Clarens Road Trip
"Breathe in the Tranquil Beauty of the Free State Highlands"
Embark on a timeless adventure in and around Clarens ,designed to immerse you in the colourful landscapes of the Free State Highlands. Nestled between rolling hills, sandstone cliffs, and charming rural settings, Clarens is a haven for travelers and photographers alike, seeking to experience and capture diverse beauty. Whether you're a traveler or a photographer, our well frequented tour offers tranquility, beauty and for photographers artistic inspiration and technical guidance to expand your portfolio with breathtaking images. Enjoy numerous stops, including scenic landscapes and historical sites.
Clarens is a rewarding experience for everyone. Join us to explore the vast panoramas of the Free State Highlands, where every moment is a masterpiece waiting to be discovered.
R 9 150 sharing
R 12 900 single supplement
13-17 April 2025
5 days / 4 nights
Included
- Travel
- Bed / Breakfast
- All entrance fees
Excluded
- All beverages
- Lunches
- Dinners
- Any item not mentioned as included above
Travel
We offer comfortable travel in a 8-seater, air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a relaxed experience for all participants. This setup allows you to travel stress-free and enjoy time appreciating and capturing the breathtaking landscapes.
Accommodation
Enjoy truly comfortable and scenic accommodation located within the Clarens Golf Estate. This thoughtfully selected stay offers easy access to key scenic sites in the picturesque town of Clarens, ensuring both convenience and relaxation. With breathtaking mountain views, warm hospitality, and a tranquil atmosphere, this accommodation enhances your tour experience, providing the perfect retreat after a day of magnificent landscapes and vibrant scenery. Whether you're unwinding on the patio or gathering with fellow photographers, this inviting space promises a memorable stay.
Highlights
- Small Group Size - Maximum 8
- Expert Photography Guides
- Post-Processing Tutorials - if required
- Rapunzel’s Castle
- Angora Goats
- Astrophotography & Star Trails
- Scenic Landscapes
- Artsy Towns
- Mountains
Itinerary
Our Clarens Tour is carefully crafted to offer exceptional opportunities to capture the breathtaking beauty of the Free State Highlands. Each day is designed with everyone in mind, providing ample time to explore and shoot, with expert guidance, if required, at every location. While the itinerary offers a detailed plan, please note that adjustments may be made based on weather conditions or other factors to ensure you have the most rewarding and inspiring experience possible.
Day 1: Roadside Photography
Begin your adventure with a scenic drive from Johannesburg to Clarens, with photographic stops along the way to capture the beauty of the
countryside.
Fouriesburg
Golden Hour at Maluti Mountains
Wolf & Husky Centre
Day 2: Rapunzel’s Castle
Begin the day with a peaceful sunrise easy hike, ideal for landscape photography. Capture the golden light spilling over the surrounding mountains.
Rapunzel’s Castle
Astrophotography/Star Trails
Day 3: Mountain Trails
Start your day with a refreshing hike, where scenic trails reveal glorious mountain views and vibrant flora — perfect for landscape and macro photography.
Schaapplaats Farm
Day 4: Pierneef’s
Immerse yourself in the charm of Clarens, capturing its vibrant streets, historic architecture, and art scene.
Clarens Town
Sunset at Pierneef
Day 5: Golden Gate Highlands National Park
For your final day, explore the awe-inspiring landscapes of Golden Gate Highlands National Park, known for its towering sandstone cliffs and diverse wildlife.
Golden Gate Highlands National Park
Van Reenen Cemetery
Vulture Hide
What to Expect
The Clarens Tour provides a full and picturesque experience that blends adventure, learning, and the opportunity to capture striking images in the heart of the Free State Highlands. Here’s what you can look forward to:
Breathtaking Landscapes and Iconic Sights: Our Clarens Tour takes you through the Free State Highlands, known for its dramatic sandstone cliffs, rolling hills, and wide-open vistas. You'll have endless opportunities to capture the region's natural beauty, from the golden cliffs of Golden Gate National Park to the scenic valleys of Meiringskloof Nature Park. The diverse landscapes, including farmlands, mountain views, and historic sites, ensure a memorable and varied experience at every turn.
Practical Tips and Hands-On Photography Sessions: Throughout the tour, you'll receive expert guidance ensuring you improve your skills with every shot. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced photographer, we’ll work closely with you on mastering key techniques such as shooting in different lighting conditions and composing the perfect shot. Our small group size ensures personalized attention, so you can ask questions and get hands-on assistance with your camera settings and gear.
OPTIONAL - Post-Shoot Editing Tutorials Using Lightroom/Photoshop: After a day in the field, you have the option to gather for post-shoot editing sessions where you’ll learn how to enhance your images using Lightroom and Photoshop. These tutorials will cover everything from basic corrections like exposure and contrast adjustments to more advanced techniques like colour grading, sharpening, and noise reduction. You’ll walk away with polished, professional-grade photos that truly capture the beauty and essence of the Clarens.
Meet Your Expert Photographer
I am happiest with my camera in my hand sharing the world around us.
Life is truly worth living and I am humbled to have the opportunities to experience as much as I do. I plan our trips where happiness prevails and there is, always, something around the corner to smile at. If you have this inner urge to travel, but possibly, have not yet joined a small group, give me a call. We are often an all-girl trip, but not limited to!
I care - I share - and you have my promise of my undivided attention if you need it.
- Paula Rutherford
Cancellation Policy
We understand that emergencies can arise, and cancelling a trip can be stressful. Please review our cancellation policy below:
- Cancellation Window:
- Full Refund: Cancellations made at least 120 days before the start date.
- Partial Refund: Cancellations made between 61 and 119 days before the start date (50% refund)
- No Refund: Cancellations made 60 days or less prior to the start date will incur a 100% cancellation fee.
- Supplier Determination:
- Our cancellation policy is determined by our suppliers (flights, hotels, transport, etc.). If they can resell a booking, they may offer a refund, which we will pass on to you minus a small handling fee. Once a supplier has been paid, it is at their discretion whether to issue a refund. To ensure you can reclaim your payment in case of cancellation, we recommend purchasing travel insurance.
- Non-Refundable Fees:
- Booking fees, credit card processing fees, and deposits are non-refundable.
- No-Show Policy:
- No refunds or rescheduling for failure to attend without prior notice.
For detailed terms, conditions, and cancellations, please contact us.
Need More Information?
If you have any questions or need additional details about the Clarens Tour, we're here to help! Whether you're curious about the itinerary, accommodation, camera gear recommendations, or anything else related to the tour, don't hesitate to reach out.
Our team is happy to provide all the information you need to ensure you're fully prepared for this incredible photographic journey. Simply fill out the contact form, or get in touch with us directly via WhatsApp or email.
We look forward to assisting you and making your experience with us truly unforgettable.
FAQ
What camera gear should I bring for the Clarens Photographic Tour?
For optimal results, bring a DSLR or mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses. A versatile zoom lens (e.g., 24-70mm or 16-35mm) is ideal for capturing stunning landscapes and scenic vistas. If available, a wide-angle lens (e.g., 14-24mm) will be beneficial for expansive shots of the dramatic scenery. Be sure to pack spare batteries, memory cards, a tripod, and a lens cleaning kit. Additionally, a laptop or tablet with photo editing software is recommended for post-shoot editing sessions.
What is the weather like during the tour?
Clarens experiences moderate weather, making it ideal for photography. During the summer months (November to March), you can expect warm days with temperatures ranging from 20°C to 30°C, and occasional afternoon thunderstorms that create dramatic skies for landscape photography. In autumn (April to May), the temperatures cool to a comfortable 10°C to 25°C, with clear skies and golden hues in the landscape. Winter (June to August) brings colder mornings and evenings, with daytime temperatures between 5°C and 15°C, and the possibility of frost or snow on the mountain peaks, adding a unique element to your shots. Spring (September to October) is mild and fresh, with blossoming flowers and vibrant green landscapes, perfect for capturing nature’s renewal.
Pack layers to accommodate the changing temperatures, and prepare for some wet weather if visiting in summer.
How physically demanding is the tour?
The tour involves a moderate amount of walking. While the pace is relaxed, you should be comfortable with getting in and out of vehicles and spending extended periods outdoors. If you have any mobility issues or health concerns, please inform us prior to booking so we can make any necessary arrangements.
What if I need to cancel or reschedule my tour?
We understand that plans can change. Our cancellation and rescheduling policies are designed to be flexible and fair. Please refer to our cancellation policy. If you need to make changes, contact us as soon as possible, and we’ll do our best to assist you.
Will there be opportunities for non-photography activities during the tour?
While the primary focus of the tour is on photography, there may be additional activities such as guided nature walks or cultural experiences, depending on the schedule and local opportunities. These activities are designed to enhance your overall experience and provide a deeper connection to the region. If you have specific interests or requests, please let us know in advance, and we will do our best to include them in the itinerary.
What is the maximum group size for the tour?
To ensure a personalized and immersive experience, we limit the tour to a small group of participants. This allows for individual attention from our guides. The maximum group size is typically around 5-8 people, ensuring that everyone has ample space and opportunity to get the most out of their photographic journey.