The Most Unique Things for a Foodie to Do in South Africa
South Africa is a haven for foodie travelers, and aside from delicious cuisine found around every corner, there are tons of unusual experiences all involving—you guessed it—food. We’ve selected the best of the bunch to ensure you taste all that this magical country has to offer.
1. Go the traditional route in Soweto
Pub, Restaurant, African, South African
2. Explore the tastes of Africa
Bar, Bistro, Butcher, Cafe, Market, Restaurant, African, South African
This is a culinary experience not to be missed, as Dlala Nje takes curious visitors on a tour of a lifetime in Yeoville, Johannesburg. The area is saturated with culture and the tour combines architecture and amazing views with some of the most interesting dishes you’ll ever taste. Visit a Congolese village, a West African inspired market (where you can pick up some mopani worms), and a Cameroonian eatery. Wear comfy shoes and bring cash in case you’d like to buy any extras.
3. Spend a day (or two) at The Spice Route Destination
Bakery, Bistro, Cafe, Charcuterie, Cheesemonger, Deli, Restaurant, Wine Seller, Coffee Shop, Food Stall, African, South African
Paarl’s beautiful Spice Route Destination is a carefully curated collection of artisanal venues all situated on a scenic estate, perfect for a delicious day out. Here you can stock up on biltong, charcuterie, cakes, chocolates, wine, spices, and much more. You’ll also be able to see artisans in action as they make everything from preserves and sweets to alcoholic spirits. And while you’re here, don’t skip a visit to The Trading Company and Red Hot Glass to get your hands on unique décor items.
5. Spoil yourself at The Test Kitchen
Restaurant, Contemporary, Fusion, South African
6. Visit the famous Goat Tower at Fairview Cheese & Wine
Cafe, Cheesemonger, Deli, Farm Shop, Restaurant, Wine Seller, South African
7. Eat in a shark tank
Restaurant, Seafood, South African
8. Chow down on Indian cuisine
Market, Indian, South African
Apart from dining with sharks, there’s much more to explore in Durban. The city is well known for its large Indian community, and its markets, restaurants, and street vendors are where you’ll find the best curries, bunny chows, and spices this side of, well, India. Head to Victoria Street Market for the best of the best and a punch of culture and tradition.
9. Taste ostrich meat
Restaurant, South African
10. Enjoy traditional Cape Malay meals
Restaurant, South African
The colorful Bo Kaap in Cape Town is all about Cape Malay culture and cuisine, and what better way to experience it than on a cooking tour? Since being brought to South Africa from the Dutch East Indies in the 17th and 18th centuries, the flavorful and spicy, yet mild, cuisine has become an integral part of the country’s foodie scene. On the Bo Kaap Cooking Tour, you’ll learn about the history and culture as well as how to fold samosas and mix the perfect Masala spice.
11. Try exotic game meats
Restaurant, African, South African
South Africa is a meat-loving country, and it’s one of few places where you’ll find a restaurant serving everything from beef to crocodile. Meat is skewered on Masaai swords and grilled on an open fire, and the best part is that you can eat as much as you like. Go with an open mind and taste as many of the dishes of possible, and then get seconds of your favorites.
Since you are here, we would like to share our vision for the future of travel - and the direction Culture Trip is moving in.
Culture Trip launched in 2011 with a simple yet passionate mission: to inspire people to go beyond their boundaries and experience what makes a place, its people and its culture special and meaningful — and this is still in our DNA today. We are proud that, for more than a decade, millions like you have trusted our award-winning recommendations by people who deeply understand what makes certain places and communities so special.
Increasingly we believe the world needs more meaningful, real-life connections between curious travellers keen to explore the world in a more responsible way. That is why we have intensively curated a collection of premium small-group trips as an invitation to meet and connect with new, like-minded people for once-in-a-lifetime experiences in three categories: Culture Trips, Rail Trips and Private Trips. Our Trips are suitable for both solo travelers, couples and friends who want to explore the world together.
Culture Trips are deeply immersive 5 to 16 days itineraries, that combine authentic local experiences, exciting activities and 4-5* accommodation to look forward to at the end of each day. Our Rail Trips are our most planet-friendly itineraries that invite you to take the scenic route, relax whilst getting under the skin of a destination. Our Private Trips are fully tailored itineraries, curated by our Travel Experts specifically for you, your friends or your family.
We know that many of you worry about the environmental impact of travel and are looking for ways of expanding horizons in ways that do minimal harm - and may even bring benefits. We are committed to go as far as possible in curating our trips with care for the planet. That is why all of our trips are flightless in destination, fully carbon offset - and we have ambitious plans to be net zero in the very near future.