gondwana tourist attraction

15 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions on the Garden Route

Written by Carri Wilbanks and Becca Blond Updated May 11, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Authors Becca Blond and Carri Wilbanks first fell in love with South Africa when visiting during college. They have returned more than a dozen times and driven the Garden Route many times. Becca has also written guidebooks on South Africa.

One of the top scenic drives in South Africa, the Garden Route offers spectacular scenery, fascinating wildlife, and adrenaline-fueled adventure. The route stretches for more than 200 kilometers from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to the Storms River on the Eastern Cape , and snakes between soaring mountains and the beaches of the Indian Ocean.

Along the way, travelers can sail on lagoons, hike through lush coastal forests sliced by rivers, explore caves and panoramic mountain passes, and bungee jump into a plunging gorge. Animal lovers will find plenty of attractions, from elephant experiences, cheetah encounters, and bird sanctuaries to ostrich farms and whale-watching trips.

The most popular towns along the route are Knysna and Plettenberg Bay , but Mossel Bay is home to a fascinating museum complex, and George is the largest town and transport hub.

A minimum of four days is recommended to tour this stretch, however with all the diverse attractions, travelers could easily explore this region for weeks. During the busy summer months (December through February), travelers should book accommodation well in advance.

Discover the best places to visit and the top things to do along this famous drive with our list of the top attractions on the Garden Route.

1. Robberg Nature Reserve, Plettenberg Bay

2. storms river suspension bridge, 3. birds of eden, monkeyland, and jukani wildlife sanctuary, 4. knysna heads & the knysna forest, 5. knysna elephant park, 6. featherbed nature reserve, knysna, 7. swartberg pass, 8. cango caves, 9. oudtshoorn ostrich farms, 10. wilderness national park, 11. bloukrans bungy, 12. bartolomeu dias museum complex, mossel bay, 13. canyoning the crags, 14. gondwana private game reserve, 15. "plett bay" beach day, map of tourist attractions on the garden route, best time to visit the garden route.

Highlights: A hiking paradise with trails for all levels where whales and dolphins are often spotted

About eight kilometers from the popular coastal town of Plettenberg Bay , the magnificent Robberg Nature Reserve is a national monument and a hiker's paradise with a variety of trails and other things to do. It sits on a four-kilometer-long peninsula, at the foot of the Mountain of the Seal, where some of the rocks date back 120 million years, and caves show evidence of prehistoric man.

The reserve is an important breeding area for many water birds, and hikers may also spot whales and dolphins (in season), as well as seals basking on the beach and bobbing in the crashing surf. Their awe-inspiring predator, the great white shark, also lurks in the waters here.

Before embarking on a hike, visitors should stop by the visitor center at the parking lot to learn about the local flora and fauna. From here, hiking trails lead through the peninsula and range in length and difficulty, from a gentle two-kilometer stroll to the challenging 10-kilometer hike around the rocky and rugged point past pristine beaches and along precipitous sea cliffs.

Hikers should wear sensible shoes and take binoculars, sun protection, plenty of water, and a picnic to enjoy while gazing at the spectacular coastal scenery. A hut accommodates hikers who wish to stay overnight.

Highlight: Less than seven meters above the water, standing on this 77-meter-long suspension bridge is an exhilarating feeling

A highlight of the magnificent coastal reserve Tsitsikamma National Park (now part of Garden Route National Park) is the Storms River Suspension Bridge. Stretching for 77 meters, the bridge spans the swirling waters of the river mouth as they merge with the Indian Ocean. Standing on the bridge, less than seven meters above the water, visitors can feel the exhilarating force of nature all around them.

The hike to the bridge is also beautiful. The trail winds through forests, past waterfalls and stunning sea views. Keep a lookout for dassies (rock hyrax) that live among the rocks near the bridge. For those who want a longer walk, the 42-kilometer Otter Trail runs between Storms River Mouth and Nature's Valley with overnight accommodation in huts along the route.

This section of Garden Route National Park is also home to many species of birds, as well as monkeys, smaller antelopes, and diverse marine life. Dolphins and whales are frequently sighted off the coast. Not far from Storms River is the Big Tree , a gigantic yellowwood tree said to be 800 years old, making it South Africa's oldest as well as its largest tree.

Highlight: Seeing the rescued big cats, including white lions, at Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary

About 16 kilometers from the beautiful beaches of Plettenberg Bay, animal lovers can enjoy educational wildlife experiences at three affiliated sanctuaries owned by the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance.

At Birds of Eden , the world's largest dome shelters two hectares of indigenous forest, where birds representing more than 280 species from around the world, fly free. Visitors can view the birds from two kilometers of boardwalks, including a canopy walk.

Many of the birds — especially the parrots — were previously pets and have no fear of humans, allowing close-up views and fantastic photo opportunities. Favorite sightings include Knysna loeries, channel billed toucans, blue cranes, crowned cranes, and the stunning blue and gold macaw.

Next door, Monkeyland is a sanctuary that has rescued more than 11 species of previously captive primates and rehabilitated them in a natural forested habitat. Monkey safaris take visitors to see lemurs, languors, squirrel monkeys, and a host of other charismatic primates along a 128-meter canopy walk and viewing deck. Multilingual guided tours are also available.

Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary rescues big cats and rehabilitates them in as natural surroundings as possible. Here, visitors enjoy a guided introduction to these graceful creatures with the chance to learn about their history and unique personalities. Highlights include the white lions, cheetahs, tigers, and the beautiful black leopards.

Highlight: Hiking the many scenic trails through the lush forests surrounding Knysna

Sitting on a lagoon between lush forests and the sparkling sea, Knysna is one of the most popular towns on the Garden Route. On the seaward side, two giant crags, called the Knysna Heads, flank the mouth of the lagoon.

Visitors can explore the area from the water on a cruise or along walkways with plenty of panoramic viewpoints overlooking the treacherous sea below and the jagged multi-hued rocks along the shore. Cafés offer scenic patios to soak up the views, and seafood lovers should sample some delectable local specialties while visiting Knysna.

In the lush forests surrounding Knysna, scenic trails lace along rivers and waterfalls, where large herds of elephants once roamed. Among the flora are giant yellowwood trees, some of them between 400 and 800 years old, as well as stinkwoods and the pretty pink-flowered Cape chestnut. Hikers may also spot antelope and a diversity of birds, including the Knysna loerie.

Favorite hikes include the Circles in the Forest ; the 3.4-kilometer Jubilee Creek trail; and the 5.6-kilometer Millwood Mine Walk , which leads to the remains of a gold diggers' settlement.

Highlights: Walk and feed elephants under careful supervision at this elephant sanctuary for animals that cannot survive in the wild

At Knysna Elephant Park , animal lovers can enjoy a rare wildlife experience with a herd of rehabilitated elephants. Under the careful supervision of experienced handlers, visitors can walk with the elephants, feed them, and interact with these majestic pachyderms.

Operating for more than 20 years, the park was the first sanctuary in South Africa to accommodate orphaned African elephants. Many of the residents were rescued from culls or circuses and rehabilitated by the staff.

The experience begins with an educational presentation and safety briefing before visitors interact with the elephants at the level they choose, as long as the elephants are happy to cooperate. This is a must-do for wildlife lovers.

Address: Harkerville, Plettenberg Bay, 6600

Highlight: The 4WD trip that stops at panoramic lookout points around this private nature reserve

A daily ferry service from Knysna takes visitors for a cruise on the Knysna lagoon to the delightful Featherbed Nature Reserve on the Western Head. A visit to this pretty private sanctuary includes a 4WD trip with stops at panoramic lookout points and a guided 2.2-kilometer hike with fascinating information about the local flora, fauna, and history.

After exploring the reserve, visitors enjoy a delicious buffet lunch at the alfresco dining area under a canopy of trees. The company also offers cruises to Knysna Heads aboard their double-decker floating restaurant, as well as sailing trips and sundowner cruises on Knysna Lagoon.

Highlight: Driving this mountain pass with its stunning rock formations and panoramic views

The Swartberg Pass is one of the most scenic mountain passes in the world, with stunning rock formations and sweeping views. Beyond the Cango Caves, the road climbs over the Swartberg range, which forms the boundary between the Little and the Great Karoo and extends for 200 kilometers rising up to 2,326 meters in some areas.

The 27-kilometer pass snakes from Oudtshoorn in the south to Prince Albert in the north. Built using convict labor in 1881-88 by Thomas Bain, a South African road engineer, the road is mainly gravel, but in dry weather, it's negotiable by 2WD.

Magnificent views greet travelers around every bend, and the vegetation is equally beautiful, with a profusion of proteas. Lookout points along the way offer striking panoramas. Be sure to bring a camera and check road conditions before heading out.

Highlight: Seeing the Bushmen rock drawings on a tour through these dripstone caverns

About 29 kilometers north of Oudtshoorn , at the foot of the Great Swartberg, are the impressive Cango Caves . In earlier centuries, these dripstone caverns were occupied by Bushmen, who left rock drawings, little of which can now be distinguished.

Visitors can choose between a Heritage Tour or Adventure Tour. Both take visitors into a series of huge chambers with impressive stalactites and stalagmites enhanced by spectacular lighting effects.

The Van Zyl Hall is named after the man who first ventured into these dark caverns in 1780. This enormous 70-meter-long, 17-meter-high chamber is brilliantly floodlit and accommodates 1,000 people. It has excellent acoustics, and concerts are occasionally staged here.

The Adventure Tour starts at the same point but continues deeper into the cave system and requires some wriggling and climbing. Advance bookings for the tours are essential.

Highlight: Learning all about ostriches at Highgate Ostrich Show Farm

In a fertile valley, Oudtshoorn is the largest town on the Little Karoo and the world's principal ostrich-breeding center. Many visitors following the Garden Route make a side trip here (about 70 kilometers) to admire the beautiful scenery of the surrounding Swartberg and Outeniqua Mountains and to visit one of the ostrich farms.

Safari Ostrich Show Farm , Cango Ostrich Show Farm , and Highgate Ostrich Show Farm offer educational and fun tours where visitors can learn about ostrich breeding and stand on ostrich eggs to demonstrate their strength.

Another popular tourist attraction in Oudtshoorn is Cango Wildlife Ranch where visitors can cage-dive with crocodiles and interact with lemurs and cheetahs. Also at the ranch are a snake park; Australian rainforest exhibit, with wallabies and lorikeets; and a host of other fascinating wildlife including white lions, leopards, tigers, flying foxes, and an array of colorful birds.

Highlights: Spending the night in one of the park's stilted log cabins; canoeing, fishing, or windsurfing in the many lakes

Now part of the Garden Route National Park , Wilderness National Park lies between the Garden Route towns of George and Knysna and extends from the mouth of the Trouw River in the west to Sedgefield in the east.

To the north, this beautiful park is bounded by the Outeniqua Mountains, and to the south, it descends to the Indian Ocean. Along this stretch of coast, lakes, wetlands, and estuaries connect with each other, and the mingling of salt and fresh water produces amazingly diverse flora and fauna.

The national park is a paradise for water birds, including the grey heron and five species of kingfishers. Campsites and stilted log cabins are available for visitors, as well as facilities for water sports on the lakes, which include canoeing, fishing, windsurfing, and sailing. Segway tours are another fun way to explore the park.

Goukamma Nature Reserve, a few kilometers east of Wilderness National Park, straddles the estuary of the Goukamma River with rolling dunes, distinctive bird life, and well-defined walking trails. The Kingfisher Trail crosses an intertidal zone to a waterfall and is a popular day walk in the park. The region is particularly beautiful in spring when wildflowers speckle the landscapes.

Highlight: Taking the plunge off the world's highest bungee bridge

About 40 kilometers outside of Plettenberg Bay on the way to Storms River, Bloukrans Bungy is the world's highest commercial bungee jump and operates from the world's highest bungee bridge.

Even crossing the bridge can bring butterflies to the stomach, yet many brave souls take the leap and dive 216 meters into the dizzyingly deep gorge below. Those who want to capture a bird's-eye view can bring their own GoPro, but videos and photos of the jump are available for purchase after the plunge.

Address: Bloukrans River Bridge, Tsitsikamma, Plettenberg Bay, 6600

Highlight: Seeing a collection of shells from around the world at the on-site Shell Museum

Though Mossel Bay's scenery is now marred by industrial development and oil rigs, this seaside town is home to the excellent Bartolomeu Dias Museum complex . It was built to celebrate the 500th anniversary of Bartolomeu Dias' landing in Mossel Bay in 1488.

At the museum complex, the reception and information center is housed in the Granary where visitors can view specimens of local plants and flowers. From here, an ethnobotanical garden leads to the other museums.

Facing the Granary is the Maritime Museum in a former grain mill and sawmill. The star exhibit here is a replica of the caravel in which Diaz rounded the Cape.

The Shell Museum displays a collection of shells from all over the world, as well as aquarium tanks with living shellfish in their natural environment. Outside Mossel Bay's Shell Museum is the Post Office Tree , a large milkwood tree beside a spring from which ships replenished their water supplies. Mariners sailing east used it as a mailbox by depositing letters here, which were collected and delivered by ships on the homeward voyage.

Also in the complex, the Munrohoek Cottages were built around 1830 and restored in the mid 1980s. They are among the oldest buildings in Mossel Bay.

Address: 1 Market St, Mossel Bay, 6500

Highlight : Taking a four-hour canyoning trip with a waterfall rappel and a zipline adventure

The Crags are located just outside of Plettenberg Bay and are another place to get a good adrenaline fix on the Garden Route. From cliff jumping to ziplining, hiking, and swimming, this natural rock and water playground makes for an awesome few hours of outdoor adventuring.

For the ultimate adventure, check out this 4-Hour Canyoning Trip in The Crags . On it, you will rappel down a waterfall, zipline over another, and hike along an ancient river canyon trail. There are also opportunities for swimming in freshwater streams and pools and cliff jumping.

If four hours sounds like too long, try the abridged 2-Hour Canyoning Trip . It offers the same adrenaline rushes in a shorter time frame.

Highlight: Spotting all the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) on a safari

The only game reserve on the Garden Route is Gondwana Private Game Reserve . It offers a great opportunity to go on safari for those with limited time in South Africa–for instance, if you're just doing Cape Town and the Garden Route this is going to be your closest safari option.

The 11,000-hectare private game reserve is just 48 kilometers from Mossel Bay and can be visited on a day trip or overnight stay. There are guided safari drives through the reserve, which is home to the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo), as well as a plethora of other animals from zebras and giraffes to cheetahs.

Accommodation options at Gondwana range from a luxury lodge to bush villas and a tented eco-camp, which features a three- or five-night conservation-focused experience–you'll be helping with the day to day operations of the park.

Highlight: Spending the day splashing in the waves and sunbathing on Central Beach

A Plettenberg Bay beach day is another Garden Route must-do. Plett is home to six "Blue Flag" beaches covering about 15 kilometers of coastline. Central Beach is the most popular stretch of sand in town. Located in front of the landmark Beacon Island Resort , it is a pretty stretch of golden sand, and in summer, it has lifeguards.

It can get very crowded on weekends in season, as well as during the December holidays, and has a fun buzz about it. If you want to explore the ocean and not just the sand, dive charters, ocean kayaking, and other tours also launch from Central Beach.

Plett beaches are also known for their surfing. Waves can be as high as 12 feet at times, and this is considered one of South Africa's top places to visit for surfing. Robberg Beach is one excellent surf and bodyboarding spot about two kilometers from downtown. It has public toilets, wheelchair access, and a parking area. It is also great for long walks along the sand.

Lookout Beach is another top surf spot around town, with lifeguards in season. If you are traveling with kids, it's also a good family beach. Also check out Singing Kettle Beach . You'll want to take a walk down the sand to Cathedral Rock (also known as Arch Rock), which is a cool natural arch rock formation that supposedly resembles a cathedral portal.

The best time to visit the Garden Route is March. At the tail end of summer, temperatures will be pleasant and the crowds will be far less than during the busy summer and holiday months of December, January, and February. Rates at hotels are usually lower in March.

There is not really a bad time to drive the Garden Route, however, as it remains temperate year-round. If you are looking for a summer beach road trip, January is the best month to visit. Temperatures will be higher, the ocean will be slightly warmer, and the energy is more vibrant.

February sees fewer crowds and the highest temperatures of the year. If you want to go whale watching on your vacation, the best time to visit the Garden Route is June. June is also winter, so expect cooler temperatures, although highs are still in the 70s.

The Garden Route averages between 5 and 7 days of rain each month. August, October, and November are the rainiest months.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Western Cape: While the Garden Route definitely makes up a major highlight of the Western Cape there is so much more to see in this beautiful province, should you have time to explore more. Delve deeper with our Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Western Cape for more things to do in this province, which is also home to Cape Town .

Eastern Cape : The Garden Route is also an easy jumping-off point for exploring the Eastern Cape. This adjacent province is home to areas of stunning natural beauty, especially along The Wild Coast . It also features great surfing, with world-famous waves like Supertubes in Jeffreys Bay . Learn more with our Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in the Eastern Cape page. It will give you the scoop on everything this beautiful province has to offer.

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Gondwana Game Reserve

Sub regions inside, broader region.

Gondwana is a luxury Western Cape game reserve located in the picturesque Garden Route, which offers a diverse selection of Luxury Safari Lodge Accommodation from romantic Private Suites to Private Villa Rentals – perfect for families.

Less than a four-hour drive from Cape Town International Airport, along South Africa’s scenic Garden Route, the award winning Gondwana Game Reserve provides the perfect luxury safari getaway for Cape Town visitors. Located on South Africa’s popular Garden Route, the 11 000-hectare (26 000 acre), private, malaria-free game reserve offers a distinctive and authentic free roaming, Big 5 safari.  World-class tourist facilities and attractions on Gondwana’s doorstep include championship golf courses like Pinnacle Point and Fancourt, great swimming and surfing beaches and attractive coastal towns.

‍ For couples looking for a romantic spoil, deluxe accommodation is offered in Kwena Lodge Suites, a modern and luxurious twist on the traditional Khoi-San dwelling. 14 open plan suites are nestled into the spectacular surrounds with 180-degree mountain views overlooking a waterhole and include wood burning fireplaces and luxurious bathrooms.

Family or group accommodation is ideally provided in spacious luxury Kwena Lodge Villas and Lehele Lodge Villas which are privately situated with awe-inspiring views of the surrounding Outeniqua Mountains from your expansive deck.  The villas include 3 or 4 en-suite bedrooms with an open plan lounge, dining and kitchen area.

Other accommodation offerings on Gondwana include the Eco Camp which offers guests an exclusive behind the scenes hands on safari experience.

The Pioneer Trail is the ultimate slack packing adventure offering a 3-night walking safari through the Big 5 game reserve staying in a new remote tented camp each night.

Ulubisi House is Gondwana’s most exclusive and luxurious offering as a privately staffed exclusive-use lodge sleeping 6-8 guests.

Gondwana Game Reserve offers guests attentive service, superb cuisine, inspiring interiors, expert game rangers, and an array of activities including game drives, mountain biking, guided bush walks, Africology spa treatments, conservation activities and the popular Junior Ranger Program for children.

The Junior Ranger Program is inclusive for all families on a full board or half board package and includes educational game drives, interactive activities, Junior Ranger packs and a completion certificate. The younger children’s activities are based mainly around the lodge to stay closer to parents. Children will receive a fun Junior Ranger’s backpack and cool safari activity booklet to fill in throughout their stay. During game drives and other activities with their dedicated ranger, kids will be taught how to identify mammals, birds, Fynbos species, and even identify the stars!

Gondwana Game Reserve is a year round safari destination

Every Season brings new wonders - No matter the weather a Cape Safari will always be a magical experience!

Summer (Nov – Feb)

• Fynbos Highlights - Yellow pincushion comes out just in time for Christmas • Birding Highlights - South Africa’s national bird the Blue Crane, finds refuge on Gondwana where they breed and raise their chicks on the plains. • Wildlife Highlights - Antelope species continue to produce young. Black wildebeest calves and impala lambs are abundant. • Average temp: 20.3C - Lows 10C – Highs 33.7C

Autumn (March – May)

• Fynbos Highlights - Fynbos in full bloom look out for Ericas, & Bearded Proteas • Birding Highlights - We welcome back nomadic nectar feeding bird species such as the Cape Sugarbird and Orange breasted Sunbird. Species such as the male Malachite Sunbird moults into its metallic green plumage. • Wildlife Highlights - Many antelope species such as impala go into rutting season where they challenge each other in noisy, boisterous disputes in a struggle to gain and hold a territory. • Average temp: 17.9C - Lows 7C – Highs 31.9C

Winter (June – Aug)

• Fynbos Highlights - Protea forests are in full bloom. Purple Ericas in bloom in our wetland areas, “heather on the hills” • Birding Highlights - Nectivores birds are abundant (sunbirds & sugarbirds) – The endemic Orange Breasted Sunbird is nesting at this time of year on the reserve • Wildlife Highlights - If Gondwana’s lion pride has cubs they usually come out of hiding at this time of the year and we get our first sightings of them • Average temp: 13.9C - Lows 7.5C – Highs 27.7C

Spring (Sept – Oct)

• Fynbos Highlights - Sweet thorn acacia ( Acacia karoo ) will start to flower, attracting bees to pollinate the bright yellow flowers. September bush ( Polygala myrtifolia ) flowering with bright pink flowers (leaves are made into a poultice for treating gout). Various gladiolus species and other bulbs are in flower. • Birding Highlights - Burchells coucal : also called the rain bird has started calling. The Zulu culture believe that one should plant your crops when this bird calls as rain is expected. Migratory birds: We say good bye to many of the sunbirds as they migrate to higher altitudes, but we welcome back the summer residents, Red-chested Cuckoo, Didericks Cuckoo, White-rumped Swifts, European Swallows • Wildlife Highlights- Reptiles have become active: many snakes (puffadders, boom slang, night adder, karoo padloper) Eland, red hartebeest, gemsbok are calving with many babies seen on the reserve. • Average temp: 15.9C - Lows 7.9C – Highs 31.9C

Gondwana is a luxury Western Cape game reserve located in the picturesque Garden Route less than a four-hour drive from Cape Town International Airport.

Apr 12, 2024

Anja is very attentive and patient.

Apr 11, 2024

Shann is a great professional

Shann immediately demonstrated pleasant professionalism, competence, experience and patience. She advised and accompanied me in organizing the trip. She listened to all my needs and the suggestions were very fruitful for me. he was very kind and always available even during the holidays. thank you Shann

It was easy

It was easy, it all worked as planned, our expectations were exceeded. Anja was easy to communicate with through Whatsapp and always responded promptly to any questions.

Apr 10, 2024

She made it so easy to book

She made it so easy to book - Leigh-Ann was great to deal with . She made it so easy and worked with the dates I gave her . I appreciate it so much and when I book my next safari - I hope to have the same experience - which was awesome !!!!

Botswana Experience

Anja, our agent, was very kind and helpful all the time to organize the perfect trip. She did it quickly and efficiently. The amount of days we spent in every place was perfect to really enjoy the hotels and the different activities they proposed (in general the hotels are very nice but we don’t have the time to really experience the place but here we did). Also the selections of hotels was very very nice. Nice infrastructure, excellent service (very professional) and outstanding places to visit (all the parks were great). We had a wonderful experience with the company in Botswana.

Thank you Heleen for great service and…

Thank you Heleen for great service and always very helpful with all the changes we made. highly recommended

Keith was extremely helpful during the…

Keith was extremely helpful during the booking process. He is the only reason I continued the booking process with your firm. There were issues with your website among other things that had me feeling uncomfortable. Keith has great energy which eased my concerns. I feel the package Keith put together is great and I expect to have a wonderful trip.

Apr 9, 2024

Creating a Trip of a Lifetime

Shann Shaw was extremely patient and very helpful with getting a trip of a lifetime put together. Thank you so much for making it possible!

Keith answered all of my questions…

Keith answered all of my questions without any issues. He addressed everything that I asked and was quite prompt in his responses.

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GONDWANA, THE BEST WESTERN CAPE GAME RESERVE

When we started planning our South Africa trip, there were 3 things we absolutely wanted to see and do: visit Cape Town, explore the wine region, and go on a safari. All of this had to fit within 8 days, so I quickly understood that visiting Kruger National Park wasn’t gonna be an option as it would have required us to take an internal flight. Luckily there are some amazing game reserves in the Western Cape region, that are easily accessible from Cape Town. If you’re dreaming of an unforgettable safari adventure, look no further than Gondwana Private Game Reserve , a stunning park nestled in the heart of the Western Cape. This exclusive game reserve offers an exceptional wildlife experience only a 4h drive from Cape Town, making it the ideal destination for a quick escape into the wild beauty of South Africa.

Gondwana Private Game Reserve: A Natural Wonder

Gondwana Private Game Reserve is one of the most beautiful parks near Cape Town . The park covers 11,000 hectares with a great variety of landscapes and is home to the legendary Big Five ( lions, leopards, elephants, buffaloes, and rhinoceros).

All the animals here are roaming the park freely, so each game drive is a different experience, and you can never predict what you will see! And that is the real beauty of a safari, isn’t it?

What sets Gondwana apart is its commitment to conservation and responsible tourism. The reserve actively participates in various conservation initiatives, ensuring the preservation of indigenous flora and fauna. For example, they are very strict about the kind and number of animals introduced into the park, to ensure the wellbeing of all the animals.

In Gondwana Private Game Reserve nature does all the work. There is minimal human intervention (no feeding or healing of the animals) and only the endangered White Rhinos are tracked to ensure their safety (sadly poaching is still very much a lucrative activity in South Africa).

Luxury in the wild: Gondwana accommodations

Gondwana Private Game Reserve offers different kinds of accommodations, each providing a unique way to experience the wilderness, but always with full comfort! From luxurious private villas to well-appointed lodges, there’s something for every type of traveler.

During our time in Gondwana, we stayed at the Kwena Lodge . The first thing you will notice arriving at the Kwena Lodge is the spectacular 180-degree views of the surrounding mountainous landscape and the occasional passing wildlife!! This is a truly breathtaking view, that can be admired from pretty much everywhere in the lodge, from the restaurant to the room.

There are 14 spacious stand-alone rooms in the lodge, with thatch roofs, beautiful bathrooms, and large terraces offering the same 180-degree spectacular view. If you are coming in a group or as a family there are also 7 villas of 3 to 4 bedrooms, located only 5 min drive from the lodge.

The Kwena Lodge facilities include a stunning infinity pool with a sun lounging deck, an open-air bar area, and a cozy dining room set around two fireplaces, an amazing setting to sip delicious South African wines!

Gondwana Private Game Reserve offers other types of accommodations in the park, including a tented camp, and an ultra-luxury private lodge. You can find more details on their website , or directly on Booking.com .

A typical day in Gondwana Private Game Reserve

A typical day at Gondwana Private Game Reserve is the perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and immersion in nature. The game reserve operates on a well-organized schedule to make the most of your safari experience.

Morning Game Drive: We rose bright and early for the sunrise game drive. After gathering with the other guests and grabbing a coffee and a few breakfast pastries, it is time to embark on the sunrise game drive! The drives are conducted by very passionate guides who stay with you throughout your stay so they know exactly what you have already seen, and what you are most excited about so they can try to tailor the drives accordingly. Once the sun was up, we stopped for delicious rusks and coffee with a dash of Amarulla (a typical liquor from South Africa). After a few hours and the amazing sight of a full family of lions, we returned to the lodge for a delicious breakfast.

Free time: Most of the rest of the day is dedicated to chilling, swimming in the stunning infinity pool, or having a relaxing treatment in the bush spa! Lunch is served in the main restaurant, indoor,s or on the beautiful terrasse with an infinite view of the reserve. Like everywhere we ate in the Western Cape, the food in Gondwana Private Game Reserve was really delicious!!

Afternoon Game Drive : Around 4 pm, it is time to gather again in the main lodge, for a quick high tea. Tea, coffee, and a variety of cookies and mini sandwiches are the perfect send-off for a beautiful sunset game drive. Once again, our guide drove us to different parts of the park, looking for some of the most iconic wildlife! As the sun sets, we paused for sundowners at a scenic spot. Sipping on a glass of wine, while the sky turned to fire was really a magical moment! After the drive, it is time to freshen up before going for a delicious dinner by the fireplace.

If you feel like we ate all day it is probably because we did! Staying at Gondwana is on Half Board or Full Board basis. Half Board includes 1 game drive/day (you can choose morning or evening) while full board includes both sunrise and sunset game drives. Alcoholic drinks during the drive are included, but not the ones you consume at the restaurant. I definitely recommend the Full Board … you are in the middle of an 11,000-hectare park, so there is nowhere else to go for lunch anyway!

What is the ideal stay in Gondwana?

We stayed in Gondwana Private Game Reserve for 2 nights, and did 3 Game Drives (we skipped the last sunrise one in order to sleep in!) and I thought that was the perfect amount of time to fully immerse in the safari experience. Even though the park is massive, there is only so far you can drive on each outing so you are likely to see the same animals, and some of the same areas several times. Most of the animals are easy to spot, so over the course of 4 game drives, you will definitely see elephants, wildebeest, giraffes, rhinos, hippos, zebras etc. More difficult to spot are the lions (we were very lucky to see the whole family of 5 during our morning game drive) and the leopard (that we didn’t see), so having at least 4 game drives increases your chances of seeing them.

I think a two-night stay at the game reserve strikes a great balance between adventure and relaxation and is perfect if you are driving from Cape Town or other parts of the Western Cape. I think 1night only would be quite tiring!.

To make the most of your stay at Gondwana Private Game Reserve, arrive early afternoon on your check-in day (so as not to miss the sunset drive) and leave around lunchtime to enjoy the last morning game drive.

What to bring on a safari

There are only a few essentials to bring with you to this beautiful Game reserve:

• Neutral color clothing: You are in the middle of nature and the idea is to blend it! So pack some light beige, white, and green clothes. Avoid dark colors that attract mosquitos.
• Layers : When the sun is high, the weather is warm and lovely but it can be freezing early morning and late evening, especially in fully open cars, so pack a few extra layers. Long sleeves shirts, sweaters, and jackets are your friends! Luckily there are also some very warm ponchos and blankets in each car.
• Sun protection: Sunblock, sunglasses, and a hat are always a good idea to bring on a safari as the day can be really hot.
• Mosquito repellent : If like me you are prone to being eaten alive by mosquitos, don’t forget to pack repellent.
• Camera: Because it is a private reserve, the drivers at Gondwana can actually drive quite close to some of the animals so a regular camera can work in most situations but still, if you like photography, I recommend packing a good zoom, ideally around 200mm.
• Binocular : Similarly, binoculars are not absolutely necessary but can be useful, especially if you like birds or try to find elusive leopards.

You can check my blog post What to wear on an African safari for more details.

Best Time to Visit Gondwana Private Game Reserve

Gondwana Private Game Reserve is a year-long safari destination, each season bringing different fauna and flora highlights. If you combine a stay at this game reserve with a Cape Town trip, I suggest you visit between September and April, November to February being the warmest months, with average temperatures in the low 20 degrees. For more details on what to expect for each season, check out their website

Getting to Gondwana Private Game Reserve from Cape Town

Gondwana Private Game Reserve is located in the heart of the Western Cape, approximately four hours by car from Cape Town . The drive on the N2 Highway towards Mossel Bay is absolutely stunning and a great part of the journey.

Once you arrive at the main entrance of the Gondwana Private Game Reserve, report to the security team who will indicate to you which way to go to reach your lodge. You should be aware that before you even get to the main entrance the road turns into a rocky dirt road. If you have a regular car, you will have to drive really slowly to not damage your car, so just account for the extra time. If you have the option to rent a 4×4 , I highly recommend it, The drive inside the reserve will be smoother and more pleasant.

Gondwana Private Game Reserve is a remarkable destination that offers a unique blend of wildlife, luxurious accommodations, and breathtaking scenery. Just a stone’s throw away from Cape Town, it is the perfect game reserve to embark on an amazing safari adventure in the Western Cape. Even though we have done safaris before, (including a stunning one in Tanzania ), we left Gondwana with amazing memories of the African wilderness.

So, pack your bags, set off from Cape Town , and prepare for a stunning adventure at Gondwana Private Game Reserve.

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Errr. Emma, you should get out more. There are many more beautiful, wild, authentic and diverse reserves in the Cape than this. At least go for places that are mostly natural and enjoy the unique endemics of the Fynbos, and wildlife experiences you can’t get on any bland, beige safari …

Hi Mark! I wish I had more time to “get out more” and visit more reserves in the region. I wouldn’t say that Gondwana was bland at all, especially if you are a first-timer. Of course, it is nothing like the safari I did in Tanzania for example, but for 2 days we still had a great time. But I would love to go back to the Cape Town region, so feel free to share some places you think are not Beige Safari 😉 and hopefully I can check it out soon! Thanks!

As a South African I was very disappointed in Gondwana. Food and accommodation was great, but the game drives left a lot to be desired. We had to find lion at all costs, and we’re still unsuccessful. I understand that international visitors want to see lion, however, they miss out on so much by chasing after lion, and then seeing two eyes shining in the dark, is anything but a good sighting. There are other reserves in the Western Cape, however, most of them are like zoos. We will find rhino around this corner, elephant the next and so on. If you want to have a truly authentic bush experience, do a self drive to Kruger, nothing beats that, other than doing one of their guided walking trails. Again, you will most probably not see lion on a walking trail, but I would far rather go into the bush on foot than in a game viewing vehicle.

Thanks for sharing your feedback Anne! I agree that our driver really tried to find the lions, and we were sooo lucky to see them early on during our morning drive, walking right past our car. Some of the other cars looked for them or stayed put for a VERY long time trying to see them, and I think that would have annoyed me too! I really liked our time in Gondwana, but of course it is nothing like the big National Parks. I visited Tanzania a few years ago and that was truly mind blowing! I would love to see Kruger, and doing a self-drive would also be a great new experience! And if I go for a walk, I am more than glad to not see a lion 😛 !! Is there any place you would recommend for a quick safari for people visiting Cape Town and short on time like I was? Thanks a lot!!

Well, that’s just like your opinion man …

Guido Brits

Just of note: Every park has its downfalls. Kruger is over rated. I’ve been to all parks in SA and countless times to Kruger in which up to date never saw any lions, cheetah or leopard. Kruger’s disadvantage is besides enormous, the bush is very dense making it difficult to spot the cats. Much better at Etosha. However, don’t forget Addo.

hi Guido, Thank you so much for sharing your experience. You are so lucky to have visited all these parks!! I have heard mixed reviews about Kruger indeed, so it is not really on my top priority list of parks to visit at the moment. Well noted on Etosha and Addo though, I will definitely look it up! Best, Emma

I love Gondwana game reserve too. We went there for my birthday a few years ago. One can definitely get there from Cape Town, specially if you don’t have enough time to fly to Kruger national park. And you see animals. We also were lucky to see lions. In Kruger national park you can drive for hours without seeing much, You can be lucky to see a lot, but you can be unlucky and see only monkeys and birds. Avoid school holidays. You see a lot of cars, not animals.

Hi Nataliya, Such a nice birthday trip, right?!! I would love to do a self driving safari but indeed I always wonder how much you can actually see. I feel like the expertise of the driver is such an integral part of the experience . But still, I would love to try, just to get that incredible feeling of freedom! Thank you for stopping by and sharing your experience. Best, Emma

Marcel van der Merwe II

Well done on a great piece! As a Western Cape local, I can certainly agree with you that Gondwana Game Reserve ranks up there in the top spots as an authentic Cape safari experience. It is one of only two private game reserve that have reintroduced the iconic ‘Big 5’ as self-sustaining free-roaming (within large reserves at least), a feat that not even any of the National Parks or government Nature Reserves have managed to accomplish. The other private reserve being Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, who with Gondwana, deserves to be recognised as the top authentic Western Cape safari destinations. Of course these can’t be compared to the expansive savanna reserves like Kruger because they are located in a totally different landscape.

Africa is much more that just the savannas that tend to receive all the focus on Wildlife documentaries. Well done on a great article and a superb literary encapsulation of Gondwana Game Reserve and the unique Cape safari experience!

Marcel van der Merwe II Gora Wilderness Foundation

Hi Marcel, Thanks a lot for your kind words! Well noted on Sanbona, I will definitely look it up if & when we visit Cape Town again. Of course, there is so much more to see in Africa, with such rich variety of landscapes, I really want to visit more and more. I hope something will be in the cards for 2023!! Best, Emma

Grant Insley

Hi Emma. If you want Big 5 parks, then the Western Cape does not really have much to offer, especially if one wants free roaming animals, but if chasing after the Big 5 is not essential and you want to self-drive, then the Karoo National Park is worth a visit and is also around 4 hours from Cape Town out on the N1. Most of your catering will be self-catering, but breakfasts come free with chalet accomodation. There is a restaurant where you can get supper as well, but when in SA, do as South Africans do and braai at your chalet for dinner. Normal SANParks rules apply for driving in the park. No real luxury, but much more freedom at a significantly lower cost. Grant

Hi Grant, I would love to do a self-driving safari someday, that must indeed feel like the next level of freedom. And a braai at the end of a long driving day … sign me up immediately!! I hope to be able to come back to SA soon! Thank you for taking the time to share this precious information 🙂 Best, Emma

Great to read about your experience at Gondwana. I chose Aquila Private Game Reserve on my last trip to Cape Town. While I loved it, I’d like to return and experience something new. Gondwana looks lovely.

Aquila looks great as well, I will save it for a future trip to Cape Town!! Thanks for the tip 🙂

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3 DAYS IN CAPE TOWN – THE COMPLETE ITINERARY

7 ways to experience the world's largest sub-tropical rainforest

Travel Journalist

13 December 2023

| THIS ARTICLE WAS CREATED IN PARTNERSHIP WITH Visit Scenic Rim |

This article was created in partnership with visit scenic rim, queensland’s scenic rim is a gateway to ancient gondwana rainforests, stylish eco-retreats and thrilling adventures..

Sitting within a volcanic caldera formed around 25 million years ago, the Scenic Rim is the perfect place to get back to nature. Known as the green behind the gold – and only an hour’s drive from the Gold Coast or 90 minutes from Brisbane – this diverse and fascinating region is home to many treasured national parks in the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Gondwana Rainforests of Australia, the world’s largest sub-tropical rainforest. Here, where most of the world’s only remaining Antarctic beech trees, along with other rare and threatened plants and animals, you’ll find unmissable Gondwana Rainforest experiences.

The beauty of it all is that it’s easy to discover. The towns and villages of the Scenic Rim are warm and welcoming, with a wealth of experiences waiting for visitors.

Walk through the Gondwana Rainforest on the Tamborine Mountain Rainforest Skywalk.

1. Chase waterfalls in Lamington National Park

Known as Woonoongoora in the Yugambeh language, the mountains of Lamington National Park , in the south of the Scenic Rim, are sacred and spiritual. Lace up your hiking boots and set out on some of the 160 kilometres of walking tracks throughout the park, where rainforests, creeks, waterfalls and spectacular views await.

Perched between Tamborine Mountain and Lamington National Park, the village of Beechmont is an ideal base for exploring or relaxing. Those who venture into the peaceful valleys below will find the Lost World, a place to slow your pace and disconnect from the bustle of daily life.

Join ParkTours for a guided single or multi-day walking tour. (Image: Alexander Wooten)

Hit the trails solo, or join ParkTours or Horizon Guides for a guided single or multi-day walking tour. Afterwards, refuel with paddock-to-plate meals cooked over an open fire at chef-hatted restaurant The Paddock at Beechmont Estate.

Spend the night at one of several boutique accommodation options that offer comfortable luxury and incredible views of the rainforest. Try Alcheringa Holiday Houses , Binna Burra Lodge , O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat or Beechmont Estate . For a unique glamping option in the Lost World Valley, book into Nightfall .

Enjoy incredible views from Binna Burra Lodge’s Tiny Wild Houses. (Image: Leighton Pitcher)

2. Feel on top of the world at Tamborine Mountain

On Tamborine Mountain , the rainforest is never far away, yet creature comforts abound. Meandering country roads reveal sweeping views of the countryside and beyond to the coast.

Tamborine National Park, the third oldest national park in the world, has many short rainforest walks to waterfalls and lookouts. For lovers of soft adventure, Tamborine Rainforest Skywalk offers a view of the lush rainforest canopy, while TreeTop Challenge at Thunderbird Park is home to Australia’s largest zipline attraction and a high wire course.

Make time for Cameron Falls between incredible meals. (Image: Lachlan Gardiner)

For a change of pace, grab some takeaway from Picnic Real Food Bar then wander through Tamborine Mountain Regional Botanic Gardens .

You’ll also discover award-winning Tamborine Mountain wineries, distilleries and breweries. Stop in for a tasting or meal at Witches Falls Winery , Tamborine Mountain Distillery or Cauldron Distillery . Weekend markets, shops and galleries offer more reasons to stay longer.

Stop in for a tasting at Witches Falls Winery. (Image: TEQ)

3. Spend time on Country at Mount Barney National Park

The rugged and distinctive peaks of seven mountains dominate the skyline of Mount Barney National Park . It’s a place of deep significance to the local Indigenous people, whose stories, rituals and traditions form their connection with this country.

At 1359 metres, Mt Barney is one of the highest peaks in south-east Queensland. While climbing it is only for the fit and experienced, there are other ways to connect with this ancient landscape. Yarriba Dreaming offers a three-day immersive Indigenous cultural experience at Mt Barney Lodge, an Advanced Ecotourism and adventure retreat. Traditional owner Gurruhmun (meaning ‘Old Man Kangaroo’) helps connect visitors to Country and nature.

Join Gurruhmun for a Yarriba Dreaming tour.

Later, stop for a meal at The Overflow Estate 1895 for modern dining with traditional French flair, made with locally sourced ingredients and paired with estate-grown wines. Sleep it off in one of the estate’s five secluded WANDERPods overlooking peaceful Lake Wyaralong.

Sleep in one of five Wanderpods at The Overflow Estate 1895 (Image: TEQ)

4. Walk through ancient landscapes in Main Range National Park

Keen bushwalkers will find plenty of tracks to explore in Main Range National Park . Discover them solo, or join Spicers Scenic Rim Trail for guided multi-day walks through the park’s eucalypt forests and rainforest. Each day ends in luxury at secluded eco-camps where guests can revive and gather strength for the next day’s adventure. And here’s a tip: hiking in the cooler higher altitude forests is an ideal way to beat the summer heat.

Beyond the bush, delightful country towns reveal chef-hatted restaurants, wineries, breweries, boutiques and country markets. Local favourites include classic gastro-pub Roadvale Hotel , house-baked treats and incredible breakfast offerings at Scenic Rim Farm Shop and Cafe , and craft brews at Scenic Rim Brewery (which is set in a heritage-listed general store).

Treat yourself to incredible dishes like Truffle Linguine at Roadvale Hotel.

For something a bit different, try the innovative set menu at Blume Restaurant , which showcases the best of the region’s produce, or sample the modern Australian cuisine at The Kooroomba Kitchen – after a wine tasting at their cellar door and a stroll through their lavender fields, of course.

Extend your stay with a night – or several – at Mount French Lodge , nestled in picturesque countryside, or enjoy the sophisticated style and secluded luxury of Spicers Hidden Vale or Spicers Peak Lodge .

Enjoy seclusion and style at Mount French Lodge.

5. Travel sustainably with expert guides

Sustainable travel is increasingly important to travellers and the Scenic Rim is well placed to meet that need, with a range of guides and operators with a strong commitment to sustainable tourism. Local ecotourism pioneers Binna Burra Lodge, O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat and Mt Barney Lodge are among the region’s many businesses that have gained Ecotourism Australia’s ECO Destination Certification.

Travel lightly with eco-friendly Gondwana Rainforest experiences like a stay at O’Reilly’s Rainforest Retreat. (Image: TEQ)

6. Take to the air in a hot air balloon or helicopter

From a helicopter pub crawl to gently drifting in a hot air balloon, take to the air for a different perspective on the Scenic Rim. Early risers can join Floating Images Hot Air Balloon Flights or Hot Air Balloon Gold Coast on a gentle ride above the region, while indulgence seekers can take an airborne joyride to lunch at a winery or pub – or just to see the sights from the air – with Pterodactyl Helicopters , Elite Helicopters or Gold Coast Helitours . For thrills, take a tandem ride with Oz Paragliding and Hang Gliding or Gold Coast Paragliding for an exhilarating view of the landscape below.

Take to the skies on a helicopter. (Image: Pterodactyl Helicopters)

7. Join in Eat Local Month

The Scenic Rim is an Australian leader in the ‘Eat Local’ movement, and their famous Eat Local Month , held each June, is the ultimate foodie experience. It’s a chance to see behind the scenes at farms and wineries and to meet the people who produce the flavours of the region.

The region also champions restaurants and cafes that serve local ingredients all year round, as well as those who work closely with local farmers to create menus with the best of each season’s award-winning produce.

Time your stay for Eat Local Month.

Start planning your Scenic Rim getaway .

Lee Mylne is an award-winning Brisbane-based freelance travel writer who has visited more than 60 countries, but still loves writing about the places closest to her. She has a strong interest in people, history, culture and nature and will go anywhere for a good story.

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Gondwana Game Reserve

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" Go there and enjoy "

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" Get there early it takes about 25 minutes to drive in from the entrance. We got there for 2 and it was a bit of a rush as lunch was included "

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Gondwana Game Reserve - UPDATED 2024 Prices, Reviews & Photos

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Gondwana Game Reserve

Gondwana Game Reserve, Mossel Bay Ward 7, Mossel Bay Local Municipality, Garden Route District Municipality, Western Cape, South Africa

Related Places

Garden route and klein karoo.

Less-than a four-hour drive from Cape Town, you can enjoy a five-star safari experience at the Gondwana Game Reserve, based in the heart of the Garden Route and Klein Karoo.

The 11 000-hectare game reserve provides guests with the opportunity to view free-roaming animals, including the Big 5 – lion, buffalo, elephant, leopard and rhino – in a majestic landscape flanked on all sides by the Langeberg and Outeniqua Mountain ranges.

A game reserve like Gondwana will inevitably be judged by its safari option, and it’s here that the Garden Route park comes to the party. With free-roaming Big 5 and a wide variety of other animals found here, visitors can be assured of an exciting game drivee, whether it be morning or afternoon. Lasting for around three-hours at a time, the guests are driven by an experienced, and knowledgeable game ranger in an open land rover, and enjoy gourmet breakfast treats or a tasty sundowner spread in a carefully selected viewing spot. Seeing these incredible animals in their natural environment, free from cages and minimal human intervention, is a rare treat and a bucket-list experience of note.

Coming soon

Gondwana will soon be offering a three-night walking trail through the reserve.

The trail takes you to three remote tented fly camp locations with two full days of hiking, with your expert trail guides revealing to you the unique biodiversity and ecosystems, while experiencing the Big Five and multiple species of other animals on foot. The ultimate slack-packing adventure, the Pioneer Trail is set to launch in November, 2019.

Accommodation

Gondwana boasts an incredible offering here that combines luxury services with a nod to the past, with the gorgeous Kwena Lodge accommodation a luxurious twist on the traditional Khoi-San dwellings. Made up of four open-plan suites that blend into the natural surroundings with 180-degree views, sky lights for star gazing, fireplaces and deep baths in which to relax upon returning from an evening game drive, guests will often be visited by animals on the reserve – right on their doorstep.

Gondwana also offer luxurious villa accommodation for bigger groups, with 12 spacious and luxurious bush villas (3- and 4-bedroom configurations), which are privately situated, each with spectacular, uninterrupted views from their expansive wooden decks. Some of the villas a located 30+ minutes from the main camp and guests will need to drive in for meals and game drives.

Activities nearby

Once on location, you will feel completely off the grid, such is the vastness of the reserve, but there are plenty of other activities and experiences located nearby. World-class tourist facilities and Garden Route attractions on Gondwana’s doorstep include Championship Golf Courses at Pinnacle Point, Pezula, Oubaai and Fancourt, Blue Flag beaches and the coastal towns of Mossel Bay, Knysna and Plettenberg Bay, all of which offer a huge amount of attractions.

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Gondwana: The perfect family safari break!

Gondwana makes family safaris easy and fun for all. The private reserve’s accessible location to Cape Town and the Garden Route makes it a short road trip for the family with beach, golf and additional tourist attractions on Gondwana’s doorstep to add to the family adventure.

A safari is a wonderful multi-generational holiday that enriches and rejuvenates the whole family. Parents and children leave Gondwana with a renewed passion for nature and a greater understanding of our precious ecosystem, all while experiencing a safari holiday they will never forget.

‘Arguably the best family safari accommodation in Africa…’

All families are accommodated in the spacious and luxurious three- and four-bedroom Bush Villas for their comfort and convenience. Gondwana’s Fynbos Villas and Bush Villas offer the luxury amenities of a Safari Lodge with all the comforts of home ideal for families including an open plan kitchen, TV and space to enjoy your natural surroundings.

Each Villa is privately situated with awe-inspiring views of the mountainous landscape and wildlife from their expansive outdoor decks. Children can sleep in a twin or king bed or a cot and will find wildlife bedtime stories on their pillow with a treat.

Various packages can be booked from Full Board (three meals at the nearby Kwena Lodge and two daily game drives) to Half Board to the B&B and daily game drive package. Families often want to spend more downtime in their villas and can arrange delivered meal options to accommodate children’s sleeping schedules.

All meals are served at the main lodge in a variety of locations, including boma breakfasts after the morning drive, open-air lunches and afternoon tea under the expansive and cool thatch roof in the new outdoor dining space, as well as elegant dinners in the indoor dining room.

Children’s menus are available for lunch and dinner with lots of yummy kids’ treats throughout the day. Families are welcome to arrange in-villa lunch picnics and dinner braais which can be easier with the little ones and nice for the family to enjoy dining alfresco on the deck.

If parents wish to have dinner at the lodge without their young children, babysitting and in-room kids’ dining can be arranged in the villas.

Game drives  in a Big 5 game reserve are one of the ultimate family holiday activities that all ages enjoy. Gondwana’s expert field guides reveal Africa’s wildlife in a Cape Fynbos environment, a truly unique safari experience.

Exhilarating encounters with lion, rhino, elephant, buffalo, hippo and giraffe as well as 15 species of antelope including kudu, eland, waterbuck and many more will leave lasting memories.

Additional inclusive activities on offer include  mountain biking  in the fenced 1 000-hectare protected area, guided  Fynbos  experiences,  walking  safaris,  conservation  activities and Africology  spa  treatments.

Calling all Junior Rangers!

Family itineraries include a Junior Ranger Programme, which sees kids enjoying a few hours daily out and about with their own dedicated Junior Ranger Field Guide experiencing what it is like to learn and live on a wildlife reserve.

The ‘little rangers’ receive Gondwana backpacks complete with some treats, art supplies and a cool custom safari booklet to fill in throughout their stay. During game drives and other activities with their ranger, kids will learn how to track mammals, identify birds and stars, as well as taste and touch Fynbos flowers.

The younger children’s activities will be based mainly around the lodge to stay closer to parents whereas the older ‘Junior Rangers’ will explore further afield with the dedicated ranger giving Mom and Dad a bit of downtime.

Your children will receive level 1 Junior Ranger completion certificates and leave Gondwana with a greater understanding of nature and the importance of conservation for the future of our planet, all while having a safari holiday they will never forget!

Children Policies 

• Children up to five years of age stay complimentary and children age six to eleven pay 50% of the adult per person sharing rate. Children 12 years and older pay the per person sharing adult rate.
• Children under the age of two years old are not permitted on a Game Drive for their own safety. Children under the age of six are not permitted on Game Drives, only on a private vehicle.
• The Junior Ranger programme is complimentary for all Full Board and Half Board guests with children.
• Mountain biking is a complimentary offering for the whole family. Adult and children bikes are available for unguided bike rides on demarcated routes.

For more information and to book, please visit gondwanagr.co.za

Gondwana Private Game Reserve: Where luxury and wilderness meet

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Gondwana Tours & Safaris

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GONDWANA TOURS & SAFARIS (Maun) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go

Gondwana Tours & Safaris

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Gondwana Tours & Safaris - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)

Guest Arrival Information

We look forward to hosting you, live weather report, what to pack – essentials for all seasons, the best clothing to wear on safari, is light and comfortable. dress in layers and in the colours of the african bush ~ khaki, brown and beige..

• 1 wide-brim Safari Hat or cap
• 1 Beanie for cooler weather
• Neutral Safari coloured tops and bottoms (short sleeve and long sleeve shirts & pants / jeans and shorts)
• A Fleece or puffer Jacket
• Walking shoes & a pair of flip-flops
• Insect Repellent
• Binoculars: 10×42’s are best.
• Camera with a long lens is ideal
• Travel Adaptor & chargers

Check-in Times for Gondwana Game Reserve

For guests staying in our kwena suites, kwena villas or lehele villas these are your check in times;.

Suggestion arrival time between: 12:30-13:30 in order to have lunch prior to check in.

15 APRIL – 20 SEPTEMBER

• 13:00 – 14:30 Lunch
• 14:30 – 15:00 Light Lunch
• 14:00 Check in to room
• 15:00 – 15:30 Afternoon tea
• 15:30 Afternoon game drive
• 18:30 – 21:30 Dinner
• 06:30 Morning Game Drive
• 08:30 – 10:30 Breakfast
• 11:00 Departure

21 SEPTEMBER – 14 APRIL

• 15:30 – 16:00 Afternoon tea
• 16:00 Afternoon game drive
• 06:00 Morning Game Drive

Please inform us of any dietary requirements you may have or special requests such as celebrations, special interests or special needs.

Additional safari activities, ~ rates valid till 30 april 2025.

Junior Ranger Programme ~ 10:30-12:00, R 350 per child per activity, age 4-12 Bokkie Drive ~ 10:30-11:30, R 495 per adult & R250 per child, age 0-6 (one adult need to accompany children) Guided Fynbos Bush Walk ~ 10:30-12:30, R 750 per adult & R325 per child, age 6-12 San Trail ~ 10:30-14:00, Big5 Walking Safari, R 1200 per adult Bush Spa ~ 08:00-17:00, Please view Bush Spa Private drive  ~ R8000.00 per drive (max 10 guests) Baby-sitting  ~ R250 per child per hour Transfer cost  ~ R200 per person one way

Email: [email protected] to pre-book the activities above to avoid disappointment

Contact Reservations: +27 (0)21 555 0807 / +27 (0)74 582 4861 Lodge: +27 (0)44 333 0200

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• Please make 100 % deposit payment by the or your booking will be released and forfeited after 3 days. • Payment can be made via Bank transfer (details are presented on invoice) • Alternatively, if you would like to pay by Credit card , please contact [email protected] • Please note that any international refunds will be processed in the ZAR amount received irrespective of the exchange rate at the time of refund. Terms & Conditions : Booking is only confirmed once payment has been received. In the event of cancellation, the following rules shall apply: CANCELLATION fees of 100% of the value of the booking will apply if your reservation is cancelled 30 days or less prior to arrival. AMENDMENT fees of 25% of the value of the booking will apply if you amend your reservation 21 days or less prior to arrival.

Conservation Fees R450.00 per adult per stay and R225.00 per child per stay. The conservation levy guests pay is vital in helping Gondwana protect its endangered flora and fauna through its anti-poaching unit and training facility as well as ongoing conservation programs to strengthen our biodiversity.

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More From Forbes

How bonaire is fighting to keep its number one tourist attraction.

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A volunteer takes notes near a coral nursery near in Bonaire. Tending to a coral nursery is hard ... [+] work, involving hours of scraping PVC pipe in cold water.

Bonaire's number one tourist attraction is in trouble.

You can see it as soon as you submerge into the flat-calm, teal ocean and find a graveyard of bleached coral. Years of pollution, climate change and disease have taken their toll on Bonaire's marine life. The Caribbean island, perhaps one of the greatest scuba diving destinations on earth, is fighting to keep its once-vibrant reefs.

But if you look beyond the dead coral lining the shallow waters near the shore, you'll see something else: Trees made of PVC pipe, from which new coral is growing. These nurseries are part of Bonaire's efforts to save the reef — and tourism.

In Bonaire, sustainability is a do-or-die proposition. If this island doesn't do something soon, its reefs could perish — and the reason so many people come to this tropical island will evaporate. But there are other equally important sustainability efforts underway, including a focus on solar energy and an innovative cooking school that specializes in growing its own food.

Last week, in the first part of my series on tourism and sustainability, we visited Panama — a destination that has embraced sustainability despite the environmental destruction caused by the Panama Canal. Today, we're moving on to Bonaire, a small island off the coast of Venezuela that needs to become sustainable if it wants to survive as a tourism destination.

Bonaire is heavily dependent on tourism. In 2023, it had 169,706 overnight visitors , about the same as the previous year and surpassing the prepandemic 2019 numbers by almost 8%. Most visitors come from Europe, and most come to dive and snorkel its famous reefs. Tourism accounts for more than 40% of economic activity and generates hundreds of millions of dollars in revenue every year.

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Paul Coolen, manager of Buddy Dive Resort Bonaire.

“If there are no fish, there are no visitors”

Paul Coolen, manager of Buddy Dive Resort Bonaire , the location of one of the coral nurseries, says repairing the coral reefs is an existential issue.

"We want to be Buddy Dive," he says. "Not Buddy Dove ."

Buddy Dive and other dive shops in Bonaire are part of an island-wide effort to regrow coral. It's being coordinated through Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire , a non-profit organization dedicated to protecting and restoring Bonaire’s coral reefs through a large-scale reef restoration program.

Coolen says there are two reasons to bring back the coral. Obviously, undoing the destruction caused by runoff from sewage and chemicals is the right thing to do. But it’s also good for business.

"If there's no coral, there's no fish," he says. "If there are no fish, there are no visitors."

How do dive shops like Buddy Dive help? They offer a special reef renewal class through the Professional Association of Diving Instructors (PADI). After students complete a two-day course, they're qualified to help Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire tending the coral nurseries.

Coral farming is hard work. You spend an hour at the bottom of a reef, fighting currents, and scraping fast-growing algae off PVC pipe. But it is also rewarding. Some parts of the reef are already well on their way to recovery.

Caitie Reza of Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire holds coral samples at the nonprofit's offices in ... [+] Bonaire.

A coordinated effort to restore Bonaire's reef

Caitie Reza, the communications director for Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire, says the organization uses two techniques to restore threatened coral species.

The first is a process called fragmentation, which grows coral in nurseries and outplants them onto degraded reef sites around Bonaire. A second method, larval propagation, facilitates sexual reproduction in coral to produce genetically unique coral that can be transferred to reef sites.

Reef Renewal Foundation Bonaire relies on 14 dive shops on the island to supply volunteers who can tend the coral nurseries. It's an opportunity for tourists to visit Bonaire, go diving, and do some good.

"It's also an example of a good mutual relationship between a non-profit and businesses on the island," she says.

There's more happening behind the scenes. Bonaire's current government has an ambitious tourism development plan to promote sustainability through local businesses. And it has been trying to protect the environment for years. The island is home to the oldest national park in the former Netherlands Antilles and all of the water surrounding the island is a protected marine park.

But divers aren't the only ones concerned about the environment on Bonaire. Across the island, a new boutique hotel is pushing the limits of sustainability.

Britt Thomassen of Belnem House Bonaire. The boutique hotel is one of the only hotels in the ... [+] Caribbean to be completely off the grid, thanks to this battery array.

“We are 99 percent off the grid”

Near the island's saltwater flats, the new Belnem House Bonaire is doing its best to reduce its environmental impact. Its solution is a system of solar panels and batteries that power the resort.

Belnem is boutique property with one-bedroom efficiencies on the lower floor and luxury apartments in a second wing. It caters to beach lovers, divers and foodies who come to Bonaire to try its exotic Caribbean cuisine.

All over the property, you'll find evidence of its sustainability efforts — recycling bins, no single-use soaps, and even sustainable toilet paper. But its biggest sustainability initiative is invisible to the average guest.

"We are 99 percent off the grid," says Britt Thomassen, general manager of Belnem House Bonaire.

Belnem installed 250 solar panels on its roof — they're so discreet that they look like part of the building — which generate around 500 kilowatt-hours per day. The hotel stores the energy in a shipping container with 60 heavy-duty lithium-ion batteries with a total capacity of 450 kilowatt-hours for use during the evening.

"It's very challenging to be sustainable in a place like Bonaire," she adds. "This is the kind of place where you have to bring everything from outside. But with the system, we are at least trying to give a little bit back to nature, as best we can. That's good not just for the tourists, but also for the hotel."

Saeed Lourens, owner of the Nature Cooking School in Bonaire.

Bringing sustainable food to the island

Saeed Lourens, owner of the Nature Cooking School , is promoting a different kind of sustainability in Bonaire, but it may end up being just as important as saving the reefs or reducing its carbon footprint.

Bonaire imports almost all of its food from elsewhere, but Lourens wants to change that. He's on a mission to persuade Bonairians to grow their own vegetables and learn how to prepare them.

Lourens tends to his own small vegetable garden, which contains rows of plants that can grow on a desert island. There's a variety of banana, guava, corn, and a small cucumber that's native to the islands.

"We're really planting an ecosystem to help grow these plants," he explains.

The idea is to inspire students, who range from curious tourists to disadvantaged youth, to grow and prepare their food and still eat well. Lourens demonstrates by cooking lunch in the school's kitchen. The menu includes rice and beans with peas and papaya, and veggie burgers made from beetroot and sweet potato.

"I think more than anything, I want people to reconnect with nature after they've been to one of my classes," he says.

Lourens is in the process of moving the Nature Cooking School to a new location and hopes to open a plant-based restaurant on Bonaire soon. But its sustainability is a struggle on this island. Even though the benefits are obvious, the price is high and the outcome is never guaranteed.

Will tourists go out of their way for homegrown, plant-based food? Lourens says he hopes so.

Femke Schut, the owner of QVillas at Villa Kas Koral. "Sometimes it's hard to be for the ... [+] environment," she admits.

A long way to go to becoming sustainable

Truth is, Bonaire still has a long way to go before becoming a truly sustainable destination. The reefs are still badly damaged, despite significant progress in restoring them. There are no other hotels off the grid yet. And Lourens' plant-based cooking school is still taking root.

Femke Schut, the owner of QVillas at Villa Kas Koral , a vacation rental company in Bonaire, says she's tried to make her rentals more sustainable by adding solar panels. But sometimes, it feels like a struggle, especially when her guests leave the air conditioning running all the time, even when they are out for the day.

"I've been here for 20 years, and sometimes it's hard to be for the environment," she admits.

Schut is eager to see the government get more involved in sustainability. She also wishes guests would do their part, even though they are on vacation. But on Bonaire, it's becoming increasingly clear that for sustainability to succeed here, it has to become everyone's problem.

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Are these Pigeon Forge tourist attractions 'boring'? See where they rank

The Great Smoky Mountains National Park is by far the most visited national park in the country. And it's safe to say that many of those visitors combine a trip to the natural beauty of the park with a visit to Dollywood and the other many tourist attractions available in Pigeon Forge, which, to be honest, can feel more like Las Vegas than the Smokies.

From Alcatraz East Crime Museum (back in the news for O.J. Simpson's Bronco) to Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud and even Goats on the Roof (which has a coaster btw), there is no shortage of places for tourists to drop their hard-earned cash.

But are they worth the investment of dollars and time? According to a recent analysis of Google reviews, quite a few ranked high on a list of "most boring tourist attractions."

Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride ranked third worst attraction in world

Solitaired, an online game site, analyzed 66.7 million Google reviews of 3,290 popular tourist attractions worldwide to determine which were the least interesting. The analysis focused on keywords such as "boring," "bored," "bore," "boredom," "tiresome," "dull," "drab," "lackluster," "lifeless," "mediocre" and "tedious."

Tennessee ranked No. 3 as the state with the most intensely boring attractions (49). And the Jurassic Jungle Boat Ride, an indoor boat adventure through an animatronic dinosaur park, was deemed the third most boring tourist attraction in the world.

The park, which has a three-star rating on Google, drew criticism for being run-down and overpriced, with one reviewer commenting, "It’s almost comical on how bad this attraction is."

"The park's theme appears far from amusement," Solitaired wrote. "According to the reviews, these dinos are ghosts of their former selves, perhaps worthy of a museum like their fossilized brethren."

Other Pigeon Forge mainstays also deemed boring

There are always going to be Debbie Downers among us . So take these rankings with a grain of salt, because even though enough reviewers enjoyed these attractions to give them an average rating of between 4.3 and 4.6, they still made the boring list.

• MagiQuest, which is home to Special FX Pirate Golf, Odyssey Mirror Maze and Adventure Arcade, ranked No, 20.
• Ripley's Believe It Or Not!, known nationally for its kitschy oddities on display, was No. 26.
•  Hatfield & McCoy Dinner Feud, which is owned by the Dolly Parton empire, was ranked No. 49.
• Crave Golf Club, a miniature golf course, ranked No. 53.
• TopJump Trampoline & Extreme Arena came in at No. 57.
• Alcatraz East Crime Museum was No. 78.
• Pigeon Forge Snow, an indoor snow center, ranked No. 83.
• Pirates Voyage Dinner & Show was only somewhat boring and was ranked No. 93.

Liz Kellar is a Tennessee Connect reporter. Email  [email protected] .

Support strong local journalism by subscribing at  knoxnews.com/subscribe . 

StarTribune

Two major duluth tourist attractions need millions in repairs.

DULUTH — Rust and corrosion plague the Aerial Lift Bridge, and the 2,300 auditorium seats in the Duluth convention center's auditorium — the biggest performing arts space in the city — are from 1966.

The bridge and the Duluth Entertainment and Convention Center (DECC) are two of the city's most visible and popular tourism draws, and they need millions in repairs and updates. Projects to address them are among nine that city officials have prioritized as they lobby for state bonding money this year.

Duluth leaders have sought upgrades to the 500-foot-long historic Lift Bridge for years. It needs about $20 million in repairs, and the city is lobbying for $8.2 million to add to city funds and state and federal money.

Mayor Roger Reinert told a crowd gathered for Duluth and St. Louis County Days at the Capitol last month that the bridge is "iconic" for the entire state of Minnesota, along with being the only way to access "an entire neighborhood of Duluth."

That and the other projects prioritized by the city are core not only to Duluth but to the whole region, he said.

Average daily traffic crossing the bridge reaches more than 6,000 vehicles, and roughly 900 boats carrying 35 million short tons of freight pass underneath annually, city officials have said.

The bridge needs significant structural repairs to its lift span and overhead truss, and needs reconstruction of the cantilevered sidewalk, among other updates.

The DECC, home to Amsoil Arena and UMD Bulldog hockey, faces decades of deferred maintenance throughout its various venues. It was granted a $1 million line of credit from the city last fall to deal with low reserves, which it has not dipped into yet, Executive Director Dan Hartman said. Leaders laid off a handful of full-time employees and reduced hours for part-time workers last fall.

Because it's a state convention center that serves an entire region instead of being a city entity like convention centers in Rochester or Mankato, city officials don't always advocate for it, Hartman said, and problems have piled up.

The DECC is asking for $6.2 million to pay for projects including the Symphony Hall seating and re-worked auditorium space for people with disabilities. It also needs a new escalator and replacement of faulty pipe fittings, which force the DECC to run 190-degree water through the building's lines continuously. The repairs would reduce the complex's heating costs by 40%.

"We're just trying to get the [complex] back to normal, because it just hasn't had the support that a facility like this would have," Hartman said of the nine venues that fall under the DECC's realm.

The tourism hub drives traffic to town that boosts the city's economy, with visitors and convention-goers eating in restaurants, staying in hotels and paying to see attractions, Hartman said. If it falls further into disrepair, he said, it could also hurt other businesses.

Duluth is also lobbying for these projects:

• $6.7 million for upgrades and improvements at the water treatment plant, which has a pumphouse more than 100 years old

• Nearly $11 million for Lot D rehabilitation , to support preparation of the polluted waterfront site for economic development

• $7 million to support redevelopment of the Duluth Armory

• $25 million to aid construction of a Minnesota Air National Guard 148th Fighter Wing aircraft shelter

• $15 million for a new community center and sports arena in West Duluth

• Funding to redo a plan formed by former Mayor Emily Larson's administration for replacement of the downtown Duluth Public Library

• $14 million to help replace the Duluth International Airport's control tower

Jana Hollingsworth is a reporter covering a range of topics in Duluth and northeastern Minnesota for the Star Tribune. Sign up to receive the new North Report newsletter.

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