10 Day Coastal Explorer

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Detailed Trip Description

From the Cold Atlantic currents, storm battered rocks, and pristine white beaches around Cape Town, we will move northward to the crystal clear, warm Indian Ocean and unspoiled sandy beaches of Durban. On this tour we endeavor to explore the area thoroughly and to enjoy the many nature reserves and activities encountered en-route. The tour is designed for active participants who wish to make the most of the time available; we cover vast distance, but also include walks and other activities. Bungalows and Inns are used, some basic but always comfortable, all are chosen for their location. A certain amount of fitness and flexibility will be required; more suitable for those looking for adventure.

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Trip Itinerary

Day 1 - Cape Town

 
Departing from the DRIFTERS CAPE TOWN INN at 08h30, we follow the rugged coastline through the numerous fishing villages to Hermanus - well known for offering the finest land based whale watching (May to December). Our next stop is the southern-most tip of Africa, Cape Agulhas, where the warm Indian and cold Atlantic oceans meet. This afternoon we will spend time game watching in the De Hoop Nature Reserve, acclaimed for its unique fauna, flora and spectacular scenery. We overnight in comfortable bungalows, clients may be expected to share – more than 2 per bungalow.

Day 2 - South Africa

 
An early start, we leave the coast and cross the mighty Outeniqua Mountains to enter the dry Karoo Interior. We follow the “famed and funky Route 62” toward Oudtshoorn where we visit the Cango Caves; one of the world’s great wonders. We will also visit a commercial Ostrich farm to learn more about these huge flightless birds. Late this afternoon we traverse the Outeniqua Pass and then travel through the Lake District en-route to our Log Cabins hidden in the heart of the Knysna forest. Our home for the next two nights will be the DRIFTERS KNYSNA INN. B L D

Day 3 - South Africa

 
This day will be spent exploring this renowned region and its many attractions. We will walk in the forest in search of the elusive Knysna Lourie. We will visit sun-kissed beaches, and explore the Knysna Heads.Tonight we dine at a restaurant in the vibrant woodcutter town of Knysna. (Lunch and dinner are own expense). B

Day 4 - South Africa

 
Today we will travel to the Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park where we will walk part of the acclaimed "Otter Trail". Continuing along the coast, we will pass by Port Elizabeth en-route to our camp near the Addo Elephant Reserve where we stay in comfortable cabins. B L D

Day 5 - South Africa

 
This day will be spent exploring the Park. Renowned for its herds of African Elephant, Black Rhinoceros, Cape Buffalo, Dung Beetle’s, and other interesting species. This Park is one of Africa’s conservation success stories. We return to our cabins for the night. B L D

Day 6 - South Africa

 
Back to the coast today, we wind through the frontier area settled by the 1820 settlers. We will pass through numerous coastal towns before making for East London where we check into the DRIFTERS EAST LONDON INN, a cosy inn situated near the beachfront. This afternoon we will enjoy a guided township tour and will enjoy a drink in a local shebeen. We return to the Inn and then enjoy dinner at a local restaurant. (Dinner own expense). B L

Day 7 - 8 - South Africa

 
Today we travel into an area once designated as a Tribal Homeland during the apartheid era (Transkei). Nelson Mandela was born here, and our route takes us past both his birthplace and the holiday house that he had built to replicate his prison house. This afternoon we arrive at the remote DRIFTERS WILD COAST INN, where we will spend two nights. This inn is part of a community project, and is hidden in a natural cove offering excellent swimming opportunity. A full day is spent here with time on the beach and enjoying the surf. To stretch our legs we will conduct a hike along the Wild Coast. B L D ; B L D

Day 9 - Durban

 
A reasonably long drive today, but well rested, we pass through the scenic hill’s of the Eastern Cape, dotted with rural villages where women work in the fields and men tend their cows as they have for centuries. Our journey then takes us past the many resorts of the Kwazulu – Natal South Coast before we enter Durban, South Africa’s holiday city and home to Africa’s busiest harbour. Our stop tonight is just north of Durban at the DRIFTERS DOLPHIN COAST INN, situated literally on the beach; this is the perfect place to unwind after the many days of traveling. Tonight we enjoy a “braai” on the patio before falling asleep to the sound of the crashing waves. B L D

Day 9 - Durban

 
The tour ends this morning after breakfast. B

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