This popular itinerary includes the highlights of the Rainbow Nation - including a safari in Kruger Park and ending in fabulous Cape Town. This comprehensive tour highlights of South Africa, including the diamond mine that produced the “Great Star of Africa,” the spectacular Blyde River Canyon and God’s Window, Kruger National Park, a traditional African craft market in the Kingdom of Swaziland, Zulu cultural experience, Durban’s “Golden Mile,” the Tsitsikamma Forest, Knysna Lagoon, the Cango Caves, an ostrich farm experience and whales at Hermanus.
Your Itinerary:
Sun Day 1 Arrive Johannesburg, South Africa
Touch down at OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) where you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, exploring the magnificent suburban shopping malls or take an optional Soweto Tour (own account).Protea Wanderers Hotel or similar
Mon Day 2 Pretoria - Mpumalanga
Leave Johannesburg's distinctive skyline and head for Pretoria, South Africa's capital city. Marvel at this country's miraculous transformation while visiting the Voortrekker Monument, regarded as a shrine to the Afrikaner community. On to the world famous Premier Diamond Mines, which produced Africa's biggest diamond, the Cullinan, from which the 'Great Star of Africa' was cut to grace the scepter of the British Crown Jewels. After lunch we leave for Mpumalanga, dropping several hundred feet into the lush subtropical region of the Lowveld.
The Royal Hotel or similar (BLD)
Tue Day 3 Mpumalanga - Blyde River Canyon - Kruger National Park
Explore living history at Pilgrim's Rest, the old mining village where gold was first discovered, gasp at the glory of God's Window, a boundless view of mountains and fertile plains, and visit the spectacular Blyde River Canyon, one of the natural wonders of Africa. We arrive at our Kruger National Park Rest Camp in time for a welcome sundowner (own account) in the African bushveld. Kruger Rest Camp (BD)
Wed Day 4 Kruger National Park
Set off before breakfast in an open safari vehicle in search of lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard, and all manner of wondrous wildlife, birds and plant species. Savor the magic of this enormous wilderness.
Kruger Rest Camp (B)
Thu Day 5 Swaziland
Enjoy an enchanting drive to the tiny Kingdom of Swaziland, a former British Protection Territory, now ruled by King MsWati III. Witness a Swazi cultural experience before visiting the famous Ngwenya Glass Factory to see master craftsmen fashion collectable figures and functional art out of molten glass. We continue through the capital city, Mbabane, known for its vibrant markets packed with woven baskets, beadwork and carvings. Spend the night in the beautiful Ezulwini Valley. Lugogo Sun or similar (BLD)
Fri Day 6 Kingdom of the Zulus
Visit the Swazi Candle Factory, teeming with exquisite wax artworks in every shape and color imaginable. Then on into Zululand, passing traditional round huts and endless vistas. Arrive mid afternoon at the town of St Lucia, a World Heritage Site and home to hippo, crocodile and no less than 367 bird species. NOTE: You will have the option to purchase an afternoon open vehicle game drive into the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve.
Protea Hotel St. Lucia or similar (B)
Sat Day 7 Durban
This morning enjoy a cruise on Lake St Lucia before departing for Durban. Hug the lush KwaZulu-Natal coastline en route to Durban, watching the sugar cane fields do their own version of the Mexican wave at the urging of the wind. Check into your hotel just before lunch (own account). Explore the beachfront and its many attractions at leisure, or take an optional afternoon Durban City Tour (own account).Protea Hotel Edward or similar (B)
Sun Day 8 Port Elizabeth - Garden Route
Morning at leisure until your collection and transfer to the airport for your mid morning flight to Port Elizabeth (cost of flight not included). There you will be met by a new guide who will, upon everyone arriving, take you through the glorious, indigenous Tsitsikamma Forest, before reaching Knysna, perhaps South Africa's most visually stunning resort, in the heart of the famous Garden Route. Dinner and overnight in Knysna.
Knysna Log Inn or similar (BD)
Mon Day 9 Garden Route (Knysna)
Cruise on the vast Knysna Lagoon and visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve. Enjoy an amazing view of the imposing sandstone 'Heads' which guard the sea entrance to Knysna's huge tidal lagoon, and the forests, marshes and pristine beaches beyond. After lunch the remainder of the day at leisure, to enjoy this enchanting town.
Knysna Log Inn or similar or similar (BL)
Tue Day 10 Garden Route (Outeniqua Pass - Oudtshoorn)
This morning we enjoy the wonderful views of the spectacular Outeniqua Pass en route to Oudtshoorn, the 'feather capital of the world', so named because it is the centre of South Africa's ostrich industry. After lunch, we learn more about these hardy, enigmatic creatures during a tour of an ostrich farm. We then head underground for a fascinating tour of the Cango Caves, one of South Africa's most incredible natural wonders. Overnight in Oudtshoorn.
Queens Hotel or similar (BL)
Wed Day 11 Garden Route (Oudtshoorn to Cape Town)
A day of magnificent vistas. Enjoy the ever-changing passing canvas as we travel to Cape Town. During the whale season we will travel via the seaside village of Hermanus in the hopes of catching a glimpse of southern right whales, which frolic offshore (July to November only). Out of season we will return to Cape Town along 'Route 62', South Africa's version of America's 'Route 66'. Protea Hotel President or similar (B)
Thu Day 12 Cape Town (Cape Peninsula Tour)
A full day touring the ruggedly beautiful Cape Peninsula via the Atlantic seaboard. We stop at the fishing village of Hout Bay, where you can opt to take a cruise (own account) to Seal Island to watch the antics of these natural performers. Then we continue to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, before stopping off to see the lovable penguins at Boulders Beach. We drive through the quaint naval village of Simon's Town on our way back to Cape Town. Protea Hotel President or similar (B)
Fri Day 13 Cape Town (Winelands)
Journey into the beautiful and tranquil Cape Winelands, visiting both Paarl and Stellenbosch before stopping for wine tasting at two well known estates. A visit to the Huguenot Memorial Museum and the Afrikaans Language Monument provides a historical perspective. Protea Hotel President or similar (B)
Sat Day 14 Depart(or extend your trip to Victoria Falls – see below)
Check out of your hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home or extend your time with one of our extensions. (B)
VICTORIA FALLS EXTENSION (3 DAYS/2 NIGHTS)
We suggest you extend your Classic South Africa tour, to view the tumbling waters of the mighty Zambezi River – Victoria Falls – one of the seven natural wonders of the world. Any number of nights can be arranged for your stay. This extension can be added before or after any of our programs.
Fly into Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe and stay at either:
Ilala Lodge or The Victoria Falls Hotel or Victoria Safari Lodge
OR
Fly into Livingstone, Zambia and stay at either
The Zambezi Sun or The Royal Livingstone
Sat Day 1 Arrive Victoria Falls/Livingstone
Upon arrival at Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe) or Livingstone (Zambia) Airport, you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel. Late afternoon, depart on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Hotel Choice
Sun Day 2 Victoria Falls
Depart on a morning tour of the Victoria Falls, one of the 7 natural wonders of the world! The remainder of the day is at leisure for you to explore this exciting area. You could take an optional helicopter or flight over the falls, or shop for handcrafted goods at the market. The optional tours are many (on own account). NOTE: Please note that full day rafting, canoeing and elephant safaris should be pre-booked to assure space is available. We have a list of optional tours that we are able to pre-book. Consider going on an optional elephant back safari in the African bush or visit a local craft village, which depicts the scenes of traditional Africa life! Tonight, perhaps an African dance performance? Hotel Choice (B)
Mon Day 3 Victoria Falls - Depart
The morning is at leisure until your transfer to the airport for your onward arrangements. (B)
Victoria Falls Area Hotel Choices: (we have several additional hotels should you wish to explore other options)
Standard Properties (Ilala Lodge or The Zambezi Sun)
Deluxe Properties (The Victoria Falls Hotel, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge or The Royal Livingstone)
Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (Zimbabwe side) – The Victoria Falls Safari Lodge is set high on a plateau, which forms a natural boundary to the unfenced Zambezi National Park, and is just four kilometers from the majestic Victoria Falls. This deluxe 72-roomed African Lodge prides itself on hospitality and food rivaled only by uninterrupted views and magnificent sunsets. Created with a keen eye for detail; hardwoods, thatch, vibrant colors - the effect is awe-inspiring. Each bedroom has its own balcony, air-conditioning and modern bathroom. In the Buffalo Bar, Makuwa-Kuwa Restaurant and pool deck you will enjoy not only the wonderful views, but also excellent service from friendly Zimbabwean staff renowned for their warmth and understanding of the needs of international visitors. An on-site waterhole attracts a wide variety of game, including elephants, buffalo, impala and kudu.
The Zambezi Sun (Zambia side) - reflects the richness and diversity of the land's heritage and is located on the edge of the Eastern Cataract of the Victoria Falls. The architecture was inspired by the timeless African tradition, and its unique styling will offer visitors the experience of truly being at the heart of Africa. The hotel has the feel of a walled city, centuries old. It is comprised of open, organic buildings in earthy colors with rambling clusters of rooms, punctuated by chimneys and towers. The 212 guest rooms are low-slung, open and airy. Each one spills out onto a cool landscaped pool area, while the restaurant and bar are focused around the central pool. The two-story en-suite rooms have private balconies that welcome the morning sun. Outside, the earth colors are soothing and soft. Inside, the airy rooms are alive with ethnic reds, blues and oranges. Added amenities in the rooms include independent air-conditioning, satellite TV, foldout couches, safe and telephone. The central reception area houses a family-friendly, high quality buffet restaurant, a pool bar and a lively alfresco grill and entertainment area.
The Victoria Falls Hotel (Zimbabwe side) – came into its own in 1904 when the planned Cape to Cairo railway reached the Falls. The arrival of the railroad meant that the building of the Victoria Falls Hotel could begin - thus started an era that has charmed guests for nearly 100 years. Guests are assured of a genuinely warm welcome which, coupled with its old world charm, provides a memorable stay in what is undoubtedly one of the few remaining hotels of its kind in the world. The hotel has 10 suites, 96 standard rooms in the main building and 84 deluxe rooms in both the main building and in the new Stable Wing. The deluxe rooms are larger than the standard rooms and have a superior view or a special feature such as a separate shower. In general deluxe rooms have a mini bar, large flower arrangement, additional toiletries and a hairdryer. It is important to note that not all-deluxe rooms will have all these special features but they will have at least one. All the bedrooms have been refurbished to provide a perfect balance of modern amenities without losing the grand Edwardian architecture and pure graciousness. Set in acres of lush lawns and exotic flora, the hotel is only a few minutes walk from the center of Victoria Falls Village and a ten minute walk along the hotel's private path from the actual Falls.
The Royal Livingstone (Zambia side) - Set in the lush riverine belt and touching the banks of the great Zambezi River, this earthy Eden provides a secluded haven. On the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, this 5 star hotel brings a new level of luxury and sophistication to this world-famous region. It's an exceptional destination for the discerning traveler, with interiors that capture all the opulence of a bygone era. The bedrooms are two-story clusters. Each cluster comprises of 10 en-suite, air-conditioned rooms with private balconies and terraces that offer spectacular views of the great River and beyond. All rooms have satellite color television, telephone with wake-up call capabilities and voicemail, mini bar and mini safe. Twenty-four hour in-room dinning is available, and tea and coffee making facilities are located in each room. Each room also features a private, furnished balcony. The hotel is located 10 km from Livingstone International Airport in Zambia and 30 km from Victoria Falls International Airport in Zimbabwe.
Ilala Lodge (Zimbabwe side) - Ilala Lodge offers distinguished yet affordable accommodation in a gracious and secluded ambiance. The decor evokes a bygone era of adventure and the quest of discovery in Africa. The hotel is ideally situated and is the closest to the Victoria Falls as well as the town centre. The National Park borders the front of property and wild animals often graze on the hotel lawns with the spray of the falls in the background. There are 32 rooms - 24 twins, 8 doubles and 2 suites. All rooms have en suite bathroom with separate shower, air conditioning, overhead fan and satellite TV and are served early morning tea / coffee and fruit basket. The rooms are spacious with railway sleeper teak furnishings and patio doors leading onto either open lawn or a balcony where you are afforded a view of the spray of the falls from the upper level rooms. Dining in or out of doors at the hotel’s Palm Restaurant.
Notes:
Airfare is not included in the tour price.
Tour departs every Sunday from Johannesburg with a minimum of 2 people
Price Includes:
- Accommodations as detailed;
- Transportation as noted;
- Game drives as detailed in the itinerary;
- Transfers as indicated in the itinerary;
- Sightseeing/tours/entrance fees as detailed in the itinerary;
- Meals as noted (B-bkfst, L-lunch, D-dinner);
- Services of professional driver and guide.
Price does not include:
- Flights to/from Africa. Call Borton for a quote;
- Scheduled flight from Durban to Port Elizabeth;
- Gratuities;
- Items of personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, travel insurance etc.
- Optional tours;
- Fees for passport, visas, airport departure taxes.
Also see tour packages in:
Africa
South Africa
Swaziland
Nature & Wildlife
National Parks
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