Activities at the Retreat

early morning or late afternoon

Nature Drives

Climb into our open Safari Land Rover, affectionately nicknamed ‘Shrek’, with a knowledgeable guide to take you into the mountain bushveld for a close encounter with a variety of game, bird species and diverse plant life, including giraffe, zebra, kudu, blue wildebeest, warthog, mountain reedbuck and more. You may even get a lucky glimpse of the resident cape clawless otters!

Once you have explored the stunning surroundings, you can enjoy a sundowner accompanied by tales of the property’s history, and let the endless views and peaceful sounds of nature consume you.

a closer insight

Guided Bush Walks

Guided bush walks allow a closer insight into the wonders of the African bushveld, and are a great way to appreciate the smaller details of nature on the reserve. Follow termites and animal tracks, learn about the medicinal uses of the trees and shrubs and relish in the abundant bird life and other close animal encounters.

Learn how the ant-lion uses steep sandpits to trap its prey, study a dung beetle rolling their infamous balls, or learn how to fish for baboon spiders!

A knowledgeable guide will lead you along trails and animal paths through the open savannah past the watering holes and dams.

The ideal place for

Bird Watching

We have so far recorded over 265 different bird species on the property that will have you reaching for your binos and bird-book.

Our variety of different habitats on the reserve create homes for an array of colourful species.

Wander to South Dam to spot Fish Eagles, Herons and Kingfishers, see Purple-Crested Turaco’s flitting red through the gorge, or wander to North Dam to see the Dabchicks skate across the still waters. Ask for our bird list at reception, and see how many you can tick off during your stay

an amazing outdoor experience

Specialist Bird Walks with Ben Coley

For a more in-depth birding experience, enjoy a specialist bird walk with Ben Coley, a FGASA level 3 field guide, regional SKS bird guide and verified ‘bird nerd’!

Learn how to identify the multitude of species found on Tomjachu through sight and sound, and about their fascinating behaviours. Please book in advance, subject to availability.

unforgettable night sky safaris

Stargazing

Experience the ultimate connection with nature as you explore the heavens through a Night Sky Safari with Celestial Events SA. Learn about the Milky Way, constellations and their mythologies and enjoy unparalled views of various deep sky objects through our professional Meade GPS telescope!

Celestial Events SA is run by Ben Coley, a safari guide and guide trainer for 15 years. Ben is a member of the ASSA, a keen amateur astronomer and is the author of FGASA’s astronomy qualification. Subject to availability and weather.

a memorable experience

Hiking

With no dangerous game on the property, unspoiled mountains and clear open bushveld, you can walk freely amongst the stunning African wildlife and enjoy the true beauty and freedom of Tomjachu Bush retreat.

Set out on an extensive self-guided hike on any of our many trails and roads, or follow on of our designated routes varying from easy to challenging.

A tough climb to the top of our 1030m high Zebra Heights brings the regal Bekker Mountains to centre stage, as you revel in a birds-eye view of the property in all its glory; or walk across the game filled plains into the riverine trails of the Tipperary valley, uncovering an extraordinary ancient gorge with waterfalls and pools.

Should you wish to make a day of it, take one of our picnic packs and stop for lunch at any one of the beautiful sites on the property.

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beginners and intermediate

Biking Trails

We have some beautifully rugged self-guided biking trails with routes for a range of levels.

Our routes will take you through open savannah, mountain, and thick riverine bushveld that will surely get your adrenaline pumping! You can expect to encounter some of our giraffe, zebra, bushbuck, nyala, and other plains game along the way, and always spectacular scenery. While some of the routes may be challenging, riders are able to set their own pace.

Should you wish to make a day of it, take one of our picnic packs and stop for lunch at any one of the beautiful sites on the property.

Bring your own mountain bike and helmet, or simply hire one of ours (book in advance to avoid disappointment)

bass and bream dam

Fishing

Cast your line into the cool waters of our South Dam with only the splash of kingfishers to disturb the tranquility.

Symphony Dam and the larger South Dam contain a variety of wild bass, bream, and barbel, who take well to a variety of lures and even fly.

Simply cast your line and let time fly by while you drink in the magic of a Lowveld sunset over the water, as the Thick-Billed Weavers chatter noisily in the reeds and the antelope come to the water’s edge to join you for a sundowner drink.

For conservation reasons we operate a strict catch and release property, and only allow the use of barbless hooks.