Wildcoast and Walking Wonder

Day 1 Durban – Mbotyi

Travel from Durban to Mbotyi River Lodge, here you can safely park your car. From Mbotyi you are transferred to  Msikaba – the start of the trail. Msikaba is hidden in a grove of milkwood trees overlooking the tranquil Msikaba lagoon and offers a deserted beach, swimming, fishing, canoeing, and a wealth of exploring. Enjoy a tasty dinner at the lodge to the sound of the crashing waves before falling asleep in comfortable tented chalets.

Overnight: Msikaba Lodge incl. dinner & breakfast

Day 2 Luphuthana (ca.16 km)

Awake early to enjoy coffee, rusks, and possibly a swim in the ocean before setting off on a fairly easy 8 km walk to the beautiful Wild Coast Lodge where, after exploring the site of the sinking of the Grosvenor, you sit down to a sumptuous brunch. Setting off from Port Grosvenor with a snack-pack, continue along the coast for another 8 km to the Wilderness lodge at Luphuthana. Here the waves of the deep crash against sandstone mesas with incredible force creating natures most spectacular display of hydro-phonics. Your luggage will be waiting on your arrival. Enjoy a catered meal and relax in your en-suite tented chalet.

Overnight: in en-suite chalets incl. dinner & breakfast

Day 3 Mbotyi (ca.19 km)

Start the day with a healthy breakfast and depart (with your lunch-pack) along the sandstone tables past the “Top Hat” to the awesome Waterfall Bluff (one of the few waterfalls in the world falling directly into the sea). After taking in the spectacle, move inland past several crystal rock pools to one of the highest points of the trail from where you have a stunning view of the Cathedral Rock. The last section of the trail takes you across white beaches and rolling grassland to Mbotyi River Lodge where a delicious dinner and comfortable bed await you. Your luggage will be awaiting your arrival.

Overnight: Mbotyi River Lodge incl. dinner & breakfast

Day 4 Coffee Bay (ca. 65 km)

After a good night’s sleep and a hearty breakfast you travel to Coffee bay. If you travel via Umthata, the Capital of the Transkei, where you can visit the Nelson Mandela Museum. Continue your way to Coffee bay – and arrive at FTTSA accredited Coffeeshack. You can unpack and unwind You have the whole day at leisure. In the evening you can  enjoy a welcome dinner and dancers.

Overnight: FTTSA Coffeeshack incl. dinner & breakfast

Day 5 Coffee Bay

Today you go on a visit to the Hole in the wall with FTTSA trained guide. This coastal hike is an always-popular 3-hour walk to one of the region’s most beautiful natural features. End a memorable experience with lunch on the beach and an adrenalin-pumping dive…

Overnight: FTTSA Coffeeshack incl. dinner & breakfast

Day 6 Matatiele /Drakensbergen (ca. 230 km)

Today you leave early and continue to the western tip of Kwa-Zulu Natal. Here you will find Matatiele, so named from the Sotho word Matata-ile meaning the Ducks Have Flown. Spend your night in very comfortable Masakala Guesthouse, traditional rondavels; owned and serviced by the local community. The warm welcome of the Xhosa, Sotho and Phuti cultures will enchant you. If you want, you can assist in preparing evening dinner and learn how to make traditional dishes.

Overnight: Masakala Guest House incl. dinner & breakfast

Day 7 Drakensbergen area

Today you can explore the Drakensbergen area. Enjoy hiking and village tours or go horse riding. Fairtrade in Tourism accredited Mehloding trails, owned and serviced by the Matatiele Community, invites you to experience a journey into the landscape, culture and history of the beautiful Drakensberg area!

Overnight: Masakala Guest House incl. dinner & breakfast

Day 8  Durban (ca. 260 km)

After breakfast you drive to Underberg, here you can book an optional visit to the Sani Pass into Lesotho.  Continue to  Durban. From here we can organize your onwards travel.

INCLUSIVE / EXCLUSIVE

Included:

• Detailed route descriptions and accommodation and/or excursion vouchers
• 7 nights in comfortable selected Responsible accommodation on basis of Dinner, Bed & Breakfast
• On day 2 and 3 a packed lunch is provided, on day 5 a guided hike to the Hole in the wall is included.

Excluded:

• Insurance
• Car rental
• extra meals and optional activities

Please read our terms and conditions to inform yourself about our booking procedures.
Kindly note that the prices and accommodation are subject to change based on date, availability and special requests.

What makes this tour different

Hike your way through one of the most undiscovered parts of South Africa guided by a local. This tour benefits the local community strongly as we make use of local accommodation, guides and projects. Get to know the people that welcome you in a personal way, arrive as a guest and leave like a friend. Enjoy South Africa’s nature and South Africa’s people.

Contact us now if you want to have info on availabilities or other open questions!

Come Closer

Day 1 Johannesburg (Start on Saturdays & Sundays only)

After your arrival at Johannesburg Int. Airport, you meet our local representative who will explain you the details of you trip. You receive the route and project descriptions and contact details. You will be transferred to your cottage.  After you acclimatised, you can explore the city yourself or go on a guided city tour, visiting historical landmarks like the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg.

Overnight: In a comfortable accommodation in Johannesburg incl. breakfast

Day 2 Elim /Makhado (ca. 443 km)

In the morning you receive your car at your accommodation. You travel to Elim, home to Shangaan and Venda Culture, in the midst of stunning nature and abundant birdlife.

Overnight: in a guesthouse close to Elim incl. breakfast

Day 3 Elim and surroundings

Drive to Olifantshoek for the day, former homeland of the Gazankulu. Experience the village living with the friendly Shangaan people, visit a local school or clinic with local Sondela friends. In the afternoon you return to your accommodation in or near Elim.

Overnight: in a guesthouse close to Elim incl. breakfast

Day 4 Elim and surroundings

Venda is the region of myths and an intriguing place to visit for its culture and scenery. Today you can visit sacred places, waterfalls as well as local artists. In many of the villages in this area there are woodcarvers, traditional dancers, story tellers etc.

Overnight: in a guesthouse close to Elim incl. breakfast

Day 5 Tshakhuma (ca. 40 km)

Today you travel from your accommodation to Tshakhuma, a rural village in the heart of Venda. You can spend the rest of the day and the night in this village. The village is beautifully located. Indigenous forest, hills and mountains and an abundance of fruit can be found here. You will experience staying one night in this friendly community.

Overnight: in a local home stay incl. traditional dinner and breakfast

Day 6 Hoedspruit /Kruger National Park area (ca. 226 km)

From Tshakhuma the road leads us through the Limpopo province to Hoedspruit near the Kruger National Park, where you overnight 2 nights in unique and thatched Tree house Lodges outside the park.

Overnight: on the boarder of the Kruger National Park incl. breakfast

Day 7 Kruger National Park

Today you can have a wildlife experience in Big Five territory; spot the Elephant, Lion, Rhino, Leopard and the Buffalo. For those who prefer a guided game drive in open Land Rovers, or participate in guided bush walks with rangers and trackers; these excursions can be booked via your accommodation.

Overnight: on the boarder of the Kruger National Park. incl. breakfast

Day 8 Johannesburg (ca. 455 km)

Drive via Nelspruit. On your way you can stop over at beautiful viewpoints on the Panorama Route. Enjoy highlights as Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and God’s Window. Travel to your hotel or cottage in Johannesburg, where you overnight.

Overnight: comfortable accommodation in Johannesburg incl. breakfast

Day 9 By train to Matjiesfontein (ca. 1200 km)

After breakfast your car will be picked up and you will be transferred to the train station for the next part of your journey (leaves Monday, Wednesday, Friday, and Sunday only). Travelling by train gives you an idea of the size of the country and its diversity. It shows you how people live, where they work and how they survive in sometimes rough conditions. Villa’s, shacks, farms, cottages are seen in or near deserts, mountains, vineyards and fields. You will have enough time to chat to the local people who are on the train as well.

Overnight: in the Shosholoza Meyl train (own compartment)

Day 10 Matjiesfontein

In the morning the train arrives at Matjiesfontein (leaves Wednesday, Saturday, and Monday only). You will spend tonight at the Lord Milner Hotel, which has remained virtually unchanged for over a century. Time to take a break! Read a book, dive in the swimming pool, get yourself a massage or wonder through the bushveld.

Overnight: Lord Milner Hotel incl. breakfast

Day 11 By train to Cape Town (ca. 250 km)

Hop on the train again and continue to Cape Town. You will see the contrast between the dryness of the Karoo and the beautiful vineyards of the mountainous Cape. Upon arrival in Cape Town will a transfer for you be arranged to welcome you in the Mothercity and to take you to your Fairtrade in Tourism certified accommodation for the night. Once you have settled at your accommodation you can relax and later enjoy the night life.

Overnight: FTTSA Bickley House incl. breakfast

Day 12 Cape Town

Today you can spend at leisure. You can explore Cape area; hike the Table Mountain, relax on the beaches or visit the museums or visit one of the many projects. Go souvenir shopping on one of the many shops in the city.

Overnight: FTTSA Bickely House incl. breakfast

Day 13 Khayelitsha (ca. 150 km)

This is the day of contrasts. In the morning you can make a tour through the richest parts of Cape Town and visit the cape Peninsula and Cape Point. In the afternoon you will be picked up at your accommodation and participate on a guided tour in local township Khayelitsha. You get a short tour and check in with a local B&B where you spend the night. Enjoy a local dinner prepared for you or alternatively prepare your own in a cooking course. You can taste traditional beer (Umqombothi) in a Sheeben before you go to sleep.

Overnight: in a bed & breakfast in Khayelitsha incl. dinner & breakfast

Day 14 The tales of Cape Town

After breakfast you will be picked up and your tour continues. You visit different social projects in the area, amongst which the Baphumelele Project. From Khayelitsha you will be transferred back to your hotel in Cape Town. You can visit the District Six Museum and the Streetwires project. Here you can buy your souvenirs from the people directly or even participate in workshop designing your own jewellery with the crafters.

Overnight: FTTSA Bickley House incl. breakfast

Day 15

Today your transfer to Cape Town Int. Airport will collect you 3,5 hours before departure for your flight home or travel to your next destination.

INCLUSIVE / EXCLUSIVE

Including

• Transfer from Johannesburg International Airport to accommodation
• Meet and Greet
• Extended route descriptions
• Train ticket JHB – Matjiesfontein & Matjiesfontein – Cape Town Tourist Class Shosholoza Meyl
• Accommodation: 12 nights Bed and Breakfast, 2 dinner
• Guided tour in Khayelitsha including dinner & transfers to accommodation
• Transfer from Cape Town Station to Cape Town accommodation
• Transfer from Cape Town accommodation to Cape Town Int. Airport

Excluding:

• Car hire
• (inter) national Flights
• Entry fees for National Parks and Panorama routes/ tollways
• luggage service/portage
• insurance
• optional excursions and extra meals

Please read our terms and conditions to inform yourself about our booking procedures.
Kindly note that the prices and accommodation are subject to change based on date, availability and special requests.

What makes this tour different:

This tour separates itself from the standard travel itineraries because it balances local home experiences with comfort travel.
The tour contributes positively to South Africa’s people and nature by booking locally owned and Fairtrade in Tourism certified accommodation and train travel between Johannesburg and Cape Town. Travelling with the Shosholoza Meyl is not only a unique experience but also gives you the opportunity to sit back and relax whilst enjoying the beautiful changing views.

Contact us now if you want to have info on availabilities or other open questions!

Dream Travel Route

Day 1 Amakhala Game Reserve

From the airport or your accommodation you drive to Amakhala Private Game reserve. The haunting cry of the fish eagle echoes through the rugged krantzes, and the veld grass whispers with the roaming of Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo, Cheetah, Giraffe, Zebra and numerous other antelope. At Amakhala you can experience the delights of the African bushveld while on safari, bushwalk, river cruise or simply with a glass of wine from the veranda of your lodge. You can bring an optional visit Isipho site, craft workshop or the  Amakhala Conservation Centre.

In the evening you can choose to go on an evening safari, in a 4×4 with an experienced and qualified ranger.

Overnight: Amakhala Game Reserve incl. meals and 1 game drive a day

Day 2 Amakhala Game Reserve

Today you have many possibilities, discover Port Elizabeth (also known as Mandela Bay), stroll along its seashore and shops or participate in an optional cultural excursion from Fairtrade certified Calabash Tours. Calabash Tours has been offering ethical, informative and fun social history tours of Port Elizabeth since 1997. These tours take you on a journey of discovery, from the harsh realities of our apartheid past, to the great triumphs of the current democratic South Africa. Our tours are well researched, developed with community consent, and give you a great insight into South Africa today. Tours depart daily at 10:00am and 4:00pm. Share Africa can include this unique cultural excursion at your convenience.

Overnight: Amakhala Game Reserve incl. meals and 1 Game Drive a day

Day 3 Stormsriver Rest Camp  (230 km)

Leaving Addo behind you travel over the N2 to the Tsitsikamma Section of the Garden Route National Park. The heartland of the park stretches some 5km to sea, protecting a wonderland of inter-tidal life, reef and deep-sea fish.  Dolphins frolic in the breakers, surfing and playing for the sheer joy of life, and the gentle giant of the ocean, the southern right whale visits here, coming inshore to breed. You can choose to explore this great nature reserve on an optional Fairtrade in Tourism certified Stormsriver Adventure Canopy Tour.

Note that the accommodation for tonight is self catering, so don’t forget to stop en route for some groceries.

Overnight: Stormsriver Mouth Rest Camp, room only

Day 4 Plettenberg (55 km)

Today you continue your way to Plettenberg, the Jewel of the Garden Route. You have many possibilities to explore the area, see the unspoiled golden beaches, a dramatic rocky peninsula, intriguing lagoons and estuaries, towering indigenous forests and unpolluted rivers and sea. With its exceptional climate and beautiful view sites over the Indian Ocean, Plettenberg Bay is the perfect destination for people that want to discover the great diversity that South Africa has to offer.

Overnight: Albergo Backpackers incl. breakfast

Day 5 Plettenberg

Today you participate on an Marine discovery with a great possibility to see whales up to a distance of 300m to the boat with  Ocean Safaris Boat based tour this tour is included in the trip.

Overnight: Albergo Guesthouse incl. breakfast

Day 6 Knysna  (40 km)

We continue to  the Lagoon city of Knysna, between the town of George and the Tsitsikama forests, the ruggedly beautiful Outeniqua and Langkloof mountains drop down from the interior plateau to the coastal plain.  Knysna, part of the Western Cape, is beautifully surrounded by lush forests, clear lakes and beautiful beaches. You can book an optional trip on the lagoon or visit Amwa designs a Fair Trade design and manufacturing workshop.  In the evening you partake in a different experience! Choose the excitement of the unknown and the opportunity to share the reality of other people’s lives. Meet local South Africa and overnight by a local family.

Overnight  Homestay of Mothers of Creation incl. breakfast

Day 7 Grahamstown (395 km)

Today you drive back to into the Eastern Cape, partly over the same route of the N2, to the city of  Grahamstown – you enjoy another homestay, the accommodation provided is family friendly and close to the town centre. You will be bale to go in to the town to one of the restaurants and cafes or

Overnight: Kwam eMakana Homestay incl. breakfast

Day 8 Coffee Bay   (340 km)

Today you have to leave early and travel via Umthata , the Capital of the Transkei, where you can visit the Nelson Mandela Museum. Continue your way to Coffee bay – nearby you find Mdumbi. Overlooking an awesome beach, it is the perfect spot for a South African, Wild Coast beach holiday experience. Unspoiled, rough, natural, local South Africa at its best!

Overnight:  Mdumbi Bed & Breakfast incl. breakfast

Day 9 Coffee Bay

You have the whole day at leisure. You can visit nearby Coffeeshack, situated in coffee bay and book an optional visit Hole in the wall with FTTSA trained guide. This COASTAL HIKE TO HOLE-IN-THE-WALL – an always-popular 3-hour walk to one of the region’s most beautiful natural features. End a memorable experience with lunch on the beach and an adrenalin-pumping dive…

Overnight:  Mdumbi Bed & Breakfast incl. breakfast

Day 10 Matatiele /Drakensbergen (230 km)

Today you we leave early and continue to the western tip of Kwa-Zulu Natal. Here you will find Matatiele, so named from the Sotho word Matata-ile meaning the Ducks Have Flown. Spend your night in very comfortable Masakala Guesthouse, traditional rondavels; owned and serviced by the local community. The warm welcome of the Xhosa, Sotho and Phuti cultures will enchant you.

Overnight in Masakala Guest House incl. breakfast
If you want, you can assist in preparing evening dinner and learn how to make traditional dishes.

Day 11 Drakensbergen

Today you can explore the Drakensbergen area. Enjoy hiking and village tours or go horse riding. Or you can choose to extend your holiday. Fairtrade in Tourism accredited Mehloding trails, owned and serviced by the Matatiele Community, invites you to experience a journey into the landscape, culture and history of the beautiful Drakensberg area. For the fit and the adventurous …. a stunning guided trail, 4 days/ 4 nights, into this lesser known part of the Ukhahlamba / Drakensberg national park ; a World Heritage Site. Discover San rock art, protea and tree ferns, indigenous forests, wild flower gardens and rare birds. Pass through rural villages and be greeted by friendly local communities and experience traditional culture. At the end of each day be welcomed by your hostess at comfortable chalets where you can enjoy a hot shower, African cuisine and an inviting bed!

Overnight: Masakala Guest House incl. breakfast

Day 12 Durban (260 km)

Leave early and drive to Underberg, here you can book an optional visit to the Sani Pass into Lesotho. Continue to Durban. From here we can organize your onwards travel or your flight home.

RATES & INCLUSIVE / EXCLUSIVE

Rates from ZAR 5,750.00 per person

Included:

• 11 nights in comfortable accommodation
• 10 Breakfasts included
• 2 Lunches included
• 2 Dinners included
• 1 night in Stormsriver nature reserve on the basis of room only
• Ocean Safaris Boat based tour
• 2 Game Drive experiences
• Detailed route descriptions and vouchers for the booked accommodation and excursion.

Excluded:

• Car rental incl. fuel and insurance
• conservation fee into national parks
• meals not mentioned
• personal expenses

Please read our terms and conditions to inform yourself about our booking procedures.
Kindly note that the prices and accommodation are subject to change based on date, availability and special requests.

What makes this tour different:

On this tour are you guaranteed to experience local South Africa in its purest form. You will visit unspoiled areas, overnight at local home stay accommodation and will get the chance to meet the South African as strangers and leave as friends. Explore South Africa’s diverse nature in the National Parks during this 12 day introduction to the real South Africa.

Contact us now if you want to have information on availabilities or other open questions!