Spectacular South Africa: Cape Town, Knysna, Kapama Private Game Reserve & More
- Duration
- 15 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,539
FIRST-CLASS | SMALL GROUP: This comprehensive South Africa tour offers a taste of all that makes the country such a great destination, including its wine regions, natural beauty, abundant wildlife, national parks, and rich native culture.
This 15-day South Africa adventure sets out from Cape Town, exploring this multifaceted country in depth before finishing up with a Kruger safari.
Settle into Cape Town, a coastal city enjoying one of the world’s most dramatic settings. Spend your first day exploring the nearby Winelands, and discover why South African wine is on the rise with connoisseurs around the globe. Then explore the Cape in all its natural splendour, from the top of Table Mountain to the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Floral Kingdom. With so much to explore in Cape Town, you might even want to consider booking an extra day or two before the tour departs.
Set out along the coast on your way to Hermanus. You’ll visit the penguin colony at Stony Point, Harold Porter National Botanical Garden, and enjoy a boutique winery stop. If you’re here between July and November, keep your eyes peeled for whales at Walker Bay. If not, just enjoy the cliff side views before going on to Knysna, home of the famous Cango Caves, and Oudtshoorn, the centre of the country’s Ostrich trade. Enjoy a cruise on Knysna Lagoon, and admire the wildlife and plant life of Featherbed Nature Reserve.
Some of South Africa’s best wildlife spotting is done offshore. Set out from Plettenberg Bay on a water safari, encountering dolphins and seals in their natural habitat. You might even spot Southern Right or Humpback whales. Back on land, try the world’s highest bungee jump if you dare. Then go on to Storms River Mouth for outstanding Indian Ocean views, before a connecting flight takes you to Durban, and the land of the famous Zulus.
North of Durban, the tiny village of St Lucia serves as gateway to Simangaliso Wetland Park, a large estuary that supports hippos, crocodiles and abundant birdlife. After a cruise through here, go in search of the Big Five in Hluhluwe-iMfoloi Park, returning to your luxury lodge for sundowners after an exciting day of sightings. The next day, head into Swaziland, the tiny country landlocked by South Africa, and visit an authentic chief’s village for a glimpse into Swazi culture.
Spend your last two days exploring two of natural South Africa’s most famous attractions, the Panorama Route and Kruger. Catch a glimpse through God’s Window, see the Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Three Rondawels at Blyde River Canyon, then go on to Kapama Private Game Reserve at North Kruger. Called Africa’s Eden, it’s the site of your first open air vehicle safari with an expert tracker. Keep your eyes peeled for the Big Five, plus over 350 bird species as you set out on numerous game drives. In your down time, do as the animals do and take it easy, or indulge in a luxury African spa treatment. Enjoy high tea before your last afternoon game drive.
Return to Hoedspruit Airport for your flight to Johannesburg, with the option of a hot air balloon flight or elephant back safari at your own expense.
- Duration
- 15 Days
- Prices From:
- US$ 4,539
Itinerary View Trip Map
Cape Town
On arrival in Cape Town, you are warmly welcomed by your representative and transferred to your boutique style guest house. Although a small city, Cape Town is packed with sightseeing attractions, excellent bars, cafes, restaurants, and colourful craft markets. The remainder of the day is at leisure (unescorted). Enjoy a sightseeing tour or simply relax and enjoy the tranquil surroundings.
Duration | 3 Nights |
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Accommodation |
Floreal House |
Location | View map |
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Floreal House
Located below the magnificent Table Mountain, guests staying at Floreal House are treated to the most stunning views of not only this wonder of the world, but also the city, harbour and Table Bay that comes alive with light at night. A short ride away, …
Located below the magnificent Table Mountain, guests staying at Floreal House are treated to the most stunning views of not only this wonder of the world, but also the city, harbour and Table Bay that comes alive with light at night. A short ride away, or even walking distance, guests will find some of the best restaurants, tourist attractions and sights the city has to offer - the beautiful Company Gardens, V&A Waterfront, the bustling city centre, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the cable-way up the mountain and the world-renowned beaches of Camps Bay, Clifton and Llandudno.
This magnificent, well-known Cape Town building boasts sweeping views of Table Mountain, the harbour and Table Bay. Dating back to the 1920's, the lodge is exceptionally stylish, with an impressive white exterior and attractive wooden-framed windows, looking out on views in all directions. Friendly hospitality is the order of the day. Meals are served all day by the swimming pool in the colourful gardens and staff are on hand at all times to help maximize the guests' enjoyment of the Mother City. Conveniently situated in historic Oranjezicht, the lodge has easy access to the Waterfront, the mountain and the beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton offering the comfort of a small hotel within a stone's throw of the heart of Cape Town.Facilities
- Bar
- Laundry Service
- Library
- Swimming Pool
- WiFi
Photo gallery
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Cape Town
After breakfast you meet your tour guide and fellow travellers and set out to the picturesque Winelands, where century old vineyards are surrounded by awe inspiring mountain scenery. With extraordinary wine estates from Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek and fascinating historical landmarks to explore, your highly knowledgeable tour guide will discuss the many possibilities and tailor-make a memorable Winelands experience.
Distance travelled today: 200 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Cape Town
This morning we ascend one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature - majestic Table Mountain (weather permitting), for unrivalled views of Cape Town. Thereafter we drive along Millionaires Mile to Camps Bay, heading towards the charming working harbour at Hout Bay. We wind along legendary Chapman's Peak Drive (if open) hugging the cliffs and relishing the breath-taking ocean views. After lunch (for own account) we visit the wild and beautiful Cape of Good Hope, an integral part of the world-renowned Cape Floral Kingdom.
Distance travelled today: 200 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Cape Town to Hermanus
We depart Cape Town after breakfast. A stunning coastal drive brings us to the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden with its delicate coastal Fynbos. En route, we seek out the small breeding colony of African Penguins at Stoney Point before arriving in the picturesque coastal town of Hermanus.
Distance travelled today: 200 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 1 Night |
Accommodation |
Misty Waves Boutique Hotel |
Location | View map |
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Misty Waves Boutique Hotel
Hermanus Western Cape, South Africa. The impressive boutique hotel is situated in the best land-based whale-watching destination in the world - Hermanus a charming coastal village in The Cape Whale Coast or Overstrand. Accommodation at our hotel offers you absolute luxury, comfort and tranquillity; and …
Hermanus Western Cape, South Africa. The impressive boutique hotel is situated in the best land-based whale-watching destination in the world - Hermanus a charming coastal village in The Cape Whale Coast or Overstrand. Accommodation at our hotel offers you absolute luxury, comfort and tranquillity; and five star service.
Luxury sea facing suites and unique conference facilities in the heart of Hermanus, just meters away from the famous cliff paths, renowned for the best land-based whale watching in the world. Impressive wedding facility with quaint chapel and a honeymoon to dream of! Our friendly staff arrange for our guests excursions to: whale watching, shark cage diving, Garden Route, safaris, wild life adventures, Addo Elephant Park, trips in the Western Cape, Western Cape Spa trips to Arabella Golf and golf in Hermanus, fishing, bird watching and wine routes. Special trips to Cape Agulhas, Cape Point, Cape Town and Table Mountain, V & A Waterfront and Robben Island.Photo gallery
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Hermanus to Oudtshoorn
This morning we explore the unique cliff paths of Hermanus and gasp at the outstanding views of Walker Bay.
During the months of July - November, the possibility of whale sightings could add further enhancement to our explorations. We depart late morning stopping for a late lunch (for own account) in the pretty village of Barrydale on the scenic "Route 62", then onward to Oudtshoorn, known as the "feather capital of the world", for a guided tour at an ostrich farm.
Distance travelled today: 380 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 1 Night |
Accommodation |
La Plume Guest House |
Location | View map |
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La Plume Guest House
La Plume Guesthouse is a 1902 Victorian homestead on a working ostrich, alfalfa and wine farm, in the Olifantsrivier Valley. It offers spectacular views of the Swartberg Mountains. The attractive homestead has expansive wooden floors and Cape antiques. There's a swimming pool to take a …
La Plume Guesthouse is a 1902 Victorian homestead on a working ostrich, alfalfa and wine farm, in the Olifantsrivier Valley.
It offers spectacular views of the Swartberg Mountains. The attractive homestead has expansive wooden floors and Cape antiques. There's a swimming pool to take a dip in.Facilities
- Bicycles
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
Photo gallery
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Oudtshoorn to Knysna
Today we will have the opportunity to marvel at the impressive Cango Caves, filled with wonderful stalactite and stalagmite formations. Thereafter enjoy a wine tasting at a boutique wine estate, situated at the foothills of the majestic Swartberg Mountains. We travel via the panoramic Outeniqua Pass to Knysna, known as the oyster box of South Africa.
Distance travelled today: 220 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 2 Nights |
Accommodation |
Knysna Hollow |
Location | View map |
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Knysna Hollow
Knysna Hollow is beautifully set in a secluded 3-acre garden environment near Knysna's famous lagoon in the heart of the Garden Route. Knysna Hollow Country Estate features 44 luxurious Garden Suites, situated in the indigenous gardens around two sparkling swimming pools. All rooms are decorated …
Knysna Hollow is beautifully set in a secluded 3-acre garden environment near Knysna's famous lagoon in the heart of the Garden Route.
Knysna Hollow Country Estate features 44 luxurious Garden Suites, situated in the indigenous gardens around two sparkling swimming pools. All rooms are decorated in a clean, contemporary style with private garden-facing verandahs and will offer all modern in-room amenities including air-conditioning, satellite television, Nespresso coffee stations, king-size beds and free wireless internet.Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Concierge
- Daycare/Babysitting Service
- Fireplace
- Gift Shop
- Hair/Beauty Salon
- Laundry facilities
- Lounge(s)
- Massage Treatments
- Parking
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Room Service
Photo gallery
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Knysna
After breakfast, journey into the magical Knysna Forests, the stamping ground of the elusive Knysna elephants.
Discover the stories of the woodcutters who worked the forests, the elephants that were hunted to extinction and the discovery of gold. Our expedition into the forest starts with a visit to the Dalene Matthee Big Tree Memorial. The enormous Yellowwood tree of over 880 years was named after Matthee, best known author of four books on the Knysna Forest. Enjoy a delicious lunch, in the forest, of traditional cuisine and local treats at the Diepwalle Tea Garden. The afternoon concludes with a visit to the Forest Legends Museum, that exhibits tools and household items used by the woodcutters, the colourful Old Suzie steam engine, that was used to generate power, and the stately Old Forester's House, home of forester David Ernest Hutchins, who was the first person to manage the indigenous forest in a sustainable manner.
Distance travelled today: 100 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast and Lunch |
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Knysna to Tsitsikamma
We depart Knysna after breakfast and travel to Plettenberg Bay for an ocean safari (weather permitting). During the summer months we may encounter bottlenose and common dolphins as well as seals in their natural environment. During the winter months we may see southern right and humpback whales. For those brave souls amongst us, this afternoon you will have the opportunity to attempt the world's highest bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge (for own account and weather permitting). We arrive late afternoon at the picturesque village of Storms River.
Distance travelled today: 130 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 1 Night |
Accommodation |
Tsitsikamma Village Inn |
Location | View map |
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Tsitsikamma Village Inn
The magical Tsitsikamma Village Inn, is a privately owned and managed hotel, originally established in 1946. Close to the Tsitsikamma National Park at Storms River Mouth, the hotel consists of 49 free-standing rooms, village-style, where each cottage is individually decorated and has its own garden …
The magical Tsitsikamma Village Inn, is a privately owned and managed hotel, originally established in 1946. Close to the Tsitsikamma National Park at Storms River Mouth, the hotel consists of 49 free-standing rooms, village-style, where each cottage is individually decorated and has its own garden matching the specific colonial building style found in the Garden Route.
Photo gallery
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Tsitsikamma to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) to Durban to Umhlanga
This morning we immerse ourselves in the splendour and tranquillity of the Tsitsikamma National Park and head to the Storms River Mouth for unrivalled views of the Indian Ocean (weather permitting). We continue our journey to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) for our onward flight to Durban. On arrival in Durban we will be met and transferred to our accommodation for the evening, on the tropical North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal.
Distance travelled today: 280 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 1 Night |
Accommodation |
Oyster Box Hotel |
Location | View map |
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Oyster Box Hotel
A national treasure, South Africa's most cherished hotel. Standing majestically on Umhlanga's beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse, discover the timeless elegance of the Oyster Box. With 86 luxurious rooms, suites and villas to choose from, The Oyster Box meets the individual …
A national treasure, South Africa's most cherished hotel. Standing majestically on Umhlanga's beachfront, overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic lighthouse, discover the timeless elegance of the Oyster Box.
With 86 luxurious rooms, suites and villas to choose from, The Oyster Box meets the individual needs of every visitor. Whether you're travelling as a family group or solo, each room is superbly designed to provide the utmost comfort and style at your home away from home.
Enjoy a multitude of dining options, including their famous curry feast and High Tea, and indulge in the award-winning spa amid tropical gardens.Facilities
- Gym/Fitness Centre
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
- Spa
Photo gallery
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Durban to Zululand
After breakfast head north to the tiny village of St Lucia, a World Heritage Site and one of South Africa's wilderness treasures. A cruise on the St Lucia Estuary (depending on favourable weather conditions) affords us wonderful photographic opportunities as we may encounter large pods of hippos, the occasional Nile crocodile and prolific birdlife. Enjoy an afternoon game drive within the heart of Big Five territory. After winding down with sundowners, we marvel at the spectacular sunsets and continue our search for elusive nocturnal creatures.
Distance travelled today: 350 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
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Duration | 1 Night |
Accommodation |
Hluhluwe River Lodge |
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Hluhluwe River Lodge
Hluhluwe River Lodge is situated on the western boundary of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and is located on a promontory with sweeping views of False Bay and the Hluhluwe river floodplain. The 12 thatched roofed chalets are separately located around the main lodge in the …
Hluhluwe River Lodge is situated on the western boundary of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and is located on a promontory with sweeping views of False Bay and the Hluhluwe river floodplain.
The 12 thatched roofed chalets are separately located around the main lodge in the shade of an indigenous forest, where the beautiful forest dwelling antelopes the shy Red Duiker and Nyala are often seen browsing.
The lodge runs scheduled game drives to the Hluhluwe iMfolozi Park every morning and evening and offers a variety of adventure activities including horse trails, mountain bike trails, a riverboat birding tour and self-guided walks.
Zululand to Swaziland
This morning will be an early start with tea, coffee and rusks after which we set out on an early morning safari in search of the Big Five, enjoying the delightful scenery and excellent safari opportunity. After breakfast we set our sights north and cross the border into the tiny Kingdom of eSwatini (Swaziland), a former British Protection Territory, now ruled by King MsWati III. Arrive in the afternoon at our luxury lodge set in a beautiful, secure estate with stunning views of the Royal Mdzimba Mountains.
Distance travelled today: 320 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Duration | 1 Night |
Accommodation |
The Royal Villas Swaziland |
Location | View map |
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The Royal Villas Swaziland
The Royal Villas Swaziland offers award winning accommodation, conference facilities and fine cuisine all year round. Set in a beautiful secure estate with stunning views of the Royal Mdzimba Mountains, the gold and browns of the African savannah are echoed throughout the Villas with each …
The Royal Villas Swaziland offers award winning accommodation, conference facilities and fine cuisine all year round. Set in a beautiful secure estate with stunning views of the Royal Mdzimba Mountains, the gold and browns of the African savannah are echoed throughout the Villas with each room designed to make the most of the African sunlight and views. Located just 10 minutes from the capital Mbabane, the Villas are well positioned close to a range of attractions and activities.
Facilities
- 24 Hour Reception
- Bar
- Currency Exchange
- Free WiFi
- Garden
- Laundry facilities
- Luggage Storage
- Private Parking
- Restaurant
- Room Service
- Terrace
- Tour Desk
Photo gallery
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Swaziland to Mpumalanga
After breakfast we visit a chief's village to gain an insight into the fascinating traditional Swati culture and the residents invite us to participate in the cultural practices. Afterwards, we cross the border back into South Africa for an afternoon arrival in the lush Sabie River Valley.
Distance travelled today: 330 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
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Duration | 1 Night |
Accommodation |
Country Boutique Hotel |
Location | View map |
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Country Boutique Hotel
A beautiful little gem perched on the outskirts of the quaint Lowveld hamlet, Whiteriver. Once the original homestead of a local avocado farming family, this charming small hotel has been entirely designed to offer luxury travellers an enveloping atmosphere of boutique style and proportions. The …
A beautiful little gem perched on the outskirts of the quaint Lowveld hamlet, Whiteriver. Once the original homestead of a local avocado farming family, this charming small hotel has been entirely designed to offer luxury travellers an enveloping atmosphere of boutique style and proportions. The understated elegance in a modern baroque style complete with ornate chandeliers and mirrors combine to create this luxury haven. Chic boutique finishes, a sparkling swimming pool with squashy poolside seats, and the cool haven of formal colonial gardens, all combine into typical boutique-hotel hallmarks. Situated approximately 10 minutes' drive from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, within close proximity to the Kruger National Park and Panorama Route.
Facilities
- Bar
- 24 Hour Security
- Gym
- Luggage Room
- Room Service
- Sauna
- Swimming Pool
Photo gallery
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Mpumalanga
Today we traverse the glorious Panorama route taking in the spectacular God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes and Three Rondavels at Blyde River Canyon. Our safari adventure continues at Kapama Private Game Reserve described as an African Eden. The reserve is a wilderness paradise. After checking in, we depart on an open vehicle safari accompanied by a ranger and tracker. We go in search of a diverse range of animal and bird species and hope to encounter the Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo.
Distance travelled today: 280 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast and Dinner |
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Duration | 2 Nights |
Accommodation |
Kapama River Lodge |
Location | View map |
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Kapama River Lodge
Kapama River Lodge is a luxury safari lodge situated within the Kapama Game Reserve, and presents the perfect blend between luxurious safari accommodation and a very generous bed capacity of 64 bedrooms. The northern Drakensberg mountain range provides a majestic backdrop to this, the largest …
Kapama River Lodge is a luxury safari lodge situated within the Kapama Game Reserve, and presents the perfect blend between luxurious safari accommodation and a very generous bed capacity of 64 bedrooms. The northern Drakensberg mountain range provides a majestic backdrop to this, the largest lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park region. Although large, it is stylishly furnished and beautifully positioned along a dry riverbed.
Facilities
- Bar(s)
- Business Centre
- Conference Facilities
- Internet Access
- Library
- Lounge(s)
- Pool (s)
- Restaurant(s)
Photo gallery
Photo 1 of 5
Mpumalanga
The day starts with an early morning safari. While seeing big game is always exhilarating, there are many other smaller species that are also captivating, and birding enthusiasts will be delighted at the approximately 350 species of birds recorded on the reserve. Return to the lodge for a few hours of relaxation. In the afternoon we will gather for high tea, before heading out for the afternoon safari. As darkness falls, the nocturnal animals of the bush come out. A variety of completely different species can be seen on the night drive back to the lodge.
Distance travelled today: 90 kms
Meal Plan | Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner |
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Mpumalanga to Hoedspruit Airport
Enjoy a final early morning open vehicle safari, before returning to the lodge for brunch. Upon checking out, you will be transferred to nearby Hoedspruit's Eastgate Airport for your onward flight to Johannesburg.
Meal Plan | Breakfast |
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Other Information
DEPARTURES:
2024: Mar 6; Apr 10; May 8; Jun 5; Jul 3, 31; Sep 4; Oct 2, 30; Dec 4
PRICE INCLUDES:
- Meet and Greet on arrival in Cape Town
- Shared arrival and departure airport transfers
- 3 nights first-class accommodations in Cape Town
- 1 night of first-class accommodations in Hermanus
- 1-night first-class accommodations in Oudtshoorn
- 2 nights of moderate accommodations in Knysna
- 1 night of moderate accommodations in Tsitsikamma
- 1-night deluxe accommodations in Umhlanga
- 1 night of first-class moderate accommodations in Hluhluwe
- 1-night deluxe accommodations in Swaziland
- 1 night of first-class accommodations in White River
- 2 nights of deluxe accommodations in Kapama Private Game Reserve
- Transport in shared air-conditioned microbus or minibus
- Services of shared, English Speaking Guide (max 8 guests)
- Included shared sightseeing with entrance fees:
- Visit to the Winelands
- Table Mountain Cableway (weather permitting)
- Peninsula Tour
- Visit to Harold Porter National Botanical Garden
- Visit the Stony Point Penguins
- Shore-based whale watching (seasonal)
- Visit to working Ostrich Farm
- Cango Caves visit
- Wine tasting at a boutique wine estate
- Visit to The Knysna Forests
- Marine safari (weather permitting)
- Visit to Tsitsikamma National Park and Storms River (weather permitting)
- Morning boat cruise on Lake St Lucia (weather permitting)
- Morning and afternoon game drives in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park
- Panorama Route tour including Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, and Bourke's Luck Potholes
- 2-morning game drives in Kapama Private Game Reserve in open vehicles
- 2-afternoon game drives in Kapama Private Game Reserve in open vehicles
- Hotel Porterage
- Bottled water in eco-friendly packaging
- 14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners
PRICE EXCLUDES:
- Travel Insurance
- International & air taxes
- Domestic flight from Gqerbha to Durban & air taxes
- Meals & beverages not explicitly listed as included
- Gratuities
- Optional excursions
- Items of a personal nature
- Visa fees if applicable
TERMS AND CONDITIONS:
Prices are "from" per person based on twin/double share accommodation and for travel in low season. Seasonal surcharges and blackout dates may apply. Limited seat/spaces and all pricing is subject to change and availability. Rates for single or triple travellers are available on request - please enquire.
* Alternative accommodation may be confirmed due to availability, these will always be in the same category or higher, at no additional charge.
31 Jul 2024