If you've never stood on a surfboard before, start here. Muizenberg is the most famous beginner surfing spot in South Africa, less than an hour's drive from Cape Town. The colorful beach huts, laid-back vibe, and gentle, long waves make it the perfect place for your first surf session. But even if you have more experience, you can surf well here too!

Fun fact: there's a pair of killer whales in the bay at Muizenberg that keeps all the sharks away from the bay.

This small, hidden bay between Wilderness and George is a favorite among locals and travelers alike. The right point break often runs super clean and is suitable for both longboarders and shortboarders. The bay itself is small and cozy, with a few surf shops and a little restaurant, and it has a relaxed vibe.

From the water, you have a stunning view of the cliffs and tropical greenery, as if you've stepped into a surf paradise from a movie.

Jeffreys Bay – also known as J-Bay – is a must-visit for anyone serious about surfing. The spot Supertubes is globally recognized as one of the longest and fastest right-hand point breaks. With the right conditions, you can ride a wave here for 300 meters (!).

But J-Bay has something to offer for every skill level: spots like Kitchen Windows and The Point are more accessible and perfect for practicing your technique. Every July, the WSL competition takes place here, a true surfing celebration! This spot is perhaps the most famous place to surf in South Africa, attracting many visitors from all over the world.

Mossel Bay is located between Plettenberg Bay and Cape Town and offers both relaxed waves for beginners (Inner Pool) and stronger sections (Outer Pool) for those looking for a bit more challenge. There's a good chance you'll share the waves with some curious dolphins. The town itself isn't very special, but it does have a nice bay with plenty of seafood restaurants. You can surf here and then enjoy fresh fish at a small local spot by the harbor.

Plettenberg Bay, or just "Plett" as the locals call it, is a great spot along the Garden Route where you can easily mix surfing with relaxing. Central Beach is perfect for beginners to practice, and for those with a bit more experience, Lookout Beach and the waves at Robberg are more fun and challenging. In the waters around Plettenberg, there are plenty of seals, so they'll probably keep their distance from you!

• Rent locally: At almost every spot, you can easily rent a board and wetsuit, so you don’t need to bring anything yourself.

• Time it right: Swell and wind can vary by location. Check an online surf forecast or ask local instructors for tips.

• Respect the locals: Surf etiquette applies in South Africa as well – be friendly and wait your turn.

• With or without lessons: If you're a beginner, taking surf lessons is highly recommended. At South Africa Nomads, we work with reliable partners for surf lessons.

Are you getting excited to ride the waves yourself? During our South Africa Nomads trip , you'll not only surf at the most beautiful spots in the country but also experience many more unique adventures, like safaris, wine tastings, and hikes during the ultimate road trip.

Want to experience it for yourself? Check out our South Africa trip and discover the adventure of a lifetime!

South Africa is one of the few countries where you can safely and easily go on a safari by yourself. Especially in Addo Elephant National Park, the routes are clear, the infrastructure is good, and the chances of seeing animals are very high.

During a self-drive safari, you experience everything at your own pace. You decide where to stop and how long to watch a herd of elephants or a group of zebras crossing the road. From your own vehicle, you set your own agenda without a guide.

Addo Elephant National Park is a popular spot for a safari in South Africa, and for good reason. The park is close to the famous Garden Route and is home to an incredible variety of wildlife: herds of elephants, buffalo, zebras, kudu, ostriches, hyenas, and if you're lucky, you might even see lions! Yet, it’s not too crowded, mainly because there’s a limited number of visitors allowed in.

During your self-drive safari through Addo, you'll be driving on well-maintained paved and gravel roads, and the signage is clear. This allows you to search for wildlife in a stress-free and safe way.

From your own vehicle, you can often spot animals from a distance. And sometimes... they just stand right in the middle of the road. It’s always a special experience.

If you want more certainty in spotting animals like lions or rhinos, Schotia is an excellent addition to Addo. This private game reserve is nearby and offers a nice contrast to the self-drive experience in the national park. Here, you'll head out with a guide in an open jeep, usually during an afternoon safari that transitions into the evening.

Schotia is a bit smaller, which means you're more likely to see lions, rhinos, and other animals that are harder to find in the larger parks. The guides know the terrain inside and out and know exactly where to go. The animals in Schotia still roam freely and have more than enough space.

What many travelers appreciate is the combination of Addo (self-driving) and Schotia (guided safari). This way, you get the most out of your safari in South Africa, without compromising on independence or experience.

A good safari starts with proper preparation. Want to go on a safari yourself? Check out our road trips from South Africa Nomads. With our South Africa trip, you'll get a roadbook and an app that details what to expect where, where to refuel, where to stock up on food, and which routes are worth taking.

Still, there are a few basics to keep in mind:

• Bring binoculars – sometimes animals are just out of sight.
• Respect the park rules – stay in the car, keep your distance, and don't feed the animals.
• Drive slowly and attentively – the animals set the pace, not you.
• Make sure to have snacks and water in the car – you might be on the road for a while without nearby facilities.

With this preparation, you can confidently go on a safari in South Africa.

A road trip in South Africa isn't complete without a safari! Addo Elephant National Park is the perfect place to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. The park is famous for its large population of elephants, but you can also encounter buffalo, lions, and rhinos. Choose an organized safari or explore the park at your own pace in your car—both options provide an unforgettable safari experience.

You can also combine the safari with a visit to the Schotia Private Reserve. In this reserve, you'll spot even more different animals like hippos, giraffes, rhinos, and crocodiles.

Fun Fact: Addo Elephant NP is one of the few places in the world where you can see the ‘Big Seven,’ including southern right whales and great white sharks in the nearby waters.

Off the coast of Hermanus, you'll experience a magical natural wonder: whale watching! This might be one of the most unique activities in South Africa. Hermanus is globally recognized as one of the best places to see these impressive creatures up close. Especially between June and November, you have the greatest chance of spotting them when the southern right whales and humpbacks come by to mate and give birth. Whether you're hopping on a boat or peering into the sea from the shore, the experience of whale watching is unforgettable. Out on the open water, you're likely to spot seals and dolphins as well. Those who are really lucky might even catch a glimpse of the African penguin.

Fun Fact: In Hermanus, they have what's called a ‘whale crier’. This is someone who keeps a close eye on the whales and blows a horn when they are spotted.

Explore the untouched nature of South Africa with a kayaking trip through Tsitsikamma National Park. This park, located along the Garden Route, is famous for its stunning scenery and suspension bridges over the ocean. Paddle with a guide along the Storms River, passing under the suspension bridges and deeper into the pristine wilderness. Further along the river, you'll swap your kayak for a lilo, an inflatable boat. The guide will share all about the unique nature and wildlife along the way. If the sea is too rough, you'll hike the first part of the tour, which features a trail with breathtaking views. An unforgettable experience!

Tip for adventurers: Combine the kayaking trip with a hike in Tsitsikamma National Park. There are various trails to explore in the park – a must for nature lovers!

If you love surfing, a visit to Jeffreys Bay is a must during your trip through South Africa. Jeffreys Bay, located in the Eastern Cape, is renowned worldwide for its impressive waves and amazing surf spots. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced surfer, you'll find perfect conditions for a surf lesson at any level. The waves are powerful, the beaches are expansive, and the vibes are relaxed. You'll find various surf shops and trendy cafes and restaurants.

Good to know: The best time to surf in Jeffreys Bay is between June and September, when the waves are at their peak. But even outside these months, it's still a fantastic place to practice and enjoy the surf vibe.

Excited about these activities? With South Africa Nomads, you can experience all these activities in South Africa during your 11-day road trip with a 4×4 Suzuki Jimny + rooftop tent or the lodge-to-lodge concept. You'll travel along the most beautiful coastal routes, through the Garden Route, Addo Elephant National Park, and the wine regions, staying at idyllic campsites or guesthouses and B&Bs. Are you ready for an adventure?