Unique things to do in South Africa
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Unique things to do in South Africa

Book unforgettable activities hosted by locals on Airbnb.

Top-rated activities

⭐ Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike
Hike up Lions Head, Cape Town's most Instragram'able hike for sunrise or sunset. We enjoy some amazing photo opportunities before our descent. During a sunset hike, we will hike to the summit and then drop down to a lower, more quiet section (less crowds) to watch the sunset and start the descend before it gets completely dark. During a sunrise hike, we may hike the first part in the dark using our flashlights (provided) and watch the sunrise from the summit. This hike has been an age old tradition for locals especially during the full moon and on clear/windless nights/mornings where the lights of the city below dazzle and the moon and stars show off its beauty in the night sky. Other things to note Wear clothing you are comfortable hiking in. Ensure you wear descent pair of hiking/walking shoes. A fair level of fitness is required. You need to be comfortable with heights. Start times vary based on Sunset and Sunrise and it is critical that we start on time in order to witness Sunrise/Sunset
Hike Paternoster & the Cape West Coast
We will head up or down the coast from the town of Paternoster along the beach or through the coastal Fynbos looking for signs and actual encounters with fauna and flora. We may see sea birds, seals, bones of sea mammals, whales, and certainly beautiful and spectacular scenery. The dry coastal bush is rich in life and living animals and we have a 99% chance of stepping over the Cape Tortoise. The guided hike will normally be about a two hour round experience but for those who are fitter and willing we will venture further. The area is rich in history and culture and we will definitely stop to engage with the local fishermen and their stories. Guests have the option of longer beach hikes from Paternoster to St. Helena Bay or Paternoster to Saldanha Bay. Learn about shipwrecks and tragedies, and visit some isolated areas of this rugged coastline. Other things to note toilet stops accommodated and some water on route
Table Mountain hike, off the beaten track - English & German
Hike a fun and adventurous (but safe) route up Table Mountain, along lesser-used paths to avoid the crowds. Experience this natural wonder and enjoy stunning views of the city centre, Robben Island, Lions Head, Table Bay, the 12 Apostles (the back of Table Mountain) and the Atlantic coastline, while learning about the mountain's history, vegetation and surrounding landmarks from a local. Small groups always ensure a 5-star experience. Good health, moderate fitness and comfort on loose terrain is required. It may be necessary to use hands and feet to scramble over some rocks. Please bring appropriate footwear. The descent is via cable car.
Photoshoot in iconic Bo-Kaap
We are excited to meet you at The Bo Kaap Deli, 114 church street, where neighbours of Bo Kaap and all around Cape Town meets for delicious food and drinks! We will take you through the most picturesque streets of the neighbourhood taking pictures of you! This experience is for everyone that's is interested in doing something different exploring and creating quality photos while having fun with a local photographer, like a friend! Great for autumn/winter lighting too! We are a team of four photographers and one of us will meet you, will capture portraits, full Body and action shots pictures of you and will send you the best ones (between 40and60) professionally edited in high resolution. You will receive them within 3days via a link from which you will be able to download them and ready for you to share ! We will also do one photo of you with a Polaroid camera that you will be able to take right away as a souvenir! You will meet other participants during the experience as it is up to 4participants (Unless you also book the Private photoshoot option)
Peninsula Roadtrip
Cape Town has one of the most scenic drives in the world! Enjoy the breath-taking views as we give you a local’s perspective of the must-see locations that our beautiful Cape Coastline has to offer! Experience a unique version of a Peninsula Tour as we take our guests to some of Cape Towns' bucket-list locations as well as a few of the best hidden gems that this route has to offer! Join our Peninsula road-trip and let the ‘locals’ show you how to travel the Cape the right way. Our goal is to create a 'road trip with new friends atmosphere'. So book now to join the fun :) Highlights: St. James beach and the colourful houses (photo opportunity), Kalk Bay (local fish and chips), Boulders Beach penguin colony (viewing deck and beach walk), Cape Point hike (lighthouse and cliff lookout), Cape of Good Hope, picnic & local craft beer tasting at Buffels Beach, Chapmans Peak Drive & viewpoint (secret sundowners - local gin and tonic) and much more. Includes: Transport and driver, local host (accredited guide), entrance fees at all locations, fish n chips, packed lunch, water, craft beer tasting & craft gin sundowners drink. Please note: This tour will only commence if 3 or more guests have booked.

Loved by locals

Discover Camps Bay with Private Chef Bontle
Enjoy your very own private chef experience at your place! Take advantage of our group discounts! ★ 10% OFF — groups from 4 to 5 guests ★ 15% OFF — groups of +6 guests Learn the secrets hidden within each dish, and enjoy a delicious multi-course meal. Get ready to discover the taste of Camps Bay without leaving your own dining room! I will arrive 90 minutes before your preferred dining time in order to begin working my magic. I won't arrive empty-handed! No-no, I will show up at your doorstep equipped with every ingredient needed in order to prepare your meal. Feel free to put your apron on and cook some of the dishes with me! I am eager to share with you the secrets behind my recipes and Camps Bay local hidden treasures. Not in the mood? Well then lay down, relax, enjoy a few appetizers and allow me and my team to take care of you. Eat, share, drink, laugh, and explore Camps Bay dining scene from your own table. Oh and don’t worry about tidying up, everything will be left spotless for you to continue to enjoy! To have a closer look at my menus check out the What's Included section below. Please note that to book an experience there is a minimum of 2 guests required.
Create Pendants Filled with Emotion & Memories with Morgane
*Experience also available as Gift Voucher Welcome into my private creative studio, surrounded by the tools & artisan desk where I have created unique range jewellery since 2014. Here is your very special occasion to dive into a professional jewellery-maker's world. Today you're the Artist! Let's start customizing your jewellery! Choose 2 pendants from the 6 presented (choice of solid silver or gold metal), then using a variety of tools and techniques, add personalized messages and textures. It could be a name, a special date, your magic word, a note to your loved one or even a marriage proposal. I'll guide you in the technique of hand-engraving and will help you with every step of the process. My experience and creative brain will be at your entire disposal for the time of the workshop! Time to clean your piece to reveal its brilliance, giving it a shiny satin finish or even a raw look. The last step will be to turn these pendants into a necklace with a wide choice of colored cords or a chain, and send you home with your very own creation! Experience Morgane & The Queen: Whether you're passionate about jewellery, art, or simply seeking a unique experience, I would be delighted to welcome you into my world. Join me to discover the art of jewellery making through original creations, personalized workshops, and much more. I look forward to sharing my passion with you!
Taste Johannesburg through Private Chef Callum
Enjoy your very own private chef experience at your place! Take advantage of our group discounts! 20% OFF — groups from 4 to 5 guests 26% OFF — groups of +6 guests Learn the secrets hidden within each dish, and enjoy a delicious multi-course meal. Get ready to discover the taste of Johannesburg without leaving your own dining room! I will arrive 90 minutes before your preferred dining time in order to begin working my magic. I won't arrive empty-handed! No-no, I will show up at your doorstep equipped with every ingredient needed in order to prepare your meal. Feel free to put your apron on and cook some of the dishes with me! I am eager to share with you the secrets behind my recipes and Johannesburg local hidden treasures. Not in the mood? Well then lay down, relax, enjoy a few appetizers and allow me and my team to take care of you. Eat, share, drink, laugh, and explore Johannesburg dining scene from your own table. Oh and don’t worry about tidying up, everything will be left spotless for you to continue to enjoy! My inspiration of this menu came from the diversity I have experienced growing up as a South African, where there is a huge variety of different foods within multiple cultures. To have a closer look at my menus, send me a direct message and I will send them your way! Please note that to book an experience there is a minimum of 2 guests required.
Photoshoot in an Exotic Forest
We'll meet at the Nature Reserve in Modderfontein. We'll travel down a long narrow road where we will stop to take a few pictures. We'll then follow the road which leads us to a rustic stone bridge that has a little river flowing under which is surrounded by lots of exotic flowers. We'll hop out and take a few more pictures here while we enjoy the tranquil sound of the river. We'll then drive into the reserve and down a stoney road which opens up into this beautiful tranquil lake that overlooks the reserve. This will be our last stop where we will completely embrace what Mother Nature has given us. Other things to note It is very normal to feel nervous for a photoshoot. The important thing to remember is to be yourself. Make sure you wear something comfortable and something you feel comfortable wearing. R40 per person to enter the reserve
Intuitive Creating Mandala's & SoulPainting
Everyone is creative in some way and this process encourages the expression of that. Ideal for anyone – experienced to beginner – to play, explore and reconnect to their inner wonder child. Give yourself time off to silence your mind and breathe - no expected outcome, no judgment, no need to get it right - just a chance to relax into playing with art making materials, and listening to the messages from your soul. We start with a mindful meditation and connection to self, learning how to follow your body's way of saying yes and no. Then using that information you select the place to create, the instruments and materials to use. There will be guidelines on how to move away from that loud inner critic and keep creating so that you can create something that may truly surprise you. This is not Art Therapy … This is Creativity Ignition!

All activities near South Africa

Kayak with dolphins in the heart of Cape Town
Cape Town's natural beauty is world-renowned, however, few have experienced its sights and sounds from the fresh blue water of the Atlantic Ocean. Leaving our base at the calm waters of the V&A Waterfront, you will paddle into the fresh movement of the ocean where you could encounter our active marine life and possibly catch a glimpse of some local dolphins, whales, seals, penguins, and sunfish! You will also witness unique views of Lion's Head, Signal Hill, and our local shipwreck. The tour will then be ended off with a breathtakingly photogenic view of Cape Town's treasure, Table Mountain. No previous experience needed. Set your senses free on our 2 hour Sea Kayak Tour, your outlook of Cape Town will be positively changed forever! Other things to note I advise you to wear something to paddle in that's comfortable when wet, as well as a change of dry clothes, a towel, sunscreen, water and a hat. Bring a windbreaker if you have one available. Please kindly take note, kayak capacity 100kg max weight per person.
⭐ Lion's Head Sunrise/Sunset Hike
Hike up Lions Head, Cape Town's most Instragram'able hike for sunrise or sunset. We enjoy some amazing photo opportunities before our descent. During a sunset hike, we will hike to the summit and then drop down to a lower, more quiet section (less crowds) to watch the sunset and start the descend before it gets completely dark. During a sunrise hike, we may hike the first part in the dark using our flashlights (provided) and watch the sunrise from the summit. This hike has been an age old tradition for locals especially during the full moon and on clear/windless nights/mornings where the lights of the city below dazzle and the moon and stars show off its beauty in the night sky. Other things to note Wear clothing you are comfortable hiking in. Ensure you wear descent pair of hiking/walking shoes. A fair level of fitness is required. You need to be comfortable with heights. Start times vary based on Sunset and Sunrise and it is critical that we start on time in order to witness Sunrise/Sunset
Scenic morning horseride in the mountain
Experience our scenic horse ride in the mountains towering above Swellendam. We meet at 08h30 at the stables for pre-ride hat fitting & saddle adjustments. The ride takes us over the headwaters of the Koornlands River, into and through big pine plantations and meander back through the marloth nature reserve. Spectacular views of the mountain and sounds of the soft forest floors. For experienced riders we do a good bit of lovely trots and canters and as we can go further we manage to reach some higher ground to enjoy the view over the Village and surrounding fields. It is ideal for beginner riders as well, to experience the smooth walking rhythm of the four legs that mesmerize and connect you to the heart of the horse. The ride is 1&1/2 hour long The weight limit is 80kg for riders. Let us know more about your riding experience height and weight for us to suit yourself to your riding horse.
Hike Paternoster & the Cape West Coast
We will head up or down the coast from the town of Paternoster along the beach or through the coastal Fynbos looking for signs and actual encounters with fauna and flora. We may see sea birds, seals, bones of sea mammals, whales, and certainly beautiful and spectacular scenery. The dry coastal bush is rich in life and living animals and we have a 99% chance of stepping over the Cape Tortoise. The guided hike will normally be about a two hour round experience but for those who are fitter and willing we will venture further. The area is rich in history and culture and we will definitely stop to engage with the local fishermen and their stories. Guests have the option of longer beach hikes from Paternoster to St. Helena Bay or Paternoster to Saldanha Bay. Learn about shipwrecks and tragedies, and visit some isolated areas of this rugged coastline. Other things to note toilet stops accommodated and some water on route
Table Mountain hike, off the beaten track - English & German
Hike a fun and adventurous (but safe) route up Table Mountain, along lesser-used paths to avoid the crowds. Experience this natural wonder and enjoy stunning views of the city centre, Robben Island, Lions Head, Table Bay, the 12 Apostles (the back of Table Mountain) and the Atlantic coastline, while learning about the mountain's history, vegetation and surrounding landmarks from a local. Small groups always ensure a 5-star experience. Good health, moderate fitness and comfort on loose terrain is required. It may be necessary to use hands and feet to scramble over some rocks. Please bring appropriate footwear. The descent is via cable car.
Photoshoot in iconic Bo-Kaap
We are excited to meet you at The Bo Kaap Deli, 114 church street, where neighbours of Bo Kaap and all around Cape Town meets for delicious food and drinks! We will take you through the most picturesque streets of the neighbourhood taking pictures of you! This experience is for everyone that's is interested in doing something different exploring and creating quality photos while having fun with a local photographer, like a friend! Great for autumn/winter lighting too! We are a team of four photographers and one of us will meet you, will capture portraits, full Body and action shots pictures of you and will send you the best ones (between 40and60) professionally edited in high resolution. You will receive them within 3days via a link from which you will be able to download them and ready for you to share ! We will also do one photo of you with a Polaroid camera that you will be able to take right away as a souvenir! You will meet other participants during the experience as it is up to 4participants (Unless you also book the Private photoshoot option)
Peninsula Roadtrip
Cape Town has one of the most scenic drives in the world! Enjoy the breath-taking views as we give you a local’s perspective of the must-see locations that our beautiful Cape Coastline has to offer! Experience a unique version of a Peninsula Tour as we take our guests to some of Cape Towns' bucket-list locations as well as a few of the best hidden gems that this route has to offer! Join our Peninsula road-trip and let the ‘locals’ show you how to travel the Cape the right way. Our goal is to create a 'road trip with new friends atmosphere'. So book now to join the fun :) Highlights: St. James beach and the colourful houses (photo opportunity), Kalk Bay (local fish and chips), Boulders Beach penguin colony (viewing deck and beach walk), Cape Point hike (lighthouse and cliff lookout), Cape of Good Hope, picnic & local craft beer tasting at Buffels Beach, Chapmans Peak Drive & viewpoint (secret sundowners - local gin and tonic) and much more. Includes: Transport and driver, local host (accredited guide), entrance fees at all locations, fish n chips, packed lunch, water, craft beer tasting & craft gin sundowners drink. Please note: This tour will only commence if 3 or more guests have booked.
Horse Riding Wildlife Safari near Stellenbosch
** Our MAXIMUM weight limit is strictly 85 KILOGRAMS and our minimum age is 8 years old - NO EXCEPTIONS. WEIGHING IS REQUIRED ON ARRIVAL. Please make sure before you book as you will not be able to ride on the day if you exceed these limits.** Join us for an unforgettable horse riding safari among South African wildlife. We are great for groups, teambuilding events, and we are a family friendly adventure. We welcome guests from all walks of life and look forward to sharing our unique trail ride with you. We start out by getting you comfortably onto a horse that is most suitable for you, based on weight and previous experience. If you've never ridden before, we show you the basics you'll need for the ride. We set out on a short walk through the farm to the wildlife sanctuary, where we'll spend the next hour and a bit riding through the reserve to view giraffe, wildebeest, zebra, eland, bontebok, springbuck, & other animals, as well as a variety of birdlife, before the return ride back to the farm. Our horses are a South African breed called a boerperd, known for being gentle, calm and brave. The majority of our horses are ridden bitless. In respect to the wildlife in their environment, we are only allowed to go at a walking pace inside the game reserve.
Cape of Good Hope Tour & Cape Point, Seal, Penguins RoadTrip
We will start our day with a collection at our pick up point or at your hotel in Cape Town, at approximately 08H50am. We will travel along the Atlantic Seaboard, with the mountains on one side and the ocean on the other while passing through Bantry Bay, Clifton and Camps Bay. We will have a photo stop at Maiden’s Cove. From there we proceed past at 12 Apostles mountain range and Llandudno and have our next stop in Hout Bay. Here guests can take a boat to Seal island to view the Seals. Upon our return from Seal Island we will proceed along Chapmans Peak drive. We proceed through Noordhoek with the option of stopping for the finest roasted coffee at The Village Roast on this route. From there , we will proceed to Boulder’s Beach to see the African Penguin colony in their natural habitat. We will then proceed to Cape of Good Hope Nature reserve, we explore the Dias cross and some fauna and see the meeting point of the 2 currents namely the cold Benguela Current and the warm Agulhas Current. Our tour guide will guide you along the safe hiking trails, should you be a keen hiker. Lunch can be enjoyed at best restaurant in Simon Town or Cape Point . Our return route is passing through Muizenberg, we will have a photo stop at the Muizenberg Beach Huts. You will be dropped off at your hotel around the City
African Food and Storytelling Tour
Welcome to an extraordinary journey, an invitation to explore the heart of Cape Town through the lens of African cuisine. Our African Food & Storytelling Experience takes you off the beaten path to uncover our favorite hidden African gems from different parts of Africa. Our experience celebrates community kitchens and hole-in-the-wall restaurants, each with its own story to tell. We delve into the vibrant tapestry of African cuisine, connecting with the rich traditions that span the African diaspora in Cape Town. Our journey comprises approximately 7 stops, each offering a taste of different authentic African cuisines and dishes as well as homemade beverages. But this experience goes beyond just savoring food; it celebrates resilience and entrepreneurship. We spotlight remarkable African entrepreneurs who have created unique community spaces in the face of economic and social challenges, especially in a city undergoing rapid gentrification.
Catamaran Cruise in V&A Waterfront
Departing from the iconic V&A Waterfront, heading along the Atlantic coastline with picturesque views of Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Relaxing on the trampolines or on the padded cushions under covering whilst keeping an eye on the Atlantic waters for a chance to spot some of the incredible marine life that Cape Town has to offer such as Dolphins, Whales, Seals, Penguins and Sun Fish.
Revel in the Cape Peninsula and African Penguins
The Experience can be booked as a private tour or you can join a group! We get an early start to avoid the big tour buses as we head to one of only 2 places on the continent where you can experience the African Penguin. These friendly little guys have been kind enough to share their spectacular beach with us. We'll make our way through a secret passage among the boulders and vegetation to get close to these gentle and curious birds without being intrusive. Our next stop is the historic Cape Point National Park in search of Ostriches, Eland and the illusive Cape Mountain Zebra, you'll also have the chance to experience two must have moments: The visit to the Cape of Good Hope Corner and the Lighthouses of Cape Point. We then head to one of the world's most beautiful coastal roads; Chapmans Peak Drive where we'll prepare a craft gin tasting of our very own award winning Pesky Hobbit Gin born during the global hardships of 2020. Our final stop is at a destination synonymous with Capetonian foodie culture. The local fisherman of Hout Bay have long been regarded as the best in the business when it comes to delivering the tastiest Fish and Chips in SA. This is a real winner and a must do for lunch during your time here. Our last stretch after a memorable day is along the coastal road via Llandudno Beach and Camps Bay back to your accommodation or drop-off point.
Learn to Surf Experience!
So you want to surf? First time or still in the early days of your surfing journey? We'll teach you everything you need to know and get you riding waves in no time! Meet us at our amazing location in Jeffrey's Bay. We'll get you set up with surfboards and wetsuits and head down to one of the most famous surf beaches in the world. Surfing is easy with the right host and equipment. You'll be having a blast in no time!
Stargazing in the Little Karoo
Stargazing in the Little Karoo. Itenarary - I will meet you at reception at plus minus 20h00 (earlier during winter and later during summer) we will move to where the telescope is set up which is normally within walking distance to begin the hour long presentation. We stand or sit around the telescope. Location - We will be outdoors covered by a blanket of stars and planets looking up at the wonder of our galaxy. What to expect- I will share facts and stories while looking through the telescope to see more detail of the galaxy. I use a laser pointer to identify constellations, stars, planets etc.I will briefly discuss the history of astronomy,Greek mythology,African folk lore and then take guests on a stargazing trip pointing out the big five of the sky. This experience is unique because it is outdoors,we will be covered by a blanket of stars and Klein Karoo stargazing is unique due to unpolluted skies. What will I learn? - I endeavore to share knowledge of the universe with you,to explain how distance in space is calculated,to understand the sheer magnitude of the universe and trigger an interest to discover more. Guests are encouraged to ask questions and take part by looking through the telescope and sharing information. Equipment used? -a SKYWATCH go to automated telescope with a 900mm lens with an infrared view finder plus a laser pointer. Language- English / Afrikaans
Quad Biking Atlantis Dunes
Experience an exhilarating ride on a fully automated 4-wheeled Quad Bike. Cape Town is rated as one of the most beautiful cities in the world, mainly due to its impressive natural environment. Nestled between mountains and oceans at the southern tip of Africa, The Atlantis Dunes Nature Reserve, where you can experience incredible off-road soft sand riding. Our Guided Tours take you through these open dunes that are very reminiscent of those found in the Namibian desert, with beautifully white sand and dunes undulated by the wind. No prior experience is needed as our riding instructor will be there to guide you.