Cool Things to do Outdoors in JHB and CPT
Bored of your usual work out routine and looking to do something new and interesting? We’ve rounded up a few fun activities to get up up and at ’em in and around Cape Town and Johannesburg.
CAPE TOWN
Yogahike
Yogahike is the brainchild of veteran Yoga teacher and nature-lover, Claudia Uffhaus. Claudia has spent substantial time exploring the mountains of Cape Town, and runs guided hikes at different locations which culminate in a 1 hour Yoga class at a carefully selected location – overlooking the ocean, nestled in a forest, on the beach – each venue is a beautiful surprise. A long relaxation is then followed by a short picnic, leaving the group serene and refreshed as they head back down to base. Truly a magical experience. (Opener pic courtesy of Micky Wiswedal)
072 490 9881 | yogahike8@gmail.com | Facebook
Kaskazi Kayak Trips
Picture courtesy of Kaskazi Kayaks
For over a decade now, the team at Kaskazi has been running ocean kayak trips from Seapoint, Cape Town. The tours move at an easy pace along a coastline renowned for its dolphins, whales and seals, at least one of which you are likely to come across as you head towards Granger Bay. A two-hour paddle in the salty ocean breeze is an invigorating way to start the day, and coupled with awe-inspiring views of Table Mountain, it makes for a picturesque outdoor activity. No previous experience is required.
Seal Snorkelling
This is an extraordinary adventure – the kind you’ll never forget. They’re run by marine biologist Steve Benjamin of Animal Ocean, who has made it his mission to share the magic and diversity of Cape Town’s marine life. Guests are taken by boat to Duiker Island near Hout Bay, which is home to a colony of several thousand Cape Fur seals. Here, you can snorkel in crisp waters with hundreds of playful seals, which range from inquisitive pups to fully-grown bulls. Typically a 3 hour round trip, weather dependent.
072 2969132 | info@animalocean.co.za | animalocean.co.za
CAPE TOWN & JOHANNESBURG
Secret Sunrise Events
Picture courtesy of Lee-Ann Olwage
“The founding principle of Secret Sunrise events is to make us better people,” says co-founder Sebastian Davies. “It’s a chance to dance, play and express ourselves freely before heading off into our respective realities, so that we start our days happier, more energised, more present.” These events are taking Cape Town and Johannesburg by storm, with droves of early-risers meeting at ‘secret’ locations at sunrise to dance to upbeat tunes on wireless headphones. An MC prompts the crowd throughout, and the session ends with a mindful reflection to send you off renewed and in high spirits.
Cape Town Facebook | Johannesburg Facebook | secretsunrise.com
JOHANNESBURG
White Water Rafting
Picture courtesy of Awie van den Berg
Just 45 minutes from the centre of Johannesburg is some of the best white water rafting in the country. Dimalachite River Lodge in the Vredefort Dome World Heritage Site runs mild to wild river rafting trips down eight major rapids on the Vaal River. Trips are around 4 hours long and include scenic views and a refreshing swim. Picnic and braai facilities are available, and no previous experience is required.
056 818 1860/1/2 | linda@dimalachtie.co.za
Hennops Hiking and MTB Trail
Just outside the City of Gold lies endless hectares of hiking heaven: the famous Hennops hiking and MTB trails. Hennops is steeped in history and alive with a stunning variety of birdlife and grazing kudu. Hikes of varying levels of difficulty stretch along the Hennops River, and the 16km MTB trail provides options ranging from adrenaline junkie to amateur cyclist. Hikes and cycles start at Hadeda Camp, where visitors can return after their exercise for a picnic and a splash in the Hennops swimming pool.
082 825 9205 | hubert@hennops.co.za
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