Top 5 things to do in South Africa in March

Here are Wanderlust's top five unmissable things to do in South Africa in March

1. Jazz it up 

Cape Town International Jazz Festival, Cape Town, Western Cape

The annual International Jazz Festival captures the energy and spirit of South Africa’s most iconic city. Recent top names on the bill include George Benson, Toots Thielemans and Jonathan Butler.

2. Pick up a masterpiece 

Gazankulu, Limpopo

From batik textiles to wood carvings with semi-precious inlays, the craftsmen of the Limpopo region are famed for their intricate creations – and, if you’re lucky, they might even teach you a few a tricks of the trade too.

3. Take the long route

Outeniqua Trail, Western Cape

The Outeniqua Trail is a mammoth seven days of world-class hiking through indigenous forest and pine plantations. The route can be broken down into smaller chunks for easier treks.

4. Find your inner botanist

Heuningberg Nature Reserve, Western Cape

This eight sq km nature reserve is home to more than 300 plant species. Look out for the trident pincushion and the red Bredasdorp lily, which flower March/April.

5. Hang out with chimps 

Chimpanzee Eden, Mpumalanga

Jane Goodall sponsors this rehabilitation centre for rescued chimpanzees, helping them re-learn how to climb trees and forage for food. www.chimpeden.com