Discover the best of North and Southern parts of South Africa and experience what these regions have to offer. Highlights include Kruger National Park, Durban and surrounds and Cape Town.
Day 1 - Johannesburg You will be met at the airport in Johannesburg by your guide and head straight for Africa Sky Guest House. Should your flight arrive early morning, you will have the day at leisure in Johannesburg. You have the following 3 options to choose from.
Option 1: Spend the day resting and relaxing at Africa Sky Guest House.
Option 2: Lesedi Cultural Village You will be collected at 09h30. Experience true African culture. You are taken to the Ndebele village where the program begins with a presentation on the history of today’s rainbow nation. This is followed by a tour of the Pedi, Sotho, Xhosa, Zulu and Ndebele homesteads. Guests are then escorted to the boma for traditional singing and dancing - a very participative affair! R950-00 pp (lunch included)
Option 3:Soweto Tour: You will be collected at 08h30. This tour introduces you to Soweto (South Western Township) situated on the outskirts of Johannesburg. Soweto offers you a glimpse into the turbulent past of South Africa - hostels, Freedom Square, the struggle for liberty. The tour includes a full view of Soweto from Baragawanath Hospital (the largest hospital in the world), visits to African merchants of traditional medicines, a typical four-roomed dwelling and informal settlement. R700-00 pp (lunch included)
A table has been booked at Africa Sky’s Restaurant for 19h00, where you will join your guide and fellow travellers.
Options for today must be selected at time of booking
Day 2 - Panorama Route We enjoy breakfast before setting off for the Panorama Route, best known for its cultural heritage and dramatic landscapes. We reach the small forestry town of Graskop, perched on the edge of the Drakensberg escarpment. Visit viewpoints along the edge of the escarpment, including God’s Window, Lisbon Falls and the Pinnacle. The afternoon is at leisure, allowing you time to stroll through some of the many unique and interesting shops – including an elephant dung paper shop and a shop specializing in silk from the African Mopane worm!
Day 33 - Kruger National Park Continue exploring the Panorama Route. Our first stop is Bourke’s Luck Potholes, a remarkable record of an erosion process that started thousands of years ago. We also view the Blyde River Canyon, the third deepest and only green canyon in the world. Continue on to the world-renowned Kruger National Park. This park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa and the world and is unrivalled in the diversity of its life forms. While we are in the park you will enjoy at least 2 three hour game drives per day. A typical day is up at 05h30 for a game drive until brunch (normally around 10h30). After brunch relax in camp. The afternoon drive normally begins at about 15h00, and continues until 18h00 when we return to camp for supper. You also have the option of joining the park rangers in their open safari vehicles for a night drive (R210-00 pp) or going on a Morning Bush Walk, accompanied by a park ranger (R400-00 pp).
Day 4 & 5 - Kruger National Park Continue exploring the vastness and diversity of Kruger Park with a morning and afternoon game drive.
Day 6 - Pongola Travel through Swaziland to Pongola Private Game Reserve, surrounded by bushveld savannah and the Lebombo mountains. In the afternoon enjoy a game cruise on Pongola dam (a great way to see animals as they come to drink).
Day 7 - Pongola You have a choice of either an early morning game drive in an open safari vehicle, or going Rhino tracking (join your ranger on a game walk and track these prehistoric beasts on foot). The rest of the day is at leisure. Pongola Game Reserve has a Spa where you can pamper yourself, or you may want to try your hand at Tiger Fishing!
Day 8 - St Lucia We enter The Greater St Lucia Wetland Park World Heritage Site. Here we embark on a Hippo & Crocodile Estuary Cruise, a leisurely boat trip down the St Lucia Estuary, where you can watch fish eagles, hippos, crocodiles and goliath herons against a backdrop of mangrove swamps.
Day 9 - St Lucia St Lucia lies on The Elephant Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. Elephants, Rhino and Lion, Whales, Turtles and Marlin, Warm Indian Ocean, Pristine Beaches, Sub-Tropical Climate are some of the terms associated with this area… Today you have the option to book some of the activities below.
Option 1 (morning): Whale Watching Early morning departure. 2 Hours at sea with a specialized Marine Mammal Guide. See Humpback whales from as close as 50m's! Seasonal: June, July, August, September, October, November only *R300 Cash refund if you have not seen a whale after 2 hours on the ocean R930-00 pp
Option 2 (morning): Ocean Adventure Early morning departure. 2 Hours at sea. Experience the thrill of surf launching with the possibility of seeing turtles, sharks, dolphins, pelagic sea birds & flying fish.Year Round. R530-00 pp
Option 3 (full day): Deep Sea Fishing: Departs at 06h00. A full day of game, bill and bottom fishing. All bait and tackle supplied. Year Round R770-00 pp
Option 4 (full day): Hluhluwe/Imfolozi Game Reserve Departs at 05h00. A full day of game viewing the Big 5 in the oldest Game Reserves in Africa. Includes a full lunch ,tea/coffee/juice & rusks at breakfast time, soft drinks throughout the day, entrance fees and a qualified guide. Year Round R1 020-00 pp
Option 5 (full day): Cape Vidal Snorkel Safari Departs at 08h00. A full day of guiding and driving within the Eastern Shores. Stop to snorkel and have lunch at one of the most beautiful beaches on the North Coast - view points en route - walking trails etc. Includes tea/coffee & rusks at breakfast time, soft drinks throughout the day, a full lunch, snorkel equipment, a qualified guide, gate entry fees.Year Round R660-00 pp
Option 6 (evening):NIight Drive Departs at 20h00. 3 Hours within the Eastern Shores to view nocturnal animals with a qualified guide.Year Round R400-00 pp
Option 7 (evening):Turtle Tour Departs at 21h00. Depart St Lucia and spend the next 6 hours over midnight to search for turtles that come out to nest. Includes a picnic dinner at Cape Vidal close to midnight and refreshments.Seasonal: November, December, January, February, March only R935-00 pp
Option 8 (afternoon): Khula Cultural Tour 3 Hours to enjoy the Zulu Culture and way of life within the Cultural Village 3km's outside of St Lucia. Year Round R265-00 pp
Option 9 (afternoon): Horse Riding Enjoy the beach on horseback, or a Game Ride within the Eastern Shores to see species of wildlife, accompanied by a qualified guide and rider Year Round 1 Hour: R250-00 pp 2 Hour: R500-00 pp Beach Ride subject to tides
Day 10 - Durban After breakfast we continue down the coast to Umdloti, where we book into Fairlight Beach House.
The rest of the afternoon is spent at leisure. Umdloti’s beach is regarded as one of South Africa’s best kept secrets and Fairlight is right on the finest bathing and surfing beach in the area. Enjoy the warmth of the Indian Ocean or just relax and do some dolphin and whale spotting from the Fairlight’s expansive deck overlooking the ocean.
Day 11 - Cape Town - Table Mountain & Robben Island After breakfast, take an early flight to Cape Town. First stop is Table Mountain, the world famous landmark. Join the ranks of millions of visitors who have reached the summit and marvelled at the views from such lofty heights. We then head to the V&A Waterfront, where we take a ferry to Robben Island. Robben Island has been a penal colony for most of its 400 year history. Nelson Mandela spent 18 years on Robben Island and many of the leading members of South African political parties were incarcerated alongside him. In 1997 Robben Island was turned into a museum and declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Return to the V&A Waterfront. Situated in the heart of Cape Town's working harbour, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront has become South Africa's most visited destination. Set against a backdrop of sea and mountain views, exciting shopping and entertainment venues are intermingled. This is an experience of how the Capetonians live, work, shop and play!
Day 12 - Cape Town - Winelands Visit some of the well known wine farms and get to see some of the smaller, more personalized farms. Go on a cellar tour, to discover all that is involved in turning the humble grape into some of the most sought after wines of the world. Many of these farms not only make wine and offer wine tasting, but include activities like cheese making and produce magnificent wood and other crafts. We have not included lunch, but many of the wine estates offer a picnic lunch ranging from traditional fare to cheese platters – which you can enjoy in the vineyard or the estate gardens – with a bottle of wine of course!
Day 13 - Cape Town - Cape of Good Hope One of the tour's highlights comes in the form of The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. This reserve is home to Cape Point, the most southwesterly point of Africa. It is one of the highest sea cliffs in the world. The reserve is home to indigenous plant species, some of which occur nowhere else on earth. Also visit other attractions like Chapman’s Peak (sited as the most scenic marine drive in the world), Boulders Beach (home to a colony of vulnearble African Penguins) and the historical naval village of Simon’s Town. Our last stop for the day is Hout Bay.
Day 14 - End We bid you farewell and drop you off at Cape Town airport.
US Dollar (based on R7.70/$1) 2 Pax - US$ 4468 pps 4 Pax - US$ 3117 pps 6 Pax - US$ 2662 pps SSup - US$ 1494
Exclusions Airfares to/from South Africa Accommodation in Johannesburg Drinks and curios Required Inoculations and Malaria medications Travel Insurance Multi Entry Visas (if required)
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The operator did a great job of planning our 26 days in South Africa, accommodating all our requests.
Their itinerary included a great variety of accommodations, and a comfortable vehicle for the many kilometres from Cape Town to Kruger.
Vaughn, our guide for the entire trip, was interesting and colourful. He went out of his way to make sure that we saw exactly what we wanted, that we were comfortable, and had everything we needed.
Our experience was awesome, enjoying several public and private game park safaris, boat and train rides, and great food. We truly enjoyed the scenery and viewing the wildlife in South Africa, a troubled, yet beautiful country.
We were extremely pleased with all aspects of our tour, from initial arrangements through delivering us to the airport for the return trip.
Their selection of activities, lodging, etc. considered and suited our interests and needs very well. Our only regret is that we did not involve them earlier in our planning.
Pierre and Karen are both great people and very trustworthy.
They were the greatest! Just having my husband and I with the tour guide made it so personal... truly worth the investment.
The tour guides Melanie & Mike went out of their way to make us have a vacation of a lifetime. We customized our tour from Johannesburg and Cape Town to see the culture, beauty, and history of each place. Breathtaking..... simply.... fabulous...
We went to to the Timbulvalti on safari and stayed at the Kambaku Lodge where we celebrated our anniversary and Christmas which was SO remarkable, one we shall treasure forever.
We made new friends and plan to do it again with them... all the way.
Our trip was wonderful. They coordinated many exciting activities and arranged beautiful accommodations and delicious meals for us. Our guide was friendly and informative.
We definitely recommend them, especially for people who want a customized itinerary
Book now! Without hesitation, that is our advice to any person who is considering using this tour operator to plan and guide their tour of South Africa.
We have never used a guide before and chose them because they offer private tours and do not combine parties to fill their vehicles. We were extremely satisfied with all aspects of our tour from the planning stages to the choice of accommodations to the guide himself.
We booked the 21 day tour from Johannesburg to Cape Town. Our guide, Pierre, is a knowledgeable and very personable guide who made us feel at home in South Africa from the moment we met him. The choices of game reserves and other stops on the tour were excellent and when we wanted to add or change part of the tour while in route, Pierre did everything he could to accommodate our requests. He even swung through the trees with us when we wanted to do the Tsitskamma Canopy Tour and "suffered" through a full day at the spa with us at the Pongola Game Reserve.
We especially enjoyed spending a day stopping at Zulu villages handing out clothing and soccer balls to the local people, as well as, having the opportunity to purchase old spears and other crafts directly from the Zulus. Our 21 days tour gave us a fantastic overview of the diversity and beauty of South Africa.
As Pierre told us we would be, we are now hooked on Africa. We hope to return soon to travel with them to Zimbabwe, Botswana and Namibia.
We give our highest recommendation and are looking forward to our next tour with them.
Dr. Karsten and Sydney Eden Anchorage, Alaska, USA
We have travelled the world. Forget coach tours. This operator is the best by far.
Pierre and his team provide us with a fantastic holiday and I strongly recommend them to those who want to see the best, with the best at a very reasonable cost.
My husband, my thirteen year old grandson and I just returned from an absolutely glorious exploration of South Africa.
Our trip from the time we landed in Johannesburg and departed from Cape Town was 23 days packed full of adventures. From Soweto to game safaris to Victoria falls on to whale watching and visiting schools and homesteads way back in the bush we were cared for, transported and wined and dined by our guides Pierre, Tony and Mike who had exceptional knowledge and skill. Beside their knowledge, we were constantly amazed at their ability to see and identify birds and animals in the bush or even as we drove along roads at highway speeds.
Our accommodations were always lovely and in ideal locations and settings. We stayed in a 2 bedroom log cottage by the sea, a tented lodge in Kruger National Park, an outstanding guest house on the ocean where we could whale watch from our balconies and an European style mansion in Cape Town. Because all the places were small and intimate we got to spend time with South Africans which certainly enhanced our experience. Meals were a varied experience from in the lodges to interesting but lovely restaurants and even, BBQ's cooked by our wonderful guide, Pierre. Food was plentiful, excellent and we were encouraged to order way more than we could eat. Our grandson loved this as he tried every exotic food on the menu.
Our guides Pierre, Tony and Mike, besides being unbelievably knowledgeable and informative, are wonderful company. One example is the day that Mike, a history expert, drove us to one of the Zulu-British battlefields, sat us in canvass chairs under an African tree and with props reenacted the battle. We were sure that 20,000 Zulu warriors would crest the hill at any moment.
Since I am not the easiest client to deal with as I ask too many questions and want to be involved in all decision making, I can testify to the patience and attention to details that this company provides. Having a 13 year old traveling with you can present other parameters but Pierre and Company were just incredible with our grandson making sure that he was always included, engaged and excited.
I am sure that you can tell that this is an absolute rave review. I cannot wait to travel again with Pierre and company next time to Namibia and Botswana.
8
Client:
Debbie Jones - from United States
Trip:
currently unavailable
Rating:
rating 10/10
Comment:
We returned last week from our first trip to Africa.
I have to say, that after months of anticipation, this trip was everything we expected, and more. I would highly recommend this safari operator for anyone planning a trip to Africa.
Pierre and Mike went out of their way to make sure that each person on the tour was happy and comfortable.
We intended this to be a once-in-a-lifetime trip, but, since we have come home, we have been talking about planning another trip as soon as time and money allow!
The wildlife was amazing, as was the scenery at Victoria Falls. We really could not pick just one favorite thing about the trip, it was all wonderful.
Just got back from 20 nights in Zimbabwe and South Africa. Pierre couldn't have put together a more perfect itinerary.
Four nights at A'Zambezi Lodge enjoyed the Walk With Lions, Elephant Ride Safari, Helicopter Tour of Victoria Falls, Day Trip to Botswana (Chobie)and had fun at the market. The lodge was beautiful with a friendly staff and excellent food. Returned back to Johannesburg to meet Pierre and head to Greater Kruger with stops such as waterfalls and God's Window. Timbavati reserve was teaming with wildlife and we stayed at Gomo Gomo. Another beautiful lodge with great staff and great food.
Our ranger, Trevor was fantastic at spotting and tracking animals and birds. We go so close to so many different animals it seemed like something out of a wildlife show. Trevor and Pierre's humor made the game drives and meals even more enjoyable. We spent one night in Kruger National Park where we finally spotted the infamous Bushbabies. Yes, they really do exist! Then on to Pongola where we stayed at Mvubu. Beautiful accodomations with world class views. It was here that we caught tiger fish and spotted the rhinos. Great place. Swaziland was a great experience for two nights to see how tribes really live. The entertainment, tour, food and people were again the best.
Sadly, we had to leave our beloved Pierre and fly from Durban to George where we met the other guide Pierre had arranged to show us around the Cape Town area. Mike....what a nice guy! Always working hard to meet our needs and please us. We spent 3 nights in Wilderness at Shinning Waters BB where Ann made sure we were comfortable. Beautiful home with ocean views in each room. Visited National Park, kids went Bungy Jumping, took a little hike and rode the ostriches! Great fun! Last three nights were spent in Cape Town at Blackheath Lodge. John and Antony were wonderful hosts. The home was very nice with good location. We spent our time at the Waterfront, on Table Mountain, Cape Good Hope and touring around the city.
While I was not to sure about booking a trip for my family and my husbands parents and being able to meet everyone's needs, Pierre put me at ease with his many e-mails, phone calls and listening to the endless list of things we wanted to do and see. I could have never put such a wonderful trip together myself. Pierre kept my mother in law fed and happy....a feat in itself, listened to my son's never ending stories and tolerated my daughters simple minded questions like "how did those rocks get there?" and "why is the car driving backwards?"
If you are looking for a tour company who knows their way around South Africa, Pierre will provide the trip of your dreams for a a personalized, helpful and exciting experience
We had a great couple of days in Kwa-Zulu Natal. We wanted a customised tour to fill three spare days and this safari came up trumps.
Pierre was great, meeting us at Durban and arranging every aspect of the safari and the battle field tour we had wanted to cover on our brief stay in KZN.
We would thouroughly recommend this safari operator. The Guest House, owned by Pierre in Dundee was really comfortable and we were made very welcome by Pierre and his wife Karen - great
