HU Travellers Meeting South Africa 2014

HU Travellers Meeting South Africa 2014

THE PREMIER OVERLAND ADVENTURE TRAVEL EVENT

Horizons Unlimited Adventure Travellers Meeting

Thursday Nov 13 - Sunday Nov 16, 2014 - Elgro River Lodge

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It's All About Overland Adventure

Whether you're a seasoned veteran with wisdom to share or a complete novice hungry for ideas and guidance, it doesn't matter if you ride a motorcycle, a bicycle, or drive an expedition vehicle...

Horizons Unlimited meetings are for everyone who dreams of adventure along the road less travelled.

Horizons Unlimited South Africa Event Schedule

The event is taking place from Thursday, Nov 13 to Sunday, Nov 16, 2014.

The Registration Tent will open for check-ins at 13:00 on Thursday, Nov 13 with the first presentations beginning at 18:00. Last presentations will be Sunday morning.

There will be inspirational slide shows, practical demonstrations and tech clinics throughout the weekend, and lots of time for connecting with fellow travellers. Come early and make it a great weekend! We recommend riding on Thursday and Sunday, and participating in the presentations and clinics in the evenings, Friday and Saturday.

As well as hearing inspiring stories of overlanding adventure from around the world, you'll get the low-down on preparing for your journey, navigation, first-aid, photography, filming and a host of other essential topics.

Kobus and the team at Elgro River Lodge have also arranged game drives and river rafting on Friday and Saturday, so there will be something for everyone!

You can download the event schedule here, and a copy will be available at the event, but it is subject to change!

Presenters at HU South Africa 2014 included...

Workshops and Tech Sessions below

Lorraine Chittock.

Lorraine Chittock

Wild Life Woman - Lorraine uses motorcycles, Land Rovers, Jeeps or camels as she tours the world while publishing books about the animal/human bond.

Lorraine will take you through a tour of the project specific transport she's used — motorcycle, Land Rover, Jeep, camel — while working on the road to publish books about the animal/human bond.

She first hit the road solo on a Honda CB360 at the age of 18 - in 1978 when women on bikes were a rarity. It was during the twelve years living in Africa and the Middle East that she traveled from Sudan to Egypt along an ancient caravan route with 200 camels and eight Sudanese men.

Lorraine Chittock, 200 camels and 8 Sudanese men.

In 2003 Lorraine decided to take her career and two Kenyan ex-street dogs on the road. The pack of three began exploring North America in a Jeep Wrangler. Two years, 30,000 miles, and twenty-two states later, Lorraine transferred her belongings to an old Chevy van once used as a surveillance vehicle by the Arizona police department and headed to Latin America. Her cabin overlooking the Pacific Ocean in Chile is now a haven for travelers in the HU community.

Lorraine has been a presenter for the past five years at Overland Expo and was a speaker in January at India Bike Week in Goa. She is an advisor for the Ted Simon Foundation. This will be her third Horizons Unlimited Meet. After a month in Gorongosa National Park in Mozambique, she is ready to RIDE for the first time in years and is eager to explore South Africa. Anyone want to help Lorraine find a bike? Join her while stopping at animal rescues/sanctuaries en route to destination, UNKNOWN.

Alex Jackson.

Alex Jackson

AJ's Ride for Rhinos - 10,000kms solo around Southern Africa

Nov - December 2013 I rode my 990 adv from Cape Town to Namibia, Botswana and Zimbabwe solo. Whilst on the road I was blogging about the major problems facing Southern African wildlife with regards to Poaching. The presentation does not include any locations of animals but does tell my ride story along with the problems encountered along the way.

Alex Jackson.

Alex Jackson is an Englishman who has been riding around Southern Africa for the past 16 years. He's done numerous solo trips blogging about the beauty of SA.

Jo Rust.

Jolandie (Jo) Rust

Around Africa - Woman Alone!

Over 40 000 kilometers, through 28 countries around the African continent, on a motorcycle - woman alone! Share in the ups, downs, laughter and tears of Jo Rust, the first woman in history to have solo circumnavigated the African continent on a motorcycle!

Jo Rust in Egypt.

"My name is Jolandie Rust. Most people know me as Jo. I'm from Johannesburg, South Africa. My dream was to become the first gal to circumnavigate Africa solo.

The dream started out back in 2007 and I initially got around on a bicycle. I cycled through Israel, through and around South Africa in 2008 and became the first person to have cycled around South Africa in 2010, having covered 5951 kilometers in exactly 100 days!

In April 2011 I set out from Cape Town to start an epic journey of pedaling around the African continent, but four machete-wielding boys had other plans for me in Northern Angola. And as I stood there, next to the road, in the middle of nowhere, watching these guys take off with just about all my belongings, I just remember thinking to myself: "There has GOT to be a better way of doing this". Soon after (whilst walking back to the nearest town) I decided that I'd start over, buy this time on a motorbike. Best decision ever!

Jo Rust and friends in Nigeria.

In April 2012 I set out, again, from Cape Agulhas (southernmost point of Africa) on my BMW Dakar, and started making my way up the west coast of Africa, again. With a tad more speed this time round though."

Grant and Susan Johnson.

Grant and Susan Johnson, Horizons Unlimited

How it all began. The story of Grant and Susan's 11-year trip around the world, without a plan or a clue!

Way back in 1987, before the Internet, two young and naive Canadians set out from Vancouver to ride around the world on a motorcycle. The plan (and budget) was for 3 years, but it didn't quite work out that way!

Grant steers around a road hazard - aftermath of flooding on the Pan American Highway!

Paul & Jan Dwyer

Paul & Jan Dwyer, Australia - Globetrekkers

Road to Mustang - Cold, Rough & spectacular

Cairo to Cape Town - Mosques, deserts, beaches & elephants

Paul & Jan are an Australian Husband & Wife on a RTW. They will show two short films - riding to Mustang (Tibetan enclave in Nepal) and Egypt to South Africa.

Paul and Kan Dwyer in Africa.

Workshops and Educational Sessions

Because Horizons Unlimited meetings are also about informing, not just inspiring!

Jeff and Anneen Davies.

Jeff Davies

Film Making and Overlanding - An introduction to shooting, editing and delivering high quality video whiles on the road.

Have you ever thought about combining film with your overland trip. These days with GoPro cameras and DSLRs it's cheaper than ever to get your hands on professional equipment. Join Jeff and Anneen as they talk about the art of story telling. What equipment do you need to fit into your panniers and what can you leave behind? What skills do you need? How do you get your finished work out there and in front of an audience?

Let's shoot a movie

Jeff and Anneen are currently in the middle of pre-production on their first independent feature film that tries to marry documentary, fictional narrative and reality travelogue. Come find out what they're up to and what this has got to do with overlanding.

Anneen Davies.

Jeff: "I have completed a series of shorter overlanding trips in Southern Africa, Europe and Nepal. 2015 marks my first extended trip. I am a semi-professional film maker with experience in producing content for web and television. I'm currently gearing up for my first independent feature film for release in early 2016."

Grant Johnson showing tire changing.

Grant Johnson, Horizons Unlimited

Fix that flat! How to change a tyre anytime, anywhere!

Grant's tyre changing seminars are always well attended and appreciated. This seminar covers: how to prevent flats in the first place, and fix them when you get one; the best tools and how to use them for tube and tubeless tires; hands-on practical for beginners to experts, optional tyre changing contest.

Grant Johnson's audience for Tire Changing at HU California meeting.

Grant's tyre changing seminar at HU California meeting.

Lorraine Chittock.

Lorraine Chittock

'Dog Travel', 'the NO FEAR Fallacy' and 'Lace and Leather'

Dog Travel - How to overland in a vehicle or motorcycle with your best four-legged friend

Lorraine Chittock shared thousands of travel miles through eighteen countries on three continents with two Kenyan-born dogs in a Land Rover, Jeep and ex-police surveillance vehicle.

Dogs without Borders.

Based on her book Dogs Without Borders - Tales and Tips from the Road, information includes: crossing borders, dealing with heat, pet food availability, dangers in cities, (including poisons used to control the overpopulation of dogs) and other wisdom you might not need to know if simply flying into a country with Pup. For a FREE download of Dogs Without Borders, join 'Animal Travelers' on Facebook.

Lorraine Chittock and dogs.

The NO FEAR Fallacy - Learn how to deal with safety concerns, sometimes real, often imagined, and the naysayers who want you to fail.

Lace and Leather - For Women Only!

Once you leave home, traveling as a woman can be very different than travelling as a man. Learn the many benefits of traveling as a woman and the very few pitfalls.

Grant and Susan Johnson.

Grant and Susan Johnson, Horizons Unlimited

4 Easy Steps to Overland Travel! You can do it - we can help! Finding your way around Horizons Unlimited, other resources. Lots of great pics and video clips.

"Grant and Susan Johnson are icons in the round-the-world (RTW) motorcycling community. The Johnsons host - or more appropriately write, edit, produce, manage and coordinate Horizons Unlimited - a global network of motorcycle travelers... and a bona fide adventure motorcycling phenomenon." Dan Hilton, Rider Magazine

This seminar will be an overview of 'How To' travel overland topics. Includes content from the Achievable Dream series and great pics from HU Photo Contest winners!

Get Inspired on Horizons Unlimited.

Grant Johnson.

Grant Johnson, Horizons Unlimited

Bike mods and ergonomics!

Grant will host a bike 'Show and Tell' - bring your bike and show us your favorite travel mods. Critique and discussion.

When you picked up your new bike, did they take the time to make it fit you? You'll learn the amazing difference a properly setup bike makes to your riding fun.

Ergonomics demonstration at HU Canada West meeting.

Ergonomics demonstration at HU Canada West meeting.

Panel discussions at most HU events include...

Border crossings - How to get through borders with minimal stress and cost!

Packing light - Tips and techniques from experienced travellers to reduce weight and bulk.

Regional discussions - e.g. travelling in South America or Asia.

For Women Only - A must for the ladies, so be sure to plan on being there! A chance to talk to experienced travelling women without the men around!

Experienced Travellers Panel - ask the experts anything you want!

Walk arounds / Show and tell!

Tents and Bedding discussion (in the camping area) - What works, cheap vs dear and which ones keep you dry, warm and comfy!

Bike mods - Show off your best bike mods - homemade saddle bags, toolbox mounts, GPS mounts, seats, side stands, tank panniers, cup holders, etc.

Facilities for a Fantastic Four Days

Elgro River Lodge
Conference Centre & Game Lodge
Potchefstroom 2520
South Africa

Zebras at Elgro River Lodge.

Kobus Fourie of the Elgro River Lodge is our host for the first Horizons Unlimited South Africa meeting. The Elgro River Lodge is the true African experience situated on a bend of unexpected beauty on the Vaal River, 30 km from Potchefstroom.

The Lodge sits on the bank of the mighty Vaalriver and is on the Western side of the Vredefort Dome created some 2000 million years ago where a meteorite of about 10 km in diameter plunged to the earth and hit it with a velocity op 20km per second (+/- 72,000 km/h). The meteorite created a unique geological structure of unsurpassed beauty recognized as a World Heritage Site.

The Lodge has hosted many competitions as well as prestigious events including the National Archery Championships and the World Bowhunter Championships 2013.

Accommodation & Meals

Accommodation and meals are NOT included with your registration fee. The Lodge is offering a choice of 4 accommodation packages, some including meals. Or you may choose 'a la carte' accommodation and meals - prices below.

Contact Elgro River Lodge to book accommodation and meals (tell them you're with the Horizons Unlimited Adventure Travellers Meeting):

Tel: +27 (018) 297 5411 (ask for Elgro River Lodge Bookings)
E-mail: Wilna Hill - elgr...@iafrica.com
Website: http://www.elgroriverlodge.co.za

Accommodation Packages

Package 1 - R1860 (+-$175) includes:
  • Luxury Accommodation for 3 Nights
  • Full English Breakfast x 3
  • Full Buffet / Barbeque Dinner x 3
  • Game Drive
  • River Rafting
Package 2 - R1335 (+-$125) includes:
  • Camping for 3 Nights (Own Tent)
  • Full English Breakfast x 3
  • Full Buffet / Barbeque Dinner x 3
  • Game Drive
  • River Rafting
Package 3A - R300 (+-$28) includes:
  • Camping for 3 Nights (Own Tent)
  • Game Drive
  • River Rafting
Package 3B - R600 (+-$56) includes:
  • Shared rooms for 3 Nights
  • Game Drive
  • River Rafting

Accommodation 'a la carte'

The Lodge offers top class accommodation options to fit any budget:

Luxury Chalets (various available) - R275 per person sharing per night (+-$25)

The Lodge has 9 beautiful self-catering riverside units, fully equipped with access to a swimming pool and walking distance to the lapa & bar area ideal for a cocktail on the deck overlooking the beautiful Vaal River. Just imagine sipping sundowners with a gorgeous sunset right on your doorstep!

Elgro River Lodge deck.

Owl's Cottage & Annex Rooms - R185 per person sharing per night (+-$17)

Owl's Cottage boasts its own swimming pool and conference facility. The Owl's Cottage exist of 4 separate rooms, 2 bathrooms, 1 separate toilet, 1 kitchen with a stove and microwave and fully equipped with cutlery, plates and glasses, 1 living room and dining room, TV with DSTV satellite and a braai area.

Elgro River Lodge - Owl's Cottage. Elgro River Lodge - Owl's Cottage.

Elgro River Lodge Camping - R100 per person per night (+- $9)

Meals

Meals are NOT included with your registration fee but may be purchased as part of the Accommodation Package 1 or 2 above or 'a la carte', as follows.

Full Buffet Breakfast: R85 per person per meal (+-$7)

Lunch: R50-R100 Options to choose from (+-$4-$9)

Dinner: R175 per person (Full buffet / Lamb on Spit / Big Carvery) (+-$16)

Elgro River Lodge dining.

Activities at Elgro River Lodge

This is adventure paradise! Whether it is a game drive you're after, with more than 11 species of game, or an adrenaline rush down the river on a raft, this is the place to get all the action. All activities are guided by our qualified staff and we ensure you will have an experience of a lifetime!

During the Adventure Travellers Meeting, Elgro River Lodge will be providing Game Drives and River Rafting on Friday and Saturday at no extra charge. Why not stay on after the event and enjoy the facilities and other activities at the Lodge, including Bird watching, Mountain biking, Fly fishing and 3D Traditional Archery!

Game Drives - The Lodge is home to a great diversity of game, like Impala, Zebra, Eland, Waterbuck, Kudu, Giraffe and much more. The drives takes you through the spectacular mountains and up to view points with beauty that you can only imagine. Book and experience a magnificent African sunset. There is also a Mampoer tasting game drive available definitely an adventurous experience.

Wildlife at Elgro River Lodge. Rafting at Elgro River Lodge.

River Rafting - A rafting trip on the Vaal is definitely a big consideration to add to your overall experience. Trips differ in length and the river is suitable for children as well. Our experienced guides will take care of your safety and educate you on the ways of the water.

Bird Watching & Wildlife - Over 180 bird species have been identified on the Lodge, so take the binoculars and go for a stroll along the river bed or the established trails throughout the reserve.

Mountain Biking - This is part of our monthly guided activities and is ideal for the mountain bike enthusiast or for the more serious riders preparing for a race. Beautiful trails surrounded by wildlife and game.

Fly Fishing - Welcome to the best fly fishing water for yellows on the Vaal. We offer about 20 km of pristine fly fishing water for small and large mouth yellow fish. Take the stumble out of the Vaal and do one of our float & fly trips or you can enjoy the streams around the lodge and catch that elusive yellow. A basic Fly Fishing Shop is available at the lodge. Fly fishing trips can also be organized with experienced guides, these trips must however be booked in advance. For the last 15 years the Elgro River Lodge was the proud host of the Bell's Fly Fishing Festival.

3D Traditional Archery & Target Shooting - The Elgro River Lodge boasts one of the best 3D Archery courses in the country. With exceptional course layouts that change frequently. The Elgro Traditional Archers Club is based at the lodge and we host a club shoot every second and fourth weekend of the month.

Elgro River Lodge.



 

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