Nestled in the foothills of the majestic Maluti Mountains, Clarens, fondly known as "The Jewel of the Eastern Free State" is a captivating town in South Africa. Its idyllic location is approximately 330 kilometers from Johannesburg, providing easy accessibility for both local and international tourists. Known for its unparalleled natural beauty, Clarens boasts a rich blend of golden sandstone cliffs that encircle the town, creating a distinctive visual appeal that is simply breathtaking. It is also revered as an artist's haven, being home to a myriad of art galleries sprinkled amidst its picturesque lanes. A wealth of outdoor activities such as hiking, horseback riding, and trout fishing, along with charming local craft breweries, restaurants and boutique shops, make Clarens an unforgettable travel destination.

3.9 /5

Based on our research

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Safety:Very safe

Clarens in South Africa generally maintains a tranquil and friendly atmosphere which makes it welcoming for solo female travelers. While crime levels are generally lower than in major cities, it is always important to stay alert and cautious, particularly at night. Public transportation is not always reliable, so it is recommended to either hire a car or use taxi services. As a unique artistic village with a lot of outdoor activities, it is a wonderful place for solo travel.

Transport:Easy

Navigating through Clarens can be relatively straightforward due to its small size and well-laid paths. Most of the cafes, shops, and local attractions are within walking distance, making it easy to explore. However, for visiting outer places like Golden Gate National Park or going for hikes, you might need to hire a car if you don't have your personal mode of transport. Always ensure safety and ask for local recommendations before setting off for distant places. Overall, Clarens is fairly easy to move around, suitable for solo female travelers.

Things to do:Interesting

Clarens, offers a variety of activities, making it highly engaging for solo female travelers. The picturesque town is nestled in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, providing opportunities for thrilling outdoor pursuits like hiking, horse riding, and white-water rafting. It is also popularly known as 'The Jewel of the Free State', owing to its beautiful landscapes and art scene. Home to many artists, the town offers numerous art galleries where one can explore the local art culture. In addition, it's peppered with cafes and boutiques for a quaint shopping experience.

Food:Above average

The food in Clarens provides a delightful culinary experience. The variety ranges from traditional African recipes to contemporary world cuisine, emphasizing primarily on locally sourced, fresh ingredients. Although vegetarian options are somewhat limited, the abundance of delicious dishes with beef, poultry and seafood more than compensates for it. Dessert lovers can relish a variety of pastries and home-baked goods. The culinary scene could however be more diverse to cater to various dietary preferences and to introduce a wider array of global cuisines.

Budget:Moderate

Clarens is a somewhat budget-friendly destination. Accommodation options range from budget hostels to more luxurious guesthouses, catering to different price ranges. Dining options also vary quite a bit, with both affordable and high-end restaurants available. Outdoor activities, which are a big attraction in Clarens, might increase your expenses. The prices for adventures like hiking, horse riding, and trout fishing can add up quickly. Do remember, travel costs can be subjective to individual spending habits.

Ren (38)

South Africa

Family travel experience

Beautiful little town with little curio shops, restaurants, bakeries. Gin tasting. Safe. Clean. Not much to do though in December and very busy. Quad bikes, hiking, golf. There's a little spa. The book shop is nothing to rave about. Good coffee. Rather go in winter and stop in Lesotho or maybe the berry picking season. The drive was abit bumpy, alot of potholes. But the scenery was worth it. Golden gate highlands national park was awesome to see.

Posted: December 7, 2023Experienced: November, 2022

Things to do: 3/5Food: 3/5Budget-friendly: 2/5Safety: 5/5