Spent a great week walking in Sierra de Aitana. The walks were challenging but well worth the effort. The views from the summits were spectacular. Jose was a great guide and as he was local he was so knowledgeable about the area and passionate about his country. He made us lovely sandwiches for lunch and we also had pasta one day. Jose’s mother made little cotton lunch bags for us to use for the week – a nice touch. The accommodation was more than I expected – clean, good breakfasts and a lovely 3 course meal with wine in the evening. The drinks are very reasonably priced. There was a room set aside for Exodus and coffee, tea, milk and biscuits were provided. Raquel and Pepe who ran the hostel were a joy! Jose’s dog Bobi joined us on our last 2 walks. So friendly and well behaved. It was also nice to meet Sara.
Walking Holidays in South Africa
South Africa Walking Holidays
Top 5 Wildlife Experiences on Walking Holidays South Africa
Game Drive in Kruger National Park: One of the most famous and oldest wildlife parks on earth, Kruger National Park was founded in 1898 by Paul Kruger, the South African president of the time. As you embark on a game drive through Kruger, you’ll have the opportunity to see awesome animals in their natural environment. With the likes of giraffe, hippo, lions and leopards occupying the plains, this is one of the greatest wildlife adventures you’ll ever experience. Setting off early in the morning will optimise your chances of spotting more game and watching the sun rise over the park is simply breath-taking.
Walk in Royal Natal National Park: Home to some of the most impressive mountain scenery in South Africa, Royal Natal National Park is a great place to explore on foot. Spanning an incredible 5km, the world-famous natural Amphitheatre is one of the most notable sights of the park alongside the Drakensberg escarpment which forms the border between Lesotho and Kwa-Zulu Natal. There are various hiking routes in the Royal Natal National Park with some leading you among ancient bushmen paintings and the incredibly beautiful Fairy Glen.
Hike to Tugela Falls: Laying claim to being the second tallest waterfall in the world, Tugela Falls is a phenomenal sight that thunders down the rugged sides of the Drakensberg Mountains. You can begin the hike from Sentinel Gate and make your way along the side of the mountains. Look out for the endemic mountain baboon or the bearded vultures en route. Climbing up the ladders to the dizzying summit of Tugela Falls presents you with 360-degree panoramas of the Amphitheatre and the surrounding landscapes.
Walking in Malolotja Nature Reserve: Covering 18,000 hectares of mountain wilderness, Malolotja Nature Reserve is one of the most impressive natural parks in South Africa. The diverse ecosystem is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna which can be seen on one of the many walking trails through the reserve. An incredible 280 bird species as well as antelope can be found throughout Malolotja. To the east of the reserve is the Malolotja River which flows over several waterfalls, including the Malolotja Falls, the highest in Swaziland, before reaching the Nkomati River. From Malolotja Falls there are uninterrupted views over the valleys and gorges.
Game Walk at Letaba Ranch Game Reserve: Spanning 42,000 hectares and making up part of the Greater Kruger National Park, Letaba Ranch Game Reserve is home to buffalos, wild dogs and elephants as well as other species of wildlife. Along the Letaba River you might spot crocodiles and hippos sheltering in the water and if you’re lucky, the elusive leopard may even make an appearance. A local guide will lead you to many of the best game viewing locations in the reserve as you track the movement of the animals.
Susan Houston Sierra de Aitana Trek
Ian Lochhead Walking the Picos de EuropaAnother superb Exodus adventure. An excellent and varied walk program. The Hotel Torrecerredo was of a very high standard with delicious meals provided each day. The owners Jim & Pilar were brilliant hosts too. Special mention also to Adolfo-brilliant character! We had a small group of 8 and we all got on really well right from the start.
Sylvia Meldrum Sierra de Aitana TrekJust back from doing this tour. The walks are arduous at times but they’re well worth it as the scenery is fantastic. The accommodation was good with clean rooms and good home cooking.
Our guide Jose was local and he was knowledgeable in all aspects of the terrain, history and agricultural status, he also makes great sandwiches! The group also benefited from pick ups and drop offs on our free day from Jose and lots of suggestions regarding what to do.
If there was a problem it was the mosquitos….make sure you take repellents as they will eat you alive!
Can’t not mention Bobi (the dog) and Sara who also did some of the pick ups and drop offs, thank you both.
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