Mossel Bay Things to Do

There is a collection of plants that occur naturally in the Mossel Bay area and which were used by the Khoi, San, Coloured, Xhosa and European settlers for shelter, food and medicinal purposes. As well as for magic and superstitious beliefs.

The Braille trail makes it accessible to visually-impaired people so that they can read about, feel and smell the wonderful collection.

In 1500 Pedro de Ataide, Commander of one of Cabral’s ships, on his return journey from the east, left a letter of importance in a shoe or iron pot under or near a large tree.

In 1501 this letter was found by Joao da Nova, commander of the third East India fleet en route to India. In this way the first Post Office in South Africa was founded. The large tree, a Milkwood (Sideroxylon inerme) has been declared a national monument and is generally known as the Post Office Tree.

The local post office has organised a wonderful way of communicating with the loved ones back home. The post box at the Old Post Office Tree can be used to post postcards and letters. A special frank is used on all outgoing mail to commemorate the fact that South Africa’s first post office was this tree! The reason for the boot-shaped letterbox is that it is presumed that the first letters were left at this old tree from the 1500’s in a sailor’s boot!

The Dias Museum Complex is situated near the beach, shops, restaurants, banks and the tourist information centre.
Inside the Maritime Museum is a shop where postcards, stamps, books, souvenirs and small gifts can be bought.

A 65 mt jump at Gouritz.
This those who love the adrenalin rush should enjoy!
On the N2 Near Gouritz, you will see the board next to the N2.
Please note: you are not allowed to stop your car ON this bridge to watch people jumping, there is a place where you can pull off the road., those who don’t jump and prefer to watch can take with a picnic basket.
Please check the web site for more info.

This sanctuary offers exciting and thrilling experiences..
Live snake shows and a farmyard playground.
if you love wildlife then this place is a MUST SEE
Please check the included website for more details and pictures.

Private game Reserve, just off the N2 as you approach Little Brak river.
This is in the heart of the garden route.
There are guided game drives, more than 26 different animal species.
Elephant back rides, bush walks, horseback safari,
Helicopter flights. They also have over night accomm.

Horse riding, 4x4 routes, hiking, mountain biking,
Khoi san rock art, rock pools, Braai facility,
Historical ox wagon pass, beautiful natural fynbos!
Direction:Please note there are directions on the web page... and they do pick you up if you take bus to Mossel bay from Cape Town! just arrange before hand.

Over 40 species of wild animals, you can also view game in your own vehicle.
Self catering option for acomm.
Address: Matjiesdrift, Take Oudtshoorn road from Hartenbos, turn left at Matjiesdrift offramp, 1st farm on left.
Approx prices per car R200( 2 ppl) game drives R250pp as in April 2008