Horseback riding on superbly schooled and very rider friendly horses on one of the most beautiful, long, white sandy beaches in Cape Town…Noordhoek Beach.
Noordhoek is situated below the Southern Slopes of Chapman’s Peak Drive and is popular with walkers and horseback riders. It is famed for its long white sandy beach, ideal for horse riding on the beach for a close up nature experience.
Experience breathtaking views of Chapman’s Peak and Noordhoek Beach as you pass through wetlands with indigenous bird life, then over the dunes and onto the beach where you can visit the Kakapo Shipwreck.
The SS Kakopo, a 665 ton steamship, was on her way to Sydney from the United Kingdom with a cargo of coal when she ran aground on the Cape of Storms on 25 May 1900. Mistaking Chapman’s Peak for Cape Point due to treacherous weather, the ship ended up on the beach and while no crew were lost, all efforts to get her back into the water failed. Today the boiler, rudders and ribs can still be seen sticking out of the sand.
You’ll be riding with a qualified trail guide and all equipment needed will be provided.
Point of departure – Sleepy Hollow Lane, Noordhoek, Cape Town
Duration of tour – 3 hours (2 hours horse ride and 1 hour preparation)
Departure times – 09h00, 13h00 or 16h00
Guests are advised to bring sunblock and comfortable clothing.
Guests should ideally have an intermediate level of fitness.
South Africa is known for its dramatic landscapes, wide open spaces, cultural experiences, its tumultuous history and historical sites and of course, its wildlife. But did you know that South Africa also boasts around 850 bird species?
For avid birders, there is no shortage of holiday options to choose from that include not just superb accommodation but incredible wildlife and bird watching opportunities too.
Guests at Kariega Game Reserve in Port Elizabeth have the opportunity to spot an incredible 350 different bird species including the impressive martial eagle. Ask about a comprehensive list of their bird species list.
This amazing internationally renowned ‘Big Five’ malaria-free private game reserve is family owned and managed and offers an unforgettable safari experience at great value. A natural extension to Cape Town and the Garden Route, Kariega Game Reserve comprises 10000 hectares of pristine wilderness incorporating the picturesque Kariega and Bushmans rivers, a unique feature.
Kariega’s landscape spans across 5 different eco systems, resulting in extremely high game carrying capacities which results in Kariega’s game viewing and birding experience being unsurpassed in the Eastern Cape.
Kariega’s stunning beauty and rivers offer dramatic views and vistas resulting in unforgettable game drives and a diversity of unique activities including guided bush walks, river cruises, canoeing, fishing and visits to the nearby beaches.
Guests enjoy a choice of 5 uniquely different luxury lodges to suit all needs – ranging from 4 to 5-star – namely: Settlers Drift, River Lodge, Ukhozi Lodge, Main Lodge and The Homestead.
‘For most people who are not “birders”, the concept of birding may seem a bit strange! Bird watching, or birding, as most people call it can be one of the most enjoyable activities while on safari. This is especially true for nature guides and guests who travel on safari often, who enjoy the extra challenge that birding brings with it, compared with general game viewing. The fact that birding can be rather challenging is what makes it appealing, and birders may sometimes find themselves pushing their limits to get a better view of a bird, like ‘freezing’ their position for uncomfortably long periods of time in the hope that the bird comes out to show itself!‘ – Kariega Game Reserve
Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve, located in the Tankwa Karoo just 2 and half hours from Cape Town, is home to an abundance of bird, flora and game species. Not only is it the place to be for stress-free contemplation, but it is also the ideal place for bird-watchers to view the return of bird species that previously inhabited the area. Some of these bird species include the Lesser Flamingos and the African Fish Eagle.
Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve is situated under 2.5 hours from Cape Town, in the vastness of the majestic Tankwa Karoo. With thick wooded Acacia river beds and magnificent golden mountains on the horizon, Inverdoorn provides the ultimate tranquil Big Five safari experience with exceptional birding opportunities.
Safaris on its 10 000 hectare wildlife conservancy are offered on a day trip option or overnight stay with game drives presented by highly qualified rangers in traditional 4 x 4 vehicles.
Four and five star accommodation is offered in the premier Ambassador Collection (suites or chalets) or a variety of Lodge rooms.
Inverdoorn is furthermore acclaimed for its Cheetah Rehabilitation programme and guests have the opportunity to learn more about this renowned project when on safari, with a Cheetah Educational. At night time the Karoo stars feel tangible, while guests gather around the boma fires and pools to share their safari stories.
‘The real joy has been to see, as the eco systems have normalised, species coming back to the area. We have a lot of birding groups coming through to Inverdoorn and while they are with us they always do a trip into the Tankwa Karoo National Park where birders can see arid-area specials such as Burchell’s Courser, Karoo Long-billed Lark and Tractrac Chat.’ – Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve
Three Tree Hill Lodge, in the Northern Drakensberg, offers nature walks as part of their guided experiences offering. Rewarding in both summer and winter months, Three Tree Hill guests are given a bird list of over 250 bird species for use during their time at the lodge.
Against the magnificent backdrop of the Drakensberg Mountains of South Africa, and overlooking the secluded Mfazimnyama Valley of the Spioenkop Game Reserve, lies Three Tree Hill Lodge. This Fair Trade certified lodge, places great emphasis on Sustainable Responsible Tourism and offers spectacular scenery, locally grown farm-style country food with superb hospitality. It is the ideal environment in which to unwind and be rejuvenated.
This intimate, luxury 24 bedded lodge is owner- managed by Simon & Cheryl Blackburn whose passion and enthusiasm for Africa’s wildlife, history and culture is immediately evident when you visit. You are welcomed into their home, and invited to experience the warm hospitality, and relaxed atmosphere in their four-star family-run lodge. A myriad of activities are available from the lodge, which include Anglo-Boer War battlefield tours, horse trails, game walks, hiking, mountain biking and birding.
The lodge has three two-bedroomed family cottages, which offer spectacular views of the surrounding hills and six double cottages suitable for couples and single travellers.
‘Grassland dominates this area, while protea parkland is found higher up on the crests and spurs. This huge protected area of the Drakensberg holds almost all the remaining alpine and sub-alpine vegetation in KwaZulu Natal. The summits are generally rocky with bare patches of shallow soil and rock sheets near the escarpment. The catchment areas range from veld and marshes to intricate streams and river courses. With this incredible diversity of vegetation types, Three Tree Hill is a wonderful place for birding.
Summer months offer a splash of colours, as families such as the whydahs and widows don their breeding plumage. Large flocks of red-billed quelea fill the fields in search of grass seeds. Equally large flock sizes of Amur falcon line the telephone wires, anticipating enough rain to release winged termites. The dry winter months show the aloes in flower, attracting a myriad of nectar and insect feeding birdlife.
Whether you are an armchair birder, or a serious twitcher exploring hills at 5 am, or just enjoying the landscape from the deck of your cottage, Three Tree Hill offers it all.’ – Three Tree Hill Lodge
Mkuze Falls Private Game Reserve in the heart of Zululand in Kwazulu-Natal boasts nearly 430 resident species of birds. Mkuze Falls and its wetlands are a haven for sightings of some of the most beautiful and spectacular birds in Africa including the Secretary Bird.
Mkuze Falls Private Game Reserve is one of only two Private Game Reserves in the region where you can view the ‘Big Five’ as well as nearly 430 species of birds are resident.
Overlooking the Mkuze Waterfall, the lodge features 8 luxurious thatched Chalets and 1 Safari Suite, accommodating guests in utmost comfort and style. All Chalets are built on raised wooden platforms and the spacious veranda of each unit provides fantastic views of the river, the waterfall and the surrounding hills. The Safari Suite is ideal for honeymooners or those who want to experience something a little extra.
Guests are invited to join the open-vehicle safaris with experienced field guides and rangers who also conduct bird, bush and game walks on request. Enjoy two game drives daily in this Private Big Five Reserve. The spa centre is run by a fully qualified massage therapist and beautician and offers the various treatments to help guests unwind and relax in the tranquillity that is Mkuze Falls.
A variety of waders and the palm-nut vulture are regulars at Thonga Beach Lodge where guided bird watching is available.
Credit: Dr George Hughes
Thonga Beach Lodge is set on the pristine shores of the Maputuland Coast, KwaZulu-Natal. This 24 bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to discover one of Africa’s last unspoilt wilderness beaches.
It is a magical place of coastal forests, grasslands, bush, shimmering lakes and exquisite sandy beaches. Its crystal clear, warm waters offer South Africa’s best snorkelling and excellent off-shore SCUBA diving and excellent birding opportunities. Guided birding, scorpion and spider walks and turtle tracking are offered in season.
The 12 thatched bush suites offer either Ocean or Forest Views with Deluxe Ocean Views room sporting private plunge pools. The suites are positioned to afford maximum privacy & minimal environmental impact.
Excellent cuisine is enjoyed al fresco on the dining deck or beach deck overlooking the sea. This is an ideal choice for honeymooners, families, SCUBA divers or anyone who wants to simply relax. A civilized distance from civilization.
‘Bird watching at Thonga Beach Lodge offers the choice of watching sea birds from the beach deck, foraging in the rock pools at low tide or running along the shore chasing the ghost crabs. Take a walk through the coastal dune forest and you’re likely to come across a myriad of forest species. In the grasslands at Lake Sibaya, you’ll be entranced by the beautiful orange throated long-claws, fish eagles and flocks of flamingos.’ – Thonga Beach Lodge
Whether your preference is to call it ‘bird watching’ or ‘birding’, bird enthusiasts are spoilt for choice when it comes to options in South Africa. Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant on email info@thompsonsafrica.com to make a booking.
Africa. It gets under your skin. It speaks to your very soul. Breathtaking landscapes, fascinating ancient cultures, wide savannas dotted with iconic wildlife, vast deserts, palm-fringed beaches…and the chance to experience a safari adventure.
In the recent Travel + Leisure’s annual readers review of travel experiences, the following magnificent properties were ranked as the Top 10 Safari Lodges in Africa.
At Thompsons Africa, we love arranging tailor-made packages….it’s our ability to do so that makes us experts in our field. Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant on email info@thompsonsafrica.com to create a package combining these and other properties for a TOP CLASS SAFARI ADVENTURE.
Michelle Lazarus, Procurement Executive with Thompsons Africa recently travelled to Hluhluwe and Mozambique and came back gushing about the magnificent experience!
Michelle’s first two nights were at Thanda Safari where she spent a night in their Safari Lodge and a second night in their Tented Camp.
‘The accommodation at Safari Lodge is stunning! Each lodge has an outdoor bed, plunge pool and private fireplace. The food was delicious. The staff (both lodge staff and guides) were amazing. What a treat to have the opportunity to experience this wonderful lodge.’
‘The tents are wonderful. They have indoor and outdoor showers, double sinks, overhead variable speed fans and a great king bed.. The tent lacks nothing!’
Thanda Safari is situated in the heart of Zululand offering a Big Five wildlife experience, matched with a sincere commitment to the Zulu Culture and passionate conservation of the environment.
The 9 bush suites at Thanda Safari Lodge each feature a spacious lounge, master bedroom, double-sided fireplace, full bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers and an expansive deck with plunge pool and circular day bed. All 15 luxury canvas tents at Thanda Tented Camp come with a private sun deck and en-suite bathroom and offer an unparalleled closeness to the bush with only a few hours of solar-powered electricity a day. The Jabula (Happiness) Tent features an additional lounge and is perfect for wedding couples, honeymooners or small families. Shared areas include a large rim-flow pool, a spa tent, boma, Hemingway-styled lounge and dining area with authentic African artworks.
Villa iZulu, a 1000m2 luxury Afro-chic homestead, features five beautiful suites, a heated pool, wine cellar, library and viewing deck overlooking a waterhole, all of which make the Villa perfect for friends and family looking for total privacy.
Next stop? Ponta Mamoli, Mozambique for 2 nights at White Pearl Resorts. Michelle was transferred from Huhluwe (Thanda to the Kosi Bay Border) via a 2 hour transfer on a newly tarred road. Undercover parking is available to guests leaving their vehicle at the border (ZAR50 per day and secure). White Pearl Resorts transfer guests from the Kosi Bay Border in a Luxury SUV. They have an excellent relationship with the immigration authorities at the border and assist guests in experiencing a seamless border crossing. If guests are self driving, they should be aware that the gravel road (of about 11 kms) to White Pearl Resorts is in poor condition and should only be done in a 4×4.
Of her nights at White Pearl Resorts, Michelle said it was ‘Heaven on Earth’.
‘The service was absolutely impeccable. The staff were amazing and so friendly. Our room was big and had a gorgeous view of the sea. The bed is huge and so clean and comfortable. What amazed me the most was the attention to detail. From a packed beach bag hanging on the door to flip flops provided for walking around… every kind of tea to little jars with biltong, dried fruit, jellies and nuts provided daily… no detail was overlooked.
Our assigned butler made sure we were taken care of and was always willing to help. Our room had it’s own pool and luxurious deck loungers which offered privacy yet still offered amazing views overlooking the sea.
The food was delicious. This lodge is truly amazing and I HIGHLY recommend it!
Set in the dunes of the untouched shores of southern Mozambique tucked behind Casuarina trees, experience a place so beautiful and so pure, quite unlike any other in all of Mozambique.
Situated on stilts while protecting the fragile eco-systems beneath them are our 22 ocean front suites, each with a plunge pool and outdoor shower over-looking the warm Indian Ocean. Inspired by the rich coastal biodiversity and ocean reefs, our contemporary styled resort offers a laid-back beachside chic feeling while making the most of the incredible views.
With the proximity to the Kruger National Park and the Maputo Special Reserve, a perfect combination of 5 star Bush and Beach packages are available. Paired with exceptional Butler service, White Pearl Resorts earns the reputation of being the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.
‘Combining Thanda Safari with White Pearl Resorts is a perfect pairing offering guests a luxury beach and bush option. Access is easy from Durban and adding a stay at Oyster Box Hotel at the beginning of the package and a night at Polana Serena Hotel at the end will give guests a complete luxury circuit through KwaZulu Natal and Mozambique.’
Being a Durban girl definitely has its advantages! Where else can you enjoy beaches, mountains and game reserves, all within a few hours driving distance of the main city?
I recently travelled to the three star Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge for a two night getaway. Four hours from Durban and across the Free State border, Witsieshoek is located in the Northern Drakensberg, close to the Sentinel car park from which the famous ‘Mont-aux-Sources Hike’ to the source of the Tugela Falls starts. Situated at 2 200m, Witsieshoek looks into the face of the Amphitheatre, and is an ideal destination for people wanting to hike the Drakensberg.
After a leisurely drive, we were met by a lovely gentleman, Nelson, who took us through the check in process and explained the hiking options available to us. We hadn’t planned on doing a hike on the day of arrival but with a few hours of light left and Nelson’s passionate encouragement, we decided to do the easiest of the hike options available – a 1 1/2 to 2 hour hike to view the Mahai Falls.
Being winter in Durban, the water levels are significantly lower than the summer months and the vegetation much drier than normal. It allows for fabulous sweeping views and I loved the shrubby vegetation that reminded me of the fynbos of the Cape.
Winter vegetation
Mahai Falls
View from Mahai Falls
Accommodation at Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge includes chalets, bungalows and a hikers cabin. The units are all newly refurbished with en suite bathrooms and large walk-in showers.
After a successful and relatively easy walk back to the lodge, we settled into our room before joining other guests at the main lodge for dinner. The main building includes a lounge with fireplace and television, a pub and an a la carte restaurant. The food was great and the service attentive.
The following morning we were up early for a breakfast buffet before heading off to the Sentinel car park, our departure point for our hike up the Sentinel and on to the Tugela Falls. The road isn’t in great condition and only recommended in a 4×4 vehicle but transfers to the trailhead at the car park are available from the lodge (as well as mountain guides for those who feel more comfortable with a guide).
I feel at this point that I should mention that besides my short and easy ‘hike’ the day before, this would be my first ever ‘proper’ hike. Also that the hike is commonly referred to as ‘The Chain Ladders Hike’… Ironically I didn’t give this as much thought as I probably SHOULD have!
We set off at 08h00am and began our ascent up the Sentinel. The path is in good condition and the direction of the path clear. It is however steep and made up of a series of zig zags that ascend the northern slopes towards the Witches and accounts for most of the route’s 472m altitude gain. En-route we were rewarded with the most magnificent views of the Maluti mountains and Witsieshoek plateau. We even passed through a troop of baboon. Those guys can CLIMB! We spotted a tiny new born baby baboon but they were not keen for us to get any pics of the little guy (or girl).
Its around a two and half to three hour hike before you reach the base of the Sentinel and the chain ladders. Like I mentioned earlier, I probably should have given more thought to the hikes alternate name… I don’t know what I was expecting but it certainly wasn’t this!
Reading afterwards, I learned that the two sets of ladders total around 60m, the first around 40m in height and the second 20m in height. Wow. I am not a fan of heights so I won’t lie, it took a bit of self ‘pep talking’ before I made the decision to ascend. I had come so far and knew that the reward would be worth the effort!
Slow and steady and definitely don’t look down! But then we were at the top… What spectacular views! And definitely a little bit of pride that I’d made it up!
From the top of the chain ladders
From here the terrain flattens out which was great because by this time, I was really battling to catch my breath! Its a further 45 minutes walking until you reach the edge of the Amphitheatre and the top of the Tugela Falls.
The Tugela Falls is the world’s second highest waterfall, and the highest in Africa, falling a distance of 948m to Royal Natal National Park and the Tugela valley below. As with the little rivers on the walk across the plateau, which we were surprised to see were frozen, so too was the top of the falls.
Frozen riversTop of the Tugela Falls…frozen
The views are quite literally breathtaking and we were lucky to see three Cape Vultures but unfortunately not the endangered Bearded Vulture whose breeding site is in the Maloti-Drakensberg mountains.
After enjoying a light lunch on what felt like the top of the world, it was time to head back down! I had been quite relieved during the walk to know that our descent would be downhill all the way but being the novice hiker I am, I was surprised to find that although breathing was easier, my legs were feeling VERY wobbly by the time we got to the bottom some 3 hours later. And as for descending the ladders… don’t overthink it and do it the same way you do it on the way up… sloooooowwww and steady!
In total the hike took 7 hours and was around 18kms in distance. We headed back to the lodge, freshened up and then made our way to the restaurant pub for a celebratory drink and dinner in the restaurant. A very casual and relaxed evening.
After a great nights sleep, which I feel may have had something to do with the events of the day but could also be attributed to the comfy, heated king size bed, we checked out and began making our way back to Durban.
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge is fabulously located for keen hikers and is the closest lodge for those specifically wanting to do the Sentinel Hike. To note however, this hike requires a fair to good level of fitness. Always go prepared with a route map and water and remember that the weather in the Drakensberg changes quickly. Plan for any weather eventuality!
I think my next trip may need to include more beach or bush and a little less mountain….at least until I’ve increased my fitness level! But I will definitely be back… A fabulous, memorable experience! – Viki Haasbroek – Thompsons Africa Marketing Manager
** Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge is a TFPD property. Transfrontier Parks Destinations develop and manage world-class, community-owned tourist destinations that benefit the local communities. Our tourist destinations and activities in Southern Africa’s Transfrontier Peace Parks and Limpopo Province are environmentally sustainable and ecologically sound.
Contact a Thompsons Africa consultant on email info@thompsonsafrica.com for more information about Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge or assistance with putting together a mountain experience package.
Meet Bra Zeb (short for Zebulon)…! We’re in Judah Square, Knysna where our guide Bra Zeb greets us with a fist bump and an ‘Irie’ (used by Rastafarians as a friendly greeting). Bra Zeb, an animated man with 20 year old dreadlocks, will teach us about the origins of Judah Square, home to one of the largest Rastafarian communities in South Africa.
Standing in front of the themed murals depicting the Lion of Zion, King Haile Selassie and other icons of the Rastafari movement, Bra Zeb introduces us to the history, beliefs and lifestyle choices of his tight-knit community and Rastafarianism in general.
Following this introduction we head across the road to a yard where the Tabernacle of Judah Square stands. Here Zeb delves a little further into detail. Though many of the residents of Judah Square work in town, the community has erected a creche run by volunteers, developed home-stay bed and breakfasts and have also built a community centre.
We head down to the gift shop at the entrance to look at the arts and crafts items, T-Shirts, posters, selection of musical paraphernalia and range of natural remedies on sale before bidding Bra Zeb farewell.
We make our way back to the cul de sac at the top of the hill in the Rastafarian village where we meet Mr. Mau Mau and his wife. Here we will enjoy a high tea with a selection of home-baked cakes and different types of hot beverages.
Wrap up the experience listening to some reggae tunes playing in the background while Mr. Mau Mau and his wife host us.
This 3 hour tour, the One Love Kynsna Tour, exposing the power of collectivism and the spirit of people working together, departs daily at 10h00am and 13h00pm from the Knysna Tourism Office.
View more details and rates or contact a Thompsons Africa consultant on info@thompsonsafrica.com to make a booking.
Set in the dunes of the untouched shores of southern Mozambique tucked behind Casuarina trees, experience a place so beautiful and so pure, quite unlike any other in all of Mozambique.
With the proximity to the Kruger National Park and the Maputo Special Reserve, a perfect combination of 5 star Bush and Beach packages are available. Paired with exceptional Butler service, White Pearl Resorts earns the reputation of being the Pearl of the Indian Ocean.
We head down to the gift shop at the entrance to look at the arts and crafts items, T-Shirts, posters, selection of musical paraphernalia and range of natural remedies on sale before bidding Bra Zeb farewell.
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