We’ve never thought about hiking and camping with our family before.  Why it is so much fun? 

As well as learning lots of fun facts from your lead hiking guide about nature, there is the potential to spot wildlife – in Lubombo there are zebra, wildebeest, impala, kudu, bushbuck, giraffe, klipspringer, monkey and baboon hiding out in the bush.  For families with older children, it is often the challenge of completing the hike.  For those with little ones, it might be taking them an adventure and trying something new.  For all families, we notice it is doing something completely different from home life and spending time together.   Sigs, who hiked with us with her 3-year-old son recently, said that for her “It’s about sharing values that I can pass on.  I can teach my child how to enjoy nature.  I grew up with it.  It is an adventure.”

The children are young so it really possible to do a hiking and camping weekend trip?

We can tailor-make any hike by discussing the fitness and likes of your group so that the experience works for you.   Some are athletic and happy to carry little ones, but it’s not for everyone.   Camping is great fun for small children, especially if there are some marshmallows to cook on the campfire.  Sigs said “My son is 3.  He is young, so needs to be carried so take this into account on longer hikes.  But he does like it and it works if you take “petrol” (rewards!) as he can walk and enjoy it.  He really loves the camping – the fire, the evening under the stars and camping.  Chose the hike that suits your family, don’t choose something that is too strenuous as no-one enjoys it.  It is an adventure and if you don’t want any hassle then the slackpacking adventures with All Out Africa work well.”

We’re not all super-fit so won’t it be too difficult? 

Our advice is that you know your limitations and those of each member of your family.  It is possible to make a plan for different needs within a group, as long as we know in advance.  We have an experienced team and are happy to chat about your family and make a plan that suits you.

The great thing about our hiking and camping “Slackpacking” trips is that we tailor them to every family.  We understand that every family is different – single-parent families, blended families and extended families to name but a few, ensuring that our experiences are open to everyone. Contact us tours@alloutafrica.com to plan your next family adventure.

You may have heard the term slackpacking but aren’t sure what it means. It’s an adventure where you get to enjoy a hike, have the potential to spot wildlife and learn about the natural environment, but you are secure in the knowledge that when you reach camp everything will be done for you, from your tents to the fire and meals.  Slackpacking is like a luxury backpacking hiking experience!

Here are some of the advantages of slackpacking:

• Tents are put up for you so you can put your energies into the hike
• Tents are transported from each camp so you don’t have to carry your equipment
• Hike with a day pack as your bedding, change of clothing, spare shoes will go with the vehicle from camp to camp
• Meals are prepared for you – and we can cater for vegetarians and special dietary needs
• Camp is set up – arrive to a glowing campfire
• Water heaters are started at campsites in sites where hot showers are a possibility
• Disinfecting of eating spaces and showers is taken care of by our team

So why should you slackpack with All Out Africa Adventure Tours?

All Out Africa Adventure Tours are experienced operators of slackpacking trips in Eswatini and run them each year with small and large groups in Malolotja, Ngwempisi and Lubombo regions.  We have a team of knowledgeable hiking guides and camp management teams who have years of experience in setting up campsites, working with different clients and preparing meals in a camp set up.  Meet some of the team:

• Bob Motsa – Senior Tour Guide with over 15 years experience in the industry-leading a range of tours, driving vehicles and cooking for our clients including those on Slackpacking adventures!
• December Dladla – Tour Guide and Lead Hiking Guide in the Shewula Region who not only can share many interesting tales on your hike about nature and culture but can serve up a delicious meal too!
• Sikelela Maseko – Fleet and Camp Coordinator with years of experience setting up camps for clients and events including Slackpacking adventures in Lubombo, Malolotja and Ngwempisi.

Our guides are trained in safety and nature ensuring that we provide responsible hiking experiences.  We have the skills, experience and knowledge to be able to package a quality slackpacking experience for you, your friends and family.  If you are interested in slackpacking with us, please contact tours@alloutafrica.com and tell us more about your group interests and needs.

My last hike has to be my favourite so far. I recently hiked Sheba’s breast mountain and from a certain point, the mountain peak looks like a woman’s breast. The hiking trail starts at Lidwala Lodge, It took me about an hour to reach the top and about 45 minutes to go down.

I had a goal and the initial goal was to hike and plant my Wild Mango tree (Umbubuli in Siswati) at the base. The wild mango tree is also known by its scientific name, Mangifera indica, it is also home to monkeys, birds and bats.   

As I trailed up, my muscles were screaming for mercy and my toes rubbing in my hiking shoes, I sought for shade and I leaned against a rugged bark asking myself the question: is it worth it? Sometimes the pain we endure when hiking dissuade us but the rewards of hiking are too great.

Guess what!!! I made it to the top and I must say Sheba’s breast mountain has one the most of the beautiful views in the Kingdom of Eswatini. I think I was up there for a good 30 minutes until I hiked down to the mountain base to plant my tree, I just wanted to be fully immersed in the nature surrounding me.

When I finally reached the mountain base I planted the tree, it is incredible how vital trees are. As the biggest plants on the planet, they give us oxygen, store carbon, stabilize the soil and give life to the world’s wildlife. Next time you think about going on a hike or visit any eco-tourism business think about the environment and be responsible.

If you want to know about more about your favourite Eswatini based Eco-tourism and Conservation areas visit www.izele.org

Written by Simise Masilela, Marketing Assistant and Team Leader