Service Learning in Stellenbosch: Cultural Excursion

Swellendam Mountains tour (3 days)

Included in program fee

Early departure with a stop for photographs at a lookout point situated on Sir Lowry’s Pass overlooking False Bay and with a splendid view all the way to Table Mountain. Continue to Swellendam and on to the basecamp, situated next to Buffeljachts Dam, with a breathtaking view over the dam and Marloth Nature Reserve. Lunch and free afternoon before settling down around a fire to enjoy a traditional South African braai (barbeque) with all the trimmings.

The next day, take a two-hour nature hike to a waterfall in the Marloth Nature Reserve and after a relaxing time swimming return to the boat for lunch. Take a walk to what is regarded as one of the highest and longest ‘foofie slides’ (zip line) in the country! Sunset cruise around the dam before returning to accommodation for another roaring fire and dinner.

On the third day, return to Stellenbosch via the lookout point of Tradouws Pass, built by Sir Thomas Bain in 1873. On to the famous Route 62 with majestic mountains, scenic passes, rivers, vineyards and orchards offering an unforgettable scenic adventure along the longest wine route in South Africa. Stop at Montague hot springs and enjoy a refreshing warm swim while a picnic lunch is prepared. Continue down Route 62 with a stop at one of the fine wine farms situated in the area. Early evening arrival in Stellenbosch.

Accommodations, transportation, breakfasts, lunches and dinners (as specified) and entrance fees as indicated are included in the fee.

Garden Route (6 days)

Included in program fee

There is much to experience on the Garden Route, including swimming in natural hot springs or walking along the highest hanging bridge in the Southern Hemisphere. The Garden Route boasts unspoiled stretches of rocky coast, mountains covered by indigenous forests, beaches, amber-colored rivers and chains of lakes. At the Knysna Elephant Park, students can join the elephants, who live in a free-range environment, for a unique and exclusive walk, touch them and even feed them.

Day 1 – Depart Stellenbosch and join the world-famous whale route in Gordons Bay for a stunning drive along the picturesque R44 mountain pass overlooking False Bay to the vibrant coastal town of Hermanus. Continue to the southernmost tip of Africa in Cape Agulhas National Park before embarking on an exciting sundowner ski-boat cruise off Die Plaat, the longest beach in the Southern Hemisphere.

Day 2 – Head north through rolling wheatfields to Swellendam and enter the little Karoo through the beautiful Tradouws Pass. On towards the Warmwaterberg Spa and Hot Springs where students will enjoy lunch while taking a relaxing swim in the °F natural hot springs.

Day 3 – Morning departure from the Karoo over the magnificent Outeniqua Pass to the green coastal belt of the Garden Route. Students visit Knysna, rated South Africa’s most beautiful town, before embarking on a 2-hour ferryboat cruise on the lagoon. After the cruise, students visit Tsitsikamma National Park and take a short 2km hike through dense indigenous forest before walking across the longest hanging bridge in the Southern Hemisphere.

Day 4 – After breakfast, students start the day with a visit to the Crags Orphaned Elephant Sanctuary for a truly wonderful close encounter wildlife experience. While half of the group is with the elephants the other half will be “taking a walk on the wildside” on a guided tour of the Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary. Return to accommodation for traditional South African braai (barbeque) at sunset.

Day 5 – Morning departure for Plettenberg Bay, a vibrant holiday town renowned for its superb beaches. Time to explore the town and beach, do some shopping or go sea kayaking. After lunch, continue on to Mossel Bay, where Europeans first set foot on South African soil in 1488.

Day 6 – After lunch on the road and a scenic drive via historic Swellendam and over the mountains of Sir Lowry’s Pass, students head to Cape Town airport. Departure to U.S.

Accommodations, transportation, breakfasts, dinners, sightseeing, professional guide and entrance fees as indicated are included in the fee. Lunch is not included.

Dates and itinerary for both excursions may be subject to minor changes.