South Africa here we go…
We excitedly picked up the last Young Explorers from the airport in Cape Town for our long awaited Pangaea Geberit South Africa School Project. We were surprised by a sneak view of Martin and Moose before heading off on our two-day journey to Port Elizabeth. It was funny to see everyone that you normally meet in Switzerland now all gathered in South Africa also known as the Rainbow Nation. Our fully packed Mercedes Benz Vitos drove us smoothly through the beautiful and diverse landscape of South Africa’s East Coast. For most of us, it was the first time on the African continent and we were truly amazed by the passing landscapes every time we looked out the window. The green and yellow land contrasted so beautifully with the clear blue sky and ocean as well as with the rich deep red soil.
I was totally unprepared for the welcome we got at the school. Seeing what effort the school made for our arrival was amazing. From being blessed by the traditional Khoi People, listening to how the various cultures are part of the school, all the people working together. It really made me proud of being a South African. (Stefan Osthuizen)
Our first stop was in the small town of Caledon where we met up with Stefan before heading on for the five hour drive to the ocean side town of Mossel Bay, known for its great white shark population, where we would spend our first night. Although small, Mossel Bay is a pretty town! The group got on immediately, especially sitting around the outside fire as a group!
This morning we had a bright and early start to the day, heading off to George to meet up with fellow Young Explorer Lani, whose family friendly welcomed us into their home for delicious home baked goodies! The next stop was the Famous Tsitsikamma Forest and Nature Reserve, Storms River. In true Young Explorers fashion we spontaneously decided to hike the beginning of the world-renown Otter Trail, a stunning coast line hike right next to the ocean!
Two and a half hours later, we arrived back at the Vito to watch an amazing array of colours as the sun set behind the Knysna hills. A truly spectacular sight!
On the road again for the final stretch of our road trip journey, we were on track to Port Elizabeth. The journey was an adventurous one, with Ben getting lost, and Michael oozing his humorous German jokes. But finally we arrived safe and sound! Excited and tired, we stumbled into Port Elizabeth’s King’s Beach Backpackers, a new home for us for the next three weeks!
Our evening discussion was worthwhile after our feast at Spur, and we are all looking forward to the interesting and exciting days lying ahead of us!