11 of the Best Small Towns in South Africa: Unique Little Places that’ll Steal Your Heart.

Without a question, South Africa is a great vacation spot. And not just for people seeking a safari vacation. Numerous oddball small villages with fascinating architecture, tales, and inhabitants may be found dotted over the nation’s expansive and breathtaking landscapes.

Eleven of our favorites are shown below. Go ahead, explore these intriguing tiny towns in South Africa and venture off the usual path! You’re aware that you’d like to.

1. Eastern Cape Coffee Bay

As the name suggests, the Transkei is the Wild Coast. Stretching up to KwaZulu-Natal, it is an exceptionally beautiful and pristine stretch of coastline on the Indian Ocean in the Eastern Cape. Coffee Bay, a popular destination for local and international hikers, travelers, and tourists, is located in the center of it.

The large sandy beaches of the bays are shielded by sweeping green hills with traditional houses, cows, pigs, and chickens, as well as jagged cliffs with waterfalls. In addition to offering a variety of activities beyond simply lounging on the beach and taking in the tranquility, time passes slowly here.

Many lodges, such as Sugarloaf Backpackers and Coffee Shack, offer not just lodging but also a gathering spot (they have fun bars and entertainment areas where you’re sure to meet a variety of interesting people!). and information about hiking, surfing, and other local activities.

Don’t miss the amazing beach hike to Hole In The Wall, which passes the Hlungwane Falls on the way to this amazing natural wonder. And that’s only one of the many walks available nearby.

Coffee Bay is a beautiful place to go fishing, surfing, diving, hiking, or just relaxing on the beach and reading a book.

2. KwaZulu-Natal’s St Lucia

St Lucia is a tropical oasis on the warm Indian Ocean in northern KwaZulu Natal. Beautiful wetlands and game reserves encircle it. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which spans over 320 000 hectares of coastal wetland and includes three lake systems, swamp forests, and ancient dunes, is where St Lucia is located. It is home to a wide variety of birds, hippos, and crocs.

See the amazing Loggerheads and Leatherbacks come ashore to lay their eggs by taking a Turtle Tour Safari (turtle season runs from November to March). If you don’t like to walk, Bhangazi Horse Safaris offers horseback safaris where you may enjoy the beach’s splendor.

Take a sunset boat on the St. Lucia Estuary to cap off your day in this tropical paradise. Nothing compares to enjoying a gin and tonic as the sun sets over Africa, crocodiles glinting their eyes, and hippos grunting.

One of South Africa’s top diving sites, Sodwana, is located at iSinmangaliso, a bit further north. Go up there and spend some time with the folks at Coral Divers if you’re seeking for scuba diving adventure (and PADI certification).

3. Free State, Clarens

This tiny gem of a hamlet offers breathtaking views of the Maluti Mountains and is located in the eastern Free State, near the Lesotho border. The stunning sandstone cliffs and valleys of the Rooiberge, which encircle the town, offer ideal locations for hiking, horseback riding, and trout fishing.

What do we like best about Clarens? The brewery Clarens. It is one of the oldest “craft” breweries in South Africa, having been producing beer and ciders since 2006. They provide a delicious cuisine to keep your stomach full, as well as brewery tours and tastings! You won’t want to miss this, as they have beers to fit every palate, including IPA, Stout, and Blonde, to mention just three of their seven varieties, as well as seasonal specials like a hazelnut brown ale. Before we discuss the cherry cider, that is.

However, there are other things to do in Clarens besides drinking beer. Not at all! Enjoy trout fishing at the Clarens Golf Estate, horseback riding through the stunning landscape from Schaaplaats Farm, white water rafting on the Ash River with Outrageous Adventures, or simply strolling around the charming tiny town and stopping by the museum, galleries, and coffee shops.

4. Northern Cape, Kakamas

The small oasis town of Kakamas is located on the banks of the Orange River, midway between Pofadder and Upington. Grown along the river (and on islands in the river), this small town is well-known for its exports of table grapes and raisins.

Finding the green grapevines is a shocking find in the Northern Cape’s huge dry landscape. Don’t leave town without stopping at the pristine pink Pienk Padstal or stopping by Die Mas van Kakamas for a refreshing drink (you’ll need it).

The Klipspringer Hiking Trail is a 3-day, 40-kilometer journey through breathtaking landscape that begins at Augrabies Falls for those who are fit and seeking a challenge. Due to excessive heat, this trail will be closed from October 15 to March 31.

5. Eastern Cape’s Hogsback

If there are goblins, elves, or fairies, you’ll find them in Hogsback. This small hamlet, which has a population of just over 1,000, is located in the Eastern Cape above the Amathola Mountains.

Legend has it that J.R.R. Tolkien drew inspiration for the settings in The Lord of the Rings from this area, which is easy to believe given its native forests and abundance of rivers and waterfalls. Take a mountain bike ride or try abseiling with Hogsback Adventures to explore the area. You can also wander the labyrinth at The Edge or take in the peaceful beauty of the many clearly defined trails.

Stop by Butterfly’s Bistro and have a delectable supper in the garden beneath the trees. Cuddle up by the fire in the tavern at the 1880-era Hogsback Inn when winter arrives and the entire neighborhood is transformed into a winter wonderland.

6. The Eastern Cape’s Nieu Bethesda

This is what people mean when they refer to “the middle of nowhere.” In the Great Karoo, close to Graaff-Reinet, is Nieu Bethesda. This small settlement beneath the Kompasberg is pleasantly lush because of the year-round spring, so it’s worth deviating from the usual path to see.

The most famous aspect of Nieu Bethesda is the Owl House and Camel Yard, which were built by the late inhabitant Helen Martins. It’s a mystical realm with animals made of concrete and walls covered with broken glass. Allocate a good number of hours to investigate it.

One of South Africa’s greatest bookstores, Dustcovers, is located just up the road and is owned by the charming Victoria and Nico. As you peruse their shelves and fill up on holiday reading, you’ll meet Harper, the most attractive dog on the planet, and Huxley, his sidekick. After that, explore the dusty streets, take in the quiet, and stop by the many galleries and little stores. Nieu Bethesda is ‘home’ to several exceptionally gifted people.

Considering the town’s modest size, there are surprisingly many excellent eateries, and it even has its own brewery! Visit The Brewery and Two Goats Deli to sample the beers that Andre Cilliers has created. You can savor a platter of kudu salami and goat’s cheese, which is also produced nearby, together with fresh bread and pickles in the garden while he uses the spring water.

7. Mpumalanga’s Pilgrim’s Rest

Travel back in time to the late 19th-century Gold Rush. Many of the old structures at Pilgrim’s Rest, which is located on the breathtaking Panorama Route, remain intact. The entire town is designated as a National Monument!

Explore the three churches, take in the police station’s stunning, historic, and elaborate architecture, and travel back in time at the general store and house museums. Remember to stop by the cemetery, where every headstone save for one—that of a robber—faces the same way.

Experience what the miners had in 1890 by trying your hand at gold panning at Pilgrim’s Creek!

Enjoy a drink in the bar of The Royal Hotel, which was formerly the chapel at St. Cyprian’s School in Cape Town, to ease your sadness from not discovering a massive gold nugget! It was disassembled in Cape Town, transported to Maputo (formerly Delagoa Bay), and then transported to Pilgrim’s Rest by oxwagon overland.

8. Mpumalanga’s Dullstroom-Emnotweni

On the route to the Kruger National Park, Dullstroom-Emnotweni in Mpumalanga is only two hours’ drive from Johannesburg. One of the highest cities in South Africa, it is perched atop the Steenkampberg and has a cold, misty, and romantic atmosphere that is practically sub-alpine.

The town itself is charming, lovely, and full of unique stores and structures. It is also known as one of South Africa’s trout fishing hotspots.

To catch some tasty trout for supper, spend a day fly fishing and pretend you’re in A River Runs Through It. It’s very soothing, especially with the landscape all around! Not sure how? Don’t worry, there are plenty of locations in the city, such as Mavungana Flyfishing, that will make you feel like Brad Pitt in no time.

Visit the Anvil Brewery for some artisan beer (and boozy desserts!) or Wild About Whisky for a warming whisky after a day of fishing. You’ll have a plenty of options because they have the biggest whisky menu in the Southern Hemisphere!

Don’t pass up a visit to the Dullstroom Bird Of Prey & Rehabilitation Centre, whose primary goals are to raise awareness, educate the public, and rehabilitate raptors—which are becoming more and more endangered. Admire the beauty of these birds, discover their amazing behaviors, and watch them soar for exercise every day!

9. Gauteng’s Cullinan

Gauteng’s diamond mining hub is Cullinan. It was established in 1902, and Oak Avenue, its major thoroughfare, is studded with exquisitely restored Victorian structures, galleries, charming stores, and eateries. Come in the spring to witness the jacarandas’ breathtaking purple display!

A tour of the mine, and particularly the open-cast mining, is a must-do when visiting Cullinan; the hole is three times larger than the notorious Kimberley Hole!

Zip-lining, archery, quad-biking, and paintballing are just a few of the many thrilling activities available at Adventure Zone Cullinan. The only reserve in Gauteng where the Big Five wander freely is the neighboring Dinokeng Game Reserve, which also provides a self-drive route for visitors to see these amazing animals and more.

10. Western Cape’s Riebeek Kasteel

This eccentric little town, with all the delicious treats that come with it, is located in a lush valley that produces wine and olives, and is only a short hour’s drive from Cape Town! Visitors can enjoy delicious meals, charming small stores and galleries, and a number of wine vineyards on the outskirts of Riebeek Kasteel.

Wander around the small village, stopping at The Wine Kolletive, which exclusively carries wines from the area, or the Garagista Brewery, which produces a beer named “Tears of the Hipster,” among other things. Then stop into Mama Cucina or Bar Bar Black Sheep for a bite to eat. Go back in time and sip on a glass of local chardonnay in the bar or on the stoep of The Royal Hotel across the street.

You’re spoiled for choice if you’re a little out of town. The Olive Boutique, Het Vlock Kasteel, and Kloovenberg, to mention just three, have wine and olives that make excellent presents!

11. The Western Cape’s Kalk Bay

Kalk Bay is a quaint tiny beach ‘town’ that is 30 minutes from central Cape Town by vehicle (or train). The cobbled streets here make it difficult to believe you’re still in a city. There are plenty of activities, dining options, and breathtaking views to choose from.

Seals playing in the water and colorful fishing boats can be seen in Kalk Bay’s operational harbor. See the freshest fish and chips on the planet at Kalky’s or Live Bait, which are located directly on the water, after taking a stroll along the pier. For a more upscale experience, head to the Harbour House for amazing seafood and one of the best views of the Indian Ocean.

Shopping enthusiasts will love Main Road in Kalk Bay, which is lined with oddball stores, galleries, and The Ice Cafe, which serves homemade ice cream. Without ice cream, what would a trip to the beach be?

Bob’s Bagel Cafe, a peaceful little place away from the bustle, is tucked along a side street behind the Main Road in the park. It serves freshly cooked bagels and the best coffee around.