends.
Swim Up a Storm in KwaZulu-Natal
Umfolozi is a small, but significant town nestled in the Richards Bay area of KwaZulu-Natal. With roots to South African tribes, the Black and White Umfolozi Rivers are rich in cultural and natural heritage scenes. At the heart of these rich ecosystems, the heritage of the town will seep through your veins.
Find Heritage at Fire & Ice Gauteng
Johannesburg is the epicentre of South Africa and is a must-visit for anything to do with heritage. Cultural, historical, social and political significances in history have all occurred in Joburg and its surrounds. Hence, it’s only natural that any history afficionado would want to linger here a little longer. Home to Constitution Hill, the Apartheid Museum and the South African National Museum of Military History, there is a lot to explore this Heritage Month and every other month.
South Africa is a heritage-rich country with many unique places bursting with history and character. Why not make a bucket list from these towns and enjoy exploring the South African heritage? In fact, why stick to Heritage Month when you have the whole year to explore this beautiful country? The bonus: You’ll find accommodation in any of these towns through Protea Hotels by Marriott.
