4x4 Overland Travel
Would you like to react to this message? Create an account in a few clicks or log in to continue.



 
HomeSearchLatest imagesRegisterLog in
*Welcome to 4x4 Overland Travel! The Community Resource for 4x4's, Overland Travel, Touring, Green Laning & All kinds of Expedition Vehicles! Guests, "Register" for FREE and join our Community*
Bought a Product or Accessories recently? - Got something to say about it? - Leave a Review in the "Review" section.

 

 Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012

Go down 
+14
wideformat4x4
Tembo
mugwump
tomw13
Jed@CampervanCulture.com
tuggy
scott.l.
VikingExplorer
marjal
gemini
roamingman
Tom Mc
Jas
GirlChild
18 posters
Go to page : Previous  1 ... 6, 7, 8 ... 11 ... 15  Next
AuthorMessage
tuggy
Just Got Spot Lights
Just Got Spot Lights
tuggy


Posts : 717
Join date : 2011-01-01
Age : 68
Location : MIDLANDS

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyMon Mar 11, 2013 5:03 am

tuggys mucho busy..... cheers1
Back to top Go down
http://kevcardno.wix.com/tugs-4x4
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyMon Mar 11, 2013 5:44 am

tuggy wrote:
tuggys mucho busy..... cheers1

That's a pity - it is warm and sunny here Wink Ok, so we don't have the vehicle yet, but you are more than welcome to wait with us ... next to the pool ... cold beer in hand ... cheers1

Wink
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
tuggy
Just Got Spot Lights
Just Got Spot Lights
tuggy


Posts : 717
Join date : 2011-01-01
Age : 68
Location : MIDLANDS

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyMon Mar 11, 2013 8:30 am

stop it you temptress.. cheers1 ... you..... thumbsup .
Back to top Go down
http://kevcardno.wix.com/tugs-4x4
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyTue Mar 26, 2013 8:10 pm

Been a bit busy on this side - but all fun!

Lots of updates to come ... but first and foremost - the vehicle has arrived!!!

Read Viking Explorer's account below.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Brodie is back!

After a long wait we received confirmation from our contact Keith that the vessel had docked, the container had been unloaded, and that it was now waiting for us at the SA Container Depot. Arrangements had been made with Customs, and the container opening was scheduled to take place at noon.

Our hosts in Cape Town were as eager as us to see the opening so we all piled into the car and headed towards the docks. Near the entrance we bumped into Keith. All that was missing was the agent, Moses, who would also pick up the customs inspector and meet us at the gate.

Even though we are in South Africa it seems we are on Africa time – 12 became 12:30 before the agent and the customs inspector arrived. Not a problem. Moses was super friendly and a good friend of Keith – both having been in the business for more than 40 years! The customs inspector was very reserved, something we later learned they are required to be. We all walked around to the back of the customs shed to look for the container. Not there! By this stage we had also been accompanied by the yard workers, the foreman, Moses’ helper, and a couple of other guys. A search for the container began. It was soon located in a stack, the truck called in, and the container placed where it could be opened and emptied.

The customs seal was broken in full view of all present. The yard workers opened the doors, and there was Brodie. As dusty as when we left him, standing in exactly the same spot. Phew! Hooray! We cheered. After removing tie downs and roll stops I received the go-ahead to connect the batteries and drive Brodie out. The batteries had contained their juice very well so Brodie started up first time. I had not really expected anything else.

After parking up the customs inspector asked to see the VIN information in the engine bay, and had a quick look inside the vehicle. He did not ask any questions and seemed happy to complete the paperwork. This meant that I could breathe more easily as there were no questions asked about the “255 parcels of used personal belongings” that was stated on the bill of lading. When loading in Dakar our freight forwarder insisted on an inventory after we had loaded the vehicle. Completing it from memory was tricky and we would never be able to remember all items. Fortunately there was no question about it, so all well.

The successful opening, unpacking and customs clearance meant that the release could be arranged with the shipping line. While this happened, the merry bunch went off for lunch. After lunch we went back to the container depot, picked up Brodie, and were allowed to leave the compound. Only one more step left: picking up the Carnet (and paying of course).

We experienced a very smooth and transparent process. As we had the Original Bill of Lading we could send all our paperwork to Keith who could initiate the process before the vessel docked. This meant that when the container was confirmed on the quay he could quickly book the customs inspection and line up all that needed doing. For us, this meant no stress, no running around, and complete confidence that we would get Brodie out that afternoon.

Now we are going to enjoy Cape Town and surroundings for a week before heading back to Johannesburg for a complete re-pack. Then off on adventures new!

PS: Keith is happy to be contacted if you have container receiving needs like ours, and the company he used as Clearing Agents is very professional and friendly. He may also be able to help with outgoing shipping needs. Please drop us an email if you would like their details.
[justify]

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Until next installment!

rgds
African GirlChild
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
Tom Mc
Founder
Founder
Tom Mc


Posts : 3781
Join date : 2010-12-10
Location : Sant Boi de Lluçanès, Catalunya, Spain

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyWed Mar 27, 2013 12:23 am

Phew! thumbsup
Back to top Go down
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyWed Mar 27, 2013 3:23 am

Tom Mc wrote:
Phew! thumbsup

Better believe it!! The grin on Viking Explorer's face stretched ear to ear!!!
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyWed Mar 27, 2013 3:26 am

All,

Been typing away hard today! This is our write up from Kruger Park ... we just love it!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

After the poor experiences of National Parks in Senegal, we were looking forward to visiting the wondrous parks of Southern Africa. Kruger Park is a real favourite of ours, and particularly the opportunity to enjoy walking through the bush – with guide of course.

Walking is – for us – the ultimate way to experience the bush. It allows you to engage all your senses: hear the symphony of early morning bird song; feel the grasses as you walk through the grasslands; smell the warm bodies of animals having passed by; see the smaller creatures of the bush – insects, spiders, snakes; hear the grunts of the wildlife; feel the rush of adrenaline when seeing big animals; stand in awe of the beauty of nature. For us – this is Africa.

Anyway, for my 40th … errr .. 21st birthday I was given the fabulous gift of us attending an Ecology course, run by Ecotraining, in the Makuleke Contract area in northern Kruger Park. Very exciting, so off we went. Vehicles were left at the Pafuri entry gate, and us “students” were collected in an open topped safari vehicle and driven to the rest camp that was to be our base for the next 6 nights.

It was magic.

The rest camp was basic but with luxury in all the right places. The tents were large 2 man canvas tents with 2 beds and a simple bathroom. The top of the tent sides had been replaced with mosquito net, which helped to keep the tents cooler in the 37C heat! The bathroom was for safety reasons: with the camp being unfenced, animals tended to roam through during the night. Needing to wander around in the dead of night in search of a loo could result in coming eye to eye with a new ‘friend’. Meals were also provided and everyone eats together.

And by everyone, we mean a continuation of meeting interesting, friendly people. Not only the group on our course, but we arrived as another group of guides were completing their Trails Guide course. There are also people based at the camp long term – as a placement after their 6-month guide course – and of course those who are running the camp. Everyone, without fail, was welcoming and inviting.

Our days were long but rewarding. We were awoken each morning with the drums beating at 5am. This is the most beautiful time of the day – the dawn chorus starts as the birds wake up, the air is still cool, and promise of an exciting day lies ahead. A quick cup of tea with rusk, fruit or cereal is a must before a 3-4 hour walk. By 5:30am we are on our way!

Most days, we drove to a spot and walked from there. This allowed us to explore different habitats and vegetation, study the diversity and see for real what we were learning in lectures. We headed off in a single file line, lead by 2 armed guides. This is Big 5 territory afterall, and safety is paramount.

At the end of the walk, we were treated to tea, coffee, juice and biscuits at the vehicle, before returning to camp. Never fear, breakfast was waiting! The cook – Lucy – did an amazing job of keeping variety in this and other meals.

After breakfast, a short lecture. Our lectures covered the geology of the region, the topography and how that – together with the climate – influences the soils. The soils influence the grasses and vegetation, which in turn influence the wildlife that lives there. It all fits together so neatly.

By then, most people were in need of nap – well, at least this explorer certainly did!

By mid afternoon it was time to do it all again – lunch was served, and out for an afternoon walk. The walk finished off with sundowners at the vehicle – a very South African tradition. There is nothing like watching the sun set, with a cold drink in your hand after the heat of the day has broken, watching and listening to the early evening sounds, and savouring the experiences of the afternoon walk.

Back to camp – and yes, more food. Like other meals, dinner was served around a communal table with everyone reflecting on the events of the day. Exhausted, we flopped into bed, just as the frog sounds started, and hyena and baboons could be heard in the distance.

Despite being on foot, we still saw 3 of the 5 Big 5. At the end of one of our afternoon walks, while enjoying sundowners, we saw a breeding herd of about 9 elephants, including 2 babies. We watched them from a safe distance for about half an hour. We encountered numerous herds of buffalo – one herd of more than 100 we watched from the safety of a rocky outcrop as they prepared to settle down for the night. And a very special siting of leopard as we drove back from our last walk … a first for both Kapp2Cape explorers. In addition, we saw giraffe, impala, zebra, monkeys, baboons, kudu, nyala, steenbok and positively identified almost 100 birds.

We also saw the evidence of the extreme flooding of January 2013. In 24 hours, a year’s worth of rain fell. The Limpopo and Luvuvhu Rivers flooded, and Pafuri Rest Camp was all but washed away. The height of the river and spread left debris almost 20 meters above normal river level, and hundreds of meters from the river course. Trees were knocked down, rocks moved and sand deposited in thick layers. The power of Mother Nature is not to be under estimated. The damage to the habitats will take years – if not decades – to restore.

It was a most enjoyable course, and together with the educational aspect, made it such a truly special week in the bush. We’d encourage you to take a walk in the bush – with a guide of course – if you have the chance. Feel free to contact us for more information about our experiences and our guides.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~#

I have to say, I am loving being in South Africa. With new eyes, I have a whole new appreciation, and there is SOOOOOOO much to see and do. Last time we drove from Cape Town to Joburg we did it in a day. This time, I think we could easily manage a week Wink

til next time!
African Girl Child

(PS - sorry, but photos on the blog)
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
roamingman
Terrain Master
Terrain Master
roamingman


Posts : 1392
Join date : 2010-12-26
Age : 75
Location : Nearly thier

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyWed Mar 27, 2013 7:58 am

Glad to see you have your wheels back, and getting to see South Africa.
Looking forward to your write ups. clinking teacups
Back to top Go down
http://teddybearspicnic.webs.com/
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySat Mar 30, 2013 7:32 pm

Back on the road again!!! Very exciting to be adventuring again Wink

Latest update ... and yes, finally we made it to Cape Agulhas!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
There was a certain amount of sadness today.

The last 5 days have been an emotional roller coast ride. On Sunday, we flew down to Cape Town in anticipation of being reunited with our vehicle on Monday. My aunt and uncle, Margie & Tim, kindly came to collect us from the airport, and had arranged for us to stay with their friends – Dave & Bev – down the road from their house. Hearts and homes were opened wide to accommodate us.

Viking Explorer has already shared the excitement on Monday, as the vehicle was released from the container. Everyone’s powers of positive thinking – from all over the world – ensured that the vehicle emerged in excellent condition. I think Margie & Tim enjoyed the few hours they shared as “A day in the life of overland explorers”.

We spent a day rearranging the vehicle from “shipping” set-up into “travelling” set-up, which only served to remind us that a full repack is essential before we continue. We bid farewell to our kind hosts in Cape Town and headed up to Langebaan along the beautiful Whale Coast Route.

It was exhilarating! After 2 months, we were driving, exploring, stopping to eat out of the back of the vehicle. We were overlanders again!

We took a detour through the West Coast National Park (watch out for Viking Explorer’s update), enjoying the scenery and birdlife. Vicki and Nick of Langebaan Sunset (www.langebaan-sunset.com) welcomed us and invited us to come and stay the night. They have been so very helpful in the preparations for our adventure – all from afar – and it was so wonderful to meet them in person and say a big thank-you. We spent a most enjoyable evening sharing stories, gazing longingly at their enormous map of Africa on the wall. As with all overlanders, we did the obligatory vehicle check over – everyone on the look out for a cunning idea they hadn’t thought of before!

This overland community is amazing – we both feel privileged to be a part of it.

Next, off to Hermanus to visit my uncle and aunt, Gavin & Cynth, and my dear Granny Ruth, who is celebrating her 94th birthday later this year. As is our tradition, we opt for the scenic route along the coast road (and avoided Easter getaway traffic on the motorway). Along the way, we stopped in Betty’s Bay to visit the Stony Point African Penguin Breeding Colony. Reaching Hermanus, we were again welcomed with open arms and much excitement that we have arrived very much ahead of schedule. And – importantly – safe and sound.

Today, it was time to head down to Cape Agulhas – the finishing point of the original adventure plan, and now a marker on our new adventure. The sunny weather we had enjoyed earlier in the week gave way to overcast and drizzly weather – identical to a good UK summer’s day!

And it matched my mood.

I was excited that we were visiting Cape Agulhas – the southern most tip of Africa – but sad that we hadn’t managed to drive the whole way down the west coast as originally planned. I felt sad that our map of Africa will have a big dotted line across the Atlantic Ocean, as events in west Africa lead to our decision to avoid the political instability.

I don’t regret the decision at all.

Just saddened that this beautiful continent continues to be plagued by fighting, religious intolerance and political instability. Generation after generation.

But now we can start the next stage!

We have been checking over the vehicle, and it looks fit to make the return journey to Johannesburg. Reunited with all our maps and guide books, we can start planning our route through southern and eastern Africa. We have also challenged ourselves to remove 1/3 of everything in the vehicle and leave it behind. You just need so much less once you are on the road!

So, our sadness is giving way to joy and excitement. We are on the road again, and eager to start exploring!

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

We are working on our route now ... very exciting!

til next time
rgds
African GirlChild
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
SafariDude
Just got M&S Tyres
Just got M&S Tyres
SafariDude


Posts : 137
Join date : 2013-03-20
Location : London

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyThu Apr 04, 2013 6:41 am

I started on your prep thread first, but got half way through when I realised you'd already started your trip so .... I jumped ahead to this tread. Spent most of today reading your amazing journey to date and loving it Very Happy You guys are living the dream we hope to be following in a few years time.

Come on, get typing, next installment needed now clapping

As for your brief venture into safari guide training ... we took a year off in 2010 and did the full training course with work on a safari lodge in South Africa and absolutely LOVED IT . Probably the best thing we ever decided to do - I'm so glad that others love doing the same thing. Gonna have to check out your blog page for pics now .....
Back to top Go down
http://www.alternativeafricanadventures.co.uk/
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySat Apr 06, 2013 11:59 pm

SafariDude - glad you enjoyed the course! Yes, certainly a great year, I am sure. Where did you do your lodge placement? it is still something we are considering for the future ...

Glad you are enjoying the adventure. I think this next stretch (route is under construction!) will interest you as we explore national parks!

Keep following the exploits!

(yes, typing as much as I can between repacking the vehicle and planning the next stretch Wink )

rgds
African GirlChild
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:02 am

A few more updates from the Kapp2Cape adventurers!

From the pen of Viking Explorer:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~#
Makuya National Park

Basic but appealing.

500km north of Johannesburg is the Makuya National Park. Makuya is a small park that shares a fenceless border with the Kruger National Park. It is situated just outside the northern part of Kruger, and is about an hour drive from the Pafuri Gate. The online information about the park tells you that “this awesome camp is located on a mountain top that offers a spectacular view of the permanent Levuvhu river and a baobab forest, where elephants, hippos and crocodiles roam freely 200m below the camp.” Our campsite was a bit more rustic, and is situated on the bank of the Levuvhu river.

We left Johannesburg early in the morning, and reached the park at about 2pm. The formalities at the gate were easy, and we were soon on our way towards the campsite. January 2013 the northern part of Kruger experienced a very heavy rainfall. Over a period of 10 days more than 500mm of rain fell; nobody knows exactly how much as the priority was to save people rather than emptying the measuring beaker… The rain and the ensuing flooding washed away almost all vegetation along the Levuvhu and Limpopo rivers, and also any campsite or permanent fixture that happened to be in the way. The rain also washed away a lot of the topsoil in the region, and therefore also the road infrastructure. Hence, the access road to our campsite was very rugged and only accessible with a 4×4.

The campsite we stayed at is situated on the river bank, in the shade of large lovely trees, and offers a small ablution block with two flushing loos and two showers. Each stand also has a braai area (BBQ) and there is a sink for doing dishes. It was clear when we arrived that no-one had been there to camp since the flooding. There was still a lot of debris on the stands, and the ablution facilities, although clean, had no water. On arrival the manager assured us that water had been pumped into the holding tank, but alas it was empty. Never fear, prepared as we are, we took water from the river for loos, and used the bucket as our shower.

As we arrived at the campsite with time to spare before sundown, we were able to head out for a two hour walk along the river. The fenceless border with Kruger – which happens to follow the Levuvhu river – means that all animals that are happy to cross the river can be found in Makuya. It is therefore Big5 territory and requires a guide. Our walk really underlined the massively destructive force of the river as it flooded, and the guide could point out new pools, new rapids and new banks as we walked. Although very visible indications of animals (tracks and dung/droppings from Elephant, Hippo, Buffalo, Lion, Hyena, Otter) we only saw Impala, Nyala, Warthog, and a lone Crock during our walks. That evening we braaied venison sausages over the open fire, listening to the chorus of the wild. In the early hours of the morning I was woken up by the distant call of a Lion.

Day 2 started with a long walk towards a viewpoint overlooking the river. After a quick rusk at the campsite we set off at 6am. The first hour or so is the magic hour – this is the hour where nature comes alive again, the birds sing and fly overhead in search of food, and bugs, beetles and butterflies all show off their splendid colours. This hour is also the coolest hour of the day. As soon as the sun was far enough up on the sky the temperature soared. We didn’t reach our view point due to the temperature and the lush and dense bush, but we still managed to climb a hillock to find some magnificent views of the surrounding area. Back at the camp we napped, had a swim in the river, and lunched, before heading out for our afternoon walk.

For us with an interest in birds, the area offers a fantastic range. We saw the African Fish Eagle perched in a tree above the river, we saw swallows hunting insects from the big Baobabs, we saw the Mocking Cliff Chat mocking us from the cliffs, we saw the Goliath Heron fishing in the river, and we saw Verreaux’s, Whalberg’s, Black Chested Snake, and Marshall Eagles, the Jachobin Cuckoo, the Squacco Heron, and the Spectacled Mousebird among many others.

Makuya also offers tented accommodation at the main camp. In addition, there are organised 4×4 tours that use the trails going through the park. These trails are quite challenging, with a need to be completely self-sufficient for the duration of the trip.

We finished our trip with a short walk in the morning, looking for any evidence of activity from the previous night. As we drove back out to the gate we were all hoping for the magic sighting you sometimes get when leaving a park – but alas, this time it eluded us.

Facts:
- situated approximately 500km from Johannesburg
- access via Makhado, Tshipise, Mutale
- fees are very reasonable at ZAR10pp and ZAR20pv.
- The Singo Safari Lodge offers self-catering in a tented camp. Total capacity is 16 people. Options include tents with 2 beds or family tent with 2 single beds in 2 bedrooms. Rates from about ZAR400 for the tent per night.
- camping facilities are basic but good and offers stands with views of the river, ablution block, running water and braai area.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

More to come ...

rgds
African GirlChild
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:08 am

Another review from Viking Explorer:

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
West Coast National Park

A Western Cape gem

When we prepared for our trip we tapped into the Overland Community. There were many people who helped us with information, but particularly patient were Langebaan Sunset. So, after collecting Brodie in Cape Town we invited ourselves to visit Langebaan Sunset in – yes you guessed it – Langebaan.

Confirming directions we discovered that it is possible to follow the R27 up the coast and enter Langebaan via the West Coast National Park. Armed with our camera, a pair of old binos and the Wild Card we set out.

The West Coast Gate to the park, which we used as our entry point, is located just off the R27 and is well signposted from both directions. At the gate we were met by a friendly warden who took our details. As he opened the gate for us he also handed us a very useful map of the park where all the bird hides and look-out points were marked. Such a contrast to the map-less parks we had visited in Senegal…

Western Cape NP stretches along the west coast of South Africa just south of Langebaan. It is mainly low shrubland based on sand. The park also incorporates the Langebaan Lagoon which adds a marshland area. The Langebaan Lagoon was recognised as a Ramsar wetland area in 1975 with the Park being formally established in 1985. The Park comprises a total of 32,000ha. In the flower season an additional area is open to the public. The area has also had some Norwegian influence in a whaling station that was in operation between 1909 and 1930.

After a quick look at our map to decide our route (there aren’t really that many options) we headed for the first bird hide. Here we spotted the Sacred Ibis, the African Spoonbill, and the Yellow Canary amongst others. The hide is a lovely place overlooking a watering hole, with informative posters of the main birds that can be seen there. The hide is also next to one of the accommodation options that are available in the park, Abrahamskraal Cottage. This cottage is built in true Cape Dutch style which makes it blend in nicely in the terrain, even though it is bright white. From the hide we continued on the road past Johanne’s Beach Cottage, ending up at the braai area at Preekstoel (probably some Norwegian influence in that name).

We had already had our lunch before entering the park, but decided to try out the acclaimed restaurant at Geelbek. On our way there we spotted both Kudu and Eland, and added the Cape Spurfowl and the Hartlaub’s Gull to our list. At the restaurant we bumped into a family of Swedes (they are never far away), as we ordered our very decadent and gigantous pieces of Chocolate and Red Velvet cake. A short walk from the restaurant there are two bird hides on wooden walkways stretching into the lagoon. These are perfect places to watch the wading birds, especially the Lesser and Greater Flamingos, the Common Greenshank, and the Little Stints. Overhead, it is also easy to spot the White Throated Swallows as they circle around looking for insects.

Leaving the restaurant we headed towards the Langebaan Gate, meandering our way above the east side of the lagoon. Although the Park also promises Zebra and Caracal they were very camouflaged when we were there. We did, however, spot the Rock Kestrel and quite a few Ostriches on the way out.

Facts:
- situated along the R27 approximately 120km north of Cape Town
- access via the West Gate off the R27 or via the Langebaan Gate on the south side of Langebaan
- entry is free with the Wild Card. Without the card it is R34pp in off season and R48 in high season (flower season). Vehicles from 2-5t is charged at R230 and above 5t even more, but we were not charged this (I think because we had the Wild Card).
- there accommodation in Cottages, Chalets and Houseboats, but there is no camping.
- there are also dedicated hiking routes (1 and 2 day) and MTB routes in the Park. The roads are also perfect for road cycling.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Actually, A good tip if you are in South Africa for a reasonable amount of time and visiting lots of National Parks - buy yourself a WildCard. After buying the card (http://www2.sanparks.org/wild/default.php) also here (http://www2.sanparks.org/wild_new/tourism/pricing.php) you have free entry into the parks covered, which is most.

The cost of the card was the same as our 6 days of park entry / conservation fees into Kruger National Park. So, any other parks that we visit in South Africa are ... yip ... FREE!! We are making the most of it Wink

rgds
African GirlChild
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:10 am

Another update ...

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
One of the things that we have missed the most when living in the UK, is that our family are far away. So, our Easter weekend spent in Onrus continued the immersion in African GirlChild’s family embrace which started in Cape Town (when we stayed with my uncle and aunt, Tim & Margie).

Gavin & Cynthia (yes, more uncles and aunts and Fellow African Explorers) opened their home to us, as well as Therese (Cynthia’s sister). Onrus is just outside Hermanus – well known for the whale watching later in the year – and is popular for the active retired! Nope, we couldn’t keep up.

After barely acceptable weather on Good Friday – when we managed to reach Cape Agulhas – Easter Saturday dawned seriously blustery, windy, rainy … everything the Cape of Storms is notorious for! While Viking Explorer and I were avoiding the worst of weather indoors, Gavin ran the ultra marathon at Two Oceans Marathon, while Cynthia and Therese valiantly supported. We watched the race on TV while doing our route planning, and savouring hot teas and coffees. Unfortunately, we did have to brave the weather to buy groceries for the family lunch the following day.

Easter Sunday was a real treat for me – family lunch (with all its idiosyncracies). My dear Gran – all of 93 and a half – and aunt and uncle, Sarah and Rex (living in Abu Dhabi), plus my twin cousins, Jonathan and Michael (studying in Cape Town), all descended for lunch. Yes, these affairs are always slightly chaotic, and for those not born with African GirlChild blood flowing in the veins, can be quite daunting. We enjoyed a deliciously cooked lunch,good catching up on each others lives, and general family time. We shared some of our trip photos – which I like to think everyone enjoyed.

The African Travel Bug is definitely hereditary, and so we took advantage of the knowledge of our Fellow African Explorers, and had them share their trip photos from separate trips to Zambia and Tanzania in the last few years. The photos were stunning, and have given us a few more places to add to our itinerary.

We were also introduced to their neighbours, Paul and Susanne, who are about to depart on their own 3 month adventure up to Uganda via Zambia and back via Mozambique. We compared notes, and were pleasantly surprised to see that a huge part of their route resembles some of our early thinking on our next stage! Unfortunately, they are about a month ahead of us, so the logistics of travelling together don’t quite work out.

We finished off the weekend with a fabulous walk in Fernkloof (yes, the weather had improved by Easter Monday) and a most enjoyable game of “treintjie” – a very entertaining variation on traditional dominos, best played with a glass of wine in the other hand.

All in all, a heart-warming weekend – great company, great food and great wine!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

rgds
African GirlChild
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
Tom Mc
Founder
Founder
Tom Mc


Posts : 3781
Join date : 2010-12-10
Location : Sant Boi de Lluçanès, Catalunya, Spain

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:13 am

Strewth ... whilst it's great reading, it makes my feet itch. No
Back to top Go down
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:26 am

Well, we feel like we are fighting a losing battle with keep the trip notes updated ... but do scroll upwards to read the last few installments.

Also, other exciting news (which will hit the blog formally in a little while)

Kapp2Cape to meet GlobalAdventures!

Yip, we have managed to arrange our route to join up with Scott and Karl in Botswana for the south to north leg of their trip. We are really excited to be travelling together.

Scott and I chatted on email for ages before we met at the Overland Show in October last year. We agreed then that we should definitely do a trip together - but didn't realise it would be quite so soon! Be careful what you wish for ... sometimes Life has a funny way of making it come true Wink

We are are in the process of repacking the vehicle at the moment - there is going to be a LOT less this next stage. Also, the route for the next 5-6 months is starting to come together nicely, so we'll be able to share that with you all soon.

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 IMG_3707

til next time!
African GirlChild
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:28 am

Tom Mc wrote:
Strewth ... whilst it's great reading, it makes my feet itch. No

Well, the big cleanout in the vehicle means we can now actually use the 3rd seat ... Wink
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
tuggy
Just Got Spot Lights
Just Got Spot Lights
tuggy


Posts : 717
Join date : 2011-01-01
Age : 68
Location : MIDLANDS

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:31 am

great stories...keep it up good to see your still enjoying it.... cheers1
Back to top Go down
http://kevcardno.wix.com/tugs-4x4
GirlChild
Just fitted a Snorkel
Just fitted a Snorkel
GirlChild


Posts : 419
Join date : 2012-03-07
Location : In the sands of UAE

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:37 am

tuggy wrote:
great stories...keep it up good to see your still enjoying it.... cheers1

Tugs - just itching to head to Botswana and continue our route. A few tiny tweaks to the vehicle (wiring in lighting at the back for cooking, major repack, repairs to the tent). Nothing majorly mechanical, fortunately. We're also looking at a way to give ourselves a bit more privacy when we are sitting outside the vehicle ...

The national parks are really calling our names - can't wait to introduce Scott and Karl to the 'wilds of Africa'! We'll try not to feed them to the lions Wink

Watch for route details!!

Your Morocco jaunt looked stunning!! Glad you had a good time.

rgds
African GirlChild


Last edited by GirlChild on Tue Apr 09, 2013 1:02 am; edited 1 time in total
Back to top Go down
http://www.kapp2cape.net
tuggy
Just Got Spot Lights
Just Got Spot Lights
tuggy


Posts : 717
Join date : 2011-01-01
Age : 68
Location : MIDLANDS

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 12:55 am

wont be long now i am cracking on with the truck we were suppose to be in it this weekend but i am nowhere near ready,,,another couple of weeks and we shall start to use it.. stupid ...it will be a design and built..on the road sort of thing.. study ..cant wait i have...VERY itchy feet again....... thumbsup
Back to top Go down
http://kevcardno.wix.com/tugs-4x4
Tom Mc
Founder
Founder
Tom Mc


Posts : 3781
Join date : 2010-12-10
Location : Sant Boi de Lluçanès, Catalunya, Spain

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 1:47 am

Too late now, but may come in handy in the future - www.africanoverlanders.com

Known them for a while now, seem a great bunch.
Back to top Go down
roamingman
Terrain Master
Terrain Master
roamingman


Posts : 1392
Join date : 2010-12-26
Age : 75
Location : Nearly thier

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 6:50 am

Hi GirlChild, some great reading again from the 2 of you, really enjoy your trips reports.
I suppose we will fill up our camper with too much stuff, so we are going to check all what we what, then pick what we need. clinking teacups
Back to top Go down
http://teddybearspicnic.webs.com/
Tom Mc
Founder
Founder
Tom Mc


Posts : 3781
Join date : 2010-12-10
Location : Sant Boi de Lluçanès, Catalunya, Spain

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 11:06 am

GirlChild wrote:
Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 IMG_3707
I see that Oyvind's DIY storage system is still intact, that's lucky! Razz
Back to top Go down
roamingman
Terrain Master
Terrain Master
roamingman


Posts : 1392
Join date : 2010-12-26
Age : 75
Location : Nearly thier

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptySun Apr 07, 2013 8:25 pm

Tom Mc wrote:
GirlChild wrote:
Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 IMG_3707
I see that Oyvind's DIY storage system is still intact, that's lucky! Razz

Tom, that's not luck, that's good workmanship, made to last. clinking teacups
Back to top Go down
http://teddybearspicnic.webs.com/
Tom Mc
Founder
Founder
Tom Mc


Posts : 3781
Join date : 2010-12-10
Location : Sant Boi de Lluçanès, Catalunya, Spain

Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 EmptyMon Apr 08, 2013 3:44 am

roamingman wrote:
Tom Mc wrote:
GirlChild wrote:
Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 IMG_3707
I see that Oyvind's DIY storage system is still intact, that's lucky! Razz

Tom, that's not luck, that's good workmanship, made to last. clinking teacups
Just knew one of you would bite! Twisted Evil
Back to top Go down
Sponsored content





Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty
PostSubject: Re: Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012   Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012 - Page 7 Empty

Back to top Go down
 
Kapp 2 Cape: Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas starting Oct 2012
Back to top 
Page 7 of 15Go to page : Previous  1 ... 6, 7, 8 ... 11 ... 15  Next
 Similar topics
-
» Kapp 2 Cape - Nordkapp to Cape Agulhas 2012
» UK to Cape Town - 2012
» overland to cape
» Abenteuer & Allrad (Adventure Wheel) Show, Germany 2012 7-10 June 2012
» Tabasamu - London to Cape Town 2010

Permissions in this forum:You cannot reply to topics in this forum
4x4 Overland Travel :: CURRENT - Overland Trips & Expeditions-
Jump to: