Visit South Africa's desolate and sparsely populated west coast on a private tour escorted by an expert guide. The tour explores the region from a base in Paternoster.
Price Per Person Sharing From:
From: POAThe price can be reduced by substituting accommodations
What influences prices?
Tour Ref. Code
Starting Date
Starting Point
Ending Point
Customizable
Type
Accommodation Level
Countries Visited
Distance
ItineraryGuests will be met at any location in Cape Town, from where the tour makes its way up the West Coast. This region has a unique charm and character. It is sparsely populated and offers an experience far removed from the hustle and bustle of Cape Town. The region is characterized by rough vegetation and vast stretches of beach that line the shores of the Atlantic.
We travel north to Langebaan, where the afternoon will be devoted to visiting the West Coast National Park. Here, a rich diversity of bird species may be observed in great numbers. Over 250 species have been recorded in the area. After the spring rains, the area is transformed into a flowering tapestry, creating a remarkable natural display. Following the West Coast National Park visit, we travel to Paternoster, where some time is devoted to exploring this beautiful village built in the style of a traditional West Coast fishing settlement. Then, it's on to the overnight destination.
Distance
Itinerary After breakfast, a visit is made to the West Coast Fossil Park near Saldanha Bay, a National Heritage Site. The park showcases the late Miocene and early Pliocene epochs some 5 million years ago. On the guided tour, you'll see fossils lying exactly as excavated. A remarkable number of species are represented at the site, making the region one of the most diverse Mio-Pliocene occurrences in the world. Approximately 860 sq. feet of the fossil bed is exposed and open for viewing. Saldanha Bay is then briefly explored before returning to Paternoster for lunch.
Near the village, we visit a lighthouse called Cape Columbine, named after the shipwreck in 1929. The 9 million candle-power lighthouse and radio beacon is a major navigational point for ships approaching the coast of Southern Africa from Europe and America. We also enjoy a hike on this stretch of coastline, which features many isolated coves, to Titus Bay. Wildflowers, fresh air, and a rugged seascape constitute the beauty of this part of the world. We head back to the overnight accommodation during the late afternoon.
On the southerly journey, a stop is made in the charming town of Darling, which offers views of the Piketberg. The town has a vibrant arts scene and fine examples of Cape Dutch architecture. A visit is made to Evita se Peron, a combination of a satirical museum, theatre, and cafe.
We then visit a wine estate near Darling for a sampling and introduction to winemaking in this part of South Africa before traveling further south, where another wine tasting is enjoyed not far from Riebeek Kasteel. The historical town is then briefly explored before returning to Cape Town after a short but memorable guided adventure.
Plan 
