News | Mezzaninehttp://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00The latest news and updates from Live The Journey.Exploring Wupperthal2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/exploring-wupperthal/<h3>Exploring Wupperthal</h3>
<p>The Wupperthal region in the Cederberg Mountains is one of South Africa’s most rugged, breathtaking, and rewarding hiking destinations in Southern Africa. Live the Journey offers three signature hikes through this ancient landscape: the Wupperthal66, the Wupperthal100, and the Wupperthal Cedar Trail. Each slack-pack hike is designed for different levels of endurance and exploration, but all share a common thread: unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the satisfaction of traversing one of the Cape’s most pristine regions.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Region</h4>
<p class="s13">Wupperthal sits in a valley framed by the rugged Cederberg Wilderness Area. The region is famous for:</p>
<p class="s13">Sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time into caves, arches, and cliffs.</p>
<p class="s13">Rock art sites where San hunter-gatherers painted scenes of rituals and daily life thousands of years ago.</p>
<p class="s13">Fynbos and rooibos: This is the original home of rooibos tea, and walking through the mountains you’ll often encounter fields of the plant that has become South Africa’s most famous herbal export.</p>
<p class="s13">Clear night skies that make stargazing a nightly highlight.</p>
<p class="s13">But beyond nature, Wupperthal is also about the community. The village has endured fires, droughts, and isolation, yet the people remain welcoming and proud of their heritage. Walks often include stories shared by local guides, moments in restored mission buildings, or even the chance to taste homemade bread baked in traditional clay ovens.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Community</h4>
<p class="s13">Choosing a Wupperthal hike means you’re also supporting the local economy. Many of the guides, porters, and service providers are from the surrounding community, and your presence directly contributes to rebuilding and sustaining this unique part of the country.</p>
<p class="s16">Expect:</p>
<p class="s13">Warm hospitality: from locals who welcome hikers into their home environment.</p>
<p class="s13">Cultural encounters: exploring the mission station, old Moravian church, and village history.</p>
<p class="s13">Sustainable tourism: Our hikes are structured to benefit the local people as much as they delight travellers.<br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w2.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal66 Hike</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Explore the Wupperthal66 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">This is our flagship experience. Covering 66 kilometres, this hike offers a multi-day slack-pack hiking experience through the dramatic rock formations, valleys, and ridges of the Cederberg. It’s an immersive introduction to Wupperthal’s terrain, where rugged cliffs and ancient San rock art set the vibrant backdrop.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Traversing remote valleys, camping under starry skies, and discovering a blend of history and wilderness.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging yet accessible multi-day experience! </p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“An incredible experience from start to finish. The Wupperthal66 was challenging but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides who made every step worthwhile. The scenery is beyond words - highly recommended.”</em> <br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w1.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal100</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Discover the Wupperthal100 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">The Wupperthal100 spans 100 kilometres across the most spectacular parts of the Cederberg. It’s the ultimate endurance test for those who want to push their limits while being enthralled with the rugged beauty of the Cederberg.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Covering the most extensive range of landscapes - from mountain ridges to secluded valleys - this hike is designed for experienced hikers.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Adventurers seeking a bucket-list challenge!</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Wupperthal100 is without a doubt one of the best hikes in South Africa. Tough, but every kilometre is worth it. The organisation was flawless, the guides professional, and the scenery unmatched.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w3.png" width="711" height="400" /><br /></em></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Join the Wupperthal Cedar Trail here</a></p>
<p class="s14">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail is a shorter, more accessible hiking option, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the Cederberg without committing to a longer-distance hike. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or those new to multi-day hiking.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Stunning, rugged cliffs, accessible trails, and a strong connection to the area’s history and natural beauty.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers seeking a balanced adventure - scenic and memorable, but slightly less demanding.</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Cedar Trail was the perfect introduction to Wupperthal. Beautiful landscapes, manageable distances, and the guides brought the history of the area to life. A great option if you’re not ready for the 66 or 100.”</em></p>
<h4 class="s11">Why Choose a Wupperthal Hike?</h4>
<p class="s13">All three hikes - the 66, 100, and Cedar Trail - share the authentic Live the Journey experience: expert guides, seamless logistics, and the chance to explore one of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re seasoned, or a newcomer to hiking, there’s a Wupperthal trail for you!</p>
<p class="s14">For a challenge: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Wupperthal100</a></p>
<p class="s13">For a balanced adventure: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Wupperthal66</a></p>
<p class="s13">For an introduction to the region: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Wupperthal Cedar Trail</a> </p>
<h4 class="s11">A Final Word</h4>
<p class="s25">The Wupperthal hikes aren’t just trails - they are journeys into history, culture, and a vast, beautiful wilderness. With glowing reviews and unforgettable client experiences, the Wupperthal66, Wupperthal100, and Wupperthal Cedar Trail are waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots and explore the Cederberg.</p>Exploring Wupperthal2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/exploring-wupperthal/<h3>Exploring Wupperthal</h3>
<p>The Wupperthal region in the Cederberg Mountains is one of South Africa’s most rugged, breathtaking, and rewarding hiking destinations in Southern Africa. Live the Journey offers three signature hikes through this ancient landscape: the Wupperthal66, the Wupperthal100, and the Wupperthal Cedar Trail. Each slack-pack hike is designed for different levels of endurance and exploration, but all share a common thread: unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the satisfaction of traversing one of the Cape’s most pristine regions.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Region</h4>
<p class="s13">Wupperthal sits in a valley framed by the rugged Cederberg Wilderness Area. The region is famous for:</p>
<p class="s13">Sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time into caves, arches, and cliffs.</p>
<p class="s13">Rock art sites where San hunter-gatherers painted scenes of rituals and daily life thousands of years ago.</p>
<p class="s13">Fynbos and rooibos: This is the original home of rooibos tea, and walking through the mountains you’ll often encounter fields of the plant that has become South Africa’s most famous herbal export.</p>
<p class="s13">Clear night skies that make stargazing a nightly highlight.</p>
<p class="s13">But beyond nature, Wupperthal is also about the community. The village has endured fires, droughts, and isolation, yet the people remain welcoming and proud of their heritage. Walks often include stories shared by local guides, moments in restored mission buildings, or even the chance to taste homemade bread baked in traditional clay ovens.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Community</h4>
<p class="s13">Choosing a Wupperthal hike means you’re also supporting the local economy. Many of the guides, porters, and service providers are from the surrounding community, and your presence directly contributes to rebuilding and sustaining this unique part of the country.</p>
<p class="s16">Expect:</p>
<p class="s13">Warm hospitality: from locals who welcome hikers into their home environment.</p>
<p class="s13">Cultural encounters: exploring the mission station, old Moravian church, and village history.</p>
<p class="s13">Sustainable tourism: Our hikes are structured to benefit the local people as much as they delight travellers.<br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w2.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal66 Hike</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Explore the Wupperthal66 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">This is our flagship experience. Covering 66 kilometres, this hike offers a multi-day slack-pack hiking experience through the dramatic rock formations, valleys, and ridges of the Cederberg. It’s an immersive introduction to Wupperthal’s terrain, where rugged cliffs and ancient San rock art set the vibrant backdrop.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Traversing remote valleys, camping under starry skies, and discovering a blend of history and wilderness.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging yet accessible multi-day experience! </p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“An incredible experience from start to finish. The Wupperthal66 was challenging but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides who made every step worthwhile. The scenery is beyond words - highly recommended.”</em> <br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w1.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal100</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Discover the Wupperthal100 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">The Wupperthal100 spans 100 kilometres across the most spectacular parts of the Cederberg. It’s the ultimate endurance test for those who want to push their limits while being enthralled with the rugged beauty of the Cederberg.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Covering the most extensive range of landscapes - from mountain ridges to secluded valleys - this hike is designed for experienced hikers.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Adventurers seeking a bucket-list challenge!</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Wupperthal100 is without a doubt one of the best hikes in South Africa. Tough, but every kilometre is worth it. The organisation was flawless, the guides professional, and the scenery unmatched.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w3.png" width="711" height="400" /><br /></em></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Join the Wupperthal Cedar Trail here</a></p>
<p class="s14">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail is a shorter, more accessible hiking option, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the Cederberg without committing to a longer-distance hike. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or those new to multi-day hiking.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Stunning, rugged cliffs, accessible trails, and a strong connection to the area’s history and natural beauty.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers seeking a balanced adventure - scenic and memorable, but slightly less demanding.</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Cedar Trail was the perfect introduction to Wupperthal. Beautiful landscapes, manageable distances, and the guides brought the history of the area to life. A great option if you’re not ready for the 66 or 100.”</em></p>
<h4 class="s11">Why Choose a Wupperthal Hike?</h4>
<p class="s13">All three hikes - the 66, 100, and Cedar Trail - share the authentic Live the Journey experience: expert guides, seamless logistics, and the chance to explore one of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re seasoned, or a newcomer to hiking, there’s a Wupperthal trail for you!</p>
<p class="s14">For a challenge: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Wupperthal100</a></p>
<p class="s13">For a balanced adventure: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Wupperthal66</a></p>
<p class="s13">For an introduction to the region: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Wupperthal Cedar Trail</a> </p>
<h4 class="s11">A Final Word</h4>
<p class="s25">The Wupperthal hikes aren’t just trails - they are journeys into history, culture, and a vast, beautiful wilderness. With glowing reviews and unforgettable client experiences, the Wupperthal66, Wupperthal100, and Wupperthal Cedar Trail are waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots and explore the Cederberg.</p>Exploring Wupperthal2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/exploring-wupperthal/<h3>Exploring Wupperthal</h3>
<p>The Wupperthal region in the Cederberg Mountains is one of South Africa’s most rugged, breathtaking, and rewarding hiking destinations in Southern Africa. Live the Journey offers three signature hikes through this ancient landscape: the Wupperthal66, the Wupperthal100, and the Wupperthal Cedar Trail. Each slack-pack hike is designed for different levels of endurance and exploration, but all share a common thread: unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the satisfaction of traversing one of the Cape’s most pristine regions.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Region</h4>
<p class="s13">Wupperthal sits in a valley framed by the rugged Cederberg Wilderness Area. The region is famous for:</p>
<p class="s13">Sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time into caves, arches, and cliffs.</p>
<p class="s13">Rock art sites where San hunter-gatherers painted scenes of rituals and daily life thousands of years ago.</p>
<p class="s13">Fynbos and rooibos: This is the original home of rooibos tea, and walking through the mountains you’ll often encounter fields of the plant that has become South Africa’s most famous herbal export.</p>
<p class="s13">Clear night skies that make stargazing a nightly highlight.</p>
<p class="s13">But beyond nature, Wupperthal is also about the community. The village has endured fires, droughts, and isolation, yet the people remain welcoming and proud of their heritage. Walks often include stories shared by local guides, moments in restored mission buildings, or even the chance to taste homemade bread baked in traditional clay ovens.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Community</h4>
<p class="s13">Choosing a Wupperthal hike means you’re also supporting the local economy. Many of the guides, porters, and service providers are from the surrounding community, and your presence directly contributes to rebuilding and sustaining this unique part of the country.</p>
<p class="s16">Expect:</p>
<p class="s13">Warm hospitality: from locals who welcome hikers into their home environment.</p>
<p class="s13">Cultural encounters: exploring the mission station, old Moravian church, and village history.</p>
<p class="s13">Sustainable tourism: Our hikes are structured to benefit the local people as much as they delight travellers.<br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w2.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal66 Hike</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Explore the Wupperthal66 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">This is our flagship experience. Covering 66 kilometres, this hike offers a multi-day slack-pack hiking experience through the dramatic rock formations, valleys, and ridges of the Cederberg. It’s an immersive introduction to Wupperthal’s terrain, where rugged cliffs and ancient San rock art set the vibrant backdrop.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Traversing remote valleys, camping under starry skies, and discovering a blend of history and wilderness.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging yet accessible multi-day experience! </p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“An incredible experience from start to finish. The Wupperthal66 was challenging but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides who made every step worthwhile. The scenery is beyond words - highly recommended.”</em> <br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w1.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal100</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Discover the Wupperthal100 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">The Wupperthal100 spans 100 kilometres across the most spectacular parts of the Cederberg. It’s the ultimate endurance test for those who want to push their limits while being enthralled with the rugged beauty of the Cederberg.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Covering the most extensive range of landscapes - from mountain ridges to secluded valleys - this hike is designed for experienced hikers.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Adventurers seeking a bucket-list challenge!</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Wupperthal100 is without a doubt one of the best hikes in South Africa. Tough, but every kilometre is worth it. The organisation was flawless, the guides professional, and the scenery unmatched.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w3.png" width="711" height="400" /><br /></em></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Join the Wupperthal Cedar Trail here</a></p>
<p class="s14">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail is a shorter, more accessible hiking option, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the Cederberg without committing to a longer-distance hike. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or those new to multi-day hiking.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Stunning, rugged cliffs, accessible trails, and a strong connection to the area’s history and natural beauty.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers seeking a balanced adventure - scenic and memorable, but slightly less demanding.</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Cedar Trail was the perfect introduction to Wupperthal. Beautiful landscapes, manageable distances, and the guides brought the history of the area to life. A great option if you’re not ready for the 66 or 100.”</em></p>
<h4 class="s11">Why Choose a Wupperthal Hike?</h4>
<p class="s13">All three hikes - the 66, 100, and Cedar Trail - share the authentic Live the Journey experience: expert guides, seamless logistics, and the chance to explore one of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re seasoned, or a newcomer to hiking, there’s a Wupperthal trail for you!</p>
<p class="s14">For a challenge: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Wupperthal100</a></p>
<p class="s13">For a balanced adventure: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Wupperthal66</a></p>
<p class="s13">For an introduction to the region: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Wupperthal Cedar Trail</a> </p>
<h4 class="s11">A Final Word</h4>
<p class="s25">The Wupperthal hikes aren’t just trails - they are journeys into history, culture, and a vast, beautiful wilderness. With glowing reviews and unforgettable client experiences, the Wupperthal66, Wupperthal100, and Wupperthal Cedar Trail are waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots and explore the Cederberg.</p>Exploring Wupperthal2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/exploring-wupperthal/<h3>Exploring Wupperthal</h3>
<p>The Wupperthal region in the Cederberg Mountains is one of South Africa’s most rugged, breathtaking, and rewarding hiking destinations in Southern Africa. Live the Journey offers three signature hikes through this ancient landscape: the Wupperthal66, the Wupperthal100, and the Wupperthal Cedar Trail. Each slack-pack hike is designed for different levels of endurance and exploration, but all share a common thread: unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the satisfaction of traversing one of the Cape’s most pristine regions.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Region</h4>
<p class="s13">Wupperthal sits in a valley framed by the rugged Cederberg Wilderness Area. The region is famous for:</p>
<p class="s13">Sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time into caves, arches, and cliffs.</p>
<p class="s13">Rock art sites where San hunter-gatherers painted scenes of rituals and daily life thousands of years ago.</p>
<p class="s13">Fynbos and rooibos: This is the original home of rooibos tea, and walking through the mountains you’ll often encounter fields of the plant that has become South Africa’s most famous herbal export.</p>
<p class="s13">Clear night skies that make stargazing a nightly highlight.</p>
<p class="s13">But beyond nature, Wupperthal is also about the community. The village has endured fires, droughts, and isolation, yet the people remain welcoming and proud of their heritage. Walks often include stories shared by local guides, moments in restored mission buildings, or even the chance to taste homemade bread baked in traditional clay ovens.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Community</h4>
<p class="s13">Choosing a Wupperthal hike means you’re also supporting the local economy. Many of the guides, porters, and service providers are from the surrounding community, and your presence directly contributes to rebuilding and sustaining this unique part of the country.</p>
<p class="s16">Expect:</p>
<p class="s13">Warm hospitality: from locals who welcome hikers into their home environment.</p>
<p class="s13">Cultural encounters: exploring the mission station, old Moravian church, and village history.</p>
<p class="s13">Sustainable tourism: Our hikes are structured to benefit the local people as much as they delight travellers.<br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w2.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal66 Hike</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Explore the Wupperthal66 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">This is our flagship experience. Covering 66 kilometres, this hike offers a multi-day slack-pack hiking experience through the dramatic rock formations, valleys, and ridges of the Cederberg. It’s an immersive introduction to Wupperthal’s terrain, where rugged cliffs and ancient San rock art set the vibrant backdrop.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Traversing remote valleys, camping under starry skies, and discovering a blend of history and wilderness.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging yet accessible multi-day experience! </p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“An incredible experience from start to finish. The Wupperthal66 was challenging but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides who made every step worthwhile. The scenery is beyond words - highly recommended.”</em> <br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w1.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal100</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Discover the Wupperthal100 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">The Wupperthal100 spans 100 kilometres across the most spectacular parts of the Cederberg. It’s the ultimate endurance test for those who want to push their limits while being enthralled with the rugged beauty of the Cederberg.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Covering the most extensive range of landscapes - from mountain ridges to secluded valleys - this hike is designed for experienced hikers.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Adventurers seeking a bucket-list challenge!</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Wupperthal100 is without a doubt one of the best hikes in South Africa. Tough, but every kilometre is worth it. The organisation was flawless, the guides professional, and the scenery unmatched.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w3.png" width="711" height="400" /><br /></em></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Join the Wupperthal Cedar Trail here</a></p>
<p class="s14">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail is a shorter, more accessible hiking option, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the Cederberg without committing to a longer-distance hike. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or those new to multi-day hiking.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Stunning, rugged cliffs, accessible trails, and a strong connection to the area’s history and natural beauty.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers seeking a balanced adventure - scenic and memorable, but slightly less demanding.</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Cedar Trail was the perfect introduction to Wupperthal. Beautiful landscapes, manageable distances, and the guides brought the history of the area to life. A great option if you’re not ready for the 66 or 100.”</em></p>
<h4 class="s11">Why Choose a Wupperthal Hike?</h4>
<p class="s13">All three hikes - the 66, 100, and Cedar Trail - share the authentic Live the Journey experience: expert guides, seamless logistics, and the chance to explore one of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re seasoned, or a newcomer to hiking, there’s a Wupperthal trail for you!</p>
<p class="s14">For a challenge: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Wupperthal100</a></p>
<p class="s13">For a balanced adventure: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Wupperthal66</a></p>
<p class="s13">For an introduction to the region: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Wupperthal Cedar Trail</a> </p>
<h4 class="s11">A Final Word</h4>
<p class="s25">The Wupperthal hikes aren’t just trails - they are journeys into history, culture, and a vast, beautiful wilderness. With glowing reviews and unforgettable client experiences, the Wupperthal66, Wupperthal100, and Wupperthal Cedar Trail are waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots and explore the Cederberg.</p>Exploring Wupperthal2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/exploring-wupperthal/<h3>Exploring Wupperthal</h3>
<p>The Wupperthal region in the Cederberg Mountains is one of South Africa’s most rugged, breathtaking, and rewarding hiking destinations in Southern Africa. Live the Journey offers three signature hikes through this ancient landscape: the Wupperthal66, the Wupperthal100, and the Wupperthal Cedar Trail. Each slack-pack hike is designed for different levels of endurance and exploration, but all share a common thread: unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the satisfaction of traversing one of the Cape’s most pristine regions.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Region</h4>
<p class="s13">Wupperthal sits in a valley framed by the rugged Cederberg Wilderness Area. The region is famous for:</p>
<p class="s13">Sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time into caves, arches, and cliffs.</p>
<p class="s13">Rock art sites where San hunter-gatherers painted scenes of rituals and daily life thousands of years ago.</p>
<p class="s13">Fynbos and rooibos: This is the original home of rooibos tea, and walking through the mountains you’ll often encounter fields of the plant that has become South Africa’s most famous herbal export.</p>
<p class="s13">Clear night skies that make stargazing a nightly highlight.</p>
<p class="s13">But beyond nature, Wupperthal is also about the community. The village has endured fires, droughts, and isolation, yet the people remain welcoming and proud of their heritage. Walks often include stories shared by local guides, moments in restored mission buildings, or even the chance to taste homemade bread baked in traditional clay ovens.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Community</h4>
<p class="s13">Choosing a Wupperthal hike means you’re also supporting the local economy. Many of the guides, porters, and service providers are from the surrounding community, and your presence directly contributes to rebuilding and sustaining this unique part of the country.</p>
<p class="s16">Expect:</p>
<p class="s13">Warm hospitality: from locals who welcome hikers into their home environment.</p>
<p class="s13">Cultural encounters: exploring the mission station, old Moravian church, and village history.</p>
<p class="s13">Sustainable tourism: Our hikes are structured to benefit the local people as much as they delight travellers.<br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w2.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal66 Hike</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Explore the Wupperthal66 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">This is our flagship experience. Covering 66 kilometres, this hike offers a multi-day slack-pack hiking experience through the dramatic rock formations, valleys, and ridges of the Cederberg. It’s an immersive introduction to Wupperthal’s terrain, where rugged cliffs and ancient San rock art set the vibrant backdrop.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Traversing remote valleys, camping under starry skies, and discovering a blend of history and wilderness.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging yet accessible multi-day experience! </p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“An incredible experience from start to finish. The Wupperthal66 was challenging but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides who made every step worthwhile. The scenery is beyond words - highly recommended.”</em> <br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w1.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal100</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Discover the Wupperthal100 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">The Wupperthal100 spans 100 kilometres across the most spectacular parts of the Cederberg. It’s the ultimate endurance test for those who want to push their limits while being enthralled with the rugged beauty of the Cederberg.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Covering the most extensive range of landscapes - from mountain ridges to secluded valleys - this hike is designed for experienced hikers.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Adventurers seeking a bucket-list challenge!</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Wupperthal100 is without a doubt one of the best hikes in South Africa. Tough, but every kilometre is worth it. The organisation was flawless, the guides professional, and the scenery unmatched.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w3.png" width="711" height="400" /><br /></em></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Join the Wupperthal Cedar Trail here</a></p>
<p class="s14">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail is a shorter, more accessible hiking option, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the Cederberg without committing to a longer-distance hike. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or those new to multi-day hiking.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Stunning, rugged cliffs, accessible trails, and a strong connection to the area’s history and natural beauty.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers seeking a balanced adventure - scenic and memorable, but slightly less demanding.</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Cedar Trail was the perfect introduction to Wupperthal. Beautiful landscapes, manageable distances, and the guides brought the history of the area to life. A great option if you’re not ready for the 66 or 100.”</em></p>
<h4 class="s11">Why Choose a Wupperthal Hike?</h4>
<p class="s13">All three hikes - the 66, 100, and Cedar Trail - share the authentic Live the Journey experience: expert guides, seamless logistics, and the chance to explore one of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re seasoned, or a newcomer to hiking, there’s a Wupperthal trail for you!</p>
<p class="s14">For a challenge: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Wupperthal100</a></p>
<p class="s13">For a balanced adventure: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Wupperthal66</a></p>
<p class="s13">For an introduction to the region: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Wupperthal Cedar Trail</a> </p>
<h4 class="s11">A Final Word</h4>
<p class="s25">The Wupperthal hikes aren’t just trails - they are journeys into history, culture, and a vast, beautiful wilderness. With glowing reviews and unforgettable client experiences, the Wupperthal66, Wupperthal100, and Wupperthal Cedar Trail are waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots and explore the Cederberg.</p>Exploring Wupperthal2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/exploring-wupperthal/<h3>Exploring Wupperthal</h3>
<p>The Wupperthal region in the Cederberg Mountains is one of South Africa’s most rugged, breathtaking, and rewarding hiking destinations in Southern Africa. Live the Journey offers three signature hikes through this ancient landscape: the Wupperthal66, the Wupperthal100, and the Wupperthal Cedar Trail. Each slack-pack hike is designed for different levels of endurance and exploration, but all share a common thread: unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the satisfaction of traversing one of the Cape’s most pristine regions.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Region</h4>
<p class="s13">Wupperthal sits in a valley framed by the rugged Cederberg Wilderness Area. The region is famous for:</p>
<p class="s13">Sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time into caves, arches, and cliffs.</p>
<p class="s13">Rock art sites where San hunter-gatherers painted scenes of rituals and daily life thousands of years ago.</p>
<p class="s13">Fynbos and rooibos: This is the original home of rooibos tea, and walking through the mountains you’ll often encounter fields of the plant that has become South Africa’s most famous herbal export.</p>
<p class="s13">Clear night skies that make stargazing a nightly highlight.</p>
<p class="s13">But beyond nature, Wupperthal is also about the community. The village has endured fires, droughts, and isolation, yet the people remain welcoming and proud of their heritage. Walks often include stories shared by local guides, moments in restored mission buildings, or even the chance to taste homemade bread baked in traditional clay ovens.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Community</h4>
<p class="s13">Choosing a Wupperthal hike means you’re also supporting the local economy. Many of the guides, porters, and service providers are from the surrounding community, and your presence directly contributes to rebuilding and sustaining this unique part of the country.</p>
<p class="s16">Expect:</p>
<p class="s13">Warm hospitality: from locals who welcome hikers into their home environment.</p>
<p class="s13">Cultural encounters: exploring the mission station, old Moravian church, and village history.</p>
<p class="s13">Sustainable tourism: Our hikes are structured to benefit the local people as much as they delight travellers.<br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w2.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal66 Hike</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Explore the Wupperthal66 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">This is our flagship experience. Covering 66 kilometres, this hike offers a multi-day slack-pack hiking experience through the dramatic rock formations, valleys, and ridges of the Cederberg. It’s an immersive introduction to Wupperthal’s terrain, where rugged cliffs and ancient San rock art set the vibrant backdrop.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Traversing remote valleys, camping under starry skies, and discovering a blend of history and wilderness.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging yet accessible multi-day experience! </p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“An incredible experience from start to finish. The Wupperthal66 was challenging but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides who made every step worthwhile. The scenery is beyond words - highly recommended.”</em> <br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w1.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal100</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Discover the Wupperthal100 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">The Wupperthal100 spans 100 kilometres across the most spectacular parts of the Cederberg. It’s the ultimate endurance test for those who want to push their limits while being enthralled with the rugged beauty of the Cederberg.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Covering the most extensive range of landscapes - from mountain ridges to secluded valleys - this hike is designed for experienced hikers.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Adventurers seeking a bucket-list challenge!</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Wupperthal100 is without a doubt one of the best hikes in South Africa. Tough, but every kilometre is worth it. The organisation was flawless, the guides professional, and the scenery unmatched.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w3.png" width="711" height="400" /><br /></em></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Join the Wupperthal Cedar Trail here</a></p>
<p class="s14">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail is a shorter, more accessible hiking option, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the Cederberg without committing to a longer-distance hike. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or those new to multi-day hiking.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Stunning, rugged cliffs, accessible trails, and a strong connection to the area’s history and natural beauty.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers seeking a balanced adventure - scenic and memorable, but slightly less demanding.</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Cedar Trail was the perfect introduction to Wupperthal. Beautiful landscapes, manageable distances, and the guides brought the history of the area to life. A great option if you’re not ready for the 66 or 100.”</em></p>
<h4 class="s11">Why Choose a Wupperthal Hike?</h4>
<p class="s13">All three hikes - the 66, 100, and Cedar Trail - share the authentic Live the Journey experience: expert guides, seamless logistics, and the chance to explore one of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re seasoned, or a newcomer to hiking, there’s a Wupperthal trail for you!</p>
<p class="s14">For a challenge: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Wupperthal100</a></p>
<p class="s13">For a balanced adventure: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Wupperthal66</a></p>
<p class="s13">For an introduction to the region: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Wupperthal Cedar Trail</a> </p>
<h4 class="s11">A Final Word</h4>
<p class="s25">The Wupperthal hikes aren’t just trails - they are journeys into history, culture, and a vast, beautiful wilderness. With glowing reviews and unforgettable client experiences, the Wupperthal66, Wupperthal100, and Wupperthal Cedar Trail are waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots and explore the Cederberg.</p>Exploring Wupperthal2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/exploring-wupperthal/<h3>Exploring Wupperthal</h3>
<p>The Wupperthal region in the Cederberg Mountains is one of South Africa’s most rugged, breathtaking, and rewarding hiking destinations in Southern Africa. Live the Journey offers three signature hikes through this ancient landscape: the Wupperthal66, the Wupperthal100, and the Wupperthal Cedar Trail. Each slack-pack hike is designed for different levels of endurance and exploration, but all share a common thread: unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the satisfaction of traversing one of the Cape’s most pristine regions.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Region</h4>
<p class="s13">Wupperthal sits in a valley framed by the rugged Cederberg Wilderness Area. The region is famous for:</p>
<p class="s13">Sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time into caves, arches, and cliffs.</p>
<p class="s13">Rock art sites where San hunter-gatherers painted scenes of rituals and daily life thousands of years ago.</p>
<p class="s13">Fynbos and rooibos: This is the original home of rooibos tea, and walking through the mountains you’ll often encounter fields of the plant that has become South Africa’s most famous herbal export.</p>
<p class="s13">Clear night skies that make stargazing a nightly highlight.</p>
<p class="s13">But beyond nature, Wupperthal is also about the community. The village has endured fires, droughts, and isolation, yet the people remain welcoming and proud of their heritage. Walks often include stories shared by local guides, moments in restored mission buildings, or even the chance to taste homemade bread baked in traditional clay ovens.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Community</h4>
<p class="s13">Choosing a Wupperthal hike means you’re also supporting the local economy. Many of the guides, porters, and service providers are from the surrounding community, and your presence directly contributes to rebuilding and sustaining this unique part of the country.</p>
<p class="s16">Expect:</p>
<p class="s13">Warm hospitality: from locals who welcome hikers into their home environment.</p>
<p class="s13">Cultural encounters: exploring the mission station, old Moravian church, and village history.</p>
<p class="s13">Sustainable tourism: Our hikes are structured to benefit the local people as much as they delight travellers.<br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w2.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal66 Hike</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Explore the Wupperthal66 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">This is our flagship experience. Covering 66 kilometres, this hike offers a multi-day slack-pack hiking experience through the dramatic rock formations, valleys, and ridges of the Cederberg. It’s an immersive introduction to Wupperthal’s terrain, where rugged cliffs and ancient San rock art set the vibrant backdrop.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Traversing remote valleys, camping under starry skies, and discovering a blend of history and wilderness.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging yet accessible multi-day experience! </p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“An incredible experience from start to finish. The Wupperthal66 was challenging but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides who made every step worthwhile. The scenery is beyond words - highly recommended.”</em> <br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w1.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal100</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Discover the Wupperthal100 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">The Wupperthal100 spans 100 kilometres across the most spectacular parts of the Cederberg. It’s the ultimate endurance test for those who want to push their limits while being enthralled with the rugged beauty of the Cederberg.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Covering the most extensive range of landscapes - from mountain ridges to secluded valleys - this hike is designed for experienced hikers.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Adventurers seeking a bucket-list challenge!</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Wupperthal100 is without a doubt one of the best hikes in South Africa. Tough, but every kilometre is worth it. The organisation was flawless, the guides professional, and the scenery unmatched.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w3.png" width="711" height="400" /><br /></em></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Join the Wupperthal Cedar Trail here</a></p>
<p class="s14">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail is a shorter, more accessible hiking option, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the Cederberg without committing to a longer-distance hike. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or those new to multi-day hiking.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Stunning, rugged cliffs, accessible trails, and a strong connection to the area’s history and natural beauty.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers seeking a balanced adventure - scenic and memorable, but slightly less demanding.</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Cedar Trail was the perfect introduction to Wupperthal. Beautiful landscapes, manageable distances, and the guides brought the history of the area to life. A great option if you’re not ready for the 66 or 100.”</em></p>
<h4 class="s11">Why Choose a Wupperthal Hike?</h4>
<p class="s13">All three hikes - the 66, 100, and Cedar Trail - share the authentic Live the Journey experience: expert guides, seamless logistics, and the chance to explore one of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re seasoned, or a newcomer to hiking, there’s a Wupperthal trail for you!</p>
<p class="s14">For a challenge: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Wupperthal100</a></p>
<p class="s13">For a balanced adventure: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Wupperthal66</a></p>
<p class="s13">For an introduction to the region: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Wupperthal Cedar Trail</a> </p>
<h4 class="s11">A Final Word</h4>
<p class="s25">The Wupperthal hikes aren’t just trails - they are journeys into history, culture, and a vast, beautiful wilderness. With glowing reviews and unforgettable client experiences, the Wupperthal66, Wupperthal100, and Wupperthal Cedar Trail are waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots and explore the Cederberg.</p>Exploring Wupperthal2025-10-01T09:55:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/exploring-wupperthal/<h3>Exploring Wupperthal</h3>
<p>The Wupperthal region in the Cederberg Mountains is one of South Africa’s most rugged, breathtaking, and rewarding hiking destinations in Southern Africa. Live the Journey offers three signature hikes through this ancient landscape: the Wupperthal66, the Wupperthal100, and the Wupperthal Cedar Trail. Each slack-pack hike is designed for different levels of endurance and exploration, but all share a common thread: unmatched natural beauty, cultural heritage, and the satisfaction of traversing one of the Cape’s most pristine regions.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Region</h4>
<p class="s13">Wupperthal sits in a valley framed by the rugged Cederberg Wilderness Area. The region is famous for:</p>
<p class="s13">Sandstone landscapes sculpted by wind and time into caves, arches, and cliffs.</p>
<p class="s13">Rock art sites where San hunter-gatherers painted scenes of rituals and daily life thousands of years ago.</p>
<p class="s13">Fynbos and rooibos: This is the original home of rooibos tea, and walking through the mountains you’ll often encounter fields of the plant that has become South Africa’s most famous herbal export.</p>
<p class="s13">Clear night skies that make stargazing a nightly highlight.</p>
<p class="s13">But beyond nature, Wupperthal is also about the community. The village has endured fires, droughts, and isolation, yet the people remain welcoming and proud of their heritage. Walks often include stories shared by local guides, moments in restored mission buildings, or even the chance to taste homemade bread baked in traditional clay ovens.</p>
<h4 class="s11">The Community</h4>
<p class="s13">Choosing a Wupperthal hike means you’re also supporting the local economy. Many of the guides, porters, and service providers are from the surrounding community, and your presence directly contributes to rebuilding and sustaining this unique part of the country.</p>
<p class="s16">Expect:</p>
<p class="s13">Warm hospitality: from locals who welcome hikers into their home environment.</p>
<p class="s13">Cultural encounters: exploring the mission station, old Moravian church, and village history.</p>
<p class="s13">Sustainable tourism: Our hikes are structured to benefit the local people as much as they delight travellers.<br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w2.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal66 Hike</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Explore the Wupperthal66 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">This is our flagship experience. Covering 66 kilometres, this hike offers a multi-day slack-pack hiking experience through the dramatic rock formations, valleys, and ridges of the Cederberg. It’s an immersive introduction to Wupperthal’s terrain, where rugged cliffs and ancient San rock art set the vibrant backdrop.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Traversing remote valleys, camping under starry skies, and discovering a blend of history and wilderness.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers looking for a challenging yet accessible multi-day experience! </p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“An incredible experience from start to finish. The Wupperthal66 was challenging but rewarding, with knowledgeable guides who made every step worthwhile. The scenery is beyond words - highly recommended.”</em> <br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w1.png" width="711" height="400" /></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal100</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Discover the Wupperthal100 Hike here</a></p>
<p class="s17">The Wupperthal100 spans 100 kilometres across the most spectacular parts of the Cederberg. It’s the ultimate endurance test for those who want to push their limits while being enthralled with the rugged beauty of the Cederberg.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Covering the most extensive range of landscapes - from mountain ridges to secluded valleys - this hike is designed for experienced hikers.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Adventurers seeking a bucket-list challenge!</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Wupperthal100 is without a doubt one of the best hikes in South Africa. Tough, but every kilometre is worth it. The organisation was flawless, the guides professional, and the scenery unmatched.”<br /><br /><br /><img src="/static/media/uploads/blog/w3.png" width="711" height="400" /><br /></em></p>
<h4 class="s3">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail</h4>
<p><a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Join the Wupperthal Cedar Trail here</a></p>
<p class="s14">The Wupperthal Cedar Trail is a shorter, more accessible hiking option, perfect for those who want to experience the magic of the Cederberg without committing to a longer-distance hike. It’s ideal for small groups, families, or those new to multi-day hiking.</p>
<p class="s13">Highlights: Stunning, rugged cliffs, accessible trails, and a strong connection to the area’s history and natural beauty.</p>
<p class="s13">Best For: Hikers seeking a balanced adventure - scenic and memorable, but slightly less demanding.</p>
<p class="s19"><strong>Recent Customer Review:</strong></p>
<p class="s22"><em>“The Cedar Trail was the perfect introduction to Wupperthal. Beautiful landscapes, manageable distances, and the guides brought the history of the area to life. A great option if you’re not ready for the 66 or 100.”</em></p>
<h4 class="s11">Why Choose a Wupperthal Hike?</h4>
<p class="s13">All three hikes - the 66, 100, and Cedar Trail - share the authentic Live the Journey experience: expert guides, seamless logistics, and the chance to explore one of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Whether you’re seasoned, or a newcomer to hiking, there’s a Wupperthal trail for you!</p>
<p class="s14">For a challenge: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal100-hike/">Wupperthal100</a></p>
<p class="s13">For a balanced adventure: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cederberg-hike/">Wupperthal66</a></p>
<p class="s13">For an introduction to the region: <a href="https://www.livethejourney.co.za/tour/wupperthal-cedar-trail/">Wupperthal Cedar Trail</a> </p>
<h4 class="s11">A Final Word</h4>
<p class="s25">The Wupperthal hikes aren’t just trails - they are journeys into history, culture, and a vast, beautiful wilderness. With glowing reviews and unforgettable client experiences, the Wupperthal66, Wupperthal100, and Wupperthal Cedar Trail are waiting to be discovered. Lace up your boots and explore the Cederberg.</p>Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder2023-11-28T12:53:47+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/morocco-behind-the-doors-of-wonder/<p><strong>Exploring Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder</strong></p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, often hailed as the "Country of Doors," beckons with promises of enchantment and discovery. Join us on a virtual expedition through the winding streets, bustling medinas, and, most notably, the captivating doors that open the gateway to extraordinary experiences. Our October 2023 tour group embarked on a journey that unfolded like the pages of a mesmerising travelogue.</p>
<p><strong>A Pictorial Prelude</strong></p>
<p>Capturing the essence of Morocco is an art, and our travel companions did just that. Which door spoke to you? Which one whispered tales of untold adventures?</p>
<p><strong>Marrakech: Chaos to Tranquility</strong></p>
<p>Beryl Van Niekerk paints a vivid picture of our day in Marrakech, a city that pulsates with life. The medina, a chaotic tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells, welcomed our curious group. Motorbikes danced through crowded alleys, bicycles chimed their bells, and sellers beckoned us with the treasures of Morocco. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a large door stood as a gateway to tranquility.</p>
<p>As we stepped through, the busy streets disappeared, replaced by a serene moment in the shadow of the Minaret. Eyes closed, we embraced the calm, momentarily escaping the vibrant frenzy outside. Our guide's voice broke the spell, inviting us to explore further.</p>
<p><strong>Culinary Delights and Alleyway Adventures</strong></p>
<p>Beyond the doors, our journey continued through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing new treasures. Dates, olives, and bread tantalised our taste buds, shared by vendors whose lives were dedicated to these culinary delights. The culmination of our culinary adventure was a shared platter of roasted lamb, bread, and olives—a simple yet mouth-watering meal that left us satiated, reclining in reflection.</p>
<p><strong>Djemaa El Fna Square: A Cultural Spectacle</strong></p>
<p>The afternoon led us to Djemaa El Fna square, an open-air theater of Moroccan culture. Drummers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers transformed the square into a vibrant spectacle. Monkeys squawked while chained to their owners, and umbrella-huddled fortune tellers painted promising futures. It was a sensory immersion into the heart of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Jardin Majorelle: A Haven of Cobalt Blue</strong></p>
<p>The day's crescendo unfolded at the Berber Museum within the Jardin Majorelle Garden. The vibrant cobalt blue, strategically infused by Yves Saint Laurent, enveloped us in a different kind of magic. The garden, acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner in 1980, became a canvas preserving the artistic legacy of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead to 2024</strong></p>
<p>As the sun set on our day in Marrakech, the promise of more adventures lingered. Our group has decided to return to Morocco in 2024, and we invite you to join us. Imagine exploring Imperial Cities, traversing the High Atlas, and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven.</p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, with its doors of wonder, invites you to step into a world where each door opens onto a new chapter of discovery. Are you ready to turn the handle and be part of our tale?</p>
<p>The adventure awaits in 2024!</p>Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder2023-11-28T12:53:47+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/morocco-behind-the-doors-of-wonder/<p><strong>Exploring Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder</strong></p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, often hailed as the "Country of Doors," beckons with promises of enchantment and discovery. Join us on a virtual expedition through the winding streets, bustling medinas, and, most notably, the captivating doors that open the gateway to extraordinary experiences. Our October 2023 tour group embarked on a journey that unfolded like the pages of a mesmerising travelogue.</p>
<p><strong>A Pictorial Prelude</strong></p>
<p>Capturing the essence of Morocco is an art, and our travel companions did just that. Which door spoke to you? Which one whispered tales of untold adventures?</p>
<p><strong>Marrakech: Chaos to Tranquility</strong></p>
<p>Beryl Van Niekerk paints a vivid picture of our day in Marrakech, a city that pulsates with life. The medina, a chaotic tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells, welcomed our curious group. Motorbikes danced through crowded alleys, bicycles chimed their bells, and sellers beckoned us with the treasures of Morocco. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a large door stood as a gateway to tranquility.</p>
<p>As we stepped through, the busy streets disappeared, replaced by a serene moment in the shadow of the Minaret. Eyes closed, we embraced the calm, momentarily escaping the vibrant frenzy outside. Our guide's voice broke the spell, inviting us to explore further.</p>
<p><strong>Culinary Delights and Alleyway Adventures</strong></p>
<p>Beyond the doors, our journey continued through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing new treasures. Dates, olives, and bread tantalised our taste buds, shared by vendors whose lives were dedicated to these culinary delights. The culmination of our culinary adventure was a shared platter of roasted lamb, bread, and olives—a simple yet mouth-watering meal that left us satiated, reclining in reflection.</p>
<p><strong>Djemaa El Fna Square: A Cultural Spectacle</strong></p>
<p>The afternoon led us to Djemaa El Fna square, an open-air theater of Moroccan culture. Drummers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers transformed the square into a vibrant spectacle. Monkeys squawked while chained to their owners, and umbrella-huddled fortune tellers painted promising futures. It was a sensory immersion into the heart of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Jardin Majorelle: A Haven of Cobalt Blue</strong></p>
<p>The day's crescendo unfolded at the Berber Museum within the Jardin Majorelle Garden. The vibrant cobalt blue, strategically infused by Yves Saint Laurent, enveloped us in a different kind of magic. The garden, acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner in 1980, became a canvas preserving the artistic legacy of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead to 2024</strong></p>
<p>As the sun set on our day in Marrakech, the promise of more adventures lingered. Our group has decided to return to Morocco in 2024, and we invite you to join us. Imagine exploring Imperial Cities, traversing the High Atlas, and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven.</p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, with its doors of wonder, invites you to step into a world where each door opens onto a new chapter of discovery. Are you ready to turn the handle and be part of our tale?</p>
<p>The adventure awaits in 2024!</p>Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder2023-11-28T12:53:47+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/morocco-behind-the-doors-of-wonder/<p><strong>Exploring Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder</strong></p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, often hailed as the "Country of Doors," beckons with promises of enchantment and discovery. Join us on a virtual expedition through the winding streets, bustling medinas, and, most notably, the captivating doors that open the gateway to extraordinary experiences. Our October 2023 tour group embarked on a journey that unfolded like the pages of a mesmerising travelogue.</p>
<p><strong>A Pictorial Prelude</strong></p>
<p>Capturing the essence of Morocco is an art, and our travel companions did just that. Which door spoke to you? Which one whispered tales of untold adventures?</p>
<p><strong>Marrakech: Chaos to Tranquility</strong></p>
<p>Beryl Van Niekerk paints a vivid picture of our day in Marrakech, a city that pulsates with life. The medina, a chaotic tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells, welcomed our curious group. Motorbikes danced through crowded alleys, bicycles chimed their bells, and sellers beckoned us with the treasures of Morocco. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a large door stood as a gateway to tranquility.</p>
<p>As we stepped through, the busy streets disappeared, replaced by a serene moment in the shadow of the Minaret. Eyes closed, we embraced the calm, momentarily escaping the vibrant frenzy outside. Our guide's voice broke the spell, inviting us to explore further.</p>
<p><strong>Culinary Delights and Alleyway Adventures</strong></p>
<p>Beyond the doors, our journey continued through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing new treasures. Dates, olives, and bread tantalised our taste buds, shared by vendors whose lives were dedicated to these culinary delights. The culmination of our culinary adventure was a shared platter of roasted lamb, bread, and olives—a simple yet mouth-watering meal that left us satiated, reclining in reflection.</p>
<p><strong>Djemaa El Fna Square: A Cultural Spectacle</strong></p>
<p>The afternoon led us to Djemaa El Fna square, an open-air theater of Moroccan culture. Drummers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers transformed the square into a vibrant spectacle. Monkeys squawked while chained to their owners, and umbrella-huddled fortune tellers painted promising futures. It was a sensory immersion into the heart of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Jardin Majorelle: A Haven of Cobalt Blue</strong></p>
<p>The day's crescendo unfolded at the Berber Museum within the Jardin Majorelle Garden. The vibrant cobalt blue, strategically infused by Yves Saint Laurent, enveloped us in a different kind of magic. The garden, acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner in 1980, became a canvas preserving the artistic legacy of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead to 2024</strong></p>
<p>As the sun set on our day in Marrakech, the promise of more adventures lingered. Our group has decided to return to Morocco in 2024, and we invite you to join us. Imagine exploring Imperial Cities, traversing the High Atlas, and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven.</p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, with its doors of wonder, invites you to step into a world where each door opens onto a new chapter of discovery. Are you ready to turn the handle and be part of our tale?</p>
<p>The adventure awaits in 2024!</p>Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder2023-11-28T12:53:47+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/morocco-behind-the-doors-of-wonder/<p><strong>Exploring Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder</strong></p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, often hailed as the "Country of Doors," beckons with promises of enchantment and discovery. Join us on a virtual expedition through the winding streets, bustling medinas, and, most notably, the captivating doors that open the gateway to extraordinary experiences. Our October 2023 tour group embarked on a journey that unfolded like the pages of a mesmerising travelogue.</p>
<p><strong>A Pictorial Prelude</strong></p>
<p>Capturing the essence of Morocco is an art, and our travel companions did just that. Which door spoke to you? Which one whispered tales of untold adventures?</p>
<p><strong>Marrakech: Chaos to Tranquility</strong></p>
<p>Beryl Van Niekerk paints a vivid picture of our day in Marrakech, a city that pulsates with life. The medina, a chaotic tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells, welcomed our curious group. Motorbikes danced through crowded alleys, bicycles chimed their bells, and sellers beckoned us with the treasures of Morocco. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a large door stood as a gateway to tranquility.</p>
<p>As we stepped through, the busy streets disappeared, replaced by a serene moment in the shadow of the Minaret. Eyes closed, we embraced the calm, momentarily escaping the vibrant frenzy outside. Our guide's voice broke the spell, inviting us to explore further.</p>
<p><strong>Culinary Delights and Alleyway Adventures</strong></p>
<p>Beyond the doors, our journey continued through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing new treasures. Dates, olives, and bread tantalised our taste buds, shared by vendors whose lives were dedicated to these culinary delights. The culmination of our culinary adventure was a shared platter of roasted lamb, bread, and olives—a simple yet mouth-watering meal that left us satiated, reclining in reflection.</p>
<p><strong>Djemaa El Fna Square: A Cultural Spectacle</strong></p>
<p>The afternoon led us to Djemaa El Fna square, an open-air theater of Moroccan culture. Drummers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers transformed the square into a vibrant spectacle. Monkeys squawked while chained to their owners, and umbrella-huddled fortune tellers painted promising futures. It was a sensory immersion into the heart of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Jardin Majorelle: A Haven of Cobalt Blue</strong></p>
<p>The day's crescendo unfolded at the Berber Museum within the Jardin Majorelle Garden. The vibrant cobalt blue, strategically infused by Yves Saint Laurent, enveloped us in a different kind of magic. The garden, acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner in 1980, became a canvas preserving the artistic legacy of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead to 2024</strong></p>
<p>As the sun set on our day in Marrakech, the promise of more adventures lingered. Our group has decided to return to Morocco in 2024, and we invite you to join us. Imagine exploring Imperial Cities, traversing the High Atlas, and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven.</p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, with its doors of wonder, invites you to step into a world where each door opens onto a new chapter of discovery. Are you ready to turn the handle and be part of our tale?</p>
<p>The adventure awaits in 2024!</p>Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder2023-11-28T12:53:47+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/morocco-behind-the-doors-of-wonder/<p><strong>Exploring Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder</strong></p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, often hailed as the "Country of Doors," beckons with promises of enchantment and discovery. Join us on a virtual expedition through the winding streets, bustling medinas, and, most notably, the captivating doors that open the gateway to extraordinary experiences. Our October 2023 tour group embarked on a journey that unfolded like the pages of a mesmerising travelogue.</p>
<p><strong>A Pictorial Prelude</strong></p>
<p>Capturing the essence of Morocco is an art, and our travel companions did just that. Which door spoke to you? Which one whispered tales of untold adventures?</p>
<p><strong>Marrakech: Chaos to Tranquility</strong></p>
<p>Beryl Van Niekerk paints a vivid picture of our day in Marrakech, a city that pulsates with life. The medina, a chaotic tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells, welcomed our curious group. Motorbikes danced through crowded alleys, bicycles chimed their bells, and sellers beckoned us with the treasures of Morocco. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a large door stood as a gateway to tranquility.</p>
<p>As we stepped through, the busy streets disappeared, replaced by a serene moment in the shadow of the Minaret. Eyes closed, we embraced the calm, momentarily escaping the vibrant frenzy outside. Our guide's voice broke the spell, inviting us to explore further.</p>
<p><strong>Culinary Delights and Alleyway Adventures</strong></p>
<p>Beyond the doors, our journey continued through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing new treasures. Dates, olives, and bread tantalised our taste buds, shared by vendors whose lives were dedicated to these culinary delights. The culmination of our culinary adventure was a shared platter of roasted lamb, bread, and olives—a simple yet mouth-watering meal that left us satiated, reclining in reflection.</p>
<p><strong>Djemaa El Fna Square: A Cultural Spectacle</strong></p>
<p>The afternoon led us to Djemaa El Fna square, an open-air theater of Moroccan culture. Drummers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers transformed the square into a vibrant spectacle. Monkeys squawked while chained to their owners, and umbrella-huddled fortune tellers painted promising futures. It was a sensory immersion into the heart of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Jardin Majorelle: A Haven of Cobalt Blue</strong></p>
<p>The day's crescendo unfolded at the Berber Museum within the Jardin Majorelle Garden. The vibrant cobalt blue, strategically infused by Yves Saint Laurent, enveloped us in a different kind of magic. The garden, acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner in 1980, became a canvas preserving the artistic legacy of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead to 2024</strong></p>
<p>As the sun set on our day in Marrakech, the promise of more adventures lingered. Our group has decided to return to Morocco in 2024, and we invite you to join us. Imagine exploring Imperial Cities, traversing the High Atlas, and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven.</p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, with its doors of wonder, invites you to step into a world where each door opens onto a new chapter of discovery. Are you ready to turn the handle and be part of our tale?</p>
<p>The adventure awaits in 2024!</p>Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder2023-11-28T12:53:47+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/morocco-behind-the-doors-of-wonder/<p><strong>Exploring Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder</strong></p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, often hailed as the "Country of Doors," beckons with promises of enchantment and discovery. Join us on a virtual expedition through the winding streets, bustling medinas, and, most notably, the captivating doors that open the gateway to extraordinary experiences. Our October 2023 tour group embarked on a journey that unfolded like the pages of a mesmerising travelogue.</p>
<p><strong>A Pictorial Prelude</strong></p>
<p>Capturing the essence of Morocco is an art, and our travel companions did just that. Which door spoke to you? Which one whispered tales of untold adventures?</p>
<p><strong>Marrakech: Chaos to Tranquility</strong></p>
<p>Beryl Van Niekerk paints a vivid picture of our day in Marrakech, a city that pulsates with life. The medina, a chaotic tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells, welcomed our curious group. Motorbikes danced through crowded alleys, bicycles chimed their bells, and sellers beckoned us with the treasures of Morocco. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a large door stood as a gateway to tranquility.</p>
<p>As we stepped through, the busy streets disappeared, replaced by a serene moment in the shadow of the Minaret. Eyes closed, we embraced the calm, momentarily escaping the vibrant frenzy outside. Our guide's voice broke the spell, inviting us to explore further.</p>
<p><strong>Culinary Delights and Alleyway Adventures</strong></p>
<p>Beyond the doors, our journey continued through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing new treasures. Dates, olives, and bread tantalised our taste buds, shared by vendors whose lives were dedicated to these culinary delights. The culmination of our culinary adventure was a shared platter of roasted lamb, bread, and olives—a simple yet mouth-watering meal that left us satiated, reclining in reflection.</p>
<p><strong>Djemaa El Fna Square: A Cultural Spectacle</strong></p>
<p>The afternoon led us to Djemaa El Fna square, an open-air theater of Moroccan culture. Drummers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers transformed the square into a vibrant spectacle. Monkeys squawked while chained to their owners, and umbrella-huddled fortune tellers painted promising futures. It was a sensory immersion into the heart of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Jardin Majorelle: A Haven of Cobalt Blue</strong></p>
<p>The day's crescendo unfolded at the Berber Museum within the Jardin Majorelle Garden. The vibrant cobalt blue, strategically infused by Yves Saint Laurent, enveloped us in a different kind of magic. The garden, acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner in 1980, became a canvas preserving the artistic legacy of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead to 2024</strong></p>
<p>As the sun set on our day in Marrakech, the promise of more adventures lingered. Our group has decided to return to Morocco in 2024, and we invite you to join us. Imagine exploring Imperial Cities, traversing the High Atlas, and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven.</p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, with its doors of wonder, invites you to step into a world where each door opens onto a new chapter of discovery. Are you ready to turn the handle and be part of our tale?</p>
<p>The adventure awaits in 2024!</p>Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder2023-11-28T12:53:47+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/morocco-behind-the-doors-of-wonder/<p><strong>Exploring Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder</strong></p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, often hailed as the "Country of Doors," beckons with promises of enchantment and discovery. Join us on a virtual expedition through the winding streets, bustling medinas, and, most notably, the captivating doors that open the gateway to extraordinary experiences. Our October 2023 tour group embarked on a journey that unfolded like the pages of a mesmerising travelogue.</p>
<p><strong>A Pictorial Prelude</strong></p>
<p>Capturing the essence of Morocco is an art, and our travel companions did just that. Which door spoke to you? Which one whispered tales of untold adventures?</p>
<p><strong>Marrakech: Chaos to Tranquility</strong></p>
<p>Beryl Van Niekerk paints a vivid picture of our day in Marrakech, a city that pulsates with life. The medina, a chaotic tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells, welcomed our curious group. Motorbikes danced through crowded alleys, bicycles chimed their bells, and sellers beckoned us with the treasures of Morocco. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a large door stood as a gateway to tranquility.</p>
<p>As we stepped through, the busy streets disappeared, replaced by a serene moment in the shadow of the Minaret. Eyes closed, we embraced the calm, momentarily escaping the vibrant frenzy outside. Our guide's voice broke the spell, inviting us to explore further.</p>
<p><strong>Culinary Delights and Alleyway Adventures</strong></p>
<p>Beyond the doors, our journey continued through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing new treasures. Dates, olives, and bread tantalised our taste buds, shared by vendors whose lives were dedicated to these culinary delights. The culmination of our culinary adventure was a shared platter of roasted lamb, bread, and olives—a simple yet mouth-watering meal that left us satiated, reclining in reflection.</p>
<p><strong>Djemaa El Fna Square: A Cultural Spectacle</strong></p>
<p>The afternoon led us to Djemaa El Fna square, an open-air theater of Moroccan culture. Drummers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers transformed the square into a vibrant spectacle. Monkeys squawked while chained to their owners, and umbrella-huddled fortune tellers painted promising futures. It was a sensory immersion into the heart of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Jardin Majorelle: A Haven of Cobalt Blue</strong></p>
<p>The day's crescendo unfolded at the Berber Museum within the Jardin Majorelle Garden. The vibrant cobalt blue, strategically infused by Yves Saint Laurent, enveloped us in a different kind of magic. The garden, acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner in 1980, became a canvas preserving the artistic legacy of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead to 2024</strong></p>
<p>As the sun set on our day in Marrakech, the promise of more adventures lingered. Our group has decided to return to Morocco in 2024, and we invite you to join us. Imagine exploring Imperial Cities, traversing the High Atlas, and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven.</p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, with its doors of wonder, invites you to step into a world where each door opens onto a new chapter of discovery. Are you ready to turn the handle and be part of our tale?</p>
<p>The adventure awaits in 2024!</p>Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder2023-11-28T12:53:47+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/morocco-behind-the-doors-of-wonder/<p><strong>Exploring Morocco: Behind the Doors of Wonder</strong></p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, often hailed as the "Country of Doors," beckons with promises of enchantment and discovery. Join us on a virtual expedition through the winding streets, bustling medinas, and, most notably, the captivating doors that open the gateway to extraordinary experiences. Our October 2023 tour group embarked on a journey that unfolded like the pages of a mesmerising travelogue.</p>
<p><strong>A Pictorial Prelude</strong></p>
<p>Capturing the essence of Morocco is an art, and our travel companions did just that. Which door spoke to you? Which one whispered tales of untold adventures?</p>
<p><strong>Marrakech: Chaos to Tranquility</strong></p>
<p>Beryl Van Niekerk paints a vivid picture of our day in Marrakech, a city that pulsates with life. The medina, a chaotic tapestry of sights, sounds, and smells, welcomed our curious group. Motorbikes danced through crowded alleys, bicycles chimed their bells, and sellers beckoned us with the treasures of Morocco. Amidst this orchestrated chaos, a large door stood as a gateway to tranquility.</p>
<p>As we stepped through, the busy streets disappeared, replaced by a serene moment in the shadow of the Minaret. Eyes closed, we embraced the calm, momentarily escaping the vibrant frenzy outside. Our guide's voice broke the spell, inviting us to explore further.</p>
<p><strong>Culinary Delights and Alleyway Adventures</strong></p>
<p>Beyond the doors, our journey continued through narrow alleyways, each turn revealing new treasures. Dates, olives, and bread tantalised our taste buds, shared by vendors whose lives were dedicated to these culinary delights. The culmination of our culinary adventure was a shared platter of roasted lamb, bread, and olives—a simple yet mouth-watering meal that left us satiated, reclining in reflection.</p>
<p><strong>Djemaa El Fna Square: A Cultural Spectacle</strong></p>
<p>The afternoon led us to Djemaa El Fna square, an open-air theater of Moroccan culture. Drummers, snake charmers, and fortune tellers transformed the square into a vibrant spectacle. Monkeys squawked while chained to their owners, and umbrella-huddled fortune tellers painted promising futures. It was a sensory immersion into the heart of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Jardin Majorelle: A Haven of Cobalt Blue</strong></p>
<p>The day's crescendo unfolded at the Berber Museum within the Jardin Majorelle Garden. The vibrant cobalt blue, strategically infused by Yves Saint Laurent, enveloped us in a different kind of magic. The garden, acquired by Yves Saint Laurent and his partner in 1980, became a canvas preserving the artistic legacy of Morocco.</p>
<p><strong>Looking Ahead to 2024</strong></p>
<p>As the sun set on our day in Marrakech, the promise of more adventures lingered. Our group has decided to return to Morocco in 2024, and we invite you to join us. Imagine exploring Imperial Cities, traversing the High Atlas, and sleeping under the stars in the Sahara Desert—a tapestry of experiences waiting to be woven.</p>
<p><a href="/tour/timeless-morocco/"><strong>Morocco</strong></a>, with its doors of wonder, invites you to step into a world where each door opens onto a new chapter of discovery. Are you ready to turn the handle and be part of our tale?</p>
<p>The adventure awaits in 2024!</p>Boundless Mongolia2023-09-19T09:34:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/boundless-mongolia/<p class="s3">Boundless Mongolia</p>
<p class="s3">By Laetitia de Lange</p>
<p></p>
<p>At first, we were disappointed when Live the Journey informed us that 2018 is not the year that they are planning for a guided, 4x4 self-drive tour to Iceland. They suggested <strong><a href="/tour/mongolia-guided-self-drive-adventure/">Mongolia</a></strong> instead when we enquired about Iceland. None of us even knew where Mongolia is on the map! The only knowledge we had was fromthe series ‘Marco Polo’ that we were watching on Netflix! We decided to open a map and establish Mongolia’s location. We were quite surprised by the size of the country that nestled in between Russia and China. It is the 18th largest country in the world, but listen to this, it is also the most sparsely populated country, with only around three million inhabitants. Definitely not a crowded place. After contemplating for a few days, we decided to be bold and go to Mongolia.</p>
<p>Ulaanbaatar is the capital city of Mongolia and that is where our journey started. Flying to Ulaanbaatar was an exhausting 26 hours, but we were greeted by our friendly guide, Baatar,who assisted us in acquiring our visas at the airport. We were transported to our surprisingly western style hotel, which was about 30 minutes from the airport. On our first night in Ulaanbaatar, we were taken to a restaurant and introduced to some local cuisine. The food was very similar to ours in South Africa, whichinclude different kinds of meat and vegetables. They have a very interesting style of making stir-fry by using two enormous spatulas. What an interesting show to watch.</p>
<p>The next day we visited one of the Buddhist temples in the city to learn more about their religion. Afterwards, we did some quick last-minute shopping before our journey into the wild started. We also received the keys to our Land Cruiser 100-series vehicles. That evening we were entertained by a show of Mongolia’s traditional throat singing, instruments, dancing and contortionists. We were absolutely amazed by this and thoroughly enjoyed watching something completely different than what we are accustomed to. I realised we still had a lot to learn from this country.</p>
<p>Day three and we were all packed and ready to start our self-drive journey. We had a hilarious moment just before we started our journey when hubby and I both climbed into the wrong sides of the vehicle. We forgot that Mongolians drive on the right side of the road. After correcting our mistake, we were off on a wet and cold day.</p>
<p>At first, we were on tarred roads which helped us getting used to driving on the right side of the road while admiring the city, and shortly after, seeing some ‘ger’ accommodations. A ger is the traditional home of Mongols. It looks similar to the ‘rondavels’ in South Africa, but instead is made of wooden mesh, plastic isolation and animal wool. We then proceeded to the south of Ulaanbaatar and began our route on gravel. The open vastness of the country was breath-taking, with green pastures as far as the eye can see. Weheard that Mongolia experienced a higher-than-normal rainfall, which resulted in the landscape being a lot greener than usual, which made our experience even more spectacular.</p>
<p>We saw a lot of domesticated animals, like horses, camels and yaks. They are allowed to roam freely. Large herds of sheep and goats would wash over the hills into the valleys late afternoons to find protection against the elements for the night. We learned that in Mongolia there were more animals than people… three million people versus 60 million animals. There were no border fences to be seen anywhere and we were fascinated by the fact that the nomads were able to live next to each other and share the land with each other’s animals without erecting fences.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="/static/media/uploads/_17a1115.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>Lunch was enjoyed on the lovely green pastures and Baatar enlightened us with some history of Mongolia. Of course, Genghis Khan played an enormous role in putting Mongolia on the map and strengthening the silk route. In his lifetime, he conquered more land than the Roman Empire managed during its entire existence! Our first night was spent in a traditional ‘tourist’ ger. What a wonderful experience. Our round room was spacious, comfy and warm. Gers are so much a part of nomadic Mongolianlife, you have to experience it to connect with the country and its people. The tourist ger camps are upgraded compared to the traditional versions and have communal dining areaswhere buffet meals are served. The ger-camps where we stayed were all located in the most beautiful places. </p>
<p>We started to move westward into the Gobi Desert area and instead of having the normal views of different shades of brown, it was green! The rain certainly turned the landscape intoa totally different view. It was also surprising to smell all the plants and herbs when getting out of our vehicles. From wild onion to juniper and lavender. What a paradise to be in.</p>
<p>We did our first wild camp in the Gobi Desert. What luxury we experienced. Baatar’s team assisted in pitching our rooftop tents and the wonderful cook, Yaganath, made some really amazing Mongolian food from inside her little minivan. We even had dessert. I wish I couldtake her home with me. Even my fussy daughter enjoyed her cuisine. The setting of this luxury wilderness camp was absolutely magical. We felt like the first people ever to camp at this spot. Baatar did not just know about Mongolian traditions, he knew that South Africans enjoy big fires and did not disappoint when we were able to sit around a lovely campfire to keep warm.</p>
<p>We drove through the Gobi Desert for a few days, and although I initially thought that it would consist of dunes only, we drove through different terrains. We had a day or two of rain and it started to get really muddy, but it allowed for lots of fun. We even assisted fellow drivers who got stuck in the mud in the desert! We visited a local nomadic Mongolian family and was hosted inside their ger, tasted horse milk and some scrumptious biscuits. </p>
<p>Not once did we see border fences and even roads were sometimes non-existent. We were allowed to drive wherever we could in the countryside. When passing through towns, I was reminded about the rural areas in our country. The towns were basic, with perhaps one or two small shops, and in some towns, there was only a single fuel pump. The houses were painted in bright colours and very few roads were tarred.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="/static/media/uploads/_17a0903.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></p>
<p>We visited the flaming cliffs where the American explorer, Roy Chapman Andrews, discovered dinosaur eggs and other fossils, a palaeontologist’s paradise. We were even allowed to dig for dinosaur bones. After enjoying ourselves thoroughly as archaeologists, we headed for a small village, Saikhan-Ovoo, in the middle of the Gobi province. Here we visited two monastery ruins. Both of them were destroyed by the communist purges in the late 1930’s.</p>
<p>Next was Karakorum, the first capital city of Mongolia, founded by the grandson of Genghis Khan, Kublai Khan. Here we also visited the biggest waterfall in Mongolia, the Orkhon Waterfall. It is worth mentioning the number of different birds we saw. The keen birdwatchers in our group were ecstatic. Mongolia has more than 400 bird species. The migration routes from the Indian and Pacific Ocean to the Mediterranean and the Arctic cross over the country, which makes it a birdwatcher’s paradise.</p>
<p>Our route started moving towards the north and the temperatures were dropping lower the further north we moved. We were on our way to Lake Khövsgöl, which is one of Mongolia’s gems. The Russian border is not far from the lake. The views were beautiful with wonderful sunsets and we had a delicious dinner next to the lake, enjoying Yaganath’s amazing dishes.Here Baatar made a fire with animal dung, which of course is plentiful in Mongolia and is used as one of their fuels to keep their gers warm, and to cook. Surprisingly, it had no smell and it worked just as well as firewood.</p>
<p>After spending two nights next to the lake, we started moving eastward, back to Ulaanbaatar.We visited an enormous volcanic crater as well as one of the most prominent monasteries, the Amarbayasgalant Monastery.</p>
<p>Our last wild camp ended next to a river where we were entertained by local nomadic Mongols showing us how they herd their horses with experienced horse riders. Imagine, a herd of 500 wild horses. What a fascinating show to watch as they swiftly move through their herds and use rope to catch a wild horse. We were also given a special meal, which is similar to our ‘potjies’, but they cook their meat together with hot stones inside. It was a nostalgic and sad evening, knowing that it would be our last night under the trillions of stars, enjoying the humble life of local nomads.</p>
<p>We headed back to Ulaanbaatar the next day and had a farewell dinner at an Indian restaurant in the city. It was sad to say goodbye, as all of us became the best of friends having spentover 17 days together. It was the most amazing experience. Something I never thought of putting on my bucket list, but surely want to tell everyone to make the effort once in their lifetime to go to Mongolia. I felt like a pioneer who discovered a country for the first time.There are so few people who know about the gems of Mongolia and would never think of swapping the usual places for this unusual destination. Paris, London and the Mediterranean-feel is so overrated now that we’ve had the opportunity (and guts) to visit Mongolia!</p>
<p><a href="/tour/mongolia-guided-self-drive-adventure/"><strong>Mongolia</strong></a> is a place where your soul is soothed. Leaving you with the revelation that all the materialistic stuff in our lives matter too much to us. Mongolia offers brilliant, diamond-studded night skies. Open spaces that never end. There are no boundaries. This is a place where the humble are happy and content. This place wants you to go back and start over and not race forward. This is how it should be.</p>
<p> </p>Boundless Mongolia2023-09-19T09:34:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/boundless-mongolia/<p class="s3">Boundless Mongolia</p>
<p class="s3">By Laetitia de Lange</p>
<p></p>
<p>At first, we were disappointed when Live the Journey informed us that 2018 is not the year that they are planning for a guided, 4x4 self-drive tour to Iceland. They suggested <strong><a href="/tour/mongolia-guided-self-drive-adventure/">Mongolia</a></strong> instead when we enquired about Iceland. None of us even knew where Mongolia is on the map! The only knowledge we had was fromthe series ‘Marco Polo’ that we were watching on Netflix! We decided to open a map and establish Mongolia’s location. We were quite surprised by the size of the country that nestled in between Russia and China. It is the 18th largest country in the world, but listen to this, it is also the most sparsely populated country, with only around three million inhabitants. Definitely not a crowded place. After contemplating for a few days, we decided to be bold and go to Mongolia.</p>
<p>Ulaanbaatar is the capital city of Mongolia and that is where our journey started. Flying to Ulaanbaatar was an exhausting 26 hours, but we were greeted by our friendly guide, Baatar,who assisted us in acquiring our visas at the airport. We were transported to our surprisingly western style hotel, which was about 30 minutes from the airport. On our first night in Ulaanbaatar, we were taken to a restaurant and introduced to some local cuisine. The food was very similar to ours in South Africa, whichinclude different kinds of meat and vegetables. They have a very interesting style of making stir-fry by using two enormous spatulas. What an interesting show to watch.</p>
<p>The next day we visited one of the Buddhist temples in the city to learn more about their religion. Afterwards, we did some quick last-minute shopping before our journey into the wild started. We also received the keys to our Land Cruiser 100-series vehicles. That evening we were entertained by a show of Mongolia’s traditional throat singing, instruments, dancing and contortionists. We were absolutely amazed by this and thoroughly enjoyed watching something completely different than what we are accustomed to. I realised we still had a lot to learn from this country.</p>
<p>Day three and we were all packed and ready to start our self-drive journey. We had a hilarious moment just before we started our journey when hubby and I both climbed into the wrong sides of the vehicle. We forgot that Mongolians drive on the right side of the road. After correcting our mistake, we were off on a wet and cold day.</p>
<p>At first, we were on tarred roads which helped us getting used to driving on the right side of the road while admiring the city, and shortly after, seeing some ‘ger’ accommodations. A ger is the traditional home of Mongols. It looks similar to the ‘rondavels’ in South Africa, but instead is made of wooden mesh, plastic isolation and animal wool. We then proceeded to the south of Ulaanbaatar and began our route on gravel. The open vastness of the country was breath-taking, with green pastures as far as the eye can see. Weheard that Mongolia experienced a higher-than-normal rainfall, which resulted in the landscape being a lot greener than usual, which made our experience even more spectacular.</p>
<p>We saw a lot of domesticated animals, like horses, camels and yaks. They are allowed to roam freely. Large herds of sheep and goats would wash over the hills into the valleys late afternoons to find protection against the elements for the night. We learned that in Mongolia there were more animals than people… three million people versus 60 million animals. There were no border fences to be seen anywhere and we were fascinated by the fact that the nomads were able to live next to each other and share the land with each other’s animals without erecting fences.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="/static/media/uploads/_17a1115.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>Lunch was enjoyed on the lovely green pastures and Baatar enlightened us with some history of Mongolia. Of course, Genghis Khan played an enormous role in putting Mongolia on the map and strengthening the silk route. In his lifetime, he conquered more land than the Roman Empire managed during its entire existence! Our first night was spent in a traditional ‘tourist’ ger. What a wonderful experience. Our round room was spacious, comfy and warm. Gers are so much a part of nomadic Mongolianlife, you have to experience it to connect with the country and its people. The tourist ger camps are upgraded compared to the traditional versions and have communal dining areaswhere buffet meals are served. The ger-camps where we stayed were all located in the most beautiful places. </p>
<p>We started to move westward into the Gobi Desert area and instead of having the normal views of different shades of brown, it was green! The rain certainly turned the landscape intoa totally different view. It was also surprising to smell all the plants and herbs when getting out of our vehicles. From wild onion to juniper and lavender. What a paradise to be in.</p>
<p>We did our first wild camp in the Gobi Desert. What luxury we experienced. Baatar’s team assisted in pitching our rooftop tents and the wonderful cook, Yaganath, made some really amazing Mongolian food from inside her little minivan. We even had dessert. I wish I couldtake her home with me. Even my fussy daughter enjoyed her cuisine. The setting of this luxury wilderness camp was absolutely magical. We felt like the first people ever to camp at this spot. Baatar did not just know about Mongolian traditions, he knew that South Africans enjoy big fires and did not disappoint when we were able to sit around a lovely campfire to keep warm.</p>
<p>We drove through the Gobi Desert for a few days, and although I initially thought that it would consist of dunes only, we drove through different terrains. We had a day or two of rain and it started to get really muddy, but it allowed for lots of fun. We even assisted fellow drivers who got stuck in the mud in the desert! We visited a local nomadic Mongolian family and was hosted inside their ger, tasted horse milk and some scrumptious biscuits. </p>
<p>Not once did we see border fences and even roads were sometimes non-existent. We were allowed to drive wherever we could in the countryside. When passing through towns, I was reminded about the rural areas in our country. The towns were basic, with perhaps one or two small shops, and in some towns, there was only a single fuel pump. The houses were painted in bright colours and very few roads were tarred.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="/static/media/uploads/_17a0903.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></p>
<p>We visited the flaming cliffs where the American explorer, Roy Chapman Andrews, discovered dinosaur eggs and other fossils, a palaeontologist’s paradise. We were even allowed to dig for dinosaur bones. After enjoying ourselves thoroughly as archaeologists, we headed for a small village, Saikhan-Ovoo, in the middle of the Gobi province. Here we visited two monastery ruins. Both of them were destroyed by the communist purges in the late 1930’s.</p>
<p>Next was Karakorum, the first capital city of Mongolia, founded by the grandson of Genghis Khan, Kublai Khan. Here we also visited the biggest waterfall in Mongolia, the Orkhon Waterfall. It is worth mentioning the number of different birds we saw. The keen birdwatchers in our group were ecstatic. Mongolia has more than 400 bird species. The migration routes from the Indian and Pacific Ocean to the Mediterranean and the Arctic cross over the country, which makes it a birdwatcher’s paradise.</p>
<p>Our route started moving towards the north and the temperatures were dropping lower the further north we moved. We were on our way to Lake Khövsgöl, which is one of Mongolia’s gems. The Russian border is not far from the lake. The views were beautiful with wonderful sunsets and we had a delicious dinner next to the lake, enjoying Yaganath’s amazing dishes.Here Baatar made a fire with animal dung, which of course is plentiful in Mongolia and is used as one of their fuels to keep their gers warm, and to cook. Surprisingly, it had no smell and it worked just as well as firewood.</p>
<p>After spending two nights next to the lake, we started moving eastward, back to Ulaanbaatar.We visited an enormous volcanic crater as well as one of the most prominent monasteries, the Amarbayasgalant Monastery.</p>
<p>Our last wild camp ended next to a river where we were entertained by local nomadic Mongols showing us how they herd their horses with experienced horse riders. Imagine, a herd of 500 wild horses. What a fascinating show to watch as they swiftly move through their herds and use rope to catch a wild horse. We were also given a special meal, which is similar to our ‘potjies’, but they cook their meat together with hot stones inside. It was a nostalgic and sad evening, knowing that it would be our last night under the trillions of stars, enjoying the humble life of local nomads.</p>
<p>We headed back to Ulaanbaatar the next day and had a farewell dinner at an Indian restaurant in the city. It was sad to say goodbye, as all of us became the best of friends having spentover 17 days together. It was the most amazing experience. Something I never thought of putting on my bucket list, but surely want to tell everyone to make the effort once in their lifetime to go to Mongolia. I felt like a pioneer who discovered a country for the first time.There are so few people who know about the gems of Mongolia and would never think of swapping the usual places for this unusual destination. Paris, London and the Mediterranean-feel is so overrated now that we’ve had the opportunity (and guts) to visit Mongolia!</p>
<p><a href="/tour/mongolia-guided-self-drive-adventure/"><strong>Mongolia</strong></a> is a place where your soul is soothed. Leaving you with the revelation that all the materialistic stuff in our lives matter too much to us. Mongolia offers brilliant, diamond-studded night skies. Open spaces that never end. There are no boundaries. This is a place where the humble are happy and content. This place wants you to go back and start over and not race forward. This is how it should be.</p>
<p> </p>Boundless Mongolia2023-09-19T09:34:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/boundless-mongolia/<p class="s3">Boundless Mongolia</p>
<p class="s3">By Laetitia de Lange</p>
<p></p>
<p>At first, we were disappointed when Live the Journey informed us that 2018 is not the year that they are planning for a guided, 4x4 self-drive tour to Iceland. They suggested <strong><a href="/tour/mongolia-guided-self-drive-adventure/">Mongolia</a></strong> instead when we enquired about Iceland. None of us even knew where Mongolia is on the map! The only knowledge we had was fromthe series ‘Marco Polo’ that we were watching on Netflix! We decided to open a map and establish Mongolia’s location. We were quite surprised by the size of the country that nestled in between Russia and China. It is the 18th largest country in the world, but listen to this, it is also the most sparsely populated country, with only around three million inhabitants. Definitely not a crowded place. After contemplating for a few days, we decided to be bold and go to Mongolia.</p>
<p>Ulaanbaatar is the capital city of Mongolia and that is where our journey started. Flying to Ulaanbaatar was an exhausting 26 hours, but we were greeted by our friendly guide, Baatar,who assisted us in acquiring our visas at the airport. We were transported to our surprisingly western style hotel, which was about 30 minutes from the airport. On our first night in Ulaanbaatar, we were taken to a restaurant and introduced to some local cuisine. The food was very similar to ours in South Africa, whichinclude different kinds of meat and vegetables. They have a very interesting style of making stir-fry by using two enormous spatulas. What an interesting show to watch.</p>
<p>The next day we visited one of the Buddhist temples in the city to learn more about their religion. Afterwards, we did some quick last-minute shopping before our journey into the wild started. We also received the keys to our Land Cruiser 100-series vehicles. That evening we were entertained by a show of Mongolia’s traditional throat singing, instruments, dancing and contortionists. We were absolutely amazed by this and thoroughly enjoyed watching something completely different than what we are accustomed to. I realised we still had a lot to learn from this country.</p>
<p>Day three and we were all packed and ready to start our self-drive journey. We had a hilarious moment just before we started our journey when hubby and I both climbed into the wrong sides of the vehicle. We forgot that Mongolians drive on the right side of the road. After correcting our mistake, we were off on a wet and cold day.</p>
<p>At first, we were on tarred roads which helped us getting used to driving on the right side of the road while admiring the city, and shortly after, seeing some ‘ger’ accommodations. A ger is the traditional home of Mongols. It looks similar to the ‘rondavels’ in South Africa, but instead is made of wooden mesh, plastic isolation and animal wool. We then proceeded to the south of Ulaanbaatar and began our route on gravel. The open vastness of the country was breath-taking, with green pastures as far as the eye can see. Weheard that Mongolia experienced a higher-than-normal rainfall, which resulted in the landscape being a lot greener than usual, which made our experience even more spectacular.</p>
<p>We saw a lot of domesticated animals, like horses, camels and yaks. They are allowed to roam freely. Large herds of sheep and goats would wash over the hills into the valleys late afternoons to find protection against the elements for the night. We learned that in Mongolia there were more animals than people… three million people versus 60 million animals. There were no border fences to be seen anywhere and we were fascinated by the fact that the nomads were able to live next to each other and share the land with each other’s animals without erecting fences.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="/static/media/uploads/_17a1115.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>Lunch was enjoyed on the lovely green pastures and Baatar enlightened us with some history of Mongolia. Of course, Genghis Khan played an enormous role in putting Mongolia on the map and strengthening the silk route. In his lifetime, he conquered more land than the Roman Empire managed during its entire existence! Our first night was spent in a traditional ‘tourist’ ger. What a wonderful experience. Our round room was spacious, comfy and warm. Gers are so much a part of nomadic Mongolianlife, you have to experience it to connect with the country and its people. The tourist ger camps are upgraded compared to the traditional versions and have communal dining areaswhere buffet meals are served. The ger-camps where we stayed were all located in the most beautiful places. </p>
<p>We started to move westward into the Gobi Desert area and instead of having the normal views of different shades of brown, it was green! The rain certainly turned the landscape intoa totally different view. It was also surprising to smell all the plants and herbs when getting out of our vehicles. From wild onion to juniper and lavender. What a paradise to be in.</p>
<p>We did our first wild camp in the Gobi Desert. What luxury we experienced. Baatar’s team assisted in pitching our rooftop tents and the wonderful cook, Yaganath, made some really amazing Mongolian food from inside her little minivan. We even had dessert. I wish I couldtake her home with me. Even my fussy daughter enjoyed her cuisine. The setting of this luxury wilderness camp was absolutely magical. We felt like the first people ever to camp at this spot. Baatar did not just know about Mongolian traditions, he knew that South Africans enjoy big fires and did not disappoint when we were able to sit around a lovely campfire to keep warm.</p>
<p>We drove through the Gobi Desert for a few days, and although I initially thought that it would consist of dunes only, we drove through different terrains. We had a day or two of rain and it started to get really muddy, but it allowed for lots of fun. We even assisted fellow drivers who got stuck in the mud in the desert! We visited a local nomadic Mongolian family and was hosted inside their ger, tasted horse milk and some scrumptious biscuits. </p>
<p>Not once did we see border fences and even roads were sometimes non-existent. We were allowed to drive wherever we could in the countryside. When passing through towns, I was reminded about the rural areas in our country. The towns were basic, with perhaps one or two small shops, and in some towns, there was only a single fuel pump. The houses were painted in bright colours and very few roads were tarred.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="/static/media/uploads/_17a0903.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></p>
<p>We visited the flaming cliffs where the American explorer, Roy Chapman Andrews, discovered dinosaur eggs and other fossils, a palaeontologist’s paradise. We were even allowed to dig for dinosaur bones. After enjoying ourselves thoroughly as archaeologists, we headed for a small village, Saikhan-Ovoo, in the middle of the Gobi province. Here we visited two monastery ruins. Both of them were destroyed by the communist purges in the late 1930’s.</p>
<p>Next was Karakorum, the first capital city of Mongolia, founded by the grandson of Genghis Khan, Kublai Khan. Here we also visited the biggest waterfall in Mongolia, the Orkhon Waterfall. It is worth mentioning the number of different birds we saw. The keen birdwatchers in our group were ecstatic. Mongolia has more than 400 bird species. The migration routes from the Indian and Pacific Ocean to the Mediterranean and the Arctic cross over the country, which makes it a birdwatcher’s paradise.</p>
<p>Our route started moving towards the north and the temperatures were dropping lower the further north we moved. We were on our way to Lake Khövsgöl, which is one of Mongolia’s gems. The Russian border is not far from the lake. The views were beautiful with wonderful sunsets and we had a delicious dinner next to the lake, enjoying Yaganath’s amazing dishes.Here Baatar made a fire with animal dung, which of course is plentiful in Mongolia and is used as one of their fuels to keep their gers warm, and to cook. Surprisingly, it had no smell and it worked just as well as firewood.</p>
<p>After spending two nights next to the lake, we started moving eastward, back to Ulaanbaatar.We visited an enormous volcanic crater as well as one of the most prominent monasteries, the Amarbayasgalant Monastery.</p>
<p>Our last wild camp ended next to a river where we were entertained by local nomadic Mongols showing us how they herd their horses with experienced horse riders. Imagine, a herd of 500 wild horses. What a fascinating show to watch as they swiftly move through their herds and use rope to catch a wild horse. We were also given a special meal, which is similar to our ‘potjies’, but they cook their meat together with hot stones inside. It was a nostalgic and sad evening, knowing that it would be our last night under the trillions of stars, enjoying the humble life of local nomads.</p>
<p>We headed back to Ulaanbaatar the next day and had a farewell dinner at an Indian restaurant in the city. It was sad to say goodbye, as all of us became the best of friends having spentover 17 days together. It was the most amazing experience. Something I never thought of putting on my bucket list, but surely want to tell everyone to make the effort once in their lifetime to go to Mongolia. I felt like a pioneer who discovered a country for the first time.There are so few people who know about the gems of Mongolia and would never think of swapping the usual places for this unusual destination. Paris, London and the Mediterranean-feel is so overrated now that we’ve had the opportunity (and guts) to visit Mongolia!</p>
<p><a href="/tour/mongolia-guided-self-drive-adventure/"><strong>Mongolia</strong></a> is a place where your soul is soothed. Leaving you with the revelation that all the materialistic stuff in our lives matter too much to us. Mongolia offers brilliant, diamond-studded night skies. Open spaces that never end. There are no boundaries. This is a place where the humble are happy and content. This place wants you to go back and start over and not race forward. This is how it should be.</p>
<p> </p>Boundless Mongolia2023-09-19T09:34:54+00:00Stella Neethling/blog/author/stella/http://www.livethejourney.co.za/blog/boundless-mongolia/<p class="s3">Boundless Mongolia</p>
<p class="s3">By Laetitia de Lange</p>
<p></p>
<p>At first, we were disappointed when Live the Journey informed us that 2018 is not the year that they are planning for a guided, 4x4 self-drive tour to Iceland. They suggested <strong><a href="/tour/mongolia-guided-self-drive-adventure/">Mongolia</a></strong> instead when we enquired about Iceland. None of us even knew where Mongolia is on the map! The only knowledge we had was fromthe series ‘Marco Polo’ that we were watching on Netflix! We decided to open a map and establish Mongolia’s location. We were quite surprised by the size of the country that nestled in between Russia and China. It is the 18th largest country in the world, but listen to this, it is also the most sparsely populated country, with only around three million inhabitants. Definitely not a crowded place. After contemplating for a few days, we decided to be bold and go to Mongolia.</p>
<p>Ulaanbaatar is the capital city of Mongolia and that is where our journey started. Flying to Ulaanbaatar was an exhausting 26 hours, but we were greeted by our friendly guide, Baatar,who assisted us in acquiring our visas at the airport. We were transported to our surprisingly western style hotel, which was about 30 minutes from the airport. On our first night in Ulaanbaatar, we were taken to a restaurant and introduced to some local cuisine. The food was very similar to ours in South Africa, whichinclude different kinds of meat and vegetables. They have a very interesting style of making stir-fry by using two enormous spatulas. What an interesting show to watch.</p>
<p>The next day we visited one of the Buddhist temples in the city to learn more about their religion. Afterwards, we did some quick last-minute shopping before our journey into the wild started. We also received the keys to our Land Cruiser 100-series vehicles. That evening we were entertained by a show of Mongolia’s traditional throat singing, instruments, dancing and contortionists. We were absolutely amazed by this and thoroughly enjoyed watching something completely different than what we are accustomed to. I realised we still had a lot to learn from this country.</p>
<p>Day three and we were all packed and ready to start our self-drive journey. We had a hilarious moment just before we started our journey when hubby and I both climbed into the wrong sides of the vehicle. We forgot that Mongolians drive on the right side of the road. After correcting our mistake, we were off on a wet and cold day.</p>
<p>At first, we were on tarred roads which helped us getting used to driving on the right side of the road while admiring the city, and shortly after, seeing some ‘ger’ accommodations. A ger is the traditional home of Mongols. It looks similar to the ‘rondavels’ in South Africa, but instead is made of wooden mesh, plastic isolation and animal wool. We then proceeded to the south of Ulaanbaatar and began our route on gravel. The open vastness of the country was breath-taking, with green pastures as far as the eye can see. Weheard that Mongolia experienced a higher-than-normal rainfall, which resulted in the landscape being a lot greener than usual, which made our experience even more spectacular.</p>
<p>We saw a lot of domesticated animals, like horses, camels and yaks. They are allowed to roam freely. Large herds of sheep and goats would wash over the hills into the valleys late afternoons to find protection against the elements for the night. We learned that in Mongolia there were more animals than people… three million people versus 60 million animals. There were no border fences to be seen anywhere and we were fascinated by the fact that the nomads were able to live next to each other and share the land with each other’s animals without erecting fences.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="/static/media/uploads/_17a1115.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></p>
<p></p>
<p>Lunch was enjoyed on the lovely green pastures and Baatar enlightened us with some history of Mongolia. Of course, Genghis Khan played an enormous role in putting Mongolia on the map and strengthening the silk route. In his lifetime, he conquered more land than the Roman Empire managed during its entire existence! Our first night was spent in a traditional ‘tourist’ ger. What a wonderful experience. Our round room was spacious, comfy and warm. Gers are so much a part of nomadic Mongolianlife, you have to experience it to connect with the country and its people. The tourist ger camps are upgraded compared to the traditional versions and have communal dining areaswhere buffet meals are served. The ger-camps where we stayed were all located in the most beautiful places. </p>
<p>We started to move westward into the Gobi Desert area and instead of having the normal views of different shades of brown, it was green! The rain certainly turned the landscape intoa totally different view. It was also surprising to smell all the plants and herbs when getting out of our vehicles. From wild onion to juniper and lavender. What a paradise to be in.</p>
<p>We did our first wild camp in the Gobi Desert. What luxury we experienced. Baatar’s team assisted in pitching our rooftop tents and the wonderful cook, Yaganath, made some really amazing Mongolian food from inside her little minivan. We even had dessert. I wish I couldtake her home with me. Even my fussy daughter enjoyed her cuisine. The setting of this luxury wilderness camp was absolutely magical. We felt like the first people ever to camp at this spot. Baatar did not just know about Mongolian traditions, he knew that South Africans enjoy big fires and did not disappoint when we were able to sit around a lovely campfire to keep warm.</p>
<p>We drove through the Gobi Desert for a few days, and although I initially thought that it would consist of dunes only, we drove through different terrains. We had a day or two of rain and it started to get really muddy, but it allowed for lots of fun. We even assisted fellow drivers who got stuck in the mud in the desert! We visited a local nomadic Mongolian family and was hosted inside their ger, tasted horse milk and some scrumptious biscuits. </p>
<p>Not once did we see border fences and even roads were sometimes non-existent. We were allowed to drive wherever we could in the countryside. When passing through towns, I was reminded about the rural areas in our country. The towns were basic, with perhaps one or two small shops, and in some towns, there was only a single fuel pump. The houses were painted in bright colours and very few roads were tarred.</p>
<p></p>
<p><img src="/static/media/uploads/_17a0903.jpg" width="600" height="400" /></p>
<p>We visited the flaming cliffs where the American explorer, Roy Chapman Andrews, discovered dinosaur eggs and other fossils, a palaeontologist’s paradise. We were even allowed to dig for dinosaur bones. After enjoying ourselves thoroughly as archaeologists, we headed for a small village, Saikhan-Ovoo, in the middle of the Gobi province. Here we visited two monastery ruins. Both of them were destroyed by the communist purges in the late 1930’s.</p>
<p>Next was Karakorum, the first capital city of Mongolia, founded by the grandson of Genghis Khan, Kublai Khan. Here we also visited the biggest waterfall in Mongolia, the Orkhon Waterfall. It is worth mentioning the number of different birds we saw. The keen birdwatchers in our group were ecstatic. Mongolia has more than 400 bird species. The migration routes from the Indian and Pacific Ocean to the Mediterranean and the Arctic cross over the country, which makes it a birdwatcher’s paradise.</p>
<p>Our route started moving towards the north and the temperatures were dropping lower the further north we moved. We were on our way to Lake Khövsgöl, which is one of Mongolia’s gems. The Russian border is not far from the lake. The views were beautiful with wonderful sunsets and we had a delicious dinner next to the lake, enjoying Yaganath’s amazing dishes.Here Baatar made a fire with animal dung, which of course is plentiful in Mongolia and is used as one of their fuels to keep their gers warm, and to cook. Surprisingly, it had no smell and it worked just as well as firewood.</p>
<p>After spending two nights next to the lake, we started moving eastward, back to Ulaanbaatar.We visited an enormous volcanic crater as well as one of the most prominent monasteries, the Amarbayasgalant Monastery.</p>
<p>Our last wild camp ended next to a river where we were entertained by local nomadic Mongols showing us how they herd their horses with experienced horse riders. Imagine, a herd of 500 wild horses. What a fascinating show to watch as they swiftly move through their herds and use rope to catch a wild horse. We were also given a special meal, which is similar to our ‘potjies’, but they cook their meat together with hot stones inside. It was a nostalgic and sad evening, knowing that it would be our last night under the trillions of stars, enjoying the humble life of local nomads.</p>
<p>We headed back to Ulaanbaatar the next day and had a farewell dinner at an Indian restaurant in the city. It was sad to say goodbye, as all of us became the best of friends having spentover 17 days together. It was the most amazing experience. Something I never thought of putting on my bucket list, but surely want to tell everyone to make the effort once in their lifetime to go to Mongolia. I felt like a pioneer who discovered a country for the first time.There are so few people who know about the gems of Mongolia and would never think of swapping the usual places for this unusual destination. Paris, London and the Mediterranean-feel is so overrated now that we’ve had the opportunity (and guts) to visit Mongolia!</p>
<p><a href="/tour/mongolia-guided-self-drive-adventure/"><strong>Mongolia</strong></a> is a place where your soul is soothed. Leaving you with the revelation that all the materialistic stuff in our lives matter too much to us. Mongolia offers brilliant, diamond-studded night skies. Open spaces that never end. There are no boundaries. This is a place where the humble are happy and content. This place wants you to go back and start over and not race forward. This is how it should be.</p>
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