Beyond Braai: The Best Places to Explore South Africa’s Heritage

Did you kick back and relax with loved ones on Heritage Day, revelling in the smoky smell of the braai, ‘boerie’ roll and drink in hand?

It’s arguably the best way to spend this beloved public holiday. But perhaps that proudly South African feeling got under your skin, and you’re itching to go beyond the Weber and lay down the tongs for adventure! If so, read on – we’ve lined up a selection of South Africa’s heritage gems where you can get to know our beautiful country better.

1. Constitution Hill

One of SA’s most historically significant spots, Constitution Hill in Johannesburg, has seen Nelson Mandela, Gandhi, Winnie Mandela, and Albert Luthuli within its walls (and some of our more notorious citizens too, like Daisy de Melker). Learn about its 100-year history through exhibits and installations which share the stories the walls whisper!

Stay:

An 11-minute drive from Constitution Hill, Hallmark House by BON Hotels tells its own story in buzzing New Doornfontein. Soak up South African heritage at this hotel in Joburg CBD through local art, city views, and music in the basement at the famed Marabi Jazz Club (where legends like Hugh Masekela have performed).

2. The Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind and its Sterkfontein Caves in North West province boast a proud space in South Africa’s heritage and the history of humankind as a whole (there’s even a Netflix documentary about it – Unknown, Cave of Bones). The famous fossils ‘Mrs Ples’ and ‘Little Foot’ were discovered here, uncovering secrets of our origins.

The Cradle of Humankind’s grass-domed Maropeng Visitor Centre reveals all said secrets with interactive family-friendly exhibits that detail a million years of human development (including one-million-year-old tools!).

Stay:

After a day of skulls and fossils, relax by BON Hotel Rustenburg’s five pools and grab a bite at the hotel’s on-site restaurant. There are a variety of rooms to choose from (family suites included) amidst manicured gardens where zebra and antelope occasionally stroll.

3. The Kruger National Park

Natural heritage? Tick! The Big Five, the Small Five, and all the ‘fives’ in between – the Kruger National Park is safari heaven. It’s the perfect place to get to know our diverse wildlife and catch some sun on game drives.

Stay:

Shishangeni by BON Hotels is right in the Kruger Park by Crocodile Gate and has three options to choose from – Camp Shonga, Camp Shawu, and Shishangeni Private Lodge. All have that authentic bush feeling, but with a luxurious spin.

4.  Cape Town Culinary Tours

You know about Robben Island and the Castle of Good Hope – both super options for exploring SA’s heritage) – but if you want a little something different, why not discover our heritage through food?

With Cape Town Culinary Tours, you can visit Bo-Kaap delis, dig into Cape Town’s best bobotie, sample ceremonial African drinks, and more – all while their guides teach you the stories behind the cuisine.

Insider tip! Cape Town Culinary Tours is running a Heritage special: Use the code Heritage15 when you book your tour with them between September and December 2024, and you’ll get 15% off.

Stay:

Enjoy apartment-style living with all the hotel extras at Majorca Apartments by BON Hotels. This accommodation in Century City has easy access to all of Cape Town’s attractions. They are pet-friendly, so you can bring your furry family members, too.

5. Picnic in the Ongoye Forest Reserve

Another one for natural-heritage lovers – but more of a hidden gem – Ongoye Forest Reserve is one of the last pieces of ancient coastal scarp forest found in South Africa. It is home to rare and endemic species like Pondoland fig trees, orchids, medicinal plants, the Zululand dwarf chameleon, and green barbet. Take a picnic and expect views of undulating hills and forest-bathing aplenty.

Stay:

BON Hotel Empangeni is a short drive from the Ongoye Forest Reserve and the coast. With zen gardens and comfy rooms, it’s a relaxing base from which to explore the area. Bonus: While you’re in town, check out the Empangeni Art and Cultural History Museum for an extra shot of heritage.

7. The National Women’s Memorial and Anglo-Boer War Museum

Boer War history buffs? This one is for you. The Anglo-Boer War Museum in Bloemfontein has extensive exhibits, including art, war memorabilia, and historical objects from the period. The grounds also feature the historic National Women’s Memorial, which was unveiled over 100 years ago in 1913 in honour of the women and children who suffered in the war. 

Stay:

BON Hotel Bloemfontein Central has its own interesting heritage – it’s the oldest hotel in Bloemfontein! Experience this vintage 70s gem (with all the mod cons, of course) and learn about all the SA legends who’ve stayed here too.

Inspired? Why make it into a heritage discovery road trip this October? BON Hotels has properties across the country, along all the key routes, and in central locations where you can explore SA’s many gems. Plus, we are running a road trip special that’ll make it wallet-friendly and a breeze to organise. Start the engine!