This trip leans more toward moderate walking rather than leisurely due to the terrain which is quite rocky.
The weather the week I was there was clear, sunny, and warm. The countryside was filled with beautiful spring flowers which offset some of my disappointment in the general scenery and the walks through pasture lands where it was sometimes difficult to navigate holes hidden by grass, limestone outcroppings, and cattle paddies.
The Cortijo Rosario was lovely and the staff very welcoming and accommodating. The dinners were very good and the staff very obliging to dietary requests without sacrificing taste or portions of substituted dishes. The only hiccup as far as our stay was being without hot water one evening. I would not mention it as we made do, and no one seemed upset over it, including myself, but I have read in other reviews that the same thing has happened.
Algámitas is a very rural village with very few businesses (take what you will need), but the couple of times we made pre-hike morning stops for coffee at two of the cafes there were nice.
Walking Holidays in South Africa
South Africa Walking Holidays
Top 5 Wildlife Experiences on Walking Holidays South Africa
Game Drive in Kruger National Park: One of the most famous and oldest wildlife parks on earth, Kruger National Park was founded in 1898 by Paul Kruger, the South African president of the time. As you embark on a game drive through Kruger, you’ll have the opportunity to see awesome animals in their natural environment. With the likes of giraffe, hippo, lions and leopards occupying the plains, this is one of the greatest wildlife adventures you’ll ever experience. Setting off early in the morning will optimise your chances of spotting more game and watching the sun rise over the park is simply breath-taking.
Walk in Royal Natal National Park: Home to some of the most impressive mountain scenery in South Africa, Royal Natal National Park is a great place to explore on foot. Spanning an incredible 5km, the world-famous natural Amphitheatre is one of the most notable sights of the park alongside the Drakensberg escarpment which forms the border between Lesotho and Kwa-Zulu Natal. There are various hiking routes in the Royal Natal National Park with some leading you among ancient bushmen paintings and the incredibly beautiful Fairy Glen.
Hike to Tugela Falls: Laying claim to being the second tallest waterfall in the world, Tugela Falls is a phenomenal sight that thunders down the rugged sides of the Drakensberg Mountains. You can begin the hike from Sentinel Gate and make your way along the side of the mountains. Look out for the endemic mountain baboon or the bearded vultures en route. Climbing up the ladders to the dizzying summit of Tugela Falls presents you with 360-degree panoramas of the Amphitheatre and the surrounding landscapes.
Walking in Malolotja Nature Reserve: Covering 18,000 hectares of mountain wilderness, Malolotja Nature Reserve is one of the most impressive natural parks in South Africa. The diverse ecosystem is home to a wide variety of flora and fauna which can be seen on one of the many walking trails through the reserve. An incredible 280 bird species as well as antelope can be found throughout Malolotja. To the east of the reserve is the Malolotja River which flows over several waterfalls, including the Malolotja Falls, the highest in Swaziland, before reaching the Nkomati River. From Malolotja Falls there are uninterrupted views over the valleys and gorges.
Game Walk at Letaba Ranch Game Reserve: Spanning 42,000 hectares and making up part of the Greater Kruger National Park, Letaba Ranch Game Reserve is home to buffalos, wild dogs and elephants as well as other species of wildlife. Along the Letaba River you might spot crocodiles and hippos sheltering in the water and if you’re lucky, the elusive leopard may even make an appearance. A local guide will lead you to many of the best game viewing locations in the reserve as you track the movement of the animals.
Norma Hargraves Walking in Andalucia
Pete Grist Sierra de Aitana TrekI wanted a challenging week in good company and that’s what I got.
Michael Wortley Walking in AndaluciaExcellent trip with a variety of terrain and something different to offer every day. As described, it’s a grade2 level, with leisurely/moderate walking.
The accommodation is homely and comfortable, the food great quality and variety, and the staff couldn’t be more helpful and friendly. There’s also a very reasonable honesty bar!
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