Best of South Africa

Day 1

Johannesburg

On arrival into South Africa’s most vibrant city, you are met and transferred to the luxurious Da Vinci Hotel. Located in the upscale suburb of Sandton, this five-star hotel features a classy monochrome palette and is steps from a multitude of shops and restaurants, which you are at leisure to to explore. 

Day 2

Johannesburg

Take a city tour today, gaining valuable insight into the country’s recent tumultuous past at the brilliant Apartheid Museum. You’ll also visit the moving Hector Pieterson Memorial in the colourful township of Soweto, which played a crucial role in South Africa’s political history.

Day 3

Timbavati

An early flight takes you to Hoedspruit, where you are whisked away to Tanda Tula, a tasteful safari lodge set in an exclusive private reserve inhabited by all of Africa’s legendary ‘Big 5’: lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino and elephant. Embark on an afternoon game drive, getting your first taste of South Africa’s epic wildlife.

Day 4/5

Timbavati

Enjoy two full days gameviewing in the Timbavati, which sits on the northwestern edge of the world-famous Kruger National Park. As national park rules don’t apply here, you may explore the landscape on foot whilst accompanied by a knowledgeable guide – a chance to observe smaller creatures often overlooked from a vehicle.

Day 6

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserves

Venture into big cat country this morning, travelling to Sabi Sabi Little Bush Camp. Located by an ephemeral river, this secluded safari lodge offers guests unrivalled wildlife-viewing opportunities, world-class accommodation and delicious cuisine.

Day 7/8

Sabi Sand Private Game Reserves

You have two whole days to look for rare species such as African wild dog and cheetah, who thrive in the area thanks to sound environmental management policies and healthy populations of plains game, their favourite prey. Guests in the Sabi Sand may go out in search of game at night, travel off-road as well as track game on thrilling walking safaris led by expert rangers.

Day 9

Cape Town

Early morning flight from Skukuza airport to Cape Town, where you are driven to your waterfront lodgings on arrival. The stylish Cape Grace Hotel offers elegant guestrooms and personalised service on the Victoria & Albert Waterfront, South Africa’s oldest working harbour and a popular tourist attraction.

Day 10

Cape Town

Today, if the weather is fine, you may ascend to the summit of Table Mountain (cableway ticket not included) for spectacular views of the city. You will also have the chance to wander the photogenic Malay Quarter and if time permits, the distinctive pentagonal Castle of Good Hope.

Day 11

Cape Town

Stroll the exquisite Kirstenbosch Gardens and Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve to learn about indigenous flora, before going on to see the point where two oceans meet, often with dramatic results especially for ships. At scenic Boulders Bay, keep an eye out for diminutive African penguins, easily identified by their raucous, braying calls.

Day 12

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Leave the city this morning for the award-winning Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, created as a sanctuary for native ‘fynbos’ vegetation, endemic to South Africa’s Western Cape and a magnet for exotic birds. Expect the highest standards in hospitality at this fabulous coastal lodge, which overlooks Walker Bay, a haven for southern right whales between June and September.

Days 13/14

Grootbos Private Nature Reserve

Spend two full days discovering the unique beauty of Grootbos, on horseback, by quad bike, on foot or by boat. The waters are famous for harbouring great white sharks, seals and whales, whilst on land you’ll find ancient caves and hills covered in aromatic herbs and wildflowers.

Day 15

Tour ends Cape Town

Your remarkable journey concludes with a return transfer to Cape Town.