My story
"Hardekole" is more than just the Afrikaans term for hard, easily burning coal in a campfire. It's a way of life: sitting around the fire with friends in the evening, talking about the day's events, laughing, playing guitar. Gazing into the flames , surrounded by pristine nature. Living only in the moment and forgetting the stresses of everyday life.
You should experience this feeling on our tours. Whether in a cozy lodge enjoying dinner in the bouma, under the starry sky during a night watch, or at a vineyard by the fireplace – the relaxing crackling of the fire will always be with you.
Andrea
My story – From the bank towers to the wilderness
Almost ten years ago, a single trip changed me forever.
A sunset over the African savannah, the soft crackling of the campfire, the calls of hyenas in the distance – and that feeling of freedom that resonated deep within me.
Back then I lived a completely different life: As a management consultant in Frankfurt's bank towers, my daily routine was dominated by appointments, performance pressure, and the same constant view of glass facades. I appeared successful on the outside, but something crucial was missing inside.
It was only in South Africa – between red dust roads, ancient baobabs and the large herds of elephants – that I realized what I had ignored for years: I wanted a life that truly belonged to me.
A life with nature, genuine encounters and adventures that you can feel – not just hear about.
The decision was made on one of those nights by the fire, surrounded by friends, with the African starry sky above us:
I'm leaving my old life behind.
I'm starting over – here, where my heart says home.
Today I am living this dream: working with people who want to discover exactly this Africa.
To show them what moved me so deeply back then: A world that is bigger than any everyday life.
“Africa is not a place you visit – it’s a place that stays within you.”
I'm excited to share this feeling with you. Welcome to Hardekole Tours – where adventure, nature, and heart come together.
