Adventure at Atlantis Dunes

Just 45 km from Cape Town’s city center lies the Atlantis Dunes, a vast expanse of white sand that feels like another world.

Addressing the media, Thembisile Sehloho (née Sithole), chief marketing officer of South African Tourism, shared sentiments we can all agree on: "The Atlantis Dunes offer a slice of desert paradise right on our doorstep - the dunes feel like something surreal, right in the middle of Middle Eastern sands."

Sand-boarding: Feel the rush as you glide down the dunes. It’s like snowboarding but way warmer.

Quad biking: Roar through the dunes on a quad bike for an unforgettable experience.

Self-drive adventures: If you own a 4x4, pack a picnic and explore the dunes at your own pace. Companies like Jeep Tours Cape Town offer guided day trips, making it super easy to plan your outing.

De Lille’s recent “Local is Lekker" tourism campaign highlights the importance of exploring all our provinces – not just the ones that make the postcards.

One of my favourite local content creators, Ute Hermanus, has a special way of showing her love for Cape Town.

When I first met her, she casually mentioned something that stuck with me: “I love being a tourist in my own city.”

And that’s exactly what she does; she explores Cape Town with fresh eyes, uncovering its hidden gems and celebrating its beauty. It’s a mindset I truly admire because before we pack our bags to explore the world, we should take the time to discover the magic in our backyard.

Here are a few unexpected treasures to add to your list:

Clarens, Free State

This charming little town often gets overlooked as people rush through the Free State. But slow down for a second, and you’ll discover a haven of art galleries, cosy cafés, and breathtaking mountain views.

Hike in the nearby Golden Gate Highlands National Park. Stroll through the town square and pick up locally made crafts. Sip on some craft beer at the Clarens Brewery.

Magoebaskloof, Limpopo

Nicknamed the “Land of the Silver Mist”, Magoebaskloof is a lush escape in Limpopo that feels like stepping into another world. Take a leisurely drive along the Magoebaskloof Pass. It's one of the most scenic routes in SA.

Travel smart, travel local

#Campaigns like Sho’t Left allow travellers to score discounts of up to 50% on accommodation, activities, and tours. And the best part? These deals aren’t just for the big cities. They’re designed to encourage exploration of South Africa’s hidden treasures.