Things to do & places to visit in Free State, South Africa

Free State #10 destination in South Africa 2023. The average rating score is 4.35 based on 4.465 traveler reviews, of 154 attractions. Timezone: Africa/Johannesburg, current date and time: Sunday, May 05, 2024, 13:25.

Free State Weather Statistics view more »

General weather summary in May

70°F - 42°F

Temperature Highs - Lows

Moderately chilly with a gentle breeze

Feels like

Chance of rain

11.0 millimeters

Amount

10.1 mph

Wind speed

50%

Humidity

10.7

Daylight length

6:46 AM

Sunrise

5:29 PM

Sunset

74%

Cloud cover

Sweater

What to wear

Top things to do (33)

Top destinations in Free State 68

See more 56 destinations »

Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 Elude Escape Rooms (318 reviews)
- Great Place
Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Escape Games

Elude Escape Rooms is physical adventure games in which players are immersed in escape scenarios(themed rooms) and have to use elements of the room to solve a series of puzzles and riddles to escape within 60 minutes. IMPORTANT: Due to the nature of the business you need to reserve/book you spot via our website in advance. See more..
5.0 Maluti Mountain Adventures (164 reviews)
- Amazing days outing
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours • Day Trips

Had an amazing time with Shane. Awesome high quality large quad bikes, brilliant value for money, 3 hours of exploring the beautiful mountainous landscape of Clarens, that included beautiful views and a visit to a bush painting cave. All in all a 10/10 experience would highly recommend See more..
5.0 Skydive Parys (124 reviews)
- First Skydive
Sunday: 7:00 AM - 6:00 PM Adrenaline & Extreme Tours • Skydiving

I made my first tandem skydive at age 68 after being incited by my son who started skydiving 6 months ago. The atmosphere at the club was friendly and very welcoming. The instructors were very professional and experienced and the video material is of good quality. It was a worth while experience that I will remember with fondness. See more..
5.0 Tiger Canyon Private Game Reserve (66 reviews)
- A truly special experience
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

A seductively enchanting, distinctly different African safari experience. Located remotely in the Free State on the banks of a huge unheard-of dam on the Orange River, lies an example of a revolutionary endangered species conservation project. Tiger Canyon is a partnership between humans, an ecosystem and endangered species set on the banks of the little known Vanderkloof Dam. The tigers at Tiger Canyon have found a home far from their normal Asian habitat where they are one of the top ten most endangered animal species in the world, and the most endangered of all the Big Cats. Tiger Canyon is no longer an experiment to see if tigers can adapt to African conditions, because the now 3rd and 4th generation wild born, wild raised tigers have over the last 20 years become self-sustaining. With all South Africa’s Big Cat knowledge and skills, why should we not help save the tiger on agriculturally unproductive land that once teamed with wildlife like the Serengeti in Tanzania? See more..
5.0 Glen Garriff Conservation (63 reviews)
- Food for the soul
Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

If you're looking for a place to rest your soul and connect with some of Africa's most majestic big cats, then GG Conservation is the right place for you. Lovely accommodation with lions literally on your doorstep, coupled with the most beautiful surroundings makes GG Conservation an ideal getaway. Suzanne is an excellent host, who shares her knowledge and experience of these beautiful animals with enthusiasm and her passion for the protection and conservation of lions is inspirational. If you're feeling brave and adventurous, then the lion cage experience is a must- instead of the lions being in a cage, you're in the cage! A truely mind blowing and amazing experience. You will leave not want to leave GG Conservation, but when you do, you will feel relaxed and your soul rejuvenated. See more..
5.0 Amphitheatre (33 reviews)
- Sentinel peak is a must for hikers!
Geologic Formations

The sentinel peak hike takes you from the car park close to Witsieshoek to the top of the amphitheatre, where you can see the Tugela falls and breathtaking views. The hiking trail has been laid out with cement blocks which makes it more accessible and easier to hike. There are 2 chain ladders that you have to conquer to get to the top. An alternative is a gulley which takes about 45 minutes to climb. Please note the hiking fees is R90 per person. You can pay in cash at the car park, or by card at the Witsieshoek Reception. See more..
5.0 Kiki’s Vintage Photo Studio (18 reviews)
- Highlight for cake and tea
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 2:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops

Fabulous photo studio. Everlasting memories. Surprise engagements. Cross dress fun photos. Graphic designing. Vintage dress up. Corporate events. Workshop venue. Family photos. Beautiful. Other. Couples. Boudoir. Babies. Fun. Bookings essential. We are a destination. See more..
5.0 Gariep Dam Wall (16 reviews)
- Beautiful view
Points of Interest & Landmarks

Parking areas on both sides of the wall. You can walk or drive over the wall. Take great pictures of the beautiful views of the dam, the dam wall and the rocky sites next to the road. See more..
5.0 Jazz On The Lawn (14 reviews)
- Great outdoor live music event!
Spent More than 3 hours Cultural Events

Jazz On The Lawn is Bloemfontein’s finest live music event. Happening on every last Sunday of the month. Jazz On The Lawn brings some of South Africa’s best live bands onto stage, to entertain and delight music enthusiasts. This is a family friendly event. Proudly brought to you by Windmill Casino. Produces by: GigCulture See more..
4.5 Golden Gate Highlands National Park (517 reviews)
- Stunning Drive through the Golden Gate Park
National Parks

There's a reason it's called the GOLDEN Gate National Park... Driving through the park in October, the rich, warm colours of the landscape are so striking! And winding your way through the mountains from the Clarens side towards Fouriesburg, the rock formations become ever more epic with each turn! A stunning drive through amazing scenery! See more..
4.5 Clarens Brewery (391 reviews)
- Unique brews and wonderful food
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Breweries

Really awesome experience, we were offered free tasters of their craft beer before placing an order. The nut larger was unique and full of flavour. My daughters also loved the fruit ciders, light and natural tasting and definitely not sweet. We ordered a platter for two to share amongst four as a light snack. Full of delicious sides and really worthwhile. Our first visit and definitely not our last. Pets welcome she was even given a freaks her bowl of her own water See more..
4.5 Oliewenhuis Art Museum (216 reviews)
- Very good museum
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Art Museums

See more..
4.5 Anglo Boer War Museum (206 reviews)
- Morning Museum Visit
Sunday: 11:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours History Museums

One of the most significant events in the history of South Africa was the Anglo-Boer War of 1899-1902. Although the protagonists were Britain and the two Boer Republics of the Transvaal and the Orange Free State, the population of South Africa as a whole became embroiled in the war either directly or indirectly. The War Museum in Bloemfontein provides an understanding of the background against which the Anglo-Boer War took place through its unique art collection, dioramas and exhibitions. The course and development of the war unfolds in front of your eyes as you progress through the museum. You are also afforded a glimpse into the life and suffering endured in the concentration and prisoner-of-war camps. We are immensely proud of this historical landmark in South Africa, and urge everyone who wants to understand this part of South African history, to pay us a visit. See more..
4.5 Free State National Botanical Garden (116 reviews)
- Time flies
Gardens

This carefully landscaped and colorful garden, with paved walkways, nature talks and moonlight walks, is popular year round. See more..
4.5 Clarens Wellness Day Spa (88 reviews)
- Stress & tension free, completely relaxed
Sunday: 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM Spas

Amazing massages & facials, we had the Balinese massage followed by deep cleanse facial. The skills of the ladies were outstanding & well worth the trip from the UK. Felt completely relaxed & comfortable, well worth the money. See more..
4.5 LIONSROCK Big Cat Sanctuary (82 reviews)
- Wonderful experience!
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

LIONSROCK is a big cat sanctuary established by FOUR PAWS, the global animal welfare organisation for animals under direct human influence, which reveals suffering, rescues animals in need and protects them. Our vision is a world where humans treat animals with respect, empathy and understanding. See more..
4.5 The National Museum (81 reviews)
- Best of bloemfontein
Sunday: 12:00 PM - 5:30 PM Speciality Museums

Excavated fossils are among the many fascinating items at this natural history museum. See more..
4.5 Amphitheatre Chain Ladders (52 reviews)
- The chain ladders may be daunting but the reward is worth it
Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks

The chain ladders on the sentinel peak hike comprise of 2 sets of ladders. At the time of writing this review, the bottom right hand chain ladder was out of service, so only the left hand ladder could be used to climb up or down to the amphitheatre. The views from the top are breathtaking, making it worth while to conquer the chain ladders. See more..
4.5 Baris Monger (38 reviews)
- Best cheesecake in South Africa
Sunday: 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Farms

Delicious goat's cheese, great wine, good coffee, beautiful gardens and awesome goats. We offer tastings of our farm made cheese, as well as cheese platters paired with local delicacies and fine wine. At the Baris Monger you will also find espresso based beverages, french style crepes and the best cheesecake. Contact us for more information. See more..
4.5 The Clarens Golf Estate (38 reviews)
- Nice course and good breakfast!
Spent More than 3 hours Golf Courses

Come home to The Clarens Golf Estate and leave behind the rush of the commercial world. Nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains on the edge of the dramatic Golden Gate nature reserve in the Eastern Free State, Clarens is fast becoming the perfect place to escape to for peace, tranquility and breath-taking beauty. See more..
4.5 R.E.A.L Adventures (34 reviews)
- Awesome River Rafting with R.E.A.L Adventures!
Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM River Rafting & Tubing

R.E.A.L Adventures in Parys is definitely one of THE places to go to for some awesome activities and fun! We went there for our Team Build and I can tell you this....IT WAS ABSOLUTELY AWESOME!! Different activities available for different tastes, however I would fully recommend the River Rafting. You will not regret it! The guides are fully professional and knowledgeable. They looked after us and guided us till the end of our rafting with no overturned boats or anyone that fell into the water - it was great! See more..
4.5 Blou Donki Art Gallery (28 reviews)
- Some of the best art in the area
Art Galleries

Beautiful pieces of colors on a canvas, this art gallery will not disappoint. Buy something for your home as reminder of the special time spent in Clarens. See more..
4.5 Jenlees Country Shop and Bistro (25 reviews)
- Pleasantly surprised
Sunday: 8:30 AM - 1:00 PM Speciality & Gift Shops

I really loved this place, it's a restaurant with a petting zoo almost. Animals everywhere, nice goodies in the shop (I ate too much home made fudge). I ordered a toasted sandwich before i embarked on my travels for the day and my mind was blown. They add like a herby butter to your bread and it was so delicious. Their card machine didn't work whilst I was there but they trusted me to come back later and fit the bill. I saw two ladies working there. Highly recommended! See more..
4.5 Tobias Art (25 reviews)
- WOW
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 1:30 AM Spent < 1 hour Art Galleries

Art and Lifestyle. Tobias is a landmark destination for discerning shoppers, looking for that something, different. Paintings, Pottery and Pillows. T-Shirts, handbags to handmade soap. Incense and Jewellery. Wallets and hadbags. Vintage toys etc. See more..
4.5 Gallery on Leviseur (22 reviews)
- Exquisite dishes
Spent 1-2 hours Art Galleries

I always come here for a relaxed breakfast or brunch/lunch and I hadn't reviewed it because I wanted to see if they can keep up with the standards set by them. Look and behold, consistently dishing out beautiful dishes,fresh ingredients , very very tasty food,great presentation and a relaxed atmosphere. Their coffee is great too! Love this place. Not forgetting the art of course , which is always refreshing and provoking. See more..
4.5 Willem Pretorius Game Reserve (14 reviews)
- Family gathering visits.
Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

We were at single quarters site. We have lots of fun there with my family. A memorable visits. All the children enjoyed their stay and they swim all day long. The rooms are very clean and their beddings are neat. Surely it is a place you can visit again See more..
4.5 Etadi Wellness Centre (14 reviews)
- Etadi Spa, a hidden gem in the Free State
Spas

Etadi is a wonderful Wellness Clinic located in the heart of Cranberry Cottage's lush gardens. We offer a comfortable and relaxing atmosphere with soft music, and believe in taking care of people and making them feel cared for. This enables guests to take the experience at Cranberry Cottage to a different level of tranquility...Think of Etadi as a place to escape, recharge your batteries, unwind and regain focus. Etadi have recently appointed Resho, a qualified and experienced masseuse from a very popular spa in Gauteng, now making it possible to supply guests with treatments until 19h00 in the evenings, during midweek. See more..
4.0 Naval Hill (255 reviews)
- Walk, jog, cycling, drive
Lookouts

Walk, jog, cycle, drive. There’s many ways to get up to enjoy views of Bloemfontein. There is also a massive statue of Nelson Mandela at the top, while another section has the planetarium. Shows for the planetarium needs to be booked in advance via Computicket. See more..
4.0 Bagamoya Wildlife Estate (126 reviews)
- BEST EXPERIENCE EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sunday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Bagamoya Wildlife Estate is a lion sanctuary farm, ideally situated about 25km from the Bloemfontein International Airport and 35km from the centre of the City of Bloemfontein, Free State Province, South Africa. A beautiful getaway place, where you get the chance to move around in the African bush, and see the African wildlife in a way that will leave you captivated. There are currently over 27 lions at Bagamoya and you can have the opportunity to interact with some them. You will get extremely close to lions and tigers, you will never forget this amazing moment! Interactions are possible on Saturdays & Sundays from 9am to 6pm, also during the week on reservation. Bagamoya offers all the necessary facilities to give you a relaxed and comfortable stay: the Lioness Restaurant with children's play area and swimming pool, a Mini-Zoo with animals from all over the world, self-catering Chalets and outdoor activities. The Estate is also the perfect venue for functions of any kinds (weddings, birthdays parties, kids parties, conferences, corporate functions, and more). See more..
4.0 Vredefort Dome (75 reviews)
- Good outing
Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Spent More than 3 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Geologic Formations

Mountains, River, Bushveld and rugged beauty draw visitors to this unique World Heritage Site. A geological treasure trove, white water rafting, Africa's wildlife, Bushveld, trillions of stars, amazing sunsets, and wonderful people. Only 90 minutes from Johannesburg but a whole different world. There are a wide variety of accommodation venues available including camping and caravan sites. Use of a registered guide is well advised for an informative tour. Heritage Site tours range from 90 minutes to full day outings. See more..