Flight departs from T5

Welcome to Johannesburg! You will be met at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board. Should your arrival aircraft be directed to the apron and not the terminal, you will be transported to the terminal by bus. As you step off the bus,  your Meet and Greet will be waiting for you with the paging board. Your Meet and Greet will then assist you through immigration, baggage collection and customs and will then ensure that you are
assisted to your onward flight to Hoedspruit, in the Kruger.

Welcome to the Kruger National Park; a wild yet protected area teeming with wildlife and birds, as large as Wales!

As you bump along the park roads, the sun warm upon your face and air dry in the back of your throat, your senses are on high alert.
This is the real Africa, cut away from the hectic pace of life, home to Africa's Big 5. The Kruger is alive, from the nervously twitching herd of impala after a night of predator action, to the wild dog cavorting like domestic pets alongside the road. Marvel as a herd of elephant simply appear from out the bush, then silently vanish back into the landscape.
With over 2 million hectares of pristine wilderness, the Kruger's biodiversity sustains numerous species of game and birds. The dry north consists of Baobab trees, scrubland and rocky outcroppings which can be seen for miles and animals tend to gather around water sources. As you come south, the park gets busier, animal numbers increase and the backdrop changes to grassland and acacia woodlands.
On the western borders, private reserves such as Sabi Sands and the Timbavati open onto the Kruger, offering an exclusive game experience with the flexibility of night drives and off-road 4 x 4 safaris. Swaying to the movement of an open vehicle while wrapped warmly against the night chills, is an unforgettable experience. The call of a Nightjar darting overhead and the flash of eyes reflected from the bushes brings an entirely different twist to your safari and as you drop your head back and look up – the crisp night skies go on forever.

Garonga Safari Camp fast facts
 In the Makalali Conservancy, overlooking a dry riverbed
 6 luxury tents with private decks & hammocks to appreciate the tranquillity
 An adventurous blend of cave & treehouse, airy & spacious to reflect the surroundings
 Beautiful views over the dry riverbed
 Bush baths, sleep-out experience & massage sala
 Home-from-home bush experience & unobtrusive service

Garonga Safari Camp is situated in the Makalali Conservancy, just west of the Kruger National Park. 6 luxury tents are fashioned using rough, natural materials, the warm hues balanced with bright spaciousness. The style is an adventurous mix of airy cave and tree-house. Each safari tent has a deck and comfortable hammocks, which are perfect for lazing in whilst looking out over the dry riverbed, a natural game path. Main areas include an open-plan lounge, dining rooms, bar and a shop. Ultimate relaxation can be experienced in the central pool, bush bath or during a massage treatment. Excellent cuisine paired with fine wines is served in a variety of locations,
including boma dining and summer picnics. Guests can also take advantage of Garonga’s exciting sleep-out experience.

Dulini River Lodge fast facts

• Idyllic riverbank setting with views over Sand River
• 6 suites which reflect the serenity of the surrounds
• Intimate boutique lodge of languid luxury & inspirational vistas
• Riverine grandeur, elemental tones & textures
• Personal, classic safari experience for a sophisticated individual

River Lodge, located in the western sector of the Sabi Sand Private Game Reserve is situated in lush riverine vegetation under a canopy of trees. 6 thatched suites are spaced along the river bank, their elegant design and natural colours blended with African flair.
Private wooden verandahs, plunge pools and outdoor showers overlook the Sand River. River Lodge's lounge and dining areas are open-sided and under thatch, with high ceilings and screed floors. Comfortably furnished and featuring extensive decks, the lodge is an appealing place to relax while appreciating the beauty of the setting. Meals are served under the African skies in the boma, where the sounds of the bush mingle with the laughter of the guests.

Private airport transfers to Skukuza and then again from Cape Town International Airport to Camps Bay

Welcome to Cape Town!

Scenically beautiful, Cape Town is a compelling mix of trendy modern and old-world elegance. Glamorous hotels, world-class dining and stunning vistas merge seamlessly with dynamic student suburbs and vibrant nightlife. Malay and African heritage is evident in the cuisine, traditions and entertainment while the architecture reveals a strong Dutch, German and English flavour and style. Contemporary art is proudly displayed in a variety of galleries and modern boutique hotels, and wine bars and brandy tasting lounges will appeal to the fashionable set. For the well-heeled the finest in opera, ballet, drama and music can be appreciated in style.
A short boat cruise to Robben Island, just over seven km's from Cape Town harbour, you can experience a sense of hopelessness inside the prison cell where South Africa's most beloved legend, Nelson Mandela spent 27 years hard labour. It is difficult to imagine how anyone could rise above the horror of incarceration to become arguably the most iconic and compassionate leader of our era.
An exciting trip up Table Mountain in a cable car provides panoramic views over the "Mother City" and other attractions include the
Cultural History Museum, the Castle of Good Hope and the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Greenmarket Square's
local crafts markets and the Bo-Kaap's colourful Cape Malay buildings add a sense of authenticity to your trip, and Long Street's vibrant
restaurants, bars and clubs come alive after dark. Perhaps wander around the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a working harbour and hub of entertainment and shopping opportunities.

Sea Five fast facts
 Boutique beach house in Camps Bay with sweeping mountain & sea views
 7 individual rooms & suites: a refined blend of designer style, tasteful décor & spaciousness
 Each has a private garden or terrace with stunning vistas
 Intimate, exclusive & luxurious with light, open-plan central areas
 An oasis of serene gardens & a sociable pool & bar

Sea Five is a luxury boutique hotel situated in Cape Town’s trendy Camps Bay. Aimed at the discerning traveller and capitalising on its stunning setting, the hotel enjoys sweeping mountain and ocean views. 7 beach-chic rooms, suites and penthouse are a blend of colour, tasteful décor and spaciousness and each has a private garden or terrace overlooking mountain or sea. Sea Five’s attention to detail and personal service ensures guests have an exclusive stay. Light and open-plan, the central areas spill out to a covered verandah which invites comfortable leisure hours spent in plush couches. Cool off in the pool, when not exploring this vibrant city and stroll down to the beach and promenade with its restaurants and shops

The tour commences with a tour of Table Mountain (weather permitting; cable car fee not included). Enjoy panoramic views over the Mother City and the Atlantic Seaboard with Robben Island in the distance lying sleepily in Table Bay harbour.  In the heart of the city enjoy for a short walk through the Company Gardens.  From squirrels to a variety of plant life, it’s just a happy place to soak up some ‘Cape Town vibes’ and enjoy the aviaries and fishponds.  On the Wale Street end of the garden you will find a monument which was created to commemorate the life and work of Desmond Tutu – lovingly referred to by South Africans as “The Arch” and a tribute to the
values of the South African Constitution.  Arch for Arch was installed beside historic St. George Cathedral aka “People’s Cathedral” for its role in the resistance against apartheid.  Step inside the Slave Lodge which explores the history of these unwilling immigrants and how they have contributed to the richness and diversity of South African history.  As you drive through the city you shall get a feel for the cultural melting pot that it is.  End the tour with a stop at Truth Café a ‘steampunk inspired’ artisan coffee shop serving all hand- roasted coffees in a vintage cast-iron drum (any meals for own account).  Return to your hotel upon completion of the tour.

Travel along the Atlantic Seaboard via Sea Point, Clifton and Camps Bay, to Hout Bay, a quaint village and fishing harbour with magnificent mountain views and beach. Continue via Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breath-taking coastal drives, to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point which is perceived to be the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Go on to historic Simon’s Town, a village with charming Victorian architecture, a naval base and a large penguin colony at the beautiful Boulders Beach. Boulders Penguin Colony is home to a growing colony of the vulnerable African Penguin. Wooden walkways allow visitors to view the penguins in their natural habitat and there is also a new information centre.

A lunch stop is made nearby (lunch to own account). End the day with a visit to the well-known Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens. The Garden includes five of South Africa’s six different biomes and is world-renowned for the beauty and diversity of the Cape Flora it displays as well as for the magnificence of its setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. The tour ends at ± 17:30 with drop-off at your hotel.

Welcome to the Cape Winelands!

An easy drive from Cape Town, the Winelands dramatic mountains stand guard over a quilt of working vineyards, elegant Cape Dutch estates and quaint towns boasting top restaurants, hotels and spas. Sample some of the regions award-winning wine offerings, stroll through exquisitely maintained gardens or explore art galleries and antique shops in the oak-lined streets of the local towns. The buzzing university village of Stellenbosch was named after the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel and, as the historic hub of the Winelands it is surrounded by around 200 wineries.
Franschhoek, a charming town with French Hugenot heritage is arguably the culinary headquarters of the country and home to the creative genius of a number of resident chefs. Framed by a majestic backdrop of the Helderberg Mountains, Paarl lies peacefully nestled amongst vineyards laden with the harvest finest offerings.
Enjoy gourmet meals lovingly prepared by experienced chefs and served in lush gardens, or stylish restaurants. Sample local wines and explore the cellars of well-established wine farms. The Winelands is all about stepping back from the hectic pace of modern living, and appreciating the finer things in life in some of the most gorgeous and tranquil locations this country has to offer.

Chapter House Boutique Hotel fast facts

• In the heart of idyllic Franschhoek, a recently renovated boutique hotel
• 9 attractive rooms: charming French farmhouse décor & historic appeal
• Showcasing local art, beautifully crafted furniture: a blend of design & creativity
• Exquisite garden setting: lavender, roses & trees

Intimate, attentive & personal

​Located in the heart of idyllic Franschhoek, is the recently renovated and historic, boutique hotel, Chapter House.  Established as a mission station in 1888, it later became the village school. Charming décor combines heritage design and creativity, showcasing local art and beautifully crafted furniture. 9 comfortably appointed rooms are spread out across three room categories (Classic, Deluxe and Superior Suites). En-suite bathrooms have showers (some also have baths). Depending on the room type there may be additional features such as private plunge pools, fireplaces, Jacuzzis, or courtyards. Central spaces include a lounge with high ceilings and a
striking fireplace, a bar and terrace overlooking the pool and a breakfast room to the one side. On sunny days, breakfast is served on the original veranda overlooking the beautifully manicured garden of lavender, roses and trees – one of the prettiest in the village.  A light all-day and evening dining menu is available.

Wine lovers are spoiled for choice in buzzy Stellenbosch and French-flavoured Franschhoek, with excellent wines and gourmet restaurants. You will be led by your wine guide on a fabulous day of tastings and pairings, that takes in superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads along two of the Cape’s famed wine routes.

Hands down, one of the most celebrated wine and food destinations in South Africa, the beautiful Franschhoek Valley, was established by French Huguenot refugees in 1688. Offering a captivating blend of European charm and spectacular verdant scenery, the town of Franschhoek is well worth a visit, with the main street dotted with exclusive boutiques, gourmet restaurants and art galleries. The Cape Dutch-style farms in the valley produce all the noble and classic cultivars – from superlative whites such as Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Semillon and Chenin Blanc, to intense Syrah, complex Pinot Noir and the famed Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines.  

The heart of the Cape winelands is the vibrant town of Stellenbosch, a wine lover’s paradise of bars and bistros. Grapes have been cultivated around Stellenbosch for more than 350 years, and the area is  recognized for producing South Africa’s finest reds and is best for those curious to try South African Pinotage and Chenin Blanc.
Let us know your preference in wine and cultivar, and we can create the perfect wine tour for you, completely flexible and adjusted to your needs.

Rental car will be delivered at 09.30; self driving from now on!

Welcome to the Overberg…!

Beyond the Hottentots-Holland Mountains, to the East of Cape Town, lies the Overberg, an area of fruit and grain farms, verdant wine-growing valleys and a coastal Riviera known for its charming towns and whale viewing. Swathes of colourful Cape Fynbos flowers, rocky shores and richly green vineyards are all part of the Overbergs essence.
During the calving season, Hermanus is arguably the best destination to view the Southern Right Humpback Whales. From June to December these migratory animals make their presence known in Walker Bay, with pods of up to 50 creatures frolicking close to land. Hermanus; resident Whale Crier sounds his kelp horn alerting the town to the proximity of these magnificent sea beasts.
Recently established, The Hemel en Aarde wine route extends back from Hermanus. This successful wine-growing region boasts highly-acclaimed Pinot Noirs cultivated from its vineyards and wine estates. Translated as Heaven on Earth; the valley lives up to its name, a feast for all the senses. Overberg highlights include Cape Agulhas, the southern-most tip of Africa and meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, as well as the Kogelberg Biosphere Reserve.

3 nights at 138 Marine Beachfront Guest House – 1 Periwinkle Room

138 Marine Beachfront Guest House fast facts

• Nestled along the coastline, boasting stunning sea vistas & a scenic mountain backdrop
• 6 airy & bright, individually styled rooms enjoy a contemporary classic ambiance
• An elegant guesthouse & double storey property offering a fresh, seaside welcome
• Stunning ocean views from lounge & terrace
• Beachfront setting, cliff path access & just 10 mins from whale-watching town of Hermanus

Shark cage diving!

After a safety briefing, you board your shark-chaser, the Predator II for the 5 mile voyage to Dyer Island. The island, together with Geyser Rock nearby, is home to 40 000 Cape Fur Seals, the Great White Shark’s favourite prey, and the channel which runs between the two is known as Shark Alley. This is where you will anchor – using a specially mixed chum to attract the sharks, you will soon have an opportunity to see them feeding at the surface, alongside the boat. The cage is then lowered and you will be able to witness these incredible hunters of the deep in your wetsuit, protected by galvanised steel mesh. All diving equipment is supplied and only snorkeling experience is required if you want to go down in the cage. A light lunch is served on the boat as well as refreshments and you will have the chance to see seals and whales in season as well as the sharks.

Return to land at around 15h00.

Self Drivers: The start time of your tour is subject to tide and boat launch times. You will be contacted the evening prior for your final tour commencement time, which could vary by as much as two hours.

Includes: Breakfast or lunch and refreshments on board.

Extras included: Conservation fee

Welcome to the Klein Karoo…

Away from the big city lights, the Klein Karoo is a region of semi-arid desert, imposing mountain passes and surprisingly beautiful oases. It’s about endless skies and natural wonders. Closer to the heart of the country, the Klein Karoos farming communities, quirky towns and wide open spaces are as appealing as the warm hospitality of its people. Towns such as Montagu, Calitzdorp, De Rust and Oudtshoorn offer home-style meals, local arts and crafts, and historical treasures.
Route 62, the longest wine route in the country, extends past eccentric little villages, farming communities and established fruit and wine producers. The route is an off-the-beaten-path glimpse of life in the more remote regions of the Cape, and its charm lies in its tranquillity and unpretentiousness. Striking mountain passes such as the Swartberg, Mitchell;s and Prince Alfred;s Pass cut through the region affording panoramic views from winding roads.
View the Cango Caves underground limestone caverns and dripstone formations as well as Oudtshoorn;s ostrich farms: Oudtshoorn,known as the Ostrich Capital of the world, has a large farming industry based on these birds. The endangered species breeding facility at Cango Wildlife Ranch lets you get up close and personal with hand-reared cheetahs. Community tours, a visit to the habituated meerkat colony and numerous activities and adventure sports are available in the region: biking, hiking, ballooning, micro-lights, caving
and abseiling.

1 night at Rosenhof Country House – 1 Luxury Room

Rosenhof Country House fast facts

• An oasis in the arid Karoo landscape of Oudtshoorn
• 12 stylish en-suite rooms offer country charm & all the comforts of home
• Quaint 1852 Victorian homestead with lovely mountain & garden views
• Authentic ambiance in beautifully restored house

Traditional meals & fine wines

Oudtshoorn’s 1852 Victorian homestead, Rosenhof Country House, is an oasis in the arid Karoo landscape. 12 stylish en-suite rooms offer country charm and all the comforts of home. Two free-standing suites have their own lounge, pool and patio with mountain views. Yellowwood beams and tasteful antique pieces add authenticity to this beautifully restored house and the pub, lounges and sunlit breakfast room offers spaces to relax. Soak up the traditional country ambiance and enjoy the delicious traditional meals and fine wines as well as the swimming pool, wellness centre and gym. From here, explore all Oudtshoorn has on offer.
Known for its ostrich farms and Cango Caves, Oudtshoorn also boasts scenic drives, hikes and bike trails.

Welcome to the Garden Route…!

Not a garden in the true sense of the word, the Garden Route is more in the way of a & Garden of Eden,an area of natural wilderness with endless expanses of untamed primal forest and pristine beaches. Imposing mountains line the roads and waterfalls cascade from dramatic cliffs into blue-green seas. Lush vegetated hills drop down to rocky coastlines and ravines shaped by thundering seas.
This majestic stretch boasts Storms River, the mouth of which is located within the Tsitsikamma National Park, and bustling resort towns are found dotted amidst the picturesque landscape. Plettenberg Bay is well regarded for its sandy beaches and Wilderness, its hospitality. The vibrant town of Knysna nestles on a massive lagoon, the entrance to which is guarded by the iconic Knysna Heads.
Numerous outdoors activities allow guests to explore the peaceful trails and country tracks which wind through towering trees and shaded glades, across sun-splashed shores and along ;barely-there; paths. Ocean and lagoon cruises, good wildlife sanctuaries and nature reserves add to the attraction of the Garden Route.

4 nights at The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa – 1 Luxury Room

The Turbine Boutique Hotel and Spa fast facts

• Boutique hotel on Knysna’s Thesen Island, surrounded by stretches of water
• 24 luxurious suites: individually decorated, spacious & with lovely views
• A converted power station: a funky, industrial-chic property
• Quirky central zones with bright colours & restored antiques

Spa, pool, bar & fine dining

The boutique Turbine is located on Knysna’s Thesen Island, surrounded by stretches of water. A converted power station, this is a funky, industrial-chic property, in a gorgeous waterfront setting. 24 suites are individually decorated and the spacious luxury rooms boast lovely views. Quirky central zones include a Tapas bar, island café and a pool deck. The hotel’s former structure is uniquely highlighted and mixed up with bright colours and restored antiques given a modern upgrade. Delicious meals are served in the stylish surrounds and the hotel’s spa offers a range of rejuvenating treatments for those needing a little down time. Take advantage of the water activities available in between exploring this vibrant town

Drop your rental car back to Port Elizabeth airport and begin the long journey home!

End of honeymoon; welcome home!