Walks in North and South American, Europe, Australasian and Eastern countries all feature in the book.

The Oystercatcher Trail was one of only two South African products (the other was Cape Nature's Tierkloof Trail in the Gamkaberg Reserve) selected for inclusion. The ascent of Kilimanjaro and a visit to the Dogon tribes in Mali make up the total of four products on the African continent. They joined such prestigious icons as Peru's Inca Trail, China's Giant Panda Walk, India's Darjeeling Tea Trek and Scotland's West Highland Way.

Both leisurely walks (like a stroll around the picturesque canals of Amsterdam) and demanding hikes (like the Alpine Tour du Mont Blanc) have been included.

"The Oystercatcher Trail is one of Mossel Bay's major tourist attractions," said Mossel Bay Tourism's marketing manager, Debra-Lee Bouwer. "It was a pioneer in the concept of portered trails and is a leading force for conservation in the area.

"Walkers are accommodated in luxury guesthouses along the way and their baggage is transported by road while they stroll along the coast carrying only their day packs.

"The trail combines the two keys to unlocking an awareness of the need to protect our environment; close contact with the wonders of the earth and well-educated guides with a passion for their subject and an ability to get their message across."

This is the second time in less than a year that the Oystercatcher Trail has been singled out for special mention - as an integral part of the Splendours of the Cape itinerary created by tour operator Ker & Downey, it was recently chosen as one of the Top 50 Tours of a Lifetime by the international magazine National Geographic Traveller.

"Mossel Bay Tourism congratulates the Oystercatcher Trail and its founder, Fred Orban, on this well-deserved recognition," said Ms. Bouwer.