By Gugulethu Tshabalala
August in South Africa is more than just the tail-end of winter; it’s Women’s Month, a time to reflect, reconnect, and celebrate the beauty and resilience of being a woman. And what better way to do that than by hitting pause on daily life and planning a girls’ getaway or solo escape? Whether you’re craving wide-open beaches, mountainside silence, or heart-thumping adventure, South Africa offers the perfect blend of soul-soothing scenery and unforgettable experiences. From thrilling outdoor activities and luxury spa days to food that comforts and excites, this is your ultimate guide to planning a trip that’s all about you.
What to Do: Adventure Meets Rejuvenation
Imagine starting your trip with something that gets your heart racing, like standing on the edge of the Bloukrans Bridge in Tsitsikamma, ready to take the plunge on the world’s highest commercial bungee jump. It’s not just about the adrenaline; it’s a powerful reminder of what you’re capable of.
If heights aren’t your thing, try kayaking along the Storms River Gorge, hiking through the lush forests of the Drakensberg, or signing up for a surf lesson in Muizenberg. For road trip lovers, the Garden Route offers a mix of coastal beauty and charming small towns worth xploring, from Wilderness to Knysna.
But a Women’s Month getaway doesn’t have to be all go-go-go. After the thrill, unwind with a visit to a wellness retreat. The KwaZulu-Natal Midlands is a dream destination for this. Think open-air massages at Fordoun Spa, yoga classes overlooking the hills, and hot stone treatments that melt away stress. Solo travellers will find peace in places like Hogsback, where the quiet forests and mountain views feel like a warm embrace.
Food for the Soul (and Stomach)
No trip is complete without good food, and in South Africa, that’s never hard to find. Start your mornings with a flat white and flaky pastry at a local café in Stellenbosch or Maboneng. For a full culinary experience, book a tasting menu at Cape Town’s La Colombe, consistently ranked among the world’s best restaurants. The beautifully curated courses and serene setting make it perfect for a special night out with friends or even a solo celebration.
In Joburg, The Shortmarket Club offers contemporary South African cuisine with flair, while Durban’s Indian Quarter is a haven for spicy street food that warms you from the inside out. And for those laid-back afternoons? A vineyard picnic at Spier or Boschendal, complete with fresh bread, local cheese, and crisp wine, is the definition of bliss.
Markets are also a must. The Neighbourgoods Market in Braamfontein and the Bay Harbour Market in Hout Bay are great places to sample everything from vegan treats to seafood paella and pick up a few handmade souvenirs while you’re at it.
Where to Stay: Sleep in Style
After a day of xploring, eating, and maybe even dancing, you’ll need a place to rest your head, preferably one that’s as gorgeous as your Instagram feed. If you’re looking to treat yourself, The Silo Hotel in Cape Town is a bucket list stay, with its striking architecture, rooftop pool, and views that stretch across the city and sea. For a more grounded experience, Babylonstoren in the Cape Winelands blends farm life with luxury.
Wake up to birdsong, pick fruit from the orchards, and end the day soaking in a clawfoot tub with a glass of red. Beach lovers can head north to Thonga Beach Lodge, tucked away on KwaZulu-Natal’s remote iSimangaliso coastline. Here, the days are slow, the sand is soft, and the ocean is just a few steps away from your suite. It’s perfect for solo travellers in need of solitude or groups of friends
looking to reconnect without distraction. Closer to Joburg? A weekend escape to Steynshoop Mountain Lodge in Magaliesberg offers crisp mountain air, starry skies, and rustic elegance without the long drive.
Let This Month Be About You
Too often, women spend their days showing up for others, at work, at home, in relationships. This Women’s Month, we say: show up for yourself. Whether it’s a solo road trip or a spontaneous getaway with your girls, let the journey remind you that you deserve joy, adventure, peace, and indulgence.
Because life is short. And girls? Girls just wanna have fun.
