Table of Contents
1. Knysna
2. Plettenberg Bay
3. Wilderness
4. Mossel Bay
5. Hermanus
Overview of Africa Tourism – Best Airbnb Locations to Stay in South Africa
How to Choose Africa Tourism – Best Airbnb Locations to Stay in South Africa
Pros and Cons of Africa Tourism – Best Airbnb Locations to Stay in South Africa
What to watch out for
Pro Tips
Recap
1. Knysna
Knysna is a town in the Western Cape province of South Africa, situated along the Garden Route. It is well-known for its picturesque setting on the edge of a sizable lagoon, with the Indian Ocean to the south and the Outeniqua Mountains to the north.
There are a number of great Airbnb locations to choose from in Knysna. For a waterfront property, there’s the Knysna Waterfront Villas, which offer stunning views of the lagoon. For something more secluded, you could try Island Cottage, which is set on its own private island in the Knysna Lagoon. And if you’re looking for something family-friendly, there’s the Rainforest View Cottage, which is set in a peaceful forest.
- It’s a great base for exploring the Garden Route.
- It’s also a very beautiful and peaceful town, with plenty of opportunities for relaxation and outdoor activities.
- The food scene is excellent, with a focus on fresh seafood and local produce.
- The people are also very friendly and welcoming, and you’ll find that the pace of life is slower and more relaxed than in bigger cities.
- Knysna is quite small, so it can feel a bit isolated at times.
- There are also some issues with petty crime, so it’s important to take basic safety precautions.
- The weather can be quite changeable, with sudden rain showers not uncommon.
- Knysna is located about two hours’ drive from Cape Town.
- Knysna has a variety of accommodation options, from luxury hotels to self-catering apartments.
- Knysna is quite walkable, but there are also taxis and buses available.
- The town has a small airport; most visitors arrive by plane at George Airport, then drive to Knysna.
- The cost of living is relatively affordable, with a range of restaurants and shops catering to all budgets.
2. Plettenberg Bay
Plettenberg Bay, often nicknamed Plett, is a town situated on South Africa’s Garden Route in the Western Cape Province. It has stunning natural beauty, with long stretches of sandy beaches and dramatic mountains. There’s also a lot to do, with plenty of activities like hiking, surfing, and golfing. And the weather is generally fantastic, with warm and sunny days year-round. Plettenberg Bay has a range of accommodations and dining options to suit all budgets. And if you’re looking for nightlife, Plettenberg Bay has a range of bars and clubs.
- Plettenberg Bay is known for its natural beauty and the variety of outdoor activities available. You can go whale-watching, hiking, kayaking, and more.
- Plettenberg Bay has a thriving culinary scene, with a range of restaurants offering everything from local seafood to international cuisine.
- Plettenberg Bay people are known for their hospitality and warmth. They’re always happy to help out visitors and make them feel at home.
- The weather is amazing, with warm summers and mild winters.
- There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, including hiking, biking, and kayaking.
- It’s a beautiful place to visit, with pristine beaches, lush green mountains, and gorgeous views.
- It’s an affordable destination, with a variety of accommodation options to choose from.
- It has a thriving arts and culture scene, with a number of galleries, theatres, and museums.
- It can get quite crowded during peak season (December to February), and prices can be higher during this time.
- It can also be difficult to find accommodation if you’re not booking in advance.
- The town is quite spread out, so you may need a car to get around.
- The traffic in and around Plettenberg Bay can be quite congested, especially during peak season.
- Plettenberg Bay is located about two hours’ drive from Cape Town, and the town itself is fairly compact, making it easy to get around on foot.
- There are a number of supermarkets and shops, as well as a range of restaurants and bars.
- There are also a number of accommodation options, from luxury resorts to more budget-friendly guesthouses.
- There are a number of car rental companies and taxis available.
3. Wilderness
This is a stunning town located on the Garden Route, and it’s well known for its beautiful nature and outdoor activities. The town is surrounded by lush forest and rivers, and there are a number of hiking and biking trails to explore. Other popular activities include bird watching, horseback riding, and canoeing. And of course, there are plenty of opportunities to relax on the beach or enjoy a meal at one of the local restaurants.
- Wilderness is very affordable, with a range of accommodation options to suit all budgets.
- The town is incredibly beautiful, with stunning views of the ocean and the forested mountains.
- The town itself is small and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot.
- It’s also very peaceful, making it a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy, and the local wildlife is abundant.
- The town is a bit remote, so it can be difficult to get to from some parts of the country.
- The weather can be unpredictable, with hot and humid summers and cool and wet winters.
- There are also limited shopping and entertainment options, and the nightlife is very quiet.
- Although the town is very safe, there have been some reports of petty crime in the area.
- Wilderness is located about 30 minutes from George and about an hour from Knysna.
- The town is spread out over a few kilometers, but the central area is quite compact.
- There are a number of accommodation options, including guesthouses, B&Bs, and self-catering apartments.
- There is a bus service that connects Wilderness to George and Knysna, and there are also a number of car rental companies in the area.
4. Mossel Bay
The small town is located about 90 minutes east of Plettenberg Bay, and it’s well worth a visit. Mossel Bay is home to a number of attractions, including the Diaz Museum Complex, the Bartolomeu Dias Museum, and the Mossel Bay Golf Club. There are also a number of beautiful beaches in the area, as well as a number of hiking and biking trails. Mossel Bay is known for its warm and welcoming people.
- First, it’s a quiet and more relaxed place, making it a great destination for those who want to escape the hustle and bustle of city life.
- Second, the prices are generally lower, so it’s a good option for budget-conscious travellers.
- Third, the beaches are stunning and often less crowded.
- Finally, the people of Mossel Bay are friendly and welcoming.
- The town is not served by any major airports. This can make it more difficult to reach, and it can also make travel more expensive.
- The town is not as developed as some of the other towns in the area, so there may not be as many things to do.
- The town is prone to windy weather, which can be uncomfortable for some people.
- The town is a popular destination for holidaymakers, so it can get crowded during peak season.
One of the most popular attractions is the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, which is home to a range of interesting exhibits, including a replica of the ship that Dias used to discover the bay. Other attractions include the Garden Route Game Lodge, where you can see lions, rhinos, and other wildlife. There’s also a variety of hiking trails in the area, as well as beautiful beaches like Santos Beach and De Bakke Beach.
5. Hermanus
Hermanus is a beautiful town located along the Garden Route, and it’s known as one of the best whale-watching destinations in the world. There are a number of whale-watching tours available, and you may even be able to spot the whales from the shore! Hermanus is also home to a variety of other attractions, including the Old Harbor Museum, the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, and a number of beaches.
- For scenery, there are beautiful beaches, like Grotto Beach and Velklip Beach. The Fernkloof Nature Reserve offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. And the Southern Right Whales!
- For wildlife, in addition to the whales, there are also a number of other animals that you can spot in Hermanus, including dolphins, seals, and birds.
- For families, there are a number of activities available for kids.
- The town can get very busy with tourists, and accommodation can be difficult to find.
- The weather can be unpredictable, with strong winds and rainfall common during the winter months.
- The town is quite small, so there may not be as much to do as in larger cities.
- It can be quite crowded during the whale-watching season.
- It can also be quite expensive, as the cost of living is higher than in some other parts of South Africa.
- The best time to visit Hermanus for whale-watching is between June and November. During this time, you’re most likely to see Southern Right Whales, as well as other types of whales, dolphins, and seals. It’s best to book a whale-watching tour in advance, as these tend to fill up quickly.
- If you want to avoid the crowds, it’s best to visit during the shoulder season, in May or December. This way, you can still see the whales, but the town will be less busy.
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Overview of Africa Tourism - Best Airbnb Locations to Stay in South Africa
South Africa has vibrant Airbnb locations in the country, and they are known for their stunning natural beauty. Locations like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, Wilderness, Mossel Bay, and Hermanus are a few of the best Airbnb locations that’ll make your stay awesome.
How to Choose Africa Tourism - Best Airbnb Locations to Stay in South Africa
Consider your budget
Airbnb offers both luxurious and affordable homes. Prior to your search, determine the amount of money you are willing to pay each night.
Think about your location
Where do you wish to be located? Staying in a central location is ideal if you plan to explore the city. Staying in a more isolated area can be more ideal if you’re searching for a more tranquil escape.
Read the reviews
Check out reviews left by previous visitors before making an Airbnb reservation. This can help you get a clear picture of what to anticipate from your visit.
Look for amenities
Some Airbnbs offer amenities such as a swimming pool, hot tub, or fitness center. Decide which amenities are important to you and look for an Airbnb that offers them.
Pros and Cons of Africa Tourism - Best Airbnb Locations to Stay in South Africa
Pros
- Beautiful scenery.
- Great restaurants.
- Good infrastructure.
Cons
- Hot and humid climate.
- Difficult to access without a car.
- Crowded during peak season.
What to Watch Out For
When booking an Airbnb in South Africa, there are a few things to watch out for:
- First, always read the reviews of the property before you book, as this will give you a good indication of the quality of the property and the host.
- Second, make sure you understand the cancellation policy of Airbnb before you book, as some properties have strict cancellation policies.
- Third, be aware of the security situation in the area you’re planning to stay in and take appropriate precautions.
- Fourth, be aware of the local laws and customs, especially regarding alcohol and drugs.
- Finally, make sure you’re aware of the exchange rate when making your budget for your trip and ensure that you’re getting the best value for your money.
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Pro Tips
Here are a few pro tips for booking an Airbnb in South Africa:
- Check the exact location of the property on a map before you book to make sure it’s in a safe and convenient area.
- Make sure you understand the host’s house rules before you book, especially regarding check-in and check-out times, pets, and parties.
- If you have any special requests, such as an early check-in or late check-out, communicate these to the host before you book.
- Pay attention to the amenities that are included in the rental, such as WiFi, kitchen access, and laundry facilities.
Recap
South Africa has the best Airbnb location stays to suit your adventure and provide plenty of culture, history, and natural beauty to explore.
When booking an Airbnb, be sure to read reviews, understand the cancellation policy, and check the location on a map.
