With the latest COVID-19 variant, Omicron and slew of travel bans South Africa has so unjustly been slapped with – I have put together a resource guide that helps locals navigate the festive season and support local businesses. In light of this, this post highlights safe Western Cape activities for the festive season 2021.
These places and experiences focus heavily on staying safe(r) outdoors, where social distancing is easiest.
Most of these are activities I have cautiously done throughout 2021 or that I know from past experiences are as safe as we can be in these times.
National Lockdown Levels and Restrictions May Affect These Activities
None of us can say what restrictions or lockdown level we will be under for this festive season, especially as a fourth wave looms.
However, I remain hopeful that government can protect our citizens without hurting our fragile economy and livelihoods any further.
Whether we go to a stricter lockdown level or remain on Level 1 with more stringent restrictions set in place, it is the responsibility of every citizen to take the necessary measures to protect themselves and others.
Staying Safe This Festive Season in the Western Cape
Here are some safer activities, experiences and outings to enjoy leading up to and during the festive season 2021.
Hit the Open Road (If Possible)
1) Best Western Cape Road Trips to Enjoy
2) Discover Quirky Roadside Attractions Across the Western Cape
Immerse Yourself in a Garden
Note: Some gardens may be closed on public holidays like Christmas (December 25) or New Year’s Day (January 1).
Always check ahead and where needed, book, before visiting.
1) Explore Old Nectar Gardens, Stellenbosch
2) Book to Visit Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden, Stellenbosch
3) Discover Various Gardens in or near the Cape Winelands
4) Visit Babylonstoren’s Garden, Franschhoek
Visit a Famous Flower Farm This Summer
1) Enjoy Adene’s Farm Flowers: Open Days
Note: Farm open days usually run annually from mid-December to the first week of April.
Open days are held over weekends (Saturdays and Sundays) only.
Please check Adene’s Farm Flowers’ social feeds or contact them directly for more precise 2021/2022 open day dates.
Visit a Gorgeous Western Cape Small Town: Tulbagh
1) See the Best Local Attractions in Tulbagh
Take a Hike – or Hit the Beach This Festive Season
1) Best Western Cape Hikes to Try
2) Find My Favourite Beaches near Cape Town
3) Explore Agulhas National Park: The Southernmost Tip of Africa
Order from Local Wine Farms and Support Their Online Shops
If you want to support local wine farms but are scared to risk visiting at this current time – there are still many ways to support them.
Most of our local wine farms have online wine shops. So order some festive wine or bubbles or spoil loved ones with a wine hamper this festive season.
A number of local estates also have excellent online farm shops. These offer everything from farm fresh produce to festive gifts, eats and treats. Estates with excellent online shops include the likes of Spier, Boschendal and Babylonstoren to name only a few.
Browse your favourite wine farm’s website – or contact them directly to enquire about their online offerings.
If you are comfortable enough to do so, book a winetasting, picnic or lunch at a local estate.
Or check into their accommodation for a relaxing getaway.
Safety Measures You Can Take This Festive Season
If you feel unwell or suspect you have been infected, stay home and isolate to avoid infecting or endangering others.
Remember to always wear a mask in public; sanitise your hands (and frequently touched surfaces); and always social distance.
And please, if you can – get vaccinated and help us all stay a bit safer this festive season.
COVID-19 Disclaimer:
Please note: All activities and experiences are dependent on lockdown levels, travel restrictions and South African COVID guidelines.
As a result, I assume no responsibility for limited offerings, closed venues or general unavailibility of any services, products or offerings.
For the latest lockdown levels and restrictions, please always check provincial or national sites.
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