PANORAMA ROUTE ADVENTURE ACTIVITIES

GRASKOP GORGE LIFT

See the Panorama Route from a different angle.

The Graskop Gorge lift Company (Pty) Ltd is the latest and most innovative tourism development in South Africa. The Graskop Gorge Lift Company is your passage into the heart of one of Mpumalanga’s last forested wonderlands. Surrounded by towering cliffs cut back over time by the Motitsi river where its waters plummet 70m into the gorge below forming a natural barrier to all, except for the most adventurous.

Your journey begins as you drop off the grassy cliff top plateau, in a custom designed 26 passenger viewing elevator, down along the cliff face descending into the cool mountain forest below. An extensive network of elevated walkways, suspension bridges and interactive exhibits will lead you along the forest trail, across the stream, keeping one engaged in this natural and pristine environment.

*ENTRANCE FEE: R 50 PER PERSON (Only if not staying at Mogodi Lodge)

SUSPENSION BRIDGE

52m-long Suspension Bridge spans the northern and southern sides of the gorge. Enjoy breath-taking views of the mountains, rugged cliffs face, forests and the Motitsi waterfall while standing 70m above the ground.

LIFT & FOREST EXPERIENCE

Your journey begins as you drop off the grassy cliff top plateau, in a custom designed 26 passenger viewing elevator, down along the cliff face descending into the cool mountain forest below. An extensive 600m (1970 feet) network of elevated walkways, suspension bridges and interactive exhibits will lead you along the forest trail, across the stream, keeping one engaged in this natural and pristine environment.

The viewing lift: Takes you 51m down the face of the gorge into the indigenous forest below.

The Forest walk trail has a number of interpretations exhibits and includes information about the forest, its biodiversity, water conservation, birds and insects. It includes giant replicas of indigenous mushrooms, a huge stained-glass display and much more.

COST: R 225 PER PERSON

ZIPLINE

The course starts from the top of a 5m tower, with 360° views. Participants ride a 120m-long zipline to the northern side of the gorge before walking a short distance along a scenic platform and zipping back along a second zipline of equal length.

COST: R 250 PER PERSON (COMBO BIG SWING & ZIPLINE R 650 PER PERSON)

BIG SWING

The experience is very different to a bungee-jump because participants freefall for 70m before the jump rope pulls them into a high-speed arch and they swing from one side of the gorge to the other. When falling, they reach 140km/h in three seconds.

COST: R 550 PER PERSON (COMBO BIG SWING & ZIPLINE R 650 PER PERSON)

KRUGER NATIONAL PARK

Numerous visitors to the Kruger National Park (KNP) have called this park the focal point of South African National Parks. Being the biggest national park in South Africa, visitors can expect an abundance of wildlife sightings in a pure African bushveld setting as the backdrop.

Visitors need not to worry about how to fill their free time – KNP offers an exciting assortment of activities, each one bent on bringing the guest closer to nature and making them feel at home.

Please Note:

• No children under the age of 6 years will be permitted on an open safari game drive vehicle
• Meet 15 minutes prior to departure time at departure point
• Minimum number of 4 paying Adults required for game drives to depart

MORNING DRIVES (Summer: starts at 04h00 from 1 Oct to 31 March / Winter: starts at 05h00 from 1 Apr to 30 Sep)

Morning drives leave a half hour before official gate opening times, which vary according to the time of year, which means you will be the only guests driving around at that time. The drives’ duration is 3 to 3.5 hours and you will be able to watch the sunrise over unspoilt bush. On your morning drive you will be able to enjoy the tranquility of the Kruger National Park at Sunrise. You will be transported on one of our open vehicles from your camp of residence or entrance gate for an approximately three-hour drive. An experienced guide will interpret the natural bush as well as offer further insight into the ways of the Kruger National Park.

COST: R 490 PER PERSON

SUNSET DRIVES (Summer and Winter: Activity starts at 16h30)

These drives leave the camp before dusk and return after sunset lasting around three hours. Search for grazers in the cool afternoon and predators starting their nightly hunts. Sunset is a time when night animals emerge and a drive during this period is the perfect opportunity to witness the beauty of the bush as it changes from day to night. Learn about fauna and flora from their expert guides and return to camp with a spot-lit night drive.

COST: R 490 PER PERSON

NIGHT DRIVES (Summer and Winter: Activity starts at 20:00)

The only way to see animals of the night, night drives depart at either 19:30 or 20:00 depending on the time of year and last for around two hours. Experienced guides drive the groups to spy on Kruger’s nocturnal creatures and their secretive activities. It is also a wonderful opportunity to view our star filled sky away from city lights.

COST: R 490 PER PERSON

ESWATINI – MLILWANE ACTIVITIES

The freedom to explore Mlilwane is unique. Whatever activity you chose, getting amongst zebra, wildebeest, nyala and blesbok is a daily occurrence. Mlilwane’s wildlife is amazingly tolerant, allowing for unparalleled memories and photographic moments. All said, their animals are wild animals and we request animals are respected.

Pack those binoculars, bird books, water and a little snack.  Remember connectivity is not always available for on-line references.

Self-guided activities are truly awesome, while hiring a friendly Swazi guide will enhance your adventure and experience. All activities must be back in rest camp before dark.

MOUNTAIN BIKING

Mountain bikes may be hired by the hour for self-guided or guided adventures. Dirt roads and certain single-track trails for a little more fun give cyclist a wide range of technical options, from the steep mountain to flat gentle game viewing.  Cyclists are always reminded that wildlife has right of way and speeding is not an eco-activity. Their bikes are well maintained and available at Mlilwane Rest Camp Reception.

COST:  MOUNTAIN BIKING / HR. GUIDED: R 215 PER PERSON                   SELF-GUIDED: R 155 PER PERSON PER HOUR

HORSE RIDING

Ride out into eSwatini’s ‘Valley of Heaven’ with Mlilwane’s Chubeka Trails. Horses are surefooted with gentle temperaments, perfect for all trail riding levels (rider’s weight restriction of 95kg). Hourly rides are concentrated on the southern plains, sometimes crossing the river and including a little forest riding. You’ll get a safety briefing at the start and informative commentary about each animal you spot from a wilderness guide.

COST: HORSE RIDING /1 HR. R 390 PER PERSON PER HOUR

GUIDED WALKS

Departing from Mlilwane Rest Camp, your Swazi guide will take you along trails focusing on your interest, be it birding or wildlife.  The diverse habitats in close proximity allow for great sightings, including woodland, grassland, forest and aquatic species.  With easily accessible wetland areas alongside woodland, tick off up to 9 kingfisher species, watch the aerobatics of at least 3 bee-eater species, and enjoy the grassland species.

Guided walk includes bottled water.

COST: GUIDED GAME/BIRDING WALKS (2,5HRS) R 270 PER PERSON

SELF-GUIDED HIKING/WALKING TRAILS

An interwoven network of 13 trails covering well over 25km traverse Mlilwane.  These trails cater for hikers, trail runners, cyclists and horse riders, with some that are specific to activity. The newer trails are still under construction and not yet marked, but most are well marked and referenced on the Sanctuary map for easy navigation.

The trails vary in length and difficulty, weaving together the plains, shallows, mountain and forests in such a way that hikers, runners and cyclists can be creative for days!  All trail users are requested to sign the register and indemnity at Reception before departing, and to notify Reception on their return.  Sanctuary maps are on sale in their shop, at receptions and at our gates – please note the trail info on the map requires updating with the inclusion of new and rerouted trails.  Our trails are available to anyone who has paid their daily Conservation Fee.

COST: FREE OF CHARGE (MAP AVAILABLE FOR PURCHASE)

ESWATINI – HLANE ACTIVITIES

Home to Eswatini’s largest herds of game, Hlane Royal National Park conserves vast natural resources and holds deep royal and cultural significance. Guided game drives, game walks. Pack those binoculars, bird books, water and a little snack.  Remember connectivity is not always available for on-line references.

All of Big Game Parks guides are trained in-house and have extensive knowledge of the park and animals, and enjoy sharing their knowledge with and learning from our guests.  Hlane has different segments with specific animals in each. This is to protect both the safety of the wildlife and tourists. Only selected guided game drives are able to visit the Lion Area for safety reasons.

GUIDED GAME OR BIRD WALKS

All Game Walks on Hlane are guided and conducted outside the endangered species area, along roads and game paths, or simply through the bush.  2,5 hours of quiet walking through bush heightens all the senses and the slow pace allows for interpretation of the signs of the wild, making the experience truly memorable.   Your preference of either a Game Walk or a Birding Walk will dictate the area chosen for the walk.

The lowveld woodlands and riverine forests reveal the beautiful bush-shikes, touraco, trogans and larger birds of prey… and so much more!

COST:  GUIDED GAME OR BIRD WALKS ±1.5 HOURS: R 270 PER PERSON

SUNRISE / SUNSET GAME DRIVE

Sunrise Game Drive (2,5hr) – This tour will capture the best of the early morning sun as the wildlife begin to start their day. This tour is especially suited to photography with the morning light offering beautiful shots.  Tea/coffee and a snack is included on this tour.

Sunset Game Drive (2,5hr) – A great way to end the day is watching the sunset across the park in a beautiful spot. You will see the animals in their natural habitats, with nocturnal animals beginning to rise. A drink is included on this tour.

COST: SUNRISE/SUNSET GAME DRIVES ±2.5 HOURS: R 455 PER PERSON

RHINO DRIVE (Due to the nature of this activity, minimum age is 13 years)

The ever-popular Rhino Drive is a shorter 1,5-hour drive and excludes the Lion Area. This drive will focus solely on trying to find White Rhino, with the potential opportunity of being within a few meters of the rhino. Please note, not all rhino is approachable and guides are well trained in understanding the behavior on the rhinos and have discretion.

COST: ±1.5 HOURS R 435 PER PERSON

MOZAMBIQUE – PONTA DO OURO ACTIVITIES

All year round you will see our friendly pods of bottlenose dolphins. Humpback whales give us spectacular surface shows from July to October and Whale sharks & manta Rays glide along our backline in the summer months. We also occasionally spot the indo-pacific Humpback Dolphin & Spinner dolphins. We stop to snorkel on a shallow reef where we see various fish life species and have a good chance of seeing turtles.

DOLPHIN ENCOUTERS

Meet at the Dive Centre at your given booking time. Snorkeling gear is handed out, indemnity form is signed. You are then given a pre-launch briefing which includes boat procedure, what to expect and dolphin behavior information. We then take you down to the beach where the boat is waiting. We push the boat into the water, and navigate our way through the surf. We first travel South towards the border line of South Africa and Mozambique giving you the opportunity to see the Lighthouse and Kosi Bay in the Distance. We then start travelling North in search of dolphins.

When we come across a pod of dolphins the dolphin team assess the pods behavior. If the dolphins are not resting, we will instruct you to gear up with your mask, snorkel and fins and be ready to enter the water. Once given the go ahead you will slip into the water and swim towards the dolphin guide, looking down at all times. Please try to not make a noise or splash and swim with your arms to your sides. When they are social, they love to stick around and play.

NO touching of the dolphins or any Marine life and NO diving down during the dolphin encounter. We have an 80% success rate in sightings from the boat, in-water interactions are completely up to the dolphins at that time. We also stop at a shallow reef outside Malongane Bay for a short reef snorkel and hereafter we head back to the launch site.

Please Note:

• Minimum age is 5 years old, maximum age we have had people up to the age of 70 odd join us, but it really does depend on the ocean conditions on the day.
• Minimum 6 people and max is 13 per trip.
• Early morning is usually the best time to launch, as the wind tends to pick up throughout the day. We like to be on the ocean as early as possible to ensure you have the best possible experience.
• Summer time from 05h00, Autumn from 06h00 & Winter from 07h00.

DOLPHIN SWIM Incl. 1 x swim: COST: ±2 HOURS R 600 PER PERSON

DOLPHIN TOUR PACKAGE incl. 3 x swims: COST: ±2 HOURS R 1500 PER PERSON

SNORKELLING TRIP MALONGANE REEF: COST: ±1.5 HOURS R 480 PER PERSON

SNORKELLING TRIP TECHOBANINE REEF: COST: ±3 HOURS R 600 PER PERSON

TURTLE ADVENTURE: COST: ±1 HOUR R 420 PER PERSON

WHALE WATCHING: (JULY TO OCTOBER) COST: ±2 HOURS R 800 PER PERSON

SCUBA DIVING

Mozambique offers spectacular diving with many species and vast variety of sea life. Join one of the many dive packages available for an underwater adventure, from shallow reefs for Open water, to deeper shark dives for the more advanced diver… a little something for everyone.

The water temperature ranges from 21 ºC, with recorded visibility of 25+ meters in winter, May to August. In summer, 29ºC with15 to 20 meters visibility which illustrates excellent diving all year round. All divers must present proof of certification prior to first dive and fill out a standard diving indemnity form. With Oxygen and DAN Kit onboard the rubber duck, The Whaler can accommodate 13 divers.

TRY DIVE/ DISCOVER SCUBA: COST: FROM R 1 800 PER PERSON (6 000 METCAIS)

SINGLE DIVE INCL. FULL GEAR: COST: FROM R 750 PER PERSON (2 500 METCAIS)

5 DIVES INCL. FULL GEAR: COST: FROM R 3 300 PER PERSON (11 000 METCAIS)

DEEP ADVENTURE DIVE INCL. FULL GEAR: COST: FROM R 1 900 PER PERSON (6 300 METCAIS)

SHARK DIVE INCL. FULL GEAR: COST: FROM R 950 PER PERSON (3 200 METCAIS)

ST. LUCIA – ISIMANGALISO WETLAND PARK

South Africa’s first World Heritage Site

Awarded as a World Heritage site in 1999 (Unesco), this small but quaint village has fast become a top tourist destination. St Lucia also happens to be the most visited town in Africa to witness their beloved Hippos. St Lucia experiences sub-tropical weather year-round temperatures remain in the 20 degrees, February and March being the hottest and winter months the nicest time to visit. Activities & Safaris run year-round with daily departures being available.

HLUHLUWE/UMFOLOZI GAME DRIVE

A mere 45-minute drive from St Lucia lies the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park Africa’s oldest proclaimed game reserve.

A Half Day excursion through this Big Five reserve, goes in search of the magnificent African Big 5. Included is all conservation levies and a Bush Breakfast. This Big 5, 9600-hectare park offers not only the possibility of witnessing the Big 5 but also Cheetah’s and Wild Dogs to mention but a few of the incredible wildlife within the reserve.

Once the hunting grounds of the famous Zulu chief Shaka, the Park is renowned for its efforts in saving the white rhino from extinction and the magnificence of these first foothills off the coastal escarpment. White rhino abounds, and sightings of elephant are not unusual. The park also has lion, cheetah, black rhino, leopard, wild dog, a large population of giraffe and much more. Bird sightings may include lesser jacana, lappet-faced vultures, bateleur eagles, white-headed vultures, Southern banded snake eagles etc.

TIME: 05H00-13H00           COST: R 1250 PER PERSON

SUNRISE AND SUNSET EASTERN SHORES EXCURSION

This 3-hour safari offers you a unique perspective of the numerous ecosystems within the Eastern Shores. It’s a magical way to enjoy the outdoors as the Sunsets/sunrises over the St Lucia Estuary, sit back, and enjoy your knowledgeable and experienced game ranger has years of experience within the reserve and he or she will ensure that you get to the best parts within the park. The park is divided by the St Lucia Estuary with the eastern and western shores. The estuary is one of the largest in South Africa is also home to 800 Hippos and 1200 Nile Crocodiles.

MORNING TIME: 07H00-12H00       COST: R 600 PER PERSON

AFTERNOON SUMMER: 16H00-21H00 WINTER TIMES: 15H00-20H00

NIGHT DRIVE EASTERN SHORES EXCURSION

A Night Drive Safari is a game drive that operates after dark, with a powerful spotlight. This 3-hour safari on an Open Game Drive Safari Vehicle offers one a chance of witnessing the elusive Leopard, Giraffe, Buffalo, Elephants, Hippos grazing, Chameleons and so much more. The advantage of a night drive is that they provide access to nocturnal species that are rarely seen during the day, such as Hippo, Bush Babies, Chameleons, Aardvarks and Leopard are also more active after dark, and there is a greater probability of seeing them hunt at night.

NIGHT TIME: 19H00 or 20H00          COST: FROM R 600 PER PERSON

WHALE WATCHING ST LUCIA (June to November)

Whale Watching St Lucia is a magical 2-hour St Lucia tour taking you as close as 50 meters from the giants of the deep. Humpback whales are the most commonly spotted, but Minky’s, Right and Sperm whales are also seen. Whale Watching St Lucia begins with a high energy surf launch which requires decent “holding on strength”. For this reason, we accept only children 12 years or older.

Weather: This service is weather dependent. If the seas are rough, the trip will be postponed or client will receive full refund. WE have respect for rough seas, and client’s lives, if it is too rough, we will cancel the trip, respect us for making that decision

What to Wear: comfortable though warm clothing – bring an extra set of dry clothes – make sure your backpack is not too huge – we cannot allow 10 huge backpacks on board

Things to Bring: An extra warm jacket, although we issue life jackets and raincoats always dress in warm comfortable quick drying clothes, bring along a towel, bottle of water, packet of biscuits, seasick tablet, if need be, rubber / plastic shoes that you won’t mind walking into the sea with, and a set of dry clothes
TIME: MORNING TIMES TO BE CONFIRMED (WEATHER DEPENDING)      COST: R 1260.00 PER PERSON – 2 HOURS ON THE WATER

SOUTHERN DRAKENSBERG – UNDERBERG

The Maloti Drakensberg Park, a World Heritage Site

The Drakensberg is the eastern portion of the Great Escarpment, which encloses the central Southern African plateau. The Great Escarpment reaches its greatest elevation – 2,000 to 3,482 metres within the border region of South Africa and Lesotho.

The Southern Drakensberg is big & beautiful and offers an enormous diversity of attractions and activities. Enjoy mountain biking, horse riding, hiking, 4 by 4 excursions and so much more! Explore a wealth of San Rock Art, as well as the local arts and crafts. You won’t find better countryside anywhere!

SANI PASS DAY TOUR INTO LESOTHO

The legendary Sani Pass provides the only road link between KwaZulu-Natal and Lesotho, and is the only road crossing the summit of the high Drakensberg.

The Sani Pass Day Tour is a 7-hour 4X4 Guided Tour which traverses the Sani Pass and enters the Eastern Highlands of Lesotho for a visit to the Sani Top Church and stops for lunch at the Highest Pub in Africa. Climbing to an adventurous height of 2874m (9429 feet) above sea level, this makes for an epic adventure in a 4X4 Vehicle. We meet at 09h00 in Underberg and return around 16h00 on the same day.

DURATION: 7 HOURS         COST: FROM R 940 PER PERSON

HIKING TO SAN ROCK ART

This hike gives you a first-hand experience of the natural wilderness of Drakensberg viewed through a glimpse into the lives of the now-vanished San people, the first people of southern Africa. The San or Bushman people occupied the Drakensberg for at least 35 000 years, but vanished by the end of the 19th century. Your hike takes you to one of the many rock art sites in the Drakensberg.

Your guide, will interpret the natural environment and provide insight into the lives and art of the San people.

The various hikes range from 8-20 km in length with an ascent of 400m, lasting some 4-8 hours, and requires good hiking fitness. Participants need good hiking footwear, sunscreen, hats, a warm jacket, and waterproofs. Remember to pack snacks and or a lunch with plenty of liquid to keep hydrated.

DURATION: MORNING/FULL DAY    COST: FROM R 900

HORSE TRAILS

Nestled at the foothills of this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site for exceptional natural beauty, Khotso has become synonymous with horse riding in the Southern Drakensberg.

Open all year round, their horse trails all start from the Khotso Backpackers Lodge and crisscross over 1,300 hectares of rolling Khotso land. Eland’s Peak sits at 1,800m above sea level, whilst 5km of the beautiful Mzimkulu River flows through the farm as well. Let their experienced grooms and volunteers saddle up and guide you to panoramic views and embrace just how exhilarating the spirit of freedom can be.

DURATION/COST: 1 HOUR R 290, 2HRS R 490, 3HRS R 770, SUNSET R 740, FULL DAY R 900 PER PERSON

TUBING UMZIMKHULU (Summer only, and depending on water level)

Choose a tube, hop in the water, ride the river for approximately 2km until you see a sign that says “Pebble Beach”. Get picked up and drive back! Nestled at the foothills of this magnificent UNESCO World Heritage site for exceptional natural beauty.

Eland’s Peak sits at 1,800m above sea level, whilst 5km of the beautiful Mzimkulu River flows through the farm as well.

DURATION/COST: 1 HOUR R 170

NORTHERN DRAKENSBERG – ROYAL NATAL NATIONAL PARK

Royal Natal National Park has some of the best mountain scenery in Africa. The main feature is the world-famous Amphitheater, a rock wall approximately that is approximately five km in length, and approximately 500m high. On top of the amphitheater is the Mont-aux-Sources peak where the orange river begins its long journey to the Atlantic Ocean and Tugela River cascades down the face of the amphitheater, in the second highest waterfall in the world, on its way to the Indian ocean.

SELF-GUIDED HIKING TRAILS

Hiking is by far the most popular activity at Royal Natal National Park. Comprehensive hiking guides are available for purchase at the Visitor Centre. The brochure shows a map of the park and the network of hiking trails which visit every part of the park from the leisurely walk to Fairy Glen to the challenging hike up the Crack and down the Mudslide.

Various options available.

Popular Shorter Walks/Hikes (Times vary from person to person, are approximate and to be used as a guideline only)

1. Otto’s Walk: Round trip 3km (1.9 miles) – 45min
2. Cascades and McKinlay’s Pool: Round trip 5 km (3.1 miles) – 1 hour (can be joined with Tiger Falls)
3. Sunday Falls: Round trip 6 km (3.7 miles) – 2 hours
4. Tigers Falls: Round trip 6 km (3.7 miles) – 3 hours (can be joined with Cascades)

COST: R 70 ENTRANCE FEE PER PERSON (Map available for purchase at shop)

GUIDED HIKE TO BUSHMEN PAINTINGS

Sigubudu shelter: The Bushman rock Art tour takes about 30-40 minutes to walk up to the Bushman paintings in Sigubudu Valley, a round trip of an hour or a little over without counting the time taken to look at the paintings. Royal Natal has trained people from the local village who act as guides and can explain the origin of the paintings and also point out some fossils embedded in the rock. There are paintings of eland, and many people, as well as hand prints – all very interesting, and reasonably well preserved.

COST: R 50 PER PERSON