There is something simplistically joyful about packing a picnic basket, loading it in the car with family and friends, and heading out to find the perfect picnic spot for a beautiful day full of fun in the sun and full bellies. It’s one of the best things about living in such a beautiful country like South Africa. South Africa is full of stunning scenery, fresh green trees, and plants hosts some of the best parks and gardens in the world.
So what are you waiting for? Let’s look at some picnic basket essentials and then take a look at just a few of the best spots to enjoy this simple pleasure.
Picnic basket essentials
1. Wet Wipes
Nothing spoils a great day, quite like a big sticky mess. Get ahead of the problem by packing some reliable wet wipes to clean up any sticky spills and little sticky hands (it’s inevitable). You can’t always be sure there will be running water nearby. Trust us, you’ll thank us later.
2. Salt and Pepper
Your food looks delicious, and everyone is ready to dig in, but whether it’s a big or small group, you’ll undoubtedly need some seasoning. So take your picnic basket to the next level by adding salt, pepper, or any other seasoning favourites. Condiments might be a small thing for a casual picnic, but they go a long way in making your picnic basket the envy of the whole park.
3. Frozen Bottles of Water
The main rule for outdoor eating is to keep hot foods hot and cold foods cold. Ice packs will get the job done, but frozen bottles of water do double duty. After they melt (and the food’s been eaten), you’ll have cold drinks on hand for everyone.
4. A Tray
The struggle can be REAL when you are trying to cut foods like cheese or buttering rolls on a paper plate while everyone is hungry and ready to eat. The pressure is on, so save yourself the irritation by packing a sturdy, lightweight cutting board.
5. Serving Spoons
Cutlery is, of course, VITAL when it comes to packing your picnic basket. You can get away with plastic knives and forks for this type of occasion, but scooping a green salad with a small fork will take FOREVER. So do yourself a favour and throw a large serving spoon or two in your picnic basket just in case.
6. Corkscrew/Bottle Opener
Imagine this, you are enjoying the sun on your face and the sounds of birds chirping, and you hear grunting and huffing noises as your friends and family try to open the wine with a spoon. The bottle is clearly winning that fight. Note to self, always pack a corkscrew or bottle opener for picnics.
7. Trash Bags
Always throw a trash bag or two in your bag for easy clean-up when the picnic’s over. Cleaning up after a picnic is good picnic etiquette. Keep the area you enjoyed clean for the next group of people.
8. Food and Drinks
Of course, everyone has their favourite picnic snacks, but here are just a few delicious snack suggestions to add to your picnic basket. Sandwiches and finger food such as mini sausage rolls or wraps are always a win. They are easy to make and are great when you don’t have a sturdy table to eat on. When it comes to drinks, lemonade for the kids and wine or beers for the adults is a must. Now, we can’t forget those who have a little sweet tooth, so chocolate chip cookies or lemon bars can be thrown in your basket for maximum enjoyment.
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Places to go for a picnic in South Africa
Now that you have the ULTIMATE picnic basket packed. Let’s take a peek at just a few of the stunning parks and gardens for you to enjoy.
Johannesburg
Photo courtesy of SANBI
Walter Sisulu National Botanical Garden in Roodepoort is a must for your picnic trip. It’s the perfect little getaway from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg’s busy life. This garden has large open lawns, dependable facilities, and a variety of exciting wildlife you can see if you are lucky. Another huge plus is that you can enjoy your time along with your fantastic picnic in the backdrop of the beautiful Witpoortjie waterfall.
Photo courtesy of Amethyst
Emmarentia Dam has become a local favourite because of its tranquil lawns and walking trails with cute benches for you to sit and enjoy the views. The dam is perfect for people of all ages to enjoy, with big lawns for kids to play in and multiple activities to keep everyone entertained.
Photo courtesy of James and Ethel Gray Park Foundation
Enjoy your picnic as the sun sets at James and Ethel Gray Park. Locals claim this park is a great setting to see the sunset while enjoying the beautiful trees and long windy walkways. Its steep banks make this picnic spot a must for its incredible city views. Take your picnic to the next level with this spot by kicking back, spreading out on the rolling hills, and just taking it all in.
Cape Town
Photo courtesy of City Sightseeing
Can you even think of picnic spots without mentioning Green Point Park? The answer is no, and there are so many reasons why. Green point park is the perfect spot if you want to just enjoy the sun rays on your face while lying on its crisp green lawns. It’s also perfect if you want to participate in fun outdoor activities like jogging or playing a game of catch. Want more reasons to have your picnic at Green Point Park? Well, how about the scenic views of the wetlands, the ocean, AND views of the enormous biodiversity. Convinced yet?
Photo courtesy of Insideguide
Newlands Forest is famous for its vast trees and diverse vegetation. A favourite for runners, dog walkers, and picnickers, this picnic spot is perfect if you want to be surrounded by everything green and enjoy some quiet time.
Photo courtesy of Candide
The Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is renowned for its diverse flora and its beautiful setting against the Eastern slopes of Table Mountain. So enjoy your picnics on the hectares of sprawling lawns. Kirstenbosch also hosts occasional open-air concerts on Sunday evenings during the summertime. So bring your picnic basket along to enjoy all that Kirstenbosch garden has to offer.
Durban
Photo courtesy of Candide
Enjoy your picnic surrounded by indigenous and exotic plants, including cycads, orchids, and palms, at Durban Botanic Gardens. Being the oldest surviving botanical garden in Africa, locals flock to this picnic spot for its calm atmosphere and vast landscape.
Photo courtesy of Umhlanga Rocks Tourism
The Japanese Gardens is an enchanting valley of lakes, waterfalls, and rustic bridges. Take your picnic basket beneath the stunning willow trees, or share your leftovers with the many residents of the ponds displayed throughout the whole park.
Photo courtesy of NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service
Mitchell Park is just another perfect spot to enjoy on a regular occasion. Another reason to enjoy your picnic here, is its cute mini zoo where you can visit many different beautiful birds and say hi to the monkeys, who have remained an exciting attraction for both the young and old. Mitchell Park is also a favourite for families as it has a big play area for all kids to enjoy.
Okay, so you are all set for the best picnic ever! Picnic basket? Check. Perfect picnic location? Check! Be sure to check your weather app for optimized picnic conditions, invite as many of your loved ones as possible because the more, the merrier, and don’t forget to take lots of pictures to capture the best moments.
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