baviaanskloof 4x4 tours

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Baviaanskloof

If you want a really adventurous trip, with a tough drive and gorgeous scenery in wild untamed beautiful surroundings, try our Baviaanskloof weekender trip. This tour is best undertaken with our experienced tour operator who is also a qualified mechanic, and trained in first aid, with much experience navigating through challenging terrain. The route to follow is complex at best and one can easily get lost just trying to get there. From Heroncliff where the tar road ends the road is 168 km with only two petrol points…. then the gravel road turns north into the mountains, following the course of the Groot River sandwiched against cliffs. Passing the Goede Hoop Church settlement, the road crosses and recrosses the Wit River, passes the Cockscomb Forest Station and ascends a steep mountain pass, arriving on a broad escarpment. As we continue westwards, the road descends to the Bukkraal River, only 170 m above sea level, then dips into a meshwork of rolling hills. The road meanders through the hills, clinging to the edge of sheer drops as it rises for 7 km from the valley, up the main Baviaanskloof Pass. Driving cautiously is essential, even as the avid 4×4 Adventurer will thrill at this exhilarating experience. The drive continues through Coleskeplaas past the end of the tar road and the kloof starts to open out, where the road runs along the river. On both sides are the mountain peaks, seldom less than 300 m and often more than 700 m above the river. 20 km further along is Kleinpoort and then another 5 km the police post at Studtis where the Baviaanskloof Forest Reserve is situated.

Beyond Studtis the river gorge narrows and the road winds between tall peaks to Beacon’s Nek, where the kloof widens into the Verloren River Valley. Another 28 km brings you to the foot of the third and last pass, Nuwekloof. Although the pass is only 3 km…. The scenery is majestic, with steep krantzes flanking the narrow kloof and emerges onto the Karoo with a drive of 33 km to Willowmore.

You Will Need:

4×4 Vehicle, Camping equipment and your own beverages. If it is a cross border 4×4 tour then you will also need: passports for all in your party, ID documents, drivers license, insurance consent letter, bank consent letter, third party insurance (for most countries), and if needed – malaria tablets. Please also consult with your General Practitioner and advise them of the country you will be visiting, and follow the necessary malaria precautions and take all necessary medications. Please note that each country has different malaria precautions, some require you have the injections and others that you take the tablets etc.

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Sebata 4x4 Adventures 

Guided Self Drive Tours

Mountain  Dream Tour

Join us for this 8 day fun-filled journey of adventure, discovery, history and pass-driving as we take on the Baviaans mountains with their uniquely spectacular vistas. Unlock the thrill of navigating through challenging terrain and exploring new places. This tour offers a sense of freedom and escape from the routine of daily life, allowing us to experience the great outdoors in a unique way.

We'll travel some fantastic off-the-beaten-path routes, cross impressive mountain passes, meander through verdant woods, and see some incredible animals!

Tour text information 

The Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area starts about 90km of Port Elizabeth, and it has long been considered a region of exceptional beauty. The area, which includes the Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve, is a strong drawcard for off-road travellers whising to immerse themselves in a mountain wilderness.

The Word Baviaanskloof, although derived from the Dutch “valley of baboons”, is associated with pristine nature, narrow gorges with flowing streams, steep mountain passes, vast plains with waving grasslands and views of unspoilt wilderness. Nature has taken its course over thousands of years to create what is today universally recognised as the Baviaanskloof World Heritage Site.

Our adventure kicks off in Knysna, where we will camp for the first evening and get to know each other a bit more. This is for sure the start of a great adventure, as we begin the next day exploring the hidden gems along the seven passes. Our campsite offers an abundance of activities for a nature lover. Tucked away between the Outenique and Tsitsikamma mountains this rustic bush camp next to a dam will give you a total sense of freedom. This is a fantastic and naturally beautiful place.

The next morning we leave this special place and stop at a coffee shop for some “moerse lekker” carrot cake and suveniours. We head north on the beautiful and challenging part of the pass, where every turn has a name… We take the back roads to the Baviaans. We will setup camp and explore our new surroundings. 

As we venture deeper into the Baviaans over the next two days, we will endure some of the greatest passes Baviaans has to offer, while camping at different sites, providing the ultimate wilderness experience.

Our last two days will be spent exploring the Addo National Park and it’s wildlife scenaries.

Thousands of spectacular views of the valleys and other breathtaking natural features will be seen by you on this journey.

Our routes, rich in information, history, and folklore, will provide a once-in-a-lifetime 4x4 experience.

Tour Price Includes

Camping Fees

Park Entry Fees if camping in a park

Conservation Fees

Morning Coffee with rusks

2 Bags of wood per night

Two-way radios for in-vehicle-communication

Experienced Guide & Advanced 4x4 Driving Instructor

First Aider

Tour Price Excludes

4x4 Vehicle Hire

Daily Activities

Recovery Gear

Park Entry Fees of parks where we do not camp.

Frequently asked questions   

Where does the tour start and end?

START – Knysna

END – Addo National Park

Total Kilometers of tour:

Vehicle Requirements:

4x4 with good ground clearance.

Equipped with standard tires.

Fuel range of approx. 500km.

Fuel is readily available, advisable to carry extra fuel.

Features accessible recovery points, securely attached to the chassis.

Trailers / Caravans:

Camping Trailers & Offroad Caravans.

Accommodation:

Own camping equipment is required.

Fridge/Freezer and cooking/braai accessories.

Ground tents / Rooftop tents welcome.

Some campsites may lack comprehensive ablution facilities, so it is essential to be self-sufficient in these situations.

Pyramid, Pretoria Gauteng 0120

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• Self Catering
• 041 000 1585
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• Photography
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• Mountain Biking
• Boating / Canoeing / Diving
• 042 296 2950
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• Baviaanskloof,
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Welcome to Gamtoos Tourism

Information Office - Tolbos

Telephone : 042 283 0437

E-Mail: [email protected]

Komdomo Office

Telephone : 087 28 66 494/5

Eastern Cape Parks & Tourism Agency Baviaanskloof Mega Reserve Bookings

Telephone : 043 705 4400

Quick Links

Accommodation in the Gamtoos Valley

Things to do In the Gamtoos Valley

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Rus & Vrede Farm

Baviaanskloof, Willowmore

[email protected]

Our response on email enquiries are slower than WhatsApp.

073 232 8932

Please send WhatsApp - if no response Call or Email

Baviaanskloof 4×4 and Accommodation

Situated on the farm Rus en Vrede in the heart of the Baviaanskloof it is the ideal destination for City dwellers looking to getting away from City life.

We are also at the start (or end) of the well known 4×4 route linking the Baviaanskloof to Kareedouw in the Langkloof.

We offer self catering accommodation in a fully equiped farm house  at Joachims Kraal and for those who prefer a more rustic option, there are the Clay Cottages. 

Please follow the links below to read more about what is on offer.

Rus & Vrede 4x4

The Rus & Vrede trail, about 78 kilometers in length with a grading of 2, winds its way from the Baviaanskloof down to Kareedouw.

Joachimskraal

Joachimskraal is a comfortable and spacious farm house, fully equipped to accommodate up to twelve people.

Clay Cottages

Three quaint cottages built of wood and clay in the traditional style of the old farm dwellers.

Baviaanskloof 4×4 and Accommodation | Resources

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WhatsApp - Preferred Contact Method

DORINGKLOOF

4x4 & bushcamp, 071 492 3470.

Please see contact details below if no answer.

[email protected]

Doringkloof - baviaanskloof bushcamp and 4×4.

Here, in the heart of the Baviaanskloof, Doringkloof offers various accommodation options and recreational activities. Our accommodation options include a shady grassed Bush Camp and 4 self catering Chalets.

Please follow the links to read more about what Doringkloof in the Baviaanskloof has to offer.

We also have 4 4×4 routes with varying difficulty levels and all with awesome views of the Baviaanskloof and Kouga Mountains and Valleys.

Please note that telephone lines in the area are not reliable and the best way to book is via email.

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Baviaanskloof - UNESCO World Heritage Site - South Africa 

Latitude: -33.54405 South - Longitude: 23.98569 East

4x4 Trails of the Baviaanskloof & Kouga Mountains

Kamerkloof is ideally located near a few very well-known 4X4 trails in the Baviaanskloof. Kamerkloof highly recommends these 4X4 trails which are also well known within the 4x4 community. The start of these recommended trails are a fifteen minute drive from Kamerkloof:

Doringkloof 4x4 Trails

Doringkloof offers five different 4x4 trails in the Baviaanskloof and Kouga mountains. The best known of these is probably the Kouga Mountains route between the Langkloof near Kareedouw to the Rus en Vrede Farm of the Lamprechts in the Baviaanskloof. The longest trail, about 78 kilometres in length and has a grading of 2, winds its way from the Baviaanskloof valley right up the Kouga mountain range, past Graskop to the summit and then down to Kareedouw in the Langkloof. En route one will see a rich variety of vegetation including cycads that are hundreds of years old. Much of the scenery is simply breath-taking. Although not a particularly difficult 4x4 trail, some parts are sufficiently demanding to make it interesting. Three other trails, ranging from 5-10 kilometres, also climb up the Kouga range and back. The difficulty rating is 2-4. The other trail, Bosrug, approximately 8kms in length, goes up the Baviaanskloof Mountains towards Steytlerville. On this trail, which is not for the faint hearted, you will experience breath-taking views. This route is a return route. There is no need to book, however please inform Chris or Barend at Rus-en-Vrede.

Rus en Vrede - Graskop Baviaanskloof - Kareedouw 78Km - Grade 3 - R100 per vehicle / R10 per person

GPS Co-Ordinates and Altitude

Baviaanskloof Turnoff S33 34.236 E24 06.592 404 m

Bush Camp S33 34.357 E24 05.280 424 m

Highest Point S33 41 620 E24 08.786 1 110 m

Kareedouw Turnoff(Assegaaibos) S33 56.692 E24 18.969 212 m

Uitslag 4x4 Trails

The Uitslag 4x4 grade 2 route will take you to the top of the southern mountain range. You can drive on for about 8km and you have to return by the same route.

R80 per vehicle for visitors

Kamerkloof Tip: Enquire about the circular 36km Beakosnek Trail before your arrival at Kamerkloof

Groot Rivier crossing during a flood

Holgat Pass- Baviaanskloof Reserve

Combrinks Pass- Baviaanskloof Reserve

Smitskraal river crossing

Baviaanskloof Accommodation - Baviaanskloof Nature Reserve

The Baviaanskloof – Like Never Before 4 x 4 Adventure Code (OV31) – A 3 Day Tour

Baviaanskloof 4 x 4 route and surrounding areas, the baviaanskloof wilderness area is a vast expanse of rugged terrain encompassing ranges of tall mountains and steep sided valleys bisected and criss crossed by sometimes wild rivers and streams that are mostly quiet and calm., the baviaanskloof is a place of endless change. we come across a peaceful glade near the river where under the canopy of the sweet thorn acacias, a troop of baboons rest after a day of foraging while a bushbuck ewe and her young fawn browse peacefully nearby. overhead the strident call of the african fish eagle. a tiny chameleon might reveal itself clinging to a flower stalk or the crashing of the under growth might herald a herd of buffalo making off into the thickets..

2 persons on tour:  R 10 850.00 per person sharing

3-4 persons on tour: R 8 250.00 per person sharing

5-6 persons on tour: R 5 700.00 per person sharing

Minimum 2 persons

Tour includes:

3 day professional guided tour 2 night accommodation as per itinerary 4×4 safari vehicle, fuel Entrance/conservation fees 4×4 route fees Meals as per itinerary Bottled water in the tour vehicle

Day 1, Night 1

Port Elizabeth to Baviaanskloof

Meet and greet by Alan Tours at your place of residence in Port Elizabeth before our departure for the Baviaanskloof, a World Heritage Site.

Here we travel through the agricultural centers of Hankey and Patensie with its neatly maintained citrus and vegetable farms on either side of the Gamtoos river. We continue to the entrance of the Baviaanskloof Mega-reserve where on arrival we check in at the reception, take a comfort break and enjoy a cup of coffee at the comfortable picnic site.

After check in we continue through the imposing cliffs that line the riverbanks in this picturesque part of the Baviaanskloof. 

We travel in a westerly direction deeper into the Baviaanskloof valley, entering the wilderness section of the reserve where we do a final check in as we enter the reserve itself.

Here the road is shaded by large trees as we cross the clear waters of the river. If the weather is good, we park in the shade, take our shoes off and wade through these cool, clear waters as a ceremonial cleansing ritual. Refreshed we continue into the valley of the Baboons.

We make our way out of the shade of the valley floor up onto steep passes as we move through this Rift Valley climbing up and descending once again only to climb back up again.

The views of the surrounding mountains and valleys from the top of the passes is spectacular with views over wide portions of the valley in places.

We take photographs along the way and stop at selected spots on the road for a picnic and a swim in the deep river pools when the weather is good.

After traversing the wilderness area, we keep a keen eye open for the bird and wildlife which includes Cape Buffalo, Kudu, the rare Mountain Zebra, Bushbuck and Red Hartebeest as well as the secretive Leopard, the endangered Black Rhino and of course the many Baboons that call this valley their home and who in turn have bequeathed their name to this mythical valley, “The Baviaanskloof”, the “Valley of the Baboons”.

Completing the memorable journey through the wilderness area, we make our way to our overnight Farm style accommodation, or similar. After check in we make ourselves comfortable before meeting for a traditional farm dinner.

After dinner we make our way to bed for a comfortable night’s rest under the clear, star encrusted night sky.

Overnight Baviaanskloof accommodation, picnic lunch, dinner, bed and breakfast

Day 2, Night 2

Baviaanskloof

We wake early for a fresh cup of coffee and rusks, a traditional oven dried bread roll, and do a bit of exploring before returning for a welcome breakfast.

After breakfast we set out to explore the Kloof as it is locally known. We visit a beautiful grove of Wild fig trees that proliferate around an up-welling of crystal clear water said to have its origins a few hundred kilometers away in the Great Karoo. Here, with a permanent supply of pure water, the fig trees grow huge and thrive in these fertile soils, bearing large quantities of edible fruit, a bonanza for both the bird and wildlife in this predominantly arid area.

From here we make our way to explore a wonderfully deep gorge no more than a meter or two wide in some places where a small stream has sliced its way through the mountain rock over eons to form a level rock strewn bed through which we walk. We pass large rock pools where one is welcome to take a refreshing swim deep within the mountain. Here we might have a chance of visiting a honey farm and see how honey is made but this will depend on if the farmer is at home to show us around.

After the gorge we make our way through the now widening valley to have lunch at a special little restaurant run by a family of small stock farmers where the lady of the house has created an idyllic garden in which to sit and order a light lunch of toasted sandwiches on simple homemade bread. A real country kitchen in the very heart of the valley.

After some time spent exploring the valley, we return to our overnight accommodation to relax and soak up the peace and quiet of the remote working farm as we prepare for our evening meal. Crack open a drink and enjoy the peace and solitude of the Baviaanskloof as the traditional braai (Barbecue) slowly cooks on the coals of the open wood fire.

After a delicious meal we sit around the fire recollecting the stories of the day before making make our way to bed for a comfortable night’s rest.

Baviaanskloof to Port Elizabeth

We wake for a cup of coffee and breakfast before we pack up and check out of our accommodation and prepare for our return trip via a spectacular and rugged 4 x 4 route up and over the mountains before dropping down the other side, onto the southern slopes of this huge wilderness area

This is a spectacular route over the mountains and the rough winding road, which at times seems to carry on forever. Where around almost every corner there is a picture perfect scene, or landscape, animal, or bird to stop you in your tracks. It is almost impossible for a camera to capture the sheer expanse of the scenery, shaded mountains, layered into the distance, cut with deep valleys for as far as the eye can see.

We bring a picnic lunch along with us and stop at a convenient spot to rest and take our lunch break.

With 7 biomes converging in one area, the Baviaanskloof / Kouga wilderness area has a wealth of plant diversity, simply bundled together as Fynbos where such diversity is difficult to compare with anything else in the world.

It is for this reason that the area has been declared as a World Heritage Site and afforded the protection necessary to maintain its integrity into the future.

We finally drop down along the southern slopes of the Kouga Mountains and enter the valley thickets interspersed with beautiful stands of Proteas, Leucadendrons and other Fynbos plants as we make our way back along the well maintained farm roads with one more river crossing at which to stop and take a refreshing swim before making the final leg of our adventure back home.

• 3 day professional guided tour
• 2 night accommodation as per itinerary
• 4×4 safari vehicle, fuel
• Entrance/conservation fees
• 4×4 route fees
• Activities as per itinerary
• Meals as per itinerary
• Bottled water in the tour vehicle

Tour excludes:

• Alcoholic beverages
• Activities not mentioned in the above
• Tips/gratuities

Single supplement applies

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A Guide To Baviaanskloof

Your cell phone signal is gone and forgotten. Behind a bush a kudu with its stately curled horns is having a leafy lunch. A baboon barks – ba-hoo ba-hoo – and in the distance you see the troop moving up a hill. At a picnic spot you hear someone went searching for bushmen paintings, while another one saw a Cape leopard spoor in the riverbank. As the summer sun beats down, a stream ripples promises of an icy cold swim later and you are between two cliffs – a beautiful sandstone rock and a hard place – soaking in every inch of nature in its truest form, soaking in the wilderness that is Baviaanskloof .

The mega reserve of Baviaanskloof, in all its 500 000 hectares of ecological wonder and glory, is situated between the towns of Willowmore and Patensie on a 200 km stretch of dirt road. And this off the beaten path destination, that is also a World Heritage Site, boasts many eco-titles beckoning nature enthusiasts from all over, closer.

As one of eight protected areas that make up the Cape Floristic Region, it is home to the most diverse species of plants per square kilometre. Here you will find seven biomes: Fynbos, Savannah and Grassland, Succulent Karoo, Nama Karoo, Afrotemperate Forest and Thicket, and in the words of botanist Richard Cowling, it is “perhaps the most biogeographically complex place on earth”.

For off-road fanatics the kloof is a low range playground. Here diesel engines roar through water crossings, bump on corrugated roads, go around hairpin bends, along narrow roads and over passes. Each pass is unique in its own right, and with interesting names such as Combrink’s Pass, Holgat Pass, Langkop Pass, Grasnek Pass and Nuwekloof Pass, you can expect sandstone formations, panoramic views and the famous Raaskrans (direct translation: noisy cliff), where you can hear the echo of your own voice.

The Baviaanskloof – with its mix of farming and conservation – is a place of plenty, with nature pristine and remote, history that can be traced back to millions of years ago and a road, albeit bumpy, that is yours to explore.

Things to know before you go to Baviaanskloof

Here are a few key pointers to help you plan your adventure to Baviaanskloof.

Do you need a 4×4?

Yes and no. You can still see a decent stretch of Baviaanskloof without using a 4×4. Even though it is a dirt road, the northern (Willowmore’s side) and southern (Patensie’s side) sections of the road – before you enter the Wilderness Area – are usually sedan-friendly, depending on the weather. To enter the reserve gates (the section in the middle of the kloof) a 4×4 is required.

Activities in Baviaanskloof

There’s more to the 200 km stretch than meets the eye.

You can do one of the five challenging 4×4 routes on Doringkloof; the routes have a grading of between 2 and 4, and the longest is 78 km in length as it winds its way up the Kouga Mountain Range into the Langkloof.

The Cedar Falls trail (4-6 hours) offers incredible scenery and swimming spots as well as a waterfall (advance booking is essential) while you will find a variety of day trails at Kamerkloof. If you are looking for a multi-day trail why not try the 4-day, 3-night Leopard Slackpacking Trail or the Baviaans Camino which covers a distance of 93 km over 4 days (accommodation in old farm houses). Some of the hiking trails will also give you the opportunity to see cave paintings.

Home to the Trans Baviaans, a 24-hour mountain bike marathon, you can bet your sweet 29-inch wheels that there are some roads to tackle, and things to see form the seat of your bicycle; some accommodation establishments also have their own trails.

If your acrophobia is intact, another popular activity to try is rock climbing; the highest concentration of hard climbing routes in the Eastern Cape is at Waterkloof in Baviaans while Kudu Kaya offers 22 naturally protected routes, and via Bruintjieskraal you will get access to Grips, a quartzite slab of up to 120 metres.

For the twitchers there are nearly 300 bird species and you can look forward to bringing your binoculars along and spotting the protea canary, Knysna Lourie, blue crane and Stanley’s bustard to name a few.

Where to eat in Baviaanskloof

There are plenty of farm stall and restaurant options in Willomore and Patensie; on the western side of the Wilderness Area you will find BaviJaans Farm Stall and Vero’s Restaurant, both offering lights meals. Some accommodation also provides pre-arranged meals. If you want to have a picnic, you can go to Doringkloof Bush Camp (western side) or the Smitskraal Picnic Area (in the middle of the Wilderness Area).

Baviaanskloof is not exactly a shopper’s paradise – you come here to escape the crowds and the city – but you can find quirky arts, crafts, gifts and preserves at Baviaans Art Shop (opposite Vero’s Restaurant) and at BaviJaans. Babes se Winkel stocks a few items of necessity, if you were looking for something like a cold drink or sugar.

Where to stay in Baviaanskloof

Whether you want to camp or do a farm stay, the options are endless. Choose your accommodation in Baviaanskloof , or opt to stay in Willowmore or Patensie and explore the kloof from there.

A few more Baviaanskloof details to keep in mind

• There are no ATMs in Baviaanskloof, some places do accept cards, but it is always safer to bring enough cash.
• There is no fuel station, fill up in Patensie or Willowmore.
• There is no cell phone reception in Baviaanskloof.
• Give yourself at least 8 hours to drive through the kloof, from Patensie to Willowmore. It is best to stay over at least one night.
• As a provincial reserve, entering the Wilderness section requires a conservation fee and a permit (which can be paid for and obtained at the gate). The gate is open from sunrise to 16:00.
• When driving and walking around, keep in mind that there are dangerous animals, like buffalo, in the reserve.
• As a reserve and a World Heritage Site you need to act as a custodian of the environment, don’t remove plants, feed or disturb animals or damage anything in the area. No drones, firearms, traps, explosives or poison are allowed.
• Baviaanskloof is often closed due to heavy rain and it is always best to make contact beforehand to enquire about the condition of the road.

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Baviaanskloof Heritage Tours

• Visit Website

Contact Deon Van Der Merwe

• 044 923 1574
• 076 083 6357
• 044 923 2061
• [email protected]
• Longitude: 23.491756
• Latitude: -33.295492

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• Bank Deposit (EFT)

About Baviaanskloof Heritage Tours

The Baviaanskloof, once South Africa's best kept secret, is steadily becoming better known as one of South Africa's "must" places to visit.

                         This wonderland is an ever changing selection of scenery and vegetation types ranging from fynbos to lush riverine forest.  It is also populated by a wide selection of animals from the seldom seen leopards and buffalos, through various antelope species to the ever present baboons and tortoises. Unfortunately, a relatively short portion of the sole road through the kloof is impassible to cars which creates a problem for those without 4x4 vehicles.                         The simple solution is to take a tour.

Baviaanskloof Heritage tours commence at The Willow Historical Guesthouse in Willowmore, the western gateway to the kloof and terminate in either Patensie in the rich Gamtoos River valley or at Steytlerville in the Great Karoo.  These are the ideal tours for people whose holidays originate in Cape Town or the Western Cape. As a major bonus, you can drive your car to Willowmore, join one of our Baviaanskloof tours, and find your car waiting for you at your destination so that you can continue your holiday in ease!

This is truly one of the South Africa tours not to be missed.

This comprises a one day tour through the Baviaanskloof with a night in Willowmore and a night in Patensie.

• Our guests arrive at The Willow Historical Guest House in Willowmore in the afternoon and book in.
• They spend the night at the guest house, enjoying dinner and breakfast there.
• They meet their guide who briefs them about the Baviaanskloof and the surrounding area.
• After breakfast, the tour leaves Willowmore on a day tour through the Baviaanskloof, visiting various places of interest on the way.  This is approximately an eight hour drive; the drive can be done faster but one needs to take one's time to derive full enjoyment from the trip. 
• Lunch is served en-route as are drinks for refreshment.
• Our guests overnight at a guest house in Patensie where they will receive dinner, bed and breakfast.
• Our guests' vehicle will be delivered the same night to the Patensie guest house ready for their journey onwards.

This comprises a two day tour through the Baviaanskloof with a night in Willowmore, a night in the Baviaanskloof and a night in Patensie.  A night in the kloof is a "must".

• After breakfast, the tour leaves Willowmore for the Baviaanskloof.
• There they will visit places and meet interesting people who make their living in one of the most beautiful places on earth.
• The tour will arrive at the day's destination in about four hours where they will spend the night in guest accommodation on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis.
• After settling in, there will be a drive into the Wilderness area.
• The day will end with a sunset drive up into the mountains where wine and snacks will be served.
• During the evening, talk with the locals to imbibe some of the history of the Baviaanskloof and its atmosphere.
• After Breakfast the next day, the tour will drive through the Wilderness area taking in various sights and scenery on the way.

This comprises a two day tour through the Baviaanskloof with a night in Willowmore, a night in the Baviaanskloof, a night in Patensie and a half day drive over the mountains to Steytlerville.  This is an excellent option for those who have a little extra time to spare.

• After breakfast there will be a side trip to visit The Kouga Dam.
• After visiting Patensie and its surroundings, the tour drives up the Elandsberge Mountains and turns off to Grootrivierspoort which is a 4X4 trail at the back of the Cockscomb Mountain which  is the highest mountain in the Eastern Cape. This is a very spectacular drive.
• Snacks and soft drinks will be served on the way.  After about 3½ hours, the tour arrives at Steytlerville.
• Our guests will find their vehicle waiting for them at Steytlerville where we will bid them good-bye.
• Our guests can then take their choice of staying over in Steytlerville or driving to  Addo  Elephant National Park which is about 90 minutes drives on tar road.

Get Directions

Willowmore Office

Tel:  049 807 5709

Cell:  078 111 4828

Email:   [email protected]

Postal Address: PO Box 15, Willowmore, 6445

Steytlerville Office

Tel:  049 835 0484

Cell:  084 511 68 06

Email:   [email protected]

Postal Address:  98 Sarel Cilliers Street, Steytlerville, 6250

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General Area Information

Cell:  083 420 5434

Email:   [email protected]

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Baviaans-Kouga 4x4 (BAVIAANSKLOOF)

The Baviaans-Kouga 4x4 route is a Grade 2/3 4x4 route starting (unofficially) at the turnoff on the tarred R62, one km east of Kareedouw and ends some 70 km further north at the Doringkloof farmstead in the Western Baviaanskloof. The 4x4 section officially starts at the neck at the final descent to the Baviaans Lodge. If you are new to the Baviaanskloof, we recommend first watching the Orientation & Overview video . 

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BAVIAANSKLOOF FARMING COMMUNITY WEATHER

The roads to the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area are  open!

For general information on the road conditions click here

Baviaanskloof Tourism

When entering the Baviaanskloof through the Nuwekloof Pass visitors will be treated to mountain scenery that is often termed the "Skyscapers" of the Baviaanskloof. The road winds along the riverbed with towering cliffs on both sides giving one a taste of what is to come.

Along the way you will encounter the “Geraas Krans” (Noisy Cliff) and the “ Baviaanskloof Sleutel ” (Baviaanskloof Key). The latter is an overhanging rock with a split right through from the top to the bottom seemingly ready to fall and “lock” the road preventing access into the Baviaanskloof.

After passing the” Key” the road gradually enters the Baviaanskloof farming area also referred to as the Baviaanskloof Hartland . This area is well known for its hospitality and guest accommodation ranging from luxury lodges to campsites, from tree houses to caves.

Apart from accommodation the Baviaanskloof Hartland also boasts numerous 4x4 routes , hiking trails as well as cultural and natural tourist attractions such as San rock art, natural rock formations, artesian fountains, wild fig forests and magnificent mountain scenery.

To experience this visitors should ensure that they spend some time in this area before moving on to the Baviaanskloof Wilderness Area. 

​Arriving after night fall is not recommended unless arrangements have been made with the people where you are staying.

Find Accommodation

Save yourself some time  - Click the button above , complete the form and it will be forwarded to all establishments that meet your criteria.

Accommodation Activities Information News

For Accommodation Equiries Please contact the establishgments directly at the contact numbers as listed on the website.

For general enquiries

• Jana Meyer - 087 700 3551
• Ankia Smith - 082 879 5023 - whatsapp only

Baviaanskloof Hartland Map

About the Baviaanskloof and it's People

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Baviaanskloof Camp Sites

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Moscow tours

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Jewish Tour in Moscow

Moscow Kremlin tour

Red Square & Moscow City Tour

Moscow Non-Touristy Tour

Izmailovo Tour in Moscow Flea Market & Kremlin

Moscow Must See Tour

2-Day Tour in Moscow With a Friendly Guide

3-Day Tour in Moscow With a Friendly Guide

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• Moscow Tours

Our 20 Best Moscow Tours of 2022

Join us on an unforgettable tour to Moscow, the capital of Russia. Imagine visiting Red Square, St. Basil’s the Kremlin and more. Moscow is one of Europe’s most vibrant cities and one of Russia’s most historical. All of our tours to Moscow are fully customizable and can be adjusted to fit any budget. Our most popular tours are listed below. Please click on the tour details to learn more or contact us for more information about our Moscow tours using the form at the side of the page. You can also schedule a call with one of our Russian travel specialists to learn more.

Classic Moscow

This is our most popular Moscow tour that includes all the most prominent sights. You will become acquainted with ancient Russia in the Kremlin, admire Russian art in the Tretyakov Gallery, listen to street musicians as you stroll along the Old Arbat street, and learn about Soviet times on the Moscow Metro tour.

Accommodation

PRIVATE TOUR

A Week in Moscow

This tour is a perfect choice for those who wish to get to know Moscow in depth. One of the highlights of this package is the KGB history tour which gives an interesting perspective on the Cold War. You will also have time for exploring the city on your own or doing extra sightseeing.

Weekend in Moscow

This tour is a great way to get acquainted with the capital of Russia if you are short of time. You will see all the main attractions of the city, the most important of which is the Kremlin - the heart of Russia. The tour starts on Friday and can be combined with a business trip.

Group Tour Moscow Break by Intourist

Russia's capital has so much to offer, from the Kremlin and the Metro to the Old Arbat street and the Tretyakov Gallery. Besides these sites, you will also visit a fascinating country estate which today is quite off the beaten path, Gorky Estate, where the Soviet leader Lenin spent the last months of his life.

Kolomenskoye Tour with transport

The history of Kolomenskoye stretches back for centuries. In 1380, Dmitri Donskoi’s army passed through Kolomenskoye on their way to the Kulikovo battlefield, and it was...

Tours by car

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Armory Tour

The Kremlin is truly a fascinating structure, at the same time it is an ancient tower, the city’s former military fortification, a palace, an armory, the sovereign treasury...

Walking tours

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals, Armory, Diamond Fund Tour

Old Arbat walking tour

You will be told of the street’s interesting history and view the street’s artisan culture. You will also have the opportunity to view and purchase souvenirs from the...

Tour to Sergiev Posad with transport

Considered by some to be the Russian Vatican, Sergiev Posad is the temporary residence of the Patriarch of the Russian Orthodox Church. The Trinity St. Sergius Monastery (Lavra)...

Tour to Kuskovo with transport

The Kuskovo Estate often called the Moscow Versailles due to its perfectly preserved French park, is an example of an 18th century, luxurious Moscow summer residence. Its history...

Tour to Tsaritsyno with transport

The Tsaritsyno Estate is located in the southern part of Moscow. The estate was constructed for Catherine the Great by the Russian architects Bazhenov and Kazakov in a romantic...

Moscow Metro and Old Arbat Tour

The Moscow Metro is one of the largest and most grandly built metro systems in the world. It was meant to be a showcase of the Soviet Union’s achievements for both the Russians...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion and vodka tasting)

Vodka is an important component of Russian life, an element of national identity and everyday culture. We invite you to visit the Vodka Museum and feel the atmosphere of long-gone...

Mikhail Bulgakov Apartment Museum

This apartment museum located close to Patriarch Ponds became the prototype of the "bad apartment" described in the novel "The Master and Margarita." Currently the museum's...

Kremlin, Red Sq., Cathedrals & Diamond Fund Tour

The State Museum of Lev Tolstoy Tour

Take this opportunity to learn more about the Russian writer Lev Tolstoy. During the visit to the museum you will see part of a vast collection of exhibits connected to Tolstoy...

Novodevichy Convent Tour with transport

Tour of the Novodevichy Monastery. Founded in 1524 by Grand Prince VasiliIoanovich, the original convent was enclosed by fortified walls and contained 12 towers. The structure...

City Tour with Visit to St. Basils & Red Sq. with transport

Panoramic City Tour. This Moscow tour is a great start to your trip and the best way to get acquainted with many of the city’s major highlights. Our professional guide will...

City Tour of Moscow

Head to the heart of Moscow with a professional guide on a 4-hour private walk through the city center. See Tverskaya and Old Arbat streets, Theatre Square with the world-famous...

Moscow Metro walking tour

Kremlin, Red Square and Cathedrals Tour

KGB Tour with transport

This is a very interesting and insightful tour. You will visit places connected with Stalin’s terror - a time of great repression and fear. You will be shown monuments to...

Soviet and Post-Soviet Moscow Tour

The tour begins with a drive or walk down Tverskaya Street – a Soviet masterpiece. In the years of Soviet power, Tverskaya began to undergo a transformation: it was widened...

Tretyakov State Gallery Tour

This world-famous gallery contains masterpieces of Russian art beginning in the 10th century up until today. You will view exquisite Russian icons and paintings from the 18th and...

Jewish Heritage of Moscow Tour

This tour offers a detailed look into the history and present-day life of the Jewish community of Moscow. On the tour, you will visit sites connected with the cultural and religious...

Vodka Museum Tour with transport (excursion only)

Lena, our guide in Moscow was excellent. She was very knowledgable and could answer any question we had for her. We liked that she could pick up on our interests and take us places we might not have thought of to go. When we realized that one of the places we had chosen to see would probably not be that interesting to us, she was able to arrange entry to the Diamond Fund and the Armoury for us. Riding the Metro with Lena was a real adventure and a lot of fun. In Saint Petersburg we found Anna well versed in the history of the Tsars and in the Hermitage collection. Arkady in Veliky Novgorod was a very good guide and answered all of our questions with ease. Novgorod was perhaps a long way to go for a day trip, but we did enjoy it. Vasily was a great driver to have and kept us safe with good humour and skill. We enjoyed ourselves so much, my daughter says she is already planning to return. We would both have no hesistation to recommend ExpresstoRussia to anyone we know.

Just wanted to let you know that My grandson Bruno and I couldn´t have been more pleased with our week in Moscow (6/15 - 6/21). We were absolutely enchanted with the whole experience, including getting lost a couple of times in the Metro during our free time. Although both our guides (both Eleanas) were excellent, I would particularly commend the first one (she took us to the Tatiakov, the KGB tour, and to that beautiful cemetery where so many great Russian artists, authors, composers, musicians, militarists, and politicians are buried). Her knowledge is encyclopedic; and her understanding of today´s Russia as a product of its past was, for us, truly enlightening. I will be taking another tour in Russia, with my wife, within the next two or three years. I will be in touch with you when the time comes. Meanwhile, I will refer you to other potential visitors to Russia as I meet them.

Tours to Moscow

Our Moscow tours are land only meaning that you arrange your own air travel to Russia and our expert staff meets you at the airport and handles everything else from there. Our online Airline Ticket booking system offers some of the most competitive rates to Russia available on the web so if you need tickets, please visit our Russian air ticket center . Rest assured that you will be taken great care of on one of our Moscow tours. Express to Russia has a fully staffed office in Moscow that will help to make your visit fun, informative and unforgettable. Please remember that of all these tours are private and can be adjusted to your taste. You can add, replace or skip some sights; you can add more days to the package or cut the tour short. Our specialists will be glad to help you create the tour of your dreams!

Moscow, a City Like No Other

Moscow is Russia’s largest city with a population of between 12 and 13 million. It is also Europe’s largest city and when you visit Moscow, you can feel it. The layout and architecture of the city is eclectic, ranging from crooked, ancient streets and alleyways to wide, bustling boulevards, from medieval churches to Stalin skyscrapers and to modern, glass buildings towering over everything and of course in the center of it all is the Kremlin and the magnificent Red Square. Moscow is also home to a fantastic, efficient and very beautiful metro system – each station having its own special design. In fact, Express to Russia’s Moscow metro tours and excursions are some of our most popular attractions that we offer. On our Moscow tours, you will see this and more.

Moscow Tours centering on Russian History

Moscow has a long and interesting history and has been the capital of Russia in many of its different iterations – capital of the Grand Duchy of Moscow , the Russian Empire and of course the Soviet Union (who could ever forget the Soviet Union?). Moscow, was founded in the 12th century by Prince Yuri Dolgaruki (Yuri of the long arms – he really did have long arms!). From that time on, it was home to the Russian Tsars until Peter the Great moved the capital to St. Petersburg in 1703. The city has survived invasions and sieges from the Mongols, the Tartars, the Poles, Lithuanians and Napoleon but has always persevered. Our Moscow tours will enlighten you on this great history and give you insights into Muscovites and their unique culture. Our Moscow tours show you what the city is like today but also brings to life the past. Moscow never seems to sleep and is bursting with energy. A Moscow tour with Express to Russia is truly the best way of getting to know Russia’s largest and most vibrant city.

Frequently Asked Questions From Our Travelers

What is the best time to visit moscow.

Any time of year is fine depending on what you plan to do. Summertime is pleasantly warm, ideal for exploring the city and its vibrant atmosphere, but Moscow will be much busier and accommodation is more expensive. Winter can be quite cold but beautiful nonetheless, and this is unproblematic if you intend to spend most of your trip in museums and galleries. There are also various festivals and events organised throughout the year. For more information about the best time to visit, read our guide

How many days are enough in Moscow?

If you plan your itinerary strategically and aren’t averse to a packed schedule, you can cover Moscow’s main sights over a long weekend. Most popular attractions are in the city centre, and the Moscow Metro allows you to cover much ground in a small amount of time. Ensure that your accommodation is fairly central and book tickets in advance, so that you can make the most of your days. For an informative and well-organised day out, check out our Moscow day tours with options to suit all interests.

Do they speak English in Moscow?

As Russia’s capital city, tourists are well accommodated in Moscow. There should be English-speaking staff in restaurants, bars, hotels, shops and attractions in tourist hotspots, and there are also English-speaking tourist police. Transport services have English translations on their maps and English announcements via intercom; alternatively, order taxis from the Yandex Taxi app (Russian Uber), though it’s unlikely that your taxi driver will speak English. If you get stuck and cannot communicate, it’s fine to use Google Translate.

Is it safe to travel to Moscow?

It is no less safe to travel to Moscow than to any European city if you exercise common sense and look after your belongings. As with every city some regions can be more unsavoury than others, but no tourist attractions are located there. The traffic in Moscow is notorious, so exercise caution when crossing roads. Do not take unlicensed taxis; book in advance or take public transport, which is widespread and perfectly safe. If you encounter any problems, look for the special tourist police who can help you. For more information, read our guide about staying safe in Russia .

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