Before making the way home, a stop at the Gamtoos Nursery is made, where a stroll among the vibrant plants and some delightful food and drinks are indulged in. It is the perfect way to end the day – surrounded by nature’s beauty, enjoying good food, and reflecting on the incredible adventure just experienced.
This Baviaanskloof day trip is a journey through time, history, and the wild beauty of the Eastern Cape’s landscapes. For those looking for an experience that offers both adventure and serenity, this is one journey not to be missed.
More information
Ready to embark on the next adventure? Get in touch with Baviaans 4×4 Tours to book a guided 4×4 tour through the majestic Baviaanskloof. Contact Kok at 082 774 1805 or 072 377 2525. Alternatively, send an email to kobuskok@vodacom.co.za.
1-Day trip: Patensie to Smitskraal Picnic Spot
Baviaans 4×4 Tours offers a day trip from Patensie to the Smitskraal picnic spot. The journey takes about 4 hours to reach Smitskraal and around 3 hours for the return trip.
Along the way, the guide shares the rich history of the area, introducing guests to the indigenous trees. As the route ascends, the landscape transforms into fynbos, with sugar bushes and proteas dotting the terrain. A stop at Bergplaas allows for a tea or coffee break and a view of Winston le Roux’s famous cable crossing the gorge.
The trip continues past Doodsklip and Rooihoek, ending at Smitskraal. On the return journey to Patensie, guests can keep an eye out for wildlife, such as kudus and bushbucks.
Rate: R1500 per person (minimum 3 people).
Vehicle: Toyota Prado, seats 4 adults.
2-Day trip: Patensie to Willowmore via Baviaans Wilderness
This 2-day adventure begins with a scenic drive from Patensie through the Baviaans Wilderness, heading to overnight accommodation in the Baviaans Valley.
Guests can choose between staying at a guesthouse or in a cave, with both self-catering and B&B options available.
The tour pauses for tea and cookies along the way, followed by a picnic at Smitskraal, then continues over Grasnek Pass, exiting at the western gate of the reserve and heading to a guest farm for the night.
On the second day, the journey proceeds to Willowmore, with stops before returning to Patensie via Uniondale and Langkloof.
Rate: R1500 per person, per day (minimum 3 people).
Vehicle: Toyota Prado, seats 4 adults.
3-Day Trip: Baviaans Wilderness and beyond
For a deeper experience, Baviaans 4×4 Tours offers a 3-day journey through the heart of the Baviaans Wilderness. The first day takes guests through the valley with stops for tea, cookies, and a picnic at Smitskraal. After crossing Grasnek Pass, the tour reaches the night’s accommodation, which can be either a guest farm or a cave.
The second day is filled with exploration, including a hike through a gorge and a visit to Zewefontein’s wild fig forest. The second night is spent in the same accommodation.
On the third day, the trip continues to Willowmore for breakfast and more sightseeing, before returning to Patensie via Uniondale and Langkloof.
Rate: R1500 per person, per day (minimum 3 people).
Vehicle: Toyota Prado, seats 4 adults.
