Rwanda & South Africa: Primates to Garden Route

Work up a sweat in the gymnasium unlike any you’ve seen before – the great outdoors! Allow our motivating guide to lead you on a kinetic workout through the leafy tracks surrounding our tea plantation. The natural landscape is the only equipment you’ll need for this jungle-style Bootcamp in the fresh, mountain air.

An iconic part of Africa’s history, the spear is a symbol of strength, but it’s also a lot of fun! On a hilltop above our tea plantation, enjoy a refreshing cool drink as you learn how to make your own spear take flight and take in the fabulous fresh air views.

We don’t just exist within Nyungwe’s environment, we exist alongside it, which means conservation is part of our daily routine. Come and explore some of the initiatives that operate within the Nyungwe National Park and also around the resort.

What makes the perfect cup of tea? Some will say it’s all in the brew, but our tea expert will show you it starts right at the beginning. You will be invited to go into the tea plantation and learn the art of picking tea leaves and trying it out on your own. Don’t miss the interactive and visual presentation revealing the process of growing and processing African tea leaves. No demonstration would be complete without a taste, so you will have the chance to sample some beautiful black tea grown in the local area of Gisakura.

Saddle up and explore the beautiful surrounds of our property, with the breeze in your hair, at a pace that suits you. There are a few hills around and some dirt track riding, but let your friendly guide know and we can tailor the journey to your comfort levels.

‘Umuganda’ has roots back to Rwanda’s independence, and is now a nationwide program where citizens devote the last Saturday morning of every month to working in the local community. From developing infrastructure to environmental protection, you can elect to take part in this positive initiative, giving back to the communities of Nyungwe and getting to know the local people in a uniquely hands-on way.

There’s fun for all the family as you dabble in the ancient sport of archery. Located on a hilltop in our property’s tea plantation, prepare to breathe in the fabulous views as you enjoy a refreshing cold drink and set your sights on the bullseye – ready, aim, fire!

Is an art form popular in Rwanda traditionally made by women using cow dung. Often in the colors black, white and red, popular themes include spiral and geometric designs that are painted on walls, pottery, and canvas.

Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House provide a contemplative, nurturing space in which to appreciate the transformative experience of coming face to face with the forest’s gentle giants.

For most guests, a gorilla trek is at the top of their list when they visit Rwanda and a stay at Singita Kwitonda Lodge or Kataza House allows them the privilege to encounter one of Africa’s most majestic and gentle creatures in the wild, while immersed in the beauty of their pristine natural habitat.

The distance of each gorilla trek is varied, so depending on which family group guests are allocated, the duration is anywhere from a couple of hours to a full day. Meals and lodge activities are flexible around each trek.

As children under the age of 15 are unable to participate in gorilla-treks, they will be cared for at the lodge with a variety of supervised activities and educational opportunities on offer.

Rwanda can be visited at any time of the year and gorilla trekking is a year-round activity. The average temperature at Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House is approximately 15 degrees Celsius, although humidity can be high.

Suggested Clothing and Gear:

- For trekking one should have: boots with good grip, gators, gloves, waterproof jacket, thick socks, thick pants to protect against stinging nettles, long sleeved tops.
- For the lodge one should have: pants, long sleeve tops, t-shirts, a warm layer for the evenings, closed shoes, a swimming costume.
- Comfortable walking shoes/track shoes/hiking boots for walks.

Clothing and Gear Available for Use:

We have a variety of technical gear and clothing for our guests to use during their stay at Singita Kwitonda and Kataza House. The items are all designed for outdoor hiking and wet weather, perfectly suited for trekking to see gorillas or other animals in Rwanda. Backpacks including a waterproof rain cover for backpack (camera equip)

- Mens and ladies waterproof jackets with a removable inner fleece lining and hood
- Mens and ladies water-resistant hiking pants
- Hiking chaps in two sizes (gators)
- Hiking poles with extendable options and grips
- Gloves for use during hiking to protect hands from thorns and mud
- Trekking lunch boxes which will hold freshly made lunches chosen by the guests – all eco-friendly packaging
- Singita water bottle

Singita Kwitonda Lodge and Kataza House provides guests, including children, the opportunity to participate in the Golden monkey treks as children under the age of 15 are unable to participate in gorilla-treks.

Named Akarabo – which means ‘little flower’ in Kinyarwanda – our on-site nursery was borne from our commitment to help reforest, rehabilitate and maintain the habitat of Rwanda’s endangered mountain gorillas. Initially, 60,000 saplings were bought from local growers and earmarked for the 178 acres of land Singita Volcanoes National Park sits on. This number quickly grew to 250,000 saplings, even before the lodge opened, and continues to increase as we keep expanding our reforestation efforts in the area.

It’s a privilege to share this lush diversity of plants with our guests. Whether you opt for a gentle stroll along the rows of new trees, past the glorious fragrances of flourishing herbs or through the farm-to-table chef’s garden filled with fresh vegetables, it’s bound to inspire and delight in equal measure.

Providing an authentic taste of Rwanda’s offerings, our garden includes a teahouse serving fresh herbal brews, as well as local artisans such as a basket weaver, seamstress and stick carver showcasing the intricacies of their craft. Echoing our passion for treading lightly on the land, living sustainably and empowering communities, Akarabo is growing – just like the saplings being planted – into a lasting, living legacy.

Guests have the option to explore the local cuisine by participating in cookery classes that are conducted by expert chefs. Both adults and children are welcome to participate in cooking classes.

Singita is recognised as one of Africa’s most influential collectors of wine, with an extensive cellar showcasing a premium selection of wines, including some of the continent’s most sought-after private reserves, including exclusive release, limited single vineyard and rare auction wines. It’s safe to say that wine is a key ingredient of the unique Singita experience.

The Singita wine list has received numerous awards of excellence, the top Diners’ Club Wine List accolade as well as recognition from countless other local and international organisations.

François Rautenbach is responsible for this excellence as the director of Singita Premier Wine, he manages the selection, purchase, storage, and service of all the wines at Singita’s lodges. François also manages Singita Premier Wine Direct which allows guests to order their favourite wines from their safari to enjoy at home. With the Singita Premier Wine Direct service, wines can either be specially packed for guests as checked luggage or shipped directly to a guest’s home.

Personalised wine tastings within the unique ambience of each lodge’s own temperature-controlled cellar are a true guest favourite, for connoisseurs and casual tasters alike. Singita’s experienced sommeliers are able to guide guests through a variety of wine styles, years and cultivars to find the wines most suited to their individual tastes.

As with all that Singita does, community upliftment is central to the Singita wine programme as well. François Rautenbach has created a special training programme for enthusiastic young wine lovers, developing the next generation of sommeliers for Africa. The training provides educational assistance, personal mentoring, formal wine training and access to Africa’s finest wine programme.

The Kigali Genocide Memorial is the final resting place for more than 250,000 victims of the genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda in 1994. Through education and peace-building it honours the memory of the more than one million Rwandans killed. Visitors can take a tour with a guide, or opt for a self-guided audio tour while exploring the memorial and reflecting at their own pace.

Genocide Memorial in Kigali

Nestled along picturesque hilltops, Kigali is a thriving African city immediately notable for its cleanliness, orderliness, and warm hospitality. Kigali, located in the geographic center of the country, is a great place to begin or end any Rwandan adventure. The capital city is vibrant and energetic, and its people are extremely welcoming. Here, travelers can enjoy a number of cultural activities including several award-winning museums, a burgeoning music scene and some of East Africa’s most memorable dining experiences.

Guests at Singita Volcanoes National Park have the unique opportunity to visit the small village of Gasura in the Kinigi sector, which is located 30 minutes from the lodge. The interactive tour takes approximately two hours and includes a range of authentic Rwandese cultural experiences.

Taking guests from house to house in the village, this involves everything from meeting local crafters weaving baskets and carving gorilla-trekking sticks to learning how to process locally produced staples – such as stomping cassava roots and grinding sorghum for flour. It also includes visiting families in their homes to get a glimpse of the local lifestyle.

Cost: $60 per person
Duration: +- 2 hours
Time: Flexible (Suggested - 9am or 2pm)

Guests can visit the Singita Community Culinary School (SCCS) at the MIPC campus in Musanze on special request, and subject to availability, cooking classes with graduates could be arranged for a $100 donation per guest.

*All funds raised are used to support the ongoing work of the Singita Community Culinary School.

This scenic 2.2km (1.4mi) walking/running trail runs behind the lodge. It starts at the main entrance, ascending hilly terrain and meandering through a fragrant eucalyptus forest before finishing at the on-site Akarabo Nursery. The beautiful vistas and sounds of nature are a highlight, and on a clear day, one can see the distant city of Musanze nestled below.

The trail is open and unguided, allowing guests the freedom to explore. However, as the lodge shares its surroundings with buffalo and other wildlife, we advise caution while running or walking. Although buffalo primarily roam during the evenings and move towards the park during the day, we encourage guests to exercise their judgment when utilising the trail, always being mindful of their surroundings and undertaking the experience at their own risk.
This trail offers a sanctuary for keen walkers and runners, where guests can reconnect with nature, find solace, and create lasting memories in the breathtaking "The Land of a Thousand Hills."

*This walking/running trail is seasonal and is best utilized during the drier months - June to September and December to February.

The tranquil and peaceful surroundings of the on-site Akarabo Nursery provide the perfect backdrop for creative expression and pure relaxation. Our nursery is home to a unique pottery wheel-throwing experience, offering our guests a delightful combination of therapy and art.

The pottery studio provides a peaceful space allowing our guests to explore their creativity in addition to an ancient art form as they create beautiful, sculptural and functional pieces with their hands.

In preference, guests will have their pick of bisque items created by skilled local Rwandan potters and can be personalised through glazing and painting.

Accompanied by two well-trained studio staff members committed to ensuring our guests feel welcome and supported, potters can feel at ease as they embark on their pottery-making journey.

The Spa Island at One&Only Cape Town offers benchmark-setting wellness within a secluded oasis.

•The only spa in Africa to use luxury ESPA products, with a focus on elevating, soothing and restoring. A programme created exclusively for One&Only Resorts, Nature’s Resonance by ESPA, combines eco-therapy and vibrational energy to help guests tune into themselves and nature

•The Spa Island also offers French luxury brand Biologique Recherche which has a clinical and personalised approach to skincare using pure, raw, active ingredients

•Spa journeys are guided by a holistic philosophy and include location-inspired treatments such as ‘The Essence of Cape Town’. Other ‘Only Here’ spa treatments promote indigenous healing methods

•Cape Town’s most comprehensive spa experience with the city’s best wet facilities including vitality pools, aroma-steam rooms, ice fountains and experience showers

•A destination spa for discerning locals and visitors who want to experience wellness and ultimate relaxation, and a chance to recharge in luxurious surroundings. They can enjoy the facilities at their own pace, book in for beauty and body therapies, or pair their spa experience with a visit to the fitness centre

Renowned for our love of all things energetic, One&Only Cape Town offers unrivaled active inspiration for all ages and abilities. Work out in our expansive, state-of-the-art gym, complete with expert personal trainers who can tailor the perfect programme. Try yoga or Pilates in our dedicated studios, or get closer to the sun and practice al fresco. Guided excursions promote fitness favorites with a side of sightseeing; Paddle Boarding through the canals, hiking Table Mountain, yoga in the park, and running along the picturesque promenade. The Fitness Centre is open daily from 06.00 - 20.00.

One&Only Cape Town is a renowned destination for family fun, designing incredible adventures all ages can enjoy in harmony, and featuring a complimentary KidsOnly club that’s fully supervised year-round. Bursting with age-appropriate, fun and educational pursuits, 4-12 year olds can enjoy the ever-popular Wii, Xbox and PlayStation hub, active sports, games, art, and outdoor learning,

Our KidsOnly club is open daily from 10.00 - 18.00 for hotel guests, and with the beautiful sunny Cape Town spring weather, children can enjoy daily outdoor activities.

Relax in chic comfort as you are presented with a decadent South African cheese and wine tasting experience, highlighting five prestigious vintages from the Cape’s most exquisite wine farms. Cape Town is well known for its vibrant culinary scene, and One&Only Cape Town places itself at the heart of the action. Taste the varied flavours of the landscape in this brief exploration into the local wine scene during a private tasting with Luvo Ntezo, Head Sommelier, taking place at the Resort’s Tasting Table, a sophisticated space that showcases but a sample of the resort’s impressive offering.

Duration: 1 hour
When: Daily, 12pm-6pm
Level of difficulty: Easy
Min/max persons: Minimum 1, maximum 8
Meeting point: The Tasting Table
Includes: Tasting of 5 top South African wines, cheese board
Restrictions: This activity should be booked 72-hours in advance, and there is a 48-hour cancellation policy. Guests must be 18 years or older.

The Tasting Table Credit: One&Only Cape Town

The Cape Winelands is a lush area in which many of the world’s top
wines are produced. Several areas make up the Cape Winelands, most
notably Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Together they home hundreds
of exceptional farms - making it challenging to know which to visit in a
potentially limited time. One&Only Cape Town’s expert Sommelier Team
lead guests on a bespoke wine tasting experience to remember. Each excursion is done according to personal preferences, with freedom to visit choice wine farms for the ideal day of tasting, interacting with winemakers and learning the unique histories of the farms. It includes
luxury transport and a spectacular winelands lunch.

When: Daily, 8am-6pm, full day tour and can be tailored as required. Meeting Point: Porte Cochere Level of Difficulty: Easy
Min/max persons: Min 2, max 8
Includes: Return transfers with Jarat Tours, lunch and tasting fees for 3 wine farms
Please note: This activity should be booked 72-hours in advance, and there is a 48-hour cancellation policy. Guests must be 18 years and older.

Kindly see our Oenology brochure for all on-resort wine experiences

One&Only Cape Town is home to the only Nobu in Africa – part of the renowned group headed by world-class master Chef Nobuyuki ‘Nobu’ Matsuhisa. Nobu gives classical Japanese cuisine a contemporary twist with a Peruvian influence. Nobu Cape Town offers an exciting Masterclass where guests can learn how to prepare Nobu’s signature dishes and enjoy sensational Sake pairings. This exceptional experience includes a Tempura or Toban Yaki cooking demonstration
of cold dishes at the sushi bar and hot dishes in the main kitchen; a presentation of Sake and other beverages by Nobu’s Sommelier Team; a souvenir take home recipe pack; and most importantly, guests will dine at the sushi bar, having the hot dishes prepared and served family-style before them.

When: Daily, 12pm–3pm, for 2.5 hours
Meeting Point: Nobu sushi counter
Level of Difficulty: Medium
Min/max persons: Min 2, max 16
Includes: Sake Tasting, Lunch prepared during cooking class, apron, and Cooking Certificate from Nobu Head Chef.
Please note: This activity should be booked 48-hours in advance, and there is a 24-hour cancellation policy.
Guests must be 10 years and older and over 18 for Sake or Wine Tasting. Guests to specify any
dietary restrictions in advance.

South Africa is often described as a Rainbow Nation, home to many diverse cultures. As a result, there is a variety of influences in every aspect of South African life, including its cooking. One&Only Cape Town invites guests to join them on a ‘Cooking Tale of Two Sisters’, an edible creative experience of sweet delights, loved by locals and made from the same ingredients but looking and tasting distinctly different. One sweet, one fried makes for each bite to be a unique experience. Learn about the history of these pastries, their place in South African culture in the current day and take the knowledge of these
delicious treats home with you. Lead by the resort’s pastry team, this hands-on session in the resort pastry kitchen is ideal for families. Everyone will receive the Chef’s tried and tested personal recipes in a souvenir pack, as well as a One&Only apron.

When: Daily, for 2 hours
Meeting Point: Pastry Kitchen
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Min/ max persons: Min 2, max 8
Includes: One&Only Cape Town apron, certificate from our Pastry Chef, recipe card.
Please note: This activity should be booked 48-hours in advance, and there is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Guests must be 12 years and older, or otherwise accompanied by parent. Guests to specify any dietary restrictions in advance.

Discover the mesmerising and private V&A Waterfront waterways by SUP (stand-up paddle board), with historic landmarks and breathtaking views of Table Mountain along the way. The activity provides an exhilarating and unique experience, suited for people of all athletic abilities. Guides are available to coach and assist, and ensure guests feel at ease throughout the experience.

When: Daily, for 30 or 60 minutes, weather dependent
Meeting Point: Battery park
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Min/max persons: Min 1, max 8
Includes: Life jacket and SUP
Please note: This activity should be booked with concierge 48-hours in advance, and there is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Guests must be 10 years and older, and have a parental consent if under 18 years. with parent’s consent.

A trip to the Cape Winelands begins with a stop at the beautiful Simonsig Wine Estate. There you will have a behind- the-scenes tour of a working wine farm, to experience first-hand the process involved in
producing the ‘champagne of South Africa’ - known as Cap Classique, or CC. As the first estate to bottle CC in South Africa, and the suppliers of One&Only Cape Town’s very own CC, Simonsig Wine Estate makes for a superb day out, picking grapes,
experimenting in viniculture and enjoying a leisurely lunch at the estate restaurant, Cuvee. The wine estate boasts lush outdoor spaces, large enough for children to run around, and even offers a special grape juice tasting for younger guests. This fun and interactive day in the winelands also includes luxury transportation to and from, a delicious winelands lunch as well as a winemaker certificate to remember the experience by.

When: Daily, 8am-6pm, full day tour (Only during Harvest time: January – March)
Meeting Point: Porte Cochere
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Min/max persons: Min 1, max 8
Includes: Return transfers with Jarat Tours, lunch and tasting fees, winemaker certificate
Please note: This activity should be booked 72-hours in advance, and there is a 48-hour cancellation policy.
Guests must be 18 years and older.

This class blends the expert barista skills with the best coffee beans in town to give an encompassing class on the art of coffee. Using premium crafted beans from local coffee house, Bootlegger Coffee Company, this one-hour curated experience is conducted by one of the resort’s skilled baristas, guiding guests step-by-step to produce the perfect ‘cupof- joe’. A walk through of the different blends, types of coffees, history of the drink and exploration of the machinery are all to be looked forward to. From frothing the milk to brewing the perfect cup, every step is demonstrated and perfected in this fun and interactive masterclass designed to take coffee making skills to the next level. Included in the experience is a personalised One&Only apron.

When: Daily, 9am-5pm, for 1 hour
Meeting point: Ochre Kitchen Bar
Level of difficulty: Medium
Min/max persons: Min 1, max 8
Includes: Apron and Barista Certificate
Please note: This activity should be booked 48-hours in advance, and there is a 24-hour cancellation policy.
Guests must be 12 years and older.

A fun and interactive mixology masterclass, this session takes place at Vista’s iconic bar and showcases a number of One&Only Cape Town’s Signature cocktails. From learning the basics to creating old classics and everything in-between, this unique experience teaches you how to elevate
even the simplest of cocktails – along with learning a mixology trick or two! Conducted by one of the resort’s master mixologists, guests will enjoy the fruits of their labour and leave having learnt a new skill to take home with them.

When: Daily, 12pm-6pm, for 2 hours
Meeting point: Vista Bar
Level of difficulty: Medium
Min/max persons: Minimum 2, maximum 8
Includes: 2 Cocktails per person, apron, mixology certificate.
Please note: This activity should be booked 48-hours in advance, and there is a 24-hour cancellation
policy. Guests must be 18 years and older

For the restless spirit and the adventurous amongst us, this is the experience for you. Conquer one of two iconic Cape Town mountain peaks, Table Mountain or Lion’s Head. Both are conveniently situated near the city centre. Table Mountain, one of the 7 Wonders of the Natural World, offers hikers several routes in varying degrees of difficulty, and One&Only Cape Town’s qualified hiking guides will
recommend the best route to match athletic and mountaineering ability. Lion’s Head, a hugely popular summit for locals and international visitors alike is another option, boasting incredible 360-degree
views of the city and ample photo opportunities. Both are ideal for sunrise adventures, when there is less foot traffic and beautiful morning light. Luxury transfers, snacks and refreshments are included - with gourmet picnics also being available on request, at an additional charge, to be enjoyed along your hike.

When: Daily, for 2 to 4 hours, weather dependent (Mountain Guides may cancel a hike due to weather conditions)
Meeting Point: Porte Cochere
Level of Difficulty: Easy to Difficult
Min/max persons: Min 2, max 8
Includes: Return transfers with Jarat Tours, snacks and refreshments.
Please note: This activity should be booked 48-hours in advance, and there is a 24-hour cancellation policy. Guests must be 16 years and older, or otherwise accompanied
by parent. Guests to specify any dietary restrictions in advance.

Practice yoga atop one of the most iconic landmarks, the ancient and majestic Table Mountain, an experience never to be repeated. It begins with a luxury transfer from the resort to the Table Mountain cableway, where guests will be comfortably lifted to the summit by cable car. Once at the top, the resort’s experienced and qualified yoga instructor will guide guests through a one-hour yoga practice, with sprawling views of Cape Town beneath and the richest floral kingdom on earth all around. This is the perfect excursion to restore balance and harmony, while enjoying the magnificent sights of South Africa’s Mother City.

When: Daily, for 4 hours, weather dependent
Meeting Point: Porte Cochere
Level of Difficulty: Medium
Min/max persons: Min 1, max 6
Includes: Transfers to and from Table Mountain, water, snacks, yoga mats and hiking bags. (A return cable way ticket is required to be booked by each guest, and is not included.)
Please note: This activity should be booked 48-hours in advance, with a 24-hour cancellation policy.

Get up close and personal with these much-loved creatures of the sea during this behind the- cenes experience in partnership with the Two Oceans Aquarium Education Foundation. Neighbours to One&Only Cape Town, the Foundation actively rescues, rehabilitates and releases stranded and distressed sea turtles as part of their conservation mission. Through them hundreds of sea turtles have been saved, cared for and released back into the wild. In this private excursion, guests will be able to participate and assist with turtle care tasks such as feeding, cleaning and enrichment exercises. Following this, guests are free to explore the Two Oceans Aquarium’s attractions such as the touch pool, shark exhibit, kelp forest and penguin exhibit at leisure. This is a fun, interactive and educational experience, perfect for children and adults alike. All proceeds go towards the non-profit Aquarium Foundation’s Turtle Rescue Programme.

When: By appointment only
Meeting Point: Porte Cochere
Level of Difficulty: Easy
Min/max persons: Min 1, max 4
Includes: Private excursion, full-day access to the Two Oceans Aquarium, a One&Only Cape Town chaperone to the aquarium
Please note: This activity should be booked 7 days in advance. This is an ever changing space and there is a seasonal nature to our program. The activities will be tailor made dependent
on time of year. Not suitable for children under 12. Deposit required to secure booking.

Feel like an expert as you lose yourself in the art of wine blending and become immersed in the process of perfecting your ideal blend, selecting from several local varietals and vintages, and fine-tuning the tannins, notes, and flavour profiles as you go. A singular experience for any wine lover, with the resulting creation yours to be savoured or gifted as you wish.

Duration: 3 hours
When: Daily, 12pm- 6pm
Level of difficulty: Easy
Min/ max persons: Minimum 2, maximum 6
Meeting point: Wine Studio
Includes: A bottle of your blended wine, cheese board and a certificate from our sommelier
Restrictions: This activity should be booked 72-hours in advance, and there is a 48-hour cancellation policy. Guests must be 18 years or older.

There’s something special about seeing a place on horseback. Take a slow trot as you appreciate the views or ride down the sweeping sand dunes, the fresh air filling your lungs and exhilaration pumping through your veins.

Horse riding at Grootbos is suitable for anyone, whether you’re a complete novice or a more experienced rider. Go for a relaxed ride through the fynbos or ride one of our special horses that are specifically trained for the beach. Our 22 horses at the Grootbos stables are well exercised and expertly trained, while all of our guides have years of experience in dealing with these noble animals.

The Southern Right whales visit Walker Bay each year and being witness to them in action whilst they breach and blow is a very special experience to observe.These peaceful giants of the deep come to Walker Bay to mate and calf in the sanctuary of the Bay.. The Walker Bay rocky outcrops offer close viewing points from elevated positions.The Grootbos guides know all the best spots and this guided experience is an experience of a lifetime.

Grootbos Nature Reserve has an exclusive boat trip, through Dyer Island Cruises, leaving every morning from Kleinbaai harbour. Besides seeing the amazing whales, this trip offers a complete experience of the Marine Big5, which includes the whales, dolphins, African Penguins, Cape Fur Seals and surface viewing of the Great White Shark. The boat comfortably accommodates 20 guests, has a toilet, upper decks, shelter from the sun as well as snacks and drinks provided onboard. The boat also has specialized guides, who can provide all the facts about the whales as well as other interesting information about the magnificent marine life. As these gentle giants are very curious, they often swim right up to the boat to get a better view of the boat and the guests. This trip takes about 2 hours and is a marine experience not to be missed!

Boat-based whale watching is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

One of the most exciting experiences at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is the Great White Shark cage diving. Gansbaai has the reputation for being the shark capital of the world. Divers and adventurers travel from all over the world to watch this magnificent creature in the waters around Dyer Island. Every day a number of boats leave Kleinbaai harbour to spend a few hours on the water to view the Great White Sharks from the boat or to go diving in a cage with these elegant and large predators. This is a once in a lifetime experience not to be missed!

Cage Diving (No diving experience required!)
This is truly one of the most adventurous activities on our planet, coming face to face with the Great White Shark. No diving experience is required, and all equipment is provided on board. When the sharks are around the boat, the divers get into the cage and the shark is lured to within meters from the cage. As the shark approaches, divers duck under water and marvel in amazement as this awe inspiring creature swims past the cage.

Surface Viewing
Grootbos guests have the choice to either enter the cage on the shark boat or view these magnificent creatures from the top deck of the boat. Surface Viewing is normally suitable for people wanting to see the shark from out of water and not necessarily come face to face with it inside the water. However, it is often commented that one gets a better view of the sharks from the top deck.

Shark Cage Diving is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Keep still, listen intently and you’ll be amazed at the things you learn on a botanical safari. With the richest temperate flora in the world and six completely new species never discovered by science before, your time at Grootbos will mean that you’ll never look at plants and flowers in quite the same way again.

The 800 recorded plant species in our 2500 hectares of pristine wilderness will bring the fascinating story of fynbos and forest to life as you touch, smell and see the natural miracles that surround you. Learn how a sunbird’s beak fits perfectly into a flower, why the honey our bees produce is completely unique and how important ravaging fires are for bringing forth new life.

As a guest at Grootbos, there are so many different ways to enjoy the beach. You can take a long, relaxing walk on a solitary shore; laze in the sun on the luxurious white sand; or explore the unique coastal ecosystem while looking out for frolicking whales.

Our guides know exactly where to take you for the best swimming, tanning, walking, whale watching, angling and several other oceanic experiences on offer. We’ll transport you to and from the beach and provide you with a picnic lunch and all the beach accessories you need to enjoy your day in the sun.

Grootbos also offers guided beach tours where you can learn about the unique intertidal ecosystem; the abundant marine life; the coastal vegetation; and the geological forces that gave this coast its dramatic form.

A Bird's eyeview of Birding at Grootbos
Birding is akin to stargazing. On cloudless days, you see a myriad of these jewels flickering and floating in the sky, and once you know where and what to look for, you are transfixed by the ethereal pattern and order in their endless motion.
The Grootbos reserve and surrounding areas are a magnet to a wide variety of rare and endemic bird species feeding and breeding in the rich and diverse habitats. You know birding is not for the birds when you see how the Malachite Sunbird, with its bright green iridescent plumage, compete for attention with the flowering aloes and proteas. Grootbos is a birder friendly establishment endorsed by Birdlife SA. Our knowledgeable guides are geared to give bird watchers of all levels a winged overview of these magnificent creatures that enliven our skies and flora with their beauty and procreative activities.
Let's face it, the dazzling tapestry of fynbos wildflowers on Grootbos is not meant to attract tourists - the colourful displays of petals are nature's magic to lure birds and other pollinators to their nectar in exchange for spreading their pollen.

The beaks of the conspicuous endemic Orange-breasted Sunbird and the Southern Double-collared Sunbird are tailor-made for sipping the sweet stuff from the floral tubes of the various Erica species. You cannot miss the male Cape Sugarbird, with its ridiculously long tail (almost 70% of its total length), feeding on the nectar of Protea species. The impressive tail is solely a decorative testimony to manhood - the longer, the better! They whip their tails to attract females and ward off rivals.
In breeding season (September to April) Grootbos guests will encounter a magnitude of feisty and friendly fellows sticking together albeit they are not of the same feather. The diverse habitats - from fynbos, Milkwood and Afromontane forests to riverine scrub and mountain slopes - accommodate at least 120 different bird species, of which 30% are endemic or near endemic to Southern Africa. These include specials such as the Knysna Woodpecker, Cape Clapper-lark and the Southern Tchagra.

Flagship raptors of the area are the majestic Black Harrier, Jackal Buzzard, Forest Buzzard and African Fish-Eagle. The nearby agricultural fields are home to Blue Cranes, the Agulhas Long-billed Lark and the Denham’s Bustard.
Coastal Birding Tours
Grootbos, in partnership with Dyer Island Cruises, also takes guests on a "game viewing" cruise to Dyer Island, where endemics such as the African Black Oystercatcher, Hartlaub’s Gull, Crowned-, Cape- and Bank Cormorant, African Penguin as well as the Cape Gannet flourish. Pelagic species such as the Shy Albatross, Sooty Shearwater and Giant Petrels are also seen from time to time.

The Klipgat Cave outside De Kelders evokes vivid images of pre-historic times when modern man lived haply in symbiotic harmony with nature off the bounty of land and sea when the coastline was still kilometres away. This historical site in the Walker Bay was home to Middle Stone Age peoples some 70 000 to 80 000 years ago when large antelope such as black wildebeest and the extinct “blaauwbok” still abounded in the bay where dolphins, seals and whales now flourish.

Archaeological findings indicate that these primitive folks mainly lived off plants and smaller animals such as dune mole rats, tortoises and hares. They hunted steenbok and eland, while seabirds, shellfish and seals also formed an important part of their diet.

Dubbed Klipgat Cave (stone with a hole) after the remarkable window-like openings in the limestone rock formations that yield spectacular views of the bay and sea, the site is one of the most important cultural assets in the Western Cape. Innumerable stories of the perils and pleasures of yesteryear’s peoples unfold as layer upon layer of deposits reveal fascinating secrets of the tides, temperatures and living conditions of those early times. Later Stone Age pastoralists, believed to be the Khoekhoen/Khoikhoi, already kept sheep, and probably even cattle and dogs, in this area as early as 2 000 years ago.

They chiselled tools such as “needles” and “spatulas” out of bone to create ornaments, shell beads and pendants. Ostrich eggs were fashioned into water flasks, and tortoise shells served as bowls. These artefacts and bone samples are on display in the Cape Town Museum.

Unfortunately, the bulk of tell-tale everyday details of the loves and losses of man’s early ancestors is forever buried in the crags and crevices of this early home. Around 1713, a devastating smallpox epidemic claimed the lives of the entire local human population. The Klipgat Cave is of World Heritage significance and managed by Cape Nature Conservation.

For those who just want to relax we offer an array of spa treatments. It is time to tip-toe into a slower world where the mind can drift away on the vapors of luxurious scents, such as sandalwood, arnica and buchu, while the body melts under the soothing touch of our fully qualified beauty therapist. Pampering takes place in the comfort of your own suite. For the tired body, a therapeutic full body massage is a definite must, leaving you in a state of absolute calmness. For the weary feet, reflexology, including a footbath, will most certainly do the trick. Manicures, pedicures, facials and a host of other treatments are available on request in our Bloom Beauty Salon or in the privacy of the suites at Grootbos.

Spa Treatments are not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Enjoy an entrancing stroll through our Milkwood forest or a more revitalising hike up our fynbos-clad mountains, as you begin to understand what makes Grootbos quite so special. From a sunbird sipping from a flower to an ocean vista that leaves you breathless, surprises await you around every corner.

Trails are all well marked and you can choose between self-guided walks or guided walks, to learn more about these fascinating and secretive eco-systems. Gaze into the petals of a King Protea, breathe in the blackcurrant scent of buchu or simply listen to the exquisite silence that surrounds you.

Hop aboard the Lady Stanford river boat for a iconic and tranquil river cruise that winds its way gently along the picturesque Klein River, toward the Hermanus lagoon. Spend time on the open upper and lower decks of this modern eco-friendly river boat with its quiet, four-stroke boat engines, as you watch a kaleidoscope of natural colour go by.

No expense has been spared when it comes to comfort and luxury on board this vessel that most definitely stands out from the rest. A qualified skipper and experienced interactive guide, who intimately knows the river and all it has to offer, will ensure this journey is a memorable one. The Klein River features more than a hundred bird species which include majestic fish eagles, a flamboyance of pink flamingos and the ever spectacular, blue crane. Keep an eye out for otters, bontebok and horses grazing on the fertile river banks, as you make your way toward the lagoon. Lady Stanford runs daily trips for individual passengers as well as being available exclusively for private functions. The boat can comfortably accommodate 26 passengers.

The River Cruise is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Take a tour with heart as you discover how the entire Grootbos experience has been designed around benefitting the community and environment around you. Learn and connect as you witness how our various projects are changing lives and conserving this protected wilderness.

What is progressive tourism? It’s a term we coined to explain a new way of living that is at the heart of the entire Grootbos experience. It’s about every action we take benefitting someone else or having a positive impact on the environment.
From the freshly grown tomatoes you eat at lunch, to the recycled candles in your room, to the earrings you buy at the gift shop – we’re constantly seeking out new ways to create sustainable livelihoods for the people who call this unique area home.

This is the ultimate ride from Grootbos Nature Reserve down the mountain to the top of the Sand Dunes. The trail to the dunes is special, running on a narrow sandy horse trail through the Fynbos.
When reaching the dunes we will make our way up and across to reach a fantastic downhill section where we will pick up speed before reaching the top of our first vertical dune face. After a briefing on how to ride down the dune we down the face but for those just wanting an easy ride you can go around the side where it is an easy slope. The dune face may feel impossible and dangerous to do but the ride is in fact very controlled and the sand will slow the bike down.

What your mind tells you is impossible will in fact be very enjoyable and easy. I will be at the bottom of the dunes videoing your challenges so remember to smile. I will also teach you how to do slalom like a skiier on a snow ski slope. This is excellent fun on a bike and not too difficult to achieve. After the dunes we will pick up a 4x4 trail down to the beach. From there we will head back up to the car park but for those who are already tired I can bring the 4x4 down to the rocks so you do not have to ride up.

Fat Biking is not part of the standard Grootbos activities included in your rate.

Visit the home of the recently launched Grootbos Florilegium. The Hannarie Wenhold Botanical Art Gallery built on Grootbos Nature Reserve is an innovative space dedicated to the Florilegium’s fine botanical artworks and is a celebration of the hard work of all involved over the last five years.

The Grootbos Florilegium is the first contemporary African florilegium. Its intention is to celebrate and honor the Cape fynbos and the Cape Floral Kingdom in the southern Overberg, as a valuable botanical heritage of South Africa and as a record of the many rare, endemic and endangered plants of the region. The Florilegium is a global collaboration, featuring carefully selected botanical artists. 35 celebrated artists from South Africa, Zimbabwe, Reunion and the United Kingdom have lent their talent and expertise to the collaboration. A further 9 come from countries including the Netherlands, Brazil, the USA, Japan, Germany, South Korea and Italy.

The Grootbos Florilegium is representing nothing less than the best of the international botanical arts community.

At Shamwari Private Game Reserve, we not only offer our guests 5-star luxury accommodation, but pride ourselves on presenting wildlife interaction that is sure to be the highlight of your stay. Coupled with the African horizon and spectacular skies, we offer game drives through the reserve for an experience of a lifetime.

Our game viewing drives are available for morning and afternoon trips, as this is when the animals are most active. Our vehicles are open and comfortable, and give you a panoramic view of the area. You’ll be guided by one of our trained game rangers who’ll take you and your party through the reserve, encountering many animals along the way.

If you have a particular area of interest, you’re welcome to inform your guide who will include it along the journey, if possible.

In order to ensure that you have a memorable experience, we want you to be prepared and comfortable. We highly recommend you bring:

Binoculars
Cameras
Warm clothing
Sunscreen
Hat

The game drives themselves last for approximately three to four hours and take you through the reserve. Included on the game drive is a coffee stop for the morning drive and a sun-downer stop in the evening.

Our rangers are experts at navigating the Shamwari terrain and are readily available to answer any questions you may have. If there is a certain species you’re hoping to spot, or an area you wish to visit, chat to your coordinator to make arrangements.

We do suggest mentioning any special requests you may have when you make your booking. That way, we can advise you on the ideal time of year to visit, which lodge to stay at, and make any other arrangements that might be needed.

Unfortunately, no children under the age of 4 are permitted on the game drives; however we can arrange a childminder at an additional cost.

For a truly African safari experience, consider Shamwari Private Game Reserve as your next destination.

Not only do we offer unforgettable views and 5-star luxury accommodation, but we also have a host of activities available, including bird watching.

This malaria-free area of the Eastern Cape, South Africa, is home to a host of wild game, Big 5, and beautiful birds. Ornithologists and bird watching hobbyists alike are treated to an array of birds of prey sightings, including:

Black Shouldered Kites
Booted Eagles
Pale Chanting Goshawks
Secretary birds

Additionally, Shamwari Private Game Reserve has several bodies of water located throughout the reserve, which means it’s the ideal opportunity to catch sight of:

African Darters
African Shelducks
Hamerkops
Malachite Kingfishers
Three-banded Lapwings

These are a few special birds that we are privileged to see here. Specialist guides, who know the habits and habitats of these birds, will do their utmost to get you a sighting of these birds in their natural environment.

Olive Bush Shrike (Ruddy form)
White Backed Night Heron
Black Harrier
Denhams Bustard
Narina Trogon

Whether you set out on a game drive, go on a guided walk or simply watch from your balcony, bird watching is such a relaxing activity. In order to get the most from your safari experience, we highly recommend that you come fully prepared with these items:

Binoculars
Bird reference book
Cameras and lenses
Personal notebook
Warm clothing

In collaboration with the Born Free Foundation, the Big Cat Rescue and Education Centres are situated within our game reserve. They aim to draw attention to the plight of wild cats, confined in impoverished, captive environments throughout the world.

It’s the mission of The Born Free Foundation, founded by actress and conservationist Virginia McKenna and her late husband Bill Travers, to ‘Keep Wildlife in the Wild’. Both Shamwari and Born Free aim to promote conservation and protect these species and their habitat, whilst maintaining a compassionate approach to the welfare of animals. The rescue and education centres home rescued lions and leopards from across the world and aim to be an enlightening experience for all visitors.

The Born Free Foundation is a UK based wildlife charity organisation that rescues animals from captivity and gives them lifetime care in spacious sanctuaries. The charity protects threatened species including lions, elephants, tigers, gorillas, wolves, bears, marine turtles and much more in their natural habitat. Working with local communities Born Free finds humane solutions to help people and wildlife live together without conflict.

Since its inception in 1984, it has grown and been backed by celebrities, conservationists and passionate institutions worldwide, like Shamwari Private Game Reserve.

At Shamwari Private Game Reserve we’re passionate about the conservation of nature and the animals within the reserve. One of our endeavours includes the Shamwari Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, which helps to rescue, rehabilitate and care for sick, injured, abandoned or orphaned animals under the care of our professional veterinary team. Once these animals have been nursed back to health, they are released back into their natural habitat.

Guests staying at Shamwari have the opportunity to visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

Shamwari partnered with Vulpro, which is the only vulture conservation organization of its kind on the continent, spearheading population restocking and supplementation to address the severe decline of African vulture species.

Vulpro @ Shamwari offers a safe, well-balanced ecosystem for both in-situ and ex-situ conservation programmes and provides financial support and sustainability. Importantly it limits risk because the largest captive breeding population of vultures isn’t concentrated in one location. In addition, Shamwari’s anti-poaching unit provides good security.

Guests staying at Shamwari have the opportunity to visit VulPro which is adjacent to the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre.

Escape to Shamwari Private Game Reserve and enjoy a safari spa experience in the wilderness surrounds of the Eastern Cape. Our spa retreats will leave you feeling revitalised and rejuvenated, with treatments that are proven to be beneficial for the mind, body and soul.

Shamwari spa treatments are the ideal way to unwind and each of our offerings are created for men and women. Our luxury wellness retreats are based at certain lodges, but treatments can be arranged for guests staying in any of our other luxury accommodations.

Eagles Crag has 2 treatments rooms, a hydro bath, sauna and steam room.

We have a host of safari spa treatments available to you should you make a booking at Shamwari’s Relaxation Retreats.

In addition to the available treatments, our luxury health retreats also have retail products on sale.

In addition to spectacular game drives, Shamwari Game Reserve also offers professionally guided walking tours. Here, you can gain a true perspective of the flora and fauna indigenous to the region. Your guide can point out animal tracks, dung, hiding spots, rare birds and educate you on the area and its history.

Unfortunately, no children under the age of 16 or adults over the age of 65 (unless provided with a doctor’s certificate of fitness) are permitted on these walks.