Experience 4 days in the five-star eco-paradise of Grootbos Private Nature Reserve Garden Lodge. Enjoy the incredible flora and marine life of the southern tip of Africa that Grootbos has to offer. This rugged stretch of South African coastline snakes along the Atlantic Ocean, with magnificent mountains rising up on the other side. The spectacular scenery is made up of charming seaside villages, farms, rivers, coves and valleys, and during the right season, the region’s namesake – whales – can be seen cruising and wallowing in the coastal waters.
Grootbos is about more than just luxury accommodation and eco adventures. Your visit directly contributes to the conservation efforts of the Grootbos Foundation as well as the development of sustainable nature-based livelihoods amongst local communities. It is this core philosophy of conservation linked with social development that has made Grootbos an award-winning world leader in responsible tourism.
Highlights of the Tour
A four day package to Grootbos Nature Reserve with meals and activities included. Watch whales along the Whale Coast. A part of South Africa’s Atlantic Ocean coastline, the Whale Coast around Grootbos Nature Reserve has spectacular scenery and charming seaside villages. During the right season, whales can be seen breaching and splashing in the waters.
Bee & Honey Breakfast Experience at Grootbos. Get an early-morning buzz as you kit up in protective beekeeping gear and visit the beehives dotted around the reserve accompanied by the resident beekeeper. Learn how to harvest, filter and bottle this incredibly rare fynbos honey. Enjoy a unique honey-themed breakfast at the farm under the ancient Milkwood Trees of Grootbos Private Reserve.
Guided Walks at Grootbos
One of the many activities offered at Grootbos is guided walks. These guided walks are typically led by experienced naturalists and field guides who are knowledgeable about the local ecosystem, wildlife, and indigenous plant species. Guided walks at Grootbos focus on interpreting the natural environment. Guides often share insights into the diverse plant life, including the famous fynbos vegetation, which is unique to the Cape Floral Kingdom and boasts a remarkable variety of species. They also discuss the ecological relationships between different species and the role of each in the ecosystem.
Horse riding
Horse riding at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve can be a wonderful way to explore the stunning landscapes and natural beauty of this South African reserve. Grootbos offers various horse riding trails that wind through the diverse landscapes of the reserve. These trails can take you through ancient forests, fynbos-covered hills, and along the rugged coastline. The routes are carefully selected to showcase the natural beauty of the area.
Boma Dinner Experience
The dinner is usually held in an outdoor setting, often in a specially designed area resembling a traditional African Boma. This might be a circular or rectangular space, sometimes with an open-air bonfire in the center. Being in an outdoor setting, Boma dinners offer an opportunity to enjoy the clear night sky. Stargazing can be an added bonus, especially in areas with minimal light pollution.
Nature, Marine & Coastal drives
Combining a visit to the Walker Bay Nature Reserve, the De Kelders cliff walk, Klipgat Cave, and seasonal land-based whale watching (which typically occurs from July to December) is a fantastic way to experience the natural beauty and marine life of the South African coast, specifically in the area around Hermanus and Gansbaai. Start your journey at Walker Bay Nature Reserve, which is renowned for its rugged coastline, sand dunes, and diverse fynbos vegetation.