On arrival into Johannesburg you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
Depart after breakfast and travel to Mpumalanga via the magnificent Panorama Route. From many well-positioned vantage points one has views of the Blyde River Canyon which starts at Bourke’s Luck Potholes and ends at the Three Rondavels. Time and weather permitting, stop at God’s Window. Late afternoon arrive at your hotel located minutes from the Kruger National Park, for check in and dinner. (BD)
Day 3 - Kruger National Park
Early this morning you will depart in an open safari vehicle for your first game drive through the park. At almost a million hectares, the reserve is the flagship of South African National Parks and is home to an impressive range of flora and fauna. Return to your hotel in the afternoon and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. An optional evening safari is available (at own expense). (BD)
Day 4 - Swaziland
After breakfast, travel to the Royal Kingdom of Swaziland. Enjoy a showcase of the traditional Swazi culture followed by lunch at a cultural village. This afternoon visit the Ngwenya Glass Works to see master craftsmen create beautiful sculptures and artwork from molten glass. (BL)
Accommodation: 1 night Royal Swazi Sun Hotel & Spa.
Set in the natural tranquility of the Ezulwini Valley, the Royal Swazi Sun Hotel & Spa beckons guests from all corners of the world. Facilities at the resort include the Casino, The Royal Swazi Spa, the Convention Centre, an 18-hole championship golf course, lawn bowls, squash, tennis and horse riding. A variety of retail shops are available, providing stationery, clothing, newspapers and curios.
Day 5 - KwaZulu-Natal
Enjoy a morning visit to the Swazi Candle Factory before travelling into KwaZulu-Natal, arriving at your hotel this afternoon. Embark on an afternoon scenic drive up the Lebombo Mountains. The drive will be combined with a visit to a local and authentic Zulu homestead for a glimpse into Zulu life in today’s world. (BD)
Accommodation: 2 nights Ghost Mountain Inn.
At the foot of the legendary Ghost Mountain in Mkuze, Northern KwaZulu-Natal lies the privately owned 4 star Ghost Mountain Inn – a perfect setting to experience the allure of Africa in stylish comfort. This intimate and beautiful hotel is the ideal location from which to explore the array of wildlife and coastal reserves in Maputaland and the Elephant Coast. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife and the scenic splendours of this rich and diverse region during game drives, guided walks, cultural excursions and boat cruises in the company of knowledgeable rangers. Back at the hotel, the spa offers a range of skin and body treatments and healthy lunches in a tranquil environment. Those who prefer the relaxing sound of birdsong and the warmth of the African sun will find their respite at the poolside within the glorious gardens of Ghost Mountain Inn.
Day 6 - Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve
Transfer to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, the oldest game reserve in South Africa, for an afternoon game drive. This is where the white rhino was saved from extinction. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon and enjoy dinner. (BD)
Day 7 - Durban
Continue the journey along the Elephant Coast to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park – a UNESCO World Heritage site. Embark on a estuarine boat trip. Today’s journey finishes in Durban. (B)
Accommodation: 1 night The Benjamin Boutique Hotel.
Behind the tree-lined street, one steps into the quiet sophistication of The Benjamin Boutique Hotel. This is one of Durban’s historic buildings which has been transformed into a hotel, yet retains the charm of yesteryear. Florida Road is home to approximately 30 restaurants offering a wide range of cuisines and also boasts a bustling night life. The 43 double rooms are all air-conditioned with en-suite bathrooms and have satellite TV and Wi-Fi.
Day 8 - Port Elizabeth
Depending on your departure time of your flight, embark on a brief City Tour before flying to Port Elizabeth (flight cost not included). On arrival at Port Elizabeth Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. (B)
Accommodation: 1 night Radisson Blu Port Elizabeth.
Just 300 metres from Blue Flag beaches, the Radisson Blu Port Elizabeth boasts majestic views of the Indian Ocean, ideal for all travellers. Guests appreciate the hotel’s contemporary architecture, urban interiors and convenience to shopping, golf and entertainment destinations. 173 rooms and suites are thoughtfully equipped with free high-speed, wireless Internet access, tea and coffee provisions, and a minibar. An on-site restaurant, the Tabú Grill, offers up delicious grilled dishes, an extensive wine list and views of the ocean as a romantic backdrop. Guests can also keep up with workout routines at the gym or head to the Camelot Spa to relax and rejuvenate.
Day 9 - Plettenberg Bay
Depart Port Elizabeth and travel via the coastline to the beautiful Tsitsikamma National Park. Enjoy a walk along the suspension bridge across the Storms River Mouth Gorge which offers incredible views and photo opportunities. Continue to Plettenberg Bay for dinner and overnight. (BD)
Accommodation: 2 nights Hunters Country House.
Hunters Country House combines gracious elegance with sheer comfort and impeccable service with warm hospitality. Far from the madding crowd, yet conveniently close to a wide variety of leisure activities. Enjoy each of Hunter’s Country House luxurious room types, all individually designed and decorated with its own distinctive atmosphere.
Day 10 - Plettenberg Bay
After breakfast visit Birds of Eden, the largest free-flight bird aviary in the world. Proceed to Hog Hollow Horse Trails for a horse-drawn carriage and wine tasting experience followed by lunch (at own expense). Return to the lodge for the remainder of the afternoon at leisure before dinner. Optional: Discuss the availability of additional activities on offer in the area with your guide. (BD)
Day 11 - Knysna
After breakfast enjoy a cruise along the Keurbooms River. Visit Knysna – the ‘Gem of the Garden Route’ and explore the waterfront area before travelling to Oudtshoorn – the ‘feather capital’ of the world. Visit a working ostrich farm for a guided tour before arriving at your hotel for dinner. (BD)
Accommodation: 1 night De Opstal Country Lodge.
De Opstal Country Lodge is a luxury 4 star accommodation in the picturesque valley of Schoemanshoek, near the world famous Cango Caves of Oudtshoorn. The beautiful farm house, stables and milking parlour date back to 1830. All the buildings in the complex have been creatively converted into modern, quaint en-suite bedrooms with the retention of an atmosphere of rustic charm. The terracotta floors, heavy wooden doors and shutters and wide timber ceilings bear the scars, buckles and blemishes of generations of use and give the entire complex an authentic feel. In this relaxed atmosphere Albertus, Matilda and staff treat their guests to wholesome country hospitality and food, reminiscent of a bygone era.
Day 12 - Cape Town
After breakfast take a tour of the Cango Caves – one of the natural wonders of the world. Leave Oudtshoorn, travel via Route 62 with a lunch stop in Barrydale (at own expense), before arriving into Cape Town early evening. (B)
Accommodation: 3 nights Southern Sun Waterfront.
The Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town is situated in the heart of the city’s most sought-after areas. Being a short walk away from the famous V&A Waterfront and other Cape Town sights is just the start of this iconic accommodation landmark’s appeal. Postcard views of the harbour and of Signal Hill are rivalled only by the stylish, inviting presence of the hotel itself. Recently refurbished, the award-winning Cape Town hotel offers 537 beautifully-appointed rooms, with a host of amenities and services on offer, including free Wi-Fi, air-conditioning, a fully-equipped fitness centre and an outdoor pool.
Day 13 - Cape Town
This morning you will be collected for your scheduled full day Cape Point & Peninsula Tour – an awe-inspiring tour with breathtaking views, historic and picturesque coastal villages to the towering headland of Cape Point. (B)
Day 14 - Cape Winelands
Today you embark on your scheduled full day tour to the Cape Winelands. A delightful drive, winding to the heart of the region through superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads. (B)
Day 15 - End of Grand Tour of South Africa
This morning after breakfast you will be collected from the hotel for a scheduled City Tour – a geographical and cultural extravaganza showing you Cape Town from its historical beginnings to the dazzling, modern city it is today. Table Mountain ticket excluded (as weather permitting). (B)
After the tour you will be met and transferred to Cape Town Airport where your tour ends.