PICS: Seven places in South Africa you won’t believe exist

South Africa is a country full of breathtaking landscapes, natural wonders, and unique destinations that often feel otherworldly. Here are seven beautiful places in South Africa you wouldn’t believe exist…

1. Blyde River Canyon, Mpumalanga

Tucked away in Mpumalanga, Blyde River Canyon is a geological marvel often overlooked by travellers. As the third-largest canyon in the world, it is known as the world’s largest green canyon due to its lush vegetation. Stretching for about 25 kilometers, the canyon offers unparalleled views of its steep cliffs and deep gorges.

2. Hole in the Wall, Eastern Cape

On the Wild Coast of the Eastern Cape lies a natural phenomenon that feels like a scene from a fantasy movie – Hole in the Wall. This striking rock formation, carved by the relentless waves of the Indian Ocean, is a towering cliff with a perfectly shaped archway that the sea has punched through.

Beyond its stunning beauty, Hole in the Wall is steeped in Xhosa mythology. According to legend, it was created by sea spirits who breached the rock to create a path for a forbidden love story. Whether you believe the myth or not, standing before this immense structure as the waves crash through is an unforgettable experience.

3. Cederberg Mountains, Western Cape

The Cederberg Mountains in the Western Cape are otherworldly, with their jagged red-orange sandstone formations and surreal landscapes. This rugged wilderness is home to some of the most fascinating rock formations in South Africa, including the famous Maltese Cross and Wolfberg Arch. These massive structures look like they belong on a distant planet, making it hard to believe you’re still on Earth.

4. Tsitsikamma National Park, Garden Route

For a coastal escape unlike any other, visit Tsitsikamma National Park along South Africa’s famous Garden Route. This park offers a dramatic meeting of land and sea, with dense indigenous forests stretching right to the edge of jagged cliffs that plunge into the Indian Ocean. The result is a landscape where massive waves crash against rock faces, creating a sense of untamed wildness.

5. Augrabies Falls, Northern Cape

In the heart of the semi-arid Northern Cape lies the thunderous Augrabies Falls, a hidden gem of South Africa. Here, the Orange River plunges 56 meters into a deep gorge, creating a powerful spectacle that has earned its place as one of South Africa’s most impressive waterfalls.

6. Sani Pass, KwaZulu-Natal

One of South Africa’s most thrilling drives, Sani Pass, is a steep, winding road that climbs through the Drakensberg Mountains. This treacherous pass, often called the “Roof of Africa,” links South Africa with the mountainous kingdom of Lesotho. The journey up Sani Pass is not for the faint of heart – it’s a rocky, hair-raising 4×4 route that rewards travellers with jaw-dropping views of the mountains and valleys below.

At the summit, you’ll find Africa’s highest pub, where you can enjoy a drink while soaking in the extraordinary landscape that surrounds you.

7. Namaqualand, Northern Cape

From a seemingly barren desert to a sea of vibrant flowers, Namaqualand in the Northern Cape is a phenomenon you have to see to believe. Every year, during the spring months of August and September, the dry, dusty landscape of Namaqualand transforms into a riot of colour as millions of wildflowers bloom. This breathtaking floral display attracts visitors from all over the world.