The Easter long weekend is just around the corner, and if you’re anything like most South Africans, you’re itching to get out and explore. Whether you’re staying close to home or venturing across the country, public holidays are the perfect time to soak up the sights, support local businesses, and make some fresh memories.
But let’s be honest, getting around during peak holiday season can come with its fair share of stress. Parking problems, heavy traffic, and safety concerns can all quickly turn a relaxing trip into a logistical nightmare. That’s where Uber steps in.
Planning a brunch with friends, a family day out, or a solo cultural adventure? Uber helps you get from A to B safely, conveniently, and without the drama of finding parking. From beachfront bliss to hidden foodie finds, here are 10 must-see local spots to add to your Easter itinerary — plus how Uber can help you enjoy them safely, and without the holiday hassle.
JOHANNESBURG
Constitution Hill
Once a prison that housed the country’s political stalwarts. Constitution Hill now stands as a beacon of democracy. But did you know that beneath its solemn facade lies a vibrant art scene? Local artists often use the space to showcase thought-provoking installations. It’s a place where history and contemporary culture collide.
Vilakazi Street, Soweto
The only street in the world to have housed two Nobel Peace Prize winners; Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. But beyond its historical significance, Vilikazi Street is a culinary hotspot. From sizzling shisanyama to sweet koeksisters, your taste buds are in for a treat. And if you’re lucky, you might catch a spontaneous street performance that’ll have you dancing in no time.
Cradle of Humankind
Just 50KM from Johannesburg, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is where our ancestors decided to leave their bones behind, literally. Explore the Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng Visitor Centre to uncover fossils dating back millions of years. It’s a place where science meets storytelling, and you might just find yourself pondering your own evolutionary journey.
Ground Café
Nestled in Muldersdrift’s rolling hills, Ground Café offers a farm-to-table experience that’s both rustic and refined. With a menu featuring wood-fired pizzas and fresh salads, it’s the perfect pit stop after exploring the Cradle. Take your appetite, your family, and even your furry friends, everyone’s welcome there.
DURBAN
Phansi Museum
Tucked away in Glenwood, the Phansi Museum houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Southern African artifacts. From beadwork and pottery to traditional attire and masks, it’s a cultural trove. And the best part? The museum is located in a charming old house, giving your visit a cozy, intimate feel.
KZNSA Gallery
Venture into the heart of Glenwood to the legendary KZNSA gallery where Durban’s artsy kids hang out, and the cake is dangerously good.
Beachwood Mangroves Nature Reserve
Here’s a gem most tourists overlook, a quiet escape with boardwalks through ancient mangrove forests and rare crab species. Yes, crabs. And no, not the kind you find on Florida Road.
Mzinyathi Falls and the Rastafarian Caves
Just a short drive from the city, Mzinyathi Falls offers a serene escape with its cascading waters and lush surroundings. But venture a bit further, and you’ll discover the Rastafarian Caves, a spiritual haven where the local Rastafarian community gathers. It’s a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural richness that’s sure to leave an impression.
CAPE TOWN
Table Mountain Lower Cableway Station
Ascending Table Mountain is a must, but here’s a cheeky tidbit: despite its iconic status, a surprising number of locals have never made the trip up. Don’t be that person. Take the cable car, enjoy the rotating views, and once at the top, play a game of “spot the landmark” with the panoramic views.
Tranquility Cracks
Looking for a “locals only” vibe? Skip the crows and hike up to the secret Tranquility Cracks on the Twelve Apostles, sandstone caverns with filtered light and unbelievable ocean views. It’s like Narnia, but make it Cape Town.
The Labia Theatre
South Africa’s oldest independent cinema, with its vintage charm, eclectic film selections, and a bar that lets you take your wine into the screening, it’s a movie-going experience like no other. Hollywood blockbusters? Not here. Think indie gems and cult classics.
Safety features to keep you confident on the road
As you explore these incredible local gems, Uber offers safety features before trip, during trip and after trip that allow you to focus on enjoying the moment. With reliable transport and built-in peace of mind, it’s easier to make the most of your Easter weekend while staying relaxed and stress-free.
Whether you’re bar-hopping in Maboneng, or road-tripping to the Golden Mile beachfront, Uber’s built-in safety features help you travel with peace of mind:
-
Share your trip: Heading to Vilakazi Street or KZNSA Gallery solo? Share your real-time ride details with friends or family for added peace of mind.
-
Verify your ride: Out on a busy night on Florida Road? Use the PIN verification feature to ensure you’re getting into the right car.
-
GPS tracking: Whether you’re exploring unfamiliar places like Bo-Kaap or Constitution Hill, every trip is GPS-tracked so you can follow along and stay aware.
-
RideCheck:Taking a longer trip out of the city? Uber uses GPS and sensors to detect unusual stops and checks in to make sure everything’s okay.
-
Emergency Assistance: With the tap of a button, you can connect to private emergency services, especially useful when travelling with kids or at quieter times.
-
Safety Check-Up: Planning a hike or early morning ride to Table Mountain or Kirstenbosch? Do a quick safety check in-app to ensure all features are active.
-
24/7 Support: Whether you’re navigating Maboneng’s creative chaos or Durban’s festive beachfront, Uber’s in-app customer support is always just a message away.