Explore South Africa This Easter

TThe Easter long weekend is the perfect time to kick back with your loved ones and create special holiday memories. This is your chance to swap the usual staycation for an unforgettable adventure in a country bursting with culture, history, epic landscapes, and some of the friendliest people you’ll ever meet. There’s never been a better time to come visit South Africa!

Easter in Mzansi (that’s what the locals call SA) is all about family, feasting, and fun—and trust us, there’s no shortage of places to explore! From quirky small towns and breathtaking coastlines to bustling townships and star-lit deserts, South Africa is packed with hidden gems just waiting for you to uncover.

By exploring these attractions, you contribute directly to local economies, supporting small businesses, artisans, and community initiatives. This sustainable form of tourism helps create jobs, empower local entrepreneurs, and foster social cohesion.

To get you started here are a few favourite spots to visit this Easter for a break the whole family will love and remember:

1. African Stonehenge, Mpumalanga

Take a trip through history. Nestled in the rocky hills near eNtokozweni also known as Machadodorp in the Place of the Rising Sun, the African Stonehenge is a 100-foot-diameter circle in the shape of a tomb. Also known as Adam's Calendar or Blaauwboschkraal Stone Ruins, there are many theories about their origin and who built them, but it’s widely believed that the Stonehenge wasbuilt as a sun calendar by an ancient civilisation some 75,000 Years ago.

2. The Big Pineapple, Eastern Cape

Nom nom. You’ll be tempted to take a massive chunk out of The Big Pineapple, set in sleepy Bathurst, an agricultural town in the Eastern Cape. The pineapple structure is 16m tall, made of fibreglass, and is the largest pineapple building in South Africa. It's a must-see for the little ones, who will learn about the pineapple industry and take Instagram-worthy pics with their new favourite pineapple above the sea!  If you are in Bathhurst over a Sunday stop in at the farmers market for a tasty local experience.

3. Bo-Kaap, Cape Town, Western Cape

For the lovers of heritage and colour. This Easter, visit the richly diverse and vibrant community of Bo-Kaap. Set on a slope in the Mother City, it’s home to the predominatelyCape Malay community and characterised by the display of colourful houses that create a sense of wonder and awe. While in Bo-Kaap, there are plenty of opportunities to indulge in the delicious combo of a Western Cape Easter tradition, pickled fish and freshly baked hot cross buns. 

4. Central Karoo, Western Cape

The semi-desert landscape situated in and around thetowns of Prince Albert, Beaufort West, Lainsburg andMatjiesfontein, known as the ‘Great Duchess of the Karoo’ due to its preservation of its Victorian buildings, provide opportunities for you to explore some of the natural wonders South Africa has to offer.  From spectacular sunsets on the horizon, abundant bird and wildlife, star gazing at a clear night sky where the surface of Jupiter can be spotted through a telescope, fossil hunting around Laingsburg and more the central karoo offers a true getaway from city life.

Considering visiting Matjiesfontein? Then book a spot at the graded 3-star heritage hotel The Lord Milner. According to folklore it is one of the “most haunted hotels” in the country - just ask at reception why the ghost of ‘Katie’ still roams the halls of this charming place.

This area is also a foodie delight with tender Karoo Lamb roast a must for any Easter Sunday meal.  Enjoy a delicious taste of Karoo lamb sourced from local farmers. The restaurant at the Lord Milner Hotel is known for its array of Karoo lamb dishes or head to Prince Albert and try out the slow roasted Karoo lamb at Karoo Kombuis.

If you are looking to stock up on road trip snacks its worth making a stop in Laingsburg where Karoo Biltong, a local butchery, is known for its tender and well spiced biltong selection a true South African delicacy.

5. Parys, Free State

Just over an easy hour’s drive from Johannesburg, Parys is an ideal getaway spot. Situated within the VredefortDome (the world’s biggest meteorite impact site) and running along the Vaal River, Parys is steeped in cultural and historical heritage. From people watching at one of Pary’s many coffee shops, to skydiving, river rafting or fishing and more, Parys is also in proximity of several game reserves in the area.  The cosy small town atmosphere is the perfect town for the ‘browser’ who can spend a leisurely afternoon browsing the many quaint shops and galleries scattered through the town.

6. Satyagraha House, Johannesburg, Gauteng Satyagraha House, commonly known as Gandhi House, is a museum  in Johannesburg for lovers of history and culture. The house once belonged to Mahatma Gandhi, who lived there more than 100 years ago. Tucked among grand old trees and fragrant herb gardens, the historical house museum offers a once-in-a-lifetime chance for travellers to experience a past era.

Whether you’re after wild adventures, cultural deep dives, or just some well-earned relaxation, South Africa has it all! So why not make 2025 the year you trade in the usual Easter plans for an epic Mzansi experience?

So, grab your passport, book that flight, pack your bags and see why South Africa is the place to be this Easter.