Nelson Mandela Bay

If strolling across a gently swaying rope bridge suspended precariously above crashing waves and rocky gorges sounds like your idea of a relaxing afternoon, then the Storms River Suspension Bridge in Tsitsikamma is your kind of thrill. Built in 1969-meaning it's had plenty of time to develop that charmingly aged wobble-this iconic bridge spans the mouth of the Storms River, dangling you between a forested heaven and the wild, unforgiving ocean below. Go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to dodge the midday tour-bus brigade and increase your odds of spotting dolphins dancing playfully in the surf or whales gliding serenely by, completely unbothered by your sweaty grip on the bridge's railing. Budget about two hours and around 90 Rand for entry into the national park, and don't forget water, comfortable shoes, and an adequate sense of humor-trust me, you'll need it when the bridge decides your dignity is overrated. But why subject yourself to such mild terror? Because there are few experiences more rewarding-or story-worthy-than conquering gravity, defying your own trembling knees, and casually name-dropping that time you gazed down on passing whales while suspended on what felt disturbingly like dental floss.

At Sardinia Bay Beach, horseback riding isn't simply about trotting along picturesque sands-it's about briefly becoming the charismatic, windswept protagonist of a cinematic cliche, albeit one who's slightly nervous about saddle soreness. Situated near Schoenmakerskop (which locals affectionately abbreviate to 'Schoenies,' sparing us all some linguistic embarrassment), this untouched stretch of coastline feels like the wild, scenic backdrop of a Hemingway novel, minus the existential angst (mostly). Choose an early morning ride to catch the coast at its most serene; the sea air crisp enough to make you feel heroically rugged yet picturesque enough for the obligatory Instagram humblebrag. Book at least a week in advance to guarantee your trusty steed, and budget around R550 per person-a small price to pay for cinematic glory. Wear jeans, bring sunscreen, and hold tight to your dignity if your horse suddenly mistakes a passing gull for an existential threat. Even if you leave with nothing more than slightly damp clothing and a newfound respect for more elegant riders, the stories you'll tell afterward-perhaps a bit exaggerated over drinks-are priceless.

Venturing into the Valley of Desolation near Graaff-Reinet is like stepping onto the set of a spaghetti western filmed by Salvador Dali-only with fewer cowboys and more existential pondering. Carved by time into towering, Martian-like columns, this stark and surreal landscape practically mocks the word "scenic"; rather, it slaps you awake with its raw, unsettling beauty. Arrive before sunset-when the spires blush fiery orange-as if you're stumbling upon Earth's attempt at abstract art. Plan your overnight adventure a couple of weeks ahead, because even desolation can get annoyingly crowded by intrepid travelers seeking solitude. Bring sturdy shoes, plenty of water, and a decent camera-this is no place for slipping on rocks, dehydration-induced hallucinations, or blurry "trust me, it was amazing" photos. Budget roughly 300-500 ZAR (about 20-30 USD) for park fees and camping permits-small change for an existential epiphany beneath a Milky Way bright enough to ruin every future stargazing experience back home. Ultimately, a night spent in this wondrous wasteland is worth it-if only for the bragging right of casually dropping into conversation, "Ah yes, the time I willingly slept in South Africa's Valley of Desolation...".