De Hoop Youth Camp 2026

This past weekend, the Bartosch Foundation headed off on a much-anticipated camp adventure to the breathtaking De Hoop Nature Reserve. A cold front rolled in and brought with it chilly weather and rainy skies, but nothing could dampen the excitement. If anything, it made the experience even more memorable – the kind of weekend where everyone huddles together, laughs louder, and makes the most of every moment.

We stayed at Potberg Eco Venue, a fantastic location for large school groups and camps. With spacious dorm-style accommodation and a comfortable communal setup, it was the perfect base for our weekend of learning, adventure, and fun.

After the children arrived on Friday afternoon straight after school, the camp kicked off with a warm welcome, a delicious burger night, and a classic movie evening featuring Leon Schuster. The laughter filled the venue as everyone relaxed into the weekend ahead. Once the movie ended, the kids settled into their dorms, excited for what the next day would bring.

Saturday morning began with an unforgettable highlight — meeting Xavier, our nature and marine guide. Xavier has a special gift for teaching children, and we are incredibly grateful for the way he brought the natural world to life for everyone. Under his guidance, we explored the rocky shores of De Hoop and went on a beautiful coastal hike that left everyone feeling inspired and curious. On our game drive, we were treated to sightings of eland, bontebok, ostriches, and even tortoises crossing the roads. There was something truly special about being out on those wide open gravel roads — the freedom of travel, the sense of adventure, and the excitement of discovering nature up close. For many of the children, this was a rare and valuable experience. I will never forget one child saying “look ahead, it looks like snow” – when spotting the white sand dunes in the distance.

The marine exploration was a whole world of wonder. We visited Hippo Pools, snorkelled, and carefully observed the tide pools teeming with life. One of the most fascinating discoveries was watching a starfish feeding, with its stomach extended outside its body as it digested a sea urchin — something the children could hardly believe. They were captivated by the strange and incredible ways marine animals survive. We learned about sea anemones, how they catch their prey, and why they feel sticky to the touch. We also discovered limpets, hermit crabs, flatworms, and a variety of other rocky shore creatures. Although we didn’t spot an octopus this time, the excitement of searching and learning made the experience unforgettable. Beyond the animals, the children also learned about what a nature reserve is, why conservation matters, and the types of jobs and opportunities that reserves can create. It was a powerful reminder of how important environmental education is — especially when children get to learn by seeing, touching, and experiencing nature first-hand.

After a full day of adventure, the children returned to Potberg and began preparing for the evening talent show. The energy was electric. Split into groups, they worked together to create performances that included dancing, acting, singing, and comedy.

That evening, the venue transformed into a stage of creativity and confidence. With fairy lights, glittering decorations, costumes, wigs, and makeup, the children truly went all out. Amapiano echoed through the hall as groups performed everything from church songs to hilarious skits — including one unforgettable robbery performance that had everyone laughing. The talent show was not only entertaining, but deeply moving. It was a reminder of the incredible confidence, teamwork, and talent these children carry within them when given the space to shine.

Sunday was filled with games, teamwork activities, and leadership challenges. We played relay races, soccer, and a variety of fun group competitions. One of the favourite games involved each team dipping a cloth into water, squeezing it into a bottle, and racing to see who could fill their bottle first — chaotic, hilarious, and wildly competitive!

We also held a joyful Easter egg hunt, which brought excitement to every corner of the venue. The baboons made a few surprise appearances throughout the weekend, adding to the wild charm of the camp experience. With prizes for the winners, cheering teams, and endless laughter, the Sunday activities brought the weekend to a perfect close.

This camp was only possible thanks to the generosity and support of so many people and organisations who came together to make it happen. A heartfelt thank you to Nomad Tours Africa for their incredible support and for providing such a special experience — the children absolutely loved travelling in the big overland truck.

We would also like to thank Pick n Pay Longbeach Mall and The Pop In Butchery Ocean View, as well as Table View Butchery. A special thank you goes to Galima for the generous chicken donation. Your support ensured that every child was well fed with warm, hearty meals throughout the weekend. We are deeply grateful to all the volunteers and helping hands who worked behind the scenes to make everything flow smoothly. This camp was a true collaborative effort, and every contribution helped create a safe, joyful and meaningful experience for the children.

At the Bartosch Foundation, we believe in creating opportunities that inspire confidence, encourage teamwork, and open young minds to the world beyond what they know. This camp reminded us once again how powerful nature, adventure, and community can be.