Winelands, Whales and Wildlife

There are a variety of tours on offer in Cape Town. For something that is a bit different, try the Eats Tour. This is a guided walking tour through the markets of Cape Town. Here you will have the opportunity of tasting local cuisine and learning more about the culture.

For Photographers, there are a number of tours that are guided with a specialist photographer, learn techniques and the use of cameras without having to be an expert yourself!

Just a short leisurely drive from Cape Town is the stunning verdant winelands. In the morning drive to the tranquil Babylonstoren for two nights with breakfast included.

One of the best preserved werfs (farm yards) with over 300 years of history, Babylonstoren is a stunning Cape Dutch farm. The interiors of the 12 guest cottages and Manor House are chic, clean and modern, lovingly combined with the heritage of the Drakenstein Valley. The one and two bedroom en-suite cottages have marvellous views of either the garden or vineyard with an outside area to enjoy alfresco dining.

At the heart of Babylonstoren farm is the garden spread across eight acres with over 300 types of edible plant. Whilst strolling through the glorious garden you will come across clusters dedicated to vegetables, berries, bees, plants, ducks and chickens. The restaurant serves seasonal dishes, the ingredients picked from the garden for a satisfying and delicious farm to plate affair.

Found in the heart of the Garden Route, Knysna is full of natural splendour with giant yellow wood and stinkwood trees running down to a coastline of cliffs and coves harbouring glorious beaches. Completely immerse yourself in this wonderful nature; trek through the forests, relax on the beaches and fly over the dense forest canopy on the aerial runway.

Take a dolphin and whale boat trip around the bay, combining it with a delightful walk on the Robberg Peninsula or a boat trip up the Keurbooms River with a picnic lunch. For the truly adventurous there is the world’s highest bungee jump and opportunities to sky dive; the most exhilarating way to take in the incredible views.

Well-known for its Oysters, go on a sunset cruise on the Knysna Lagoon, taste an oyster or six with a lovely glass of local Sparkling wine.

The Markets in Knysna are also well known, try out some Chocolate tasting and browse the local crafts.

Or choose to spend the day relaxing at the side of the lodge pool with a book.

Passing through Port Elizabeth, drive to Pumba Private Game Reserve for a three night stay inclusive of all meals, local drinks and scheduled morning and afternoon game drives, guided game walks. Pumba Private Game Reserve is an untouched wildlife haven which has achieved gold status for its environmental work.

Spend your leisure time relaxing in the comfort of one of two five star accommodations, either Pumba Water Lodge or Msenge Bush Lodge, the private and spacious chalets of both a delightful place to enjoy the magnificent views of the gorgeous African landscapes.

Spend your days driving through the beauty of the reserve in an open luxury Land Rover, the knowledgeable ranger teaching you about the abundance of wildlife. During these hours out exploring the bush your wildlife sightings can include lion, rhino, elephant, cheetah, buffalo, giraffe, wildebeest, zebra and over 16 antelope species. At the end of the day, enjoy authentic African cuisine around the fire.

Also on offer are night safari drives for a chance to view an entirely different array of animals. These nocturnal creatures include the elusive aardvark, hyena and aardwolf.

Another wonderful night-time activity is star gazing. Looking up into the sky blank of light pollution, the stars and moon the only sources of light, the field guides will reveal the wonders of the South Celestial Skies pointing out the Southern Cross and Orion’s Belt.