Things To Do in Clarens, South Africa

Clarens Things to Do

The small town of Clarens offers memorable sentimental value that captures a little slice of everything South African from cowboys to a hut village. If you like an African adventure without going through the fuss, Clarens is the place to be.

Authentic Culture

Clarens’ roots began when a few artists moved there. The well-known South African artist Frans Claerhout lived in the area until he recently passed away at the age of 87. Today you can find some of his works in a number of galleries in Clarens. The renowned Johan Smith art gallery is also popular. The Basotho Cultural Village is en-route to Clarens and situated 10km from Phuthaditjhaba on R712 to Golden Gate Highlands National Park. This Basotho village is a replica that shows how Basotho homes have changed over the past two centuries. You can speak with the chief, sample the local beer, and consult with the ngaka. You will also be entertained by traditional Basotho dancers and can shop at their curio shop. They have a selection of arts and crafts for sale.

Natural Sights

The hiking around Clarens is amazing. All you have to do is just walk to the edge of town and go adventuring. On the way from Clarens to the Golden Gate Highlands National Park is the scenic Highlands Route that is surrounded by mountainous splendor. They are not too challenging but be sure to take along water and sunscreen. The Rooiberge range encompasses the village, whilst the mighty Maluti’s stand proud towards the southeast in shades of purple and blue. Sandstone cliffs with multicolored horizontal strata layers are a common sight. They are a unique geological feature of the area known as the Clarens formation. Many homes in the Clarens Valley are made from the Clarens sandstone.

At Schaapplaats Farm Cottages, you can take a leisurely horse ride that is good for beginners and ideal for kids on their first horse riding trip. The ride caters for everyone from novice to experienced. The horses look well and the tack is in good condition. The ride itself is amazing and the scenery is stunning. You really feel like a cowboy and it’s a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. You can also spend a week at Schaapplaats with daily riding and jumping lessons. Bookings can be made via the Clarens tourist office or you can book by phone or online.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in Clarens.