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Three and half hours from Oudtshoorn or two hours from Cape Town, lies Touws Rivier town. As the first town of the Karoo, coming from the Cape, it is known as the “Gateway to the Karoo” and driving the other direction: “Gateway to the Boland”. This Central Karoo town has one of the richest and most diverse histories and once played a crucial role in the developing railway sector of South Africa. Touws River has seen the humble bushman trek across its vast undulating planes, witnessed the Griekwas briefly find refuge here and can give testimony to the arrival of man and machine.
It is here in Touws Rivier, in a valley between the Langeberg and the Outeniqua Mountains in the Karoo, where you’ll find the 10,000-hectare conservancy Aquila Private Game Reserve & Spa. This malaria-free private game reserve is home to an abundance of animal and birdlife, including the legendary big 5; elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard, and rhino. Go on exciting early morning- and late afternoon game drives when the wildlife is most active, as they tend to rest in the heat of the day. Qualified field guides track the animals and interpret nature, allowing you to sit back, relax and enjoy. The safari drives last 2–3 hours depending on how much time is spent at each sighting, and evenings include a sundowner stop at one of the popular lookouts in the game reserve.
Aquila is more than just an unforgettable wildlife experience; it is a luxurious South African adventure acclaimed for its service excellence, renewable energy initiatives, experience in luxurious African hospitality, traditional culinary delights, and the restoration of pride to the indigenous people and the land. Aquila is dedicated to social responsibility efforts and conservation programs, making it a truly remarkable destination.
The reserve has a large swimming pool with a poolside bar, serving cocktails and ice-cold beverages around the 35m long crystal-clear, infinity pool. There are two large, dedicated dining areas and an African-style restaurant that serves local cuisine and traditional South African dessert. As a staying guest, you will have access to the mezzanine-level bar and lounge with magnificent views of the reserve. For some added adventure, who not substitute a game drive for a horseback or quad bike safari? The Tranquila Spa adds to the world-class facilities and services Aquila offers. Here, you can enjoy a luxurious African treatment and unwind after an action-packed day. The spa boasts a heated indoor pool, outdoor pool, sauna, steam room, and ten treatment rooms; it is a masterpiece of luxury. Aquila promises a serene escape immersed in nature's tranquillity. From luxurious accommodations to breathtaking wildlife encounters, it offers an unforgettable experience under the starlit African sky.
The famous Cape Route 62 is a tourist route connecting the Western and Eastern Cape. Not only is it the world’s longest wine route a whopping 850km, Route 62 has also been named the world’s best road trip destination by CNN Travel, offering a scenic alternative to the N2 highway. The easily accessible towns along Route 62 all offer ample opportunity for discovery. From visits to wineries and game reserves, tribal art, cultural tours, museums and for the more adventurous, hiking trails and mountain climbing, 4x4 routes, canoeing, horse riding, fishing and caving. Route 62 is an exciting experience, even for the well-travelled. Stop for lunch at one of the diners in the town of Barrydale, nestled at the foot of the majestic Langeberg Mountain range. This vintage town has quirkiness written all over it, an oasis with charm. It is here where you can find Diesel & Crème’s famous mouthwatering gourmet milkshakes. After a long day's travel unwind in one of the region's invigorating hot springs, revel in luxury or relax in rustic tranquillity, a journey to the unexpected. As you follow Route 62, the natural beauty of the region’s mountains, fauna, rivers, valleys and plains is evident. The diverse scenery and vegetation change as you make your way into the Karoo, a semi-desert area.
The iconic town of Oudtshoorn lies in the Klein Karoo (Little Karoo) bordering the picturesque Garden Route region halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha).
Primarily known as the ostrich capital of the world, Oudtshoorn has quickly gained the reputation of being a cultural, heritage and adventure sport hotspot. Encompassed by unique landscapes, the town is centred between the awe-inspiring Swartberg and Outeniqua mountain ranges. The history and development of Oudtshoorn are inextricably connected with the growth of the ostrich feather industry from as early as 1860. Ostriches still form a vital part of the trade today, from tourism to agriculture. Come and meet the large flightless birds, ride an ostrich, buy ostrich curios and even sample the famous ostrich steak. There is nothing like a Karoo night sky. The clarity of the sky above Oudtshoorn is practically unparalleled, the Milky Way arcs over you like a giant swathe of smoke. Situated not far from Oudtshoorn is the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere and among the largest in the world. With an average rainfall of less than 150mm a year, Oudtshoorn is the ideal location for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the wonders of nature in one of the nearby nature reserves. This town of wonders is sure to impress with its plethora of offerings and classic country lifestyle. Enjoy some of the local Karoo cuisines with a crisp chardonnay, craft beer or gin, admire the fauna and flora, or take a plunge in the world’s first crocodile cage dive.
A visit to Oudtshoorn is not complete without seeing the world-famous Cango Caves, Africa's largest heritage show cave system and a spectacular underground wonder of the Klein Karoo. Some of the biggest stalagmite formations in the world are set in Precambrian limestone (a time about 4500 million years ago). The spectacular dripstone caverns with their vast halls and towering formations are one of the world's great natural wonders, sculptured by nature through the ages.
Cape Aloes (Aloe ferox) are in full bloom in the Western Cape and Karoo region. Apart from its skin-soothing and healing properties, it is also an immune system stimulant. European explorers, traders and settlers ventured around the tip of Africa and into Southern Africa where they encountered the Khoisan - the world’s most ancient people. The Khoisan had been using Aloe ferox as medicine for thousands of years. We know this because Aloe ferox is one of the few plants depicted in Bushmen cave paintings in South Africa, showing humans depicted alongside Aloe Ferox, which indicates they made use of it. The first evidence of Aloe ferox being used commercially was in 1761. The story goes that a slave working for a farmer named Johannes Petrus de Wit showed him the age-old art of tapping aloes to derive the medicinal bitters or ‘lump’ from the plant – which is a most effective laxative. This was then supplied to the Dutch East India Company and exported to Europe. The Khoisan’s medicinal plant knowledge was part of their oral tradition. A demonstration of aloe tapping, using the same traditional method the Bushman used, can be seen when visiting the Allcare Aloe Centre. The 400 species of aloe that exist in the world are indigenous only to Africa and Madagascar, with a few species in Yemen. Aloe is the world’s greatest plant.
The Garden Route is the most visited stretch of coastline in South Africa. Travelling along the Garden Route is a breathtaking journey where dolphins joyfully frolic in the crashing waves, waterfalls cascade in graceful descent, lagoons shimmer with an inviting allure, forests beckon with their lush greenery, and beaches and mountains unfold their majestic beauty at every bend of the road. The possibilities for enjoyment during your stay here are endless, catering to all ages and interests. From invigorating hikes and captivating whale watching to leisurely strolls along sandy shores, heart-pounding bungee jumping, abseiling and enchanting treetop canopy tours, there is something to thrill every traveller. Without a doubt, exploring the Garden Route will be one of the most memorable highlights of your South Africa holiday.
Combining a stunning landscape and a pleasant Mediterranean climate, the Garden Route offers a delightful blend of sunshine and picturesque views. The winter months boast gentle and moderate conditions, while the summer provides warmth without discomfort. Winter brings ample rainfall, resulting in lush forests, flowing rivers, and vibrant blooming flowers throughout the region. Today, the magnificence of the Garden Route is no longer a well-kept secret. It has become one of Africa's most sought-after tourist destinations, surpassing expectations within South Africa itself. The area remains bustling throughout the year, even during the low season, necessitating advanced booking. With an abundance of captivating sights and activities, it is a place that demands ample time to be fully appreciated. Indulge in a few nights at uniquely remarkable accommodations and embark on unforgettable adventures that will stay with you forever.
Nestled in the heart of the Garden Route, Knysna is a charming town that exudes a certain allure. With its breathtaking view of a pristine lagoon situated between two magnificent sandstone headlands, the town's waterfront thrives as a vibrant centre, adorned with exquisite boutique restaurants, offering delectable seafood and locally harvested Knysna oysters. Embraced by a captivating indigenous forest, Knysna serves as an ideal launching pad for embarking on adventures in the central region of the Garden Route. However, once you find yourself in this enchanting town, tearing yourselves away might prove to be quite the challenge!
The Garden Route is bursting with vibrant plant life and teems with abundant wildlife. There are countless nature reserves to explore, offering enchanting forest trails leading to cascading waterfalls and coastal paths unveiling hidden beaches and breathtaking cliff-top vistas. Among the cherished destinations along this route, the Featherbed Reserve stands out as a favourite. This truly unique 150-hectare private reserve blankets the entire Western Head in Knysna and holds the esteemed status of being one of South Africa's Natural Heritage Sites. From Featherbed, you can gaze upon the serene lagoon of Knysna behind you while casting your eyes forward to witness the mighty crash of the ocean waves. In terms of wildlife, Featherbed proudly hosts two iconic species of the Garden Route—the Knysna Loerie and the Blue Duiker, one of Africa's smallest antelope species. Its remarkable inhabitants also include the majestic Blue Crane, the national bird of South Africa, the Cape Mountain Tortoise, and the rare and endangered Black Oystercatcher. Daily boat trips to Featherbed are available, accompanied by an excellent variety of tour options to suit every preference.
Among the cherished destinations along this route, the Featherbed Reserve stands out as a favourite. This truly unique 150-hectare private reserve blankets the entire Western Head in Knysna and holds the esteemed status of being one of South Africa's Natural Heritage Sites. From Featherbed, you can gaze upon the serene lagoon of Knysna behind you while casting your eyes forward to witness the mighty crash of the ocean waves. In terms of wildlife, Featherbed proudly hosts two iconic species of the Garden Route—the Knysna Loerie and the Blue Duiker, one of Africa's smallest antelope species. Its remarkable inhabitants also include the majestic Blue Crane, the national bird of South Africa, the Cape Mountain Tortoise, and the rare and endangered Black Oystercatcher. Daily boat trips to Featherbed are available, accompanied by an excellent variety of tour options to suit every preference.
Elephants possess an enchanting allure that captivates the senses, making it impossible to resist their gentle magnificence. Along the Garden Route, a unique opportunity awaits to intimately engage with these majestic creatures. Knysna Elephant Park offers fully interactive elephant experiences that are sure to leave an indelible mark, enhancing the magic of your South Africa holiday. Each elephant in these sanctuaries has been saved from culling operations as abandoned individuals, so your visit serves as a significant support for a noble purpose. Prepare to be enthralled as you embark on this unforgettable adventure, where the charm of these incredible animals will leave an everlasting impression.
The Knysna Forest is a captivating wilderness of towering trees, sprawling vines, and sun-drenched trails. Encompassing 80,000 hectares, it is one of the largest remaining forested areas in South Africa, home to ancient trees over 800 years old. This remarkable terrain is perfect for invigorating walks and thrilling mountain biking, revealing picturesque waterfalls, rivers, and grazing antelope amidst its lush foliage.
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The famous Cape Route 62 is a tourist route connecting the Western and Eastern Cape. Not only is it the world’s longest wine route, a whopping 850km, Route 62 has also been named the world’s best road trip destination by CNN Travel, offering a scenic alternative to the N2 highway. The easily accessible towns along Route 62 all offer ample opportunity for discovery. From visits to wineries and game reserves, tribal art, cultural tours, museums and for the more adventurous, hiking trails and mountain climbing, 4x4 routes, canoeing, horse riding, fishing and caving. Route 62 is an exciting experience, even for the well-travelled. Stop for lunch at one of the diners in the town of Barrydale, nestled at the foot of the majestic Langeberg mountain range. This vintage town has quirkiness written all over it, an oasis with charm. It is here where you can find Diesel & Crème’s famous mouthwatering gourmet milkshakes. After a long day's travel unwind in one of the region's invigorating hot-springs, revel in luxury or relax in rustic tranquillity, a journey to the unexpected. As you follow Route 62, the natural beauty of the region’s mountains, fauna, rivers, valleys and plains are evident. The diverse scenery and vegetation changes as you make your way into the Karoo, a semi-desert area.
The iconic town of Oudtshoorn lies in the Klein Karoo (Little Karoo) bordering the picturesque Garden Route region halfway between Cape Town and Port Elizabeth (Gqeberha). Primarily known as the ostrich capital of the world, Oudtshoorn has quickly gained the reputation of being a cultural, heritage and adventure sport hotspot. Encompassed by unique landscapes, the town is centred between the awe-inspiring Swartberg and Outeniqua mountain ranges. The history and development of Oudtshoorn is inextricably connected with the growth of the ostrich feather industry from as early as 1860. Ostriches still form a vital part of the trade today; from tourism to agriculture. Come and meet the large flightless birds, ride an ostrich, buy ostrich curios and even sample the famous ostrich steak. There is nothing like a Karoo night sky. The clarity of the sky above Oudtshoorn is practically unparalleled, the Milky Way arcs over you like a giant swathe of smoke. Situated not far from Oudtshoorn is the Southern African Large Telescope (SALT), the largest single optical telescope in the southern hemisphere and among the largest in the world. With an average rainfall of less than 150mm a year, Oudtshoorn is the ideal location for outdoor activities such as hiking, cycling, and exploring the wonders of nature in one of the nearby nature reserves. This town of wonders is sure to impress with its plethora of offerings and classic country lifestyle. Enjoy some of the local Karoo cuisines with a crisp chardonnay, craft beer or gin, admire the fauna and flora, or take a plunge in the world’s first crocodile cage dive.
A visit to Oudtshoorn is not complete without seeing the world-famous Cango Caves, Africa's largest heritage show cave system and a spectacular underground wonder of the Klein Karoo. Some of the biggest stalagmite formations in the world set in Precambrian limestone (a time about 4500 million years ago). The spectacular dripstone caverns with their vast halls and towering formations is one of the world's great natural wonders, sculptured by nature through the ages.
Cape Aloes (Aloe ferox) are in full bloom in the Western Cape and Karoo region. Apart from its skin-soothing and healing properties, it is also an immune system stimulant. European explorers, traders and settlers ventured around the tip of Africa and into Southern Africa where they encountered the Khoisan - the world’s most ancient people. The Khoisan had been using Aloe ferox as medicine for thousands of years. We know this because Aloe ferox is one of the few plants depicted in Bushmen cave paintings in South Africa, showing humans depicted alongside Aloe ferox, which indicates they made use of it. The first evidence of Aloe ferox being used commercially was in 1761. The story goes that a slave working for a farmer named Johannes Petrus de Wit showed him the age-old art of tapping aloes to derive the medicinal bitters or ‘lump’ from the plant – which is a most effective laxative. This was then supplied to the Dutch East India Company and exported to Europe. The Khoisan’s medicinal plant knowledge was part of their oral tradition. A demonstration of aloe tapping, using the same traditional method the Bushman used, can be seen when visiting the Allcare Aloe centre. The 400 species of aloe that exist in the world are indigenous only to Africa and Madagascar, with a few species in Yemen. Aloe, the world’s greatest plant.
Just an hour's drive inland from Cape Town, at the heart of the Cape Winelands you will find South Africa’s so-called Golden Triangle; Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. In the shadow of a continuous belt of Cape fold mountains, lies a series of generous valleys known as the Cape Winelands – a collection of historic towns, little hamlets and Cape Dutch farmsteads that provide well-regarded South African wines to the world. A great deal of the allure of the winelands is owed to the spectacular natural setting. These mountains create an incredible scenic backdrop, but they are also one of the reasons wines do so well here. Their geological compositions provide unique soil conditions that directly affect the character of wine.
The Franschhoek Wine Route is characterized by an inherent French flair. The town itself is rich with Huguenot history. Franschhoek (or "French Corner") is named for the French Huguenots who settled here in the 18th century. Blessed with perhaps the most perfect setting of any winelands town, it is also South Africa's unofficial food and wine gastronomic capital, offering a world-class gourmet experience. The ideal place to settle in for an alfresco lunch.
Paarl (Afrikaans for "pearl") is named for the polished granite domed mountain that rises behind it. Founded in 1720, Paarl feels rather unattractive by Boland standards, but its wine route includes some of the finest vineyards and several first-class restaurants. The Paarl Wine Route is also called the 'Red Route' for its legendary red wines. Cabernet Sauvignon, port and Shiraz wines have established Paarl's place on the global wine map and the region has repeatedly received international awards for these wines. Nothing complements a good glass of wine quite like a good cheese. This delectable culinary tradition has extended to the Boland as well, and some of South Africa's finest cheeses are produced in this region. It is here where you’ll find wine farms like Fairview, popular for its cheese and wine pairing and Spice Route known for its much-loved chocolate, gin, beer, wine, and ice cream tastings – and good food.
The Stellenbosch Wine Route is South Africa's oldest wine route. This architectural jewel is the second-oldest town in South Africa, and lies at the heart of the winelands. Stellenbosch was founded in 1679 by the Dutch Governor Simon van der Stel. Some of South Africa's finest wines are cultivated in this scenic region. South Africa's high-quality olive oils have started making waves in the international circuit, often beating out heavyweights like Italy, Spain and Greece. The Boland's Mediterranean-like climate provides ideal conditions for groves to flourish.
Set against the backdrop of the majestic Langeberg mountain range, the Garden Route Game Lodge guards the entrance to South Africa’s world-famous Garden Route Coast. This malaria-free family-owned private game reserve is home to an abundance of animal and birdlife, including the Big 5. See lions, elephants, white rhinos, Cape buffalos, cheetahs, the elusive Cape mountain leopard, a rare treat to spot on safari, along with giraffes, zebras, numerous antelope species, black wildebeest and more. Get your cameras ready! Seeing these majestic animals face to face is unforgettable. This reserve has a dramatic landscape that supports a wide variety of plants, animals and birds. The game reserve borders the Overberg District where more than half of the remaining population of the threatened Blue Crane reside, expect to witness these graceful birds in flight and hear their distinctive loud call.
Go on exciting early morning- and late afternoon game drives when the wildlife is most active, as they tend to rest in the heat of the day. Qualified field guides track the animals and interpret nature, allowing you to sit back, relax and enjoy. The safari drives last 2 – 3 hours depending on how much time is spent at each sighting and evenings includes a sundowner stop at one of the popular lookouts in the game reserve.
Enjoy the view from the Serengeti restaurant, go for a swim in one of the pools or enjoy an educational tour with a resident curator; from the deadly Black Mamba to the mighty Anaconda, home to 28 different snake species, Nile crocodiles, tortoises and rock monitors. Take a guided Game Walk or go mountain biking (the trail is rated medium difficulty). Indulge in Afternoon Tea or pamper yourself at the Ayana Spa.
Dining in the Serengeti Restaurant is a relaxed affair where guests can enjoy one of their famous traditional South African dishes from the a la carte menu while reflecting on the days’ activities. An interactive dining experience where safari cuisine is prepared to your liking. The expansive wooden decks overlooking the valleys below allow guests to relax and unwind to the sounds of the African night.
Jakkalsvlei offers a delightful wine experience nearby. The Garden Route Game Lodge is an ideal haven from which to explore the wonders of the Garden Route and Klein Karoo.
Perched on the southern tip of the African continent, Cape Town is a superlatively beautiful city with stunning scenery at almost every turn. It is hard to miss the backdrop of the mighty Table Mountain, Cape Town’s crowning glory, and the bright glittering ocean that arcs around the coastline. If the time spent marvelling at nature proves too much, the city has a plethora of historic sites waiting to be explored. At the V&A Waterfront, rundown Victorian warehouses have been lovingly converted to a bustling cultural and commercial hub. Cape Town is South Africa’s most accessible gateway, with gorgeous beaches, vibrant, multicultural neighbourhoods, famous vineyards and fine dining to rival any European capital.
Cape Town’s dramatic coastline to the south of Camps Bay is ruggedly beautiful and as part of the Table Mountain National Park, it’s largely undeveloped. Follow the famous Chapmans’ Peak past the brooding Twelve Apostles, the spine of mountains that run down to Cape Point, while the ocean pounds on the rocks below. It is not too far from here at Cape Agulhas, the most southern tip of the Africa continent, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet.
If the landscape sounds diverse, wait until you meet the people of South Africa. With 11 official languages and more than a dozen tribes, living alongside communities from Africa, Europe and the Indian subcontinent – little wonder we are known as the Rainbow Nation. This diversity is tangible everywhere, from the architecture and language to the nation’s spectacular cuisine and colours.
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My challenge was not only difficult and an enormous challenge physically, but mentally as well. In the process, I raised awareness for EDS and believe that every person with EDS (Ehlers-Danlos Syndrome) and the people affected by it, should have access to the appropriate medical services, care, and support. From the beginning, my desire was to spread a message of hope.
Faith, not Fear.
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