Internationale groepsreis South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

Amazing experience! Great balance between walking and wildlife and a really diverse trip, you feel like you are seeing a lot of the country without being rushed. Scenery is stunning and perfect for walking. Campsites are fantastic, food amazing. Really lovely, well paced and interesting trip with fantastic opportunity to spot the big 5!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Spotting Cheetha close up on foot and seeing a kill..fantastic moment! The Drakensberg mountains were stunning, loved the two walks there. Whole camping experience, beers around the fire, everyone swapping wildlife photos, great atmosphere.

What did you think of your group leader?

Both Bongani and Shawn were excellent leaders, they really went the extra mile and worked very hard to make the trip run like clockwork and it did. Both have a great sense of humour and made it fun and interesting.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

I would reccomend doing all of the optional game drives. You never know what you might see. We were really lucky to see so many animals up close.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Just make the most of it. This is one off experience you'll never forget.

South Africa Wildlife and Walking

A good mix of wildlife watching in a number of areas and walking in the Drakensberg Mountains

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The view of The Amphitheatre in the Drakensberg

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader, Colly, and his assistants were excellent. They were patient and knowledgeable. It was great to witness young men with such a passion for their surroundings.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

My only reservation is that I didn't get to the ladders on The Sentinel climb. My advice is to NOT LOOK DOWN at the exposed sections (I didn't do this). Your leaders will make sure you are safe the whole way.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

South Africa: Walking and Wildlife

Difficult to sum up as we were offered such a wealth of experiences on this holiday. However revelling in the wonders of the natural world, whether specifically looking for wildlife, or walking in the mountains and hills, was a constant.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Again, there were any number. However, getting out a a 4X4 in a game reserve, walking cautiously and quietly in line behind our ranger with his rifle, to come over the top of a rise to find hippos and crocs in front of us in the river.

What did you think of your group leader?

We had three leaders who worked incredibly hard, driving, shopping, cooking, clearing up and keeping us informed about what we were seeing. They were all skilled, knowledgeable and thoroughly professional. They also guided and safeguarded us on walks with patience and understanding.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

We were very lucky to find ourselves to be a friendly and confident tour group so were able to rely on others for support as well as our guides. I found it useful to have a hydration bladder, rather than fumbling about with water bottles, in my backpack, and, having some concerns about my elderly knees, I used trekking poles for every walk; all was well.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We were fortunate with the support of our guides, our fellow-travellers and the weather, along with the amazing things we saw and did on this trip. It was a brilliant experience.

Walking and Wildlife South Africa

A very varied holiday, filled daily with new adventures so that it felt longer than 2 weeks. The animal sightings on safari and the early morning estuary trip were thrilling and the views on the mountain walks breathtaking. The added excitement of panning for gold, the aspects of historical interest (Anglo-Zulu war) and a day at the beach whale watching made this trip truly memorable.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing a whale launch itself out of the Indian Ocean, do a somersault and land with an almighty splash. Seeing a leopard stroll past the rear bumper of the van. Seeing a group of baby elephants taking a mudbath and an oxpecker (bird) disappear into the ear of an Impala. Seeing the glorious Drakensburg draped in mist, which then melted away to leave a crystal clear deep blue sky. See an African Paradise flycatcher flit through the trees with its orange ribbon tail floating in the breeze. Eating the delicious S African cuisine prepared by our superb guides under the stars, washed down with some excellent S African vintage.

What did you think of your group leader?

Colly was first class. He was so concerned about our welfare and worked so hard to make sure EVERYONE was having a good time. He never rested really. Also extremely well organized and everything was beautifully organized, on-time and under control. He did also chat and have fun with the group. Definitely "DANGEROUS" when it came to Uno.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for a range of temperatures, the plains are very hot and the mountains cold. Some longish transfers, so be prepared with entertainment. Washing and toilet facilities everywhere were excellent-even in Kruger where there was a shared toilet block and an enormous bath. Mosquitoes were not too much of a problem, but some insect repellent needed. Don't forget some binoculars, or you will miss out. Birders, you will not be bored or disappointed! Not many maps provided, and I wished I had one to trace our route. Easy to purchase wine at supermarket stops--LOTS of good quality S African wine VERY reasonably priced. (Didn't sample the beer, so no comment there).

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Relax and enjoy. If you want a varied holiday, not too strenuous, but not too idle, with good facilities and some adventure go for this. You won't regret it.

South Africa Walking and Wildlife

I had booked this holiday because of the variety of activities on offer and it didn't disappoint. My main interest was the hillwalking and this was superb in all locations, however I found the safari part of the holiday just as enjoyable. The sights we saw, such as the cloud inversion at God's Window, were also stunning.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

All of the walks offered something unique and I enjoyed them all. I was surprised by how lush the countryside was in Swaziland and it was a very picturesque walk. The scenery and views in the Drakensberg were stunning and all of the walks here were excellent. I particularly enjoyed our scrambling up the Crack. Unfortunately we were not able to go up the chain ladders to the top of the amphitheatre due to high winds. Our guide made the right call on this one but we still managed to get some spectacular views from the viewpoint slightly further down. The whole Drakensberg experience was awe inspiring, helped by the location of our lodge in the Royal Natal National Park.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our main leader Andy was outstanding. He has a fantastic personality, which really helped to bolster our group spirit, and he was also passionate about all the activities and very hard-working throughout the trip. He was a great help to me personally when I needed medical attention halfway during the trip. Andy was assisted ably by Colly and David. Nothing was too much bother for them and they did everything with a smile.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The trip notes are very informative. I would also add that walking poles would be very useful, albeit not essential. I think the walking part of the trip is fairly graded as a 3. The walks are not overly long, but do require a reasonable level of fitness. There was also a fair degree of scrambling required on our second last walk. I would reiterate previous reviews about some long transfers on the minibus. A good supply of reading materials and music kept me occupied. However, I personally would not change the itinerary as each of our stopovers had something unique to offer.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I can't praise this holiday highly enough. We had a great group spirit and one of the most enjoyable things for me was simply the companionship each night after the day's activities. Our nights round the campfire at the private game reserve are particularly memorable. Add to this an action-packed itinerary with splendid walking and sightseeing opporunities and it truly was a spectacular holiday.

walking and wildlife

The whole trip was fantastic. The only downside was the failure to inform the leader of my requirement for a gluten free diet. I don't think Ende had even heard of the condition, but, when it was explained to him he coped brilliantly even to the extent of preparing my main dish separately.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing elephants in the wild for the first time is always a thrill. I have seen them on several occasions but it is always a thrill.The lodges at Royal Natal park and in Swaziland together with the views were something special

What did you think of your group leader?

Ende was fantastic he organized everything brilliantly. I would happily go with him again, also I cannot speak to highly of Collie and Marco who were very knowledgeable and interesting to listen to.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go for this one

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Make sure the people on the ground know about special diets.

South Africa Walking & Wildlife

We booked this trip for our Honeymoon, it was something we always wanted to do and we enjoy trekking. We said we would keep a very open mind when getting to South Africa as we didn't expect to see a lot of animals or didn't know what to expect with the accommodation. Well, we were completely blown away with what we saw on this trip, within the first evening on the safari we saw Elephants, Giraffes, Buffalo, Impala and Wildebeest. The accommodation was very good, clean and tidy. Our favourite place we stayed was Mtomeni Safari camp in Letaba Ranch Reserve, this was the true safari experience for us. There was no electricity so bring your torch, sat round the fire, taken back to our tent in the evening by a guide with a riffle just in case we had an unexpected visitor!!. Waking up in the morning to site of the beautiful river with some monkey playing outside of tent was brilliant! Kruger Park was not as touristy as we thought it would be, the camp sites were really good and the showering facilities were very clean. Seeing all the animals so close to our van was incredible. It was almost like the animals were just as interested in us as we were in them! The walking comes later in the trip mainly, the mountains were breath-taking. The scenery surrounding our accommodation was amazing. Drakensberg is such a beautiful place and easily somewhere you could go back in the future for more walks.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The highlight of the trip was seeing Elephants walking in a line, crossed the road with their young (who kept looking back at us) it just fantastic and something I only dreamed I was see. It totally made our trip and was a dream come true! Also the safari game walk was a brilliant activity. Our guides Craig and Edwin were brilliant and very friendly. We tracked a giraffe then saw it in the distance. It was great to learn so much from him and being in the bush on foot was amazing an experience we will never forget.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader was Ende and he was absolutely incredible as were our 2 other guides Colly and Marco. They were all very knowledgeable on the animals, birds, trees, plants etc we saw and could identify every we saw (even when we were quite far away!) The meals were excellent and so tasty, every meal was different. We really enjoyed their company and are hoping to stay in touch in the future. Anyone who gets these 3 guys as guides will be very lucky and are sure to have an amazing time.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The drives can be very long on some days driving to different places so maybe take a book or something to occupy yourself. However the guides have a library on the van with lots of wildlife/birds etc which you are welcome to read.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This trip is two holidays in one, with the safari and trekking, the trekking mainly comes in the second half when you head for the mountains. Due to the weather being so hot our walks we a little limited but only for our safety. This trip really is something special so definitely do not hesitate to book this one!!

South Africa Walking and Wildlife

I loved the variety of this trip. The accommodation ranged from lodges to mountain huts to tents. The activities covered day hikes and game drives. The scenery went from cool mountain plateaus to hot lowlands to lovely beaches. The organisation was streamlined.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking the Sentinal track was amazing.

What did you think of your group leader?

Both our group leaders, David and Andrew, were all we could wish for - happy, thoughtful, efficient and caring. Collie was a quick learner.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take fewer clothes, a good zoom lens camera and good binoculars.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I'd recommend this trip to everyone.

South African Walking Safari

This trip has the perfect blend of hiking and wildlife. Without exception the walks were stunning, and the game viewing in Karongwe and Kruger plentiful and awe-inspiring.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being only a few metres from an adult male lion in Karongwe. He had his back to us, but would look round every now and again, not at all bothered by our prescence. The endless views in the Drakensburg, from the imposing amphitheatre to that 'top of the world' feeling at Sentinel Peak.

What did you think of your group leader?

David, Andrew and Coli achieved legendary status in my eyes. I have never known one guide work so hard to ensure a trip runs smoothly, let alone three! Pitching and striking tents, preparing all our delicious meals, and driving us thousands of kilometres so we could see so much of this beautiful country, all the while providing great company and humour along the way. Give them all a medal.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

If you can't stand the heat, don't travel in November.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I genuinely don't think I can top this trip, but I'll continue to travel the world trying. ;-)

South African Walking Safari Aug 2015

A fantastic trip which gave us a some highlights of South Africa. We really enjoyed the Drakensberg area and especially loved the chain ladders! Walking in the indigenous forest was a great experience. We enjoyed the 2 nights in Swaziland as the area was very scenic and the walking good. Visiting the Karongwe and Kruger was so worthwhile - we saw so many animals, birds and plants. Our day on the beach at Cape Vidal was great fun and we loved the big waves and the white sand, a real opportunity to relax at the half way point

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

The early morning walking safari in Karongwe Private Reserve was really amazing: we had a close encounter with rhino and learnt so much about plants and animals. My highlight though was the evening driven safari, also in Karongwe, where we left the vehicle to watching a cheetah eat her kill, standing just a few feet away, we watched for 10 minutes - totally incredible! We also saw 2 porcupines and a civet in the headlights. Wow!

What did you think of your group leader?

Ende (Andy) and David were fantastic! They were both so enthusiastic and worked so hard to give us an amazing holiday experience. Ende's cooking was fantastic, every meal was tasty, well prepared and vegetarians well catered for. Both were very knowledgeable about the animals and plants we saw and we had interesting discussions about some of the local customs.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Take books/Kindle to occupy yourself during the long drives. Some of the walking in the Drakensberg may worry vertigo sufferers but there was nothing technically difficult. Rehydration tablets/sachets useful on very hot walking days ( it was much hotter than we expected)

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Go for it!!

My wonderful walking safari

This trip was fantastic. The guides, David and Ende were very knowledgeable, and excellent cooks!! They had a trainee, Colly, with them who knew a lot about tracking and local knowledge. We saw so many animals. It was wonderful to see them in their natural surroundings. I really enjoyed the walks, which were varied. However, the weather, and time beat us on Sentinel Peak, which was disappointing, but it is expected as it's winter in South Africa at the moment. A truly wonderful trip. I recommend it wholeheartedly!!

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Too many to mention. I loved everything!

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leaders were all great. very good communicators, and excellent cooks!! All were very knowledgeable.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for a very rocky climb on Sentinel Peak.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

South African Walking Safari

Fantastic trip. Such a variation of landscape and scenery. From wide open prairie, rainforest jungle and wild bushland to golden sand beaches, the Indian Ocean and souring mountains... we had it all. Oh, and too many wild life encounters along the way to actually list here in this short review.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Seeing the Drakensberg and the Indian Ocean at St Lucia.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leaders were just fantastic. Really nice guys. This being a camping/lodge/cabin based kind of trip meant that we had two guides, David and Endi, but we also a third in Coli who was learning the ropes. The three guys were knowledgeable about pretty much everything and the amount of stuff that they did each day to make sure that the trip ran to plan and everyone was happy was just phenomenal. Two solid weeks of driving, guiding, setting up camp and cooking and they were still smiling at the end.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Pack for all seasons. We went in July, end of winter in SA. I almost didn't take up on the advice of packing a 3/4 season sleeping, but I was glad that I did. The nights got cold, but during the day it was warm enough for t shirt and shorts. We even laid around on the beach and splashed around in the Indian Ocean for a day before heading up into Drakensberg where we had a little sleet and snow. It all added to the fantastic contrast of the two weeks though.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

South African Walking Safari

This was an amazing holiday, we packed so much in and saw so much it will be difficult to choose a highlight. The guides were very good and made sure we were happy, safe, well fed and enjoyed every minute.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

We actually saw the big five as well as seeing a black Rhino which was fantastic and totally unexpected. We were up close and personal to all the animals and we saw some amazing and rare birdlife which was a bonus.

What did you think of your group leader?

Our leader was very passionate and knowledgable about his country and what it contained, from the smallest of grasses to the biggest of animals. He was able to answer any questions we had and he made sure we packed as much in to the time we had.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared for some long drives in the bus, it is very comfortable and well worth the time spent as we covered a lot of ground and saw a lot of the country. Early mornings are also part of the trip this is to ensure you see and do as much as possible while you are there.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

This is my third trip with Exodus and once again they have allowed me to see and do things I would not be able to see and do if I tried to do this independantly. I am already looking in to my next trip with them.

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

Having walked in every continient and completed 11 Exodus trip I feel reasonably well qualified to judge that three of the walks we did on the trip should be included in anyones top day walks of the world. Knowledgeable local staff had the language skills for me to learn more about African wildlife on this trip than two previous safaris. This trip comes very highly recommended by me.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Sharing in the groups euphoria of completing the chain ladder part of walk to the second highest waterfall in the world.

What did you think of your group leader?

We had two. Both were encyclopedic in their knowledge of their counrty and it's wildlife. They could not have done more for us.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go4it

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Excellent value for money

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

Great walking and excellent organisation from experienced and committed guides

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Walking with cheetahs and walking in and around the Drakensberg amphitheatre

What did you think of your group leader?

Outstanding. Committed and professional

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

The long travelling days in the van are the only down side but the experience when you get to your destination is breath taking

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Would have liked the option to spend an extra day in Swaziland and Drakensberg walking

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

A wonderful holiday which really explores the east side of South Africa. Wonderful walks, great game viewing! Could not ask for more.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Being 3000m high in the Drakensberg with wonderful views and a sense of achievement getting up the ladder!

What did you think of your group leader?

Our group leader - Bongani - was great. Very organised and a good cook! Quite quiet though so did not learn that much specifically about S Africa as a country.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Make sure your plug adaptor covers S Africa as a lot in our group didn't and note that there are two guides on the trip with you all the time so when it coming to tipping them - that is twice as much.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Camping is the best way of feeling right in there with the animals! Great great fun. travelled on my own and felt perfectly safe and well looked after.  

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

My first trip with Exodus but I have travelled with similar companies although not including camping.I found the trip to be exactly what I was expecting and as described in the brochure. The camping wasn't arduous at all.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Two things stick in my memory. 1. Being able to walk inside a Game Reserve knowing that the previous evening on a Game drive we had come VERY close to elephants, lion and cheetah with a recent kill. Then on the walk getting very close to the cheetah and her cub. 2. Walking in  the Drakensberg Mountains. One day we walked along the Tugela Gorge and even though the rains hadn't come and the river was virtually dry we had lunch in the riverbed of the gorge (thankfully there was no flash flood!). The following day we made the ascent onto the plateau via the 'terrifying' chain ladders. Unable to climb a ladder at home this was MY achievement of the trip. Coming down was much easier thank goodness.

What did you think of your group leader?

Bongani was an excellent leader. Quiet and efficient but able to impart his knowledge when required. He has a wicked sense of humour which took us a while to suss out. After a few days we just didn't believe anything he told us!! There was a lot of driving during the trip so while we relaxed in the minibus he was working hard and then had the camps to set up on arrival.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

As said before there is a lot of travelling. South Africa is a huge country and the locals think nothing of driving 100's of miles on straight, quiet roads. We rotated our seats around the bus each day as some seats had better views/more legroom than others. As we move about regularly there is a fair bit of packing/unpacking and not much room in the tents to spread. I found using bags to store underwear, shirts, trousers etc in my main pack made getting the following day's clothes ready easier.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Bongani had Shawn as a camp assistant. As he was too young to be insured to drive the bus it meant Bongani had to do all the driving. I did wonder if Bongani was incapacitated for any reason whether our trip would be stuck.

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

Fantastic trip, with great walks, awesome sights and great opportunities to get pretty close to the wildlife. This trip highlights what a diverse country South Africa is when you contrast the high lands with the lowlands. It is truly an experience that will be treasured for life.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

It's hard to pick just one. South Africa was always a dream for me so just being there on a private game reserve with all the wildlife in natural habitat was awesome. Being within 20-30ft of a male lion as it roared. Watching him summon the roar from deepin the pit of his stomach. The hair still stands up on my neck when I think about it.  The contrast in the country, from pine forests and lushness in the Highveld to the barren sparseness of the Lowveld was something I wasn't expecting. Also on our trip we had a change in the itinery and ended up in St Lucia and I wasn't disappointed. All those crocs and Hippos and the Indian ocean breaking in the background as you tried to sleep. The spectacular Drakensberg, and the glamping. The scenery here is breathtaking. The hike up "the ladders" was amazing. Seeing people conquer their fear by going up and the whole group, who were complete strangers a couple of weeks before, totally encouraging each other as if they were friends for years.  Also on our hike in the Drakensberg we had snow. I didn't expect to see snow in South Africa.

What did you think of your group leader?

Bongani, was our leader, and was aided by Shawn and Semanga. Bongani, was great. He put the group at ease. He's got a great sense of humour that might take you a day or two to figure out but when you do he's a lot of fun. He also works hard to make sure the group enjoy themselves. He genuinely cares that everyone have fun and enjoy the trip and looks for feedback every night around the fire and prepares the group for the next day. 

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

There is a lot of travel on this trip between places so be prepared for some long days in the bus. Don't expect to get out of your armchair and enjoy this trip. You need a small level of fitness as some of the walks are long and over undulating terrain and it can get really hot at times. Good shoes or Boots are essential. Some of the campsites only have cold showers so if you don't fancy them take wet wipes. Also a decent headlight/torch because sometimes the tents are a small distance for the facilities. Take a decent camera too.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

I did this trip as a single person and was a little nervous. However I ended up with a fantastic group of people and all those concerns were gone in an instant. The nights around the campfires and the stories will stick with me for a long time. This trip gives you a unique insight into the country and its fantastic scenery and wildlife. I was a little wary of the food, but group leaders did a great job, sometimes in harsh weather conditions, to give us all really good food. It's not five star but for campsite food it was great. I guess the biggest thing I can say about this trip is I didn't want it to end. Like I said, South Africa was  dream of mine to visit, and having done this trip I'm yearning for more. I'd recommend this trip to anyone, who likes the outdoors and has even a mild sense of adventure. 

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

A brilliant trip from start to finish.  There was so much to see and do.  Going in July/Aug  - South African winter was the perfect time for walking and seeing wild life.  A very varied and exciting experience with something new everyday. 

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

Watching two cheetas eating their kill meters away from us as we were led through the bush on foot.  This was an amazing experience.  The trip to the Drakensberg was also very memorable, especially negotiating the metal ladders!  Great stuff!

What did you think of your group leader?

Andrew was a first class tour leader and Admire a excellent back up.  As a team, they made our holiday from preparing lovely food to always getting camp ready quickly.  Their driving was faultless.  

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Go in the winter as there are no insects or bugs and the bush is very thin so there is a much better chance of seeing wild life.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

The change in itinerary by going to the St Lucia on the coast really added to the trip and gave us yet another new experience.  The guided boat trip and walk through the bush was very enjoyable.  Going to the local bar for a sundowner really rounded off the day as we all sat outside by the water, watching the wild life.

SOUTH AFRICAN WALKING SAFARI

A good mix of wildlife and walking.

What was the most inspirational moment of your trip?

A choice between walking within 5 metres of a cheetah in the bush one evening and watching the rainclouds break and disappear in a few minutes to allow us to walk in the Drakensburg without a soaking.

What did you think of your group leader?

Admire was full of energy, information, humour and a pretty good cook too. He and back up man Petros did a fine job leading us around South Africa.

Do you have any advice for potential travellers?

Be prepared to spend very long periods in the minibus-take an iPod or something similar to pass the time. The time spent driving was really the only downside to the trip-the game viewing was excellent (though I STILL haven't seen a leopard in the wild!!!) interspersed with some great and varied walking. The holiday met our expectations. Going in October, we did not expect quite so much rain-55mm overnight whilst camping in the Kruger,-but somehow we managed to dodge most of it, only getting wet a couple of times.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

Your local agents need to provide an awning or dining tent for the days when it rains. On the night in Kruger mentioned above, the guides prepared food in the pouring rain with no shelter, and we ate it in the minibus with puddles in our plates. Funny to look back on but not so great at the time.