About Nomadic Tours
Our Nomadic Tours were born out of the dream to offer the beauty, splendour and healing power of Africa to travellers on a budget, allowing them to experience pristine beaches, breath-taking mountains, memorable animal encounters and some of the best bars and restaurants around. Experience all of this and more along with yoga and wellness experiences to make sure your time in Africa is memorable, revitalizing, heart-happy and adventurous.
View our current retreats below and join us on one of our wellness in the wilderness adventures!
All Year Yoga Safaris
Incorporating a Yoga Safari in to your African vacation is an experience that you will live on in your memories for years to come. Not only will you enjoy a relaxed and immersive time in nature – seeing the Big 5, walking through the untouched African Bush, experiencing the best sunrises and sunsets imaginable and enjoying unrivalled African hospitality and exceptional local cuisine – you too will get the opportunity to connect back to nature (which we believe is the ultimate form of wellness) and embrace yoga in paradise. Your African Yoga Safari awaits…
ITINERARY
This itinerary is perfect for those looking for:
- A deep immersive experience in nature
- A focus on rest and relaxation verse specific focus on Big 5
- Someone looking for more personal time and reflection
Day 1:
- Road transfer from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport
- Check in and welcome by the Tomjachu Team
- Early evening yoga class + Nature Drive
- Dinner at Tomjachu Bush Retreat
Day 2:
- Full day Kruger Big 5 Safari including breakfast picnic basket
- Dinner at Tomjachu
Day 3:
- Breakfast at the lodge
- Guided nature walk
- Late afternoon yoga class
- Evening nature drive, sundowner and special bush dinner experience
Day 4:
- Breakfast at the lodge
- Morning and early afternoon at leisure (or book another Big 5 Safari – Optional)
- Late afternoon yoga class
- Dinner at Tomjachu
Day 5:
- Morning self-guided hike or walk / cycle
- Breakfast at Tomjachu Bush Retreat
- Road Transfer to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport
THE YOGA
Enjoy some beautiful yoga flows in unique settings with one of our many local and passionate yoga teachers. Yoga styles available (subject to availability) include Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Power, Yin, Restorative, Pre and Post Natal, Kids and sports-related yoga. There is the also the opportunity to explore elements such as meditation, Pranayama (breath work), Qi Gong, Western and Eastern Massage and Pilates.
We will tailor your yoga experience based on your preferences and experiences, match you with the best teachers and source the most memorable locations for your yoga classes.
THE LOCATION
Welcome to your home in the bush. Nestled amongst the rolling mountains of the Lowveld in the heart of Mpumalanga, lies Tomjachu Bush Retreat. Once a family home, it is now an award-winning, owner-run retreat, situated within its own private nature reserve. It is the perfect destination for anyone looking to unwind and relax in nature, with plenty of activities on offer to those looking for a touch of adventure. The retreat’s location within a private reserve allows you to explore the abundant natural wonders that flourish in the surrounding 550 hectare property, whilst immersing yourself in elegant comfort.
Immerse yourself in the marvels of nature with an array of activities to keep you entertained throughout your stay. Enjoy an adventurous game drive with their knowledgeable guide, hike up to the majestic Zebra Heights and meander amongst the bounteous plains game which roams around the property. Or simply sit back with a glass of award-winning wine on their extensive verandas and indulge yourself in the natural orchestra of over 265 bird species.
Accommodation options range from individual en-suite rooms in the historic Homestead to private rock cottages next door to the main Homestead.
THE COST
Price starts from ZAR11 500 (or approximately US$850) per person sharing with accommodation in the Homestead and based on inclusions shown in the itinerary above.
Please inquire should you wish to change accommodation type or if you should be a single traveller or group travelling together. This experience is fully customizable.
Want to do a Big 5 safari with a difference? Look no further than our Big 5 Yoga Safari in the Balule Private Game Reserve which falls part of the Greater Kruger National Park. Incorporating a Yoga Safari in to your African vacation is an experience that will live on in your memories for years to come. Not only will you enjoy a relaxed and immersive time in nature – seeing the Big 5, walking through the untouched African Bush, experiencing the best sunrises and sunsets imaginable and enjoying unrivalled African hospitality and exceptional local cuisine – you too will get the opportunity to connect back to nature (which we believe is the ultimate form of wellness) and embrace yoga in paradise. Your African Yoga Safari awaits…
ITINERARY
This itinerary is perfect for those looking for:
- Someone looking for more time in Big Game country
- A deep immersive experience in nature
- A lodge based in a Big 5 Reserve
Day 1:
- Road transfer from Hoedspruit Airport
- Check in and welcome by the Toro Yaka Team
- Sunset Game Drive
- Dinner at Toro Yaka
Day 2:
- Sunrise Game Drive
- Breakfast and lunch Toro Yaka
- Yoga class
- Sunset Game Drive
- Dinner at Toro Yaka
Day 3:
- Full day Kruger safari
Day 4:
- Sunrise Bush Walk
- Breakfast and lunch Toro Yaka
- Yoga class
- Sunset Game Drive
- Dinner at Toro Yaka
Day 5:
- Sunrise Game Drive
- Breakfast at Toro Yaka
- Road Transfer to Hoedspruit Airport
THE YOGA
Enjoy some beautiful yoga flows in unique settings with one of our many local and passionate yoga teachers. Yoga styles available include (subject to availability) Hatha, Vinyasa, Ashtanga, Kundalini, Power, Yin, Restorative, Pre and Post Natal, Kids and sports-related yoga. There is the also the opportunity to explore elements such as meditation and Pranayama (breath work).
We will tailor your yoga experience based on your preferences and experiences, match you with the best teachers and source the most memorable locations for your yoga classes.
THE LOCATION
This special lodge is nestled in the heart of the Balule Nature Reserve, a 38 000 hectare conservancy, which forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park. ToroYaka means “My Dream” in Northern Sotho, one of South Africa’s local languages, and the creation of Toro Yaka Bush Lodge has fulfilled the dreams of the owners, Steve and Nicole, by establishing a haven of peace and tranquillity from which to share their passion for nature.
The lodge has been designed in a modern style, with a relaxed atmosphere, allowing guests to sit back, relax and feel at home. The six en-suite double rooms ensure tranquillity and comfort at all times.
The main lodge has been designed to maximize interaction with nature. During winter the warthogs are regular visitors and most nights the bush babies can be seen. The communal area includes indoor and outdoor dining and lounge areas, and an honesty bar. The Boma offers an African dining experience around an open fire under a starlit sky whilst the swimming pool is a refreshing relief from the summer heat. The gardens’ indigenous trees and flowers attract an abundance of bird species, and animals gathering at the waterhole can be viewed from the lodge area and pool deck.
All the rooms are air-conditioned, with ceiling fans, mosquito nets and private decks. The en-suite bathrooms have both inside and outside showers, double basins and separate toilets. They are spacious and comfortable and the insect screens ensure closeness with nature.
THE COST
Price starts from ZAR16 500 (or approximately US$1 220) per person sharing and based on inclusions shown in the itinerary above.
Please inquire should you wish to change any elements or if you should be a single traveller or group travelling together. This experience is fully customizable.
All Year Tours & Retreats
Here at N/a’an ku sê volunteers create a new home in the heart of Africa where they stay any length of time from 2 weeks to 3 months. All funds from the volunteer programmes are ploughed back into the projects, enabling the N/a’an ku sê Foundation to grow and become even more successful in achieving their vision. With no previous experience or qualifications necessary to participate in the program, the projects offer people the opportunity to make a lasting and tangible difference to the lives of the vulnerable San community and Namibia’s wildlife. In return you are provided with a once in a lifetime experience of living and working in the real Africa, meeting a variety of people from different backgrounds as well as gaining a unique opportunity to take a hands on role in conservation, rehabilitation and humanitarian work. As volunteers, you come for various reasons and from all walks of life. Whether they are wildlife and nature enthusiasts, pre-veterinary or medical doctors, teachers, conservationists, gap year students or simply those with a taste for adventure and a desire to make an impact in Africa, volunteers will find that while at N/a’an ku sê they will grow as a person in mind, heart and soul.
With the help of our dedicated volunteers and staff, the N/a’an ku sê Foundation continues to work toward an improved Namibia through the implementation of various projects that operate in 4 different sites around the country. These projects include wildlife work such as rehabilitation and captive care at the N/a’an ku s sê Wildlife Sanctuary as well as carnivore conservation research at Neuras and Kanaan, the two sites operating in the South of Namibia. Other projects and activities focus on aiding the San community and include the Lifeline Medical Clinic in the east of Namibia as well as voluntary participation at our Clever Cubs School for San children at the Wildlife Sanctuary.
VOLUNTEER OPTIONS:
Wildlife Conservation Volunteering:
- At the N/a’an ku sê Wildlife Sanctuary (Clever Cubs School available here as an activity or project) near Windhoek, volunteers will focus on caring for animals in rehabilitation or permanent captivity
- At Kanaan Desert Retreat & Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate in the Southwest of Namibia, volunteers will focus on researching free-ranging populations of carnivores to aid in N/a’an ku sê’s role of mitigating human-wildlife conflict through research and understanding of these animals as well as relationship-building and cooperation with local farmers to reduce the motivation for persecution of predators.
- At Mangetti in the North East of Namibia, volunteers will focus on researching free-ranging populations of African Wild Dog and African Elephant to aid in N/a’an ku sê’s role of mitigating human-wildlife conflict through research and understanding of these animals as well as relationship-building and cooperation with local farmers to reduce the motivation for persecution of these species.
Medical Volunteering:
- At the Lifeline Clinic in the East of Namibia (Epukiro), volunteers will work with the local San population to provide healthcare
Volunteers may choose to combine various projects and activities and rotate amongst the different sites or may choose to focus on only one project or area of interest for the duration of their stay – the experience can be tailored to suit the needs and desires of each volunteer. The pre-booking of project itineraries in advance is advised but can also be adjusted upon arrival subject to project availability.
DATES:
The retreat runs year round.
Start dates for the wildlife programs are Mondays and Thursdays with pick-ups from the airport or Windhoek included in the cost. If a you arrive on a different week day, then a N$ 500 fee will be incurred. Start dates for the medical project are any day prior to departure to the clinic at no additional cost.
Transfer dates to, between and from Neuras and Kanaan (the 2 southern research sites) occur on Saturdays, where as our Mangetti (the northern research site) occur on Sundays . Most volunteers choose to combine time at the wildlife sanctuary with time at their research sites.
ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD:
Upon your arrival at the Hosea Kutako International Airport, one of their drivers will welcome you with a sheet indicating your name. When you arrive at the sanctuary, you will be welcomed by the Volunteer Liaison Manager and you will be allocated to your accommodation and a brief orientation.
They have two options of accommodation at the Wildlife Sanctuary; volunteer rooms with up to four people (same gender) sharing each room, or large tents with a living and bedroom area to be shared by up to two people (same gender or a couple). The rooms are basic but the single beds are comfortable with bedding provided (duvets and pillows). Showers and toilet facilities are communal and hot water is supplied by solar energy and therefore sometimes restricted. Power sockets for electrical items are available in communal areas.
Three balanced meals are provided per day on a self-serve basis. On weekends they often have a braai (barbecue). Vegetarian options are available upon request. Please advise us of any special dietary requirements prior to arrival at the project.
A kiosk is available at the sanctuary for beverages and snacks. We accept Namibian Dollar and South African Rand currency for the purchases.
The facilities at their research sites are very similar to the ones provided at the sanctuary, with accommodation being either in guesthouse rooms or in large tents. They will provide you with three meals per day.
OTHER ACTIVITIES:
During your time at the Wildlife Sanctuary, you may enjoy activities such as a nature walk across the farm, swimming in the pool, playing football or paintball, followed by a sundowner and braai (barbeque). Saturday afternoons are comprised of a fun activity, and on Sundays you may have the opportunity to go into Windhoek or go for lunch or even an overnight stay at their luxury lodge. You may also have the opportunity to visit the Ancient San Skills Academy to learn about signs and tracks of the veldt, fire making with traditional San fire sticks, making bows and arrows, jewellery and craft making, and hunting in the traditional San way.
Another option as an add-on to your stay at the Wildlife Sanctuary is to book a tour to see more of the country. In Namibia, a beautiful country of changing landscapes, there is much to see and experience. Optional tours include a safari to Etosha National Park, a visit to the coastal town of Swakopmund, a chance to sand board on the iconic red dunes of Sossusvlei and many more options, with which we can assist you.
At Kanaan and Mangetti you may enjoy nature walks, swimming in the swimming pools, sundowners and a braai. At Neuras you can enjoy optional day trips to our iconic Sossusvlei and or Naukluft Mountain Hike at a surcharge. At Neuras you can enjoy a leisurely stroll
At the Lifeline Clinic you may spend some of your free time visiting the local San Bushman village, playing football with the local children or visiting nearby villages to learn more about the San community.
THE VENUE:
The N/a’an ku sê Wildlife Sanctuary
Conveniently located just 45 km from Namibia’s capital of Windhoek and 35 km from the airport, yet nestled in the African bush surrounded by the sights, sounds and smells of nature, N/a’an ku sê’s main site is home to the Wildlife Sanctuary and Clever Cubs School. On this project, volunteers will have the rare and exciting opportunity to actively participate in the conservation, rehabilitation, care and research of African wildlife. The sanctuary, which is the heart of N/a’an ku sê operations, currently provides a safe refuge for orphaned, injured or ‘problem’ wildlife including several lions, leopards, cheetahs, wild dogs, caracals, warthogs, antelope and baboons as well as a host of birds, smaller African mammals and farmyard animals.
The Wildlife Conservation project may also entail volunteering with the San children and assisting the teacher at their Clever Cubs School, located on premises at the N/a’an ku sê Sanctuary. This Pre-School provides vital free education to the San Bushman children whose parents work on site and who would otherwise not have access to education.
Wildlife Conservation Volunteering at Neuras, Kanaan & Mangetti
N/a’an ku sê provides volunteers with the unique opportunity to visit one or all of their carnivore research sites in Northern Namibia: Mangetti Elephant and Wild Dog Research Project OR Southern Namibia: Neuras Wine & Wildlife Estate and Kanaan N/a’an ku sê Desert Retreat. At these projects, you will have the chance to monitor large carnivores and other animals in the area, contributing to invaluable research that will help mitigate human-wildlife conflict in Africa.
Both Neuras and Kanaan run on a seven-night schedule with transportation to and from the Sanctuary on Saturdays, as well as between sites. Mangetti also runs on a seven-night schedule with transportation to and from the Sanctuary on Sundays. Conservation volunteers have the option of spending one or more weeks at all or either sites as part of their trip, where they will focus on the research of free-ranging animals. Due to space limitations, it is recommended to reserve a spot at Neuras, Kanaan and Mangetti in advance of arrival, preferably at the time of booking although it may be possible to add this to your itinerary upon arrival at the Sanctuary pending availability.
Neuras Wine and Wildlife Estate
Set amongst the stunning scenery of the Southern mountains, ancient canyons and caves, fascinating geological formations and five natural fountains, Neuras is truly a unique research site and is home to one of N/a’an ku sê’s carnivore research programs – in addition to being one of only three wineries in Namibia.
At Neuras, volunteers will get ample field experience and be involved first hand with all aspects of their research programme which includes monitoring wild carnivores such as leopard, cheetah and hyena. Activities here also include data collection and processing, checking camera traps, game counts, mapping and exploring the terrain and environment. As an additional optional day activity, you may also get the opportunity to visit the world famous red sand dunes at Sossusvlei or go on a beautiful morning mountain hike at the Naukluft Mountains that is bordering to the north of Neuras. Daily activities usually entail easy to intermediate hiking in the vast outdoors of this semi-desert landscape of Neuras, which extends southwards from the top of the majestic Naukluft Mountains, forming an unbelievable oasis on the edge of the Namib desert. You should not miss this fantastic environment.
Kanaan N/a’an ku sê Desert Retreat
Approximately 2-3 hours further southwest of Neuras and bordering the Namib Naukluft Park lies N/a’an ku sê’s newest research project site, Kanaan Desert Retreat. Red sand dunes, vast open grass plains and imposing mountain ranges make up the serene surroundings of Kanaan. Home to cheetah, brown hyena, spotted hyena, leopard and an array of other desert-adapted wildlife, Kanaan encompasses 352 km2 of desert scenery in which volunteers will perform vital research.
Wildlife Conservation volunteers at Kanaan may be involved with mapping the terrain, assisting with capture and releases, tracking, game counts or horse back game count, camera traps, maintenance and security on the reserve as well as night drives and sleep-outs. During free-time, volunteers may choose to enjoy sundowners in the beautiful Namib desert while taking in the breath-taking scenery of Kana.
Mangetti Research Project
The Mangetti Elephant & Wild Dog Research Project is located east of Etosha National Park. The Mangetti research covers an area of approximately 3000 km² to engage Namibian landowners and livestock farmers on the topic which provides the greatest challenge to the conservation of endangered species: Human-Wildlife Conflict. The impact of human activities on native wildlife has never been more apparent than it is in respect to two of Africa’s iconic species; the African Painted Dog (or wild dog) and the African Elephant both of which have endured decades of suffering through habitat fragmentation, hunting and persecution.
Volunteers will assist our researchers in documenting the movements and activities of elephant and wild dog. Using GPS and VHF monitoring technology, motion-sensitive trail cameras and traditional spoor (footprint) tracking techniques, come and delve into the lives of the World’s largest land animal and one of Africa’s most endangered carnivore species.
Medical Volunteering
The clinic provides primary healthcare to around 4,200 people each year, the majority of whom are San. They examine and treat patients at the clinic and transport those who need further medical treatment to the hospital, over 120km away. The patients live in Epukiro (or Pos 3 as it’s commonly known) and come from the surrounding villages and settlements, often travelling 50-100km to attend our clinic. At the primary healthcare clinic they consult with each patient, examine and assess their ailments, establish a diagnosis and treat accordingly. Around 40% of all our patients are children.
Whether you have no medical experience or you have worked in the field for 40 years – the activities of the Medical Volunteer program vary and will be tailored to each person depending on prior experience. Volunteers will participate in and assist the doctor and nurse with the running of the Lifeline Clinic and help provide primary healthcare to the local community.
The project at the clinic runs on a 12 night schedule with transfers to the clinic departing every second Sunday and arriving back on the farm on the Friday of the following week. Depending on the day you arrive, you may also have the opportunity to work with the animals if you choose to combine your time with our Wildlife Volunteer program.
ABOUT YOUR HOSTS:
Marlice van Vuuren, one of Namibia’s most well-known conservationists, and her husband Dr. Rudie van Vuuren, with the support of long-term friends Chris Heunis and Jan Verburg, started N/a’an ku sê Foundation in 2006. The aim of the foundation is to protect and conserve the vulnerable land, cultures and wildlife of Namibia and rescue species threatened by an ever-shrinking habitat. N/a’an ku sê, meaning “God will protect us” in the beautiful clicking language of the San, carries out the vital work of improving the lives of African wildlife as well as those of the marginalized San Bushman community.
The N/a’an ku sê Foundation continues to grow and thrive with several projects taking place for volunteers to participate in while making a real difference. These projects include wildlife conservation, rehabilitation and research as well as work with the San community at our school and medical clinic.
The N/a’an ku sê Foundation is renowned amongst conservationists worldwide, has received global awards and has even received the support of celebrities such as Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie.
COST:
Rates start from R950 per person per night, all inclusive.
A NOTE ON VISAS:
A work visa is required to volunteer at Naankuse. We work with an agency in Windhoek. Please contact us for more details. Please be informed that a work visa is a necessary requirement prior to booking arrival. This process can take six to eight weeks to be completed.
PAYMENT AND CANCELLATION:
The full, non-refundable payment is due to us 4 weeks prior to your start date. In case of a cancellation before the 4 weeks prior to start date, we can use any payment already made toward credit for your next booking. In case of cancellation within the 4 weeks prior to start date, there will be no refund or credit, and payment is due in full; however, they will honour your booking for a future placement (i.e. a change in date) if desired.
WHY DO THE COURSE
If you are an adventurous spirit wanting to gain a greater understanding of nature and the environment, whilst experiencing the excitement of the bush, then EcoQuest is for you. In addition, we show you how to drive a 4×4 vehicle, to identify common birds, plants, trees, tracks and how to track game.
Some subjects covered on the course:
Ecology
Common Trees and Shrubs
Animal Tracks and Tracking
Bird Identification and Behaviour
Animal Behaviour
Astronomy
Orientation and Navigation
Bush Skills
Positioning Vehicle for Photography
Correct Use of Binoculars
VENUES
- Karongwe Camps
Karongwe Camp is on the banks of the Karongwe River (mostly a dry river bed) in the 9 000 hectare (22 239 acre) Karongwe Game Reserve, which is to the south-west of the Kruger National Park. Through Karongwe Game Reserve flow three rivers which are tributaries of the Olifants River, carving their way through the bedrock and dividing the reserve. The vegetation of the reserve falls within the Savannah Biome of southern Africa with distinct vegetation zones being represented – mixed Lowveld and Mopane bushveld along with grass savannah, riverine vegetation and rocky outcrops.
- Makuleke Camp
Situated between the Limpopo and the Luvuvhu Rivers in the northern sector of Kruger National Park is the Pafuri region, an area spanning 24,000 hectares (59305 acres). Within the Pafuri area is the Makuleke Concession, the ancestral home of the Makuleke people and the most diverse and scenically attractive area in all of Kruger National Park.
The Makuleke concession is not accessible to the ordinary tourist visiting the park. This area belongs to the Makuleke community. This is quite a historical event for South Africa as the Makuleke people were removed from this area in 1968 and after a lengthy process it was finally re-instated to the community in 1998 after a very long struggle. This area is certainly the wildest and most remote part of the Kruger National Park and offers varied vegetation, great wildlife viewing, the best birding in all of the Kruger National Park and is filled with folklore of the early explorers and ancient civilizations.
ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD
The sleeping arrangements at all our camps consist of two people sharing per tent. Single requests are required to pay double rates. Women and men do not share tents unless booked as a couple.
Early morning wake-up (tea, coffee, biscuits, fresh fruit and cereal)
Brunch after activity (cooked breakfast and fruit salad)
Afternoon tea (light lunch/ sandwiches)
Dinner (balanced, warm plated meal with meat, vegetables and salad)
CERTIFICATION
All course participants receive an EcoTraining certificate of participation.
DATES
- 2017 Dates [6 nights / 7 days]
28 June – 02 July (Karongwe) – Family EcoQuest
09 July – 15 July (Makuleke)
20 August – 26 August (Karongwe)
30 September – 06 October (Makuleke)
- 2017 Dates [13 nights /14 days
26 August – 08 September (Karongwe & Makuleke)
10 December – 23 December (Karongwe & Makuleke)
- 2018 Dates [6 nights / 7 days]
2 July – 8 July (Karongwe) – Family EcoQuest
29 October – 4 November (Karongwe)
14 November – 20 November (Makuleke)
22 November – 28 November (Makuleke)
10 December – 16 December (Karongwe)
- 2018 Dates [13 nights /14 days
16 July – 29 July (Karongwe)
18 August – 31 August (Makuleke & Karongwe)
1 November – 14 November (Mashatu & Makuleke)
COSTS
2017 rate per person [6 nights / 7 days]: R14 500
2018 rate per person [6 nights / 7 days]: R16 500
2017 rate per person [13 nights / 14 days]: R25 700
2018 rate per person [13 nights / 14 days] : R28 100
WHY DO THE COURSE
As a Wildlife Conservation volunteer you provide an important resource in caring for and feeding the animals on a daily basis, as well as helping to maintain and develop the program. As a wildlife volunteer you should be ready to be actively involved in the day-to-day activities which support the program. At Buffelsdrift the goal is to release animals whenever possible so that they may be free to live a natural life in the wild. However, sometimes an animal comes to us that cannot be released for various reasons such as habituation to humans which would put the animal at risk if released or an extensive injury. The aim is to provide a lifelong home for these animals.
Because they release and/or relocate whenever possible, the animals at Buffelsdrift will vary at any given time, but may include carnivores such as Jackal, Lions and Caracals; birds such as Peacocks and birds of prey; antelope such as Oryx (gemsbok), Springbok, Nyala, Grey Rhee buck and kudu; small mammals such as Meerkats, Rock dassies, Mongoose, Genets and Bush pigs as well as a host of other species and farm animals.
Activities at Buffelsdrift are carried out in a rotational group system to ensure that everybody gets exposed to the variety of experiences available. Possible tasks as a Wildlife Conservation Volunteer at Buffelsdrift include: Preparing food and feeding the wildlife; cleaning and maintaining enclosures; providing enrichment to the animals in the form of interaction, walks in the bush or implementation of special activities for them; providing intensive care for juvenile wildlife including overnight care for some animals; physical labour such as building new facilities; research which may include the monitoring of free-ranging animals in the area, analysing camera traps and GPS data; time in the environment such as tracking & monitoring a variety of animals species (and sometimes snakes!) on or near property and game counts in the bush and assisting with the various projects that arise at the sanctuary.
Weekends at Buffelsdrift tend to involve a Saturday activity that can vary from paintball, a nature walk through the reserve, “boere sport” competition, volleyball or challenges and quizzes. You will also be able to enjoy the activities in the surrounding area such as Zip lining, Cango Caves, Ostrich Farm and Wine Tasting at Karusa Wine Cellars. Evenings involve a braai and time to socialize and relax together. Sundays you may have the option to visit Oudtshoorn or spend some time at their luxury lodge for the day.
Sounds like a great way to visit Africa? Then book your trip now!
THE VENUE
Buffelsdrift Game Lodge opened its doors in October 2005 and they have already made their mark nationally and internationally. In this short space of time they have already been voted the top Game Lodge in the Southern Cape by the Professional Management Review and by the AA Awards as one of the top three in South Africa.
ACCOMMODATION AND FOOD
Accommodation is in large newly built tents with up to four people (same gender) sharing each room. The rooms and tents are basic but the single beds are comfortable with bedding provided (duvets and pillows). Showers and toilet facilities are en-suite and hot water is supplied by gas geysers. Power sockets for electrical items are available in each tent and in the communal area. Three meals are provided by the volunteers with assistants of a staff member.
DATES
This project can be joined on a Tuesday or Thursday of the week and any time of the year. You may extend for any length of time (minimum of two weeks)
COSTS
R890 per person per night, all inclusive.
Please note that rates do decrease for longer stays. Contact us for more details.
Rates include accommodation, all meals and transport to and from George Airport. Volunteers must arrange their own flights to and from George Airport.
OVERVIEW
Walk Your Way… in the magnificent setting of the Cape Peninsula, meeting others and creating time and space for a personal journey and a unique adventure.
This is your experience.
WHY CAMINO?
It is a retreat. A time away from your normal routine. To use how you like: asking and answering life’s questions; healing hardships and heartaches; challenging your physical ability; a space to be quiet and alone or just an adventure open to whatever it brings you.
Many pilgrims set off on their Camino for no particular reason and, as the journey unfolds, they uncover thoughts, feelings and realisations about themselves, their relationships and more.
The route is a sacred route, which sets it apart from a hiking trail, and it is hosted by our diverse sacred sites found in South Africa. We celebrate and showcase all of our diversity without bias: Islam, Judaism, Christianity, Buddhism, Hare Krishna, Afrikaans Calvinism, African traditionalism, Sufism. The Quakers, the Rosicrucian’s and any other sacred way.
The natural setting will thrill any nature lover. Views of the city below, the mountain above and the canopied footpath ahead, are familiar scenes along the route. And of course the coast line with its own wealth of living beauty. At a few places along the way you’ll actually see both the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Only then can you grasp the vastness and abundance of our unique Cape Peninsula. From Table Mountain to Cape Point is famous for its rich and dramatic beauty.
Landscapes change throughout, and on one particular day you’d have walked through wine lands, forests, fynbos thickets and rocky hillsides, ending at a sea-side village. You’ll be in the company of birds and hopefully you’ll spot baboons, snakes, bushbuck and other small animals. And friendly residents walking their dogs.
While the route is lush with flora and fauna, it’s usually only a stone’s throw away from urban suburbs, where nearby facilities can assist any need or desire. All the legs offer accommodation and restaurants along the route, so get ready for Cape Town’s unique and flavoursome cuisine.
Inspired by an ancient pilgrimage walk across Europe, Camino de Santiago de Compostela, the Cape Camino route is approximately 200km and takes between seven and nine days to complete, depending on your pace and choice of legs.
HOW
On foot; discovering yourself and the route step by step, creates a unique awareness of self as well as your environment. Discovering resources you did not know you had. Walking a Camino is inspirational and seeing the world one step at a time will change your perspective.
WALKING PACKAGES
Not all walkers are comfortable planning, arranging and booking their own Cape Camino experience, so we have a professional logistics team that will design your route, book your establishments and send you a detailed itinerary.
And, not only are they the same individuals who were so deeply inspired by the European Camino and who came back to create and develop this special South African route, but they also have great relationships with, and know the in’s and out’s of, each service provider you’ll be visiting.
From basic sharing to private stays, a wide range of options available.
PACKAGE OPTIONS 2017:
1 Day Camino (Guided)
R 2 245.00 per person
R 1 695.00 per person – Min 2 pax
Included:
Guide expert, Cape Camino Passport (to be signed along the route), 1 Cape Camino t-shirt, maps, lunch.
3 Day 2 Night Camino (Guided)
R5 236.00 per person with backpacker accommodation.
R4 136.00 per person sharing. Min 2 pax in backpacker accommodation
R6 691.00 per person with guesthouse accommodation.
R5 591.00 per person sharing. Min 2 pax in guesthouse accommodation
Included:
Guide experts for 3 days, Cape Camino Passport (to be signed along the route), 1 Cape Camino t-shirt, maps, 2 nights back packer / guesthouse accommodation, 2 breakfasts, 2 dinners.
5 Day 4 Night Camino (2 Day Guided then 3 Days Self Guided)
R7 673.00 per person with backpacker accommodation
R6 573.00 per person sharing. Min 2 pax in backpacker accommodation
R10 582.00 per person with guesthouse accommodation
R9 482.00 per person sharing. Min 2 pax in guesthouse accommodation
Included:
Guide experts for 2 days, Cape Camino Passport (to be signed along the route), 1 Cape Camino t-shirt, maps, 4 nights back packer / guesthouse accommodation, 4 breakfasts, 4 dinners.
7 Day (4 Day Guided then 3 Days Self Guided Camino)
R12 309.00 per person with backpacker accommodation
R10 109.00 per person sharing. Min 2 pax in backpacker accommodation
R16 673.00 per person with guesthouse accommodation
R14 473.00 per person sharing. Min 2 pax in guesthouse accommodation.
Included:
Guide experts for 4 days, Cape Camino Passport (to be signed along the route), 1 Cape Camino t-shirt, maps, 6 nights back packer / guesthouse accommodation, 6 breakfasts, 6 dinners.
CANCELLATION POLICY:
50% deposit secures bookings.
40 days prior to Camino: 100% refundable.
30 days prior to Camino: Non refundable.