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Yugen Earthside connects mindful travelers to responsible package trips around the world. CARBON REMOVALS INCLUDED WITH EACH BOOKING!

Connecting mindful travelers to responsible experiences around the world.

Prices exclude flights to/from the destination.

Prices are for double room occupancy unless indicated otherwise.

We proudly partner with wanderwell, a B-Corp-certified travel insurance agency and 1% for the Planet member.

Request a FREE quote for Trip Protection or Travel Medical coverage.

Whether you're looking to walk through vineyards, sip wine from a sustainable producer, or enjoy classic wine tastings, we've got the adventure for you. Carbon removals included!

Sustainable Wine & Wine Tasting Tours | Yugen Earthside

Discover self-guided, privately-guided, & small group tours around the world. Our sustainable adventures are customizable, and include carbon removals with each booking!

Trips | Yugen Earthside | Sustainable Adventures

A classic surf and yoga retreat with a sustainable twist! Hosted at an eco-retreat center, it includes a massage and an organic winery visit.

[7 days] Sustainable Surf, Yoga, & Wine Retreat | Yugen Earthside

A classic surf and yoga retreat, but with a sustainable twist! This experience is for people that want to do a little bit of yoga, a little bit of surfing, and then relax with a little bit of wine. 

Enjoy daily surf lessons and yoga classes accessible to all levels. Then, indulge yourself with delicious healthy food, local wine from a different small producer each night with dinner, and a deep healing massage on the welcomed rest day!

Come join us on this active nature escape and have fun! You'll unwind in a beautiful natural setting and learn about the local culture, all while getting to know new, fun people throughout your stay.

These laidback 7 days will fly by at this magical eco-retreat in southern Portugal's Alentejo region!

Daily yoga sessions in an open-air Shala in the woods

An hourlong massage with our Goddess Masseuse, Jana

Healthy brunches and dinners; vegetarians happily accommodated

Plenty of optional activities (for an additional cost)

This sustainable surf and yoga retreat is nestled in a historical rural village off the beaten path, yet located only a 15-minute drive away from the beach. You will stay at a beautiful property surrounded by nature where the hosts will welcome you like old friends. They will tell you about the history, traditions, and local culture of the area while taking you through the beautiful landscapes of the countryside and coast.

Get out of the city and feed your adventurous side by learning to surf (or improving your surfing skills!), and then find your sense of calm with daily yoga sessions. You will be delighted at how well yoga and surfing go together to strengthen and relax your muscles, improve your balance and focus, and, most importantly, make you feel great!

Yoga: The five, 75-minute yoga sessions take place in an open-air Shala in the woods. You'll be taught by Nina, a certified instructor who will tailor the classes to each person’s ability. There will be modifications suitable for beginners as well as those looking to challenge and advance their yoga practice.

Surfing: First-timers, beginners, and pros are all welcome. During your four surf classes on the beach, the group will be divided into beginners and those who already have some surfing experience, so you'll be in good company no matter what!

Rest Day: Near the end of the retreat, you'll have a rest day where you can completely relax with an hour-long outdoor massage by our Goddess Masseuse, Jana. In addition to giving your muscles some TLC, you can lounge by the pool, rest in a hammock, meander around the serene garden, or visit the secluded meditation platform.

Great food: You will enjoy healthy meals onsite, freshly prepared using exclusively fresh, local, organic, and seasonal products (most meals are vegetarian, too!). Menus change with each retreat, but here’s a sneak peek of what you might be served. Feel free to also drool over the French Toast brunch or the vegetarian frittata. At each meal, you'll learn about the origins of the food and its correlation with the local environment and culture. You may also visit the onsite garden if you wish.

Wine: The visit to a local winery is a real treat! You will learn about the producer's sustainable and artisanal wine-making practices before savoring wine and tapas during a paired tasting. See what the winery tour is like. Plus, with each dinner, you'll sip a different natural, regional wine sourced by local, small producers.

So come! Stay amongst the pine and oak trees, enjoy the delicious food and wine (again, it’s a big part of this trip!), and relax at this laidback retreat.

What is it Really Like?

Check out our blog post on Sustainable Retreats in Portugal for an even deeper look into what to expect. Or, watch these three 20-second video clips to get a sense of a typical day at this beautiful eco-retreat center.

Yoga, brunch, visiting a small coastal town

Brunch, coastal hike, market visit, early evening yoga

Free time, afternoon yoga, family-owned winery visit

Group Privatization:
If you want to bring your own group for a birthday, bachelor(ette) party, wedding, special celebration, or corporate retreat, it's possible! We recommend avoiding the crowded high season and coming in spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). The beaches are deserted, and the days are mostly sunny and warm (you’ll need a cardigan for the evenings though).


The surf and yoga retreats are organized throughout the year, mostly around the fall (September to November) and in the spring (April and May). These retreats are based on when the waves will be best and the temperatures will be comfortable for learning to surf.

As the best months for the surf and yoga retreat are outside of Portugal's high season (July & August), participating in this retreat will foster tourism dispersal (the antidote to "overtourism") and contribute to the local economy of the region anytime you join. If you're looking to explore Portugal further either before or after the retreat, you will avoid overcrowding.

Spring/early summer (March to June) and late summer/early fall (September to October) are really lovely times to visit Portugal. The weather is pleasant yet mild, making the outdoor yoga sessions, pool time, and short nature hikes very comfortable.

Airport transfer to the retreat center (but we can coordinate this)

Stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) (~35 € pp, excluding rental material & transportation)

Kayaking (~25 € for 1 person / ~35 € for 2 people)

Horseback riding (~60 € for 1 person / ~100 € for 2 people; 1h30 guided ride)

Photography session (~50 € pp or per couple)

Many 'excluded' activities (not included in the trip price) can be optionally added to your experience. Guests can decide on most optional activities once at the retreat center, and payment can be made on-site.

SUP and kayaking are dependent on weather, tides, and currents.

Our View on Sustainability
Sustainability is a way of life here. Our family has a deep respect and love for the region of Alentejo and we are passionately committed to protecting and preserving her to the best of our ability. Gratefully, we are able to plant our roots here and carry a strong sense of social responsibility to our community.

Our experiences are all based on the amazing nature of this place and our incredible community and we put a lot of effort to protect both. We love to share it with our guests and try to involve them as much as possible. This includes making them aware of our challenges and how can they further help. This is a truly authentic experience composed of small local and sustainable entrepreneurs only.

We make a big effort to maintain and increase the amazing biodiversity among us through the diverse activities explained during the trip. Our eco-retreat center uses solar panels, LED lamps, and local, organic soaps and ecological detersives. We work a lot to reduce waste, reuse as much as we can, and recycle the rest. We have clear waste sorting systems in place for guests, serve mostly vegetarian meals, compost leftover food, and implement organic farming and regenerative forestry practices. The whole trip happens in a short circuit of 20 kilometers, and we are lucky to have nature, beaches, and historic towns all nearby to reduce this trip's footprint. We don't sell or use single-use plastic items. You will see our animals wandering free and happy along our property and the surrounding area.

Accommodation
Being the trip organizers, and the host of the accommodations ourselves, sustainability is part of our lives and business. Guests are welcome to explore every corner of the property and question any concerns they may have. As a small family business, we work very hard to improve every day and create a more positive impact on our environment and in our community.

Sustainable Economic Initiatives
We are a small start-up that works very closely with the local community that depends mostly on tourism and agriculture. The timing of our programs year-round, and especially out of high season, helps the community to guarantee their income all year round. By working directly with local farmers and small food/wine producers, we help them to maintain their projects of family-owned, completely organic productions.

Being part of the local community ourselves, it's in our own interest to protect it and ensure it develops in a sustainable way. One of the high points of the trip is the visit to the sustainable farm where the grapes are grown before the winery and wine tasting. The tour is guided by the owner himself, a true expert that carries the work of five generations. The whole experience is very much community-oriented and we are very much actively involved in projects that protect it. Our other activities visiting local artisans, teaching guests about our cultural heritage, prioritizing small, local, and sustainable suppliers, and inclusive practices also support our efforts to be socially sustainable. We also discuss with travelers how to act responsibly in this destination and make donations to local organizations.

We are a pet-friendly site, prefer cruelty-free products, source meat and fish from trusted local suppliers, and support local pro-animal projects.

With a capacity of only 12 guests, plus its remote location, this eco-retreat is a safe way to enjoy Portugal. We follow special cleaning protocols adhering to European regulations.

Immerse yourself in South African gastronomy as you travel slowly to discover its food and culture on this tasty tour. Carbon removals included!

 [9 days] Sustainable South African Gastronomy Tour | Yugen Earthside

Immerse yourself in South African gastronomy as you discover its food, culture, and how the two are intricately connected on this tasty tour.

This slow travel, sustainable tour invites you to the table for a festival of flavors dipped in the rich cultural heritage of South Africa. We move at a leisurely pace and travel short distances, taking the time to walk and thoroughly enjoy each experience without being rushed.

A melting pot of many different cultures, South Africa's cuisine has stories begging to be heard! Come listen as you learn how to make some of our most popular dishes under the guidance of friendly locals. We will have you rolling your sleeves up, mixing spices, whisking away creams, trying delicious samples, and pairing wine with cheeses, desserts, and chocolates!

The 9-day gastronomy tour is designed for mindful foodies who want to indulge in great food and are curious to understand its history and origins.

Participate in cooking classes while learning unique histories of traditional dishes

Sample great wines and pair them with cheese, chocolates, & "biltong", a local dried meat

Meet welcoming foodies & chefs as you indulge in South Africa’s favorite delicacies

Experience South African culture by sharing stories and homemade meals with locals

Forage indigenous food in the unspoiled spaces of the West Coast

Enjoy the tranquillity of the Winelands and try seasonal produce

We have put the perfect sustainable gastronomy tour together that combines good food, wine, and great stories from the rich cultures of the Rainbow Nation. This culinary journey will take you from the buzzing city to the lazy coastline, ending on a high in the Cape Winelands. Enjoy home-cooked favorites, sit around the fire with food that makes you feel good, and feel satisfied with the harvest of South Africa's award-winning farms.

While you eat, listen to the fascinating stories of where the food originated. We will take you to visit the homes of locals, authentic markets, traditional restaurants, and typical farms in different locations in and around Cape Town.

You will be spoiled for choice, and you might just be adding to your waistline...Sorry in advance!

The small group, guided tour starts on a Friday and is available several times throughout the year - generally once per season so you can experience the in-season cuisine.

Should you request this itinerary as a Self-Guided version and start on a day other than a Friday, the sequence of the tour will be altered.

South Africa enjoys mild winters and long summers, making it a popular year-round destination. Remember: in the southern hemisphere, the seasons are flipped!

December to March: Summer is the best time for all those seeking the sun and beach days. Harvest time in the wine industry is between February - March. The weather is typically warm and dry. Temperatures average from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 30°C). It's the peak tourist season, with plenty of sunshine and little rainfall, so popular attractions and wineries can get crowded. 

April to September: This is considered the best time to visit with cooler weather. From March to May, autumn extends, with mild weather and temperatures ranging from 61°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C). From June to August, when winter sets in, the weather becomes cool and wet, so the country is less crowded with tourists. 

Regardless of when you visit, our food will be created from in-season produce.

Cooking class, olive tasting, food & wine tasting, indigenous food experience

Sustainability is at the very heart of what we do. Our focus is on local culture, the people, the environment and making a positive impact. We believe a collective consciousness is necessary for the traveler, locals, and environment to grow.

Therefore, we intentionally collaborate with those who want to be part of rebuilding an inclusive, more sustainable model that benefits all stakeholders in the tourism industry. All our tours/trips are a combination of celebrating all cultures, connecting travelers to local community experiences and bringing awareness about conservation. Travelers will enjoy the heart of the country through colorful and collaborative journeys that positively impact and empower.

Conscious of our impact on people and planet, we provide travelers with a Pre-Trip Guide to familiarize themselves with the culture, customs, traditions and how to minimize their carbon footprint on the destination.

Environmental Initiatives
South Africa has a conservation culture and from the start, we encourage our guests to join us in our efforts to ensure the preservation of water, save energy, and respect our natural environment. We share tips in our PreTrip Guide which we send guests before departure. Together with our partners, we are committed to running responsible tourism businesses. We carefully select our suppliers to provide locally sourced products. Our accommodation partners on this tour and all our tours are conscious of our impact on the environment. We have incorporated walking tours to minimize our carbon footprint. Sustainability initiatives include solar power and reduced water usage. At our wine estate, we use glass water bottles, compostable cardboard takeaway containers, and biodegradable straws. On-site, there's a recycling sorting plant for glass, cardboard, and paper, and we create compost for the gardens.

Economic Initiatives
We have co-designed this food tour to tell the stories of the local people, many of whom have been marginalized. This tour brings dignity and respect to ordinary people, including the indigenous community who have been overlooked. We have created a platform for wonderful food and life stories to be told in an authentic way. We focus on food entrepreneurs and small businesses in the Cape Town area which will give an economic boost to their communities. We have partnered with a wine farm foundation that offers learning experiences to disadvantaged and abused women, who have no source of income. These women receive training to produce and maintain their own vegetable crops. The vegetable gardens not only provide a sustainable primary source of nourishment for themselves and their dependents but also form a meeting point where women with similar and different life experiences can connect and share with one another and learn entrepreneurial skills to help them live self-sufficient lives. 

Sociocultural Initiatives
We are committed to promoting the cultural stories with the good food of the region. We use in-season products from local suppliers. From the finest food to homemade dishes, participants will get an all-round taste of South African cuisine. We are staying primarily at guest houses that help us in our sustainability journey as they are committed to changing the lives of their local communities. 

All health and safety guidance will be given to guests on guided tours. The Pre-Trip Guide also gives tips on how to travel safely. Travelers do not need to be vaccinated for South Africa.

South Africa is considered a meat-consuming country, but it has a variety of vegan and vegetarian restaurants and most eateries cater to all. Participants need to share their dietary requirements prior to arrival. Meals are provided from in-season produce, and alternative meals will only be replaced when notified ahead of time.

This sustainable yoga retreat includes daily sessions in a gorgeous open-air Shala, mouthwatering organic meals, & local wine! Carbon removals included.

[5-7 days] Sustainable Yoga & Wine Retreat | Yugen Earthside

Not your average yoga retreat! This is a sustainable retreat for people that want to do some yoga, and don’t want to take it too seriously. Here, you will have a good time while immersing yourself in nature and culture, exploring the Alentejo region, and enjoying local food and wine.

When was the last time you felt at one with your inner self? Or nurtured your body and mind?

Wait. Is that too zen for you? Let’s try again.

When was the last time you had some good glasses of wine with a cool group of people just after doing the tree pose? Sound better? We’ve got just the thing for you…

These laidback 5 or 7 days will fly by at this magical eco-retreat in southern Portugal's Alentejo region!

This sustainable yoga retreat is nestled in a historical rural village off the beaten path, yet located only a 15-minute drive away from the beach. You will stay at a beautiful property surrounded by nature where the hosts will welcome you like old friends. They will tell you about the history, traditions, and local culture of the area while taking you through the beautiful landscapes of the countryside and coast.

Get out of the city, explore a new setting, and unwind with yoga, wine, nature, and friends. This “kinda” retreat is for people who practice and love yoga, and those who are simply curious about yoga and -- cliché alert -- all the amazing benefits it brings to your body and mind. But it’s true! And also fun.

Yoga: Find your sense of calm with daily yoga sessions in the open-air Shala in the woods. The 75-minute yoga sessions are led by Nina, a certified instructor who will tailor the classes to each person’s ability - so everybody is welcome, from beginners to pros! Classes will mix different yoga styles.

When not practicing yoga or partaking in a glass of wine, you'll be taken to visit a local artisan to see their creativity in progress, and/or a market bustling with great food and local products. Wild beaches and nearby trails for hiking or biking also await. If you’re feeling extra adventurous, you can even try a surf class or horseback riding (for an additional cost). Or, lean into the pampering vibe and schedule an onsite massage (for an additional cost).

Group Privatization:
If you want to bring your own group for a birthday, bachelor(ette) party, wedding, special celebration, or corporate retreat, it's possible! We recommend avoiding the crowded high season and coming in spring (April to June) or fall (September to November). The beaches are deserted, and the days are mostly sunny and warm (you’ll need a cardigan for the evenings though).

Dates are for both 5-day and 7-day retreats, except:

May 4th: 7-day only (special offer available - contact us!)

The yoga retreats are organized year-round. Due to the nature of the eco-retreat center being located in a rural area, this trip will foster tourism dispersal (the antidote to "overtourism") and contribute to the local economy of the region anytime you join. However, if you're looking to explore Portugal further either before or after the retreat, avoiding the high season months (July & August) will help avoid overcrowding.

Spring/early summer (March to June) and late summer/early fall (September to October) are really lovely times to visit Portugal. The weather is pleasant yet mild, making the outdoor yoga sessions, pool time, and short nature hikes very comfortable. Coming in the peak summer months of July and August will be perfect if you love hot weather - and the pool and nearby ocean will help you stay cool!

4 (or 6) night stay at the eco-retreat center

Surf lessons (~40 € pp, excluding rental material & transportation)

Surfing, SUP, and kayaking are dependent on weather, tides, and currents.

For the massage, it is better to book in advance to ensure we get the best masseuses, so please notify us when your booking is confirmed if you would like to schedule a massage.

Choose between the 5 and 7-day packages. Note: There is a special 7-day New Year's retreat.

Contact us for discounted pricing on 2024 trips.

May 4th: 7-day only (special offer available)

A small-group wine tour with a twist... Discover the lavish Cape Winelands alongside South Africa's vibrant art culture! Carbon removals included.

[5 days] Cape Winelands & South African Art | Yugen Earthside

A small-group wine tour with a twist... Discover the lavish Cape Winelands alongside South Africa's vibrant art culture sweeping across the country! 

We know South Africa for its award-winning wines, but how much do you know about its budding contemporary art scene? In the last decade, there has been a significant development in South Africa’s modern artistic sphere, particularly in the capital city.

This 5-day tour will see us blend wine* with music, poetry, art, cheese, chocolates, and even 'biltong', a popular South African dried meat snack. You will stroll through vineyards while listening to incredible stories of how seeds are planted that grow into vineyards. And, you can attempt the ancient art of 'sabrage', which involves opening champagne bottles with a sword (with the assistance of a wine ambassador)!

From the city to the countryside, Cape Town possesses hidden gems within the vineyards of heritage farms. The wonderful Winelands has stories to share and gardens to show!

This tour combines these two exceptional sectors of art and wine in a way that's enjoyable for everyone, from novices to keen-eyed experts. If you love traveling with a creative mindset, this tour was made with you in mind!

*Non-alcoholic wine and other alcohol-free alternatives are available if you prefer.

Explore the hidden gems & picturesque scenery of the Cape Winelands

Visit vineyards in the finest wine valley, & savor two winetasting sessions

Learn the art of winemaking by one of South Africa's first female winemakers

Experience winemaking's magic by crafting your own 1.5L magnum blend!

Visit a vibrant Cape Town gallery & a wine farm that showcase South African art

Admire Street, Contemporary, Sculpture, and Indigenous art

Discover the Cape Winelands towns of Wellington, Stellenbosch, & Franschhoek

Away from the crowds, and within the beautiful Cape Winelands, sit historic old farms that have evolved into stunning vineyard estates. But it is more than their wines that we want you to taste, blend, and drink. The selected wine farms we visit offer more experiences to curious tourists, combining wine with art, poetry, and music. 

South Africa's arts sector has flourished rapidly, especially after the inauguration of the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa in 2017. This vibrant mother city has been a major epicenter for African art, Indigenous art, and artists. The expression of its rich and complex political and cultural history is evident in the work of some of the most exciting emerging artists of the region. With the exponential growth of art galleries as well as public and private institutions, matched with rising demand for African art around the globe, there is an endless amount of art to explore in the bustling, picturesque city of Cape Town.

The food scene in the Cape Winelands will also be a treat as travelers are spoiled for choice! From local eats to budget-friendly bites to fine dining, your tastebuds will be surprised and delighted. This tour celebrates traditional, exquisite South African meals paired with beautiful blends. 

December to March: Summer is the best time for all those seeking the sun. Harvest time in the wine industry is between February - March. The weather is typically warm and dry. Temperatures average from 75°F to 85°F (24°C to 30°C). It's the peak tourist season, with plenty of sunshine and little rainfall, so popular attractions and wineries can get crowded.

April to September: This is considered the best time to visit with cooler weather. From March to May, autumn extends, with mild weather and temperatures ranging from 61°F to 77°F (16°C to 25°C). From late June to late September, when winter sets in, the weather becomes cool and wet, so the country is less crowded with tourists.

October to November: October marks the beginning of the wine harvest season in the Cape Winelands, making it a great opportunity to visit the region. October is also the month for Pinotage, a signature South African grape varietal that is the cross-pollination product of two grape cultivars: Pinot Noir and Cinsault. (Cinsault grapes were formerly called Hermitage, making the name 'Pinotage' a blend of the names 'Pinot Noir' and 'Hermitage'.) Wineries are bustling with activity and the spring blooms create a picturesque backdrop. The weather starts to warm, with temperatures ranging from 63°F to 82°F (17°C to 28°C). 

4 nights' accommodation with breakfast at a wine estate

Two additional nights in Klein Karoo + a Wine Safari on the country wine route: $510

Sustainability is at the very heart of what we do. Our focus is on local culture, the people, the environment, and making a positive impact. We believe a collective consciousness is necessary for the traveler, locals, and environment to grow.

Therefore, we intentionally collaborate with those who want to be part of rebuilding an inclusive, more sustainable model that benefits all stakeholders in the tourism industry. All our tours/trips are a combination of celebrating all cultures, connecting travelers to local community experiences, and bringing awareness about conservation. Travelers will enjoy the heart of the country through colorful and collaborative journeys that positively impact and empower.

Conscious of our impact on people and the planet, we provide travelers with a Pre-Trip Guide to familiarize themselves with the culture, customs, traditions, and how to minimize their carbon footprint on the destination.

Our tour takes place in the Cape Winelands. The towns are small and community-driven with many of the wineries, restaurants, accommodations, and attractions operating with reduced environmental footprints. We are conscious of our footprint on the environment and the accommodation we have chosen is an example of this supporting our sustainability journey. The 5 days are spent at one property that operates sustainable practices and policies. They ensure that geysers are switched off when not in use. Light bulbs have been replaced by LED energy-saving bulbs. 

The on-site restaurant uses glass water bottles and biodegradable straws. They utilize compostable cardboard for takeaway containers, and they also create their own compost on-site for the gardens. Their commitment to sustainability is put into practice when the entire estate and homeowners endeavor to recycle and have a dedicated service that only collects recyclable items. Management also regularly communicates educational information to encourage recycling. Eco-friendly pesticides are used to control rodents which do not harm other animals. The estate also partners with Cape Nature for the rehabilitation of tortoises to be released on the wine estate.

We also invest up to 5% of the tour fee into one of the women-owned farms which runs a foundation that teaches women entrepreneurial skills that can be applied to the benefit of themselves, their families, their communities, and society at large. The foundation will help create a source of income for its beneficiaries. By providing shelter for women who are abused, mentally or physically, they offer a safe place to turn to as well as the necessary emotional support.

The owners of the establishments for this unique tour are all community champions. They promote the conservation and protection of local nature and wildlife, and their engagement with the local community is respectful, positive, and mutually beneficial. 

The wine farms we visit are properties owned by women from marginalized communities and are a true example of transformation in the South African context. The tour has been designed with the local people in mind and our supply chain, including tour guides, transport, and accommodation is owned by local women entrepreneurs who are community builders.

All health and safety guidance will be provided to the guests on tour. The Pre-Trip Guide also gives tips on how to travel safely. The wine estates visited in this tour have combined their wines with other art expressions through interlinked gardens and walkways that are safe and secure for guests to enjoy.

South Africa is considered a meat-consuming country, but it has a variety of vegan and vegetarian restaurants and most eateries cater to all.

Travelers do not need to be vaccinated for South Africa. 

Come enjoy wellness treatments, sip wines, & go on a safari to round out an immersive trip experiencing the vibrancy of South Africa. Carbon removals included!

[14 days] Wellness, Wine & Safari in South Africa | Yugen Earthside

Come away with us to enjoy wellness treatments, sip world-renowned wines, and go on a classic safari to round out an immersive trip experiencing the beauty and vibrant cultures of Cape Town, South Africa.

Is it time for a break from routine? Head down to the southernmost tip of Africa...

South Africa is one of the most magnificent parts of the world. It's a paradise full of exquisite scenery, beautiful beaches, wondrous safari nights, and exhilarating outdoor experiences, just to mention a few. And Cape Town is where it all starts.

Indulge yourself in traditional cuisine, nature walks, and time at the spa to restore your tired mind while enjoying fine wine in the Winelands. Finish your slow-travel experience in South Africa with a sensational safari in a scenic floral setting. Join us for this unparalleled travel experience!

Explore scenic Cape Floral Kingdom with its many beauty spots around the Peninsula

Breathe in the wide open spaces of the unspoilt West Coast Biosphere Reserve (UNESCO site)

Be immersed in the culture of the Indigenous First People of the country

Enjoy the tranquillity of the Cape Winelands and take your time blending food and wine

Mingle with the locals through storytelling while eating traditional cuisine   

Indulge in some pampering spa treatments                                          

Experience a 2-day Cape Safari in search of the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and buffalo) 

Cape Town is a treat for any kind of traveler. No wonder so many visitors come back! There is an array of landscapes, a wide variety of natural beauty to admire, and no shortage of activities to enjoy. Whether you enjoy the buzz of the city, the quiet of the coast, or want to meander into the Cape Winelands, Cape Town offers adventures for all ages.

The 14-day tour is a beautiful mix of immersive culture, community and conservation in the  breathtaking mother city of Cape Town. You will be introduced to the vibrant and rich history of the cosmopolitan city with ample time to explore iconic attractions like the District Six museum, Cape Point, Boulders Beach, Table Mountain, and the colorful cobbled streets of the Bo Kaap.

After 3 days of city streets, you will escape to the quieter and unspoiled corners of the West Coast, known for its quaint fishing villages. Here, you enjoy the open spaces on guided walks and learn about the ways of the San. From foraging for indigenous ingredients to sampling culture-infused food, you will be inspired by the simple ways of South Africa's First People.

Then, the pace gets even slower, when you venture into the Cape Winelands surrounded by beautiful mountains, rivers, and fine wine. Spend the next two days on a wine estate home to an incredible story of transformation. The scenery changes when you leave for a Cape country route that is off the beaten track and full of charm.

Your slow travel journey around Cape Town will end on a high note with a sensational safari at one of the most luxurious private game reserves.

December-March: This is the best time for all those seeking the sun and beach days.

April-September: This is considered the best time to visit with cooler weather.

August-September: The West Coast blooms into a blanket of wildflowers and is one of the most beautiful sights to see!

November-February: This is the best time to travel for birding (though it can be rainy during this period). Temperatures remain warm at 72°F to 91°F (22°C to 33°C).

Contact us about discounted pricing based on your group size.

Sustainability is at the very heart of what we do. Our focus is on local culture, the people, the environment and making a positive impact. We believe a collective consciousness is necessary for the traveler, locals, and environment to grow. 

Therefore, we intentionally collaborate with those who want to be part of rebuilding an inclusive, more sustainable model that benefits all stakeholders in the tourism industry. All our tours/trips are a combination of celebrating all cultures, connecting travelers to local community experiences and bringing awareness about conservation. Travelers will enjoy the heart of the country through colorful and collaborative journeys that positively impact and empower.  

Conscious of our impact on people and planet, we provide travelers with a Pre-Trip Guide to familiarize themselves with the culture, customs, traditions and how to minimize their carbon footprint on the destination. 

South Africa has a conservation culture from the start, and we encourage our guests to join us in our efforts to ensure the preservation of water, save energy, and respect our natural environment. We share tips in our Pre-Trip Guide which we send guests before departure. 

The country is currently battling an energy crisis called load shedding. Most of our partners have implemented energy-saving practices and follow protocols and guidelines to ensure safe environments for staff and guests. They have installed smart switches in various areas to switch off lights etc. when not needed. Switching off geysers in guest rooms when they are not in use. Most have replaced all light bulbs with LED energy-saving bulbs. We support them in their effort through our wildlife volunteering program. In terms of wildlife conservation in the Cape Winelands, our provider partners with Cape Nature for rehabilitated Tortoises to be released on the farm. We also support two female entrepreneurs who turn waste into wonderful gifts which are included in the Welcome Gift to our guests.

Our suppliers and partners are encouraged to improve environmental awareness. They have contributed to several environmental matters, which in turn helps us on our sustainability journey. Each entity has initiatives from small to medium suppliers to preserve nature conservation, waste management and water saving. We encourage travelers to use public transport, especially in the busy city centers, instead of hiring cars.    

We use locally owned and operated infrastructure.

We intentionally choose small operators within the community where travelers stay. From accommodation, transport, and fresh produce to co-creating travel experiences, to ensure the economic growth of that particular community as far as possible. Using local businesses and produce from the communities ensures a circular economy where money stays within the host community.     

Choosing and supporting women-owned businesses from marginalized communities as our suppliers are essential issues we campaign for. We directly address social issues like this to reduce inequality within the country. Guests get to immerse themselves fully into the local culture by enjoying a home-cooked meal, learning to play the African drums, or partaking in a community walkabout. Introducing visitors to local experiences like this, protect and safeguard natural and cultural heritage. Real local experiences like the Cape Malay, Black, and Indigenous tours make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

To help put profits into local hands so they can benefit directly, we:

Intentionally use youth and women-owned businesses from overlooked and marginalized communities. Creating opportunities for women from disadvantaged communities means they can provide for their families and community. Accommodation, transport, and food suppliers live in and around the community our guests visit. This ensures the industry's economic impact is spread equally at all levels of society. 

Co-designed travel experiences with local communities to ensure an authentic experience for travelers. This fosters a collective responsibility and gives them ownership of their product.   

Provide employment and business opportunities for local people. All tour guides are locals. Trained and certified by the municipal and national tourism bodies, tour guides are well-prepared, friendly, and professional in sharing their local knowledge with international and domestic guests. They come with the recommendation of our travel and tourism partners. Most of our suppliers are entrepreneurs and owners of their social enterprises. 

Provide welcome gifts for guests that are made and provided by women-owned businesses.

From the Bo Kaap tour to the Indigenous sharing their cultures, we are highlighting the diverse cultures South Africa has, which also represent marginalized people. Through storytelling, local artists, small operators and suppliers from disadvantaged backgrounds offer and create authentic travel experiences. Guests will share home-cooked meals with local women.

A sustainable, slow-travel journey of South Africa's highlights, traversing from the beauty of the south to the vibrancy of the north. Carbon removals included!

[12 days] Sustainable Highlights from South to North | Yugen Earthside

A sustainable, slow-travel journey of South Africa, traversing from the beauty of the south to the vibrancy of the north.

This curated itinerary begins with 4 days in Cape Town, where you’ll explore the vibrant art scene, iconic landmarks like Table Mountain and Robben Island, and enjoy locals sharing their stories. Get ready to truly experience the heartbeat of Cape Town!

Then, embark on a 4-day self-drive along South Africa's West Coast region to enjoy nature, birds, Bushmen culture, and the Cape Winelands.

Finally, you'll take a short domestic flight north to Johannesburg, where you'll stay at a Safari lodge. On this Private Game Reserve, you’ll search for the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, buffalo) and immerse yourself in the rich Batswana culture. Visit Soweto to see the homes of Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and join local festivities that will make your journey unforgettable.

This sustainable tour is crafted to offer a perfect blend of luxury, culture, history, and adventure—ensuring an extraordinary and wholesome experience. From UNESCO sites, to heritage tours, Indigenous art, and traditional cuisine, this slow-travel tour will authentically show you the multi-faceted wonders of South Africa.

Visit iconic attractions like Table Mountain and Robben Island 

Join the Bo-Kaap walking tour and indulge in a Cape Malay food experience

Walk with locals on a township tour & street art tour 

Visit markets & galleries that celebrate modern and Indigenous art in the Castle of Good Hope

Wander in the Cape Winelands in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek

Pair local wines with traditional South African cuisine

Visit historic places in Soweto in Johannesburg, including Nelson Mandela's and Desmond Tutu's former homes

Safari in Dinokeng Game Reserve and experience the Batswana culture in the neighboring village.

South Africa is a year-round destination, with varying regional climates and wildlife opportunities. When you travel may depend on which activities are most important to you.

April-September: This is considered the best time to visit with cooler weather. 

Low Season - Winters are generally considered the low tourist season, between May to September, although it is the ideal weather for certain regions, and so remains an active season for tourists to visit.

May-October: The dry season is ideal for wildlife viewing in the northern part of the country. Animals are more predictable and easier to spot because they gather around water sources and vegetation is lower. Game viewing is especially good in Kruger National Park, Madikwe, Pilanesberg, and KwaZulu-Natal.

Off-peak travel: Off-peak travel is between May- September with less crowds.  

11 nights of accommodation (4* boutique hotel x4, guest house x2, country estate x2, 4* star safari lodge x3)

Guided tour, entrance fees for: Day 1: Table Mountain, Day 2: Robben Island, Day 3: Food Tour, Day 4: Street Art Tour, Day 8: Cape Winelands experience, Day 10: Village visit, Day 11: Soweto Tour

Wine Tasting

Sustainable Surf, Yoga, & Wine Retreat

South African Gastronomy Tour

Sustainable Yoga & Wine Retreat

Cape Winelands & South African Art

Wellness, Wine & Safari in South Africa

Sustainable Highlights from South to North

Slow Travel Food & Wine Tour in Western Türkiye

South Africa Cape to Coast Self-Drive

Barcelona & its Surrounding Areas

Hiking the Wine Trails of Provence

Walking Tour: Heart & Soul of Douro Valley

Cycling Tour: Alto Minho to Porto

Walking Tour: On the Other Side of Douro

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