Nature

When you’re in South Africa, you never have to look too far for things to do.  Simply book one of our adventure activities and slap on some sunscreen.  With beaches, mountains, and bush to choose from, and a beautiful climate, you’ll be spoilt for choice.

Once you can convince the family to turn off the screens and head outside, you can often find a range of outdoor activities within less than a two-hour drive.  Or you could make a weekend of it by driving or flying a bit further and experiencing adventure activities in a different part of South Africa.

The Bucket List Genie understands the importance of encouraging youngsters to spend time outside, burn energy, and live their best life.  Time spent outdoors is never wasted, as it piques the curiosity and stimulates a sense of wonder for the beautiful world we call home and its inhabitants.

That’s why she has negotiated some creative ways for you to get there if you don’t want to drive, which gives you the option to take in the sights and sounds of our beautiful country by small plane, helicopter, gyrocopter or microlight.
If you enjoy animal encounters, you could visit an elephant sanctuary, or go on a safari in the bushveld.  You will be filled with wonder as you observe these majestic animals in their natural habitat.  A wildlife photography course is the perfect way to capture this intimate experience forever.

We have a number of horse riding adventures and ziplining, scootours, Segway gliding through the winelands, quad biking, or river rafting options available too.  All these adventures take place in some of our country’s most spectacular natural settings where you can enjoy the fresh air and soak up the sunshine.

What are you waiting for?  Grab the family, the camera and sunscreen and let’s head outdoors!

  • No visit to Gauteng is complete without an airboat adventure on the Crocodile River.  Our exhilarating ride and slide experience kicks off from Mogi Adventures on the banks of the Crocodile River, right off the R 512 (Malibongwe Drive), Broederstroom, Hartbeespoort.  Your guides will provide a pre-departure safety briefing before you board your airboat and set off to explore the beautiful Magaliesberg gorges located in the upper Crocodile river and down into the magnificent Harties.  Enjoy feeling the wind in your hair and the sun on your face as the airboat skims the surface of the water and zips down the river.  From this unique vantage point, you will see new and unique plants and wildlife while your guide regales you with fun facts about the area.
    • Allow 30 minutes for this experience.  Please arrive 15 minutes before your activity.
    • Guiding is available in English, German & French.
    • This ticket is for one person and forms part of a group (maximum 6).
    • Rides take place every weekend, subject to minimum numbers,
    • Airboating is weather dependent.
    • Dress in layers, take sun precautions and prepared to get slightly wet from spray coming off the water. Cameras may be taken at your own risk.
  • Guests are guided on foot through The Elephant Sanctuary. Guides will provide in-depth information and insight into African elephants. You will be introduced to our elephants in the forest area, and here you will be able to touch and interact with the elephants. You will see the special relationship that the elephant handlers share with their elephants and become a part of it. Walk trunk-in-hand with the elephants. See the stables where the elephants sleep at night. Guests learn about elephant anatomy and are able to feed them. Enjoy a drink in our Coffee Shop and visit our curio shop. Remember to wear flat walking shoes, sun hats and bring your camera. The 08h00 Elephant Experience includes brushing the elephants down. Need to Know -
    • Location | Hartbeespoort Dam, Magaliesberg
    • Who | This experience is for an adult who is reasonably fit.
    • Numbers | This experience is for one person forms part of a group.
    • Duration | Allow up to 90 minutes for this experience.
  • Canopy Tours involve sliding from one high level forest platform to another along a steel cable suspended up to thirty metres above the forest floor. The tours consist of about ten platforms and slides that zig-zag down through a pristine forested valley or ancient rocky gorge. Two trained guides accompany the tour and ensure the safety of each group while also pointing out any interesting plants, birds or animals along the way. The Canopy Tour begins with a safety briefing at the canopy office. Here your guides will first demonstrate how to slide on the cables and the safety procedures to be followed on the tour, before kitting you up with full body harness, pulley, climbing equipment and safety helmet. You and your group will then be transported into the forest or up to the mountain in an open vehicle to the start of the canopy tour. This activity is for one person and takes place in most provinces, 7 days per week, subject to availability and ideal weather conditions. Cape Canopy Tours is excluded from this offer.   Celestial Gifts is the booking agent for this activity.  Please contact Celestial Gifts to make your booking.
  • Experience a desert like quad biking adventure in the incredible Atlantis Dunes located 50km outside of Cape Town, boasting over 20km² of sand based terrain. Our Guided Tours take you through these open dunes that are very reminiscent of those found in the Namibian desert, with beautiful white sand and dunes undulated by the wind. Our Guided Tours take you around on an hour long session that shows you all the beauty of the dunes, in a fun and free flowing ride. Book your quad bike adventure in the dunes now! 
  • Head to Cullinan, a quaint miner’s village near Pretoria for this unforgettable adventure combo and overnight for two.  Your experience starts with getting set up for your adventure combo experience. Starting with a Zipline slide, you'll then try your hand at archery before enjoying a game drive through the protected area. Showcasing some 16 species of antelope, you're certain to have some good sightings. Finish off your experience with a casual pizza lunch before heading to check in at Cullinan Diamond Lodge for your overnight stay in a luxury room with a hearty breakfast included the next day.
  • Does your love put you on the top of the world? Show him or her just how much you value precious one-on-one time with this special helicopter hop complete with champagne mountain stop for two. It can make for a great birthday or anniversary gift, a lovely setting for a romantic proposal, or 'just because' date experience. Departing from Krugersdorp Airport, your helicopter will transport you to a mountain top that provides spectacular views. You will have thirty minutes to sip on champagne, declare your love, or to simply take in the views before boarding the helicopter for your return trip.
    • Please note that this experience is weather dependent.
    • Includes 20 minutes flying time, 30 minutes mountain stop and champagne for two.
    • Helicopter lands on top of the Zwartkops Mountains in the Cradle of Humankind, on the property of the Kloofzicht Lodge & Spa.
    • Flights take place throughout the year.
    • Maximum weight limit of 110 kgs per passenger.
    • This is a private flight for two adults.
  • This stunning 4 star private estate is set on the banks of the Crocodile River, just a short commute from Johannesburg and even shorter from Lanseria Airport. Have a drink on the patio with the bubbling weir in the background or kick back on the lawns in front of the willows along the river bank. Experience this unique and beautiful 150 hectare estate. Abandon the restaurant table, distress from the rigors of city life and relax next to the river on a blanket with cushions. Enjoy the peace and serenity of the Crocodile River and leave feeling refreshed and rejuvenated. With only 2 picnic spots allocated per day, you are guaranteed an exclusive and private experience. Our Luxury Romantic Picnic is in unique and absolutely private lover’s retreat on the river and protected from rain and sun by a Bedouin tent or little thatched gazebo. The interiors are designed for romance with a comfortable double bed under a Mosquito net to get close and intimate with our complimentary bubbly or wine and selected drinks, petals and delicious picnic baskets. The very adventurous can swim in the river, so bring swimming gear and takkies. Picnics are from 11h30 to 16h00 or from 16h30 to 21h00. We are flexible with our menus and accommodate people with food allergies offering tasty alternatives.
  • Get in touch with nature in the scenic surroundings of the Walter Sisulu Botanical Gardens, while a photographer captures lasting memories with your family in this 60 minute Botanical Garden Family Photo Shoot experience for up to 10 people. Book today, as space is limited. The hour-long photo shoot includes a maximum of 8-10 family members. After the shoot, all your images will be supplied on a DVD, and the expert photographer will choose 30 images to be edited and delivered to you digitally. You may also purchase optional prints and canvasses containing your images.  Entrance to the Gardens is payable by the client and not included in this package.  Photographer will choose 30 images to be edited but provide all images on DVD.  Optional prints & canvasses available on order at additional cost.
  • At a loss for a romantic experience for two?  This exquisite overnight and classic hot air balloon flight in the Cradle of Humankind is a short distance from Johannesburg and Pretoria, which makes for a quick and effective escape from the city rush.  Ideal for a weekend getaway for two, this experience also makes for a wonderful engagement or wedding gift, loyalty reward, or just because.  Welcome to Kloofzicht Lodge, set among a vista of the Kloofzicht dam. The lodge is located on a small nature reserve which is home to a variety of wildlife and bird life. After a restful overnight stay in an executive suite, wake up before sunrise for an unforgettable classic hot air balloon flight of approximately three hours across the Cradle of Humankind or the Magaliesberg. Sip on champagne as the pilot treats you to magnificent drifts over the water, low-level flying at tree top height, or soaring into the skies, from where you can enjoy panoramic views of the unmatched African landscape. Space is limited and bookings are weather dependent.  This package includes overnight accommodation for two adults sharing (B&B) as well as two hot air balloon tickets.
  • Guests are guided in small groups on foot through the sanctuary.  Guides will provide in-depth information and insight into African elephants. You will be introduced to the elephants in a forest area, and here you will be able to touch and interact with the elephants. You will see the special relationship that the elephant handlers share with their elephants and become a part of it forming your relationship and bond with the elephants. Short walk with the elephants trunk-in-hand. See where the elephants sleep at night in their stables. Guests learn about their anatomy and feed them.
    • Inclusive of Bed and Breakfast at Tuskers B&B - 4 star lodge in bush setting
    • B&B check in time is 15h00-17h00. Check out is 10h00 the next day.
    • Includes: Bed & Breakfast for two adults sharing as well as the elephant interaction program per person.
    • Excludes: Dinner, beverages and any other incidentals.
    • The elephant interaction program takes place at regular intervals throughout the day.
  • Our Gourmet Romantic Picnic is set in a tranquil spot next to the river on a double mattress with pillows and throws under a Caribbean umbrellas. Watch abundant bird life while you enjoy our delicious cuisine and enjoy the beautiful river view. This picnic is suitable for light rain only! Should it rain we relocate you to the pool deck on couches set apart from other guests overlooking the river. This package includes our picnic menu a welcome drink and complimentary bubbly or wine. We are flexible with our menus and accommodate people with food allergies offering tasty alternatives. Picnics are from 11h30 to 16h00 or from 16h30 to 21h00.
  • The helicopter safari and elephant interaction with lunch for two is the perfect gift idea for a corporate or loyalty award incentive, a wedding gift, anniversary celebration, or simply a special date for two. Your scenic helicopter flight will take off from Krugersdorp Airport, and fly you across the Gauteng skies towards Hartbeespoort Dam. Enjoy the amazing scenery, including the landscapes and the beautiful mansions around the dam before heading to a nearby game lodge, where you will experience a once-in-a-lifetime elephant interaction. Back to the lodge, you will have an opportunity to enjoy an a la carte lunch before heading back to the waiting helicopter, which will return you to Krugersdorp airport. This fabulous experience includes an hour of flying time in the helicopter, a 30 minute elephant interaction and an hour in which to grab a quick lunch. Please note that the lunch is at the client's own expense.
  • Take your partner or beloved and saddle up for a lovely hour-long ride on well-trained, calm and obedient horses in the tranquil Bushveld countryside. The horseback trail offers stunning mountain scenery and leads to your secluded riverside champagne breakfast spot in the midst of untamed bush. Picnic blanket; chairs; ice bucket with champagne and still water; wicker basket with chips, dips, muffins, samoosas, beef meat balls, chicken and pineapple kebabs, chicken nuggets, BBQ Pancakes, mini vetkoek with bobootie, mini chicken burgers, salted caramel swiss rolls, kiri cheese and strawberries **Ingredients may vary based on availability** Need to know -
    • This package is for two people only and may form part of a group.
    • Available throughout the year.
    • No experience necessary.
    • Participation is at your own risk.
    • Maximum weight limit per rider is 95kgs
  • See highlights like our Protea Garden and our wastewater treatment plant as you glide through the vineyards and enjoy the fresh air. Tour the vineyards on a Segway PT (Personal Transporter), the coolest two-wheeled way to see the Spier farm. This self-balancing electric vehicle will help you glide through the vineyards, past our Protea Garden and our wastewater treatment plant where we will share some interesting facts. This tour combines a beautiful glide through the farm with some interesting facts about Spier’s Protea Garden and wastewater treatment plant which combines nature, art and technology, creating a space of cleansing and healing for one of our most precious resources. This activity is for one person and takes place in Stellenbosch (CPT), 7 days per week, subject to availability, minimum numbers and ideal weather conditions. Tour times: 9am, 10:30am, 12pm, 1:30pm, 3pm
  • Treat your love to some special one-on-one time in the tranquil surrounds of nature, followed by a romantic overnight stay. This experience is perfect for a unique date night experience, perfect proposal idea, birthday or anniversary celebration, or just because…
    The Private Sunset Safari is an exclusive package for couples wanting to have some romantic alone time on an adventure! Couples are taken out alone on horseback by a guide on an amazing 2 hour wildlife horseback safari. 1 Hour into the trail, the guide stops at a surprise pit stop in nature where a beautiful set up with a bottle of non alcoholic sparkling wine, bunch of flowers, a box of chocolates plus a snack platter is awaiting. (Couples are welcome to bring own alcoholic drinks and additional extras in a backpack). The guide will leave you at the surprise spot for approx 40 mins where after you will ride back to base another 20 mins.
    On returning to the stables, you can then take a slow drive to Château la Mer an exclusive guesthouse (only 10kms away). Chateau Le Mer is an up-market French inspired home, nestled in the quiet suburb of Ifafi in Hartbeespoort. This guesthouse is family owned and managed. They consistently exceed our expectations and provide five star services to our guests.
    Included ~ Private horse ride, picnic, overnight accommodation in a deluxe suite with breakfast the next morning.  Dinner & extra beverages are not included.
    • Maximum weight limit per rider is 95kgs
  • Take a six-minute trip to the top of the Magaliesberg mountain in a modern, safe cable car located in the Magaliesberg World Heritage Site and be transported into a different world. A lovely grassy viewing site offers scenic views across some of the world's oldest mountains and valleys. Once you disembark at the foot of the mountain, head to the 'best dam' 2-hour gourmet snack cruise where you will enjoy a scrumptious selection of traditional South African hot and cold finger and fork gourmet snacks. The boat will travel along the Kosmos foreshore, toward the dam wall and past the zoo and Transvaal Yacht club. From there, it will hit the open waters to Oberon and Eagle's Landing, past Pecanwood and the Dykes of the Islands Estate, followed by Kshane Estate and Sandy Lane Golf Course. This route was planned especially to give you an opportunity to enjoy all the sights of life around the dam, including the beautiful homes and natural scenery whilst enjoying delicious gourmet snacks.
    • Taking place daily.
    • Forms part of a group experience.
    • Beverages are excluded.
    • This ticket allows for one adult.
    • Cableway must be enjoyed in the morning prior to the cruise.
    • Entrance & parking fees to the resort where the boat is moored are excluded. You will, however, receive a R60 per person voucher which you may use towards the bar.
  • The 30 Minute Quad Bike Ride with Bushveld Champagne Picnic for Two is the perfect way to enjoy a day of adventure with your best friend or love interest. Few things create memories and lasting connections as well as adventure does, and blasting along the bush trails on a quad definitely sets the adrenaline in motion. The 30 Minute Quad Bike Ride with Bushveld Champagne Picnic for Two is the perfect adventure date, or adventure proposal idea. Book your 30 Minute Quad Bike Ride with Bushveld Champagne Picnic for Two now. Need to know -
    • No experienced necessary.
    • Suitable for ages 16 and over.
    • This experience is for two people and forms part of a group.
    • Nominal service fee included.
    • Picnic treats are subject to change without notice. Halaal and Vegetarian Friendly.
    • Available throughout the year.
  • Experience the ultimate high with Cape Town's most exhilarating adventure sport - tandem paragliding. Anybody can fly with a highly experienced pilot who has catered to individuals of all ages and weights ranging from 15kgs - 135 kgs, including individuals with disabilities and fear of heights.  Flights are typically launched from Signal Hill or Lion's Head. Enjoy the amazing landscapes, mountain views and sparkling blue ocean from a bird's eye view as you glide almost horizontally through the air at approximately 40 km/hr.If conditions are ideal, you will be offered the opportunity to fly the paraglider yourself.  If you're brave enough, you can even enjoy completely optional aerobatics before landing.
    • All flights are weather dependent.
    • Participation is entirely at your own risk.
    • No experience necessary.
    • Suitable for adults only.
    • Dress for the weather, wear long jeans/trousers and closed shoes.
    • Available throughout the year, subject to pilot availability.
    • Taking place from Lions Head.
    • This package does not include photos.
  • Your romantic experience begins as you ride out with your sweetheart into a beautiful nature reserve, where wildlife is viewed on the ride. The horseback safari will arrive at a surprise picnic spot after 1 hour. We set up a lovely wooden table with non alcoholic sparkling wine, a snack platter, a box chocolates, plus a bunch of flowers. Enjoy your private picnic for approx 40 mins and then ride back to base. We offer a standard platter for picnics - e.g Biltong, Crackers, Cheeses, Dips, Fruit etc - You are welcome to bring any additional food/beverages with you in a backpack.
    Once you are back at the stables, you can then take a slow drive (10kms) to Château la Mer, an exclusive upmarket, French inspired guesthouse, nestled in the quiet suburb of Ifafi in Hartbeespoort. This guesthouse is family owned and managed. They consistently exceed our service expectations and provide a five star service to our guests.
    Horse ride, picnic and overnight accommodation in a deluxe suite with breakfast included.  Dinner and extra beverages are excluded.  Self Drive Only.
    • Maximum weight limit per rider is 95kgs
  • Tired of the same old dinner and movie date?  Looking for something a little more original?  Spoil your love by dedicating a full day of fun, romance, and adventure to togetherness.  There's no better gift than that of companionship, and this Ultimate Adventure Date for Two is the perfect daytime date activity for any special birthday surprise, proposal or just because.  Start off with an hour-long horseback ride in the tranquil countryside, complete with lovely mountain scenery as you wind along the lovely bush trails. After that, it is time to step up the adventure and energy with a 30-minute quad bike ride on the bushveld trails. Our horses are tame and we have quadbikes to suit your level of experience.  After all the outdoors adventure, you will head inside for a special 1 hour-long spa treatment for two. Sit back and relax as the therapists treat you in the calming atmosphere of the Saddle Creek Spa. Your half-day Ultimate Adventure Date for Two will conclude with a private picnic with delightful treats set up in a secluded spot, complete with a picnic basket and champagne chilling in an ice-bucket. Need to know -
    • Pre-booking is essential.
    • Strictly no consumption of alcohol is permitted before the activities.
    • Available throughout the year subject to availability.
    • No experience necessary.
    • Suitable for adults only.
    • Participation is at your own risk.
  • Invite three friends, family members, clients or staff members along for an overnight stay in our luxurious exquisite Houseboat situated within the grounds of the Emerald Casino On the Vaal.  The luxury Houseboat is the first of its kind to grace the peaceful Vaal River and she is equipped with everything you need to enjoy a memorable stay. It's like staying in a deluxe hotel suite, but it's floating on the water.  Luxury cabins are equipped with en-suite facilities, plug points, TVs, and a geyser provides hot water.  Enjoy a sunset braai on the deck and let your eyes feast on the pristine natural scenery while sipping on something refreshing under the starry skies.
    • This package includes one night only and is self-catering for up to 4 adults sharing. Terms & Conditions Apply.
    • Please note that the houseboat remains stationary during the duration of your stay and is not 100% water safe for toddlers.
    • NB ~ A ‘refundable’ security deposit of R2,000 is payable upfront. This will be refunded back to the client should there be nothing missing or damaged.
             
  • Enjoy a fabulous ride on horse-back along Cape Town’s famous Long Beach. After being matched to the correct horse in terms of your ability and receiving a short safety brief, you will saddle up and walk at a relaxed pace from the stables through a nature reserve and towards Long Beach. As you approach Long Beach you will hear the thundering of the waves crashing as well as the loud sound of summer insects. The bird life is vast as you walk through the conservation area and you will start to feel your stress ebb. Once you are on the beach the group will split into those who wish to canter and those who wish to remain at a walking pace. Your path will follow along the shoreline towards the direction of Hout Bay. Head up for harder sand and open into a canter. This beach ride isn’t just for tourists it’s highly recommended for locals as well. Experience the adrenaline of riding horse-back and enjoy the awesome scenery and fresh air. This activity is for one person and takes place in Noordhoek (CPT), 6 days per week, subject to availability and ideal weather conditions. No experience necessary. There is a very strict weight limit of 95 kgs so as to safeguard the horses back. All riders must be in good health and over the age of 12.
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