Snow place like home: Where to catch SA's best winter wonderland views this week

That icy, glacial bite in the air clearly signals that winter has arrived.

However, if the latest predictions from the South African Weather Service are correct, temperatures are set to plummet even more from Wednesday, June 3, with snow on the horizon.

Of course, the possibility of snow sparks a youthful sense of wonder in everyone, even as they get ready to stay indoors wrapped in winter layers.

Whether it is the simple joy of watching the flakes fall or the excitement of playing in it (when possible), snow brings out a different kind of enthusiasm in everyone.

With a severe Level 8 weather warning issued for parts of the Western Cape, please exercise caution when going about your business. 

Meanwhile, we’ve mapped out a few places where you can see the snow in Mzansi. As always, please drive with caution in extreme weather conditions.

Western Cape

• Matroosberg Nature Reserve: Commonly referred to as the "snow capital", it is situated approximately 35km from Ceres. Although it is a two-hour journey, the opportunity for bum-boarding and snowball fights makes the trip worthwhile. For those planning a visit, using a high-clearance or 4x4 vehicle is recommended.
• Worcester: If you are seeking a destination that offers breathtaking vistas of distant peaks covered in snow, look no further than this local wine-producing town.
• Tulbagh: Pretty similar to the offerings you would find in Worcester, but it is a shorter drive. Just remember to dress warmly and pack a lovely picnic basket for your snow spotting outing. 

Northern Cape

• Sutherland: If you are chasing frosty flakes, this is the place to be. Situated in the Central Karoo, roughly a four-hour journey from Cape Town, it is well worth the drive for a cosy winter getaway. The region typically experiences significant snowfall during the winter months, particularly throughout July and August. The combination of renowned Karoo hospitality and the sight of a snow-blanketed landscape ensures a truly enchanting experience.

Eastern Cape Highlands

• Barkly East, Rhodes and Hogsback: Renowned for their substantial snowfall, these areas are ideal for winter enthusiasts. If you are planning a trip, staying at the Tiffindell Ski &  Alpine Resort on Ben McDhui peak is highly recommended; it features functional ski slopes, provided the weather conditions are favourable.

The Midlands Meander

• Nottingham Road and Howick: Visiting these locations has become a yearly tradition for Durban residents eager for a snow-filled adventure. A picturesque journey along the N3 leads to opportunities for playing in the snow and capturing memorable photos for social media. 

Drakensberg 

• Sani Pass: Situated along the border of KwaZulu-Natal and Lesotho, Sani Pass in the Southern Drakensberg is celebrated as one of South Africa's premier destinations for reliable and significant snowfall. To reach this snowy retreat, a 4x4 vehicle is the recommended mode of transport. Once at the summit, the Sani Mountain Lodge provides a cosy sanctuary where visitors can escape the winter chill.
• Highmoor Nature Reserve: Situated within the central Drakensberg, this KwaZulu-Natal wildlife sanctuary is a prime spot for snow, often getting more than its neighbouring areas. The sweeping, panoramic vistas there are truly spectacular.
• Giant’s Castle and Cathedral Peak: Located in the central Drakensberg, they are relatively easy to reach and provide magnificent vistas of mountains covered in snow.

Free State

• Golden Gate Highlands National Park: Situated in the Maluti Mountain foothills near Clarens, this is a breathtaking winter destination. Its iconic sandstone cliffs serve as a magnificent backdrop for those in search of snow. For visitors wanting to experience this winter wonderland, accommodation can be reserved through the SANParks website.
• Clarens: This picturesque and creative town, located a mere three hours from Johannesburg, often sees significant snow. Clarens is celebrated for its art galleries, craft breweries and inviting fireplaces.

Lesotho

• Fouriesburg and Zastron: Located directly on the Lesotho border, these high-altitude towns are ideal for quiet snow-watching, as their elevation helps trap incoming cold fronts.
• Afriski Mountain Resort: Cross the border into the Maluti Mountains to find the ski resort nearest to South Africa. It is a prime destination for guaranteed snow where you can enjoy activities like tubing, snowboarding and skiing.