Calabash Tours: Travel off the Beaten Path in the Garden Route’s Port Elizabeth

On February 8, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Synonymous with gorgeous weather, Port Elizabeth in South Africa’s Garden Route is the best place to visit for enjoying ocean and beach related activities such as sun bathing, sailing, scuba diving, and boating, as well as fine dining, shopping, and more. In addition, Port Elizabeth is also famous for its close-proximity to local townships and private game reserves.

With its ideal location in the Garden Route, Port Elizabeth is a short drive to a variety of game reserves including Shamwari Private Game Reserve, Addo Elephant Park, and a handful of other smaller reserves where visitors can view a wide spectrum of diverse fauna and flora as well as the Big Five.

Port Elizabeth is also known for its rich historical and cultural heritage. As the second oldest city in South Africa, Port Elizabeth is celebrate for its Xhosa heritage and a wide spectrum of historical landmarks such as the Historic Donkin Heritage Trail, Old Hill, old-world architecture, and stunning parks comprised of intricate gardens and gorgeous green fields.

Although Port Elizabeth is famous for its beauty and abundance of activities, some argue that nothing compares to visiting a local township where you can interact with locals, learn about their everyday lifestyles, and immerse yourself in an enlightening cultural experience.

For those looking to travel off the beaten path, a tour with Calabash Tours is the perfect way to open your eyes to hidden areas you would have never seen on your own. What separates Calabash Tours from other tour providers is their superior expertise and knowledge of the area as well as their ability to open your eyes to both urban and rural cultures. Whether you’re looking to take a safari tour through a nearby game reserve or tour a local Xhosa township, Calabash Tours brings you up-close to it all.

But Calabash Tours offers more than exceptional tours through Port Elizabeth’s townships and adjacent game reserves. As a Fair Trade In Tourism (FTTSA) certified touring company, Calabash Tours gives back to the local economy, communities, and school systems, and works to sustain the local environment to ensure a thriving wilderness.

Select from a variety of excellent Calabash Tours, including . . .

The Addo Day Tour:

Home to the largest population of elephants on the planet, Addo Elephant Park is the perfect place to spend a day while visiting Port Elizabeth. During your tour through Addo Elephant Park you’ll see mother elephants tending to their young, as well as antelopes, zebras, lions, leopards, buffalos, rhinos, and more. As you observe these magnificent creatures in their natural environment, Calabash Tours’ exceptional guides will provide you with their rich knowledge on the behavior and lifestyle of these animals.

The Real City Tour:

Calabash Tours provides you with a deep insight into the local villages and people as you venture to the nearby townships of Kwazakhele, Zwide, and New Brighton. During this visit, you’ll discover what it was like for South Africans during the apartheid and how their social history has shaped their existence today. You’ll also travel down one of the main shopping streets where street vendors sell their products and works of art, visit a local community-run children’s school (where some of the funds from your tour fee goes to), and tour through Red

Location—the oldest township in South Africa.

During your trip to the local townships, you’ll partake in one of the most rewarding experiences of a lifetime as you witness the excitement and eagerness of the locals to share with you their lives and history. Throughout the entire tour you will learn about the history of Port Elizabeth as you interact with the guides and locals. Because you are not traveling in a closed vehicle, you have the rare opportunity to interact with the locals without the barriers of a car or bus window.

Shebeen Tours:

If you love the social atmosphere of a pub than you’ll absolutely love this tour. Shebeens, which were previously outlawed, are places where the local community gets together for drinks, music, and dancing. The shebeen is a way for locals to socialize and enjoy a drink while listening to live music. On this tour, you’ll experience the entertaining atmosphere of a variety of shebeens and have the opportunity to interact with the local Xhosa people, and enjoy a traditional dinner and drinks!

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Experience the Exhilaration of Deep Sea and Freshwater Fishing in Africa

On February 5, 2010, In African Safari Tours, African Safari Vacation, Spotlight: African Animals, By Sandy Salle
Photo of Tigerfish from Fisheastafrica.com

Photo of Tigerfish from Fisheastafrica.com

When planning a trip to Africa there’s a variety of factors to consider. But one of the most important things to reflect on is the activities you wish to take part in while on your African safari vacation. Most likely, you can find an African safari tour or activity in the region that is related to your favorite past time or interests.

Fishing is one such activity that can be enjoyed throughout many regions and coastlines of Africa. Whether your interest lies in deep sea fishing or freshwater fishing, Africa has it all. But an important question to ask yourself before choosing your fishing excursion is, “What type of experience do I wish to have?” Freshwater fishing is a completely different experience from deep sea fishing as you have the opportunity to observe large land game and other lake dwelling creatures such as a wide variety of birds, hippos, and crocodiles as you enjoy an exciting day of fishing.

Deep sea fishing, on the other hand, typically consists of larger and stronger fish depending on the time of year you choose to go out, and the fishing line also reaches depths of over 1,000 ft.

Below are details and highlights from deep sea fishing and freshwater fishing:

Deep Sea Fishing in Africa

Some of the best African coastlines to go deep sea fishing off of are Kenya, Tanzania, and the Mozambique Channel. Typically, October through March yield the most catch, which often consist of a variety of marlin species, wahoo, kingfish, yellowfin tuna, and swordfish. But often, sailfish are caught the most as they are found in the area year round.

Night fishing tours also yield a wide variety of big game fish. Arguably the greatest fighter and possibly the most popular fish caught during the night is the broadbill swordfish. The broadbill swordfish’s exhilarating fight is often a highlight among participants on a deep sea fishing excursion.

Below is a video from BBC Planet Earth of sailfish as they’re on the hunt:

Freshwater Fishing in Africa

Weighing in at an average of 10 – 25 lbs., the tigerfish is arguably the most popular freshwater fish to catch in the world. For most anglers, the tigerfish is as worthy of an opponent as its name may lead you to believe. With an immediate and aggressive strike, this fish is characterized by its velocity and fight, and takes the chart as the top freshwater sporting fish in Africa. And the tigerfish’s larger cousin, the goliath tigerfish, can reach staggering weights of up to 100 lbs but is much harder to catch.

Some of the best places to fish for tigerfish include Zambia’s Lower Zambezi National Park, and Zimbabwe’s Zambezi River and Mana Pools National Park.

Coming in at twice the weight of the goliath tigerfish is the Nile Perch. This 200 lb. highly-pursued big game fish is usually caught using 40 lb. tests and large crankbaits and is the largest freshwater fish found throughout Africa. These exceptionally large fish can be found Lake Victoria, Lake Turkana, Lake Tanganyika, and Uganda.

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Plettenberg Bay: More Than Just Another Family Vacation

On February 3, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle
Plettenberg Bay

Plettenberg Bay

Choosing a destination for the family can be quite the ordeal. Is it a well-rounded location with a variety of things to do? Is it safe? Are there beaches nearby? Will the kids enjoy it? How are the accommodations?

Many times a compromise is necessary when choosing a family destination—but not in the Garden Route’s Plettenberg Bay.Whether you’re a beach lover, wildlife adventurist, an explorer at heart, a photography enthusiast, or love to fish, Plettenberg Bay has the fascinating ability to bring any passion to life.

With miles upon miles of sparkling beaches and coastline, estuaries, rocky peninsulas, magnificent mountains, and thick Fynbos forests, Plettenberg Bay is a giant melting pot of indigenous bird, animal, fish, flora, and reptile species.

But this area of the Garden Route is more than a wildlife sanctuary—it is a place rich with cultural heritage, unique learning experiences, and activities that the entire family can enjoy together. Whether your family enjoys the relaxing aspect of nature such as laying on the beach, or more physically-oriented activities such as hiking and touring, you’re sure to find a rewarding family experience in Plettenberg Bay.

Some of the area’s most famous family-oriented activities include:

Cape Town tours

South Africa tours

A trip to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary: As the world’s only free-roaming multispecies monkey sanctuary, Monkeyland is an exciting and interactive learning experience for all of its visitors—no matter their age. During your visit to Monkeyland, you can experience an intimate, one-hour walking safari with Monkeyland’s highly-knowledgeable game rangers and view a variety of primates from all around the world as well as a plethora of exotic bird species. Because these primates roam about the sanctuary completely free from cages, you have the opportunity to interact with these creatures without any barriers—a rare and highly-rewarding experience.In addition to a walking safari through the sanctuary, you can enjoy a cup of coffee and lunch amongst the primates. Monkeyland is a completely self-sustaining sanctuary that remains open thanks to tourists who visit the area.

South Africa tours

South Africa tours

A trip to Elephant Sanctuary: The Elephant Sanctuary is an exceptional safe haven for young African elephants that are able to roam freely without any restraints or caging and are able to enjoy a safe and playful setting, free from environmental hazards. This unique setup allows sanctuary visitors to interact with these gentle giants as they get up-close and personal. The Elephant Sanctuary takes great pride in their family-oriented operation and their superior staff ensures you have the family affair of a lifetime. In addition to their commitment to pleasing visitors, the Elephant Sanctuary staff is equally devoted to ensuring all of the elephants are safe, happy, and well-taken care of.During your tour through the elephant sanctuary you will have the exclusive opportunity to not only interact with these extraordinary creatures, but also pet, feed, and walk trunk-in-hand with them.

South Africa tours

South Africa tours

A walking tour: Thanks to an unspoiled coastline, intricate wetlands, and thriving forest systems your family can enjoy a wide spectrum of activities and learning experiences. A walking tour through this area of the Garden Route is extremely diverse and provides a rich learning experience to all. With a variety of walking trails to choose from throughout the Plettenberg Bay area, you have the opportunity to experience a plethora of differing eco-systems. Choose from mountain walking tours, forest hiking tours, the Tsitsikamma Trail, and more.

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The Oyster Box Hotel: A Personal South African Family Vacation Favorite

On February 1, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Safari Vacation, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Oyster Box Hotel

Oyster Box Hotel

Post by Sandy Salle

As a native to Zimbabwe I used to travel to South Africa to visit relatives, and some of my fondest memories of South Africa took place at the Oyster Box Hotel. Every other year during my childhood, my family and I would visit the Oyster Box Hotel, which was owned and run by my great aunt, Kay Hill.

The Oyster Box’s rich character, luxurious layout, and spectacular views inspired me to stay in South Africa at the age of 18 and work at the hotel for 6 months.

Below are some of my favorite highlights of this delightful hotel and its immediate surroundings:

  • The sprawling views of the ocean, beach, and the quaint colonial-style lighthouse: As the sun sets behind the Indian Ocean horizon, it’s cast onto the lighthouse forms a beautiful silhouette that can be seen from the comfort of your private suite, poolside, or on the beach. The sunset can also be enjoyed with friends and family as you sip a sundowner and socialize about the day’s happenings.
  • The location: Five minutes from the intimate and quaint setting of the Oyster Box Hotel are some of South Africa’s most popular shopping centers, historic sites, and theaters. Specifically, the Umhlanga Village Centre, Afro-chic Durban city centre, the Gateway Theatre of Shopping, Ushaka Marine World, Sun Coast casino, Natal Midlands, Drakensberg Mountains, and exceptional Big Five game parks, are within walking distance from the privacy of the Oyster Box Hotel. Golf courses and the 2010 FIFA World Cup stadium are also located nearby.
  • Oyster Box Hotel

    Oyster Box Hotel

    The accommodation and luxurious ambiance: With 86 different types of high-end and comfortable rooms to choose from, Oyster Box Hotel caters to your every personal preferences and needs. Whether you’re on an African family vacation or honeymoon vacation, their mission is to ensure each and every guest has the perfect stay. With no detail overlooked, the Oyster Box Hotel provides accommodation ranging from classic rooms to sea facing cabanas, luxury suites to deluxe suites, and presidential suites to superior garden villas.

  • The social and dining settings: From lavishly decorated bars, to some of South Africa’s finest restaurants, the Oyster Box Hotel offers an eclectic variety of bars and restaurants that caters to all social desires. Whether you’re looking for a fine dining experience with an ocean backdrop, or unwinding with a cold cocktail after an adventurous day, Oyster Box Hotel makes it convenient for you to find the perfect setting for your mood. The three restaurants within the Oyster Box include The Grill Room, The Ocean Terrace, and The Palm Court Restaurant. And the bars situated within the hotel are The Chukka Bar, The Lighthouse Bar, and the Oyster Bar.
  • Dining at Oyster Box Hotel

    Dining at Oyster Box Hotel

    The delightful cuisine: Catering to your every dining preference, the Oyster Box’s three exceptional restaurants offer unique fusions of international delicacies and sumptuous local flavors. Each restaurant specializes in their own variations of freshly caught seafood dishes, meat dishes, and vegetarian meals, while others offer more casual fare such as pizzas and sandwiches.

Did you enjoy this post? Let us know in our comments section or share it with your friends.

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Hermanus’ Birkenhead House and Villa: Where a New Adventure Awaits You Each Day

On January 29, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, By Sandy Salle

Hermanus from Birkenhead HouseA favorite among wine lovers, nature enthusiasts, and passionate beach goers, Hermanus in the Garden Route, South Africa is praised for its exceptional ability to accommodate for a variety of interests. Some of the region’s most famed characteristics include its wildlife-abundant hiking trails, exceptional whale watching, and stunning beachscape. Whether you love to sunbathe, relax by the ocean, walk, or hike, Hermanus has some of the best mountain trails and beaches in South Africa to satisfy any passion.

For the ultimate experience in Hermanus, the Birkenhead House and Villa is the premier accommodation for superior ocean and mountain views, exceptional activities, delectable international cuisine, and the finest interior décor and linens. Known for its remarkable ability to exceed the highest of expectations, the Birkenhead House and Villa is the absolute embodiment of luxury. Its location overlooking the ocean is the perfect place for you to observe southern right whales during your stay, relax by the infinity pool, or enjoy a blissful massage outdoors with the soothing sound of waves crashing in the background.

To the other side of the exquisite Birkenhead House and Villa lies spectacular mountains, interlaced with hiking and walking trails, that are perfect for observing Hermanus’ exceptional wildlife.

The walker and hiker: With indescribable birds-eye-views of Walker Bay and its surrounding mountainous coastline, hikers to Hermanus’ Fernkloof Nature Reserve are rewarded with the experience of a lifetime. If you’re a hiking enthusiast, than you will undoubtedly fall in love with not only the view at the top of the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, but also the hike to the top. During your hike, you will see a wealth of indigenous birds, small game, exotic plant species, and fascinating wildlife. If you prefer a less physically challenging experience, one of the many walking trails along the mountains in Hermanus is the perfect way to view nature and the gorgeous Fynbos without the rapid heart rate and huffing and puffing.

gardenroutebeach2The beach lover: Hermanus is just one of the many places in Garden Route that offers exquisite beaches. As a matter of fact, Hermanus’ Grotto beach is so beautiful that it was awarded the Blue Flag Status. Other beaches within walking distance of Birkenhead House include Voëlklip, and Kamma Bay. Whether you’re looking to soak in the sun, whale watch from the shore, enjoy a picnic, or play some paddle ball, Birkenhead House is dedicated to fulfilling your every need and desire—down to the very last detail.

The ocean enthusiast: If you simply cannot get enough of the ocean, than you’re in for a real treat at Birkenhead House. The terrace that juts out from the plateau that Birkenhead House sits atop has an infinity pool and luxurious white wicker chairs that melt into the ocean for a seamless view. As you relax on the terrace, you can easily view whales across the long coastline, which are prominent during the months of May to December—August being the birthing month. If you want to get up-close to these magnificent creatures, than an intimate voyage around Dyer Island is the perfect activity for you. Deep-sea fishing, whale tours, and shark cage diving are also activities offered by Birkenhead House and are absolutely splendid to take part in.

The complete relaxer: If you love to escape from the hustle and bustle of life, relax, soak in the beautiful scenery, and enjoy a rejuvenating spa treatment, than the Birkenhead House Spa is your ultimate escape. Featuring two rooms, the Lavender Room and the Cinnamon Room, you’re sure to find complete peace and serenity at the spa. The Lavender Room is designed to restore the balance of the senses with its soothing music, subtle scents of lavender, and trickling water in the background. The Cinnamon Room was also created to inspire complete relaxation and is filled with the sweet aroma of warming cinnamon. Spa treatments include aromatherapy, Swedish massages, hot-stone massages, reflexology, waxing, manicures, pedicures, and facial treatments—to name a very few.

Whether you’re a hiker, walker, beach lover, ocean enthusiast, a complete relaxer, or anything in between, Hermanus’ Birkenhead House and Villa is a must-visit destination.

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Immerse Yourself in Local Cape Town Culture As You Help Conserve the Local Community

On January 27, 2010, In African Safari Tours, South Africa, Sustainable Tourism, By Sandy Salle
AWOL Bike Tours

AWOL Bike Tours

Imagine taking a relaxing stroll through a charming South African village, where the unique African spirit, the scent of authentic cuisine, and the joy of the local community fills the air.

When you take part in an AWOL bicycle township tour, you’re not only experiencing a breathtaking journey through Cape Town’s beautiful township, Masiphumelele, you’re also, simultaneously, giving back to the local community. Famous for their exceptional ability to fuse a rich cultural learning experience with sustainable efforts, AWOL has been awarded the Imvelo Award for their responsible tourism efforts and is also a certified Fair Trade in Tourism organization.

AWOL, which means “a world of learning,” is a proud partner of the Bicycling Empowerment Network (BEN), and works closely with BEN to spread their conservation efforts across the local townships. BEN is a nonprofit organization that works to alleviate poverty through the importation and use of gently used bicycles, and works to promote the bicycle’s health benefits and environmental benefits.

How do you benefit from an AWOL tour?

  • Unlike any other tour in Cape Town, the AWOL bicycle township tour is filled with a variety of activities that allow you to completely immerse yourself within the local Xhosa culture.
  • As you stroll through the quaint Masiphymelele township on bicycle (without the confinements of a bus or vehicle), you’ll have the opportunity to observe and interact with the locals in their everyday lives. During your tour, you’ll learn about the Xhosa people’s unique customs and traditions from a highly-knowledgeable and certified local guide.
  • One of the greatest highlights of the bicycle tour is the chance to view a traditional Xhosa dance performed by a Sangoma (African traditional healer). This is one of the most enlightening experiences of the bicycle tour as it incorporates authentic music with traditional dance rituals. And we promise, you’ve never seen or heard anything like it.
  • Enjoy an authentic, home cooked meal in an African home and taste the delectable flavors of local spices and produce. During this lunch, you’ll be able to interact with a local family and participate in the cooking experience if you so choose and you will also be able to view the interior of a traditional Masiphymelele home. Nothing is more satisfying than taking the time to see how traditional African cuisine is prepared and learning first-hand cooking lessons from the locals.
  • See the joyful faces of children at a local pre-school and interact with them for an even deeper insight into the local customs and community lifestyle.

AWOL Bike Tours

AWOL Bike Tours

How does the community benefit from an AWOL tour?

  • AWOL strives to sustain the local economy by assisting locals to start up their own business and by employing locals to become qualified guides. This not only allows the locals to proudly share their knowledge of their cultural and historical heritage with visitors, but it also allows them to be paid for these services.
  • Because the bicycles used in the AWOL bicycle tour are second hand and produce no carbon emissions, they are completely safe for the environment and allow the local community to financially profit from the tours. In addition to helping sustain the local economy, the fact that bicycles produce no gas emissions means a healthier environment and lifestyle for the locals.
  • Locals who offer their cooking expertise to visitors are also compensated for their efforts and have the opportunity to share their natural born skills with visitors.
  • Some of the proceeds from the tour go to a local pre-school that is visited during the tour, which helps to sustain the local education system.
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Upcoming Uthando Projects: Why One Group of Women Are Taking Their Clothes Off

On January 25, 2010, In South Africa, By Sandy Salle
The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

As one of the leading community project facilitators and supporters in South Africa, the Uthando Foundation strives to “raise moral and financial support for children who are infected or affected by the HIV / AIDS crisis in South Africa.”

Through their relentless efforts to bring happiness and health care to local South African communities, the Uthando Foundation is working hard to provide children with basic necessities, such as food, medication, moral support, education, shelter, and more. As of the beginning of January, 2010, Uthando has delivered to all of its projects for its second, full year in business. With a handful of new projects lined up for the year, Uthando is seeing great strides in their efforts and has a positive outlook for the future.

The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

The Underberg Calendar Girls Facebook Page

One of the newest—and allegedly controversial—projects this year is The Underberg Calendar Girls. The discreet and humorous calendar is comprised of nude photos of a group of mothers in the small South African town, Underberg, who are taking their clothes off to help raise money to heat the local school pool. Because the pool is usually cold throughout the year, children usually don’t use it for athletic purposes or even for play.

Looking to brush the dust off the pool, the mothers of Underberg are hoping to raise money for their non-profit calendar, but not without some scolding from local conservatives who are accusing them of “promoting sex and immoral acts.”

We wish them luck and hope that their brave efforts and hard work pays off!

Visit their Facebook group, The Underberg Calendar Girls, to view some of their photos and join the conversation.

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The African Fish Eagle: Africa’s most Beautiful Soaring Predator

On January 22, 2010, In African Safari Tours, Spotlight: African Animals, By Sandy Salle
African Fish Eagle

African Fish Eagle

by Mark Homann, certified safari guide

One of Africa’s most striking and easily recognizable eagles is the African fish eagle. Similar in its appearance to America’s Bald Eagle, the fish eagle’s white mantle, head, and breast are offset by a chestnut abdomen and black under parts. These birds have a hauntingly beautiful call that is synonyms with Africa’s wild places and can be seen on African safari tours. With long claws that allow them to grasp fish, they are almost always found near water and are masters at fishing. Their broad wings help them to soar in the lightest breeze, and provide maximum power to lift fish out of the water.

The African fish eagle catches most of its fish between 5 to 12 inches in the water and has been known to catch fish as heavy as itself at about 8 pounds—although it’s more likely to catch fish smaller than this. Short fishing trips are conducted from a perch or on the wing. They will locate fish by sight although there is evidence that they can also find their prey from splashing sounds. While mainly a fish eating bird, they have been recorded hunting flamingoes and feeding on carrion.

These birds will often call in duet as a way to maintain their pair bond and mark their territories.  They are most vocal during the mating season when the male will fly high above his mate and then dive back down towards her. As he approaches her, she will turn on her back offering her talons to his.

Nesting in tall trees in the canopy, the African fish eagle’s nest is a flat-topped structure that’s about 45 inches deep and 60 inches across. One to three white eggs, occasionally marked with red, are laid and then incubated by both the male and female for a period of approximately 45 days.  Occasionally, two chicks will leave the nest but the survival of only one is the norm. The nestlings begin to leave the nest within 75 days and will not gain their adult plumage until they are 5 years-old.

What animal would you want to see us spotlight? Let us know in our comments section.

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A Culinary and Wine Tasting Affair of a Lifetime Awaits You in Cape Winelands

On January 20, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Honeymoon Safari, South Africa, Wine, By Sandy Salle
South Africa honeymoon safari

South Africa honeymoon safari

Immerse yourself in South Africa’s celebrated “Food & Wine” capital, Cape Winelands. Famous for its fascinating countryside, infinite vineyards, and unique local cultures, Cape Winelands is one of the world’s most highly-acclaimed wine countries.

As a wine lover’s paradise, Cape Winelands explodes with the scent of plump grapes and fertile earth—and when combined, these two elements produce some of the world’s greatest wines. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or simply love wine (without the tasting expertise), a tour through Cape Winelands will introduce you to spectacular wines, pairings, and wine making history.

Comprised of family owned vineyards that date back centuries ago, this region is rich with intriguing history and cultural heritage. Because there is so much more to visiting Cape Winelands than simply tasting wine, Cape Winelands has racked up quite the reputation with its well-rounded tours. From olive oil tastings, to brandy tastings, and village tours, to food and wine tasting tours, you’ll discover how food and wine have played a crucial role in shaping Cape Winelands existence since the early 1600s.

Cape Winelands tours

Cape Winelands tours

Depending on the tour provider you choose, you have the opportunity to experience . . .

  • Winemaking tours: Have you ever dreamt about making your own wine? If so, you can bring that dream to life on a winemaking tour. During this tour, you experience the entire winemaking process and, in the end, you’ll receive your very own bottled, delicious creations. From harvesting the grapes yourself, to crushing the grapes, to allowing your wine to ferment, you will have created a spectacular wine from start to finish. Once your wine has fermented and is properly bottled, the wine you have made will be shipped to your home (whether you live in Europe, the U.S., or elsewhere) for you to share with family and friends. In addition to actually making the wine, you’ll also learn about food and wine pairings and how to make cheese, and you will experience several wine and olive tastings throughout the region.
  • Personal wine tasting tours: Whether you’re looking to enjoy an intimate wine tasting tour on your honeymoon, or want to experience a tour with close friends or family, you will be able to have a completely private and personal experience on one of Cape Winelands’ many multiday personal tours. Wine tasting tours go to some of Cape Winelands’ most prestigious wine and olive estates, allowing you to try delicious wines, brandies, olive oils, and olives.
Cape Wineland estates

Cape Wineland estates

Because personal wine tasting tours allow you to choose your activities, you can eliminate any vineyards or estates you don’t wish to see. For example, if you prefer white wine as opposed to red (or vice versa) you have the opportunity to hand select the vineyards that specialize primarily in whites (or reds). No matter the size of your group, you can experience a personal wine tasting tour that gives you the attention you deserve and a front-row wine tasting experience.

  • VIP Wine Tasting: Many of the personal multiday wine tasting tours provide you with the option of making a highly tailored itinerary that will incorporate your every individual preference. Whether you want to enjoy private, delectable lunches and picnics at exclusive wine estates and talk with the masters of winemaking themselves, or visit some of the most prestigious Winelands estates, VIP wine tasting tours will satisfy your every desire. Because some of the estates are by-appointment only, an intimate wine tasting tour allows you to visit some of the most exclusive estates throughout the Winelands. One such estate, The De Toren estate, is open by appointment only and is a rare treat to anyone’s itinerary because the winemaker uses the traditional way of making wine—using basket presses instead of pumping the wine. Visitors on their personal Cape Winelands tour are able to meet De Toren’s winemaker and enjoy a private tour and tasting.
  • One Day Tours: If you’re not staying in Cape Winelands for several nights, a one day tour through some of the local villages and Cape Dutch farms is one of the best ways to witness all the beauty and highlights Cape Winelands has to offer. Some of the local villages you can visit while on one day tours include Franschhoek’s historic French Huguenot Village, Paarl, and Stellenbosch. On these tours you will observe all-encompassing, classic Cape Dutch style architecture and spectacular sight-seeing, and learn about the rich cultural and historical heritage of the region from expert guides. You can also enjoy a variety of one day wine tasting and olive tasting tours.
  • Horseback riding tours: Take an intimate, multiday wine tasting tour through the prestigious wine vineyards of Franschhoek on horseback. Enjoy frequent stops at some of the region’s most exceptional vineyards and relax on the rolling countryside for a delectable picnic. Visiting only the vineyards you want to see, you can be certain you’ll experience the most personal, accommodating, and exceptional wine tasting tour you’ve ever had.

Because Cape Winelands is full of culinary sensations and famous for its exceptional wine reputation, it’s the perfect destination for families and honeymooners alike who are looking for the vacation of a lifetime.

What would you like to experience in Cape Winelands? We’d love to hear from you in our comments section.

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Reptile Spotlight: The Gaboon Viper

On January 18, 2010, In African Family Safari, African Honeymoon Safari, African Safari Safety, Spotlight: African Animals, By Sandy Salle
Considered one of Africa’s deadliest snakes, the gaboon viper is one of three vipers in the African giant viper group—the other two of the group include the puff adder and the rhinoceros viper.
As a native to Chimanimani, Zimbabwe, I’ve seen many of these gorgeous, yet frightening snakes throughout my years growing up in the region. These snakes are also primarily found throughout central Africa in the dense rain forests.
Weighing in at an average of 18 lbs., and growing up to 7 ft. in length, you would think these snakes would be obvious to spot. They’re not. Their ability to mesh in with the surroundings often makes this deadly snake an unseen predator.
Interesting facts:
• Equipped with some of the largest fangs of any snake, the gaboon viper’s fangs can grow up to 2 in. in length.
• The gaboon viper’s brown, triangle-shaped head has a shocking resemblance to a fallen leaf, which allows it to blend perfectly into the rainforest floor. In addition to its head, the gaboon viper’s body is thick and comprised of colorful geometric shapes and hues including brown, black, white, purple, and pink.
• When going in for the kill, the gaboon viper waits completely still and very patiently for their prey. These reptiles will eat smaller animals such as mice, rats, frogs, and birds, but have also been known to eat much larger prey if they can handle it. Their venom is deadly and is injected to kill.
• The gaboon is a nocturnal ambush predator that waits patiently beneath leaves in the dark for the perfect time to strike its unsuspecting prey. Although they only hunt at night, the gaboon can attack at any time of the day if threatened—often, if a human is attacked it’s because they stepped on a sleeping gaboon.
• Other names the gaboon viper goes by include the butterfly adder, swampjack, and forest puff adder.
• The gaboon viper gives birth live—an average of 20 offspring at a time.
• Gaboon vipers are usually calm and only attack when agitated.
 
Photo from Fitnesssafaris.com

Photo from Fitnesssafaris.com

Considered one of Africa’s deadliest snakes, the gaboon viper is one of three vipers in the African giant viper group—the other two of the group include the puff adder and the rhinoceros viper. 

As a native to Chimanimani, Zimbabwe, I’ve seen many of these gorgeous, yet frightening snakes throughout my years growing up in the region. These snakes are also primarily found throughout central Africa in the dense rain forests.

Weighing in at an average of 18 lbs., and growing up to 7 ft. in length, you would think these snakes would be obvious to spot. They’re not. Their ability to mesh in with the surroundings often makes this deadly snake an unseen predator.

Interesting facts:

  • Equipped with some of the largest fangs of any snake, the gaboon viper’s fangs can grow up to 2 in. in length.
  • The gaboon viper’s brown, triangle-shaped head has a shocking resemblance to a fallen leaf, which allows it to blend perfectly into the rainforest floor. In addition to its head, the gaboon viper’s body is thick and comprised of colorful geometric shapes and hues including brown, black, white, purple, and pink.
  • The gaboon is a nocturnal ambush predator that waits patiently beneath leaves in the dark for the perfect time to strike its unsuspecting prey. Although they only hunt at night, the gaboon can attack at any time of the day if threatened—often, if a human is attacked it’s because they stepped on a sleeping gaboon. 
  • Other names the gaboon viper goes by include the butterfly adder, swampjack, and forest puff adder.
  • The gaboon viper gives birth live—an average of 20 offspring at a time. 
  • Gaboon vipers are usually calm and only attack when agitated.  
  •  When going in for the kill, the gaboon viper waits completely still and very patiently for their prey. These reptiles will eat smaller animals such as mice, rats, frogs, and birds, but have also been known to eat much larger prey if they can handle it. Their venom is deadly and is injected to kill.
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