A taste of Dubai dunes in the Eastern Cape

If it is not the exquisite pictures you see online of people on camel's backs exploring the golden dunes of Dubai, it's the adventurous slip and sliding, or 4x4 buggy rides that may tempt you to have a similar experience in your backyard. While you may not be able to find a camel-filled landscape in South Africa, you can still get the rest at Bokness in the Eastern Cape. Boasting beautiful views and things to do outdoors, Bokness is the next pit stop for anyone who wants to feel like they have left the country. Make sure to visit popular spots such as Aston Bay, Van Stadens River mouth, the Maitland mouth dunes and the Sundays River mouth.

Visiting the Australian outback in the Karoo

This one is for people who enjoy the great outdoors. Be it a camping trip or a road trip through the Karoo, there is much to say about the sense of freedom the Karoo offers its travellers, especially the silence of lying under a sky filled with stars for those moments where you feel like you would like to escape. Nestled between the Eastern Cape, Northern Cape and Western Cape, you will not be short on variety and artisanal stores that offer hand crafted goods.

The greener version of the Grand Canyon in Mpumalanga

A place that tends to be on most travellers' bucket list is something to add to yours if you are yet to visit South Africa's green version of the Grand Canyon. The Blyde River Canyon, which teams with picturesque greenery and animal life, offers an escape from city life to a place where everything folds at a luxurious pace. Take advantage of the neighbouring sites within the area and tap into a bit of a solo or family adventure that will get your blood rushing.

A step back in time into a historic and artistic town

For people who entertain the idea of time travelling to a historical time and an art scene that will have you feeling like you have left the country, consider a short left to the tranquil village of Clarens in the Free State. This artistic community is rich with galleries and creativity, along with historical architecture is any traveller's delight. With a variety of things to do such as visiting the neighbouring Golden Gate National Park or visiting the prehistoric rock painting in the area fly fishing, hiking and abseiling, there is something for everyone.

A taste of the Swiss Alps in Eastern Cape

It may not boast the grandiosity of the Swiss Alps, but it is sure to give you a taste of snowboarding for anyone who has been itching to explore it. Tiffindell Ski Resort in the Eastern Cape, which is the only ski and snowboarding resort in South Africa, is another addition to add to your bucket list when it comes to spots to visit in winter.