Nestled in South Africa’s dramatic Western Cape, Grootbos is a unique natural reserve which delights travelers from all over the world. We can think of many superb reasons to visit Grootbos, but let's start with the Big Five:
1. If You Love History: Grootbos is a living history book, with some of the oldest evidence of human existence on the planet: fascinating Klipgat Caves where archeologists have found human remains dating back an astonishing 70,000 years. South Africa's colonial history dates back to the arrival in the seventeenth century of representatives of the Dutch East India Company. Grootbos's traditions are a unique fusion of local African heritage and strong European influences, as can be felt at the charming Moravian mission station, which was founded in 1824.
2. If You Love Wildlife: Grootbos's magnificent coastal position makes it one of the world's best whale watching venues. From June to December, schools of Southern Right Whales return to the region’s stunning Walker Bay. Basking in the austral summer sunshine, the whales frolic so close to the shoreline that visitors are often showered by the steam of a particularly powerful spout. Grootbos also serves up a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to get up-close-and-personal with a great white shark, in a cage, designed to facilitate safe access to one of the underwater kingdom's most dangerous predators.
3. If You Love Plants: Grootbos is located in the heart of the world's smallest floral kingdom: a poetic moniker for an actual biological qualification. The Cape Floristic Region is home to over 9,000 vascular plant species, the most notable of which is the shrub land fynbos, a major component of the signature Grootbos landscape. Grootbos is a natural preserve with many miles of enjoyable hiking trails through the thousand-year Milkwood forest and along the stunning coastline.
4. If You Love Eco/Adventure Travel: A firm commitment to sustainable tourism that preserves the unique natural wonders of Grootbos is successfully combined with numerous options to enjoy an active exploration of the area. In addition to whale watching, shark cage diving, and hiking the nature trails, Grootbos offers 4x4 floral safaris, horse-riding, quad biking, and bird and penguin watching.
5. If You Crave Luxury Accommodation and Fine Dining: Grootbos is for you! Adjacent to South Africa's wine country, Grootbos makes an ideal base from which to explore the region’s outstanding wines and unique cuisine. Luxurious prize-winning accommodations combine with warm African hospitality to make Grootbos and unforgettable stop of any South African odyssey.
Town and Country voted the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve one of its top five eco lodges, and
National Geographic has designated it a founding member of The Unique Lodges of the World.
Alexander + Roberts include Grootbos on several of our bespoke itineraries to South Africa, including
Journey to South Africa + Victoria Falls. Speak to one of our knowledgeable reservation agents about booking your unforgettable journey to South Africa!