Unique South African Road Trips: 9 Overlooked Towns

When it comes to South African road trips, the same towns seem to pop up. Along the Garden Route, Knysna and Plett are often suggested, Coffee Bay on the Wild Coast is a must, and Kalk Bay has held onto its popularity. But along the country’s well-loved routes lie little dorpies waiting to take their places on the “must-go” lists. Let’s explore nine often overlooked towns to consider for South African road trips.

Small Towns in the Western Cape to Visit

Barrydale: The Land of Fruit Trees

Route 62 sign in Barrydale South Africa | Photo: Pascal Schmidt

Along the famous Route 62 and bordering the Overberg and Klein Karoo, Barrydale lies in the Tradouw Valley. Thanks to its favourable climate, it has been the ideal spot for fruit trees to thrive, so you’ll see a lot of apples, pears, oranges, apricots, figs, and peaches around.

It’s all about slow living in this small town, so wander down the streets to check out the cafés, restaurants, and craft shops. A must-visit is Diesel & Crème for one of their popular milkshakes. Hardy’s Memories of Africa is a fantastic place to explore and buy some souvenirs – this store has products from all over Africa.

Warmwaterberg Spa is a mineral hot spring close to Barrydale. Stop by to slip into their hot water, high iron pools to enjoy the calming effects; there are camping sites, chalets, historic bathhouses, and caravans for accommodation options. For the adventurous, you can head to Tradouw Quads, between Montagu and Barrydale, to explore quad biking trails across the Langeberg Mountain range and Little Karoo.

Arniston: A Seaside Escape

Sandstone shelves in Arniston South Africa | Photo: DewaldKirsten via Getty

If you want your South African road trip to include picturesque seaside views, consider stopping in Arniston. This small coastal town is located on the coast of the Overberg region near Cape Agulhas and is characterised by its lime-washed and thatched houses; it has attracted many photographers and artists over the years. The jagged coastline was a hazard for passing ships – in 1815, The Arniston sank here, hence the name of the town.

There are two nature reserves in this area: De Hoop and De Mond Nature Reserves. Visit De Hoop Nature Reserve for birdwatching and hiking. Here you can spot 260 bird species, including the only remaining Western Cape breeding colony of the rare Cape vulture and the African black oyster catcher. De Mond Nature Reserve, between Arniston and Struisbaai, is home to grysbok, steenbok, grey duikers, and caracals. Stop here for a riverside picnic, swimming in the Heuningnes estuary, and whale watching in the spring.

McGregor: Small Town Wine Vibes

Aerial view of McGregor South Africa | Photo: fivepointsix

When you think about a charming, quaint village, you’re probably thinking about McGregor’s aesthetic. The thatched cottages along the foot of the Riversonderend Mountains create a picturesque view and an ideal stop during a Western Cape road trip.

McGregor forms part of the province’s broader wine route, so there are wineries you can visit for wine tastings. This is also a place to forget about chain stores and franchises and instead explore the range of small businesses here, from thriving corner shops and well-loved pubs to owner-run restaurants that are frequented by the locals.

Don’t miss out on visiting Eseltjiesrus Donkey Sanctuary. This farm looks after rescued donkeys, giving them a peaceful place to live out their days. You can visit from Thursdays to Sundays to interact with the donkey residents and enjoy coffee at the on-site café.

Small Towns in Gauteng to Visit

Cullinan: Home of Diamonds

Cullinan train station South Africa | Photo: demerzel via Getty

If you’re looking for a close-by small-town adventure, consider Cullinan, just 90 minutes from Johannesburg. This is where the biggest diamond in the world, the Cullinan Diamond, was found in 1905. The Cullinan Diamond Mine is still operational; you can take a tour to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes.

Get your adrenaline needs met at Adventure Zone Cullinan, where you can go ziplining, quad biking, and abseiling. History buffs can’t miss out on exploring the Ditsong Sammy Marks Museum. This mansion will take you back in time to the Victorian era in South Africa through the eyes of entrepreneur Sammy Marks and his family.

Another historic place to visit in Cullinan is the Cullinan Golf Club. First established in the early 1900s, this is still a stunning place to hit a few balls. This nine-hole course is best booked in advance.

Bronkhorstspruit: Home to the Largest Buddhist Temple in Africa

Sunset in Bronkhorstspruit South Africa | Photo: THEGIFT777

This little farming community 50 km east of Pretoria is not only known for the beauty of the Bronkhorstspruit Dam Nature Reserve, an ideal place for fishing and birding, but also for the stunning Nan Hua Buddhist Temple.

The largest Buddhist temple and seminary in Africa, this temple serves as the headquarters on the continent for the Fo Guang Shan Order (Buddha’s Light Mountain order). Bronkhorstspruit donated the land in 1992 and is now a retreat centre and guesthouse, where people visit from all over the world.

If you’re an angler, this town needs to be on your South African road trip list. The Bronkhorstspruit Dam features one of the most productive bank angling spots in South Africa. The thick grass that lines the banks serves as fantastic cover for bass awaiting their prey.

Parys: 4×4 and Rafting Adventures

Hiking trail in Parys South Africa | Photo Marieke Peche via Getty

While not in Gauteng, Parys is just over a one-hour drive from Johannesburg, making it a fantastic stop on your way to the Free State. If you love exploring quaint little shops and meandering along walkways, this is the place to be.

On the first Saturday of every month, located next to the bridge over the Vaal River, is the Hartelus Market. Bring a picnic blanket to lay out next to the banks of the beautiful river and enjoy all the delicious treats you can get from the stalls. From craft beers and coffees to homemade wraps, sandwiches, and sweet treats, there’s a lot to choose from.

Because of its location near the Vaal River, Parys has become a whitewater rafting hotspot. If you’re driving a 4×4 on your road trip, take a turn to explore the Berakah 4×4 Eco Trail on Berakah Farm. On this route, you’ll go past Vredefort Dome, a meteor impact site, as well as savannah, bushveld, mountainous areas, and riverbeds.

Small Towns in KwaZulu-Natal to Visit

Underberg: For Nature Lovers

Road to Underberg South Africa | Photo: DavidCallan via Getty

Located at the foot of the world-famous Drakensberg Mountains, Underberg is a rural farming community that enchants with its natural beauty and is an ideal base for Drakensberg adventures.

Anglers will love the Mzimkhulu River for its fly fishing opportunities, while the Garden Castle State Forest is a must-visit for exploring rich biodiversity during scenic walks.

Howick: The Place of Many Waterfalls

Howick Waterfall in Howick South Africa | Photo: Firaxx via Getty

In the heart of the Midlands lies Howick, a small town that entices road trippers to stop and sink into its peaceful atmosphere.

At Howick Falls, you can see the incredible sight of the Umgeni River falling approximately 95 m over cliffs. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can abseil down the falls. Nature lovers can also head to the Midmar Nature Reserve to see a variety of species such as red hartebeest, black wildebeest, zebra, blesbok, reedbuck, and oribi. Water sports and camping are also available here.

Howick has an important spot in the history of South Africa, as it’s the place where former president Nelson Mandela was arrested in August 1962. The Nelson Mandela Capture Site is a cultural and historical exhibition that features a sculpture of 50 steel columns to form an image of Mandela when viewed at the correct angle.

Dundee: Anglo-Boer War History

This historical town was named by Peter Smith after his hometown in Scotland. It was an important coal mining town once, but now it focuses on agriculture. Walking around this town, you’ll see many historical buildings, some dating back over a century.

Dundee was also where the Anglo-Boer War began in 1899. You can visit the Talana Museum, Heritage Park and Battlefield for excellent exhibits on the battles of the area.

There are so many small towns that ooze charm and history and are well worth a stop during road trips through South Africa.

Use this list for inspiration for your next long weekend getaway!