Looking for the top places to visit in the Free State, South Africa? From nature reserves to historical sites, read about the best Free State tourist attractions! Take a journey through the Free State and enjoy all the wonderful sights it has to offer with this curated list of 10 places to visit in the Free State.
Free State tourist attractions
1. Golden Gate Highlands National Park
One of the most popular places to visit in the Free State, Golden Gate Highlands National Park must be at the top of your places to visit in the Free State. The area is known for its beautiful, golden-brown, and yellow sandstone rock formations, unique wildlife, and spectacular landscapes. There is also an abundance of activities to participate in, from hiking, bird watching, and horse-riding trails to biking and game viewing.
The Golden Gate National Park entrance fee for SA Citizens and Residents (with ID) is as follows: R63 per adult, per day and R31 per child, per day.
Golden Gate National Park entrance fee for SADC nationals with passports is as follows: R126 per adult, per day and R63 per child, per day.
The Golden Gate National Park entrance fee for international visitors is as follows: R252 per adult, per day and R126 per child, per day.
Phone: 058 255 1000
2. Gariepdam
Home to the second-largest dam in South Africa, Gariepdam is a must-visit for its breathtakingly beautiful landscapes. It provides visitors with an array of fantastic activities including fishing, swimming, water sports, and game viewing. The reservoir also offers wonderful bird-viewing opportunities.
Pack a picnic and take in the majestic beauty of Gariepdam, one of the largest dams in Africa. Spend an exhilarating day exploring the enormity of this vast open space with a boat ride, taking in its natural beauty. Enjoy sweeping views of vast mountain ranges, as well as fields filled with colorful flower species that bloom in summer bathing the area in beautiful hues. The Gariep dam wall This dam wall is a must-see stopover when traveling through.
3. Clarens Brewery
Located in the quaint tourist town of Clarens, the Clarens Brewery is a must-visit. An ever-growing beverage company known for its variety of craft beer, cider, and mead offerings, Clarens Brewery also serves non-alcoholic drinks, and their pizzas and burgers are delicious. It’s the perfect place to unwind after an exciting day exploring South Africa’s Free State Province. So come down and enjoy its warm hospitality while sipping on some of the finest beers in South Africa!
Address: Shop 1, Rosemary Centre, 326 Market Straat Oos St, Clarens, 9707
Phone: 058 008 5089
Website: https://clarensbrewery.co.za/
4. Oliewenhuis Art Museum
The Oliewenhuis Art Museum is a must-visit in the Free State. Located on the outskirts of Bloemfontein, South Africa’s judicial capital, it houses an impressive collection of South African art and artifacts. You can also visit their gardens, take a guided tour through the historical buildings, and wander around the museum full of sculptures. Make sure you explore the Oliewenhuis Art Museum when you visit the Free State!
Address: 16 Harry Smith St, Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, 9301
Website: https://nasmus.co.za/oliewenhuis-introduction/
5. Free State National Botanical Garden
The Free State National Botanical Garden is one of South Africa’s greatest natural gems. Located in Bloemfontein, it houses more than 400 plant species of plants. With displays that highlight an array of flora, including grassland, forest, aloe veld, and wetland plant species. Enjoy a range of activities including walking trails, bird watching, and educational talks about local fauna and flora.
Address: Rayton Rd, Dan Pienaar, Bloemfontein, 9310
Phone: 051 436 3530
Free State Botanical Gardens website: http://www.sanbi.org/gardens/free-state/
6. Lionsrock Big Cat Sanctuary
7. Skydive Parys
