NEW EXPERIENCES FOR JULY 2021

It’s hard to believe that we’re over halfway through the year already, but as July comes rolling in and Spring seems not so far away, we thought we’d round up our top favourite experience gifts, from the daring to the relaxing, the culinary to the adventurous. Read on for unique gift inspiration for any occasion!

No matter the current restrictions, Experience Days vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of the purchase, so you or your loved ones have plenty of time to book, redeem and enjoy your one of a kind experience. 

1. Waterfall and Picnic Advanced Horse Riding Experience - R 1100

Kicking off our list is this relaxing horse-riding experience for advanced riders in East London. If you have some existing equestrian skills and are looking to expand your existing knowledge, this East London experience is the perfect choice.

Boasting gorgeous coastline, sprawling nature reserves, charming villages and golden beaches, Kei Mouth is a truly scenic part of the country. 

On arrival at the stables, you'll meet the guides and get acquainted with the horses, before saddling up and checking the stirrups. This experience is suitable for anyone who is comfortable in their riding ability, the pace will be gentle and you'll have plenty of time to admire the scenery and beautiful landscape before stopping at the waterfall for lunch. 

Eat your picnic while the horses rest up, and take a dip in the calm water to cool off - you've earned it! The return ride takes you along the beach on horseback which is a wonderfully unique experience, and a photo opportunity you won't want to miss. 

Whether you're visiting Kei Mouth for the first time or the fiftieth, a relaxing horse riding trek is an experience you'll remember for a lifetime.

2. Speed Boat RIB Ride in Mossel Bay - R 450

Got a need for speed? Then you'll love this super-fast RIB ride in Mossel Bay, like a rollercoaster on water! Seated in South Africa's fastest rigid inflatable boat, and winners of the Trans Agulhas Challenge, you're in for a white-knuckle thrill like no other.

On arrival at Quay 4 in Mossel Bay you'll find the boat's skipper waiting to welcome you on board, ready with life jackets for your safety and comfort. Once all guests are settled in their seats, the engine will start to rumble and cruise a safe distance from the shoreline... then you're off! 

Reaching speeds up to 120kph, you'll tear across the water at an eye-watering pace, powering across long straights and round tight bends, kicking up waves in your wake. This experience is not for the faint-hearted, but definitely not one you'll want to miss!

3. Half Day Constantia Winelands E-Bike Tour for 2 - R 1990

Experience the breath-taking Klein Constantia Wine Estate from the comfortable seat of a E-bike. During this half day guided tour, you’ll follow an expert guide around the private vineyards, taking in the beautiful scenery and tasting premium wines. 

Your tour begins when you meet your guide at Klein Constantia. While you sip a glass of méthode cap classique, the guide will give you a brief introduction and safety briefing, and provide you with a helmet. Next, you’ll be introduced to your ride for the tour... a pedal assist E-bicycle, to ensure the Constantia vineyards are no match for you! 

There’s no better way to navigate the scenic vineyards of Klein Constantia, and as you cruise through the picturesque region with the hills rolling by and the sun on your face, you’re guaranteed to work up quite a thirst. Luckily, a premium wine tasting at the private estate cellar will be waiting for you, serving up the famous Vin de Constance sweet wine. 

Listen to the expert sommeliers explain the richness and diversity of the region's wines, and taste exactly why it is some of the most renowned in the world.

4. Exclusive Wine and Cuisine Tram Tour for 2 - R 4492 

For a true taste of luxury, hop on board the Franschhoek Wine Tram for this exclusive wine and food tasting experience in one of South Africa’s most sought-after wine regions. Your expert guide will accompany you to three wine estates, while you sample the best cuisine and wine the region has to offer. 

You will begin your experience on arrival at Franschhoek Terminal. There, you’ll board a luxury tram bus to begin your one-of-a-kind journey. Admire the jaw-dropping scenery as you cruise along in your tram and the majestic hills roll by outside. 

Your first stop will be at Mont Rochelle for a breakfast and wine pairing, followed by a méthode cap classique and macaron tasting to satisfy your sweet tooth. 

Next, you’ll head to a lunch pairing at Pierneef à La Motte Restaurant. At this stop, you can admire a stunning gallery filled with some of the world’s most collectable pieces – a classy addition to lunch! Finally, you’ll be taken to the underground cellar at Haute Cabrière, where you’ll witness a jaw-dropping Sabrage to truly take the day to the next level! 

You’ll end with a dessert and wine pairing before hopping on the tram to return to Franschhoek Terminal. Please note that stops visited are subject to change depending on what is available.

5. Half Hour Microlight Flight in Hoedspruit - R 1700

Take to the skies with this thirty-minute microlight flight over Hoedspruit in Limpopo province. It’s a flying experience you’ll never forget!

Flights take off from the Hoedspruit Civil Airfield, where you’ll be met by an experienced pilot. They’ll brief you on what to expect before leading you to the lightweight, fixed-wing aircraft. After taking your seats, the pilot will prepare for take-off—and then it’s up, up and away! 

If you’ve never flown in a microlight before, a thirty-minute flight is the perfect introduction. Once you’re at altitude, the pilot will offer a brief flying lesson, allowing you to take the controls yourself. 

Alternatively, you can choose to sit back and simply enjoy the views. A variety of game can be spotted on the ground below, including members of the Big Five. Lions and leopards can be elusive, but you’ve a good chance of seeing elephants, rhinos and buffalos—so be sure to keep a lookout!

6. Half Day Mountain Bike Tour of Elgin for 2 - R 1560

This scenic mountain biking experience is your chance to explore the off-road nature trails of Western Cape's Elgin Valley, taking in breath-taking views of rolling hills and vineyards for miles around. Meeting at the Adventure Centre in Elgin, you and your guest will be introduced to your qualified guide for the day, before getting kitted out with a helmet and mountain bike. 

Following your guide along the trails, you'll see a variety of unique flora and fauna as well as unparalleled views across Elgin Valley - don't forget your camera as there'll be plenty of opportunity to stop for photos! The trails are popular with professional mountain bikers and even feature in the annual FNB Wines2Whales race, so you're guaranteed a challenging but utterly picturesque experience. 

After three hours of biking and sightseeing you'll head back to the Adventure Centre to complete your activity, most likely a little out of breath but grinning from ear to ear!

Thanks for reading!

Thanks for reading our guide to the top experience gifts for July 2021. We hope you’ve found something fun to do yourself, or a gift for someone else. Remember, no matter the current restrictions, Experience Days gift vouchers are valid for 3 years from the date of purchase, so they have plenty of time to book and enjoy their unique gift.