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Best Places for a Long Weekend in South Africa

01 December 2023
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It’s the (long) weekend, baby! Time to hit the road for that mini-break you’ve been dreaming about.

In South Africa, we’re blessed with a healthy sprinkling of public holidays, gifting us with a semi-regular schedule of long weekends – and with them, loads of opportunities to explore Mzansi. So whether you’re doing only 3 nights away or extending your Easter weekend getaway, check out these places for a long weekend in South Africa and find adventure in your own backyard!

1. Long weekend getaways from Johannesburg

  • Sun City Cabanas
  • Best for: families
  • Getting there: 2.5-hour drive from Johannesburg

Family holidays at Sun City are all about finding your fun in the sun! Catering to all guests, but especially to kids, the Cabanas are the most relaxed family accommodation at Sun City. Located on the edge of the lake, you’ll have access to mini golf, Waterworld and an incredible bird and animal sanctuary.

  • Mabula Game Reserve
  • Best for: couples
  • Getting there: 2.5-hour drive from Johannesburg

Situated in the Malaria Free Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province, Mabula Game Reserve promises extraordinary wildlife encounters. Explore the grassland plains and rocky outcrops of the reserve in search of the Big Five and fill your days and nights with bush-inspired fun, from quad biking and bird walks to stargazing drives and dam picnics. It’s a magical wildlife experience you’ll never forget.

2. Long weekend getaways from Cape Town

  • The Whale Coast
  • Best for: families, couples, friends
  • Getting there: 1.5-hour drive to Hermanus

The Cape Whale Coast, near the southern tip of Africa, is a pristine stretch of coastline that runs from the hamlet of Rooiels in the west to Quoin Point in the East. It’s flanked by towering mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, and is known as “Heaven on Earth.”

The heart of the Whale Route, Hermanus is famous for being one of the world’s best whale-viewing sites from June to November. Stroll, swim or surf among the secluded, rock-sheltered coves and the long beaches, or hike through the fynbos of the surrounding mountains.

  • Special mention: 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
  • Best for: couple’s romantic spa weekend
  • Getting there: 20-minute drive from Cape Town City Centre

Nestled between the folds of the 12 Apostles Mountain Range and offering magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean, the 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa is the ultimate escape for loved-up couples wanting to relax and be pampered while indulging in unbeatable views, discreet service and extraordinary charm.

3. Long weekend getaways from Durban

  • Drakensberg Sun Resort
  • Best for: families
  • Getting there: 2.5-hour drive from Durban

Relax, unwind and enjoy the good things in life at the Drakensberg Sun Resort, tucked away in one of South Africa’s most scenic regions. Wake up to views of the “Dragon Mountains” before taking your pick from a host of things to see, do and experience on your fun-filled family holiday in KZN. There’s a spa, a kids’ playground and an outdoor pool. Rowing boats and canoes are available for use on the lake, and there are tennis, squash and volleyball courts. Horse riding and mountain bike rentals are offered.

  • Special mention: The Oyster Box
  • Best for: date nights and couple’s getaways in Durban
  • Getting there: 20-minute drive from Durban City Centre

Combine the colonial charm and nostalgia of a bygone era with all the modern comfort and amenities you’ve come to expect from a Red Carnation Hotel. Add on an unbeatable seaside location, world-class cuisine and celebrated wines, and you have the ultimate romantic weekend getaway from Durban.

A full-service spa, state-of-the-art gym and infinity pool complete the wellness facilities, while two swimming pools, a private library and 24-seater movie theatre will ensure that you are kept thoroughly entertained.

Need more local inspo? Check out all our South Africa travel packages… TGIF, SA!

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