Trail of the Oystercatcher

"Trail of the Oystercatcher" is a nature-based concern. We will help you explore a beautiful stretch of coast and discover it's secrets. The endangered Black Oystercatcher is our symbol to create and improve environmental awareness in the Garden Route region of South Africa.

Explore this marine rich coast and its unspoilt beaches. Learn the habits of whales and dolphins. Enjoy the eco experience of this educational walkabout - highlighting the habits of the African Black Oystercatcher. Snorkel safely in rocky pools. Visit ancient caves, fish traps and Khoi-San Middens.

Beside the sea and surf where nature waits for you ... Step back in time. Post a letter in a Milkwood tree that Diaz and his seafarers used as a post office ... 500 years ago! Visit a cave of the ancient beach people ... Watch the whales and dolphins play along the way ... Walk with us and ensure the survival of an endangered species.

Highlights of the Trail:

• Experience the marvel of the unspoilt Cape Floral Kingdom.
• During the walk, enhance your knowledge of the rare and indigenous herbs and aloes found here
• Overnight in luxury guest houses on the hike
• This is a fully catered and all inclusive trip
• Traditional meals; ostrich steaks, bobotie, Kara lamb, pot bread etc.
• Fresh fish from the sea, oysters, black mussels, calamari etc.
• Carry only a light day pack, costume, sun cream, binoculars and camera
• Your luggage is shuttled by us from one overnight stop to the next.
• Hiking dates scheduled between January and November

Explore on foot the breathtaking "Trail of the Oystercatcher".
Our vision is to conserve, visibly expose and sustainably utilise our stunning coast. This is done by means of a "wide-eyed wonder" fully guided educational walking trail experience.The trail is ideal for team building initiatives, groups of friends and families. Upliftment of the youth and local communities through environmental education and participation will be ensured.

The energy, knowledge and commitment of various local Nature Conservancies are utilised. Participants in this trail will become important role-players in eco-tourism and conservation in the Garden Route.

We aim to establish this 4-day/4-night all-inclusive trail between Mossel Bay and Rein's Nature Reserve as a must for nature lovers across the globe. The total distance is about 55km. Because of favourable weather conditions in this region and the presence of the Southern Right whales, "Trail" walks will be operated mainly between April and November. A traditional guide will always accompany participants.

Group sizes will be a minimum of 4 and a maximum of 12 persons. Participants will be shown the wonderful ways of nature.This will ensure a high quality, uniquely practical and educated eco experience.

THE ITINERARY:

Although it is marketed as a 4 day/4-night walking trail, in many cases participants will probably sleep in Mossel Bay on the night before the walk. When required, we will arrange such accommodation. Walkers need to carry only light backpacks or moon bags. Bring cameras, costumes, binoculars and sun block. Shuttle service for luggage from guest house to guest house is included for overnight stays. We are also considering a special Weekender Trail of 2 days/2 nights. Please contact us for details.

THE TRAIL:
• Mossel Bay to Dana Bay: 15km
• Dana Bay to Boggomsbaai: 12km
• Boggomsbaai to Gouritzmond: 15 km
• Gouritzmond to Rein's Nature Reserve: 13km

ACCOMMODATION AT:

Mossel Bay Accommodation:
Bay Manor - Mossel Bay, Lilies and Leopards - Dana Bay, Sandpiper Cottages - Boggomsbaai and others.

THE TEAM:

Fred Orban (Nature Conservationist), Jaco Venter (Environment Scientist), Talitha Venter (Planning and Packaging).