After nearly two decades in the tourism industry, Rikus Barnard has launched something truly special: Maple Ranch Adventures just outside Plettenberg Bay. Over the years Rikus has built up experience, passion, and knowledge—and this new venture brings all of that together in one inspiring destination. Maple Ranch isn’t just a business; it’s a place where visitors can relax, explore, and reconnect with nature, fun, food, horses—and each other.
When you speak to Theo Adams he will not be able to resist telling you about: The little hamlet of Herold which is culturally and historically significant and is situated north of the Outeniqua mountains along the oldest, unalterred Montagu Pass, opened in 1847. The Herold Meander farm was situated at the cross road entry to the frontier roads – east leading to Uitenhage and north to Graaff-Reinet. Dutch ensign-bearer (“vaandrig”) Isaq Schrijver was sent on an official expedition in 1689 and recorded that the indigenous Khoikhoi named the local river “kaukou” meaning “thorn”.
Members Lara Mostert and Vijver Jonck are proud employees of Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary. A tourism activity with an eye on conservation. This 2-time winner of the Skål Sustainable Tourism Award for Major Tourist Attraction is a must see when on the Garden Route. Monkeyland is part of the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance.
Members Lara Mostert and Vijver Jonck are proud to be part of the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance. SAASA Sanctuaries have won the Skål Sustainable Tourism Award for Major Tourist Attraction in 2014, 2019 and 2023. SAASA Sanctuaries include Monkeyland, Birds of Eden, Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, The Hidden Forest Wildlife Sanctuary.
Members Lara Mostert and Vijver Jonck are proud to be part of The Hidden Forest Wildlife Sanctuary. This is the newest sanctuary in the South African Animal Sanctuary Alliance. This 2-time winner of the Skål Sustainable Tourism Award for Major Tourist Attraction is an up-and-coming activity on the Dolphin Coast.
Members Vijver Jonck and Lara Mostert are proud employees of Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary. The sanctuary is growing every day and now offers Night Time safari’s complete with a three-course dinner in a true South African Boma. When on the Garden Route Jukani is must do attraction if you like wildlife.
Members Vijver Jonck and Lara Mostert are proud employees of Birds of Eden. The world’s largest free flight bird aviary. Home to over 200 species and more than 3500 free flying birds. This 2-time winner of the Skål Sustainable Tourism Award for Major Tourist Attraction is a must see when on the Garden Route.
Member Elmay Bouwer is a name synonymous with tourism on the Garden Route. Elmay has mastered the art of making every visitor feel like a new friend. So pop on in at Blackwaters River Lodge for the golfing, the food, the kayaking or just for a lekker cup of coffee with Elmay in the garden.
Member Anthony Rosenbaum’s concept is to share a unique experience with his clients, exploring some incredible places, “walking” without pressure and stress and having fun. Anthony says it is not a hiking tour it is a walking experience that everyone can enjoy. Did you know Anthony summited Mount Kilimanjaro in 2000! Wow.
