Looking for fun ways to stay active, connect with your partner, and meet new people? There are many outdoor activities that couples can enjoy together, allowing you to make new friends and keep fit!
Hiking clubs
Hiking is perfect for couples who want to be physically active together and meet others with similar interests. There’s no better reward than conquering trails together, with plenty of time for conversation with fellow hikers along the way.
Most hiking clubs organise regular outings varying in difficulty, making them accessible regardless of your fitness level.
- Consider joining the Johannesburg Hiking Club, one of the country’s oldest and largest hiking organisations. They offer scheduled hikes across Gauteng for all experience levels.
- Cape Town Hiking with Tim Lundy organises weekly hikes throughout the Western Cape.
- For KwaZulu-Natal residents, the Mountain Backpackers Cluboffers excellent guided hikes across the Drakensberg region.
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Parkrun
Parkrun has exploded in popularity worldwide, including in South Africa. These free, weekly 5km timed runs or walks take place every Saturday morning in parks across the country. The beauty of Parkrun is its inclusivity—people of all ages and fitness levels participate, making it easy to start conversations before or after the run.
Notable South African Parkruns include the scenic Rondebosch Common Parkrun in Cape Town, the popular Delta Park Parkrun in Johannesburg, and the beautiful botanical gardens setting of the Durban North Parkrun. After completing your run, many participants gather at nearby cafés, creating a great opportunity for socialising.
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Padel
Padel is another popular activity that has taken root worldwide. The racquet sport combines some elements of tennis and squash in a closed or netted court that’s smaller than a tennis court. It’s accessible for players of all skill levels and typically played in doubles format, creating natural opportunities to meet and socialise with other couples.
Many padel clubs organise social leagues and regular round-robin events specifically designed to help players connect with others.
In the Cape Town, Africa Padel has various clubs in Camps Bay, Claremont, Plettenberg Bay, V&A waterfront and more.
Johannesburg’s Padel & Social Club is an excellent option with an on-site restaurant for socialising.
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