Are you looking to break free from routine and pick up a hobby that’s anything but ordinary? Whether you want to get creative, master an unexpected skill, or challenge yourself in new ways, South Africa has plenty of unconventional activities to explore. From sword fighting to mushroom foraging, here are 16 unusual hobbies to shake things up this year.
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1. Pottery and ceramics
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There’s something deeply satisfying about transforming a lump of clay into a handmade work of art. Pottery is hands-on therapeutic and lets you create unique pieces you’ll actually want to display. You can give it a try at The Pottery Studio, with locations in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Ballito.
2. Archery
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Unleash your inner Robin Hood (or Katniss Everdeen) with archery. It’s a fantastic way to build focus, patience, and coordination—plus, hitting a bullseye is incredibly rewarding. Give it a go at Archers of Zoo Lake (Johannesburg), Hillcrest Archery Club (Durban)
3. Tango dancing
If you’re after a hobby that’s equal parts passion and precision, tango dancing is the perfect fit. It’s a great way to boost confidence, improve posture, and meet like-minded dance enthusiasts. Try it out Tango Club Cape Town, Joburg Tango Academy
4. Beekeeping
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Help save the bees while learning the ins and outs of beekeeping. This fascinating hobby gives you insight into pollination, sustainability, and—best of all—delicious homemade honey. Take a chance of creating your own honey in Pretoria at Bee Ware and Cape Town at The Cape Honey Bee Conservancy.
5. Glassblowing
Glassblowing is part art, part science, and entirely mesmerising. Learn how to shape molten glass into stunning, handcrafted pieces with expert guidance. Make your own glass at Red Hot Glass Studio in Franschhoek or Smelt Glass Studio in Johannesburg.
6. Astronomy nights
Take stargazing to the next level by joining an astronomy group. Whether you’re interested in celestial events or deep-space wonders, there’s plenty to discover. Try it at the South African Astronomical Observatory in Cape Town or the Wits Planetarium in Jozzi.
7. Sword fighting (HEMA – Historical European Martial Arts)
Train like a medieval knight with historical European martial arts (HEMA). This full-contact sport combines history, strategy, and serious skill. Give it a go in Cape Town at Ars Gladii or the Johannesburg Sword Fighting Club
8. Perfume making
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Create a scent that’s uniquely yours by blending essential oils and fragrances. A perfect hobby for those who love experimenting with different aromas.
Where to try: Kumanov Perfumery (Johannesburg)
9. Circus arts (trapeze, aerial silks, juggling)
Why go to the gym when you can learn to fly? Circus arts like trapeze and aerial silks are incredible for strength, flexibility, and confidence. Flex your flexibility, core strength and juggling skills at the Zip Zap Circus School in Cape Town.
10. Bonsai tree cultivation
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If you’re looking for a mindful, meditative hobby, bonsai tree cultivation is both relaxing and rewarding. Shape miniature trees into living sculptures with patience and precision.
Where to try: Bishopsford Bonsai Nursery (Cape Town), Bonsai Addicts (Johannesburg)
11. Mushroom foraging
Forage for wild mushrooms and learn how to identify edible varieties safely. This hobby is equal parts science, adventure, and culinary delight. Where to try: Veld & Sea (Cape Town), Mush Rush (KwaZulu-Natal)
12. Blacksmithing
Forge your own knives, tools, or artistic metal creations in a hands-on blacksmithing workshop. Make your own sword at The Forge Blacksmithing in Cape Town.
13. Calligraphy and handwriting art
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Learn the lost art of beautiful handwriting and create personalised designs for invitations, journals, and more.
Where to try: Calligraphy Johannesburg, The Calligraphy Guild of South Africa
14. Wildlife tracking
If you love the outdoors, wildlife tracking teaches you how to read animal footprints, markings, and behaviours in the wild.
Where to try: EcoTraining (Kruger, Limpopo, and other reserves)
15. Board game design
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Have a brilliant idea for a board game? Learn how to design, test, and refine your own tabletop game. Give it a go at SA Board Game Design Meetup (Online & In-Person)
16. Urban farming and vertical gardening
Make the most of small spaces by growing your own food with innovative urban farming techniques.
Where to try: Reel Gardening (Nationwide), The Urban Farmer (Johannesburg)
Trying something new is one of the best ways to grow, meet new people, and discover hidden passions. Whether you’re drawn to mindful crafts, adrenaline-fuelled activities, or immersive social experiences, there’s an unusual hobby waiting for you. Which one will you try first?
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