EMBRACE THE COLD SEASON

How to make the most of winter this year.

This year, venture out to the snow and experience the thrill of winter activities in Southern Africa. Afriski, a legitimate ski resort nestled 3050m above sea level in the Maluti Mountains of Lesotho, offers exceptional skiing and snowboarding experiences. With coaching and equipment hire available for all ages, from 4-yearold children to adults, you can learn to ski.

Visit www.afriski.net for more details

For an alternative skiing experience, Tiffindell Ski Resort, the only other ski resort in Southern Africa, sits at an altitude of 2720m on the slope of Ben McDhui, the highest peak in the Cape Province. With inclusive packages ranging from 3 to 7 nights, you can enjoy a remarkable winter getaway.

Explore more at www.tiffindell.co.za

If diving is more your style, don’t miss the opportunity to swim with the so-called ‘greatest shoal on earth.’ In June and July, millions of sardines gather along the South African coast, creating magnificent shoals visible even from satellite imagery. Dive among these spectacular formations, stretching up to 15km in length, 3.5km wide, and nearly 40m deep. Witness the frenzied feeding frenzy that attracts dolphins, seals, and sharks. You don’t need to be a diver to experience this spectacle as the surface action is just as riveting.

Get in touch with expert guide Andy Coetzee to explore inclusive Ocean Safari packages (for divers and non-divers) at experience@sowetostyle.co.za

If you’re seeking a winter pilgrimage of a different kind, head up the Cape West Coast to Eland’s Bay. This location boasts the finest left-hand point break south of the Orange River. E-Bay truly comes alive when a big west swell is groomed by the Cape Doctor (south-easterly wind).

Discover more at www.elandsbaai.org

For surf enthusiasts, consider embarking on a “strike mission” to Skeleton Bay in Namibia. This wave has gained worldwide recognition thanks to a flood of GoPro footage. However, only experienced surfers should attempt it. SAA offers flights from Cape Town to Walvis Bay.

Plan your adventure at www.namibiatourism.com.na

If snowboarding or skiing isn’t your cup of tea but you still want to experience the snow, here are three easily accessible places to explore:

Matroosberg:

Located roughly two-and-a-half hours from Cape Town, Matroosberg offers some of the most accessible heavy snowfall in South Africa. The second-highest peak in the Western Cape, Matroosberg Peak, is home to The Ski Club of South Africa. The slopes are accessible by 4x4 vehicles, and the Matroosberg Private Nature Reserve welcomes day visitors. Obtain a day pass at www.matroosberg.com

Cederberg:

Although snowfalls in the Cederberg region are lighter and less frequent than in the Matroosberg/Ceres area, the higher peaks still experience proper snowfalls most years.

Website: www.cederberg.com