South Africans will braai anywhere, that’s a fact. But nothing makes a braaimaster happier than lighting up a fire in the great outdoors. 

Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly venue that’s not too far from home or you’re feeling more adventurous, we’ve rounded up eight of our favourite (mostly lesser-known) outdoor braai spots around the country, from Langebaan to Limpopo. 

We’ve also recommended a few Megamaster essentials and accessories to take along with you — no-one wants to arrive in the middle of nowhere and realise they’ve forgotten to bring the braai.

Here’s where to go when you want to #braaiwithoutboundaries...

 

WESTERN CAPE

Kraalbaai, West Coast National Park
Most people know the West Coast National Park for its spectacular spring flower season. But hidden within the park is a white-sand beach that’ll make you feel like you’ve landed in the Caribbean. Kraalbaai beach is found 90 minutes from Cape Town on the Postberg entrance side of Langebaan lagoon. It features picnic and braai facilities, houseboats for rent, and a host of wildlife including zebra and wildebeest. Time your visit right as this part of the park is only open from August to October.

Buffalo Bay, Goukamma Nature Reserve
This small town on the Garden Route is only 20 minutes from Knysna. It’s blessed with long stretches of beach frequented by swimmers, surfers, fishermen and, of course, braaiers. You’ll find the outdoor braai area just next to a caravan park — perfect for overnighters. A braai with an ocean view? We couldn’t ask for more. 

MADE BETTER WITH MEGAMASTER:
Make your outdoor braaing better with a Megamaster Scout 3x3m Gazebo. Since we’re not actually in the Caribbean with those lovely shady palm trees, you’re going to need to take the shade with you for a long day of beachside braaing.

GAUTENG

Rietvlei Zoo Farm
Situated in the south of Johannesburg, Rietvlei Zoo Farm is a city escape that deserves a mention for its scenic setting, wildlife and wide range of activities. Enjoy hiking, golf, fishing or simply relaxing around the braai in the picnic park, where kids can feed the farmyard animals, enjoy pony rides, ride on paddle boats and mini scooters, and much more. They’ll never get bored! 

Brookwood Trout Farm, Cradle of Humankind
Fish for your own lunch. Just an hour’s drive from either Johannesburg or Pretoria, Brookwood Trout Farm gives you an idyllic riverside braaing experience. The pretty, grassy picnic site looks over a 700-metre stretch of the Blaaubank Spruit River — bring your swimsuit and take a dip when the temperature soars.

MADE BETTER WITH MEGAMASTER:
Make your outdoor braaing better with a Megamaster Origin Series 2 Burner Table Top Gas Braai. Foldable legs and a lockable lid makes this the perfect portable small braai to take with on a day trip or holiday.

 

KWAZULU-NATAL

Karkloof Falls, Karkloof Nature Reserve
Looking for a change in backdrop? How about a waterfall plunging from 105 metres high, surrounded by a forest of yellowwood and stinkwood trees? Travel just over 90 minutes from Durban, or an hour from Pietermaritzburg, and set up your braai at the foot of Karkloof Falls. You might even spot Africa’s largest eagle, the martial.

MADE BETTER WITH MEGAMASTER:
Make your outdoor braaing better with a Megamaster Buccaneer Camping Chair. With a view like this, you’ll want a front-row seat.

EASTERN CAPE

Van Stadens Wildflower Reserve
A floral wonderland awaits 40 kilometres from Port Elizabeth. This reserve protects a wealth of indigenous flora including fynbos, succulents and more. Take advantage of the hiking and mountain bike trails as well as picnic spots. Not that you’ll need to call ahead to let them know you’re planning to braai.

MADE BETTER WITH MEGAMASTER:
Make your outdoor braaing better with a Megamaster 51L Stainless Steel Cooler Box. Cold refreshments will be especially appreciated after a morning spent trekking through fynbos.

 

FREE STATE

Gariep A Forever Resort, Gariep Dam Nature Reserve
If you’re travelling between Johannesburg and Cape Town, here’s the overnight braai stop of your dreams. Some say Gariep is the most beautiful dam in South Africa. We’re talking more than 36,000 hectares (making it the biggest dam in the country, which is why it’s also sometimes referred to as a lake) and a nature reserve boasting the largest population of springbok of any reserve in South Africa. Gariep A Forever Resort offers chalets but we recommend camping to maximise your outdoor experience.

MADE BETTER WITH MEGAMASTER:
Make your outdoor braaing better with a Megamaster Venture Camping Chair. Once you’ve planted yourself in front of the lake, you’re not going to want to move. 

 

LIMPOPO

Mafefe 4x4 Camp, Lekgalameetse Provincial Park
Only accessible by 4x4, this is one for the mega-adventurers. Mafefe Camp is set in the scenic northern Drakensberg mountain range, two-and-a-half hours from Polokwane. Look forward to rugged trails, ancient caves and endless starry skies. You can even pay a visit to a local sangoma.

MADE BETTER WITH MEGAMASTER:
Make your outdoor braaing better with a Megamaster Active Portable Gas Braai. With no electricity at Mafefe, this portable small braai will be your best getaway friend. Designed to be ready-to-go all the time, it’s suitable for a life onboard the caravan, camper or on any other road-tripping adventure.

Please note: Due to ongoing Covid-19 restrictions it’s a good idea to check each venue’s website and call ahead before arranging a picnic.