TAKE AN exciting journey through South Africa, giving back to local communities and organisations while minimising your carbon footprint
Franschhoek Valley, Cape Winelands
Great Safaris, an award-winning luxury safari outfitter, has just debuted its first ever ‘green’ tour for 2015 travel. If you are an eco-conscious traveller or want to start doing your part to protect the natural world, you will love the new Good Earth South Africa Safari itinerary. This 12-day tour takes guests on a socially responsible adventure across the beautiful South African terrain, while keeping each traveller’s carbon footprint to a minimum. In addition, a portion of the proceeds from every person booked will be donated to a charity of the traveller’s choice. Guests will receive the best safari experience possible, getting the opportunity to give back to local communities, gain knowledge about local issues, as well as explore diverse ecosystems in search of the most majestic creatures on earth.
Cycling in the Franschhoek Valley
Begin your journey with a ‘carbon neutral’ hop-on, hop-off bus tour of Cape Town to investigate the glorious city. Discover the Malay Quarter, wander through the city centre gardens, visit the historic Castle of Good Hope, then ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for a stunning panoramic view. On day three, choose to take a tour of the Cape Winelands or join a ‘carbon negative’ biking tour through the Valley. Either way, you will enjoy a fabulous lunch at the socially responsible La Motte Restaurant and Winery. Then head to the Cheetah Outreach Center for an opportunity to learn about these incredible animals and Africa’s oldest felines.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Ride along the coast to the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, a five-star eco paradise showcasing extraordinary flora and marine life on the southern tip of Africa. Plant a tree to support the rehabilitation of the ancient Milkwood forests, then set out on a boating safari to see the Big Marine 5 – whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins. Grootbos offers other eco adventures including horseback riding, bird watching and nature walks.
The pride
Wing your way to Johannesburg where, in collaboration with Pack for a Purpose, you will bring much needed supplies to people in the local community. Then spend your last few days in Kruger National Park, setting off on thrilling game drives in search of endemic wildlife. Spend your nights at the eco-conscious Hamiltons Tented Camp, which is completely run by solar energy and supports the surrounding community.
Vineyard Hotel & Spa, Cape Town
A portion of the proceeds from every booking will be donated to one of the many organisations helping to conserve and restore South Africa’s natural world. Guests will be able to select one of these three groups to receive their monetary gift: give to the community through Grootbos Foundation; support wildlife rehabilitation with Cheetah Outreach; restore the environment and create healthy ecosystems with Trees for Tourism.
- For more information on the Good Earth Safari and other Great Safaris’ tours, visit www.goodearthsafaris.com or call a safari expert at 800 409 7755
For travellers who have a little more time, Great Safaris offers a dizzying variety of pre- and post-travel extension options in Southern Africa, Eastern Africa, Egypt and now in Abu Dhabi. These options are from some of the company’s most popular tours and can be added to most itineraries. Visit www.greatsafaris.com/pre-and-post-extensions.php for more details.
About Great Safaris: The award-winning luxury African safari outfitter offers the convenience of a US booking office coupled with seven fully staffed, on-site offices in Africa. Destinations include Botswana, Egypt, Jordan, Kenya, Uganda, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Rwanda, the Seychelles, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. For more information visit Great Safaris’ website at www.greatsafaris.com
