South Africa Christmas Holidays

South Africa may share many classic traditions with home, and it's also enjoyed at the height of summer! With a magical atmosphere throughout December thanks to all the trimmings – trees (usually artificial fir trees, but sometimes mango and palm trees!), markets, carol singing, lights and decorations – the gorgeous weather means the locals (and you) get to enjoy it all alongside South Africa’s great outdoors.

On Christmas Day, family and friends gather for dinner, which is usually eaten outside straight from the braai (barbeque). This might consist of a variety of braai meats or something like suckling pig served with rice, raisins, and vegetables. For dessert, it could be Christmas pudding, but many opt for the locally traditional (and delicious) malva pudding instead. Going to the beach is also an annual tradition for many and doing outdoor activities is an essential part of the Christmas period – and why not when the sun is out, and your surroundings are so spectacular?