Discover sustainable travel in South Africa! Enjoy slow travel as you explore the Winelands, safaris, cultural experiences, & more. Carbon removals included! Packages customizable.

Sustainable Travel in South Africa | Yugen Earthside

South Africa is located at the southernmost tip of the African continent and draws visitors eager to see its diverse wildlife, wander the bustling city of Cape Town, and discover the world-renowned Cape Winelands. South Africa is a year-round destination, though the best time to visit may depend on what activities you're most excited about.

Wildlife and conservation lovers will be delighted by classic safaris, adorable coastal penguin colonies, and the opportunity to combine travel with volunteering by helping out at a cheetah conservation center.

Cosmopolitan travelers can look forward to learning about South Africa's vibrant art and culture, savoring its budding gastronomic scene, and sipping their way through the Cape Winelands.

We’re proud to work with a South African woman-owned partner specializing in unique, safe, and sustainable experiences that celebrate and support South African culture, communities, and conservation efforts.

Our responsible South Africa travel packages offer a variety of immersive travel experiences ranging from a 5-day Small-Group tour perfect for adding onto a longer visit to this country, to 14+ day Self-Guided slow-travel journeys. Every adventure is thoughtfully designed to balance cultural exploration and environmental responsibility while helping travelers discover the wonderful diversity of South Africa safely and comfortably.

Looking for something different? Tell us what you're looking for and we'll help you find or craft your perfect sustainable adventure in South Africa.

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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.

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

Join an unforgettable celebration of sisterhood on this women-only journey to South Africa! Carbon removals included.

[9 days] Women-Only Sisterhood Journey in South Africa | Yugen Earthside

Join an unforgettable celebration of sisterhood on this women-only journey to South Africa, where adventure, culture, and connection await! 

Discover the beauty and vibrancy of the hidden gems of South Africa, the women of the rainbow nation. From the coast to the city, from the Winelands and the countryside, the Western Cape has it all! You might know the mother city by its scenic landscapes, incredible wildlife, golden beaches, award-winning wines, and diverse cultures, but there is so much more to explore…

Discover scenic Cape Town and the surrounding areas, like Table Mountain, one of the Seven Wonders of the World

Engage with phenomenal women, in local communities, over award-winning wine, and indulge in local traditional food

Explore the bush in search of African wildlife on a private game reserve led by its female founder

Experience local hospitality on a coastal retreat, run by Women, for Women

End the tour on a high with an 'Inspire' party

Want to travel in a new, mindful, and meaningful way that benefits all

Delight in sharing with other women and want to form new friendships

Enjoy the diversity and be open to experiencing African music, dance

Are ready to inspire and be inspired by nature, culture, and food

Demonstrate a commitment to sustainable travel

Are open to learning and sharing experiences in a fun and safe way

Stay tuned for new departure dates to be added!

March is filled with warm and sunny days. The weather in Cape Town in March is characterized by moderate and pleasant temperatures, marking the transitions from hot summers to milder autumns. There is still plenty of sunshine, as temperatures decrease from 80F to 72F.

All meals on the itinerary: x7 Breakfast, x5 Lunch, x6 Dinner

Guided tours: Cape Peninsula, Bo Kaap walking tour, Table Mountain, sunset cruise, a visit to a community project, Cape Winelands tour

 Activities include Wine tasting experience, food tasting, mini-workshop, game drives

Entrance fees, community & conservation levies

We are a woman-owned, UK-based tour operator that offers locally inspired Southern African journeys. Conscious of our footprint on the planet and people, we advocate for dignity, celebrate humanity, and respect the environment we travel to. We showcase the heart of the destinations through diverse, colorful, and collaborative journeys that positively impact and empower. We specialize in volunteering holidays for grown-ups and leisure holidays that benefit both travelers and the destination. 

Born and bred in Cape Town, our female founder is committed to creating authentic experiences that showcase the beauty of the people. Our supply chain is primarily women and youth from marginalized communities who are registered with their local tourism authorities and are professional in their conduct towards visitors. The travel and tourism industry is a vehicle to bring about transformation, and sustainability is at the heart of what we do. 

Carbon reduction: Guests are encouraged to join the efforts to ensure the preservation of water, save energy, and respect our natural environment. In your Pre-Trip Guide, you’ll find tips encouraging using water sparingly, using towels more than once, using air conditioners when necessary, and switching lights off when leaving your room. The trip includes the use of public transport in the city and walking tours in the other locations. The private game reserve is a solar farm, while all properties make sure that geysers are switched off when not in use. Light bulbs have been replaced by LED energy-saving bulbs. Food is sourced from small local suppliers with both vegan and vegetarian options.

Environment and Wildlife: We are conscious of our footprint on the environment and the accommodations we have chosen are implementing sustainable policies. We start the tour in a tranquil area surrounded by a forest of leafy trees and sweet-smelling Fynbos. The nature-infused experiences like foraging indigenous plants for cooking a meal, will bring greater understanding not only about the area’s unique biodiversity but also the connection between nature and humans.

Accommodation Initiatives: The on-site restaurant in the Winelands estate uses glass water bottles and biodegradable straws. Compostable cardboard for takeaway containers in the restaurant while they also make their 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.

All four properties are locally owned and are fully committed to community development in their respective areas.

Apart from the city, all other establishments are away from the normal tourist attractions with the Fairtrade certification.

This unique tour has been especially and intentionally designed to empower women from marginalized backgrounds working within the tourism industry. The supply chain is made up of women-owned small businesses that will directly benefit from this women’s expedition, which in turn will benefit their families.

Most of the tour guides are female and from the local areas.

We stay in small towns like Kleinmond, Wellington, and Oudtshoorn and visit markets, have a cooking experience in a local women’s home, and a community center.

Women-Only Sisterhood Journey in South Africa

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.

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

4 guided game drives on a private reserve (2 mornings, 2 sunset)

Daily ground support and emergency contact

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 combine 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.

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 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 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 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. Local experiences like the Cape Malay, Black, and Indigenous tours make cities and human settlements inclusive, safe, resilient, and sustainable.

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.

From the Bo Kaap tour to the Indigenous sharing their cultures, we highlight South Africa's diverse cultures, 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.

Sustainable Highlights from South to North

Get up close & personal with cheetahs while giving back as a volunteer at a conservation project in South Africa's Cape Winelands. Carbon removals included!

[14+ days] Cheetah Conservation in the Cape Winelands

Get up close and personal with cheetahs while giving back as a volunteer at a conservation project in South Africa's Cape Winelands.  

If you love big cats and are genuinely curious about conservation and making a positive impact, this experience is for you! You will play an important part in supporting the work of the cheetah sanctuary and be given wonderful opportunities to learn about and experience these incredible creatures. 

Conservation culture is integral to South Africa and core to this cheetah sanctuary, located just 45 minutes outside Cape Town. By volunteering at the sanctuary, you will be involved in not only the care for the non-releasable cheetahs but also for those destined for a wild and free life. 

Get hands-on experience caring for cheetahs

Stay in the most beautiful part of Cape Town, in the famed Cape Winelands

Work with wildlife biologists and conservation professionals

Forge new friendships with other volunteers from around the world

Become part of a team passionate about conservation 

Participate in long-term animal behavioral studies

Assist with Educational Tours for the public as a “shadowing guide” 

Cape Town is frequently acknowledged and awarded as being one of the world’s most beautiful places and a must-see destination.

South Africa

Women-Only Sisterhood Journey in South Africa

South African Gastronomy Tour

Cape Winelands & South African Art

Wellness, Wine & Safari in South Africa

Sustainable Highlights from South to North

Cheetah Conservation in the Cape Winelands

South Africa Cape to Coast Self-Drive

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