Image above taken from the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve website.
Experience these five safaris when you stay at the luxurious Grootbos Private Nature Reserve in South Africa (2 hours from Cape Town):
1. Flower Safaris: Game drives are amazing—there is NO doubt about that. But if you’re looking for a break from big game and are interested in exploring the flora of South Africa, than the Grootbos Private Game Reserve has just the safari for you.
Grootbos’ Flower Safaris offer guests a unique and interactive way to discover the species of wild flowers found throughout South Africa, and learn about their fascinating medicinal uses.
Grootbos—which actually means “Big Forest”—is filled with Milkwood, fynbos, and, of course, vibrant wildflowers and thickets. And throughout the Grootbos Reserve are winding trails that enable guests to explore the immense beauty of the land (this can either be done on guided tours or self-guided hikes).
During guided hikes, one of Grootbos’ knowledgeable guides will take you through the fields, introducing you to stunning wildflowers and plant life that include ericas, ancient milkwood trees (some estimated to be over 800 years old!), and over 750 species of rare fynbos, including cliffortia anthospermoides. Your guide will point out a plethora of plants along the way, as well as some of the endemic birds famous throughout the Grootbos Reserve. In total, Grootbos is home to more than 120 bird species, 21 mammal species, and 21 reptile species, so you’re sure to see some other forms of wildlife sprinkled throughout your flower safari!
You can experience a flower safari in the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve either by foot, 4X4, or horseback. The choice is up to you.
Image above taken from the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve website.
2. Marine Big 5 Safaris: Many travelers visit South Africa to witness the Marine Big 5—which includes dolphins, whales, sharks, seals, and penguins. Due to the popularity of witnessing these magnificent species, many of the major hot spots to witness these animals have become slightly overcrowded. But when you stay on Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, you get VIP treatment to witness all of the Marine Big 5 at close proximity in their natural habitat, away from large crowds.
To witness the Marine Big 5, Grootbos offers an intimate boat trip in Gansbaai, aboard the Whale Whisperer boat, which leaves from Kleinbaai Harbor every morning. During your boat trip, you’ll observe playful dolphins and surface-breaking whales at such close proximity that you can practically touch them! You can also combine this boat trip with a trip to Dyer Island and Geyser Rock (also known as Shark Alley) to observe great white sharks, Cape fur seals, and African penguins. The exhilaration of seeing one of the world’s most fierce predators in close range is unlike any other feeling in the world. And when you go out with Grootbos, you’ll be sure to have front row seats on their boat, which takes a limited number of individuals out each day to ensure optimal viewing.
During the Marine Big 5 safari, you’ll also have the opportunity to see a wide range of seabirds including the Cape cormorant, kelp seagull, black oyster catcher, and more.
It’s important to note that the Whale Whisperer will only take out 20 passengers at a time and is equipped with specialized guides who provided valuable insight during the entire excursion.
Image above taken from the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve website.
3. Shark Diving Safaris: Why observe the world’s most frightening predator from a boat when you can plunge beneath the ocean’s surface to view these riveting creatures in their “stomping grounds.” Grootbos offers shark diving safaris where guests can witness great white sharks beneath the water from the safety of a cage.
All of the cages are designed to float partially above the water, so you’re never more than one meter beneath the water (if that gives you some piece of mind!). There is also no previous diving experience required.
Images above taken from the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve website.
4. Horseback Riding Safaris: A favorite among guests, Grootbos horseback safaris allow guests to explore nearly 2500 hectares of unspoiled terrain, comprised of awe-inspiring coastline, dramatic mountains, and lush valleys, as well as diverse wildlife.
Grootbos has its own stables that house 20 horses. All levels of riders can be accommodated for and all tours are led by experienced instructors who not only guide guests through the reserve, but also point out various bird and plant species along the way.
For those wanting to expand their riding experience, Grootbos also offers a 3-hour horseback riding tour along the beaches of Walker Bay Nature Reserve. This stunning tour takes visitors over rolling sand dunes along the gentle breaking waves.
Image above taken from the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve website.
5. Wine Safaris: Cape Winelands is truly stunning and should not be missed while on a trip to South Africa; however, Elim, a quaint village located in the Cape, is home to exceptional vineyards that provide a completely intimate and personalized wine tasting experience. When you embark on a wine safari with Grootbos, you are sure to meet with the winemakers themselves, learn about the various wines, taste wines straight from the barrels, eat with the winemakers, and delight in enriching conversation.
All of the wine safaris can be tailor-made to fit guests’ needs and preferences.
Want to learn more about Grootbos Private Nature Reserve? Contact a Hills of Africa representative today!
These are great alternative ideas! I think I’d be most interested in a wine safari 🙂
Hi Sam! Yes, the wine tasting safaris are amazing and so personalized and intimate. You’re not with huge crowds and you really get to interact with the wine maker and taste different wines straight from the barrel!