South Africa and New Zealand sit on opposite sides of the planet, but they share a rare quality: wildly diverse landscapes packed into compact areas. For South Africans craving the dramatic peaks, emerald valleys, and crisp air of New Zealand – without the long-haul flight – these local escapes come remarkably close.
1. Drakensberg Mountains, KwaZulu-Natal and Free State
New Zealand’s Southern Alps are famous for their jagged ridgelines and alpine trails. South Africa’s Drakensberg range offers similar drama. Towering basalt cliffs, misty peaks, and winding hikes through indigenous forest make this a high-altitude escape with serious Kiwi vibes. Cathedral Peak and the Amphitheatre in Royal Natal National Park echo the cinematic beauty of Fiordland.
Take a look here: #drakensbergmountains
2. Magoebaskloof, Limpopo
This lush, misty region could easily be mistaken for New Zealand’s North Island. Rolling hills draped in afro-montane forest, hidden waterfalls, and cool, wet weather make Magoebaskloof feel worlds away from the dry bushveld most associate with South Africa. It has a similar charm to Rotorua or the Coromandel Peninsula – just swap geothermal springs for fern-covered ravines.
Take a look here: #magoebaskloof
3. Hogsback, Eastern Cape
Perched high in the Amathole Mountains, Hogsback is a forested hideaway full of Tolkien-esque wonder. With its mossy paths, waterfalls, and dense woodland, it’s reminiscent of New Zealand’s Fiordland forests or the mystical trails of the South Island. Local legend says it inspired Tolkien’s Middle-earth, and walking its paths, you won’t doubt it.
Take a look here: #hogsbacksouthafrica
4. Cederberg Wilderness Area, Western Cape
For something that mirrors the rugged, open spaces of New Zealand’s South Island high country, the Cederberg hits the mark. Stark rock formations, clear mountain pools, and star-strewn skies evoke the feeling of tramping through Otago or Canterbury. There’s a raw, remote beauty here that satisfies the urge to roam wild.
Take a look here: #cederbergwildernessarea
Have you been to any of these stunning New Zealand-like towns in South Africa?
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.
