Where to go in SA this Heritage Day long weekend

DAY trips allow travellers to explore South Africa on a budget. Here’s how to spend less than R150 in these nine provinces:

KWAZULU-NATAL

Hillcrest Paintball

Guests can enjoy paintball, laser tag and Airsoft, suitable for ages 16 and older. Two paintball games, including a protective mask, jacket and 200 paintballs, cost R150 per person. Laser tag starts from R120 per person for four games and all equipment. Visit www. hillcrestpaintball.co.za

Pure Venom

Located in Shelly Beach on the South Coast, Pure Venom is known as the biggest reptile farm in Africa. There is also a petting zoo. Entry costs R140 for adults and R120 for children aged 4 to 12 years, and pensioners. See www. purevenom.com

EASTERN CAPE

Morgan Bay Cliffs

The escapement boasts some stunning views – and Morgan Bay Cliffs doesn’t disappoint. The slabs of dolerite provide ideal vantage points for watching the sunrise, enjoying a sundowner or spotting dolphins. Activities, at additional costs, include guided hikes and picnics. Entry is free. See www.morganbay.co.za

Self-drive at national parks

The Eastern Cape boasts some parks you can visit for self game drives. These include the Addo Elephant National Park (entry costs R86 for adults and R43 for children under 12), the Tsitsikamma National Park (R65 for adults and R32 for children), Mountain Zebra National Park and Karoo National Park (both R59 for adults and R28 for children). See www.sanparks.org

WESTERN CAPE

Spice Route

Under an hour’s drive from Cape Town is the Spice Route. This Paarl attraction offers tastings and other experiences at establishments located within walking distance of each other. Visitors can sample beer, wine, chocolate and other artisanal food. Entry is free. See www.spiceroute.co.za/

Wonderdal

Wonderdal’s immersive and interactive edutainment experience will keep children occupied for hours. Based in Hazendal Wine Estate in Stellenbosch, children aged 5 to 13 can discover science, nutrition and nature across a variety of indoor and outdoor activity zones. Rates start from R125. See www.wonderdal.co.za/

NORTHERN CAPE

Riemvasmaak Hot Springs

Nestled between the Orange and the Molapo rivers, the Riemvasmaak hot springs were formed from volcanic eruptions. The 75 000ha wilderness is known for its quad-biking, 4x4 and hiking trails. The entrance fee of R25 gives travellers access to the hot springs, pools and hiking trails. Visit www.riemvasmaak.co.za/riemvasmaak-hot-springs

Dassie Interpretive Trail at Augrabies Falls National Park

The three-hour, 7km Dassie Interpretive Trail at Augrabies Falls National Park boasts splendid views and animal sightings. The national park is also home to Augrabies Falls. Entry costs to the park is R59 per person. The trail is free. See www.sanparks.org

GAUTENG

Honeydew Mazes

Honeydew Mazes consists of the Elemental Maze, which is constructed from indigenous reed fencing and offers five secret gardens. The maze takes an hour-and-a-half to solve.

The attraction is only open on weekends. Entry costs R150 for adults and R100 for children. See www.honeydewmazes.co.za

Montecasino Bird Gardens

Dubbed Joburg’s best-kept secret, Montecasino Bird Gardens is open from Wednesdays to Sundays. Guests can stroll through the garden walkways. There is a variety of birds, reptiles and animals to see. Entry costs R90 for adults and R62 for children and pensioners. See www.montecasino.co.za

LIMPOPO

Jessica the Hippo

Hoedspruit, Limpopo, is home to the famous hippo which interacts with humans. Jessica, raised by her owners Tonie and Shirley Joubert like their own child, is friendly and loves taking selfies with guests. Entry costs R100 for adults and R50 for children under 12. Call 015 817 1865.

Thaba Kwena Crocodile Farm

Nestled between Bela Bela and Modimolle in the Waterberg, Thaba Kwena is one of the largest crocodile farms in the country. Entry costs R50 for adults and R20 for children and pensioners. See www.thabakwena.co.za

FREE STATE

Clarens Brewery

Savour the views and enjoy a drink at Clarens Brewery. Its beers, including Clarens Blonde, are among travellers’ favourite options. Wine and gin are available. Tastings start from R30. Visit www.clarensbrewery.co.za/

Clarens Xtreme

Clarens Xtreme offers fun-filled experiences including putt putt (R20), archery (R140), paintball and target shooting (R100), and the wall climb (R30). See www.clarensxtreme.co.za

MPUMALANGA

Lone Creek Falls

Lone Creek Falls offers fantastic photo opportunities. Located in Sabie, guests can enjoy a short walk to the falls to savour the views. Entry costs R30. See www.mpumalanga.com

Sudwala Caves

A tour guide shares insight into the history of the caves. Tours are around an hour long. Entry costs R100 for adults and R60 for children. Call 083 446 0228. There is also a dinosaur park: R70 for adults and R40 for children. See www.sudwalacaves.com/

NORTH WEST

Kgaswane Mountain Reserve

The North West gem showcases viewpoints and picnic sites. There are also antelope, caracal, leopard and over 320 species of birds. The reserve offers four hiking trails. Entry costs R40 for adults, R20 for children and R20 for a car. Call 014 533 2050.

The Maze of the Lost City, Sun City

Explore the largest permanent maze in the southern hemisphere at the Maze of the Lost City in Sun City. It can be accessed via the 100-metre suspension bridge from the entertainment centre. Entry costs R140 for adults, R70 for children under 12 and R100 for pensioners. See www.suninternational.com/sun-city/activities/ maze/