Experience The Wilderness Next Vacation

By Lloyd Leach


Many vacationers think a holiday should include carnivals, boardwalks lined with souvenir shops and game arcades, or casinos. Others like hiking along mountain trails, backpacking into remote places, or scaling the highest mountain they can climb. Those who would rather see nature up close and personal without undue exertion or danger, and who prize peace and quiet, should experience the Wilderness on the Cape of South Africa.


South Africa is one of the most beautiful places on earth. This massive country has many different types of terrain, with flora and fauna to match. The Wilderness lies in the foothills of the Outeniqua Mountains, right on the Touw Lagoon, where the Touw River empties into the ocean. Its vast expanses of white sand beaches and its quiet inland waters are perfect for those who love water sports of all kinds.

There are lots of activities, all centered around the scenic beauty and natural resources of this area. Guests fish, boat, water-ski, and lounge on the beach. They hike, mountain bike, hang glide, go horseback riding, and climb to the heights to spot whales and dolphins. Attractions include the Garden Route Botanical Garden, which features regional plants of interest for their beauty or their healing properties. This ecosystem is unique, relatively small, and very fragile.

The South Africans are carefully preserving the region today, managing timbering and protecting endangered species. The oceans are a summer and fall home for many species of whales. The hills and forests teem with gorgeous flowers like fynbos and a treasure trove of medicinal plants, and animals like bushbucks and duikers may be seen.

The climate is mild, with moderate temperature fluctuations year round. Temperatures seldom go below 10 degrees Celsius (about 50 degrees Fahrenheit) and 28 degrees C (85 degree F). There is ample rainfall but lots of sunny days to enjoy the beaches and the manky outside activities. The town faces the ocean and is backed by cliffs that are topped by the Knysna Forest.

The town exists to give tourists a memorable experience, one which will make them want to return again and again. It also hopes to raise awareness about the value of the ecosystem of the area and the need to preserve it. The sheltered nature of the Southern Cape makes even the ocean peaceful. The natural beauty and diversity of flora and fauna await visitors on every turn.

This resort town has annual events. However, they are not the usual tourist attractions like carnivals or Taste of the Town community-wide festivals. Here, people eagerly await the April plant sale and the fall Wildflower Show. Many species of whale can be seen off the coast from June to November. People go to Dolphin's Point and other high overlooks to spot whales and dolphins.

Go online to learn more about this little bit of paradise at the tip of the African continent. It all started with a stone boardinghouse in the late 1800s. Today the Wilderness is still noted for its hospitality and its unique beauty. For an unforgettable glimpse of Africa's Afromontane area, visit this quiet, beautiful, and important natural treasure.




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