10 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in South Africa
South Africa is a country of surprises and all these surprises are of adventure, culture and breathtaking landscapes. Most travelers come because of the world famous safaris and natural wonders, but that does not mean that there is not a plethora of cool and/or off beat thing to do. This country is not lacking in thrilling experiences to be had from ghost hunting in historic hotels to walking with penguins. South Africa has something special for both adrenaline junkie and person who likes to do quirky things.
Before you start enjoying these wonderful experiences, you need to obtain a South Africa Visa in advance. Since you have sorted out your travel plans, you can definitely indulge in the hidden gems and offbeat attractions of South Africa that make the country one of those great places you just have to visit.
Here are the 10 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in South Africa
1. Walk with Penguins at Boulders Beach
African penguins can be spotted up close at Boulders Beach in Cape Town. There are board walks, which you can even take a dip in the calm waters at the side of them or stroll along. It is a beautiful place for wildlife lovers with scenic surroundings of giant granite boulders and soft white sand. As a heartwarming experience, it is very lovely to watch the penguins waddle about and interact.
2. Explore the Underground Wonderland of Cango Caves
On a beautiful sightseeing drive of Burgh Oliwander, rich in historical and landscape interest, the Cango Caves are a breathtaking network of limestone caverns which are partially lit. Guided tours that involve crawling through narrow tunnels, climbing rock formations and undertaking other adventurous activities can be undertaken by adventurous travelers. There are massive stalactites, eerie rock chambers and a history that stretches back many times that. Regardless of your leaning, should you be a geology tinker or just into the hidden hiding places the world can provide you are in amazement.
3. Sandboard Down the Atlantis Dunes
The Atlantis Dunes near the Cape Town are the place to go for a rush of thumping adrenaline: sandboarding. These rolling white dunes offer up the perfect back drop for beginner and experts alike to empty themselves down steep sandy slopes. But the photos of the bright dunes against a deep blue sky are stunning. No matter whether you like to stand or sit on the board, the fun that comes from sliding down the dunes is one that you will not forget.
4. Visit the World’s Largest Themed Bar in Soweto
The SAB World of Beer is the world’s largest beer themed bar that brings Soweto’s vibrant culture and nightlife to life. This is an interactive journey through South Africa’s brewing history and is a unique attraction. It is an experience of learning how to make the classic beer of the ancient people, trying the original African brews. A spectacular city view is provided on the rooftop beer garden that provides a perfect place to unwind with a cold beverage.
5. Dive with Crocodiles in Cage Diving
Cage diving with crocodiles in Oudtshoorn is for a truly heart pounding experience. This adventure is unlike shark cage diving, where you can come face to face with some of the world’s most fearsome reptiles from a secure enclosure. To be watched dangerously close by a magnificent crocodile, neither a foot underwater nor inches from you, as it glides, its powerful jaws just inches from you: that is thrilling, not terrifying. It is a rare chance to get a glimpse of these prehistoric creatures in a completely new way.
6. Drive the Panorama Route for Mind-Blowing Views
South Africa’s most scenic road trip is the Panorama Route with dramatic landscapes and breathtaking viewpoints. God’s Window, Blyde River Canyon and Lisbon Falls are just a few of the jaw dropping views that highlight the 6 highlights in this area. There is a new perspective of South Africa’s natural beauty at every stop along the way. This drive is a photographer’s dream or a nature lover’s trip that will not be forgotten.
7. Visit the Owl House
The Owl House is one of South Africa’s most unusual attractions and is located in the quiet town of Nieu-Bethesda. This house was created by artist Helen Martins and is full of hundreds of sculptures made from glass, cement and wire. They are eerie, but fascinating figures of owls, camels and human like creatures that give the place a surreal atmosphere. The eccentric art haven is a fun place to visit if you are a creative spirit looking for the unconventional.
8. Go Ghost Hunting in the Spooky Matjiesfontein Hotel
The Lord Milner Hotel in Matjiesfontein is a historic Victorian era hotel which is famous for its ghostly legends, so step into the past. Guests and staff have also spoken of inexplicable voices and witnessed a ghostly figure in white. If you are a supernatural believer or fun paranormal experience, then spending a night at this haunted hotel is a great experience you will never forget.
9. Experience a Traditional Braai with Locals
South Africa calls this her version of a barbecue, but that doesn’t really cover the scope of their festivities. Rather than eating at a restaurant, go for a braai with locals in townships such as Langa and Khayelitsha. Whoever decided to have a restaurant dedicated to serving only the flame grilled meats, homemade side dishes and to have a warm, welcoming atmosphere has done well! It is the ideal way to meet the people, flavors and traditions that make South African cuisine so unique.
10. Take a Scenic Train Ride on the Rovos Rail
The Rovos Rail, which is often referred to as “the most luxurious train in the world”, is a fantastic way to travel for a luxurious and scenic journey. Elegant wood paneled cabins, gourmet dining and panoramic views of South Africa’s landscapes are all that this vintage style train has to offer. On each subsequent experiences you travel through vineyards and deserts and coastal areas, you feel as though you’ve stepped back in time. This is the ultimate way to travel slow and stylish in ultimate elegance.
Conclusion
South Africa will tickle your sense of adventure, history and random unique experiences that are more than just the normal tourist experience. The experiences involved take the diving with crocodiles, exploring eerie caves, or riding a scenic train ride different in your journey. This country thus has something for every kind of traveler, and therefore is a nice place for those who fancy adventure and looking for things in culture.
If you are planning your trip, then make sure to apply for South Africa Visa from India in advance to make your trip hassle free. After sorting out your visa you can concentrate on the wonderful array of strange adventures available to you in South Africa. What would you attempt first of these strange activities? Here is waiting for the comments on how we can let you know and start planning your unforgettable South African adventure.
