Spekboom Tours

30/10/2024

Finally writing a blog of all the hikes and slackpack Spekboom Tours have completed in the past 7 years. Wow its been quite a journey!!

Back to nature Slack pack hiking in the Dargle Valley KZN Midlands. An introduction to the mysteries of the Mist-belt forest

20/10/2024

Even though we're at the tail end of Clivia season, I was ecstatic to discover a stunning new pocket of orange Clivia gardens on some of the fresh trails opening up in Shawswood! With over 300 hectares of indigenous Mistbelt forest to explore, we’re in for an amazing floral treat this Spring! 🌸✨

Can’t wait to share this beautiful experience with everyone!
conservancy

16/10/2024

This past month, we had the joy of taking 20 children from Lions River Primary into the magical Mistbelt forest in the Dargle. With binoculars in hand, they eagerly spotted the majestic Knysna Loerie and the elusive Starred Robin 🦅. Along the forest trail, they discovered animal tracks like porcupine and bushpig and let the peace of nature wash over them.

We ended the day with a picnic at Crab Apple—chocolate cake, birdsong, and bubbling streams creating the perfect moment! 🍰🌳 Huge thanks to Apple Cottages and and for making it all possible! 🙌

program

09/10/2024

An awesome little spot to stop off at!

03/10/2024

🌿 Adventure Alert for Young Explorers! 🌿

Hey there, parents! Are your kids aged 9-14 ready for an unforgettable adventure? 🏞️

Join us on Sunday, 13th October 2024 for an epic Hike & Scavenger Hunt up the stunning Nhlosane Mountain in Dargle! 🌄✨

This back-to-nature experience will have them hiking, exploring, and solving clues while soaking up the great outdoors. 🌱🌻

👟 Moderate Fitness Required (3-4 hours)
💰 Cost: R50-R80 per child
📆 When: Sunday, 13th October 2024
📍 Where: Nhlosane Mountain, Dargle

Ready for some fresh air and fun? Book now with Gilly at 083 271 7338 to secure your spot! 🎒
Bank Details: EFT only
First National Bank, Howick Branch code: 220725, Acc no 622 118 79236
Ref: Name + Oct Kids Walk

01/10/2024

My very first homemade canva video!! Now you art and film critics..go easy on me!! Im a bit spastic with technology but recently my lovely clients generously shared their photos and videos of their Clarens San Traverse Slackpack!! Pictures take the place of many gushy words, I think this video really encapsulates the essence of the hike; the hard moments, the best moments and the downright hilarious moments made especially funny with the crazy intrepretations off their essentric guide, Adrian and his dog Bella!! Fort

22/08/2024

North Coast, Mtunzini and Amatikulu, Spekboom Tours next slackpack!! Why? because there is so much on offer. From wide leafy coastal paths, lush tropical and dune forest, plenty of birding opportunities and endless peopleless stretches of white beaches!! This area has it all. Originally a Kinglet under the famous white chief, John Dunn, In 1948, 9 square kilometers of dune forests, lakes and lagoon at Mtunzini was proclaimed a nature reserve known as the Umlalazi Nature Reserve making wilderness and walking possible. Its now a destination for surfers, birders, nature-lovers, art-lovers, paddlers, cyclists and fisherman. Organize a group minimum 4 people and we will show you the very best of coastal hiking!!

20/08/2024

🌄 Thinking of dropping into Clarens for a long weekend? Why not! If you're craving a little adventure alongside the shopping and dining, join us for a 3-day slackpack hike. 🥾✨

Fully catered and expertly guided, this hike takes you through pristine, curated trails only accessible through private farms. It's one of our most popular tours, and for good reason!

Here are a few snapshots from our recent hike: despite the burned countryside, we found plenty of lakes and caves to explore, and meandering rivers to enjoy. Cozy accommodations made those chilly mornings feel luxurious, and Bella, our guide's dog, was the star of the group! 🐾🏕️

18/08/2024

🏞️ Feeling incredibly lucky to be in this line of work! Who else gets to have a board meeting while cycling with their boss to discuss school progress? Or meet all the other amazing service providers in the industry on an adventure summit in the Berg? 🏔️

This year, Spekboom Tours joined delegates from all over the country, striving to inspire, discuss, network, and share our passion for adventure in the great outdoors! 🌲🌟

The first day of the 'conference'? Oh, we weren't wilting away from "death by PowerPoint." Instead, we got to choose our own adventure poison! From rock climbing, via ferrata, and riding sidecars, to hot-air ballooning, hiking up Nandi Falls, shredding trails on mountain bikes, or traipsing through the forest on a canopy tour. 🌄🎈🚲

I chose to scale Sentinel Peak on a via ferrata, which is basically climbing to a dizzying height harnessed in on an iron cable. Fun fact: these types of cables were used in Italy/Austria during WWII to safely ferry goods and people through the Alps without actual rock climbing. 🇮🇹🧗‍♂️People can still do the Via Ferrata today

What an experience! If you've got a head for heights and a thirst for adventure, you HAVE to try it! Head to Witsieshoek, hire the equipment and a guide (or go self-guided if you're feeling brave and know how to handle your ropes), and prepare to be awed by the vulture's-eye view of Tugela Falls and the entire Tugela catchment in Royal Natal. 🏞️🦅

A huge thanks to all the service providers who made this epic conference possible! for genourously hosting the conference for all the whole get-together for designing and taking us on the via ferrata 🙌

16/08/2024

🏞️ Feeling incredibly lucky to be in this line of work! Who else gets to have a board meeting while cycling with their boss to discuss school progress? Or meet all the other amazing service providers in the industry on an adventure summit in the Berg? 🏔️

This year, Spekboom Tours joined delegates from all over the country, striving to inspire, discuss, network, and share our passion for adventure in the great outdoors! 🌲🌟

The first day of the 'conference'? Oh, we weren't wilting away from "death by PowerPoint." Instead, we got to choose our own adventure poison! From rock climbing, via ferrata, and riding sidecars, to hot-air ballooning, hiking up Nandi Falls, shredding trails on mountain bikes, or traipsing through the forest on a canopy tour. 🌄🎈🚲

I chose to scale Sentinel Peak on a via ferrata, which is basically climbing to a dizzying height harnessed in on an iron cable. Fun fact: these types of cables were used in Italy/Austria during WWII to safely ferry goods and people through the Alps without actual rock climbing. 🇮🇹🧗‍♂️People can still do the Via Ferrata today

What an experience! If you've got a head for heights and a thirst for adventure, you HAVE to try it! Head to Witsieshoek, hire the equipment and a guide (or go self-guided if you're feeling brave and know how to handle your ropes), and prepare to be awed by the vulture's-eye view of Tugela Falls and the entire Tugela catchment in Royal Natal. 🏞️🦅

A huge thanks to all the service providers who made this epic conference possible! 🙌 #

14/08/2024

Another wonderful East Griqualand Nomans’land slackpack done and duster!! Despite the recent fires the landscape was still beautiful and pristine. Each nights stay offered its own surprises, dining in a delli overlooking a fanciful lake, braaing under a starry starry night and luxiating in a herbal infused gulvinised bath in front of the hearth in a room set in 1880 period style. The walking was tough and rewarding!! If you are fit with a zeist for adventure and something different, please join us on one of the 2024 scheduled hikes. Min 6 pax

08/08/2024

https://www.getaway.co.za/travel/travel-ideas/turtle-tracking-in-kosi-bay/
🌊🐢 Ready for an adventure that’s more unforgettable than a beach holiday? This past year, a friend of mine who also happens to be a journalist for Getaway Magazine shared a stunning article about her 4-day walking tour in Kosi Bay, where she got to witness the hatching of sea turtles—talk about a bucket list moment! 🌅🐢
Guess what? We’re doing it again in 2025! 🥳 Join us from the 9th to the 13th of January for a Turtle Tour that’ll blow your flip-flops off! For just R7600, you get 4 days and 4 nights of all-inclusive magic (and if your kids are under 12, they get a sweet R1000 discount!). Yes, January might be a tad toasty, but it’s the only time you can catch both the laying AND hatching of these little shelled wonders. 🐢💫
This isn’t just any old beach trip; you’ll be in the best place on Earth for turtle watching—Bhanga Nek—where the Turtle Monitoring Team works hard to keep these little guys safe from light pollution and other human shenanigans. 🌙✨
Think easy, cool forest walks, a secluded boat tour through the sandy channels and river inlets of the Kosi Bay lake system, and plenty of downtime to snorkel in the 'aquarium' at the Kosi Mouth. 🛶🐠 And since it’s just after the December holidays, when you’re probably getting a bit crispy around the edges with the kids, this is the perfect way to create some special family moments without losing your sanity. (P.S. It’s kid-friendly for ages 8 and up!)

It is night, the sky a velvet cloak of stars. An almost full moon makes the sand glisten. Our torches while we are turtle tracking.

25/07/2024

While wide open roads, endless blue skies, and vast grassy plains are pleasing to the eye and easy on the brain, no cycle tour is complete without a good dose of history. Sometimes known as the 'Jewel of Mpumalanga,' this village, established in 1859, boasts three national monuments and a wealth of intriguing Boer/British history. 🏰🇿🇦

The architecture and many of the buildings are painstakingly restored by patrons invested in the preservation of the town. No PEP or McDonald's here, thank you very much. 🏠✨

We even ended the 26 km cycle ride around the town with a drop-in at the retirement home, Dana Tehuis—an incredibly well-run, affordable home with frail care. Mum and Dad, if you're reading this, I have plans for you! 😉

21/07/2024

Today, we bravely tackled the undulating hills of Naude's Nek and Jantpies Hoogte, a route often conquered by Corrie and G-Tir, our backup support team, while training for their 360 cycle comp. Of course, we weren’t quite in their league, but hurray for our trusty backup vehicle! 🚐 We were whisked back to Wakkerstroom just in time for the “Tour De France Pyrenees leg” and a microbrewery tour at Dindura. 🍻
Once again, we were all overwhelmingly impressed with the sheer talent in this tiny town. Everyone does a little of everything and knows a lot about everything. Meeting the local characters is the best way to get an intimate impression of life in Wakkerstroom. From world-class ceramists, botanists, and writers to travelers, we staggered out of the brewery high—not on their lovely lager but on the intriguing tales! 📚🌿

21/07/2024

🚴‍♀️🚴‍♂️ After a gentle suggestion, nudge, and later, a downright push, I have finally got around to organizing my first cycle tour! 3.5 years post-baby!! 👶🎉

Three of my most endearing past clients convinced me to take them for a spin around Wakkerstroom. Having gotten to know the Wakkerstroom residents very well while preparing the logistics for my Wakkerstroom Slackpack, it wasn’t a hassle to rustle up a fantastic 3 days of blissful cycling, brewery tours, history, and fine dining. 🍽️🍺🚴‍♂️

Wakkerstroom is a superb cycling destination with up to 70 scenic gravel road rides to choose from. Even in the dead of winter, there is still much to see—from Secretary Birds casually sauntering along the grassy plains to quiet, smooth roads circling the Zaaihoek Dam. And best of all, not another soul... only the delightful company of these three musketeers and much-needed time together with my handy husband… like old times!! ❤️✨
Stay tuned for more adventures and join us next time for an unforgettable experience! 🚴‍♀️🌟

15/06/2024

https://conservationmag.org/en/hiking/hike-in-style-with-griqua-express-4-days-of-luxury-slack-packing-in-south-africa

The wait is over! My dear friend Teigue Payne has finally published his sensational article on our 4-day Nomansland Slackpack adventure. In true Teigue style, he doesn't just recount the journey; he brings it to life with humor, intriguing history, and charming characters. His tales of debauchery and bootlegging are nothing short of illustrious!

I can vividly picture myself on those wild, forgotten plains as if 200 years have stood still. This is a must-read for anyone who loves a good story and a touch of adventure.

06/06/2024

Exciting News for Conservation!
The Northern Drakensberg Nature Reserve, spanning 6,500 hectares, has been officially established! This new reserve connects the uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park (a World Heritage Site) with the Sterkfontein Nature Reserve, creating a vital conservation corridor.
This isn't just about beautiful hiking spots; grasslands are crucial for biodiversity and water storage. These areas act as natural sponges, absorbing rainfall and contributing to South Africa's water security. Thanks to the dedication of 11 private landowners and organizations like WWF South Africa and Conservation Outcomes, we're making strides in protecting our precious grassland biomes. Read this article https://www.wwf.org.za/our_news/news/?48342/New-nature-reserve-in-the-breathtaking-Northern-Drakensberg

Outcomes

06/06/2024

‘Wakkerstroom is a little drinking village with a birding problem,’ No Traffic lights, slow food-low prices , honest earthy people, and a gem destination for birders (Rudd’s and Botha’s lark, yellow-breasted pipit, blue korhaan, and southern bald ibis)!! Wakkerstroom has it all. Only 3.5 hours from Durban or Joberg , this is the perfect long weekend getaway. Join us for a scheduled Wakkerstroom Wonder Slackpack from Thursday 14th November to Sunday 17th R5800 All-Inclusive 6 places left. Good food, great company, and gentle walking promised!!

Ecologically-conscious slack-packing and cycling tours through the most scenic and diverse parts of

02/06/2024

Introducing children to the great outdoors through the gentle art of strolling is a great way to detox from the digital world and reconnect with our inner yearning to be part of something bigger and wiser than ourselves. On the Karkloof Falls2Falls slackpack the daily distances and climbs to be tapered for little legs. Accommodation is children-friendly with plenty of attractions and lets face it, a few distractions, like canopy tours, frogging, and perfect little picnic sites give added perks to a holiday the whole family can endure.

So set yourself us for success with these top tips: https://runwildmychild.com/hiking-with-kids/ For those who don’t have time to read this article I have summarized the main points:

• The perfect age is RIGHT NOW. Set realistic expectations- Toddlers 3-4 can manage 1.5km. Choose clear paths without elevation and be comfortable walking at a slow pace - like 1km per hour. As the children age, rugged terrain with boulders and climbs can add a challenge and a heightened sense of accomplishment.
• Destinations are important, not just a hike in itself. Choose a picnic site, lake or river as an end reward.
• Start early when the sun is not too hot and we all have a good reserve of energy.
• Nothing will make your kid hate hiking more than being uncomfortable in their clothing, too hot/cold or getting blisters on their feet from wearing the wrong shoes. Layers work great for kids so they can adjust the amount of clothing to the outdoor temperature.
• Be patient: Giving your kids plenty of space, time, and independence to explore out on the trail will help them fall in love with hiking and nature. Remember the point of hiking is to immerse your child in nature, not for your own exercise. If you are like me, get your exercise and endorphin kick before so you feel “ at one” with the world and your child.
• Consider their personality and strengths when planning your hike and play to those to make it enjoyable for them. If your child loves being the leader, let them walk up front and lead the way. Give one kid the job of reading the map and choosing which direction you’ll hike.
• And lastly find the teaching moment in your hike. Learn together about the plants and animals you are likely to encounter and instill a deep respect and reverence in Nature.

17/05/2024

Who's ready for an adventure?! Just 20km north of Howick, lies the stunning Karkloof Valley, and the start of our epic Spekboom Midlands Falls2Falls 3-Day slackpack journey This place is like Mother Nature's playground - one minute you're surrounded by misty cloud forests, the next you're basking in the sun-kissed savanna And the wildlife? Oh boy From over 280 bird species to duikers, Reedbuck, zebra, wildebeest, and the occasional shy leopard (like the one my friend Charlene Russell spotted in Umngeni Valley - talk about a rare find!) Every day is a surprise on the Karkloof Falls2Falls trail, so come join us and expect the unexpected

10/05/2024

09/05/2024

A mid-week musing from our manager: The light on a early winter's evening in the Karkloof is simply magical, inviting you to explore all that the exclusive Rockwood trails have to offer.

08/05/2024

Spekboom tours are now offering monthly No mans’ Land scheduled slackpacks for individual to join. No mans’ land was once an unofficial boarder land strung between Kokstad and Underberg. It was a disputed territory between waring Zulu impis and Xhosa nations in the 1800’s. Whilst rich in history and crazy tales of mischievous bootleggers and social misfits, this area also comprises of high pristine wetlands ( an important catchment for the Ngwagwane and Umzimkhulu River systems) Its also a birders paradise. Included in the must tick, tick list are all three Cranes, the Cape Vulture, Secretary bird, Denham’s Bustard, Southern Bald Ibis, Pale-crowned Cisticola, Yellow-breasted Pipit, Eastern Longbilled Lark, Baillon’s Crake ,African Snipe and any of the flufftails. Whilst overnighting at the Ntsikeni community lodge, be sure to book an early morning walk with community bird guide, Dalu Ngcobo, a veteran in the area. Look forward to seeing you on the next hike

06/05/2024

Hi Fellow Slackpackers

I have a couple wishing to hike the Clarens San Traverse Slackpack Thursday 23rd May-Sunday 26th May and they need 2-4 extra people to make a group. I know it's short notice but here is your opportunity to jump on board a pre-organized group. Clarens is beautifully dressed in its Autumn colors. Get there before the cold Winter arrives. Contact me [email protected] for an itinerary and price list

02/05/2024

Nestled between Northern KZN and Mpumalanga, Wakkerstroom is a haven for birding enthusiasts and seekers of quiet village life. This year, Spekboom Tours is thrilled to unveil our new 3-day slackpack tour, showcasing the historical, birding, and waterfall wonders of this remarkable village. This slackpack takes a whole village of people to create!!
While many young people may venture elsewhere in search of opportunities, Wakkerstroom's sharp old bats - the wise elders who remain - hold a treasure trove of knowledge, skills, and wisdom. Their stories and insights add depth and richness to our experiences, reminding us of the value of tradition and community.
If you're curious about this quaint and sometimes forgotten place, dive into this article for a glimpse into Wakkerstroom's charm and allure.

Wakkerstroom has no traffic lights for 30km in any direction. Here's our guide to what to see and do in Wakkerstroom.