DAY 1Johannesburg

Leaving the JOHANNESBURG INN at 09h00. We head eastward via Harrismith to our first stop overlooking the magnificent Sterkfontein Dam. After a brief discussion on the Vaal/Tugela water scheme, we continue to Retiefklip where we cover some of the more recent history of South Africa. After a 4x4 transfer to our final stop for the day. The DRAKENSBERG INN, we will do a short walk and will prepare for the following days of hiking.

DAY 2 - 4Drakensberg Hiking

After a short drive, we begin our 3-day hike into the natural wilderness area of the Berg. Each day we cover approx. 15 km with steep gradients, and clients need to be fit. As once stated there is only one way out. Sleeping at night is in caves and each participant must carry his share of the supplies. Topics covered on the hike will include mountain fauna and flora, mountain leadership, and general hiking techniques. On day 4 we return to the campsite for a welcome shower.

DAY 5Dolphin Coast

An early start, we head directly to the coastal town of Umdloti We will spend a night at the DOLPHIN COAST INN and will cover various aspects of coastal ecology and marine biology.

DAY 6 - 7Zululand Bush Camp

Leaving the coast, we begin our journey through the hills of rural Zululand to the ZULULAND CAMP. Situated in a private reserve bordering False Bay, this Inn provides the ideal base for exploring the diversity of Zululand. The two days will be spent visiting Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Game Reserve, walking in False Bay

DAY 8 - 9Swaziland

Traveling north, we enter the Kingdom of the Swazi where we spend a full day on the Great Usutu River learning the guiding skills of kayaking and rafting. We camp for the two nights.

DAY 10Kruger Park

Leaving Swaziland, we enter the Kruger Park, home to some of Africa's most incredible wildlife. Our entire day will be spent viewing animals in their natural environment. Tonight we camp in one of the parks rest camps, where we may have the option of a night drive. (own expense)

DAY 11Hazyview

After an early morning game drive in the park, we exit and travel the short distance to the HAZYVIEW INN. The afternoon will be spent studying birds and butterflies in the sub-tropical riverine forest surrounding the Inn.

DAY 12 - 15Balule Game Reserve

These last days of the course will be spent in the bushveld of Balule, a private game reserve bordering the Kruger Park. This is big 5 country, and our time here will be spent learning about animal tracks(spoor), trees, birds and many other aspects of nature. We will visit the Swadini Reptile Park for an in-depth course on reptiles, and will conduct lessons in firearms, 4x4 driving, abseiling and other interesting subjects necessary for field guiding. It is here also that we conduct the final exam, which will cover all of the subjects learned during the course.

DAY 16Johannesburg

Today we head back to Johannesburg via the Bourkes Luck Potholes, BIyde River Canyon and Pilgrims Rest. We arrive in the evening, far healthier and wiser for the experience.

Subjects covered in the course will give a very good insight into life in the bush, and participants will be issued with a certificate after successful completion of the course. Malaria precautions are necessary, as are certain essential items of equipment, i.e. backpack and well-worn, comfortable walking shoes. Price includes transport ex Johannesburg, food, accommodation, park entry fees and professional instructor. Price does not include soft drinks, alcohol and meals whilst in transit.

This course departs from Johannesburg monthly on a Monday during 2002.

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