The Top 10 Best Adventure Holidays in South Africa - as selected by our adventure savvy Dirty Boot’s team!

Adventure in South Africa embodies the old sense of the word; “exploring new places, grand mysteries…it’s about letting curiosity guide the way…inviting you to sense risk and feel alive.” In South Africa, adventure is more than an experience—it’s a journey through the heart of nature itself, guided by people who understand and cherish every inch of it.

South Africa’s sprawling wild landscapes have facilitated the rise of a flourishing adventure scene. There are a dizzying array of options out there. Choosing the right experience can be a daunting task. We’ve handpicked 10 outdoor holidays in South Africa that we feel super confident endorsing. Chosen for the authenticity of the adventure, great value, and the professionalism of local experts who bring these experiences to life, most of these adventures are ones we’ve done ourselves. Imagine trekking in the Drakensberg with a guide who knows each rare flower as if it is an old friend, or rafting the rapids of the Orange River with an adventurer who has been doing it for decades and has riveting stories to tell? Your adventure starts here…

1. Orange River Wilderness Rafting Expedition
Journey through the rugged beauty of the Northern Cape along the mighty Orange River on a multi-day rafting trip. This stretch of river, set against an arid desert backdrop, offers a special blend of serenity and adventure, of physical activity and deep relaxation. With each paddle, you’re drawn deeper into the rhythm of the river, where time slows and the natural world takes centre stage.
Since 1997, Gravity Adventures has been guiding travellers down these waters, sharing their love for this iconic landscape and perfecting an activity that has fast become the top family adventure in South Africa.
Gravity’s seasoned team, known for their deep respect of the environment and commitment to safety, ensures a smooth experience for everyone—from first-time rafters to accomplished outdoors folk.


2. A Kruger Back Packing Trail
This journey into the heart of Kruger National Park is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure, offering an intimate, unfiltered experience of South Africa’s most iconic game reserve. Led by two world-class safari guides, you’ll step away from everyday comforts to fully embrace the primal beauty of Africa’s wilderness. This expedition is designed for those seeking a profound connection to nature, far beyond a typical safari. Under the guidance of expert trackers, you’ll learn to read the land, attuning to subtle signs that reveal the presence of elusive wildlife.
This isn’t merely a safari; it’s an invitation to engage with the land as our ancestors once did, guided by those who understand its secrets best.

Kruger Backpacking Trail - The Best Adventure Holidays in South Africa


3. Drakensberg Mini-Traverse Trail
Hike the “dragon’s back,” home to South Africa’s highest point, Mount Ntlenyana, 3,482 meters. For those seeking a true mountain adventure, the Drakensberg Mini-Traverse Trail offers a multi-day journey through its most iconic landscapes, including the breathtaking 948-meter Tugela Falls and the striking spires of Cathedral Peak. With skilled guides ensuring safety and richness of the experience, you’ll navigate rugged trails, camp under star-filled skies, and get to know the wild beauty of one of South Africa’s finest hiking destinations.


4. Kosi Bay Adventure Trail
Active Escapes hosts the Kosi Bay Adventure Trail, in the northern corner of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park in KwaZulu Natal. This is a unique journey through a pristine landscape of interconnected lakes, forests, and beaches. With wetlands being one of the most threatened habitats in the world, this is a unique opportunity, to immerse yourself in this watery wonderland. Over 4-6 nights, you’ll explore the lake system on foot, by kayak, and motorboat, with opportunities for world-class snorkelling. Your luggage is transferred between lodges, allowing you to enjoy the trek with ease. Guided by locals who share insights into the area’s heritage, the flexible itinerary can be tailored to suit fitness levels and interests, with options to add kayaking through Kosi Forest Lodge’s lush raffia palm forests.


5. Tailor-made Mountain Biking Holiday
Let Day Trippers put together a cycling itinerary for you and discover Cape Town’s stunning natural places including the winelands and routes around the base of Table Mountain. Day Trippers is a family-run business with a deep love for all things cycling. With years of experience Day Trippers has an immense store of accumulated knowledge of all the best and least ‘trodden’ trails. They offer a range of experiences—from thrilling one-day rides around the Cape Peninsula to immersive multi-day trips through diverse terrain. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced cyclist, Day Trippers tailors each adventure for an unforgettable experience. Let this passionate team guide you through the Cape’s most scenic paths!

Tailor-made Mountain Biking Holidays - The Best Adventure Holidays in South Africa


6. Six Day Lesotho Pony Trek
Malealea Lodge & Pony Trek Centre is the gateway to authentic Lesotho adventures. Nestled in the heart of Lesotho’s mountains, the lodge offers a range of experiences, but pony trekking on a Basotho pony is by far the most memorable way to explore this region as well as experience its culture. Pony treks, lasting from one hour to six days or more, take you through stunning mountain passes, past ancient San rock paintings, and to some of Lesotho’s tallest waterfalls. No prior riding experience is needed, and knowledgeable Basotho guides, along with a packhorse, ensure your safety. Lodging in remote Basotho huts is simple yet memorable, offering gas cookers, basic utensils, and mattresses on the floor.

Lesotho Pony Trekking - The Best Adventure Holidays in South Africa


7. A Wild Coast Walking Holiday
What better place for a wild adventure than South Africa’s Wild Coast? Wild Coast Walks offers unforgettable slackpacking experiences along South Africa’s stunning Wild Coast, featuring small family run hotels and eco-friendly lodges. The 80 km trail connects Kob Inn to Crawfords at Chintsa, with hiking packages ranging from 3 to 5 days. With its dramatic sea cliffs, lush forests, golden beaches and timeless Xhosa culture, this region provides an immersive experience for walkers.

Wild Coast Walking Holiday - The Best Adventure Holidays in South Africa


8. Tailor-made Motorcycle Tour
Adventure Bike Safaris offers bespoke motorcycle tours tailored for both beginners and seasoned riders. With expert knowledge of South Africa’s most iconic routes, they’ll guide you through stunning desert landscapes and lush mountain passes. Their multi-day tours provide a perfect blend of adventure and comfort, featuring stops at cosy lodges renowned for their warm hospitality. Experience the thrill of riding on scenic backroads while immersing yourself in the local culture. Whether you seek a leisurely ride or an exhilarating journey, Adventure Bike Safaris promises an unforgettable motorcycle holiday, ensuring every rider enjoys the adventure of their day dreams.

Tailor-made Motorcycle Tours - The Best Adventure Holidays in South Africa


9. A Garden Route Slackpacking Trail
Slackpacking offers the perfect blend of outdoor adventure and luxury, allowing you to immerse yourself in nature while enjoying gourmet meals, fine wine, and cosy accommodations. The Garden Route is an ideal destination for this experience, renowned for its diverse ecosystems, and scenic hiking trails. Wander through the fascinating flora known as fynbos, adorned with striking proteas and delicate ericas, before venturing into the cool of lush indigenous forests where you might spot elusive bushbuck. Many slackpacking routes follow the stunning coastline, showcasing dramatic cliffs, quiet beaches, and serene tidal pools.

Garden Route Slackpacking Trail - The Best Adventure Holidays in South Africa


10. Tailor-made Safari
And if you’re still overwhelmed by the vast array of magnificent holidays on offer, let African Travel Gateway’s professional travel consultants, in operation since 1996, use their many years of experience and expertise in South Africa’s adventure industry to put together an itinerary that will truly sync with your holiday aspirations.

Tailor-made Safaris - The Best Adventure Holidays in South Africa