Alan Tours

04/03/2025

🐘DEEP WITHIN THE AFRICAN BUSH🌳

After Alan Tours' Darrin, Angelika, Alan and their tour group's stay on the banks of the Blyde River, they packed up and travelled to the renowned Big 5 Kruger National Park for a super safari. They excitedly entered the Park's gates to enter the untouched wilderness of the magical Lowveld. They were in for a real treat!

Upon their arrival and check-in at Satara Camp, the Park's third largest camp, which is also known as one of the best areas to spot the big cats, they went for a lovely afternoon game drive. That evening, Alan was appointed the "braai master", and the group enjoyed their traditional South African meals under the stars. The group had a lot of laughs and chatted the evening away before retiring to their rooms for a good night's rest.

The next morning the group travelled southwards towards Lower Sabie for an overnight stay. During their comfort break at Nkuhlu Picnic Site, a Bushbuck family calmly meandered past the group while grazing. Lower Sabie offers brilliant game viewing opportunities and is also popular because of the thirsty wildlife that frequents the Sabie River and several bird species calling the area their home.

The group enjoyed a lovely sunrise game drive before breakfast and another that afternoon. They spotted several wildlife species in the area of Lower Sabie, including a big male giraffe, hippos in a whirlpool in Sabie River, waterbucks drinking from a dam, an African wild dog lying next to the gravel road, and a herd of elephants passing in front of the game drive vehicle on their own time!

Don't forget to stay tuned for more travel and tour adventures proudly hosted by Alan Tours!


📸 Alan Tours and their tour group had the time of their lives during their overnight stays at two of Kruger National Park's top camps

28/02/2025

🤩A SIGHT TO BEHOLD🌄

After a good night's rest, Alan, Angelika and our guide, Darrin-along with the tour group-hit the road and proceeded to Mpumalanga. This South African province is also referred to as "the place where the sun rises". After the start of a beautiful day, the group proceeded to the quaint town of Dullstroom, which is famous for trout and is served at several eateries in the area.

The group had delicious meals at the original Harry's Pancakes in Dullstroom, browsed the interesting curio shops and viewed the old red English telephone box and a postbox. The history of the classic telephone box dates back to the 1920s when English architect, Sir Giles Gilbert Scott, won a competition to design a standardized telephone kiosk. It still stands today in mint condition and contributes to the historical feel of Dullstroom.

That evening they stayed at their accommodation, which is situated on the Long Tom Pass, which forms part of the spectacular Panorama Route. The following day the group further explored the Panorama Route, which included stops at some of the best natural vantage points for sightseeing magnificent landscapes like God's Window and the Blyde River Canyon (the third largest canyon in the world), as well as several natural waterfalls.

They descended the escarpment through a narrow passage and winding passes and arrived at the hot tropical Lowveld characterised by tree species such as Marula, Silver-leafed Terminalia, Baobab and various Acacia trees. They had a good night's rest at their accommodation nestled on the banks of the Blyde River, a major contributor to Kruger’s water that flows into the Olifants River.

Can you guess where they're going next? Tell us in the comments!

👀 Keep your eyes peeled for more adventures!


📸 Alan Tours and their tour group explore the beauty of the famous Panorama Route

25/02/2025

🎞️Alan and Angelika of Alan Tours depart from the shores of the lovely Eastern Cape's coast to Kroonstad as part of their Ivory and Gold Safari Tour taking place over the next 10 days!

25/02/2025

👒1, 2, 3 and... Let's hit the road!🛣️

Alan and Angelika of Alan Tours recently departed from Port Elizabeth's outskirts to enjoy an 11-day tour of some of South Africa's best travel destinations with a group of 14 guests from Germany. The tour, known as the Kruger National Park Ivory and Gold Tour, will take them to the famous Big 5 Kruger National Park, the breathtaking Panorama Route, Swaziland and lastly, St. Lucia in the KwaZulu-Natal Province of South Africa.

This tour comes highly recommended and is the perfect mixture of beautiful landscapes, historical landmarks, wildlife and ocean vibes, a definite all-in-one!

The day of their early-morning departure this past weekend, they departed for Kroonstad, where a somewhat heavy rainfall greeted them. This did not prevent them from the exciting journey that lies ahead. Alan and Angelika also enjoyed the scenery of the Steynsburg in the Great Karoo.

Later, they stopped for a break at the large bridge at the Orange River border between Eastern Cape and Free State to soak in their natural surroundings and beautiful landscapes before proceeding to Johannesburg. On the way to the "City of Gold", they drove past sunflower crops complimenting the slightly cloudy blue sky.

After a day of travelling, Alan and Angelika enjoyed a delicious lunch at their night's accommodation with the rest of the guests before heading to bed in preparation for yet another exciting day of touring.

👀 Keep your eyes on this page to stay updated with Alan and Angelika's adventures in beautiful South Africa!

21/02/2025

🖼️FRAME IT🖼️
📸 Are these lions communicating or is it just a yawn? Two male lions were caught on camera while seemingly having a moment of "togetherness" as they walked next to each other in Addo Elephant National Park just outside Port Elizabeth, South Africa. Credit: Alan Tours

19/02/2025

🎉CELEBRATING 17 YEARS OF UNFORGETTABLE TOURS🎉

February, 17 years ago, Alan Tours began putting South Africa on the map and started offering guided tours around the country, especially in the Addo Elephant National Park, which is right on our doorstep! We will always hold the cultures and the landmarks of the historically rich Eastern Cape close to our hearts.

Want to go seek out the Big 5 in Kruger National Park? No problem. Interested in travelling along the renowned Garden Route? We've got you covered. Do you want to explore the Addo Elephant National Park and view some of the largest populations of majestic elephants? Look no further!

With more than 30 years spent working and touring in the African wilderness, Alan Fogarty embarked on his enterprise 17 years ago. He is a qualified level three F.G.A.S.A. [Field Guides Association of Southern Africa] Tour Guide with a deep interest in the country, its cultural heritage and historical value, not to mention all the wildlife he has seen (and even touched) over the years!

Alan Tours is now proud to offer more than a dozen guided tour categories with several options to locals and international guests alike. We are flexible when it comes to organising tours and can tailor-make itineraries to suit your travel needs and timeframe.

Alan Tours thanks all of our loyal guests who have travelled with us over the years, as well as newer guests who have explored the country with us for the first time!

Do you plan to visit South Africa? Do not hesitate to contact us for more information on our exciting tour options to make your holiday unforgettable!

📧 [email protected]
☎️ +27 41 378 1486
📱 +27 66 223 3197
🌐 www.alantours.co.za/contact-us/
⌨️ Message us directly

15/02/2025

🌀World Pangolin Day🌀

The pangolin, also known as the scaly anteater, is one of the most fascinating creatures on Earth. A mammal unlike any other, the pangolin is covered in dragon-like scales made of keratin. These scales are their main line of defence, as pangolins lack many other defences. When threatened, they curl into a tight ball, exposing their tough, armoured scales to predators while protecting their soft underbelly.

There are eight species of pangolin, found in either Africa or Asia. Along with their unique scales, pangolins have a long, thin snout and an even longer tongue, perfectly suited for feasting on ants and termites. Their claws are large and powerful, ideal for digging and tearing open the tough termite mounds to access those tasty treasures.

Although pangolins are not fast movers, they have an intriguing way of walking: they can move on all fours or balance on their hind legs, using their tails for counterbalance. This posture often resembles a priest or a holy man walking in reverence, hands clasped in front. Solitary and nocturnal, pangolins prefer to keep to themselves, quietly going about their business in the wild.

Sadly, despite their fascinating nature, pangolins hold the disturbing title of the most trafficked animal in the world. All eight species are now listed on the IUCN Red List, with populations rapidly declining. Their scales and claws are sought after for ornaments and traditional medicine, while they are also hunted for bushmeat. Many tribal leaders are stepping up, advocating for pangolin conservation and highlighting their vital role in the ecosystem.

In some cultures, pangolins are even seen as symbols of good luck and rain—things that are highly desired across much of Africa.

As we celebrate World Pangolin Day, let’s spread awareness about these incredible creatures and work together to protect them. Every action counts in the fight to end the illegal trade and ensure these species survive for generations to come.

15/02/2025

Seemingly harmless, several hippos enjoy the waters of Sunset Dam in Kruger National Park, South Africa. Wait until one opens its mouth for an impressive yawn! Hippos' tusks are not only used for consuming their food but also function to protect them from predators.
🎞️ Alan Fogarty

15/02/2025

🦛World Hippo Day🦛

The hippopotamus, more commonly known as the hippo, is one of Africa’s most recognisable and iconic creatures. As we celebrate World Hippo Day, it’s the perfect opportunity to appreciate these fascinating animals.

Hippos may seem odd at first glance, with their small eyes and ears perched on a massive, barrel-shaped body. Their large mouths, full of impressive tusks, and short, stocky legs give them a distinctive and somewhat comical appearance.

Despite their quirky features, hippos are among the most awe-inspiring animals. Their tusks which seem excessive for a herbivore, serve important functions. Hippos' tusks are their primary defence against predators. Male hippos engage in fierce battles with one another over territory.

Hippos love spending time in the water, yet they are unable to float or swim due to their dense bodies and heavy bones. Instead, they "walk" or "run" along the riverbed and can move as fast as up to 30 km/h over short distances.

Hippos are typically found in groups called "pods" and are often led by a dominant male as staying in groups gives them more protection. They also have complex communication, including grunts, wheezes, and bellows, which help them stay in touch with one another.

Sadly, hippos face growing threats from human activities. Habitat loss, poaching for their ivory tusks and meat, and conflicts with local communities are some of the many dangers for these majestic creatures.

Today and every day, it’s important to not only celebrate their unique characteristics but also reflect on the need to protect these incredible animals. Let’s work together and continue to spread awareness about hippo conservation efforts and protection, ensuring their continuation into the future for all to admire.


📸Hippos often wander through the village of St Lucia situated in South Africa's KwaZulu Natal province. There is even a traffic sign warning people to be careful as hippos constantly cross the road in this area!

14/02/2025

🖼️FRAME IT🖼️
📸 It was a rainy day for two Red Hartbeests, yet they slowly traversed their natural habitat at Addo Elephant National Park. Credit: Alan Fogarty

11/02/2025

🌍TOURS FOR TUESDAY: 🦈️Great White Shark Viewing and Shark Cage Diving, Port Elizabeth (Full-Day Tour)🐋
From R9,250.00 per person sharing

This is your chance to explore the underwater world of the Indian Ocean off the shores of Port Elizabeth! Feeling adventurous? Then this tour might be just what you are looking for. Enter the realm of the Great White Shark from the safety of the shark-viewing cage, and let them rattle your cage as you view these supreme predators in their own natural environment as they silently search for prey around Bird Island. At Bird Island, you will be able to view many Cape gannets as the island is home to the largest breeding colony of Cape gannets in the world! Return via St Croix Island on the way back after an exhilarating day of viewing sharks, seals, penguins, and so much more. Grab your partner and prepare to enjoy the marine safari of a lifetime!

⭐Tour includes:
✅Guided marine tour
✅Pick up and drop off at your place of residence in Port Elizabeth
✅Packed light lunch
✅Bottled water

Please bring along:
🌊 Packed breakfast
🌊 Warm, waterproofed jacket
🌊 Sun protection and a hat

*Kindly note that a minimum of two persons are required for this excursion. A single supplement will apply to individual travellers. Group rates can be requested. Please note that some marine species, like Humpback Whales and Great White Sharks, only visit our shores during certain seasons. We've got our ears on the ground for updates on the best possible sighting opportunities, and you are welcome to contact us regarding the best times for booking this excursion.*

MORE TOUR DETAILS👉 https://bit.ly/4gCz4R6

Interested? Do not hesitate to contact us for more information:
📧 [email protected]
☎️ +27 41 378 1486
📱 +27 66 223 3197 (call or enquire via WhatsApp)
🌐 www.alantours.co.za/contact-us
⌨️ Message us directly


📸 Alan Tours guests enjoy the Great White Shark viewing and shark cage diving marine safari tour

10/02/2025

💫5 STARS💫 "Every Aspect of Our Journey Was Such a Pleasure"

One of our knowledgeable guides, Anthony, conducted a tour with Chip and his five companions whose cruise ship docked at Port Elizabeth's shores in January.

They were taken on a tour of South Africa's renowned Addo Elephant National Park with more than 600 free-roaming elephants. The group saw many herds of these gentle giants, some with babies enjoying a muddy bath in a waterhole.

Chip and his fellow guests spotted a migrant European roller and a scarce parrot-beaked tortoise, buffalo, ostriches, Kudus, red hartebeests, warthogs and many other interesting birds, reptiles and insects such as the flightless dung beetles with their balls of elephant poo.

"With pick up and return to our NCL ship, this day at Addo was beyond anything we could have imagined! Every aspect of our journey was such a pleasure as we were able to see the beauty of the animals in their natural environment through the lens of such a learned, empathetic guide.

"The details were all perfect with zero complaints heard! Also, we'd booked this trip five years ago and the deposit credit was carried forward. Class act all the way!" - Chip.


📸Wildlife at Addo Elephant National Park

07/02/2025

🌍G20 Summit – Welcome Home👋

South Africa is making history as the first African country to host the prestigious G20 South Africa Summit, and we would like to extend our most heartfelt welcome to all the attendees who will be visiting us in November. It’s not just any old welcome, it’s “Welcome Home”. This land we know as South Africa, right on the tip of the Mother Continent, is home to the Bushman people, the earliest inhabitants of Africa.

As the "Rainbow Nation," a term coined by Archbishop Emeritus and Nobel Peace Laureate Desmond Tutu, South Africa offers a rich mosaic of culture, heritage, and breathtaking natural beauty. From the iconic Table Mountain to the wildlife-packed Kruger National Park, this country is a true celebration of diversity. South Africa is home to nine different habitats, each with its own plants and animals that cannot be found anywhere else in the world, making it a prime destination.

Whether you are drawn to vibrant city life, breathtaking landscapes, unforgettable wildlife encounters, or the warmth of its people, South Africa has something for everyone. This year’s themes are Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability along with the ever-present philosophy of Ubuntu, which teaches us that we are all interconnected. These values come to life in the very spirit of South Africa. Make South Africa your next travel destination and let us show you how these themes truly come alive. You won’t regret it.

At Alan Tours, we are immensely proud to support the G20 Leaders’ Summit 2025 and invite you to experience this magnificent country with us. Our registered, professional tour guides will take you on an authentic adventure through South Africa’s wonders, where every moment promises something new, exciting, and extraordinary. Join us as we celebrate the beauty, heritage, and people of this remarkable land.


🎞️G20 SOUTH AFRICA 2025 YouTube

South Africa is President of the Group of Twenty (G20) from 01 December 2024 -30 November 2025. "Solidarity, Equality, Sustainability". ...

07/02/2025

🖼️FRAME IT🖼️
📸 Alan Tours captured two zebras having a go at each other in Addo Elephant National Park in South Africa's Eastern Cape Province. Although zebras are social animals who live in groups to protect each other, territorial fights are not uncommon. This happens when the zebra feels threatened in any way. One of the most popular wildlife species to view in Africa, zebras each have their own set of unique stripes, like humans have different fingerprints.

05/02/2025

👀WHAT A SIGHTING!
A curious crocodile follows a turtle moving out of the dam onto land following heavy rains in the Kruger area! Friend or foe? You decide!🐊🐢
🎞️Credit: Hayley Myburgh

04/02/2025

✨A First for Africa🌍

The G20 South Africa Leaders’ Summit is just around the corner (22-23 November 2025), and South Africa will be the first African country to host this prestigious event!

So, what is the G20 summit all about? It’s an annual global gathering where world leaders unite to address key economic and financial issues, focusing on climate change, financial stability, and sustainable development. This year’s theme is ‘Solidarity, Equality and Sustainability’.

Alan Tours, along with the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association (SATSA) and the Tourism Grading Council of South Africa (TGCSA), fully supports South African Tourism and is excited about the incredible opportunity to showcase the very best of South Africa during this momentous occasion.

To kick things off, there will be an opportunity for free grading of your establishment with the TGCSA in February. The launch event is happening in Cape Town on February 5th, but don’t worry if you can’t make it–there are two more opportunities! The campaign will also be hosted in Johannesburg on February 7th and Dullstroom on February 17th.

Let’s come together to promote South Africa as a top-tier destination and prepare to impress global visitors during the G20 Summit!

04/02/2025

🌍TOURS FOR TUESDAY: ❤️Addo Elephant National Park and Sunset River Cruise (Full Day Tour)❤️
From R2,950.00 per person sharing

The month of love is here! Why not treat that special someone to an exciting day tour to Addo Elephant National Park to view the large herds of elephants and other iconic wildlife species? What's more? After visiting the Park, prepared to be whisked away to Sundays River, where you will be taken on a river cruise as the sun sets to round of a wonderful tour!

⭐Tour includes:
✅Professional guided tour
✅Bottled water in the tour vehicle
✅Entrance/conservation fee
✅Boat cruise

*Lunch is for own guests' account. Kindly note that a minimum 2 persons are required for the excursion to Addo Elephant National Park, and a minimum of 4 persons is required by the boat operator to conduct the river cruise. Group rates can be requested.

Interested? Do not hesitate to contact us for more information:
📧 [email protected]
☎️ +27 41 378 1486
📱 +27 66 223 3197
🌐 www.alantours.co.za/contact-us/
⌨️ Message us directly

03/02/2025

📰THE NEWS CORNER: 🎬SOUTH AFRICAN SHORT FILM NOMINATED FOR 2025 OSCAR AWARDS

"The Last Ranger", an isiXhosa short film shot in South Africa's Eastern Cape province, has recently been nominated among a handful of other films for an Academy Award for Best Short Film (Live Action) by Kindred Films at its 97th awards ceremony in March this year.

This nomination makes us extremely proud as it's produced so close to home and promises a deeper look into the conservation and protection of wildlife. Directed by Cindy Lee, this story-rich film focuses on the anti-poaching efforts to safeguard our precious and critically endangered rhinos.

The film tells the story of a rhino called Thandi and how she miraculously survived a violent poaching attack at a local game reserve in the province. The main cast consists of Avumile Qongqo, Liyabona Mroqoza and Makhaola Ndebele and the film depicts the bravery and determination of those fighting to protect South Africa's wildlife against dangers such as poaching.

South Africa's Minister of Forestry, Fisheries, and the Environment, Dr Dion George, congratulated the film's creators on the prestigious nomination. "I wish to congratulate the team behind this important body of work on choosing to highlight the plight of our rangers, a community of real-life heroes who are often overlooked.

"I believe that this film helps tell our rangers’ story and as a result of this nomination, rangers will garner more local and international support for their work," Dr George says in an online statement by the department.

Haven't watched the film yet? Check out the preview trailer here👉
https://bit.ly/3Q106a5

When young Litha is introduced to the magic of a game reserve by the last remaining ranger, they are ambushed by poachers. In the ensuing battle to save the rhinos, Litha discovers a terrible secret.