Reconnect with the earth at the malaria-free Bushmanskloof Wilderness Reserve, just a few hours drive north of Cape Town. Encompassing 7 500 hectares of pristine landscape and home to a denser concentration of plant species (775 indigenous species) than the Amazon rainforest, the reserve is a World Heritage Site protecting 130 ancient KhoiSan rock art sites.

Dazzling sunbirds dart from shrub to shrub, while overhead the African fish eagle soars through the luminous sky, just two of the 150 bird species regularly spotted here. Cedar trees provide shade, and the mountain streams, water for the striking Cape Mountain zebra, cape clawless otter, variety of antelope and the Aardvark that call this region home. A natural paradise, the reserve can be explored on nature drives or via walking and hiking trails. The vast open spaces, sense of timelessness and exquisite natural beauty make this destination a fabulous place to reconnect with body and soul. Experience this ancient landscape by swimming in secluded rock pools, canoeing down rivers, trying one’s hand at archery or simply soaking up the view while indulging in spa treatments or a gym work out. For the soul, meditation on mountaintops, stargazing, fishing and photography do the trick.