Heritage Month is more than a date on the calendar. It is a celebration of the people, flavours, stories and traditions that make South Africa unlike anywhere else in the world.

It is the smell of a braai drifting through the air, the sound of families catching up around a shared table and the joy of rediscovering the places that have shaped our country.

It is also an invitation to travel with greater curiosity, to taste something local, learn something new and experience the character of each destination.

This September, turn your getaway into a celebration of South Africa. From the maritime history of Mossel Bay and Durban’s vibrant blend of cultures to the historic neighbourhoods and distinctive flavours of Cape Town, there is so much to experience close to home.

Here are four First Group stays that make an ideal base for your Heritage Month journey.

PERNA PERNA MOSSEL BAY:
COASTAL HISTORY, LOCAL FLAVOUR AND A BRAAI

Family-friendly activities and attractions near Perna Perna Mossel Bay

Mossel Bay is known for its beaches and easy-going coastal atmosphere, but there is much more to discover beyond the shoreline.

Spend time at the Bartolomeu Dias Museum Complex, explore the town’s maritime story or browse local markets, shops and restaurants. The Garden Route’s diverse heritage is reflected in its people, food and longstanding connection to the ocean, giving families plenty to experience together.

Perna Perna Mossel Bay offers comfortable self-catering apartments close to the town centre, with a heated swimming pool, braai facilities and family-friendly amenities. After a day of exploring, return to the resort, light the fire and enjoy one of South Africa’s favourite traditions: good food shared around the braai.

If you are travelling over the Heritage Day period, the kykNET Buite Ekspo Suid-Kaap takes place at ATKV Hartenbos from 25 to 27 September 2026, adding even more outdoor adventure and local entertainment to your getaway.

THE PALACE ALL-SUITE: EXPERIENCE DURBAN’S ENERGY AND FLAVOUR

Runners enjoying an event along the Durban beachfront

Durban’s heritage lives in its colourful neighbourhoods, warm people and unmistakable food culture. It is a city shaped by African, Indian and colonial influences, where every market, landmark and plate has a story to tell.

Make time to explore the city’s museums and cultural attractions, browse the stalls at a local market or follow the aroma of spices to a proper Durban curry. For a deeper look at the region’s history, consider visiting sites along the Inanda Heritage Route, which connects important moments in South Africa’s past.

Situated on Durban’s North Beach, The Palace All-Suite offers self-catering apartments and hotel accommodation on the Golden Mile. Guests can enjoy a swimming pool, on-site spa, restaurants and daily entertainment, with the beachfront and many city attractions within easy reach.

The Pick n Pay Durban Sunrise Run takes place on the Durban beachfront on 26 September 2026. Whether you are running, supporting from the sidelines or simply enjoying the atmosphere, it is a lively addition to a Heritage Month stay in the city.

MOUNT SIERRA: DISCOVER THE STORIES OF THE MOTHER CITY

Colourful homes in the Bo-Kaap in Cape Town

Cape Town’s heritage is layered into its streets, architecture, communities and cuisine. From the Company’s Garden and the Castle of Good Hope to District Six and the Bo-Kaap, the city offers countless opportunities to learn about the people and events that shaped it.

Wander through the Bo-Kaap with a local guide, visit a museum or join a Cape Malay cooking experience where you can learn to fold samoosas, make rotis and blend spices for a fragrant curry. Heritage is not only something to see; it can be tasted, heard and shared.

Mount Sierra is situated in Gardens beneath Table Mountain and offers spacious self-catering apartments in a central location. The resort features an indoor heated pool, La Vita Wellness Spa, Café Sierra and braai facilities, while many of Cape Town’s historic and cultural attractions are only a short drive away.

It is the ideal base for travellers who want to spend the day exploring the city’s stories before returning to a comfortable apartment to relax.

RIVIERA SUITES: LOCAL TASTES AND SEASIDE LIVING IN SEA POINT

Riviera Suites and the Sea Point coastline in Cape Town

Heritage Month does not have to mean rushing from one landmark to the next. Sometimes, the best way to connect with a destination is to slow down and experience it like a local.

From Riviera Suites, stroll along the Sea Point Promenade, browse neighbourhood stores and discover the area’s diverse food scene. Try a South African favourite, support a local eatery or visit a nearby market where flavours and cultures come together. With the city centre, Bo-Kaap and other cultural attractions within easy reach, you can pair relaxed seaside moments with meaningful exploration.

Situated on Cape Town’s Millionaire’s Mile, Riviera Suites offers self-catering apartments, an indoor swimming pool, an on-site coffee shop and spa. It is a convenient base for couples, friends and families who want to enjoy Cape Town at their own pace.

Start the morning beside the ocean, spend the afternoon discovering the city and end the day around a table filled with something delicious. That sounds like Heritage Month done right.

CELEBRATE SOUTH AFRICA, ONE GETAWAY AT A TIME

South Africa’s greatest richness lies in its people, cultures and extraordinary places. Heritage Month is the perfect opportunity to explore more of the country we call home and to celebrate the traditions that connect us.

Whether your ideal escape includes a beachfront walk, a historic neighbourhood, a plate of local food or a relaxed braai with the family, First Group gives you a comfortable place to experience it all.

South African destinations and experiences