Just being surrounded by bountiful nature, rejuvenates and inspires us…

We have so disconnected ourselves from the natural world that it is easy — and often convenient — to forget that nature remains as giving as ever, even as it vanishes bit-by-bit.

Technology and industry may have distanced us superficially from nature, but it has not changed our reliance upon the natural world: most of what we use and consume on a daily basis remains the product of multitudes of interactions within nature, and many of those interactions have been catastrophically imperilled.

Beyond such physical goods, the natural world provides less tangible, but just as important, gifts in terms of beauty, art, and spirituality.

Being in nature has a profound impact on our brains and our behaviour; helping us to reduce anxiety and stress, and increase our attention capacity, creativity, and even our ability to connect with other people.

We at Active Escapes have always felt that, and that is why all our trips take place in beautiful natural surrounds, far from the madding crowds.

Sometimes it’s just about BEING in nature, and we have some great getaways where this can be….

Nature Retreats

Discover naturally good getaways, where you can just BE

Maseke Wilderness Trail

This is a unique ‘mobile safari’ – where passage is on foot, and nights are spent in a mobile tented camp, set-up in a new wilderness location each night. Come trail, burden-free, in Maseke Bulule Big-5 reserve.

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Tugela Bush Camp

Plug out and reconnect

Wake to the call of a fish-eagle, partake in early morning game walks, sunbathe on one of the giant boulders in front of camp, or unwind with sundowners, a roaring campfire, open-air dining and evening skies awash with stars. From fly-fishing and birding to more adventurous pursuits such as river rafting and abseiling, you'll never run short of things to do at this eco-camp nestled in the heart of the Tugela valley.

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Tugela Canyons Trail

ReWild

Following the flow of the mighty Tugela River, between Colenso and Weenen – along old jeep tracks, animal paths, and onto the handcrafted trails around Tugela Bush Camp. On this slackpacking trail, one can expect wild terrain, diverse game and bird encounters, delicious campfire cuisine, and conscious re-wilding.

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Yoga, Cobra and Snorkel

Enjoy barefoot wanderings along golden beaches, forest bathing, yoga, coaching and mindful plant-based eating on our 4 day retreat at Gugs, Maputaland.

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Pafuri Walking Trail

Our private trails camp, used as our base for exploration, is positioned on the banks of the Luvuvhu River, an idyllic setting where animals congregate and over which the moon waxes and wanes. This Wilderness trail is an immersion into one of the oldest and most ecologically diverse wilderness areas in South Africa.

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Pondoland Tented Camps

Tucked away in paradise

Tucked in behind a dune, sheltered under some milkwoods, or on the banks of a pristine estuary, these Wild Coast Beach Camps in Northern Pondoland offer the perfect friend and family getaway. They are a place to reflect, explore, and be reminded about what is truly important in life.