InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport, Johannesburg

Day Itinerary

Upon arrival at Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport, you will be met in the arrival claims, by a representative of InterContinental OR Tambo Hotel. The hotel representative will be wearing a grey uniform, holding an iPad displaying "Intercontinental Hotel" not your name. The hotel does not display signage with guests' names to ensure the guest's privacy.

Once met at arrivals, the porter collects your luggage and pushes the trolley while escorting you from the International Arrivals Hall across the road to the hotel which is 68m away from the International Arrivals Hall.

Check-in at the hotel and spend the evening at your leisure. (Check in begins from 1500 hrs)

Johannesburg

Johannesburg is one of Africa’s largest and most vibrant cities. It is the economic capital of Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa. This bustling city offers a wide range of activities, attractions and plenty to do in and around the city including nearby Pretoria. Downtown is a multi-cultural mixture of traditional medicine shops, Chinese restaurants, taxi ranks and ultra-modern skyscrapers. There are excellent museums, art galleries and organised tours of historical and political interest. The shopping is Southern Africa’s best and the many restaurants cater for all tastes. The nearby township of Soweto is Johannesburg’s most popular tourist attraction.

Located only a short walk away from the arrival's hall of Johannesburg’s largest international airport, the award- winning InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport, South Africa’s only luxury airport hotel, offers travelers a luxurious and enjoyable stay upon arrival.

The hotel’s 138 rooms are impeccably appointed, from the Classic rooms and Junior Suites to the two luxurious Presidential Suites. Other amenities at Johannesburg’s leading airport hotel include the Camelot Spa, an indoor heated swimming pool, and a uniquely African dining experience at the hotel’s Quills Restaurant. A number of diverse and beautiful pieces of African Art can be found throughout the hotel - each piece is a story woven into the rich and warm African tapestry.

Overnight in InterContinental Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Airport

Meals: None

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve

Day Itinerary

After breakfast at leisure & check out, you will be met in the arrival hall at 11:00 by a hotel representative who will escort you to Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport for your flight departing for Skukuza Airport for your internal flight.

Upon arrival at Skukuza Airport, you will be met in the arrival hall by a local representative holding a welcome board displaying your last name, for easy identification and will transfer you to Sabi Earth Lodge, your safari home for the next 3 days. Upon check-in at the lodge, a representative will discuss the daily program meals and activities.

Your stay at Sabi Earth Lodge includes:

Luxurious Accommodation, All meals and beverages (including premium wines, spirits, and liqueurs, but excluding French Champagne) Twice-daily game drives in open game-viewing vehicles, walking safaris (accompanied by experienced guides and trackers) Return road transfers between Skukuza Airport & Sabi Earth Lodge

WiFi access where applicable.

Sabi Sand Nature Reserve

Adjacent to the Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve is a private premier viewing destination. It was the first-ever private nature reserve established in South Africa. The landscape features 65 000 hectares of savannah-covered land interspersed with watering holes, dry river beds, Lowveld woodlands, and the perennial Sabi and Sand rivers. This spectacular reserve offers exceptional game viewing opportunities with frequent sightings of the renowned Big Five as well as cheetah, zebra, giraffe, and a variety of antelope. Visitors can enjoy excellent wildlife viewing, dining under the stars, guided bush walks and enjoying a stay in some of South Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges.

Overnight: Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge   

Sculpted deep into the natural landscape, Earth Lodge takes its cue from nature – textures, colours, light, space all reflecting the lodge’s surrounding bushveld. The lodge has 12 ultra-luxurious suites and the newly renovated Amber Villa, each with private plunge pools, en-suite glass fronted bathroom, outdoor shower and specially commissioned furnishing. The lodge also features a wine cellar, spa, gym, boma, library and fire pit.

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve

Day Itinerary

After breakfast at leisure & check out, you will be met in the arrival hall at 11:00 by a hotel representative who will escort you to Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport for your flight departing for Skukuza Airport for your internal flight.

Upon arrival at Skukuza Airport, you will be met in the arrival hall by a local representative holding a welcome board displaying your last name, for easy identification and will transfer you to Sabi Earth Lodge, your safari home for the next 3 days. Upon check-in at the lodge, a representative will discuss the daily program meals and activities

Your stay at Sabi Earth Lodge includes:

Luxurious Accommodation, All meals and beverages (including premium wines, spirits, and liqueurs, but excluding French Champagne) Twice-daily game drives in open game-viewing vehicles, walking safaris (accompanied by experienced guides and trackers) Return road transfers between Skukuza Airport & Sabi Earth Lodge

WiFi access where applicable

Sabi Sand Nature Reserve

Adjacent to the Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve is a private premier viewing destination. It was the first-ever private nature reserve established in South Africa. The landscape features 65 000 hectares of savannah-covered land interspersed with watering holes, dry river beds, Lowveld woodlands, and the perennial Sabi and Sand rivers. This spectacular reserve offers exceptional game viewing opportunities with frequent sightings of the renowned Big Five as well as cheetah, zebra, giraffe, and a variety of antelope. Visitors can enjoy excellent wildlife viewing, dining under the stars, guided bush walks and enjoying a stay in some of South Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges.

Overnight: Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge      

Sculpted deep into the natural landscape, Earth Lodge takes its cue from nature – textures, colours, light, space all reflecting the lodge’s surrounding bushveld. The lodge has 12 ultra-luxurious suites and the newly renovated Amber Villa, each with private plunge pools, en-suite glass fronted bathroom, outdoor shower and specially commissioned furnishing. The lodge also features a wine cellar, spa, gym, boma, library and fire pit.

Overnight in Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge     

Meals: Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities

Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge, Sabi Sand Nature Reserve

Day Itinerary

After breakfast at leisure & check out, you will be met in the arrival hall at 11:00 by a hotel representative who will escort you to Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport for your flight departing for Skukuza Airport for your internal flight.

Upon arrival at Skukuza Airport, you will be met in the arrival hall by a local representative holding a welcome board displaying your last name, for easy identification and will transfer you to Sabi Earth Lodge, your safari home for the next 3 days. Upon check-in at the lodge, a representative will discuss the daily program meals and activities

Your stay at Sabi Earth Lodge includes:

Luxurious Accommodation, All meals and beverages (including premium wines, spirits, and liqueurs, but excluding French Champagne) Twice-daily game drives in open game-viewing vehicles, walking safaris (accompanied by experienced guides and trackers) Return road transfers between Skukuza Airport & Sabi Earth Lodge

WiFi access where applicable

Sabi Sand Nature Reserve

Adjacent to the Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Nature Reserve is a private premier viewing destination. It was the first-ever private nature reserve established in South Africa. The landscape features 65 000 hectares of savannah-covered land interspersed with watering holes, dry river beds, Lowveld woodlands, and the perennial Sabi and Sand rivers. This spectacular reserve offers exceptional game viewing opportunities with frequent sightings of the renowned Big Five as well as cheetah, zebra, giraffe, and a variety of antelope. Visitors can enjoy excellent wildlife viewing, dining under the stars, guided bush walks and enjoying a stay in some of South Africa’s most luxurious safari lodges.

Overnight: Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge      

Sculpted deep into the natural landscape, Earth Lodge takes its cue from nature – textures, colours, light, space all reflecting the lodge’s surrounding bushveld. The lodge has 12 ultra-luxurious suites and the newly renovated Amber Villa, each with private plunge pools, en-suite glass fronted bathroom, outdoor shower and specially commissioned furnishing. The lodge also features a wine cellar, spa, gym, boma, library and fire pit.

Overnight in Sabi Sabi Earth Lodge     

Meals: Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Forest Lodge, Whale Coast

Day Itinerary

After breakfast and check out, you will be met at 09:00 in the lodge reception by a local representative who will transfer you to Skukuza Airport for your flight departing for Cape Town International Airport.

Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be met in the arrival hall by your local guide holding a welcome board displaying your last name, for easy identification, and will transfer you to Grootbos Forest Lodge

Upon check-in at the lodge, a representative will discuss the daily program meals and activities. A list of your requested activities has been noted and the lodge will try their best to fit all of them in the 2 days. *All activities are weather-permitting

Your stay at Grootbos Forest Lodge includes:

• Luxury accommodation in freestanding suites 
• Welcome drink served upon arrival
• Water, soft drinks, tea and coffee, minibar Fresh fruit daily in-suite *no banana 
• Breakfast with a full English breakfast menu Light lunch
• 5-course dinner *
• Horse riding for non- and experienced riders through the reserve (please note that the weight limit is 90kg/198lbs per person/ children under the age of 12 are only allowed on guided pony rides) *
• Botanical Fynbos Hike on the Reserve Milkwood Forest Walk
• 4x4 Flower Safari *
• Coastal drive with seasonal land-based whale watching (whale watching especially during July – December) Beach Picnics
• Ancient Klipgat Cave and Walker Bay Nature Reserve beach excursion Progressive Tourism Tour
• Mountain Biking on the Reserve
• Bird-watching; Experience a great variety of bird species on the reserve Various maps of the reserve and the area for self-guided walks Transfers to/from all activities for included activities

Whale Coast

The Whale Coast is a rugged stretch of South African coastline, snaking along the Atlantic Ocean and encompassing the towns of Kleinmond, Hermanus, Stanford, and Gansbaai. The route is backed by fynbos-covered mountains and includes farms, rivers, caves, and valleys. Between June and October, and especially over August, September, and October, the humpback or southern right whales that come here to mate and give birth can be seen frolicking offshore. The Whale Festival, held annually in September in Hermanus, is a special event featuring live music, markets, and much more. Throughout the year, explore the historic villages, and enjoy bird watching, wine tasting, paragliding, fat bike rides, river rafting, and game viewing, mountain biking, and golfing. Don’t miss a visit to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary in Gansbaai.

Horse Riding on the Reserve

There’s something special about seeing a place on horseback. Take a slow trot as you appreciate the views or ride down the sweeping sand dunes, the fresh air filling your lungs and exhilaration pumping through your veins.

Horse riding at Grootbos is suitable for anyone, whether you’re a complete novice or a more experienced rider. Go for a relaxed ride through the fynbos or ride one of our special horses that are specifically trained for the beach. Our 22 horses at the Grootbos stables are well exercised and expertly trained, while all of our guides have years of experience in dealing with these noble animals.

Land-based Whale Watching (June- December)

The Southern Right whales visit Walker Bay each year and being witness to them in action whilst they breach and blow is a very special experience to observe. These peaceful giants of the deep come to Walker Bay to mate and calf in the sanctuary of the Bay. The Walker Bay rocky outcrops offer close viewing points from elevated positions. The Grootbos guides know all the best spots and this guided experience is an experience of a lifetime.

4x4 Flower Safari

Keep still, listen intently and you’ll be amazed at the things you learn on a botanical safari. With the richest temperate flora in the world and six completely new species never discovered by science before, your time at Grootbos will mean that you’ll never look at plants and flowers in quite the same way again.

The 800 recorded plant species in our 2500 hectares of pristine wilderness will bring the fascinating story of fynbos and forest to life as you touch, smell and see the natural miracles that surround you. Learn how a sunbird’s beak fits perfectly into a flower, why the honey our bees produce is completely unique and how important ravaging fires are for bringing forth new life.

Beach Excursion

As a guest at Grootbos, there are so many different ways to enjoy the beach. You can take a long, relaxing walk on a solitary shore; laze in the sun on the luxurious white sand; or explore the unique coastal ecosystem while looking out for frolicking whales.

The guides know exactly where to take you for the best swimming, tanning, walking, whale watching, angling and several other oceanic experiences on offer. We’ll transport you to and from the beach and provide you with a picnic lunch and all the beach accessories you need to enjoy your day in the sun.

Grootbos also offers guided beach tours where you can learn about the unique intertidal ecosystem; the abundant marine life; the coastal vegetation; and the geological forces that gave this coast its dramatic form

Bird Watching

A Bird's eyeview of Birding at Grootbos

Birding is akin to stargazing. On cloudless days, you see a myriad of these jewels flickering and floating in the sky, and once you know where and what to look for, you are transfixed by the ethereal pattern and order in their endless motion. The Grootbos reserve and surrounding areas are a magnet to a wide variety of rare and endemic bird species feeding and breeding in the rich and diverse habitats. You know birding is not for the birds when you see how the Malachite Sunbird, with its bright green iridescent plumage, compete for attention with the flowering aloes and proteas. Grootbos is a birder friendly establishment endorsed by Birdlife SA. The knowledgeable guides are geared to give bird watchers of all levels a winged overview of these magnificent creatures that enliven our skies and flora with their beauty and procreative activities.

Let's face it, the dazzling tapestry of fynbos wildflowers on Grootbos is not meant to attract tourists - the colourful displays of petals are nature's magic to lure birds and other pollinators to their nectar in exchange for spreading their pollen.

The beaks of the conspicuous endemic Orange-breasted Sunbird and the Southern Double-collared Sunbird are tailor-made for sipping the sweet stuff from the floral tubes of the various Erica species. You cannot miss the male Cape Sugarbird, with its ridiculously long tail (almost 70% of its total length), feeding on the nectar of Protea species. The impressive tail is solely a decorative testimony to manhood - the longer, the better! They whip their tails to attract females and ward off rivals.

In breeding season (September to April) Grootbos guests will encounter a magnitude of feisty and friendly fellows sticking together albeit they are not of the same feather. The diverse habitats - from fynbos, Milkwood and Afromontane forests to riverine scrub and mountain slopes - accommodate at least 120 different bird species, of which 30% are endemic or near endemic to Southern Africa. These include specials such as the Knysna Woodpecker, Cape Clapper-lark and the Southern Tchagra. Flagship raptors of the area are the majestic Black Harrier, Jackal Buzzard, Forest Buzzard and African Fish-Eagle. The nearby agricultural fields are home to Blue Cranes, the Agulhas Long-billed Lark and the Denham’s Bustard.

Coastal Birding Tours: Grootbos, in partnership with Dyer Island Cruises, also takes guests on a "game viewing" cruise to Dyer Island, where endemics such as the African Black Oystercatcher, Hartlaub’s Gull, Crowned-, Cape- and Bank Cormorant, African Penguin as well as the Cape Gannet flourish. Pelagic species such as the Shy Albatross, Sooty Shearwater and Giant Petrels are also seen from time to time.

Klipgat Cave - an echo of early man - 

The Klipgat Cave outside De Kelders evokes vivid images of pre-historic times when modern man lived haply in symbiotic harmony with nature off the bounty of land and sea when the coastline was still kilometres away. This historical site in the Walker Bay was home to Middle Stone Age peoples some 70 000 to 80 000 years ago when large antelope such as black wildebeest and the extinct “blaauwbok” still abounded in the bay where dolphins, seals and whales now flourish.

Archaeological findings indicate that these primitive folks mainly lived off plants and smaller animals such as dune mole rats, tortoises and hares. They hunted steenbok and eland, while seabirds, shellfish and seals also formed an important part of their diet.

Dubbed Klipgat Cave (stone with a hole) after the remarkable window-like openings in the limestone rock formations that yield spectacular views of the bay and sea, the site is one of the most important cultural assets in the Western Cape. Innumerable stories of the perils and pleasures of yesteryear’s peoples unfold as layer upon layer of deposits reveal fascinating secrets of the tides, temperatures and living conditions of those early times. Later Stone Age pastoralists, believed to be the Khoekhoen/Khoikhoi, already kept sheep, and probably even cattle and dogs, in this area as early as 2 000 years ago.

They chiselled tools such as “needles” and “spatulas” out of bone to create ornaments, shell beads and pendants. Ostrich eggs were fashioned into water flasks, and tortoise shells served as bowls. These artefacts and bone samples are on display in the Cape Town Museum.

Unfortunately, the bulk of tell-tale everyday details of the loves and losses of man’s early ancestors is forever buried in the crags and crevices of this early home. Around 1713, a devastating smallpox epidemic claimed the lives of the entire local human population. The Klipgat Cave is of World Heritage significance and managed by Cape Nature Conservation.

Walks and Hikes

Enjoy an entrancing stroll through our Milkwood forest or a more revitalising hike up our fynbos-clad mountains, as you begin to understand what makes Grootbos quite so special. From a sunbird sipping from a flower to an ocean vista that leaves you breathless, surprises await you around every corner.  Trails are all well marked and you can choose between self-guided walks or guided walks, to learn more about these fascinating and secretive eco-systems. Gaze into the petals of a King Protea, breathe in the blackcurrant scent of buchu or simply listen to the exquisite silence that surrounds you.

Spa Treatments

For those who just want to relax we offer an array of spa treatments. It is time to tip-toe into a slower world where the mind can drift away on the vapors of luxurious scents, such as sandalwood, arnica and buchu, while the body melts under the soothing touch of our fully qualified beauty therapist. Pampering takes place in the comfort of your own suite. For the tired body, a therapeutic full body massage is a definite must, leaving you in a state of absolute calmness. For the weary feet, reflexology, including a footbath, will most certainly do the trick. Manicures, pedicures, facials and a host of other treatments are available on request in our Bloom Beauty Salon or in the privacy of the suites at Grootbos.

Lady Stanford River Cruise

Hop aboard the Lady Stanford river boat for a iconic and tranquil river cruise that winds its way gently along the picturesque Klein River, toward the Hermanus lagoon. Spend time on the open upper and lower decks of this modern eco-friendly river boat with its quiet, four-stroke boat engines, as you watch a kaleidoscope of natural colour go by.

No expense has been spared when it comes to comfort and luxury on board this vessel that most definitely stands out from the rest. A qualified skipper and experienced interactive guide, who intimately knows the river and all it has to offer, will ensure this journey is a memorable one. The Klein River features more than a hundred bird species which include majestic fish eagles, a flamboyance of pink flamingos and the ever spectacular, blue crane. Keep an eye out for otters, bontebok and horses grazing on the fertile river banks, as you make your way toward the lagoon. Lady Stanford runs daily trips for individual passengers as well as being available exclusively for private functions. The boat can comfortably accommodate 26 passengers.

The River Cruise is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Living the Future Tour

Take a tour with heart as you discover how the entire Grootbos experience has been designed around benefitting the community and environment around you. Learn and connect as you witness how our various projects are changing lives and conserving this protected wilderness.

What is progressive tourism? It’s a term we coined to explain a new way of living that is at the heart of the entire Grootbos experience. It’s about every action we take benefitting someone else or having a positive impact on the environment. From the freshly grown tomatoes you eat at lunch, to the recycled candles in your room, to the earrings you buy at the gift shop – we’re constantly seeking out new ways to create sustainable livelihoods for the people who call this unique area home.

Fat Biking

This is the ultimate ride from Grootbos Nature Reserve down the mountain to the top of the Sand Dunes. The trail to the dunes is special, running on a narrow sandy horse trail through the Fynbos. When reaching the dunes we will make our way up and across to reach a fantastic downhill section where we will pick up speed before reaching the top of our first vertical dune face. After a briefing on how to ride down the dune we down the face but for those just wanting an easy ride you can go around the side where it is an easy slope. The dune face may feel impossible and dangerous to do but the ride is in fact very controlled and the sand will slow the bike down.

What your mind tells you is impossible will in fact be very enjoyable and easy. I will be at the bottom of the dunes videoing your challenges so remember to smile. I will also teach you how to do slalom like a skiier on a snow ski slope. This is excellent fun on a bike and not too difficult to achieve. After the dunes we will pick up a 4x4 trail down to the beach. 

From there we will head back up to the car park but for those who are already tired I can bring the 4x4 down to the rocks so you do not have to ride up.

Fat Biking is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate

Red Indigo at Forest Lodge

Experience the finest contemporary cuisine in a world-class setting surrounded by exquisite natural beauty. Take in the magnificent panoramic views of Walker Bay and the mountainous planes of pristine fynbos while friendly staff tend to your every culinary desire. And the best part... it's all included in your board.

Savour delectable dishes prepared with organic ingredients produced by our very own Growing the Future food production and social upliftment project.

Delight in the seafood bounty of Walker Bay, enjoy extra-matured beef fillet grilled to perfection and taste award winning wines from local cellars that reflect the essence of the landscape and its people.

Overnight: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Forest Lodge

Nestled in an ancient Milkwood forest in the peaceful Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, surrounded by rolling hills of fynbos and majestic mountains, The Forest Lodge features 16 freestanding luxury suites beneath an ancient forest canopy. Each of the suites is stylishly furnished with canopy beds, spacious en-suite bathrooms, and separate lounges with cosy fireplaces and private wooden decks with spectacular panoramic views. The lodge features a variety of elegant dining venues, a bar, lounge, curio shop and conference centre. Spacious wooden decks and an infinity pool beckon you to relax and unwind. As the evening descends, cosy fireplaces and subtle lighting create a warm, romantic atmosphere for the perfect dining experience.

Overnight in Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Forest Lodge

Meals: Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Forest Lodge, Whale Coast

Day Itinerary

After breakfast and check out, you will be met at 09:00 in the lodge reception by a local representative who will transfer you to Skukuza Airport for your flight departing for Cape Town International Airport.

Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be met in the arrival hall by your local guide holding a welcome board displaying your last name, for easy identification, and will transfer you to Grootbos Forest Lodge

Upon check-in at the lodge, a representative will discuss the daily program meals and activities. A list of your requested activities has been noted and the lodge will try their best to fit all of them in the 2 days. *All activities are weather-permitting

Your stay at Grootbos Forest Lodge includes:

• Luxury accommodation in freestanding suites 
• Welcome drink served upon arrival
• Water, soft drinks, tea and coffee, minibar Fresh fruit daily in-suite *no banana 
• Breakfast with a full English breakfast menu Light lunch
• 5-course dinner *
• Horse riding for non- and experienced riders through the reserve (please note that the weight limit is 90kg/198lbs per person/ children under the age of 12 are only allowed on guided pony rides) *
• Botanical Fynbos Hike on the Reserve Milkwood Forest Walk
• 4x4 Flower Safari *
• Coastal drive with seasonal land-based whale watching (whale watching especially during July – December) Beach Picnics
• Ancient Klipgat Cave and Walker Bay Nature Reserve beach excursion Progressive Tourism Tour
• Mountain Biking on the Reserve
• Bird-watching; Experience a great variety of bird species on the reserve Various maps of the reserve and the area for self-guided walks Transfers to/from all activities for included activities

Whale Coast

The Whale Coast is a rugged stretch of South African coastline, snaking along the Atlantic Ocean and encompassing the towns of Kleinmond, Hermanus, Stanford, and Gansbaai. The route is backed by fynbos-covered mountains and includes farms, rivers, caves, and valleys. Between June and October, and especially over August, September, and October, the humpback or southern right whales that come here to mate and give birth can be seen frolicking offshore. The Whale Festival, held annually in September in Hermanus, is a special event featuring live music, markets, and much more. Throughout the year, explore the historic villages, and enjoy bird watching, wine tasting, paragliding, fat bike rides, river rafting, and game viewing, mountain biking, and golfing. Don’t miss a visit to the African Penguin and Seabird Sanctuary in Gansbaai.

Horse Riding on the Reserve

There’s something special about seeing a place on horseback. Take a slow trot as you appreciate the views or ride down the sweeping sand dunes, the fresh air filling your lungs and exhilaration pumping through your veins.

Horse riding at Grootbos is suitable for anyone, whether you’re a complete novice or a more experienced rider. Go for a relaxed ride through the fynbos or ride one of our special horses that are specifically trained for the beach. Our 22 horses at the Grootbos stables are well exercised and expertly trained, while all of our guides have years of experience in dealing with these noble animals.

Land-based Whale Watching (June- December)

The Southern Right whales visit Walker Bay each year and being witness to them in action whilst they breach and blow is a very special experience to observe. These peaceful giants of the deep come to Walker Bay to mate and calf in the sanctuary of the Bay. The Walker Bay rocky outcrops offer close viewing points from elevated positions. The Grootbos guides know all the best spots and this guided experience is an experience of a lifetime.

4x4 Flower Safari

Keep still, listen intently and you’ll be amazed at the things you learn on a botanical safari. With the richest temperate flora in the world and six completely new species never discovered by science before, your time at Grootbos will mean that you’ll never look at plants and flowers in quite the same way again.

The 800 recorded plant species in our 2500 hectares of pristine wilderness will bring the fascinating story of fynbos and forest to life as you touch, smell and see the natural miracles that surround you. Learn how a sunbird’s beak fits perfectly into a flower, why the honey our bees produce is completely unique and how important ravaging fires are for bringing forth new life.

Beach Excursion

As a guest at Grootbos, there are so many different ways to enjoy the beach. You can take a long, relaxing walk on a solitary shore; laze in the sun on the luxurious white sand; or explore the unique coastal ecosystem while looking out for frolicking whales.

The guides know exactly where to take you for the best swimming, tanning, walking, whale watching, angling and several other oceanic experiences on offer. We’ll transport you to and from the beach and provide you with a picnic lunch and all the beach accessories you need to enjoy your day in the sun.

Grootbos also offers guided beach tours where you can learn about the unique intertidal ecosystem; the abundant marine life; the coastal vegetation; and the geological forces that gave this coast its dramatic form

Bird Watching

A Bird's eyeview of Birding at Grootbos

Birding is akin to stargazing. On cloudless days, you see a myriad of these jewels flickering and floating in the sky, and once you know where and what to look for, you are transfixed by the ethereal pattern and order in their endless motion. The Grootbos reserve and surrounding areas are a magnet to a wide variety of rare and endemic bird species feeding and breeding in the rich and diverse habitats. You know birding is not for the birds when you see how the Malachite Sunbird, with its bright green iridescent plumage, compete for attention with the flowering aloes and proteas. Grootbos is a birder friendly establishment endorsed by Birdlife SA. The knowledgeable guides are geared to give bird watchers of all levels a winged overview of these magnificent creatures that enliven our skies and flora with their beauty and procreative activities.

Let's face it, the dazzling tapestry of fynbos wildflowers on Grootbos is not meant to attract tourists - the colourful displays of petals are nature's magic to lure birds and other pollinators to their nectar in exchange for spreading their pollen.

The beaks of the conspicuous endemic Orange-breasted Sunbird and the Southern Double-collared Sunbird are tailor-made for sipping the sweet stuff from the floral tubes of the various Erica species. You cannot miss the male Cape Sugarbird, with its ridiculously long tail (almost 70% of its total length), feeding on the nectar of Protea species. The impressive tail is solely a decorative testimony to manhood - the longer, the better! They whip their tails to attract females and ward off rivals.

In breeding season (September to April) Grootbos guests will encounter a magnitude of feisty and friendly fellows sticking together albeit they are not of the same feather. The diverse habitats - from fynbos, Milkwood and Afromontane forests to riverine scrub and mountain slopes - accommodate at least 120 different bird species, of which 30% are endemic or near endemic to Southern Africa. These include specials such as the Knysna Woodpecker, Cape Clapper-lark and the Southern Tchagra. Flagship raptors of the area are the majestic Black Harrier, Jackal Buzzard, Forest Buzzard and African Fish-Eagle. The nearby agricultural fields are home to Blue Cranes, the Agulhas Long-billed Lark and the Denham’s Bustard.

Coastal Birding Tours: Grootbos, in partnership with Dyer Island Cruises, also takes guests on a "game viewing" cruise to Dyer Island, where endemics such as the African Black Oystercatcher, Hartlaub’s Gull, Crowned-, Cape- and Bank Cormorant, African Penguin as well as the Cape Gannet flourish. Pelagic species such as the Shy Albatross, Sooty Shearwater and Giant Petrels are also seen from time to time.

Klipgat Cave - an echo of early man - 

The Klipgat Cave outside De Kelders evokes vivid images of pre-historic times when modern man lived haply in symbiotic harmony with nature off the bounty of land and sea when the coastline was still kilometres away. This historical site in the Walker Bay was home to Middle Stone Age peoples some 70 000 to 80 000 years ago when large antelope such as black wildebeest and the extinct “blaauwbok” still abounded in the bay where dolphins, seals and whales now flourish.

Archaeological findings indicate that these primitive folks mainly lived off plants and smaller animals such as dune mole rats, tortoises and hares. They hunted steenbok and eland, while seabirds, shellfish and seals also formed an important part of their diet.

Dubbed Klipgat Cave (stone with a hole) after the remarkable window-like openings in the limestone rock formations that yield spectacular views of the bay and sea, the site is one of the most important cultural assets in the Western Cape. Innumerable stories of the perils and pleasures of yesteryear’s peoples unfold as layer upon layer of deposits reveal fascinating secrets of the tides, temperatures and living conditions of those early times. Later Stone Age pastoralists, believed to be the Khoekhoen/Khoikhoi, already kept sheep, and probably even cattle and dogs, in this area as early as 2 000 years ago.

They chiselled tools such as “needles” and “spatulas” out of bone to create ornaments, shell beads and pendants. Ostrich eggs were fashioned into water flasks, and tortoise shells served as bowls. These artefacts and bone samples are on display in the Cape Town Museum.

Unfortunately, the bulk of tell-tale everyday details of the loves and losses of man’s early ancestors is forever buried in the crags and crevices of this early home. Around 1713, a devastating smallpox epidemic claimed the lives of the entire local human population. The Klipgat Cave is of World Heritage significance and managed by Cape Nature Conservation.

Walks and Hikes

Enjoy an entrancing stroll through our Milkwood forest or a more revitalising hike up our fynbos-clad mountains, as you begin to understand what makes Grootbos quite so special. From a sunbird sipping from a flower to an ocean vista that leaves you breathless, surprises await you around every corner.  Trails are all well marked and you can choose between self-guided walks or guided walks, to learn more about these fascinating and secretive eco-systems. Gaze into the petals of a King Protea, breathe in the blackcurrant scent of buchu or simply listen to the exquisite silence that surrounds you.

Spa Treatments

For those who just want to relax we offer an array of spa treatments. It is time to tip-toe into a slower world where the mind can drift away on the vapors of luxurious scents, such as sandalwood, arnica and buchu, while the body melts under the soothing touch of our fully qualified beauty therapist. Pampering takes place in the comfort of your own suite. For the tired body, a therapeutic full body massage is a definite must, leaving you in a state of absolute calmness. For the weary feet, reflexology, including a footbath, will most certainly do the trick. Manicures, pedicures, facials and a host of other treatments are available on request in our Bloom Beauty Salon or in the privacy of the suites at Grootbos.

Lady Stanford River Cruise

Hop aboard the Lady Stanford river boat for a iconic and tranquil river cruise that winds its way gently along the picturesque Klein River, toward the Hermanus lagoon. Spend time on the open upper and lower decks of this modern eco-friendly river boat with its quiet, four-stroke boat engines, as you watch a kaleidoscope of natural colour go by.

No expense has been spared when it comes to comfort and luxury on board this vessel that most definitely stands out from the rest. A qualified skipper and experienced interactive guide, who intimately knows the river and all it has to offer, will ensure this journey is a memorable one. The Klein River features more than a hundred bird species which include majestic fish eagles, a flamboyance of pink flamingos and the ever spectacular, blue crane. Keep an eye out for otters, bontebok and horses grazing on the fertile river banks, as you make your way toward the lagoon. Lady Stanford runs daily trips for individual passengers as well as being available exclusively for private functions. The boat can comfortably accommodate 26 passengers.

The River Cruise is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Living the Future Tour

Take a tour with heart as you discover how the entire Grootbos experience has been designed around benefitting the community and environment around you. Learn and connect as you witness how our various projects are changing lives and conserving this protected wilderness.

What is progressive tourism? It’s a term we coined to explain a new way of living that is at the heart of the entire Grootbos experience. It’s about every action we take benefitting someone else or having a positive impact on the environment. From the freshly grown tomatoes you eat at lunch, to the recycled candles in your room, to the earrings you buy at the gift shop – we’re constantly seeking out new ways to create sustainable livelihoods for the people who call this unique area home.

Fat Biking

This is the ultimate ride from Grootbos Nature Reserve down the mountain to the top of the Sand Dunes. The trail to the dunes is special, running on a narrow sandy horse trail through the Fynbos. When reaching the dunes we will make our way up and across to reach a fantastic downhill section where we will pick up speed before reaching the top of our first vertical dune face. After a briefing on how to ride down the dune we down the face but for those just wanting an easy ride you can go around the side where it is an easy slope. The dune face may feel impossible and dangerous to do but the ride is in fact very controlled and the sand will slow the bike down.

What your mind tells you is impossible will in fact be very enjoyable and easy. I will be at the bottom of the dunes videoing your challenges so remember to smile. I will also teach you how to do slalom like a skiier on a snow ski slope. This is excellent fun on a bike and not too difficult to achieve. After the dunes we will pick up a 4x4 trail down to the beach. 

From there we will head back up to the car park but for those who are already tired I can bring the 4x4 down to the rocks so you do not have to ride up.

Fat Biking is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate

Red Indigo at Forest Lodge

Experience the finest contemporary cuisine in a world-class setting surrounded by exquisite natural beauty. Take in the magnificent panoramic views of Walker Bay and the mountainous planes of pristine fynbos while friendly staff tend to your every culinary desire. And the best part... it's all included in your board.

Savour delectable dishes prepared with organic ingredients produced by our very own Growing the Future food production and social upliftment project.

Delight in the seafood bounty of Walker Bay, enjoy extra-matured beef fillet grilled to perfection and taste award winning wines from local cellars that reflect the essence of the landscape and its people.

Overnight: Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Forest Lodge

Nestled in an ancient Milkwood forest in the peaceful Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, surrounded by rolling hills of fynbos and majestic mountains, The Forest Lodge features 16 freestanding luxury suites beneath an ancient forest canopy. Each of the suites is stylishly furnished with canopy beds, spacious en-suite bathrooms, and separate lounges with cosy fireplaces and private wooden decks with spectacular panoramic views. The lodge features a variety of elegant dining venues, a bar, lounge, curio shop and conference centre. Spacious wooden decks and an infinity pool beckon you to relax and unwind. As the evening descends, cosy fireplaces and subtle lighting create a warm, romantic atmosphere for the perfect dining experience.

Overnight in Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Forest Lodge

Meals: Fully Inclusive - Bed, All Meals, Fees and Activities

One & Only Cape Town, Cape Town

Day Itinerary

After a hearty breakfast, you will be met at 09:00 in the lodge reception by your local guide who will transfer you on private bases to Cape Town via Franschhoek.

Your first stop is at The Fairview Tasting Room one of the most popular Cape Winelands destinations, building on a reputation that stretches back to the 1970′s, here you enjoy their Masters Tasting.

Then head to Franschhoek, a wine-lovers dream destination - also known as "the French corner", an old Huguenot village. With its numerous streets and estates with French names, the town will make you feel completely bewildered, feeling like you were in France in another era. You will be completely enchanted by the town's charm and its peaceful environment. You will get the chance to taste the region's delicacies, cheeses, and best wines - lunch is included & booked for 13:30 at Le Colombe Franschhoek

Proceed to Cape Town and check in at the One&Only Cape Town Hotel. Spend the evening at own leisure

Cape Town

Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town presents an alluring combination of drawcards. Incredible powdery white beaches, highly acclaimed wine routes, and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. This diverse metropolis is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and a spectacular, chic waterfront harbour. Highlights include the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art; Table Mountain's jaw-dropping views; Boulders Beach, where penguins might swim right up to you in the warm Indian ocean waters; the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where you can walk along a treetop canopy among incredible native flora or watch an open-air concert at the base of the mountain; Robben Island, where visitors can see the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years; and many more.

Paarl Wine Region

The Paarl Wine Route is situated roughly 60 kilometres inland from Cape Town and stretches north of Stellenbosch, and is one of the most famous wine regions in the country. The area is particularly notable for its Cabernet Sauvignon, Shiraz, Pinotage, Chenin Blanc, and Chardonnay. However, extremely hot, dry summers and cold winters allow for a wide variety - visitors will also find superb roses, sparkling wines, and dessert wines - as well as plenty of other reds and whites. Culinary enthusiasts flock here as much for the impressive restaurants as for the wines - with most of these overlooking jaw-dropping pastoral scenes. Must-see estates include Fairview, Glen Carlou, Black Pearl, and the Vilafonte project, a highly acclaimed Napa Valley/Paarl collaboration. Travellers can also look forward to stately heritage architecture, an array of excellent museums, and some lovely boutiques.

Fairview Wine and Cheese

One of the most popular stops along the Paarl wine route, Fairview Wine and Cheese, beckons with its picturesque surroundings and its range of cow’s and goat’s milk cheeses. The estate encompasses a vast vineyard and goat farm, welcoming visitors to savour wine and cheese tasting sessions. A thoughtfully stocked deli and bakery enhance the culinary journey, complemented by a Mediterranean-style Goatshed Restaurant.

Franschhoek

Set just over an hour from Cape Town, within the inspiring landscapes of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is a heritage town and a world-renowned food and wine destination. Travellers could choose to focus their visit on any one aspect alone - nature, cuisine or culture - and find plenty to keep them busy. The estates here attract wine experts from around the globe with their Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cap Classique sparkling wine (among others). Five-star restaurants alongside the cellars are surrounded by the same jaw-dropping valley scenes that have brought artists and writers to the area for centuries. A superb literary festival takes place around May every year, and, combined with the town’s Cape Dutch manor houses, fascinating museums, and charming boutiques, makes Franschhoek a wonderful place to visit in winter. Summer provides endless hiking, cycling and other outdoor opportunities among the lush farmlands and mountains.

Overnight: One&Only Cape Town     

Welcome to the doorstep of Africa, where One&Only Cape Town takes pride of place in the city’s most coveted location. Draw back the blinds in one of the city’s most capacious rooms to reveal a sprawling private terrace with majestic views over Table Mountain or the glittering marina.

Relax in private accommodations where signature touches provide an elevated residential experience. Inspiring interiors artfully display both contemporary and traditional African aesthetics for a distinctive sense of place.

Lounge by the palm-fringed infinity pool, indulge in restorative treatments at the Spa Island, or sip a crisp glass of One&Only Brut in the Wine Studio. Soak up the buzz of the city at Vista, where live music fills the air and vibrant dishes showcase the flavours of the region. Enjoy glamorous al-fresco dining along the water’s edge at world- renowned Nobu – the global name’s only outpost on the continent.

However you wish to fill your time, One&Only Cape Town promises special moments of joy that allow guests of all ages to experience the very best of Africa.

Overnight in One&Only Cape Town    

Meals: Breakfast   

One&Only Cape Town, Cape Town

Day Itinerary

You will be met by your guide in your hotel reception area at 09:00 and taken on a half-day Cape Town City Orientation Tour to learn about Cape Town’s rich history and vibrant cultures. The day starts with a cableway trip to the top of one of the World’s Natural Wonders – Table Mountain, also the city’s most iconic and recognizable landmark. Explore the walking trails at the top and take in the many different viewpoints across the City Bowl, Table Bay, Atlantic Seaboard, and Peninsula.

You will then make your way to the V&A Waterfront, and Savour unforgettable views with a helicopter flight over the scenic Atlantic Seaboard before landing at The Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa. Indulge in a selection of curated food experiences with wine pairing.

After lunch, proceed to the Upmarket Camps Bay which draws crowds to its namesake beach, known for its fine white sand, natural rock swimming pool, and views of the Twelve Apostles mountains. Behind the beach, posh seafood restaurants, mellow cafes, and cocktail bars with patios overlook the promenade. Nearby, Promenade Mall has boutiques selling fashion and beachwear, while the intimate Theatre on the Bay stages drama, musicals, and comedy.

You return to the hotel

Table Mountain

Table Mountain is the most iconic landmark of South Africa. Aside from being the country’s most photographed attraction and the perfect place to take photos of the landscape of Cape Town, it is also home to about 2,200 species of plants and 1,470 floral species, many of which are endemic to the mountain. Animal species that can be spotted on the mountain include caracals, rock hyraxes and chacma baboons. The flat top peak of the mountain reaches 1,086 metres above sea level, but being so close to the sea and to the city, its features look more imposing.

NAC Helicopters Hopper Tour

The Hopper is quick yet breathtaking, making this the perfect tour if you’re short on time. Taking off from the V&A Waterfront, you’ll be awestruck by the Atlantic Ocean stretching out to the horizon, and possible sightings of whales and dolphins below.

Further on, you’ll pass over Green Point Stadium – built for the 2010 FIFA Soccer World Cup – before seeing a bird’s- eye view of Robben Island on your right, and Table Mountain on your left.

Hugging the Atlantic coast, you’ll marvel at the Cape Town City Bowl, the Peninsula’s white beaches, and the Twelve Apostles mountain range. Then you’ll get to do it all again, heading back to the V&A Waterfront.

Twelve Apostles Mountain Range

The Twelve Apostles mountain range forms part of the Table Mountain National Park in Cape Town and overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. The towering cliff faces, deep ravines, and breathtakingly beautiful gorges make this one of the best hiking routes the city has to offer. In addition to the stunning views, visitors can also experience the beautiful indigenous fauna growing on the mountain range.

 Azure Restaurant

Experience Fynbos cooking at Azure Restaurant. This natural vegetation is picked from The 12 Apostles gardens and used in meals and desserts. Delicious indigenous and international cuisine is on offer at the popular restaurant, which overlooks the Atlantic Ocean, creating a perfect setting to enjoy the spectacular sunsets seen here.

Overnight in One&Only Cape Town    

Meals: Breakfast  + Lunch & wine pairing + 12 course dinner & cocktails

One&Only Cape Town, Cape Town

Day Itinerary

You will be met by your guide in your hotel reception area at 09:00 and taken on a Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour. Cape Town is frequently acknowledged and awarded as being one of the world’s most beautiful places – this tour will show you why! Experience the spectacular natural splendor and abundance of life on the Cape Peninsula. With scenic views to take your breath away and photo opportunities galore this trip also takes you through a World Heritage Site – the Cape Floral Kingdom.

Travel along the Atlantic Seaboard to Hout Bay, passing magnificent beaches and the coastal suburbs of Clifton & Llandudno. From the busy fishing harbour at Hout Bay, you have the option of a boat trip to see the thousands of Cape Fur Seals living on a rocky outcrop. Browse for souvenirs at the Hout Bay Craft Market or take a walk on the beach and paddle your feet in the sea.

The tour continues over Chapman’s Peak, known as one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the world, all the way along the Peninsula to the southern tip at Cape Point. An invigorating walk takes you to the two lighthouses at the top and bottom of the headland, from where you will enjoy extraordinary views of the cliffs and the ocean below. Alternatively, you could take an optional short funicular ride to the top. Take a photo down at the most south-western point of the African continent at the Cape of Good Hope beach. We will visit the delightful African Penguins of Boulders Beach and then the drive takes us back via Cape Town’s coastal and southern suburbs. 

Highlights 

• Drive along the Atlantic Sea Board passing the beautiful beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay
• Photo stop at Maidens Cove to take in the views of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, Camps Bay Beach and Lions Head
• Stop at Hout Bay Harbour – a busy fishing harbour
• Optional boat ride to Duiker Island to see the Cape Fur Seals
• Chapman’s Peak Drive – known as one of the World’s most beautiful drives
• Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point – most South-Western point of Africa and the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula, spectacular scenery
• False Bay Coastal Road – look out for whales between June and November
• Visit the comical African Penguins at Boulders Beach
• Simon’s Town – home to South Africa’s Naval Base

Boulders Penguin Colony

Boulders Penguin Colony is located near Cape Town, South Africa. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the chance to observe African penguins at close range and learn more about them. The section also includes three boardwalks that provide easy access to the beach area, and sheltered areas for viewing the birds.

Cape Point

Cape Point is a spectacular sight, covered in endemic fynbos and home to breathtaking bays, beaches and rolling green hills and valleys, just 60km outside of Cape Town. Cape Point falls within the Cape Floral Region, a World Heritage Site. The Cape Floral Region is one of the richest areas for plants in the world – it is home to nearly 20% of Africa’s flora. Cape Point is open daily and is a must-see.

Cape Point Funicular

The Flying Dutchman funicular takes visitors at Cape Point up to the lighthouse, where there is an outstanding view of the point and ocean. The funicular is named after a ghost ship whose destiny it is to sail the oceans forever. More information can be found at the museum.

Chapman's Peak

Chapman’s Peak Drive winds its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. Situated on the Atlantic Coast, at the southwestern tip of South Africa, it is one of the most spectacular scenic drives in the world. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak. The drive offers stunning 180-degree views with many areas along the route where visitors can stop and take in the scenery or sit down for a relaxing picnic.

Hout Bay

The originally small fishing village of Hout Bay is now a popular suburb of Cape Town. Over and above being a lovely family beach, it has many tourist attractions which include the World of Birds, a township tour to the vibrant Imizamo Yethu, arts and crafts, boat rides out to Seal Island and some great, casual restaurants where you can relax and enjoy the surroundings.

Constantia Glen

Constantia Glen is ideally located below Constantia Nek, just moments from the bustling Cape Town city centre. A picturesque boutique wine estate producing ultra-premium, cool climate wines. Steeped in history, Constantia is the oldest wine producing region in South Africa dating back to 1685. Constantia Glen also offers a perfect location for special events.

Muizenberg

Muizenberg is a vibrant coastal town with a rich history and stunning beach. Its origins date back to the 18th century, and it has grown into a popular destination for surfers and beach enthusiasts. The beach is renowned for its consistent waves, attracting surfers of all skill levels. Along the shoreline, you'll find iconic and colourful bathing boxes that add a touch of charm to the area. History buffs can explore the Rhodes Cottage Museum and Het Posthuys Museum, which provide insights into the town's past. The Battle of Muizenberg's historical site commemorates a significant event during the Anglo-Dutch war. For entertainment, the Masque Theatre offers a diverse program of live performances. Additionally, Casa Labia, a stunning Italian-inspired mansion, houses an art gallery, café, and cultural centre.

Overnight in One&Only Cape Town    

Meals: Breakfast   

Day Itinerary

Today, you enjoy your final breakfast before saying Goodbye to beautiful South Africa

You will be met in the hotel reception by your local guide who will transfer you on a private basis to Cape Town International Airport for your departure flight.

Basis : Bed and Breakfast