Paragliding, kloofing and horse-riding in the Garden Route

GARDEN ROUTE NEWS - When you think back on your December holiday, you don’t want to remember your sofa and Netflix.

Make an effort this holiday to do something unforgettable with or without your family. Make memories that will last you well into the new year and try something different, like paragliding, kloofing or horse-riding.

Yoga in the air

Paragliding is like the yoga of flying: simple, serene, and not going to break the bank. It's the flight experience that's as easy as sipping cocktails on the beach, and it won't empty your wallet.

Best of all, you don't need to be a super athlete to get in on the action – even your grandma and grandpa can join the fun!

Forget the typical holiday snaps. Nothing says "I've been on an adventure" quite like a photo of you soaring like a bird over Wilderness or Sedgefield! Tandem paragliding is your ticket to adrenaline-fueled fun and the best part? You don’t even have to know what you're doing — just trust the expert pilot strapped to your back!

Think of it as hitching a ride on a giant kite, but with less screaming and more WOO-HOO! Your trusty instructor will handle all the complicated bits, while you enjoy the views and practice your best "I’m having the time of my life" face.

You'll have a once in a lifetime view. Photo: Jeff Ayliffe

Picture this: you, up in the clouds, with nothing but a glider and a charming instructor who has seen it all. In just 15-20 minutes, you'll cover more ground than you'd believe.

Despite those butterflies at take-off, once you're up there, all worries disappear, and the exhilarating rush takes over. The Garden Route offers a list of qualified tandem operators and paragliding schools to choose from.

Jump in a river

Dive into an unforgettable adventure: kloofing through Cappuccino Canyon. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or just want to try something new, these experiences offer the perfect mix of excitement and stunning scenery.

The perfect outing for an active family. Photo: Eden Adventures

Cappuccino Canyon, set along the Kaaimans River, is a must-do for families and adventure lovers. This guided half-day tour with Eden Adventures kicks off with a gentle walk through lush indigenous forest to the meeting point of the Kaaimans and Silver rivers. But the real fun begins when you start swimming between the canyon’s towering cliffs.

For the brave-hearted, there are several optional rock jumps into the cool, refreshing water - the highest being a daring 11,5m.

Kloofing offers the ultimate way to experience the wild beauty of the Garden Route from every angle - whether you’re swimming through canyons or rappelling down waterfalls.

An adrenalin junky's dream - kloofing through Cappuccino Canyon. Photo: Eden Adventures

Connect with nature

Explore the splendour of the Garden Route and surrounding landscapes with guided horseback rides that are as educational as they are fun. Perfect for riders of all ages and skill levels, this adventure is a fantastic way to connect with nature.

The gentle, well-cared-for horses make every ride a pleasure, and the breathtaking scenery adds an extra touch of magic. As you ride through the indigenous forest and vegetation, be on the lookout for bushbuck, baboons, the beautiful Knysna Loerie, bush pigs, porcupines, and even leopards!

The Garden Route offers a variety of beautiful outrides. Photo: Rinita van Tonder

Be sure to dress the part: wear long pants to avoid chafing, and close-toed shoes with a small heel to keep your feet secure in the stirrups. Rather leave loose clothing and accessories at home.

With a variety of trails and experienced guides, the Wilderness area offers something for everyone. So, giddy up, grab the reins, and let the adventure begin!

How about an outride cutey? Photo: Kristy Kolberg