Kuda

The Ultimate Kayak Adventures In Cape Town South Africa

Kayak Tours In Cape Town

Cape town, South Africa is one of the world’s premier tourist destinations. It is know for its unique architecture, vibrant nightlife, iconic mountain and a culinary scene that has international foodies coming back for more year after year. However, if there is one group of people who flock to Cape Town in enormous numbers summer or winter it is those who want to experience the unique nature of the Cape’s flora and Fauna. It is the natural beauty and diversity of the areas that surround the city that is one of its biggest draw cards.

But it is not only on land that the natural wonders of Cape Town shine – it is also in the rich waters that surround the Cape Peninsula.

Cape Point South Africa

Kayakers are especially drawn to these water due to the opportunity to interact with many of the marine creatures such as whales and dolphins that transit the area or call it home. Taking to the waters that surround the Cape also offers a unique viewpoint from which to enjoy the spectacular scenery of the Cape.

There are a number of Cape Town tours that are offered by kayak operators in the city – here are three of the best.

The opportunity to view Cape Town’s African Penguins (now more properly known as African Penguins) after a two hour Kayak trip leaving from Simon’s Town is often too good an opportunity for Kayakers to pass up. These diminutive penguins are the stars of the show that uses Foxy’s Beach as a stage – and viewing them from the ocean is a fabulous experience. The two hour trip also takes in magnificent views of the Peninsula. Leaving from the Simon’s town harbor this is an experience to be truly savored – made even more fun by the occasional seal who will frolic next to the Kayaks and often stare curiously at these new visitors.

African Penguin

For a unique experience and a view of the Cape that will provide memories to the select few who want to enjoy the calm and serenity of the rising of a full moon in one of Africa’s most settings the Full Moon Rising Paddle trip is an experience that every person who loves Kayaking or who loves the Ocean and nature in general should not miss.

The Full Moon Rising Paddle Trip takes Kayakers out on to the waters of False Bay in the months of March and October. This timing ensures that the rising of the moon coincides with the setting of the sun. From the offshore vantage point the full splendor of the moon rise over the majestic Hottentots Holland Mountains can be savored during the two hour excursion. Under the guidance of an expert no previous experience is necessary to enjoy this once in a lifetime opportunity.

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On the Atlantic side of the Cape Peninsula Kayakers can enjoy the spectacular scenery on a trip along the coast – including Cape Town’s famed ‘millionaires Mile’ where the rich and famous come to enjoy the spectacular scenery and laid back atmosphere of the city. These trips launch from Moullie Point and those taking to the waters will be able to take in views of well known Cape town landmarks such as Signal Hill, Table Mountain and Lion’s Head.

The trip also offers the opportunity to view some of Cape Town’s iconic ocean life such as penguins, whales and dolphins – the odd Harbor Seal might also cruise by. There are numerous tour operators offering this Kayaking option and excursions can last from an hour to a half day. Sunset trips are also available – and the opportunity to enjoy one of the world’s most spectacular evening spectacles should not be missed.

5 Best Cape Town Hikes

cape town hiking

A Beginner’s Guide To The Five Best Cape Town Hiking Trails

 

Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities on earth and high-quality hiking sites are plentiful in this South African area. The hike can be completed either independently, with a group or using the services of a qualified guide – many times the latter being the recommended course of action. The reason people choose to hike with a guide is because he or she will provide you with information about the area and you can learn more about the South African agriculture. The Cape Floral Region is a UNESCO World heritage site and the plants are home to approximately 20% of the African continent’s flora.

One of the most tranquil areas in Cape Town with the closest proximity to premium hiking trails (mentioned below) is Afton Grove. While the information below is brief, this article will provide data on the top five hiking sites available for avid hikers looking to explore the beauty of the Cape.

1. The Silvermine Nature Reserve

Located only ten minutes drive away from Afton Grove is the Silvermine Nature Reserve hiking trail. This is a highly enjoyable trail for individuals who are interested in hiking through a leafy forest and over grassy plains. An all-season hiking trail, the Silvermine Nature Reserve takes you through the rare indigenous forest overlooking the Cape Peninsula – a unique and breath-taking sight.

Hiking in Cape Town

A stream runs through the forest and heads towards the mountain reservoir providing a sense of tranquillity for hikers. It should also be mentioned that by following the stream, you can reach the mountain pass at Constantiaberg where the entrance to the Elephant’s Eye cave is situated.

2. The Kalk Bay Caves

The Kalk Bay Caves hiking trail is arguably one of the most well-known trails along the Cape peninsula and is located fifteen minutes drive from Afton Grove. It is a short trail measuring on 4km, but the alterations in walking can make the hike seem much longer.

The Kalk Bay Caves hiking trail begins directly above the Kalk Bay harbour along Boyes Drive and will lead you through all six of the caves. Do not fear, all the caves are well-ventilated and safe to explore; however, it is recommended that you take a torch and string along as they are sandstone caves with sandy floors. It is also advised that you wear old clothing as the sand can damage any garments worn.

This hike site is unique in that there is an unusual diversion when heading through the Boomslang Cave. It is a short distance, approximately 100 metres, but will head through the mountain completely with the majority of adults having to crawl.

3. The Peers Cave, Fish Hoek Trail

The Peers Cave, Fish Hoek hiking trail is located only ten minutes drive from Afton Grove and is one of the shortest sites in Cape Town. It is a simple trail taking approximately 20 minutes to complete and stretches across the dunes in Fish Hoek from Fish Hoek to Peers Cave. The cave is a significant site because it is a national monument housing the human remains of the ‘Fish Hoek Man’ – an archaeological find discovered in 1927 by Victor and Bertram Peers.

4. The Cape Of Good Hope

One of the most popular hiking sites in Cape Town is the Cape of Good Hope. It is located on the south-westernmost point of Africa in the Table Mountain National Park making it a well-known tourist attraction. The trail itself is barely a trail and hikers walk less than 1km; however, the trail is quite steep and can be difficult to manage without the correct equipment. The bonus of arriving at the top of the mountain is viewing the original Cape of Good Hope lighthouse.

5. The Cape Point Nature Reserve

For hikers with more stamina, the Cape Point Nature Reserve may be the best option as a hiking trail. Unlike the aforementioned shorter trails, this hike involves at least six hours of rambling through untouched fauna and flora. Over 1,000 different types of vegetation can be viewed including the rare Cape Sugarbird.

Top 5 MTB Destinations in the World

top 5 mtb destinations in the world

Mountain biking is a fun and thrilling sport for those you love physical activity, beautiful scenery, and adventure. MTB trails can vary from pleasant rides to challenging technical single-track. Here are the top 5 MTB destinations in the world:

Mustang, Nepal

Surrounded by some of the most breathtaking mountainous scenery, Mustang is definitely one of the top MTB destinations in the world. Mustang is a ‘must do’ for those who want to experience Himalayan riding. Most MTB riders start their journey near Annapurna or at the nearby airports in Jomsom or Kathmandu. Mountain Biking in the Mustang region of Nepal is an exceptional adventure because it has a history dating back centuries, with a wealth of cultural heritage strongly anchored in Buddhism. This MTB destination is perfect for experienced mountain bikers who love the gorgeous scenery and local culture. Lo Manthang is considered one of the best trails in Mustang.

Alps, France

The Alps is not only the most common destination for British mountain bikers, it is also among the top MTB destinations in the world. The alpine sceneries are breathtaking, typical old wooden mountain chalets, lush green and flower covered pastures, snow-covered peaks, glaciers cascading from mountain tops, and cows with their jingling bells. This MTB destination is for hardcore mountain bikers because of its thrilling downhills and natural single tracks.  Whatever your discipline is, Enduro, All Mountain, XC or downhill, you will surely have a good ride in the Alps.

top 5 mtb destinations in the world

Rotorua New Zealand

New Zealand’s Rotorua has been described by many as one of the best places to ride your mountain bike. This MTB destination is a great place for mountain biking throughout the year. It is also an affordable destination for bikers traveling on a budget. Rotorua is famous for the Whakarewarewa Forest with a diverse and unique network of over 100km MTB trails. These trails in lush surroundings make Rotorua a must-ride destination. It has XC trails and downhill courses for intermediate and expert mountain bike enthusiasts. In fact, Rotorua claims the title of the “best trails in the world”. Moreover, this MTB destination also has some thermal hot springs nearby to soak those sore muscles after your ride.

Park City, Utah

Park City not only offers the spectacular scenery but also some of the top MTB destinations in the world. It is located on the western side of the Rocky Mountains. The natural terrain in Park City has created some exciting and interesting trails for adventurous mountain bikers. There are over 400 miles of a large network of trails in Park City. It sits at 2,100m and the trails go a further couple of thousand meters higher. Bikers should be accustomed to high altitude before attempting a serious bike trip in Park City.  If you like well-marked trails and technical singletrack, Park city is the best place for you. But be warned, It has a mild weather and no bodies of water in sight.

Whistler, British Columbia, Canada

Whistler is located along the stunning west coast of British Columbia and offers over 120 miles of trails for bikers to explore. It turns out that Whistler, British Columbia is not only a prime skiing and snowboarding destination, but is also one of the top MTB destinations in the world. The trails cater for beginners through to experts and are accessible by the chairlifts used during the ski season. Whistler is considered a challenge due to its length and the technical aspects that bikers will encounter. Mountain bikers should prepare to sweat and work hard to complete the expert trails because they are not for mountain bikers looking for a quick and easy ride.

The Best Mountain Biking Trails in South Africa

Mountain biking is a fun sport often over rough terrain, using specially designed mountain bikes. It requires balance, endurance, stamina, and strength. Mountain biking is good for the health, helps improve self-esteem and a good way to socialize with other people. One of the countries where mountain biking is common in South Africa. South Africa has a number of exciting and challenging trails that draws bikers not only from the country but also from all over the world. The Absa Cape Epic is an annual mountain bike stage race held in the Western Cape and it attracts elite professional mountain bikers from around the world. Here is the list of the best mountain biking trails in South Africa.

mtb trails sa#1 Tygerberg Trails, Western Cape

Tygerberg Trail is an integrated network of trails spanning over 120km in the Durbanville Mountains. It is managed by the Tygerberg Mountain Bike Club. The Tygerberg trails range from easy to extreme with single-track, jeep track, and farmland terrains. The system of trails includes Majik Forest, Hillcrest, Meerendal, Contermanskloof, and Hoogekraal which operate a day permit system and offer a range of trails ranging from 5km to 18km. Tygerberg network, Bloemendal, the Corridor, Nitida to Hillcrest and Hillcrest are accessible only by members.

#2 Giba Gorge Mountain Biking Park, KwaZulu-Natal

Giba Gorge is one of KwaZulu-Natal’s most popular mountain biking destinations. The trails are divided into various color-coded routes such as blue, green, purple, enduro and downhill. Giba Gorge offers a variety of technical challenges ranging from intermediate to extreme, including rocks, roots, drops and tight switchbacks, up and downhill. The park allows riders to flow ride one trail to another through the link-ups of the trail network. Giba Gorge also features a world-class combo BMX track which offers some of the best permanent dirt jumps in the country.

#3 Tokai, Cape Town

Tokai is Cape’s finest year-round mountain biking trails. The trails are all built according to International Mountain Biking Association standards and are color-coded according to their grading. The trails offer views of Constantia Valley and Table Mountain. The park has many route options from novice to experienced mountain bikers. The trails are rough and tough with lots of massive roots that require every bit of concentration.

#4 Karkloof Mountain Biking Trails, KwaZulu-Natal

Karkloof MTB Trails is a world-class trail network and regarded as one of the best mountain bike trails in South Africa. The trail network is accessible year-round and offers a mixture of terrain which is 7km – 37km various color-coded routes. The trail offers picturesque views and adrenaline-filled features. It has a good mix of natural and handmade trails to keep things interesting.

mountain biking trails

#5 Eselfontein Farm Mountain Bike Track, Western Cape

Eselfontein Farm Mountain Bike Track offers intermediate to advanced 65kms of mountain biking bliss. The track the best mix of high elevations, river crossings, and panoramic views which makes it one of the best single track MTB trails in South Africa. The trail is interesting to ride because of the obstacles with seemingly-endless climbs and radical descents. Riding Eselfontein requires technical ability, high fitness levels with good handling skills because it was made for hard-core mountain bikers.

#6 Goegap Mountain Biking Trails, Northern Cape

Goegap MTB Trails offering riders a 35km network of jeep-tracks, semi-desert, and gravel roads through the Goegap Nature Reserve. The trails make for a fascinating pedal exploration with its rugged and steep desert-like terrain littered with rocks, boulders, and giant aloes. During the months of August to October is the best time to visit Goegap MTB Trails.

#7 Impala Ranch Mountain Biking Trails, Eastern Cape

Impala Ranch is a 1000-hectare pristine farmland which was turned into mountain biking trails by the Marais family. The trails offer intermediate to advance single-track with trademark wooden bridges and breath-taking scenery.

#8 Northern Farm Mountain Biking Trails, Gauteng

Northern Farm MTB Trails is in the 2500-hectare Northern Farm Nature Reserve. It offers trails which range from easy to intermediate making it a friendly destination for beginners. the trails are open only over weekends and public holidays and have four color-coded route options which are designed to suit specific riders.

Cape Town Bicycle Tours

Bicycle Tour Cape Town

Cape Town Bicycle Tours: What Are They And Why Go On One

Cape Town is one of the most fascinating cities in South Africa, as well as the world. Everyone should visit Cape Town at least once in their life, including you. However, make sure you take a Cape Town bicycle tour. Below is more information about what Cape Town bicycle tours are, why you should do one and other useful information.

1. What Are Cape Town Bicycle Tours

You have probably heard of guided tours before, such as taking tours of cities via bus or train and so forth. Well, bicycle tours are tours that are guided, but you travel via bicycle. There are many reasons why you should take a bicycle tour, and some of them will be discussed in the next section.

2. Why Cape Town Bicycle Tours

You should do a bicycle tour of Cape Town because you will get to see many attractions. There are a lot of different cycling paths and many are near major tourist attractions, so you don’t have to worry about missing out on anything. The attractions you’ll get to see depends on the tour company you book with.

Another reason why you should do a Cape Town bicycle tour is because it is great exercise. Regardless of the difficulty of tour you choose to take part in, you will get a good amount of exercise in. A lot of people choose cycling tours because it is a great way for them to have fun and exercise at the same time.

Cape Town Bicycle Tour

You’ll also receive an experienced guide. They can take you to various parts of Cape Town that you might not have known about, and they will make the entire experience that much better. An experienced guide can also tell you about each location that you visit and they can make the tour more fun, and let’s not forget to mention that you will meet other people.

Cycling tours are affordable too. Prices vary from company to company. Generally speaking, bicycle tours are affordable and well worth the money.

3. When Is The Best Time Of Year To Do One- There is no right time of the year because any time of the year is perfect. However, you should definitely visit Cape Town during its summer because other times of the year it can be a bit chilly, but bearable. The choice is ultimately up to you, but you should consider going in the summer, spring or their fall season.

4. How To Book

Booking a Cape Town bicycle tour is easy because you can do it online. There are a number of companies that offer bicycle tours Cape Town and most allow you to book a tour online. Once you have booked a tour, you simply show up in Cape Town and then you can begin your tour.

5. Choosing The Right Company

Different companies have different ways of doing bicycle tours, so choose one that offers you the itinerary you find the most interesting. Also, make sure the company you choose has experienced guides and choose a company that offers bicycle tours for your difficulty preference. For example, if you don’t want to do anything too strenuous, then choose a tour that is easy to complete and one that maintains a slow or steady pace. The more companies you compare, the better your chances are of finding the right company to book a bicycle tour with.

As you can see, it is worth taking a bicycle tour in Cape Town. It is one of the best ways to see what the city has to offer. All you have to do now is find a company and book your tour today.

Top Four Hiking In Hermanus, South Africa

Wild Mountains Hermanus

The Top Four Hiking Trails In Hermanus, South Africa

 

While the majority of people who choose to visit South Africa, particularly Hermanus, already have many activities planned, there is always another activity that can be added to that list – hiking. Not all individuals enjoy hiking. In fact, not all individuals enjoy taking a pleasant stroll through nature. However, for those who do take pleasure in hiking there are several different hiking trails in and around Hermanus to meet your needs. This article will provide information on the top four hiking trails in Hermanus, South Africa.

1. Fernkloof Nature Reserve

Located in the nearby Fernkloof Nature Research, there are several hiking trails available to the eager hiker. Approximately 50km of walks can be found across the mountain ranges that encircle the town of Hermanus providing visitors with the opportunity to view the unique Cape Town plant life. Reports indicate that near 1,500 various types of plant species are located in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve making it one of the most diverse reserves in the area.

The most popular trail within the Fernkloof Nature Reserve is the Tree Trail. This trail focuses specifically on the indigenous trees located in the area and provides a walk from the Botanical Centre to the exclusively-located Assegaibos. Of course, for a fee, it is possible to have a qualified guide arrange a hike where you will be able to view the plants and animals with information being shared on the items.

2. The Hermanus Cliff Path

Unlike the trails in the Fernkloof Nature Reserve, the Hermanus Cliff Path is free of charge for users. It is one of the city’s most beautiful sites and the path travels for approximately 11km along the coastline from New Harbour to Piet-se-Bos beyond Grotto Beach.

Hermanus Cliff

The Cliff Path trail was originally created by the Hermanus Botanical Society; however, it is currently cared for by local residents who service the path using private donations. It should be noted that while the cliff itself is a popular feature, the whale spotting opportunities increase the uniqueness of this trail.

3. The Salmonsdam Mountain Trail

The Salmonsdam Mountain Trail is located in the Salmonsdam Nature Reserve and is not in the city of Hermanus but is located near the whale watching capital. It is a scenic, tranquil and highly inviting area drawing in tourists in all seasons.

Despite being lead from across the mountain ranges, the Salmonsdam Mountain Trail is a circular trail for hikers. It is a simple trail to follow with few inclines measuring only 4km in distance. The trail begins at the base of the Perdeberg Mountain allowing hikers to enjoy both mountains and the coast within the nature reserve. Unfortunately, price to book a trail is only available on request.

4. The Salmonsdam Ravine Trail

As with the Salmonsdam Mountain Trail, the Salmonsdam Ravine Trail is located in the Salmonsdam Nature Reserve near the city of Hermanus. It is a 3km trail heading through the Keeronskloof Ravine where the individual will hit a point and then return to the beginning of the walk. This is a fascinating trail because it allows one to encounter unique rock formations along the path with caves as an optional extra. It should be noted that children can complete this trail, but only under supervision.

TOP 3 HIKING COUNTRIES IN THE WORLD

best hiking countries

1.USA

Beyond the big cities, the eastern USA is criss-crossed with glorious hiking trails that take you from lush forests to mountain meadows, or from rugged peaks to tumbling

Hiking in USA

waterfalls. Whether you’re after a day hike or a long-distance trek, Donna Dailey has the best routes for discovering America’s great outdoors.

2.Chile

Clear your thoughts, test your stamina and get right back to nature. Hiking or trekking is easily the best way to see Chile and enjoy its magnificent landscapes from within. Put on your most comfortable walking shoes and head off on a real adventure. One superb trek begins at the Lejía Lagoon, high above San Pedro de Atacama. At more than 4,000 meters above sea level, the impressive views include mighty volcanoes, rugged hills and the extraordinary Miscanti Lagoon.

3.Norway

Norway’s iconic fjords are renowned for their myths and legends, and when you arrive, you can see why. This is troll country after all, and there are plenty of waterfalls, caves and coves for magical beings to hide from the real world, making mischief.

Hiking in Norway

Trolltunga, a dramatic cliff jutting out from a 1,100 metre mountain deep in the heartland of the fjords, west of Bergen, is no different. In English, the name means “troll tongue”: legend has it that a cocky troll didn’t believe he would turn to stone when the sun came out and stuck his tongue out, making fun of the rising sun, when he was suddenly turned to stone.

3 Biggest Mountains in the world

 Mount Everest

As known as in Nepal Sogarmatha and in China as Chomolugma, it peaks at 8,848 meters, (29,039ft). The international borders between China and  Nepal run across the precise summit point.Around Mount Everest, there are three peaks above 8,000 meters (26,000 feet): Lhotse, Makalu, and Cho Oyu; and 14 peaks above 7,000 meters; which form the amazing vista of Mount Everest Natural Scenery Area.Increasing numbers of mountaineers make expeditions to conquer the world’s highest peak, while many tourists go to the foot of the peak to admire its beauty and magnificence.

Mount Everest

Weather conditions:

The lowest temperature on the peak is 30–40 °C (22–40 °F) below zero, but wind chill can make it feel colder! And oxygen on the peak is only 25% that of sea level. Strong winds blow the snow into drifts making the mountain still more deadly.

The area over 7,500 meters is coldest in February, averaging -27 °C (-17 °F), and warmest in August, averaging -20 °C (-4 °F).

The Tibet base camp is not as cold or bleak, being more than 3,000 meters lower, below the snow line, with daytime temperatures above freezing from spring to fall.

K2

also known as Mount Godwin-Austen or Chhogori is the second highest mountain in the world after Mount Everest at 8,611 metres (28,251 ft) above sea level.. To the mountaneer, K2 can be regarded as the mountain of mountains, its allure arises from the combinations,its isolation, extreme of weather,  great altitude and technical demands. K2 is called “Choogri” in local language. “Choogri” is a Balti word, which means “King of Mountains”. Mostly K2 is scaled from the trust worthy path that comes from Skardu. It is conventional path to scale the mountain and is used by most of mountaineers. The other path that comes from Chinese side is extremely difficult and hazardous.

Mount Godwin

The mountain was named “Savage Mountain” due to extreme difficulty of ascent and second highest fatality rate among “Eight Thousanders”.

3. Kangachenjunga

also spelled as Kangchenyunga or Kinchinjunga, Nepali Kumbhkaran Lungu, 3rd worlds highest mountain, with an elevation of 28,169 feet. It is situated in eastern Himalayas on the boarder between eastern Nepal, Sikkim state, northern eastern India. Kanchenjunga in the Himalayan Range.

Kangachenjunga

Kanchenjunga translated means “The Five Treasures of Snows”, as it contains five peaks, four of them over 8,450 metres. The treasures represent the five repositories of God, which are gold, silver, gems, grain, and holy books. Kanchenjunga is called Sewalungma in the local Limbu language, translates as ‘Mountain that we offer Greetings to’. Kanchenjunga or Sewalungma is considered sacred in the Kirant religion.Three of the five peaks (main, central, and south) are on the border of North Sikkim district of Sikkim, India and Taplejung District of Nepal, while the other two are completely in Taplejung District. Nepal is home to the Kanchenjunga Conservation Area Project run by the World Wildlife Fund in association with Government of Nepal.  The sanctuary is home to the Red Panda and other montage animals, birds and plants. India’s side of Kanchenjunga also has a protected park area called the Khangchendzonga National Park.Until 1852, Kanchenjunga was assumed to be the highest mountain in the world, but calculations made by the British Great Trigonometric Survey in 1849 came to the conclusion that Mount Everest (known as Peak XV at the time) was the highest and Kanchenjunga the third-highest. Kanchenjunga was first climbed on May 25, 1955 by Joe Brown and George Band, who were part of a British expedition. The British expedition honoured the beliefs of the Sikkimese, who hold the summit sacred, by stopping a few feet short of the actual summit. Most successful summit parties since then have followed this tradition.The name Kangchenjunga is derived from Sanskrit kanchana ganga:  kanchana means gold and ganga is the river which flows in the region. The river shines like gold and hence the name Kanchana Ganga was given to this mountain.