In this post-COVID world, the global shift towards remote work has given rise to a new breed of professionals — the digital nomads.
This has given many workers the opportunity to maintain their job and steady income while getting to choose their view — from golden sand beaches to a bustling city skyline. And with South Africa being named the best place for digital nomads in Africa, there’s no better destination for remote work!
South Africa’s diverse landscapes and rich cultural tapestry lends itself to a variety of lifestyles to suit every remote worker. Here are the 10 best destinations in South Africa for remote work to help you pick the right one for you.
Cape Town, often referred to as the Mother City, stands as a beacon for digital nomads seeking a base for working remotely. With its iconic Table Mountain as a backdrop to the bustling city, Cape Town provides the best of both worlds with equal opportunity for work and play.
The city is home to numerous coworking spaces, offering reliable internet connectivity, a vibrant cultural scene with trendy cafés, bars and art galleries as well as a captivating outdoors including mountain ranges, forests, wine farms and some of the best beaches in the world. But it’s important to bear in mind that Cape Town is also South Africa’s most expensive city and is not always very sustainable for all digital nomad lifestyles.
Best cafés and workspaces in Cape Town:
Bootlegger Coffee Company
Neighbourgood Coworking
Café Neo
Latitude
Field Office
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As the economic hub of South Africa, Johannesburg offers a unique blend of urban energy and cultural richness. Digital nomads can tap into the city's entrepreneurial spirit while enjoying the diverse cultural experiences it has to offer. Coworking spaces are abundant, ensuring that remote professionals have the infrastructure needed to balance work and exploration.
Plus, as the economic hub of South Africa, you open yourself up to an endless amount of networking and new client opportunities.
Best cafés and workspaces in Johannesburg:
Bean There Coffee Company
Workshop17
The Grind Coffee Shop
Cube Workspace
Seam Coffee
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The coastal gem of Durban is an ideal destination for digital nomads looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. The city's warm climate, beautiful beaches and booming entrepreneurial scene make it a growing hotspot for remote workers.
Durban's coworking spaces provide a laid-back vibe, allowing individuals to balance work with regular breaks to soak up the sun, explore KZN’s subtropical landscapes or catch a wave along the Golden Mile.
Best cafés and workspaces in Durban:
Skyline Coffee
Treehouse Workspace
Village at Yard 41
Urban Desk
Home Bru Graft Café
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For those seeking a quieter setting surrounded by natural beauty, Stellenbosch, nestled in the Cape Winelands, offers a peaceful retreat. This picturesque town provides a conducive environment for remote work, with charming cafés, vineyard views and a slower pace of life.
With Stellenbosch University at the heart of this small town, Stellenbosch is beaming with students and young professionals, ensuring there are lots of coffee shops and coworking spaces that come with fast WIFI and reliable generators. Stellenbosch is the perfect destination for digital nomads craving a peaceful work environment with a touch of sophistication.
Best cafés and workspaces in Stellenbosch:
Schoon
Launch Lab
Legado Coffee Roastery
Hello Work
Plato Coffee
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Situated on the southeastern coast, Port Elizabeth, now known as Gqeberha, combines coastal serenity with a growing number of coworking spaces. Digital nomads can find inspiration in the city's beautiful beaches, friendly community and proximity to wildlife reserves.
Port Elizabeth strikes a balance between work and relaxation, making it an attractive destination for remote creatives.
Best cafés and workspaces in Port Elizabeth:
Stir Coffee Co.
Como Caffe
The Rose Garden
Regus
Rhubarb and Lime
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The West Coast, often overlooked, reveals itself as a hidden oasis for digital nomads seeking a peaceful escape. Pristine beaches, charming fishing villages and unique flora define this secluded region.
Setting up a remote workspace overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, indulging in fresh seafood and exploring the West Coast National Park during downtime make the West Coast a gem waiting to be discovered by digital nomads.
Best cafés and workspaces on the West Coast:
The Daily Coffee Café
Redberry Coffee Shop
Café Blond
Charlie’s Deli and Café
Wings Coffee Roasters
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As one of the three capitals of South Africa, Pretoria, the administrative capital, offers a captivating blend of history, culture and modernity. The city's jacaranda-lined streets create a picturesque setting, and its historic architecture provides a unique backdrop for remote work.
Pretoria offers a more relaxed atmosphere compared to its southern neighbour Johannesburg, making it an ideal destination for digital nomads who seek a balance between work and quiet.
Best cafés and workspaces in Pretoria:
Matador Café
Grit Space
Grounded at Echo
Space Menlyn Maine
Café 41
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Nestled along the famous Garden Route, Knysna is both a digital nomad and a nature lover's paradise. Surrounded by lush forests and stunning coastal scenery, this small town provides a serene environment for focused work.
Coworking spaces in Knysna, although fewer in number, offer a peaceful and focused environment. During breaks, digital nomads can explore the town's cosy cafés, embark on hiking trails through the Knysna Forest or take a boat trip to the iconic Knysna Heads.
Best cafés and workspaces in Knysna:
Lunar Café
Wazy Worx
Leisure Island
The African Bean
White Washed Café
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Hermanus, situated along the Whale Coast, is a destination that combines coastal charm with exhilarating whale-watching experiences, presenting a unique destination for digital nomads. The town's coworking spaces, often with ocean views, provide an inspiring backdrop for focused work. Hermanus offers a relaxed atmosphere, allowing digital nomads to enjoy the coastal lifestyle while meeting work demands.
During the whale-watching season, which typically runs from June to November, professionals can take a break from their screens to witness the majestic Southern Right Whales frolicking in the waters. Hermanus caters to those who appreciate the seamless integration of work and the soothing rhythm of the ocean.
Best cafés and workspaces in Hermanus:
Dal Italia
Co.Unity
The Deli Coffee Co.
Hustle House Workspaces
Tulip Coffee Roasting
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For digital nomads who crave the thrill of catching waves during breaks, Jeffreys Bay is the answer. Renowned as a surfing capital, the town's golden beaches and consistent waves make it an ideal spot for surf enthusiasts. But this coastal town offers more than just epic waves.
Coworking spaces in Jeffreys Bay cater to the needs of remote professionals, offering a relaxed beach lifestyle combined with a productive work environment. With a growing community of young professionals, Jeffreys Bay provides a unique opportunity to connect with fellow nomads who share a passion for both work and surfing.
Best cafés and workspaces in Jeffreys Bay:
Infood Coffee Roastery
Cowork Surf
First Light Coffee Bar
Green Room JBay
Suikerbossie
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Once you’ve chosen your next digital nomad oasis, you have to get all your stuff to your new home. So if you’re in need of a trusted, low-cost moving service, Wise Move is the place to go!
Wise Move’s moving company platform connects you with all the best local movers trusted by thousands of South Africans who can transport you and your belongings to every corner of the country, no matter how remote your destination. By comparing 5,000+ reviews and competitive prices, you’re guaranteed to find the perfect movers for your move, whether big or small loads.
Get your quote on Wise Move today and continue thriving as a digital nomad in South Africa.
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