Hormart Expeditions - One-stop expedition directory - Recent listing in ZAF- places

Garden Route - 300KM stretch of coastline, South Africa

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:48:53 +0000

The Garden Route is a stunning ~300 km coastal stretch running along the southeastern coast of South Africa, from Mossel Bay in the Western Cape to Storms River in the Eastern Cape. This area is known for its lush, ecologically diverse landscapes — think verdant forests, dramatic cliffs, mountain passes, crystal-clear lagoons, and sandy beaches.

Part of the region is protected as the Garden Route National Park, which includes forested areas (Tsitsikamma, Wilderness) and coastal reserves. The park’s landscapes range from ancient yellowwood forests and fynbos shrublands to estuaries and dramatic coastline — a haven for hikers, nature lovers, and adventure-seekers.

Towns along the route — like Knysna, Plettenberg Bay, George, Wilderness, and Oudtshoorn — each bring their own flavor: seafood, local markets, forest trails, and even ostrich farms. Outdoor adventure is big here: you can hike the famous Otter Trail in Tsitsikamma, hike forest trails, kayak rivers (like Keurbooms), or even do a bungee jump at the iconic Bloukrans Bridge.

Birdlife is rich (nearly 300 species), thanks to the mix of forests, wetlands, and fynbos. The region also sees an interesting climate — mild and temperate, with rain pretty much year-round, due to its forested mountains and proximity to the Indian Ocean.

Visiting Info

Getting There:
- Most people drive via the N2 highway, which traverses the Garden Route from Mossel Bay → through George, Knysna, Plettenberg Bay → to Storms River.
- It’s very popular for self-drive road trips.
Activities:
- Hiking: Tsitsikamma (Otter Trail, suspension bridge), forest walks.
- Adventure: bungee jump from Bloukrans Bridge.
- Wildlife / Nature: Visit Knysna Heads, birding, estuary tours, kayaking on the Keurbooms River.
- Other: Visit Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn, explore ostrich farms.
Best Time to Visit: Because of the mild climate and year-round rain in parts, you can go almost anytime, but plan for some wet weather in forested areas.

Video

https://youtu.be/Shw0HEMuq_k

Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa / Botswana

Wed, 19 Nov 2025 08:27:09 +0000

The Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park is a vast, rugged wilderness that spans ~38,000 km², straddling the border between South Africa (Kalahari Gemsbok National Park) and Botswana (Gemsbok National Park). The name “Kgalagadi” means “place of thirst,” which is fitting — it’s a dramatic desert landscape of rolling red sand dunes, dry riverbeds (Nossob and Auob), sparse vegetation, and iconic camelthorn trees.

Despite the harshness, it’s teeming with life: large predators like black-maned Kalahari lions, cheetahs, leopards, and both brown and spotted hyena roam here, while herds of gemsbok, wildebeest, and springbok move through the dunes. The park is also known for its breathtaking night skies — the ’s lack of light pollution makes it a stargazer’s paradise.

Culturally, the park is significant: it includes heritage land for the Khomani San and Mier communities, and the !Xaus Lodge (run in partnership with them) offers both luxury accommodation and a chance to learn about San culture.

Visiting Info

Getting There:
- The main South African access point is via the Twee Rivieren gate, about 250 km north of Upington.
- There are other gates: Namibia (Mata-Mata), and on the Botswana side (Two Rivers, Mabuasehube, Kaa).
- Roads inside the park are gravel and rough — 4×4 vehicles with high clearance are strongly recommended.
- There’s a small landing strip at Twee Rivieren for limited air access (must arrange in advance).
Stay & Accommodation:
- Traditional rest camps: Twee Rivieren, Mata-Mata, Nossob.
  - Twee Rivieren is the largest, with a shop, fuel station, pool, reception, and phone reception.
  - Mata-Mata and Nossob have more basic, remote facilities; Nossob is built on a dry riverbed and is good for predator sightings.
- Wilderness camps: several very remote camps (Bitterpan, Gharagab, Grootkolk, Kieliekrankie, Urikaruus) for more adventurous travelers.
- !Xaus Lodge: a thatched luxury lodge run in partnership with local San communities.
Activities:
- Self-drive game viewing
- Guided 4×4 trails (some are 4-day eco-trails)
- Bird watching — there are ~272 bird species recorded.
- Stargazing, photography, cultural experiences with the San people
Border Crossing Rules:
- If you plan to cross into a different country’s side of the park, you must stay at least two nights inside the park.
- Passports / ID required for cross-border visitors.
Entry Fees:
- Conservation / daily fees (valid 1 Nov 2024 – 31 Oct 2025) for non-South African citizens: R512 for adults, R256 for children.
- A 1% community fund is added on top of accommodation / activity fees.

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3zdLnCAu63o

Polokwane - capital of Limpopo

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:38:29 +0000

Polokwane, also known as Pietersburg, is a city situated in the Limpopo Province of South Africa. [Map location]

Located at approximately 23.9009° S latitude and 29.4585° E longitude in the northern part of the country, it serves as the capital of the Limpopo Province and stands as South Africa's largest urban center north of Gauteng.

DEMOGRAPHY
Polokwane has a diverse demographic profile, with a population that includes various ethnic and cultural groups.

It is home to people of African, Coloured, White, and Indian descent. The demographics are reflective of the broader South African population mix.

ECONOMY
The economy of Polokwane is multifaceted. The city serves as an economic and commercial center for the Limpopo Province, with sectors such as agriculture, mining, manufacturing, and services playing pivotal roles.

Agriculture, particularly the cultivation of crops such as maize and vegetables, is significant in the region. The city's strategic location also contributes to its economic importance, being a key transport and logistics hub.

HISTORY
Polokwane has a history dating back to the 19th century when it was established as a Voortrekker settlement. The city has undergone several name changes throughout its history, including Pietersburg, its former name.

It has witnessed the effects of colonialism, apartheid, and post-apartheid transformation, contributing to its diverse historical tapestry.

GEOGRAPHY
Polokwane is characterized by its geographical location in a predominantly savanna landscape, with subtropical elements. It is situated in the Highveld region of South Africa and is surrounded by rolling hills and plains.

The city's proximity to game reserves and national parks, such as the Kruger National Park, enhances its geographical significance as a gateway to wildlife and natural beauty.

CLIMATE
Polokwane experiences a semi-arid climate with distinct wet and dry seasons. Summers are hot with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F), while winters are generally mild and dry, with temperatures averaging around 20°C (68°F).

Rainfall is highest during the summer months, contributing to the region's agricultural activities.

VIDEO

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ltpMLzbg4XY

Cape Town - South Africa's oldest city

Tue, 31 Oct 2023 00:18:29 +0000

Cape Town, situated at approximately 33.9249° S latitude and 18.4241° E longitude on the southwestern tip of the African continent, is both the legislative capital of South Africa and the country's oldest city. [map location]

It serves as the seat of the Parliament of South Africa and is the largest city in the Western Cape, as well as the second-largest in the nation, following Johannesburg. Additionally, it is a key component of the City of Cape Town metropolitan municipality.

Demography

Cape Town is a culturally diverse city with a population that reflects South Africa's rich tapestry. It is home to various ethnic groups, including people of African, Coloured, White, and Indian descent. The demographic composition of the city is influenced by its complex history, which has left an indelible mark on its population.

Economy

Cape Town boasts a diverse economy that includes sectors such as finance, tourism, manufacturing, and agriculture. The city's financial district is a key player in South Africa's economy, hosting numerous corporate offices.

Tourism is a major economic driver, with visitors drawn to Cape Town's natural beauty and cultural attractions. The surrounding wine regions also contribute significantly to the city's economy.

History

Cape Town has a rich and complex history. It was first established as a refreshment station for ships traveling to the East Indies by the Dutch East India Company in the 17th century.

Over the years, it witnessed colonialism, the apartheid era, and the struggle for democracy. It is also associated with the arrival of European explorers, such as Bartolomeu Dias and Vasco da Gama, as they rounded the Cape of Good Hope.

Geography

Geographically, Cape Town is characterized by its stunning natural surroundings. It is nestled between the Atlantic Ocean to the west and the Cape Fold Mountain range to the east, offering a diverse landscape.

Table Mountain, a prominent flat-topped mountain, is an iconic geographical feature of the city. The city's coastal areas are known for their picturesque beaches, while inland regions feature fertile valleys and vineyards.

Climate

Cape Town experiences a Mediterranean climate with distinct seasons. Summers are generally warm and dry, with temperatures often exceeding 25°C (77°F). Winters are cool and wet, with temperatures averaging around 15°C (59°F).

The city can experience strong winds, especially in spring. Its climate is influenced by the meeting of the warm Agulhas Current and the cold Benguela Current, affecting local weather patterns.

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=srP7RFVdjWc

Paternoster - one of the oldest fishing villages in South Africa

Sun, 02 Apr 2023 04:15:26 +0000

The village of Paternoster, located on the West Coast of South Africa, has a rich history with an uncertain origin of its name. While some speculate that the name derives from prayers said by Catholic Portuguese seamen during shipwrecks, as "Paternoster" means "Our Father" in Latin, others believe it may come from the Khoi tribe's term for their prayer beads, also known as Paternosters.

The name also appears as "St. Martins Paternoster" on an old map of Pieter Mortier, suggesting a possible link to Paternoster Row in the City of London, adjacent to St. Martins Court. The town, which spans 194.8 hectares and has a population of around 1883 people, is situated between Saldanha Bay and St Helena Bay, about 15 km northwest of Vredenburg and 145 km north of Cape Town.

Climate

The climate of the West Coast of South Africa, where Paternoster is located, is characterized by low rainfall, arid landscapes, and strong offshore winds. The region experiences most of its precipitation during the winter season and has a Mediterranean climate. This climate is conducive to the growth of the vibrant wildflowers that the West Coast is renowned for, which attract many tourists to the area.

Tourism activities

Paternoster and its surrounding area offer a wealth of opportunities to observe diverse marine and wildlife. Visitors can enjoy whale, dolphin, seal, and penguin watching, as well as birdwatching, with over 225 bird species in the region. For those seeking more active pursuits, the area boasts a range of sporting activities, including kayaking, kitesurfing, snorkeling, scuba diving, kite flying, hiking, and even swimming in the cold waters of the West Coast.

In spring, the area is transformed into a stunning floral paradise, as wildflowers burst into bloom, forming the South-Western fringe of the famous flower carpets of Namaqualand. Nature enthusiasts can explore the Cape Columbine nature reserve, covering an area of 263 hectares along the rocky coastline. The bay, which is part of the reserve, offers numerous picnic spots and braai facilities.

The Cape Columbine lighthouse is a must-see attraction, being the last manually controlled lighthouse in South Africa. Built in 1936 on Castle Rock, the light casts a beam visible from about 50 km and is usually the first South African lighthouse seen by ships coming from Europe.

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nmfDXxx6KsM

Clarens - Jewel of the Eastern Free State, ZAF

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 15:29:25 +0000

Clarens, dubbed the "Jewel of the Eastern Free State," is a small town located in the foothills of the Maluti Mountains in the Free State province of South Africa. The town was founded in 1912 and named after the Swiss town of Clarens, where the exiled Paul Kruger spent his final days. Clarens is approximately 336 km from Johannesburg, 284 km from Bloemfontein, and 389 km from Durban.

Tourism activities

Clarens is renowned as an artists' paradise, with many acclaimed artists either residing in or regularly visiting the village. Art galleries are scattered around the village square and town, making it a hub for artistic expression. The town's peaceful atmosphere, picturesque landscapes, and mild climate make it a popular escape for city dwellers from Johannesburg, Bloemfontein, Durban, and other regions. Clarens is particularly famous for its magnificent sandstone mountains and delightful weather conditions, and has recently been acclaimed as the premier destination for trout fishing in South Africa.

The town is a prominent destination on the picturesque Highlands Route, surrounded by a stunning range of mountains. The village lies within the Rooiberge range, while towards the southeast, the Maluti Mountains loom in a majestic range of purple and blue hues. The entire area is marked by striking sandstone cliffs with their distinctive multi-colored layers. Sandstone is a ubiquitous feature of the Clarens Valley, with many homes made from or clad in the material.

The area offers a variety of accommodation options, including bed and breakfasts, self-catering units, lodges, backpackers, and farm guest houses.

Visitors to Clarens can engage in a range of activities, such as horse riding, abseiling, hiking, fly fishing, fossil hunting, white water rafting, and golf. Live music performances are a popular feature on weekends.

During the Jurassic period, around 200 million years ago, the eastern region of the Free State in South Africa was inhabited by a variety of large dinosaurs. This was a time when the supercontinent Gondwana still existed and dominated the southern hemisphere.

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sqB6W1Z7ILQ

Nieu-Bethesda - place of flowing water, Eastern Cape

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 15:12:55 +0000

Nieu-Bethesda, located at the base of the Sneeuberge in the Eastern Cape, is a historic village with a religious origin, similar to many other towns in the Karoo region. The village, which obtained municipal status in 1886, was established in 1875 as a church town. The name of the village, derived from the Bible (John 5:2–4), signifies "place of flowing water."

With a population of approximately 1540 residents, Nieu Bethesda remains a racially segregated town. The majority of African residents (25.06%) reside in the Kloofroad area of Pienaarsig, while the Coloured (65.19%) and Black African (22%) residents live in Pienaarsig, the former township. The white residents (8.70%) occupy homes along the Gats River that flows through the town.

The town's economy relies on eight commercial farms that provide employment opportunities for locals, as well as various tourism projects such as the Kitching Fossil Exploration Centre, Bethesda Arts Centre, and The Owl House that generate income. Despite the presence of tourism projects, the town lacks ATMs and relies on banking services in Graaff Reinet. The Lettie de Klerk Primary School is the only school in Pienaarsig, and the town has one clinic staffed by a resident nurse.

Important

Prior to arriving in Nieu Bethesda, it is important to note that the town lacks petrol stations, banks, and credit card facilities. It is advised to ensure that your tank and wallet are filled before traveling to the town.

Video

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nShdU6XWhYw