Surfing in Kwazulu-Natal
Kim Putter, Living the Dream Surf School
What makes Durban so great for surfing?
Known as South Africa’s ‘Surf City’, travellers come here either to learn to surf or to ride some of the famous waves they’ve seen in magazines.
What kind of prep is needed?
A reasonable amount of fitness helps, but you don’t have to be an Olympic athlete. It certainly helps if you are able to do a push up or six.
What will visitors’ most enduring memory be?
The natural high from riding your first wave all the way to the shore is surreal and, if we’ve done our job right, will leave you wanting to surf at every beach you visit throughout your life.
surflessonsdurban.co.za
Freediving in Western Cape
Daniela Daines, Cape Town Freediving
What will visitors’ most enduring memory be?
No dive is ever the same: you could find yourself among a group of playful seals, exploring wrecks, diving through the great Atlantic kelp forests, or even gliding along with whales or dolphins for company.
What kind of prep is needed?
Freediving really is for everyone who has a healthy pair of lungs, can swim and is in general good health.
What kind of equipment do you need?
We provide all gear during our courses. Freedive gear here in Cape Town would include a wetsuit, mask, snorkel, long fins and a weight belt.
capetownfreediving.com
Rock Climbing in North West
Rob Thomas, The School for Mountain Leadership
What’s the highlight of rock climbing in North West?
The wilderness. It’s not unusual to have a climbing area all to yourself, and to have baboons wandering past as well.
What makes the region so great for climbing?
North West’s Magaliesberg mountain range has excellent rock for climbing, and we’re blessed with great weather.
When is the best time of the year for climbing here?
We can climb all year, but winter (April to August) is drier with less rain. That said, summer offers us all the opportunity to swim in the streams during our lunch breaks!
sml.co.za
Three more to try
River-rafting in Free State
The Free State is is bordered by the Vaal and Orange Rivers, both offering thrilling river-rafting experiences. clarensxtreme.co.za
Mountain biking in Eastern Cape
Explore the curves and slopes of the unspoilt Eastern Cape coastline on two wheels. Suitable for beginners and experts alike, with multiple trails that vary in length and ability. dirtyboots.co.za
Bungee jumping in Eastern Cape
Set under Bloukrans Bridge on the N2 highway, this bungee spot is a magnet for thrill-seekers keen to nosedive more than 700ft down into the crevasse below. An unforgettable experience worth trying at least once. faceadrenalin.com
