World Sauntering Day encourages people to slow down and appreciate their environment. So whether you enjoy sauntering in your own neighbourhood or wandering through a beautiful park or reserve, 19 June is the ideal day to slow down and enjoy your surroundings.
South Africa has many special places one can intentionally saunter. From beautiful gardens, and hiking trails to guided bush walks, there are ample options to choose from. Over the past few years Peet and I have been exploring the different slow walks our country and continent has to offer. Here are a few of our favourites that come to mind.
Slow days at GweGwe Beach Lodge
Staying at GweGwe Beach Lodge is one of the best ways for one to slow down. The lodge is nestled within the Mkambati Nature Reserve on South Africa’s Wild Coast. This secluded retreat offers a unique blend of luxury and nature. Set on a pristine beach the stunningly designed lodge’s main building and rooms offer breathtaking views of the ocean. The hiking, cycling, kayaking and marine walks invite you to connect with nature and yourself. It truly is the perfect spot for a slow saunter. More on our stay here.
Take a walk on the wine side through the Robertson Wine Valley
Probably one of the best ways to celebrate World Sauntering Day, if you are a winelover like me, is the Excelsior Wine Walk in the Robertson Wine Valley. This Wine Walk stretches over three days with participants hiking roughly 10km per day through the beautiful Robertson Wine Valley, stopping at 8 prominent wine estates. The historic Excelsior Manor serves as base camp treating saunterers to delicious breakfasts and dinners (with wine of course).
Do a Wilderness Trail in the Okavango Delta
There is no better way to explore the bush than on foot. Walking safaris offer the opportunity to immerse yourself in the bush and follow the rhythms of nature. And I can think of no better place to do that than in the Okavango Delta. The Okavango Delta lies in the north of Botswana where the Okavango River ’empties’ into the Kalahari desert. The 20,000 km² river delta not only is one of the seven natural wonders of Africa, but was also listed by UNESCO as the 1000th world heritage site in 2014.
Read all about our Wilderness Trail experience here.
Book a Bush walk
Sandringham Private Game Reserve is not only home to a breeding vulture colony but also some of pristine bushveld along the Timbavati river, making it the perfect place to spend time sauntering. The reserve is set to launch in August 2026. Why not celebrate World Sauntering Day by booking a stay and bush walk, at Sandringham for later this year.
Go on a leisurely stroll through your neighbourhood
It goes without saying that you don’t have to travel far to celebrate World Sauntering Day. Why not grab your favourite walking shoes and explore your or a nearby neighbourhood. Take a moment to pause, breathe deeply, and intentionally observe the world around you. Enjoy!
xxx
