The itinerary for this safari in South Africa combines the best of bustling Cape Town with the wildlife-rich South African bush. Start in the heart of Cape Town, exploring iconic Table Mountain. Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned before the fall of apartheid. Take an epicurean detour by horseback and bicycle to the picturesque Cape Winelands. Known for producing several outstanding vintages of South African wine the thoroughly charming historic Cape Dutch architecture and miles of vineyards offer one of the most scenic panoramas in all of Africa. Take a beach day before heading into the bush. Get ready to spend your time spotting lion, leopard, elephant, and many more species, sleep under the vibrant African sky, serenaded by the sounds of the bush as you are safely ensconced in a tree house. Learn about Zulu culture, and then participate in conservation by helping to collar elephants.
Highlights
- Robben Island
- Tour Cape Town beaches
- Bicycle through the charming Cape Winelands
- Enjoy a walking safari
- Stop at the KwaZulu Cultural and Historical Museum
- Immersive and unique leopard experience
- Elephant collaring experience
Itinerary
DAY 1 – YOUR SAFARI IN SOUTH AFRICA
Cape Town
Welcome to Africa! Upon arrival, you will be transferred to Ellerman House. The Grand Dame of Cape Town is the benchmark for service excellence, luxury, and refined living. The South African art is peerless, the cuisine is exhilarating and the views may include whales.
DAY 2
Cape Town Peninsula
After breakfast, set out with your guide for a full day exploration of Cape Town. First, head to the Cape Point at the Southwestern tip of Africa. Visit the only penguin colony on the continent at Boulders Beach. Then head to Cape of Good Hope Nature reserve, and explore Chapman’s Peak, stopping for lunch at the Harbour House, with an unbeatable view of the ocean.
DAY 3
Township Tour
After breakfast, head out with your guide to the urban residential ares that were set aside for non-white people during South Africa’s policy of Apartheid, and get a unique glimpse into the challenges and triumphs of the people who live there now.
DAY 4
Mala Mala Game Reserve
Today your wildlife safari begins. After breakfast, you fly to Mala Mala Game Reserve. Massive trees and rolling green lawns are filled with bird song, and wooden deck opens to views of the Sand River. Enjoy an afternoon game drive.
DAY 5
Mala Mala Game Reserve Game Drive
Enjoy a morning game drive, getting up close to countless animal species (including predators, general game, reptiles, insects, and birds-a-plenty). Return to camp for dinner and overnight.
DAY 6
Walking Safari in South Africa – Mala Mala Game Reserve
Walking Safaris are the perfect way to forge a one-on-one connection with Africa. Set out on foot with your guide and learn how to track game. Discover the little clues and some of the smaller elements of the African bush that are easy to miss from a safari vehicle. This afternoon, enjoy a game drive and sundowner cocktails while the sun sets.
DAY 7
Sleep in the Sand Forest
Transfer to Phinda Forest Lodge located in KwaZulu-Natal. Arrive at Phinda Forest Lodge in time for a relaxing afternoon by the sparkling rim-flow swimming pool looking out onto panoramic views of an open meadow teeming with game. Enjoy a late afternoon game drive and sundowners before returning to camp for dinner and overnight.
DAY 8
Day in the Bush
After morning coffee, transfer back to camp for a full hot breakfast. This morning, enjoy a guided bush walk before taking a siesta in the inviting glass walled rooms. Tonight, enjoy an evening game drive and gourmet bush dinner under the African stars.
DAY 9
Phinda Private Game Reserve and Zululand
Enjoy another day in the bush, stopping to visit the nearby Zulu Village.
In the evenings, when warm firelight welcomes you to the traditional African boma, wide-eyed bush babies watch inquisitively from the dense foliage above as you in indulge in a mouth-watering, lantern-lit feast beneath a canvas of stars.
DAY 10
Travel Home
After breakfast, fly back to the Johannesburg airport to conclude your amazing safari in South Africa and pick up your international flight home.