10 Unusual Things to Do This Summer
Tired of the same old summer activities? Ready to explore unique and interesting attractions in South Africa? We've compiled a list of 10 unusual things to do this summer that are sure to make your holiday unforgettable. Whether you're an adventurer, a foodie, or simply curious, these activities will add a fresh twist to your summer plans.
1. Visit South Africa's Chinatown
Head to Derrick Avenue in Cyrildene, Johannesburg, and discover the vibrant heart of South Africa's Chinatown. Known as Joburg's new Chinatown, this area offers an authentic experience filled with the sights, sounds, and tastes of Asia. The streets are lined with an overwhelming choice of Chinese restaurants where you can indulge in delicacies from Manchuria, Szechuan, and Shanghai. Explore quaint shops, karaoke clubs, acupuncturists, and tea stalls. With most of the signage in Mandarin, the suburb has an unmistakably Asian vibe—a truly unique experience in Johannesburg.
Explore more with First Car Rental Johannesburg.
2. Munch on Creepy Crawlies
Ever tried Mopane worms? This traditional African delicacy isn't for the faint-hearted but is a must-try for the daring foodie. The Mopane worm (also known as Masonja) may look creepy, but those who have tasted it say it has a flavor reminiscent of chicken or biltong. These worms are a great source of protein and can be found in rural supermarkets in Limpopo, preserved in brine or a tomato and chili mix. Whether dried, deep-fried, or served with sauce, Mopane worms are an unusual yet fascinating culinary adventure.
Hire a car with First Car Rental and explore the best of Limpopo.
3. Climb Inside an Enormous Pineapple
Visit The Big Pineapple in Bathurst, Eastern Cape, the largest artificial pineapple in the world, standing at 16.7 meters high. Inside this quirky structure, you can watch a mini-documentary on the pineapple industry in the 60-seater auditorium. Climb up to the third-floor viewing deck for fabulous views of the surrounding landscape. It's not every day you get to experience life inside a giant pineapple—a truly unique South African attraction.
Book a rental car in the Eastern Cape and start your adventure with First Car Rental.
4. Visit the 'Spook House'
Get ready for a spine-chilling experience at the Jac Loopuyt House in Rondebosch, Cape Town, better known by locals as the 'Spook House'. This Edwardian-style house is rumored to have been occupied by a cult in the 1970s, leaving behind a spooky aura and some ghostly residents. Visitors have reported strange occurrences, from slamming doors to flashing lights, and some even claim to have seen the figure of a man walking the halls. If you're in the mood for a scare this summer, head to number 99 Milner Road in Rondebosch.
Drive yourself to this spooky adventure with First Car Rental Cape Town.
5. Dive In
Experience the magical underwater ecosystem of False Bay at the Pyramid Rock dive site. This dive site, perfect for amateur divers, is just 12 meters deep and boasts a magnificent kelp forest. Divers might also spot the Broadnose Sevengill Cow shark along with the local fish of the area. False Bay is a haven for marine life, offering an unforgettable diving experience this summer.
Explore False Bay with First Car Rental and dive into an adventure.
6. Fly High
For adventure seekers looking for a thrill, take a flight on a dual-control gyrocopter over Durban. These lightweight planes resemble helicopters, but their rotors propel themselves due to the air flowing through each blade. The bird's-eye view of the breathtaking KwaZulu-Natal coastline is simply fantastic, making this an exhilarating and unusual way to explore the area.
Book your car rental in Durban with First Car Rental for an aerial adventure.
7. Transport Back in Time
Explore the rich history of transportation at the James Hall Museum of Transport in Johannesburg. This is the largest transport museum in South Africa and houses an interesting collection of exhibits ranging from 18th-century horse-drawn carriages to trams and bicycles dating back to 1786. The museum also features an impressive steam vehicle collection and motor cars from the 1900s. Open Tuesday to Friday, from 9 am to 5 pm, this museum offers a nostalgic journey through South Africa's transport history.
Get around Johannesburg with ease—rent a car with First Car Rental.
8. Freefall in Soweto
Experience the adrenaline rush of SCAD Diving (Suspended Catch Air Device Diving), the latest adventure activity to arrive in South Africa. The world's highest SCAD diving site is located at the Orlando Towers in Soweto. This unique system allows for an unattached, controlled freefall—a thrilling experience like no other. The only requirement? You have to be phobia-free to take the plunge.
Book a car with First Car Rental and head to Orlando Towers for a thrill.
9. Travel to the Top of Africa
Visit the Carlton Centre in Johannesburg, Africa's tallest building, standing at 223 meters high. On the 50th story, you'll find the Top of Africa viewing deck, offering 360° views over Johannesburg. This is arguably one of the most impressive urban viewpoints in Africa. Inside the Carlton Centre, you'll discover a massive ground-level and underground shopping center—one of Joburg's most vibrant shopping destinations.
Rent a car with First Car Rental Johannesburg to visit the Top of Africa.
10. Visit the Shoe House
Head to Mpumalanga and visit the Shoe House, an unusual attraction built by artist and hotelier Ron Van Zyl in 1990. The house, which was constructed as a gift for his wife, Yvonne, is a museum showcasing Van Zyl's wood carvings and serves as the entrance to the Alfa Omega Cave. Inspired by the fairy tale of the old lady who lived in a shoe, this unique structure is a must-see for anyone visiting Mpumalanga.
Drive to Mpumalanga’s hidden gems with First Car Rental.
Book a car with First Car Rental and plan your next trip to these unusual tourist attractions for a lifetime of memories. With 49 car hire branches located across South Africa, First Car Rental makes it easy to explore the country's hidden gems.
