If you look beyond the well-known South African tourist attractions like the Big 5 game reserves, Table Mountain, and Robben Island, you'll find some hidden gems tucked away from the main roads. These lesser-known sights are just waiting to be explored. First Car Rental has compiled a list of 10 unconventional tourist spots that are definitely worth discovering. Rent a car from First Car Rental and take the road less traveled to these hidden treasures.
1. Riemvasmaak, Northern Cape
Deep in the Karoo, Riemvasmaak is a 75,000-hectare wonder of dry rocks and craggy canyons. The landscape, carved out by volcanic eruptions, is popular with the 4x4 crowd, while the hot springs are a major draw for visitors to the Northern Cape. Hire a 4x4 from First Car Rental to navigate this rugged terrain and enjoy the natural beauty of Riemvasmaak.
2. Golden Gate Highlands National Park, Free State
Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the northeastern Free State lies the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. This national park gets its name from the brilliant shades of gold that flicker off the sandstone cliffs in the sun. Rent a car from First Car Rental to explore the stunning landscapes of this picturesque park.
3. Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area, Western Cape
Much of the water in Cape Town trickles down from this World Heritage Site, located 120km north of the city. The Groot Winterhoek Wilderness Area is known for its rugged, wild landscape with exceptional rock formations, perfect for hiking. Visitors interested in culture can also see ancient San and Khoi rock paintings. Book a car rental from First Car Rental Cape Town to discover this hidden gem in the Western Cape.
4. Valley of Desolation, Eastern Cape
The Valley of Desolation in the Eastern Cape is a geological phenomenon. Declared a National Monument in 1939, this valley is filled with vertical cliffs and dolerite columns towering 120m into the air, the result of 100 million years of volcanic and erosive forces. Hire a car from First Car Rental to experience the awe-inspiring sights of this unique landscape.
5. Sani Pass, KwaZulu-Natal
The route up Sani Pass requires a 4x4 vehicle by law and is not for the faint-hearted. The mother of all South African mountain passes, it summits at 2,876m (9,436 ft). For the brave few who reach the top, the view is well worth the effort. Rent a 4x4 from First Car Rental Durban to tackle this challenging but rewarding mountain pass.
6. Augrabies Falls National Park, Northern Cape
With attractions like Moon Rock and Echo Corner, Augrabies Falls National Park offers sights and sounds to behold. The raging falls, plunging 61m into the gorge below, create an almost deafening roar, which is why the native Khoikhoi people named it Aukoerebis—"place of great noise." Hire a car from First Car Rental to explore this dramatic natural wonder.
7. Wolkberg Wilderness Area, Limpopo
Known as the "cloudy mountains," Wolkberg offers both easy and strenuous walking trails in a picturesque landscape. The sheer mountain splendor and mystery of the mist-covered peaks make any amount of exertion worth it. Rent a car from First Car Rental to immerse yourself in the serene beauty of this remote wilderness area.
8. Magaliesberg, North West
The Magaliesberg Biosphere Reserve, one of eight in South Africa, is characterized by remarkable scenic beauty, unique natural features, cultural heritage, and sites of archaeological interest dating back millions of years. Hire a car from First Car Rental to explore the rich history and stunning landscapes of the Magaliesberg.
9. Namaqualand, Northern Cape
Although primarily an arid region, Namaqualand comes alive every spring with a fantastic display of wildflowers, earning it the nickname "daisy season." The region also features waterfalls, great areas for off-roading, and a World Heritage Site. Book a car rental from First Car Rental to witness the breathtaking transformation of Namaqualand in bloom.
10. Valley of a Thousand Hills, KwaZulu-Natal
With unspoiled nature, wildlife, magnificent scenery, wining and dining, and warm country hospitality, the Valley of a Thousand Hills is the perfect combination of local flair and outdoor adventure. Rent a car from First Car Rental Durban to experience the natural beauty and cultural richness of this hidden treasure in KwaZulu-Natal.
