Baviaanskloof | Eastern Cape

"The Baviaanskloof is a scenic and mountainous area rich in plants, birds and animals. Join us on a relaxed tour to experience the varied terrain, fauna and flora of this diverse region."

Baviaanskloof | Wilderness Experience

Tour highlights:

• Magnificent scenery of the remote Baviaanskloof and surrounding wilderness area
• Comfortable guest house, B&B and self-catering accommodation (no camping)
• Follow 4x4 route through eastern side of Baviaanskloof, to exit near Patensie
• Variety of vegetation types, animals and birdlife
• Port wine tasting in Calitzdorp

The Baviaanskloof contains seven of the eight biomes found in South Africa, and is one of the eight protected areas within the Cape Floral Kingdom, a World Heritage Site. It has a richness of endemic plant species, an interesting cultural heritage, and a variety of bird and animal life. This wild and sparsely-populated region also acts as a river catchment system for the Kouga Dam and surrounding area.

From Cape Town we travel via Worcester, Montague, Barrydale and Oudtshoorn, continuing to Willowmore, our springboard to the Baviaanskloof. After a night in a wonderful guest house here, we now enter the Baviaanskloof region next morning. We spend three nights in self-catering accommodation as we travel eastwards along Thomas Baines' winding road between the Baviaanskloof- and Kouga mountain ranges. Lush valleys, numerous stream crossings and high mountain passes with spectacular views of the 'folded mountains' and river systems for which the area is known, are just some of the driving highlights.

The fascinating history of the area, together with the treasure-trove of plant, animal and bird species, place this largely undiscovered region high on the list of 'must-see' areas for nature and wilderness lovers. Our return route is via the historical towns of Patensie, Hankey and Steytlerville, with our last overnight stop in B&B accommodation in Calitzdorp, the port wine capital of South Africa. Vist a port wine farm next morning before returning to Cape Town during the afternoon.

This tour is available all year round, and is subject to availability of accommodation. An optional 2-night add-on to visit Addo Elephant Park is also possible - contact us for details and pricing.

Important notes:

• Non-malaria area
• A single soft bag (maximum 60 litre volume) plus small day-pack only is permitted
• All bedding and towels provided
• Breakfast, snack-lunch and dinner is provided daily
• Soft drinks and bottled water included

Contact us for further information on this tour.

We've always wanted to see this remote area of the Eastern Cape, and our private tour with Navigators certainly didn't disappoint. We couldn't have hoped for a more relaxed, well planned, varied and informative introduction to this rugged and beautiful region...

It's hard to believe that such a variety of flora and fauna proliferates in a narrow band between the Kouga and Baviaans mountains. What a magical and unforgettable tour - Chris is a knowledgable and thoroughly professional guide, and we highly recommend that you choose Navigators for your next adventure...

Tour Information

Tour cost includes:

• Transport in 4x4 vehicle with tour guide
• Accommodation & camping costs
• Camping equipment
• Park & reserve entrance & conservation fees
• Meals as specified
• Bottled water & soft drinks
• Specified activities

Fitness level:

Guests should be reasonably fit in order to derive maximum enjoyment from the camping and walking elements of this tour

Essentials:

Warm jacket or jersey, light rain jacket, wide-brimmed hat, sunblock, open shoes, sturdy closed shoes (eg. hiking boots)

Recommended:

Sunglasses, binoculars, camera equipment, anti-bug spray

Distance:

1,500 km Cape Town to Baviaanskloof and Addo, then return to Cape Town