-
Johannesburg, South Africa
Lazy day after long flight….✈️
-
Pretoria, South Africa
-
Mpumalanga, South Africa
Begin your day with a
Pretoria orientation tour, passing through Church Square, which is surrounded by several historically and
architecturally significant buildings such as the Palace of Justice and the Old Capitol Theatre. A stop will
be made at the Union Buildings, the official seat of the South African government. Although not in the
city center, the Union Buildings are located at the highest point of Pretoria, offering impressive views. In
the terraced gardens in front of the Union Buildings, you’ll find a remarkable statue of Nelson Mandela.
After the visit, we will travel towards Mpumalanga, one of South Africa's nine provinces, often referred to
as the "Province of the Rising Sun." The journey takes us to our accommodation, situated in the heart of
the Highlands, renowned for its trout fishing. Here, you will have the chance to relax and enjoy the scenic
beauty of the area.
Travelling distance: approx. 270km
Hotel: Kloppenheim Country Estate, Mpumalanga
-
Hazyview, South Africa
Today, travel past Lydenburg and Ohrigstad on your way to the famous Panorama Route, a journey that
takes you through some of South Africa’s most stunning landscapes. The route is known for its
spectacular canyon, awe-inspiring mountains, waterfalls, and tranquil lakes. Stretching over 26 kilometres,
the valley is one of the country's most important natural wonders.
Along the Panorama Route, you’ll find viewpoints that offer breathtaking views of the canyon, some
spanning several hundred meters down.
To the north, you will see the Three Rondavels, the most striking feature of the Blyde River Canyon.
These huge rock formations resemble mushrooms sprouting from the mountainside, resembling
traditional African round huts, known as rondavels. You will also visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes, a series of
smooth, cylindrical potholes and natural rock formations carved out over millions of years by water
erosion from the Blyde River.
Included in the day’s itinerary are the Panorama Route, Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels, Bourke's
Luck Potholes, and God's Window (weather permitting). If time allows and weather conditions permit, an
optional stop at the Graskop Gorge Lift will offer additional scenic views (entrance fees are payable on
the spot approx. 300 ZAD).
The day ends in Hazyview, a small farming town renowned as the gateway to Kruger National Park.
-
Eswatini, Eswatini
Sleep in and enjoy the beautiful lodge or take part in an optional early morning game drive in search of
the Big Five. Late in the morning, we will leave the lodge and head towards eSwatini, formerly known as
Swaziland. This small kingdom covers an area of 17,000 km², making it one of the smallest independent
countries in the world. It is bordered by mountains to the west, separating it from South Africa, and to the
east, forming the border with Mozambique.
eSwatini is not only recognized for its stunning natural landscapes but also for the warmth and hospitality
of its people. The Swazi population is primarily engaged in agriculture, and the region has a history of pre-
European gold mining. The first mine discovered in the area was Forbes Main Reef in 1883.
We will arrive in Mbabane, the capital of eSwatini, which has a population of around 95,000 people and is
situated at an altitude of 1,200 meters in the Mzimba Mountains. Along with Manzini, it serves as the
commercial center of the country.
During our visit, we will stop at the Yebo Art Gallery and the Swazi Candles shop in the Malkerns Valley,
where you can purchase locally made souvenirs. Glass, wooden, or wax sculptures are ideal keepsakes to
bring home.
In the afternoon, we will reach our lodge, where you can enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Optional excursion: AM Game Drive. The morning game drive will be conducted in open safari vehicles,
including conservation fees and mineral water. The pick-up times are as follows: 05:00 AM from October
to March and 05:30 AM from April to September. The game drive will conclude with a drop-off at the
lodge by 10:00 AM.
Bookable pre-departure only.
Travelling
-
Mkuze, South Africa
The journey continues through eSwatini, heading south and along the Ubombo Mountains to Golela. As
we enter the province of KwaZulu-Natal, we find ourselves in a region rich with history, where many
significant battles and skirmishes of the mighty Zulus took place. The Elephant Coast, a relatively remote
wilderness area of South Africa, offers a tranquil and untouched environment, where nature has created
sanctuaries for rare plants and animals.
Today's destination is the small village of Mkuze, strategically located to explore the nearby iSimangaliso
Wetland Park or the Hluhluwe and Umfolozi National Park. The Mkuze Game Reserve, a 40,000-hectare
state-owned reserve, is famous for its dramatic landscapes, exceptional birdlife, and cultural village. The
scenery here is beautifully diverse, ranging from thornveld on the hills to an enchanting fig tree forest
near the pans. You'll also find stretches of acacia savannah, swamps, riverine forests, and a rare type of
sand forest.
-
uMhlanga, South Africa
Today, we have an early start, with a drive of just over an hour to the gate of South Africa’s oldest game
reserve, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi, known for being the home of the indigenous rhino population. After arriving
at the gate, we’ll switch from the coach to open safari vehicles to embark on a 3-hour game drive. During
this drive, we’ll hopefully encounter plenty of rhinos and other wildlife in their natural habitat.
Following our safari adventure, we’ll head to St Lucia, a charming village located on the east coast of
South Africa. We’ll have time to explore the main street, with its vibrant local market, and choose a spot
for lunch (not included). Afterward, we’ll visit Khula Village, located right on the doorstep of St Lucia,
where we’ll delve into the rich Zulu culture. Our first stop will be the marketplace, followed by Veyane
Cultural Village, where we’ll gain insights into traditional Zulu life. Then, we’ll enjoy a walking tour of
modern Zulu culture with a local guide who grew up in the community and will share valuable local
perspectives. This immersive experience is part of the WowZulu project, supported by the TUI Care
Foundation, and lasts for about 2 hours.
After this cultural experience, we’ll continue on to Umhlanga, our destination for the day. Umhlanga is a
popular coastal town just north of Durban, known for its beautiful beaches and lively atmosphere. The
town is famous for the iconic Umhlanga Lighthouse and its picturesque promenade, offering the perfect
blend of relaxation and excitement in this stunning vacation spot.
-
Cape Saint Francis, South Africa
Enjoy a relaxing morning at leisure, with the opportunity to stroll along the beach and soak in the serene
atmosphere of Umhlanga. Afterward, we’ll head to the airport for our flight from Durban to Port
Elizabeth. The flight details are as follows: FA421, departing at 14:05 and arriving at 15:30.
Upon arrival in Port Elizabeth, we’ll continue our journey to Surfer’s Paradise in Cape St Francis, a
beautiful coastal destination known for its pristine beaches and laid-back charm. The rest of the day is
free to relax and explore the area at your own pace.
-
Knysna, South Africa
On our way to Knysna, driving along the scenic Garden Route, we stop to visit Tsitsikamma National Park.
A leisurely 1 hour walk through lush forest to a hanging bridge, offers spectacular views over Storms River
Mouth.
Next stop is Bloukrans Bridge where we enjoy the breath-taking scenery at one of the world's highest
Bungee Jump from a bridge. At arrival in Knysna, we’ll drive to the Eastern Knysna Head, one of the 2
sandstone cliffs that separate the Knysna lagoon from the rest of the Indian Ocean to enjoy the stunning
view from the cliff head. Rest of the afternoon is free to spend at leisure, From Knysna Waterfront, a
central point of activity in Knysna, one can do some shopping or enjoy dinner in one of the many
restaurants
Day 2
Today is at your leisure, offering you the opportunity to choose from a variety of exciting activities. Your
local guide will be available to assist with booking optional excursions and transfers. Whatever activity you
choose, it will be a day of adventure or relaxation at your own pace.
Optional excursions:
Seasonal Whale and Dolphin Watching Boat Tour in Plettenberg Bay. A 1.5-hour whale watching
boat trip. This excursion is weather-dependent and can be booked on the spot. Return transfer from and
to Knysna is not included. 1100 ZAR.
Robberg Nature Reserve. Explore the inspiring landscapes of Robberg Nature Reserve with a chance to
spot dolphins, whales (in season), various bird species, and seals. There are three circular hiking routes of
varying difficulty: Gap Circuit: 2.1 km – 30 minutes, Witsand Circuit: 5.5 km – 2 hours, Point Circuit: 9.2
km.
– 4 hours. 60 ZAR.
Featherbed Nature Reserve. This 4-hour excursion includes a ferry cruise, a 4×4 vehicle drive, and a 2.2
km guided nature walk. The breathtaking views and insights into the area’s flora and fauna will be shared
by knowledgeable nature guides. A buffet lunch is included in the tour. 1320 ZAR
Knysna Ziplining. A 2-hour ziplining experience across the Kranshoek Sanparks picnic site, with some of
the longest ziplines you'll ever experience, crossing a gorge at heights of over 200 meters. Return transfer
from and to Knysna is not included. 1000 ZAR
All optional excursions today are bookable in destination via the guide only
-
Knysna, South Africa
-
Knysna, South Africa
-
Oudtshoorn, South Africa
Today, we start with a visit to the scenic Dolphin Viewpoint near Wilderness, offering beautiful views of
the coastline. Afterward, we head inland to Oudtshoorn, the heart of ostrich farming in South Africa.
Upon arrival, we’ll enjoy a one-hour tractor ride over a working Safari ostrich farm, where visitors can
observe large flocks of ostriches. Depending on the season, you may see breeding pairs, eggs in
incubators, hatching chicks, and young ostriches of various ages.
Next, we visit the famous Cango Caves, a natural wonder of gigantic proportions carved out of limestone
over millions of years. These caves are considered one of the greatest natural marvels on earth, with
breathtaking formations that will leave you in awe. After the day’s explorations, we’ll head to our hotel for
check-in and relaxation.
Travelling distance: approx. 190km
-
Stellenbosch, South Africa
Today, we travel through the semi-desert landscape of the Little Karoo, passing through the charming towns
of Calitzdorp, Barrydale, and the scenic Tradouw Pass along Route 62. Our first stop will be in Robertson,
where we’ll enjoy a wine tasting and a cellar tour, experiencing some of the best local wines in the region.
Afterward, we continue our journey to Stellenbosch, one of the most picturesque and well-preserved towns
in South Africa.
In Stellenbosch, we’ll take a short stroll through the town's historic center, admiring the many original Cape
Dutch buildings that line Dorp Street and its neighbour
-
Cape Town, South Africa
Continue your journey to Cape Town, where you will check in at your hotel. In the afternoon, you’ll begin
discovering the vibrant Mother City. Your tour will include a visit to Company’s Garden, a historical park in
the heart of Cape Town, and the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, renowned for its rich Cape Malay
culture.
The highlight of your stay in Cape Town is a trip to Table Mountain, offering breathtaking views of the city
and coastline (note that the aerial cable car ticket is not included but can be booked on the spot for 460
ZAR). Please be aware that the cable car operates weather permitting and is closed for annual
maintenance during a few weeks in July and August.
After your visit to Table Mountain, you’ll be dropped off at the iconic V&A Waterfront, where you can
explore the shops, restaurants, and attractions at your leisure