Outeniqua Yellowwoods (Podocarpus falcatus) are among the largest and longest-living trees in Africa, known for their impressive stature and longevity.
The “Groot Boom” (which means “Big Tree” in Afrikaans) symbolizes resilience and endurance, having weathered numerous historical epochs, from the time of indigenous Khoisan and San peoples who first inhabited these lands, to the arrival of European settlers, and through South Africa’s complex modern history.
Stanley Grootboom, born in Coldstream, Tsitsikamma, is a passionate tour guide, artist and children’s author dedicated to celebrating Indigenous Khoisan culture and heritage. With decades of experience, he creates compelling art that reflects the rich history and traditions of the Khoisan people, offering a unique perspective that connects visitors to South Africa’s vibrant cultural landscape.
Spices such as pepper, cloves, cinnamon, and nutmeg were highly prized in Europe not only for culinary purposes but also for medicinal and preservative properties.
Portuguese explorers, driven by the desire to bypass the overland routes controlled by Middle Eastern and Italian merchants, sought direct sea routes to the East Indies. The discovery of the Cape of Good Hope by Bartolomeu Dias in 1488 marked a crucial breakthrough, allowing for the establishment of a maritime route around Africa to Asia.
With over 35 years of experience in the travel industry designing safaris across Africa, India, and Indonesia, Leanne Gammon is driven by her profound passion for South African heritage, food, and wine. Descending from five generations of South Africans, her family’s history includes tales of ancestors shipwrecked in Table Bay, Cape Town, and French Huguenots with deep roots in viticulture. Leanne has honed her culinary expertise through immersive cooking classes in India and Indonesia, experiences that fuel her dedication to sharing vibrant stories of spice, South African cuisine, and wine. Her commitment shines through engaging food pairings and wine tastings, where she illuminates the rich cultural tapestry of South African gastronomy.
The story of wine in South Africa is a tale of resilience, innovation, and the blending of diverse cultural influences. The creation of Pinotage, born from a serendipitous crossing of grape varieties, encapsulates the spirit of exploration and adaptation that defines South African winemaking.
Today, South Africa’s wine industry continues to evolve, offering a rich tapestry of wines that reflect both tradition and innovation, rooted in a history shaped by unique coincidences and cultural diversity.
With over 35 years of experience in the travel industry designing safaris across Africa, India, and Indonesia, Leanne Gammon is driven by her profound passion for South African heritage, food, and wine. Descending from five generations of South Africans, her family’s history includes tales of ancestors shipwrecked in Table Bay, Cape Town, and French Huguenots with deep roots in viticulture. Leanne has honed her culinary expertise through immersive cooking classes in India and Indonesia, experiences that fuel her dedication to sharing vibrant stories of spice, South African cuisine, and wine. Her commitment shines through engaging food pairings and wine tastings, where she illuminates the rich cultural tapestry of South African gastronomy.
We offer a talk on the “Life of Livingstone”. History cannot be changed. We need to re-acquaint ourselves with significant facets of history that altered our perceptions and fundamentally influenced the way we think. History is littered with huge personalities, saints and sinners who, in one way or another, have influenced us on the way we live today. One man stands head and shoulders above those historical personalities. His name is Dr. David Livingstone. This presentation includes a binding journey into Africa’s past as we bring to life the most compelling story in Africa’s history – The Life of David Livingstone.
Born into poverty in a Glasgow slum in 1813 he would rise up to become “the greatest man of his generation” and during a career which spanned 30 years in Africa, he would traverse over 28000 miles of uncharted territory. This story is inspirational and will give you a fascinating insight into Africa’s, often time, tragic past but it will also keep you on the very edge of your seat as we follow our hero through trials and tribulations no ordinary man could endure.
As the son of a British South Africa Police Officer, Chris grew up in some of the most remote parts of rural Zimbabwe, and it’s little surprise he became fascinated with the wildlife on his doorstep. He joined the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management in 1980 and worked his way up to Senior Ranger, in charge of Zambezi National Park near Victoria Falls. In search of a fresh challenge he left National Parks in 1987 and spent time in Zambia guiding photographic safaris before returning to Zimbabwe to set up his own company operating private walking safaris, in Matusidona National Park. As a Private Guide, he has built up an enviable reputation conducting trips as far a field as the the Congo, Rwanda, Uganda and Gabon, and still makes regular trips to Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and Malawi. He is an accomplished wildlife photographer, a keen Ornithologist and has always had a passionate interest in Africa’s history, in particular the adventures and journeys of the early explorers. Chris’s rendition of Livingstone’s story is greatly enhanced by having met some of the direct descendants of Livingstone’s original traveling companions, and this personal connection adds an element of drama that never fails to draw his audience in. He is based in Victoria Falls and in-between planning specialist journeys and guiding interested parties he, still finds time to share the story of David Livingstone with audiences passing through that part of the world. He is an engaging and polished raconteur with a rye sense of humor and we are privileged to have him as a member of our team.
In 1886 the richest goldfield ever discovered in the history of the world was found in an area called Witwatersrand just outside of Pretoria. There, on the bleak high veld a mining camp sprung up that would become the beating economic heart of the nation that was to become South Africa. The figures are staggering, of all the gold mined by humans since the beginning of time, 30% has come out of the ground under Johannesburg, today 50% of the worlds known gold reserves lie beneath the city- if there were ever a city where the streets were paved with gold– Johannesburg is that city! This is the story of that discovery- the prospectors, miners, traders, farmers, politicians, financiers, gamblers and thieves who played their part in this grand pageant and how these momentous events forged the destiny of the country that has become South Africa.
Sue is a fourth generation South African, born and bred in Johannesburg, the “city of gold”. She grew up during the ‘second Gold Rush’ of the ‘60s and ‘70s as Johannesburg boomed again with new discoveries of gold in the Free State and uranium to the north-west of Johannesburg. A journalist by training, Sue has always been passionate about the history of South Africa as well as the conservation of Africa’s endangered species. In addition to other conservation projects, she worked with the Jane Goodall Institute to establish Chimp Eden, a sanctuary in South Africa for the protection and rehabilitation of chimpanzees rescued from captivity in the rest of Africa. Sue remains the quintessential “Joburger”- deeply in love with the energy of her city and passionate about sharing its extraordinary story, from brawling mining camp to the modern city that is the beating financial heart of a nation. She shares this compelling story with visitors to her town with an infectious enthusiasm that leaves her audiences with a deep appreciation of the powerful forces that have shaped South Africa and, to this day, continue to influence the fate of the nation.
Robyn Anderson was born in Cape Town but has lived in Johannesburg for over 30 years. She can trace her ancestry back to 1728 when German born Gottfried Heydenreich, a shoemaker and mercenary, arrived and settled at the Cape. She gets her love of history and storytelling from her grandfather who was a lighthouse keeper at Robben Island, albeit it before Nelson Mandela became the island’s most famous resident. He grew up on the streets of Cape Town in the early 1900’s and spent much time on his uncle’s whaling boats. As a young child Robyn spent many hours listening to his fascinating and colourful stories of mischief and mayhem – by all accounts he was a hooligan!
Robyn is a calligraphy teacher and lettering artist and has a passion for preserving and sharing the rich history of South Africa. She co-owns a guest house in Johannesburg and spends much of her time enthralling international guests with stories of South Africa, both past and present.
Lucille is a passionate storyteller, experienced journalist, and dedicated tour guide who brings South Africa’s history to life with her deep knowledge and captivating narratives. Lucille has worked as a tour guide for 7 years, before that she was a journalist, working for 6 years on documenting Johannesburg’s rich past and cultural heritage. Lucille seamlessly blends research, historical records, and personal anecdotes to create immersive storytelling experiences.
Lucille is not only a guide but also a passionate advocate for heritage preservation. Her extensive research and writings have contributed to raising awareness about Johannesburg’s historical sites, forgotten neighborhoods, and the people who made history there. She believes that storytelling is a powerful tool to keep history alive, ensuring that future generations can appreciate and learn from the past.
Step back in time and immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of the Khoisan people with Stanley Grootboom’s unique Khoisan Heritage Tour in the heart of Tsitsikamma. This unforgettable experience offers a deep dive into the ancient traditions, art, and knowledge passed down through generations of the Khoisan community.
The tour begins with a visit to the b 1,000-year-old Yellowwood Tree in Tsitsikamma, also known as “The Big Tree,” is an ancient giant of the Afro-montane forests, standing over 36 meters tall with a trunk circumference of nearly 9 meters. This majestic tree, a symbol of South Africa’s natural heritage, has witnessed centuries of change, from the early presence of the Khoisan people to modern conservation efforts. The Khoisan, the region’s original inhabitants, revered nature and lived harmoniously with the land. Their connection to the forest and its resources was deeply spiritual, reflecting their respect for the environment that sustained them. The Big Tree would have been a silent witness to their way of life and their sustainable practices, marking a time when the forest was a sanctuary for both people and wildlife.
Transfer to the Khoisan Village where you will experience a traditional Khoisan meal prepared with indigenous ingredients that showcase the rich flavors of the region. Guests are invited to enjoy an authentic culinary experience, seated in nature, surrounded by the beauty of Tsitsikamma’s ancient forests.
As the sun sets, feel the rhythm of Khoisan culture come alive through traditional dance and drumming performances. The powerful beats of the drums, combined with the graceful movements of the dancers, tell stories of the Khoisan people’s deep connection to the land, animals, and their ancestors.
Stanley Groot Boom, a knowledgeable guide with deep roots in the Khoisan culture, leads guests on a tour of Tsitsikamma’s indigenous plant life. Learn about the medicinal properties of these plants, used for centuries by the Khoisan for healing and spiritual practices. This portion of the tour is a fascinating journey into ancient natural remedies and sustainable living.
The tour also features replicas of ancient Khoisan rock art, offering guests an opportunity to learn about the symbolic meaning behind these timeless creations. The rock art is not only a form of storytelling but also a window into the spiritual life of the Khoisan people.
One of the highlights of the tour is the live San drawing and painting demonstration. Watch as Stanley Groot Boom showcases the techniques used by the Khoisan to create their famous rock art. With expert hands, he brings to life the symbols and stories that reflect the daily lives, hunting practices, and spiritual beliefs of the San people.
This tour is more than an educational experience; it’s an opportunity to connect with the living legacy of the Khoisan people and gain insight into one of the world’s oldest cultures.
Stanley Grootboom, born in Coldstream, Tsitsikamma, is a passionate tour guide, artist and children’s author dedicated to celebrating Indigenous Khoisan culture and heritage. With decades of experience, he creates compelling art that reflects the rich history and traditions of the Khoisan people, offering a unique perspective that connects visitors to South Africa’s vibrant cultural landscape.
We offer a “Mists of time” tour which is the David Livingstone story, followed by a private tour of the Victoria Falls. This activity lasts approximately 3 hours (1hour talk, 2 hours Tour of Victoria Falls). The privately guided tour of the Victoria Falls allows you to see the mighty Victoria Falls, or known by the locals as the “Mosi-Oa-Tunya” (the smoke that thunders). You will experience the sight of the falls the same way Dr.David Livingstone did on that 16th Day of November 1855, over 166 years ago!
This tour begins with the story of the Victorian Missionary and Explorer David Livingstone. Explore not only the greatest waterfall on earth, but its place in history from the earliest residents to the first European Visitor, the building of the bridge and the many colourful characters that passed this way in time. This is a fascinating slice of Africa’s story that will leave you with a deeper understanding of the continents, Past, Present and Future set against the backdrop of the one of the seven natural wonders of the world.
It includes bus hire and entrance fee to the falls and bottled water and raincoat. Pick up and drop off is at the group’s relevant hotel or lodge.
As the son of a British South Africa Police Officer, Chris grew up in some of the most remote parts of rural Zimbabwe, and it’s little surprise he became fascinated with the wildlife on his doorstep. He joined the Department of National Parks and Wildlife Management in 1980 and worked his way up to Senior Ranger, in charge of Zambezi National Park near Victoria Falls. In search of a fresh challenge he left National Parks in 1987 and spent time in Zambia guiding photographic safaris before returning to Zimbabwe to set up his own company operating private walking safaris, in Matusidona National Park. As a Private Guide, he has built up an enviable reputation conducting trips as far a field as the the Congo, Rwanda, Uganda and Gabon, and still makes regular trips to Zambia, Botswana, Namibia and Malawi. He is an accomplished wildlife photographer, a keen Ornithologist and has always had a passionate interest in Africa’s history, in particular the adventures and journeys of the early explorers. Chris’s rendition of Livingstone’s story is greatly enhanced by having met some of the direct descendants of Livingstone’s original traveling companions, and this personal connection adds an element of drama that never fails to draw his audience in. He is based in Victoria Falls and in-between planning specialist journeys and guiding interested parties he, still finds time to share the story of David Livingstone with audiences passing through that part of the world. He is an engaging and polished raconteur with a rye sense of humor and we are privileged to have him as a member of our team.
