7 of the most unusual and unique things to do in South Africa

South Africa is certainly not boring. Every part of the country offers a variety of iconic views and experiences. But if you’re on the search for something out of the norm for your next adventure, this is the ultimate list of unusual and unique things to do in South Africa.

The list of unmissable things to do in South Africa

1. The Upside Down House, Hartbeespoort

In South Africa, there is a house that seems to be turned on its head, giving it the apt name of the Upside Down House.

Located near Hartbeespoort, the tourist-attraction-slash-art installation is about 75 kilometres north of Johannesburg. Not only is the house flipped upside down on the outside, but all its interiors appear flipped as well. You’ll find couches, tables, windows, and more the wrong side up – creating an interesting destination full of photo-ops to suit every traveller's imagination.

2. Red Desert, Port Edward

Amongst its lush grassy locations and green trees, in Port Edward, there is a small nature reserve that stands out from its surroundings. The Red Desert measures 200 metres in diameter and 11 hectares in area. Greenery surrounds this rocky patch of red and is a stone’s throw away from the ocean.

It consists of fine red sand, some human-made circles, and little boulder hills to climb. You can observe the entire Red Desert from a boulder hill. It is a great hike and one of the most mesmerising things to do in South Africa.

Things to do in South Africa? Book your stay!

Planning a trip to the Red Desert? Book your accommodation at our Waterberg self-catering accommodation. Just over an hour away from this wonder of the coast, find our apartment bordering Amanzimtoti's main beach. Come home to this seaside escape after a fun-filled day in the desert.

3. Bourke's Luck Potholes, Ehlanzeni

At the junction of the Blyde River and the Treur River in South Africa's Mpumulanga region, thousands of years of water erosion have created a unique and otherworldly geological feature. The swirling waters of the rivers have dug huge cylindrical holes in the sandstone rock. The different layers of soil in each hole give them a unique colour and make for a striking and colourful landscape.

In the Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve, where you'll find the potholes, there are bridges and viewing platforms from which visitors can see the interesting rocks from different angles. There's also a small but interesting geological museum and short hiking trails.

4. The Post Office Tree, Mossel Bay

Looking for historical things to do in South Africa? Visit the ancient milkwood tree, where South Africa's postal service began with a letter left in a boot. It's believed this tree is the country’s first-ever mailbox.

The story goes that a Portuguese captain lost most of his fleet in a storm in 1500. Before returning to India, he left a warning in a boot dangling from this Milkwood tree - near a spring from which sailors often drew water. The tree became a letterbox where sailors exchanged letters.

The tree, believed to be about 600 years old, still sends and receives mail today. A large letterbox in the shape of a giant boot has been erected under the tree, where letters travel all over the world, using a special stamp. Find this tree in the Bartholomeu Dias Museum Complex in Mossel Bay.

5. Book your stay and visit Mossel Bay

Choose from our two delightful seaside apartments in Mossel Bay. Elgin House, our self-catering apartment, houses 2 spacious bedrooms and 1 bathroom. Walk to nearby popular restaurants and shops, and find an abundance of attractions and activities within the Garden Route.

If you're looking to have rooftop sundowners with a view, there's a spacious communal braai area on the roof of the Vista Bonita apartment building. Check in to our 2 bedroom, 2 bathroom unit for your next holiday.

6. Swim with the seals, Hout Bay

Experience an unforgettable snorkelling trip with local seals in Hout Bay. If you're a good swimmer and have a penchant for wildlife, this experience is at the top of your list of things to do in South Africa. With expert snorkelling guides accompanying you and all the equipment, you can safely dive, swim and interact with the seals on this unimaginable adventure.