Wild Coast Butterfly Expedition via the Wild Coast 4WD Route (5 Days and 5 Nights)
Focus: This expedition combines butterfly research with 4WD exploration along the Wild Coast, allowing participants to engage in scientific study while experiencing this unique region's natural beauty and challenging terrains.
Day-by-Day Itinerary:
Day 1: Kei Mouth to Trennerys
Distance: 40 km
Travel Time: 4-5 hours
Highlights:
Gxara River Crossing
Ngogwane River Crossing
Activities (if time allows):
Canoeing, Diving, Fishing, Hiking, Horse Riding, Butterfly Watching
Accommodation: Trennerys Hotel
Details: Comfortable accommodations near the Qolora River Mouth, offering activities like beach walks and exploring local culture.
Day 2: Trennerys to Wavecrest
Distance: 50 km
Travel Time: 5-6 hours
Highlights:
Qolora River Crossing 1
Qolora River Crossing 2
Ncizele Upstream Crossing 2 (to avoid high tides)
Khobonqabe alt 2 Crossing
Activities (if time allows):
Bird Watching, Hiking, Kayaking, Fishing, Butterfly Watching
Accommodation: Wavecrest Beach Hotel & Spa
Details: Located on a pristine estuary, Wavecrest provides stunning views and a variety of activities, including nature walks and water sports.
Day 3: Relax at Wavecrest
Activities:
Coastal and Forest Walks, Bird Watching, Marine Life Observation, Spa Treatments, Kayaking, Fishing, Butterfly Watching
Accommodation: Continue staying at Wavecrest Beach Hotel & Spa
Day 4: Wavecrest to Kobs Inn
Distance: 50 km
Travel Time: 5-6 hours
Highlights:
Ngqusi River Crossing
Inxaxo River Crossing
Cebe River Crossing
Gqunqe River Crossing
Ngqwara River Crossing (Options 1 & 2)
Activities (if time allows):
Fishing, Horse Riding, Hiking, Canoeing, Butterfly Watching
Accommodation: Kob Inn Beach Resort
Details: Kobs Inn Beach Resort offers a perfect mixture of Wild Coast hospitality, adventure, and relaxation. The resort also features a bar with panoramic sea views, renowned seafood banquets, and family-friendly amenities.
Day 5: Collywobbles Day Trip
Distance: 80-100 km round trip
Travel Time: 6-8 hours (including exploration)
Activities:
Cape Vulture Colony, Scenic Drives, Butterfly Watching
Accommodation: Return to Kobs Inn to stay the last night, Breakfast next morning optional and final goodbyes
Total Distance and Vehicle Requirements:
Total Distance: Approximately 270-290 km
Vehicle Requirements: 4WD with low-range gears and high ground clearance. Recovery equipment is recommended but not necessary, as guides will provide the necessary equipment.
Emergency Preparations:
Supplies: Emergency water, food, and medical supplies. Prepare for potential bush camping; bring necessary camping gear (tents, sleeping bags). Be prepared for an additional 48 hours.
Guides: Equipped with GPS and satellite phones for communication and navigation.
Expedition Considerations:
Exploratory Nature: Navigating uncharted routes may lead to unexpected situations, requiring preparedness for bush camping and adequate emergency supplies.
Butterfly Research: The primary focus is exploring diverse habitats to study butterfly species, which may necessitate deviations from the planned route.
Pricing Details:
Base Pricing per Vehicle (1/2 passengers): R8,990
Additional Passengers: R300 per passenger
Max vehicles: 12
Included in the Price:
Expert Guides: 4x4 guide, butterfly guide, and a Level 3 first aid personnel.
Equipment Hire: Radio hire, recovery equipment, butterfly research gear.
Maps and Navigation Tools: These are provided by the guides.
Not Included in the Price:
Transport Costs: All Fuel and vehicle maintenance costs .
Food and Beverage: Participants must cater their own meals and drinks.
Accommodation: The average cost for accommodation is approximately R1400 per person per night.
Dates:
December 2024: 1st - 5th
April 2025:11th -15th
April/May 2025: 30th-4th
October 2025: 9th-13th
Booking and Cancellation Policy:
Cancelation more than 60 days before date of the tour:
80% Refund - if you are able to resell your spot to another - 100% refund
Cancelation between 60 and 30 days before date of tour:
65% Refund - if you are able to resell your spot to another - 100% refund
Cancelation between 30 - 15 days before date of tour:
50% Refund - if you are able to resell your spot to another - 100% refund
Cancelation between than 15 -10 days before date of tour:
25% Refund - if you are able to resell your spot to another - 100% refund
Cancelation less than 10 days before date of tour:
10% Refund - if you are able to resell your spot to another - 100% refund