6 places to see wildflowers in the Western Cape this spring
From August to September 2025, visitors have several prime locations to explore beyond the famous West Coast National Park.
Here are six spectacular places to see the blooms… Postberg in the West Coast National Park. Image: canva
A must-see, especially the Postberg Section (open only during flower season). Expect rolling hills of daisies and a mix of purple, orange, and white blooms, with wildlife often visible among the flowers. Blooms in Namaqualand. Image: canva
For a road trip experience, head along the west coast up north to Namaqualand, where vast fields of wildflowers stretch for kilometres. Towns like Springbok and Kamieskroon serve as gateways to some of the most dazzling displays in the country. Cederberg mountains coming alive with colour. Image: canva
The Cederberg mountains offer dramatic backdrops to fields of colourful blooms. Explore hiking trails or drive scenic passes to witness the region's unique plant life.
Known for its quaint small town charm and Darling Wildflower Show, this area bursts with wildflowers during spring. Surrounding farmlands and reserves showcase spectacular flower displays and rare plant species. Biedouw Valley flowers. Image: canva
Hidden near Clanwilliam, the Biedouw Valley is famous for vibrant wildflower fields and mountain views. The best time to visit is late August when blooms are at their brightest. Wildflowers in Hermanus, Western Cape. Image: canva
While famous for whale watching, Hermanus and the Overberg also offer coastal wildflower spectacles, with fynbos-rich landscapes and seasonal blossoms adding to the scenic drive. Visit on sunny days for flowers to fully open.
Aim for mid-August to mid-September for peak blooms.
Weekday visits help avoid high traffic.
Don't forget your camera and a good pair of walking shoes.
Leaving a comment below, or sending a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1
Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
The South African
6 hours ago
- The South African
American content creator's huge TIP leaves Soweto Uber driver close to tears
There's something undeniably magnetic about South Africa's warmth – a charm woven into the way locals engage with others, a spirit of generosity and joy that seems to effortlessly captivate those who visit. This was the experience of American content creator Steven Schapiro, who recently travelled to Cape Town and found himself moved by the authenticity and charisma of South Africans. In a viral moment shared on TikTok, Schapiro captured a heartwarming interaction at a local restaurant where he was dining with his unofficial tour guide, driver, and friend. The group was served by a waitron named Olivia, whose humour and energy made an impression. 'Something about this woman tells us that she is this way with all her customers,' said Schapiro, who was so touched by her presence that he left her a '$500 tip' at the end of their meal. NOTE: While the TikTok video suggested it was $500, it didn't appear to be that much. @steven_schapiro tipping waitresses $500 in South Africa ❤️ #fyp #foryou ♬ original sound – Steven Schapiro It turns out Schapiro's trip had a generous mission – he aimed to give away $100 000 (approximately R1.9 million) to deserving people across South Africa, including waitresses, tradespeople, and those simply in need of a helping hand. From paying rent to covering bills, Schapiro used his platform to highlight everyday kindness and reward it in meaningful ways. Meanwhile, in another touching moment, he shared an Uber ride with a driver from Soweto. During their conversation, the driver revealed that his wife had given birth earlier that day. In a moment of kindness, Schapiro gave him R1 000 – and, inspired by the man's joy and humility, followed it with another R1 000. @steven_schapiro tipping uber drivers $500 in South Africa ❤️ #foryou #fyp ♬ original sound – Steven Schapiro Schapiro's videos, which continue to circulate widely on social media, serve as a global showcase of the genuine warmth South Africans are known for. He has in excess of 4.5 million followers on TikTok. Whether it's in a smile, a joke, or a kind word, that uniquely South African charm has left a lasting impact on a visitor determined to give back. 'It's clear that hosting people and making them feel at home comes naturally to us,' one viewer commented. 'This is just who we are.' Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1 Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
IOL News
7 hours ago
- IOL News
South African Students' Delegation to China 'Chasing Dreams – Building Dreams'
The scorching July sun mirrored the Chinese peoples warm hospitality. Organised by Sanda University's Confucius Classroom at Chinese Culture and International Education Exchange Centre, South Africa. The 2025 "Chinese Bridge" South African University/College Students delegation featured 12 participants from seven South African universities or colleges. Led by Confucius Classroom's Chinese Director Professor Wenhong Dai, the delegation packed a full schedule in two have visited Shanghai, Suzhou, Nanjing and Beijing. The members of the South African students' delegation came to China with their dreams. From "Chasing Dreams in China" to "Building Dreams in China", they completed a wonderful trip to China and started to build a new Chinese dream for their life! South African Students' delegation to China arrived at Shanghai Pudong Airport. Image: Supplied "Chasing dreams of China" — The South African Students' delegation members of the team realised their dreams of "friendly exchange, cultural exploration and knowledge learning". Image: Supplied The First Dream: the Dream of Friendly Communication The trip to China has strengthened South African students desire to build friendly ties with the Chinese people and promote cultural exchanges and cooperation between South Africa and China. They hope to make Chinese friends, enhance mutual understanding and friendship through this visit, and build a bridge for cultural exchange between China and Africa. The delegation's first stop was Sanda University, Shanghai. Where they were warmly received by Vice President PAN Huibin and JIANG Fengying. Attendees included Dean CAO Huiying of the School of Education, and Vice Dean LIU Tingting. Deputy Director YI Miao (also serving as Director of the International Exchange Office), Dean CAO and Professor FAN Jianhua had already arranged all preparatory work for the South African students' delegation visit to China. Leaders of Sanda University and members of the delegation. Image: Supplied Ms SONG Wenjun, deputy director of the Center for International Cultural Exchange of the School of Education, was enthusiastic about staying in the school during the summer vacation and carefully designed the reception activities for the South African delegation. Four volunteer students quickly became good friends with the members of the delegation within five days. At the farewell gathering before departing Shanghai for Suzhou, the cultural performances by students from both countries blossomed into a beautiful fruit of friendship. The Zulu poetry recitations, graceful South African modern dance, and a medley of songs and dances by all participants radiated joy and vitality. These included traditional folk songs symbolising Africa's primal nature and mystical charm, the cheerful theme song of the 2010 World Cup that conveyed African unity, confidence, and hope, popular African dance rhythms symbolising anti-apartheid culture, and the national anthem representing the "Rainbow Nation" of inclusiveness and optimism. Alongside these performances, students from Sanda University performed Chinese folk songs, ethnic dances, modern dance, erhu solos, and calligraphy workshops. The interplay of two cultures created a warm resonance of cultural understanding, allowing students from China and South Africa to deeply feel the warmth of shared heritage. Through this cultural fusion, the friendship between young people from both nations has grown stronger. Members of the Delegation perform with great enthusiasm. Image: Supplied Group Photo after the farewell party at Sanda University. Image: Supplied At Suzhou City University, male members of the South African delegation played football with Chen Wei, a renowned player from the Jiangsu City Football League, exchanging skills. At Xian Jiaotong-Liverpool University and Nanjing University of Finance and Economics, South African delegation members engaged in lively discussions about their impressions of China with international peers from South Africa, Russia, Kazakhstan and other countries studying in China. Exchanges between students from delegation and XJTLU. Image: Supplied Exchanges between international students and delegation at NUFE. Image: Supplied At Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, leaders of the International Office arranged professional lectures for delegation members from several Southeast Asian countries, which stimulated the enthusiasm of relevant students in the South African students delegation to study at BUPT. Delegation members and international students from BUPT. Image: Supplied At the School of Marxism, Peking University, Dean SONG Chaolong designed a cutting-edge academic symposium "Civilisation Mutual Learning in the Era of Globalisation" for the South African students delegation. This in-depth exchange not only deepened the cultural understanding of Chinese and African students of each others countries, but also laid a good foundation for further exchanges and cooperation in the future. What was truly inspiring was the thorough preparation of speeches by South African delegation members. They took turns to share heartfelt reflections on their experiences in China. Mo Yundi, a student from the University of South Africa(UNISA), remarked: "I feel honoured to participate in the 'Chinese Bridge' delegation program. It provides us with opportunities to travel across continents, exchange ideas, and learn from each other. During my stay in China, I gained not only language skills but also insights into Chinese life stories, traditions, and values. Cultural exchange initiatives like 'Chinese Bridge' are vital. They remind us that despite our differences, we share common aspirations and can build bridges of understanding and friendship together." Academic seminar of delegation and Peking University students. Image: Supplied Delegation members and students of School of Marxism, Peking University. Image: Supplied The Second Dream of Chasing Dreams: the Dream of Cultural Exploration South African students delegation members were filled with curiosity about China's long history, culture and rapid development before their departure. They dreamed of deeply understanding China's classical and modern civilisations. Through this visit to China, they pursued the dream of exploring Chinese culture and personally touched and felt the pulse and profoundness of Chinese culture. In Shanghai, they immersed themselves in the cosmopolitan culture of Nanjing Road and marvelled at the Chinese mainland breathtaking views along the Huangpu River via cruise ship. The century-old International Settlement architecture in Puxi harmonised with the modern grandeur of Pudong's skyline. At Disney World, they discovered the magical blend of traditional fairy tale aesthetics and Chinese cultural elements. Strolling through Nanjing Road, they experienced the vibrant commercial atmosphere characteristic of this cosmopolitan metropolis. Feel the wind of Huangpu River and enjoy the skyline along the two sides. Image: Supplied At the South African Consulate General in Shanghai, South African delegation members were warmly received by Consul General Ms. Phuti Joyce Tsipa (Qi Pu), who encouraged these students to study Chinese well and contribute to the development and friendly exchanges between China and South Africa in the future. The Consul General of South Africa in Shanghai and delegation members. Image: Supplied In Suzhou, the delegation members experienced Chinese Kunqu Opera and explored the renowned Humble Administrators Humble Administrator's Garden. They were captivated by the classical costumes and melodies of traditional opera, marveled at the poetic charm and ingenious craftsmanship of Chinese garden architecture, and witnessed the cultural diversity along Pingjiang Road with its long history. They also appreciated the cultural heritage and innovative spirit embodied by Eslite Bookstore. Delegation members' tour at the Humble Administrators Garden. Image: Supplied The most eye-opening experience for the delegation was the Kunqu Opera cultural immersion program at Suzhou City University. Professor Yang Hui from the School of Urban Culture and Communication hosted a masterclass featuring a renowned Kunqu troupe, teacher Zhao Jiacheng provided English translation and introduction. Dressed in vibrant traditional costumes, participants learned exquisite makeup techniques and mastered the delicate gestures of the "lanhuazhi" (finger show) art form. Their lifelike performances of every gesture and glance sparked bursts of laughter throughout the event. Delegation members immerse themselves in Chinese Kunqu culture. Image: Supplied Delegation members with Kunqu opera actors. Image: Supplied In Nanjing, delegation members linger in the enchanting scenery along the Qinhuai River at Confucius Temple, immersed in its vibrant homestay culture and bustling commercial atmosphere. At Deji Plaza–China's second-largest commercial landmark in terms of sales, they experience its stylish shopping environment, premium brand portfolio, diverse business formats, and rich cultural integration. At the China Imperial Examination Museum in Nanjing, delegation members explored the history of Chinas imperial examinations and savored the aesthetic charm of traditional Chinese attire and calligraphy. They even drank "ink" (actually grape juice) to understand the meaning behind the Chinese proverb "Having ink in ones belly." The event was live-streamed by reporters from the International Channel of 'Nanjing Daily', with video coverage shared on both domestic and international social media platforms. Delegation members wear ancient Chinese costumes and experience calligraphy art. Image: Supplied Delegation members taste "ink". Image: Supplied Delegation members with their calligraphy teacher and his works. Image: Supplied During their visit to China, South African delegation members were delighted to learn how to use South African bank cards linked to WeChat Pay and Alipay through the guidance of volunteer students at Sanda University. In downtown Shanghai, they took the subway to various destinations, enthusiastically boarding Chinas high-speed trains along the way—from Shanghai to Suzhou, then from Suzhou to Nanjing, and finally to Beijing. Delegation members play the South African high-five game in the subway. Image: Supplied In Beijing, at the "Center for Language Education and Cooperation", delegation members were warmly received by project officers Mr. TANG Jinyue and Mr. WU Lei. They toured the "China Exploratorium," obtained a stamped visitation "Passport," and visited iconic landmarks including Confucius, the Great Wall, Peking Opera, the Temple of Heaven, high-speed rail stations, the Birds Nest stadium, pandas, and hot pot restaurants. In Beijing, they also explored Peking University's famous "University Centennial Hall", Yan nan Garden, and Weiming Lake, gaining profound appreciation for the institutions rich historical legacy and humanistic ethos. The awe-inspiring grandeur of the Forbidden City and the majestic scale of the Great Wall, a national symbol, transported them through millennia of history, allowing them to experience the unique charm of China's classical architecture and cultural heritage that has endured the test of time. Delegation members visit "Center for Language Education and Cooperation". Image: Supplied Delegation members in front of the Peking University "University Centennial Hall". Image: Supplied Delegation members on the Great Wall at Badaling. Image: Supplied During their nightly leisure time after dinner, delegation members visiting China abandoned taxis and subways in favour of shared bikes. They lingered in the vibrant atmosphere of Houhai and Nanluoguxiang, two historic districts, where late-night crowds would unlock bikes with QR codes and ride through the capital's streets and alleys. Their excitement kept them out until 1 or 2 AM before returning to their hotel for rest. Feng Jie, a member of the delegation who happily rode on a shared bike. Image: Supplied Everything in China makes them feel new and happy. They are amazed at the rich cultural charm, rapid economic development, countless kinds of delicious food, safe and stable social environment and rich tourism resources in China. The Third Dream of Chasing Dreams: the Dream of Knowledge Learning It is widely recognised that contemporary China has demonstrated robust development momentum and remarkable achievements across multiple fields including culture, arts, science, technology, and economy. We extend our gratitude to LI Yanping, the instructor of the "Morning Chinese" HSK Practical Course Training Program, for her meticulously designed crash course aligned with the official HSK Level 1 test standards for the South African delegation members. Additionally, we thank HanKao International for arranging an exclusive HSK Level 1 test at Xi'an Jiaotong-Liverpool University for all 11 delegation members. The results exceeded expectations, with multiple candidates passing the test, including Feng Jie who achieved a high score of 180 points. Delegation members' HSK1 class at Sanda University. Image: Supplied During their study tour to China, South African delegation members gained insights into China's advanced knowledge in various fields. Through cultural visits and experiences, they explored the historical sites, traditional culture, modern civilization, and educational models of four Chinese cities... In terms of science and technology knowledge, they visited the "State Key Laboratory of Information Photonics and Optical Communications" at Beijing University of Posts and Telecommunications, where they learned about China's top scientific and technological information in 5G communication, optical communication, satellite Internet and other fields. Delegation members visit the State Key Laboratory of BUPT. Image: Supplied Building Dreams: Learn Chinese Well—Study in China Through this trip, the 2025 South African Students Delegation members to China fell deeply in love with China, accumulated knowledge and experience for their own academic and future career development, and opened a new Chinese dream—to study in China! Taking this opportunity, the Chinese director of Confucius Classroom at Chinese Cultural and International Education Exchange Centre encouraged these delegation members to study diligently under Confucius Classroom teachers upon their return to South Africa. They aimed to pass the HSK (Chinese Proficiency Test) Levels 1-5 and apply for Chinese government scholarships to pursue masters degrees in China in the near future. The delegation members remained highly motivated, maintaining lively discussions in their WhatsApp group after returning home, eagerly anticipating online Chinese language courses starting in August. The successful hosting of the "Chinese Bridge" South African Students Delegation to China has not only created unforgettable memories for South African students but also injected new vitality into China-South African higher education exchanges. This marks the first delegation of South African university students to visit China since the Confucius Classroom at Chinese Cultural and International Education Exchange Centre successfully organised four delegations of South African principals to China since 2018, demonstrating greater appeal, innovation, and practical effectiveness.
The South African
8 hours ago
- The South African
Where forest meets the sea: Coastal woodland escapes in SA
South Africa's coastline is world-famous for its rugged beauty, wildlife, and endless beaches. But beyond the ocean views lies a lesser-known treasure: coastal woodlands where ancient trees meet rolling surf. These rare ecosystems create some of the most enchanting travel experiences in the country, combining the serenity of forests with the drama of the sea. Here are three woodland escapes to explore… Tsitsikamma National Park. Image: canva Known as the heart of the Garden Route, Tsitsikamma is where towering Outeniqua yellowwoods and lush fynbos hug dramatic cliffs. Visitors can walk among tree canopies, kayak in river gorges, and watch dolphins from suspension bridges over the Indian Ocean. The famous Otter Trail, one of South Africa's most iconic hikes, takes you through dense coastal forest, past waterfalls, and along rocky shorelines. The Touw River in Wilderness. Image: canva Nestled between mountain forests and the sea, Wilderness National Park blends rivers, lakes, and estuaries with lush woodland. Canoeing on the Touw River while listening to the call of the Knysna turaco is a uniquely calming experience. The nearby beaches and paragliding cliffs add to the area's adventure appeal. Kosi Bay, KZN. Image: canva At the northeastern edge of KwaZulu-Natal, Kosi Bay is known for its pristine lakes and ancient fishing traditions. Here, coastal woodland mixes with mangroves and sand dunes. Snorkelling among tropical fish or hiking through forested trails that lead straight onto deserted beaches feels like stepping into another world. Let us know by leaving a comment below, or send a WhatsApp to 060 011 021 1. Subscribe to The South African website's newsletters and follow us on WhatsApp, Facebook, X and Bluesky for the latest news.
