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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

Discover self-guided tours and choose your own departure date to enjoy autonomous sustainable adventures solo, with a partner, or a group of friends. Customization possible!

Self-Guided Tours | Yugen Earthside | Sustainable Adventures

Self-Guided Trips: Convenient + Autonomous

If you consider yourself an independent traveler, but you'd appreciate the convenience of having somebody else plan everything out for you... self-guided trips are the ticket!

A local expert handles all of the pre-departure planning, organization, and booking minutiae. You'll have complete autonomy during your trip, and while you won't have a third-party guide physically present, you will have trip support (in English!) just a phone call away.

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.

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. 

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.

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).

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

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 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.

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.

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 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 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.

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 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

Explore Romania's Danube Delta and discover an aquatic and ecological paradise as you drift down the river in a motorboat. Carbon removals included!

[5 days] Drift Down the Danube Delta by Motorboat | Yugen Earthside

Explore Romania's Danube Delta and discover an aquatic and ecological paradise as you drift down the river in a motorboat.

The Danube Delta is a biosphere reserve home to thousands of spectacular wildlife and plant species. It features immense stretches of sand, reed-covered lakes, willow tree-lined canals, and wild beaches. With its well-preserved traditions and picturesque houses, the Danube Delta has always drawn visitors. Meander along, spotting wild horses and myriad birds, tasting the mouth-watering dishes, and listening to the sound of the omnipresent waves.

On this self-guided tour, you'll be taken by a motorboat, steered by a local fisherman, and have leisure time to canoe, fish, swim in the Black Sea, and soak up the atmosphere of the Delta.

Immerse yourself in the culture of Tulcea, the gateway city to the Delta

Enjoy the wetlands, culinary delights, and cultural heritage of Crisan

Admire colonies of birds and aquatic wildlife at the Sulina Branch distributary

Experience the magic of the "forgotten by God" village of Letea

The Danube Delta is the second-largest delta in Europe. The reserve is mostly located in Romania, with 20% of it in Ukraine. It's considered special for its wilderness and for becoming a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Having an intricate pattern of channels and lakes, it is considered the European paradise of flora and fauna with 12,000 kinds of plants and 250 species of migratory birds. Expect to see forests of willow trees and groups of pelicans and egrets.

We recommend taking this trip anytime from March to October.

The Danube Delta is most spectacular in spring, especially in late April and early May. This is the period when nature comes back to life. The first aquatic plants appear, the banks are filled with wildflowers, the reeds regenerate, and the trees turn green. The weather is usually mild. This is a perfect time for nature enthusiasts and those who appreciate the tranquility of the riverbanks.

Note: Springtime can sometimes bring higher water levels and flooding in some areas due to rain and snowmelt.

Summer in the Danube Delta can be hotter and busier with larger crowds. Additionally, the summer months bring longer days so you’ll have plenty of daylight for seeing the incredible sites and cities. Summer months have some of the hottest temperatures ranging from 68-95°F. (20-35°C).

The autumn months bring a special charm to the Danube River. The weather remains pleasant, and you'll witness the region's stunning fall foliage. Temperatures range from 50-68°F (10-25°C). We recommend bringing layers and warmer, waterproof jackets as temperatures can get cooler during the evening and morning times. 

Transfers between Bucharest & Tulcea (on request)

Motorized boat ride or kayak ride in Sulina (on request)

4 nights' accommodation: 2 nights in Crisan and 2 nights in Sulina

4 breakfasts, 2 picnic lunches, 2 dinners 

2 days of guided motorized boat rides on D2 & D3

Prices are in Euros. Pricing in USD will be provided upon inquiry and added to your trip payment link.

Train transfer from Bucharest to Tulcea: 25 €

Bus transfer from Bucharest to Tulcea: 33 €

Private transfer from Bucharest to Tulcea (1-3 people; Inquire for vans for 4-6 people): 290 € 

Extra nights in Bucharest or Tulcea (double room): 43 € 

Extra nights in Bucharest or Tulcea (single room): 80 €

Guided kayak ride (3h), in Sulina on D4 (min. 2 people): 35 € 

Motorized boat ride (2h) in Sulina on D4 (min. 2 people): 45 € 

Minimum of three people. Contact us for groups of two or for solo traveler pricing.

We are a certified partner of the Association of Ecotourism in Romania. Our philosophy has always been to encourage traveling as much as possible by non-motorized means and mostly off the beaten path, to try and avoid the mainstream and bring out the authenticity.

We constantly highlight the need for recycling, the use of biodegradable or reusable objects (food boxes, water bottles, etc.), and local food supply in particular. This walking tour is a low-carbon impact activity that connects you with our nature. You will take a train from Bucharest to get closer to your starting point for the walk.

All our partners are Romanians who work independently for the development of their country, the type of circuit that we carry gives work on average to about fifteen local providers in the region. We help you travel on less-popular roads where your presence will support local communities more.

We are committed to promoting and explaining the cultural and artisanal productions of the regions we visit. Furthermore, we only work with independent artisans & craftsmen whose respect for traditional know-how is wildly recognized.

You'll be staying primarily in guesthouses run by local families we've worked with for years, and eating homemade dishes. Tourism truly helps their families and communities to thrive. 

Choose your own departure date on any Mon, Wed, Sat, or Sun from March to October.

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.

With the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop, the city does have something to offer everyone: beaches, mountains, adventure, natural beauty, world-class tourism facilities, nightlife, history, culture, fine dining, art, festivals, wine, a variety of accommodation, shopping, markets, unique and colorful neighborhoods with warm people - Cape Town is a diverse city reaady to excite and entertain.

The highly acclaimed Cape Winelands routes and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl form a large portion of the Cape Winelands, with grape cultivation dating back to the 1600s. Stellenbosch was the first to establish a wine route through the farms and is the second oldest town in South Africa. Franschhoek, which boasts more than 40 extraordinary wine cellars, is rich in vineyards dating back to the settling of the Huguenots who brought their French wine-making skills to South Africa over 300 years ago.

Volunteering can start on any day of the week.

The duration of volunteering must be at least 2 weeks long.

Volunteers can range from 18-75 years old and should be in good physical health. Day-to-day tasks in the summer can be tiring.

No special skills are required. Training will be provided. All you need to have is a curiosity for wildlife, be teachable, and have a keen interest in conservation and leaving a positive impact.

We have an Application process that requires two references. Only after references are checked, and if there is availability for your preferred date, will your application be approved. Please do not book your flight before we confirm your application. 

You must be Covid-19 vaccinated as the disease can be transferrable to big cats.

South Africa is a year-round destination, with varying regional climates and wildlife opportunities.

The best time to visit South Africa is from May to September, as the cooler winter months in the northern regions bring superb conditions for viewing big game. It can be rainy from November to February, but this is the best time to travel for birding, and temperatures remain warm at 22°C to 33°C. February is the hottest time of the year with high temperatures into the 30's degrees. 

The Cape has beautiful, hot, dry weather in its summer months (between November and February), with temperatures between 23°C and 26°C. The best time to visit the Cape for whale watching is between July and November.

2-weeks of accommodation in a modern volunteer house (own room)

Transfers from and to Cape Town International Airport 

All meals during the week (weekends, lunch & dinner on own account)

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. 

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 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.

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 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.

Cheetah Conservation in the Cape Winelands

Romania’s breathtaking landscapes and castles await you on this 8-day self-guided walking trip through the Carpathian Mountains. Carbon removals included!

[8 days] Carpathian Mountains & Castles | Yugen Earthside

Romania’s breathtaking landscapes and castles await you on this 8-day self-guided walking trip through the Carpathian Mountains.

Reconnect with nature and encounter rare local flora and fauna. Trek to see gorges, clearings, and woods. A visit to “Dracula’s Castle”, laden with a long and storied past, also adds to the uniqueness of this trip. 

Walking around traditional villages, where time seems to have stopped, and exploring the 14th-century Bran Castle, the castle that inspired the story of Dracula, you will go back in time and learn about Romania’s rich past. Multiple hikes will unveil the natural beauty of this pastoral country, present in its mountains, gorges, meadows, and cliffs.

Walk to the mountain hut of Curmatura and Zarnesti gorges

Explore the outstanding “Dracula Castle”

Trek in the National Park of Piatra Craiului

Your trip will be an immersive cultural experience emphasizing both the nature and food of Romania. Relish an exquisite home-cooked soup and pie at the authentic mountain hut of Curmatura. Pass through villages boasting a long-standing tradition of cheese making (and if you encounter shepherds, ask them to try their cheese!). Stay in a guesthouse and enjoy the opportunity to experience local traditions up close.

This self-guided walking holiday through the Carpathian Mountains is perfect for independent travelers. If you’d like to have a guide or join a small group of other travelers, check out this similar trip.

The country’s rich history and stunning landscapes are much enjoyed if traveling in spring and summer. Mild temperatures allow pleasant walks around the villages and hikes along breathtaking settings.

This trip is available from April to October. Sometimes snow lingers through April or May, and it can arrive as early as October. This may affect the last day of hiking on this itinerary. If that is the case, we will replace this activity with a transfer to Brasov for an overnight in the city.

Transport to the starting point and from the final point (Bucharest North Train Station)

One-Way Private Transfers (1-3 people; Inquire for vans for 4-6 people):

Bucharest OTP Airport to train station/city center: $40

Extra night in Bucharest OR Brasov, in a 3* hotel, shared room OR private room:
$95 per person per night

We constantly highlight the need for recycling, the use of biodegradable or reusable objects (food boxes, water bottles, etc.), and local food supply in particular. This walking tour is a low-carbon impact activity that connects you with our nature. You will take a train from Bucharest just to get closer to your starting point for the walk.


All our partners are Romanians who work independently for the development of their country, the type of circuit that we carry gives work on average to about fifteen local providers in the region. We help you travel on less-popular roads where your presence will support local communities more.


We are committed to promoting and explaining the cultural and artisanal productions of the regions we visit. Furthermore, we only work with independent artisans & craftsmen whose respect for traditional know-how is wildly recognized.
You'll be staying primarily in guesthouses run by local families we've worked with for years, and eating homemade dishes. Tourism truly helps their families and communities to thrive.

A Cape to Coast self-drive along South Africa's Garden Route, enjoying the Cape Winelands, safaris, the Featherbed eco trail, & more. Carbon removals included!

[11 days] South Africa Cape to Coast Self-Drive | Yugen Earthside

A Cape to Coast self-drive along South Africa's Garden Route, enjoying the Cape Winelands, safaris, the Featherbed eco-trail, and more. 

From wild coastlines to hidden gems, this epic, well-balanced, 11-day odyssey is packed with thrills, breathtaking views, and unforgettable experiences. 

First, you'll spend 4 days in Cape Town soaking up the city's vibrancy. Then, you'll embark on your road trip from days 5 to 11. The circular journey combines comfort with excitement and seamlessly blends the Garden Route's natural splendor, Big 5 animal encounters, and the Whale Coast's untamed beauty.

From urban luxuries to wildlife adventures, this itinerary of South Africa's diverse wonders promises the best experiences.

Enjoy privately guided Cape Peninsula & Cape Winelands Tours

Drive along Route 62, the longest wine route in the world

Experience a Meerkat Safari, Cango Caves, & an Ostrich Farm

Walk the Featherbed eco-trail along the stunning Garden Route

See the whale-watching towns from your Glamping spot 

Go in search of the Big 5 (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, buffalo) on a private game reserve

South Africa boasts a 3,000 km coastline with wide, vast landscapes to be explored. The Cape to Coast journey will start you off in the diverse metropolis of Cape Town city center filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and a chic waterfront. 

The highly acclaimed Cape Winelands routes and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. Your journey continues along the well-known Route 62 in South Africa’s beautiful Klein Karoo, to the charming town of Oudtshoorn, known as the ostrich capital of the world. Learn about the ostrich feather boom and visit the world-renowned Cango Caves, the largest cave system in Africa featuring ancient rock formations and sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. 

The Garden Route is the most beautiful stretch along the East Coast. Sandwiched between the towering Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is a large town often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden’, surrounded by stunning bays perfect for sailing, boating, and swimming; picturesque beaches and lagoons; and world-renowned forests.

Set in the heart of the Garden Route, the luxury safari destination features an array of wonderful activities to look forward to including day and night game drives, horse riding excursions through lush woodlands and diverse fynbos, and spotting a variety of wildlife including the rare black impala, elephant, lion, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hippo, and over 200 bird species.

You will circle back from the Garden Route along the Whale Coast, the rugged stretch of South African coastline, snaking along the Atlantic Ocean and encompassing the towns of Kleinmond, Hermanus, Stanford, and Gansbaai. The route is backed by fynbos-covered mountains and includes farms, rivers, caves, and valleys. Between June and October, and especially over August, September, and October, the humpback or southern right whales that come here to mate and give birth can be seen frolicking offshore. The Whale Festival, held annually in September in Hermanus, is a special event featuring live music, markets, and much more.

From May to September, the cooler winter months in the northern regions bring superb conditions for viewing big game animals.

The best time to visit the Cape for whale watching is between July and November.

Summer is from November to February. The northern part of the country is rainy yet warm, ranging from 72°F to 91°F (22°C to 33°C); this is the best time to travel for birding. During the summer months, the Western Cape has beautiful, hot, dry weather, with temperatures between 73°F to 79°F (23°C and 26°C).

10-nights of accommodation (4* hotel x4, boutique guest house x1, 4* beachfront resort x2, 4* private game lodge x2, glamping tent x1)

Transfer from Cape Town International Airport to hotel

Meerkat Safari, Cango Caves, Ostrich Farm visits

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

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.    

In some cases, we make use of larger operators with a strong ethos in supporting local community initiatives. With this trip in particular, we use the hotel at the V&A Waterfront for two reasons. First and foremost, the hotel forms part of Legacy Group Hotels & Resorts. Legacy Pride is their registered Non-Profit Company and the official Corporate Social Responsibility Programme for Legacy Hotels & Resorts. To fight the scourge of world hunger and malnutrition, Legacy Pride is on a mission to provide vulnerable children with highly-nutritional food products and has fed millions since 2020.

Secondly, the hotel is on the doorstep of the Waterfront which means for the four days in the city, guests can walk to attractions. From here, visitors can use public transport like the hop-on-hop-off bus, and water taxis, in including Uber to see the city, which leaves a smaller carbon footprint.   
 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.

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. 

Enjoy a self-guided bike ride through the hills of Transylvania, and discover the rich heritage of this mysterious and spectacular land. Carbon removals included!

[8 days] Discovering Transylvania’s Heritage by Bike

Enjoy a self-guided bike ride through the hills of Transylvania, and discover the rich heritage of this mysterious and spectacular land.

This trip will take you into the Carpathian Mountains and Transylvania’s hills. Transylvania is famous thanks to Bram Stoker’s legend of Dracula, and well-known for its forests which provide shelter for many species of wild plants and animals. Surrounded by the Carpathian Mountains, Transylvania was a much sought-for land. The Saxons arrived here in the 11th century to guard the Carpathian Mountain passes between Transylvania and Wallachia against the Tatars and the Ottomans. This is just a hint of the rich heritage that you will discover during this entire trip. An exceptional holiday is waiting for you!

Visit the Fagara Mountains, the highest in Romania, and the Bear Sanctuary

Reveal the hidden secrets of the Cistercian monastery ruins in Carta

Cycle through the lovely villages of Biertan and Richis

Appreciate a UNESCO heritage site, the fortified church of Biertan

Roam the ancient streets of the medieval citadel of Sighisoara

Savor home-made meals at local guesthouses

Immerse yourself in the captivating legends, awe-inspiring landscapes, warm hospitality, and fascinating historical ambiance of this magical region. Prepare for an extraordinary adventure that will leave a lasting impression. Pedal through the breathtaking hills of Transylvania, enjoying invigorating exercise along the way. Cycling through this region provides diversity in terms of taking you through cultural sites as well as several small nature reserves. Further, nature in the region is hardly touched by chemicals which draws nature lovers seeking to enjoy the beautiful pastoral landscapes.

We recommend taking this trip anywhere from the end of April to the beginning of October. During this period, the weather is most favorable for outdoor activities, and the region offers a variety of natural and cultural experiences. 

In April, spring begins in Transylvania, bringing mild temperatures and longer daylight hours. The countryside comes alive with blooming flowers and lush greenery, providing a picturesque setting for cycling. The weather is generally pleasant, with moderate temperatures and lower chances of rain compared to summer. 

From June to August, the warm and sunny weather of summer attracts many cyclists. The longer days offer ample time for extended trips and exploration of the vibrant landscapes. During this time, you can also take part in local food festivals and events that showcase the region's culinary delights. 

In September and October, autumn sets in, offering mild and pleasant weather for cycling. The foliage that transforms into a stunning display of colors creates a lovely backdrop for your rides. Autumn also brings the harvest season, allowing you to savor local produce and experience traditional practices. 

In-person welcome and briefing in Bucharest North station

Airport transfers (Day 1 & 8: Bucharest airport / Bucharest train station)

Private transfer on Day 1: Brasov / Zarnesti  

Self-Guided

Self-Guided Trips: Convenient + Autonomous

Sustainable Highlights from South to North

Drift Down the Danube Delta by Motorboat

Cheetah Conservation in the Cape Winelands

Carpathian Mountains & Castles

South Africa Cape to Coast Self-Drive

Discovering Transylvania’s Heritage by Bike

Scuba 'Dive & Stay' Certification Package - Galapagos Islands

Scotland by Train

Sustainable Scuba 'Dive & Stay' Package - Egypt

Hiking in the Luberon National Park

Hiking from the Hilltop Villages to the French Riviera

Hiking the Wine Trails of Provence

Walking Tour: Heart & Soul of Douro Valley

Walking Tour: Douro & the Côa Valley

Camino: Cycling the Portuguese Coastal Way

Cycling Tour: Alto Minho to Porto

Walking Tour: On the Other Side of Douro

Walking Tour: Portugal's Costa Verde

Hiking in the Southern French Alps

Kenyan Coast for Ocean Lovers

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