Breakfast:
At the hotel, we will have a buffet including eggs, sausage, bacon, cold cereal, toast, and fresh fruit, plus coffee, tea, water, fruit juice.
Morning:
This morning we will board our motorcoach for the ride to Knysna. From the Knysna quay, we will take a ferry across the lagoon to Featherbed Nature Reserve, a unique 370 acre reserve that encompasses the Western Head of Knysna, one of South Africa’s premier Natural Heritage Sites. Upon disembarking the ferry, we will board a large golf cart-like shuttle for the short ride up to the overlook, while our local expert discusses the unique ecology of the reserve. While at the overlook, enjoy magnificent views of the coastline and estuary. Our adventure continues with a choice of two hikes in Featherbed Nature Reserve. From the overlook, the first group will hike downhill through the forest, into the caves, and along the spectacular lagoon coastline in the company of a Featherbed ranger. The second group will be driven back down to the jetty and, in the company of our Group Leader, walk an out-and-back route along the last part of the trail where it is flat and not strenuous. Those not wishing to hike can relax at the main reception area, where there is also a stretch of sandy beach to be enjoyed.
Lunch:
Buffet taken on site at Featherbed Reserve, plus water, coffee, tea; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
After ferrying back across the lagoon, we will have a glimpse into the local township lifestyle within the town of Knysna. Disembarking from our motorcoach at various spots, we will take short walks in town with a local Xhosa specialist, who is also a resident of the nearby township. Our specialist will give the background of the township while we explore a community upliftment program that features locally produced goods. We will continue on to a traditional clothing shop, to experience how the locals dress, and then on to a local hairdresser to see the women’s elaborate braided hairstyles in the making. Our specialist will also explain the educational systems available to local residents. Our afternoon will culminate with tea hosted by one of the local residents. During tea, we will have the chance to learn some Xhosa words, as well as traditional songs and drumming. We will return to the hotel for the rest of the evening at leisure.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure.