Essence of Southern Africa

Upon arrival in Cape Town, we’ll greet you and transfer you to your hotel, affectionately known by locals and regulars as Mount Nellie. Situated at the foot of Table Mountain, and within walking distance of Company’s Garden, this exquisitely restored colonial hotel was painted its distinctive shade of pink in 1918. This evening, meet your fellow travelling companions and Tour Director at a welcome reception.

After breakfast, head out to discover charming Cape Town. Take a guided tour of the Castle of Good Hope, which was built by Dutch colonialists from 1666 to 1679, making it the oldest existing building in South Africa. Visit District Six Museum and explore its enlightening exhibitions, gaining insights into the culture and poignant history of Cape Town and South Africa during the Apartheid era. Afterwards, board the aerial cableway and ride to the top of Table Mountain, where panoramic vistas of the city and its surroundings await. Tonight, savour Cape Town’s delectable cuisine at a local restaurant. 

After breakfast this morning, you’ll embark on a breathtaking journey along Chapman’s Peak Drive, widely regarded as one of the most scenic stretches of road. Soak up glorious views of the South African coast and catch glimpses of quaint villages en route to the southernmost tip of Africa, Cape Point. Then continue to Simon’s Town for a delightful lunch. Nearby lies Boulders Beach, home to a vivacious colony of penguins. Enjoy observing these fascinating creatures before returning to your hotel.

Today unfolds on your own terms with a range of Freedom of Choice sightseeing activities on offer. Afterwards, head towards the picturesque oak-lined streets of Stellenbosch. Spend the afternoon relaxing in the serene atmosphere of the Lanzerac Hotel. Set against the backdrop of magnificent mountains and lush gardens, your luxury accommodation boasts old-world charm and timeless elegance.  

Freedom of Choice – Robben Island Tour Learn about the prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated from 1964 to 1982, as well as life on the island. 

Freedom of Choice – V&A Waterfront and Zeitz MOCAA Museum Experience Enjoy a stroll along the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront before visiting the world's largest museum of contemporary African art, Zeitz MOCAA. Conclude your experience with a rooftop drink at the iconic Silo Hotel. 

Freedom of Choice – Heritage Tour Take part in a Heritage Tour, where you will discover the colourful neighbourhood of Bo‑Kaap (formerly known as the Malay Quarter). 

After your Signature Experience in Stellenbosch this morning, dedicate the rest of the day to delighting in the amenities available to enjoy at the accommodation’s estate. Surrounded by mountains and wine farms, take the opportunity to relax or partake in the activities offered within the property. Whether it is a relaxing stroll through the grounds or rejuvenating with a spa treatment (additional expense), there is plenty to experience. 

Signature Experience - Historical Walking Tour Today, you'll explore historic Stellenbosch. Admire its beautiful Cape Dutch architecture and learn about the colonial history of the area. Experience the town’s storied past, remarkable culture and inspiring artwork on a walking tour, before tasting traditional South African dishes such as savoury Bobotie and sweet Amarula mousse.

Fly to Kruger today and transfer to your private lodge, nestled within 15,000 hectares of Kruger National Park. Your luxurious safari accommodation for the next three nights offers many opportunities to seek out the local inhabitants. With around 40 different mammal species, including spotted hyena and Greater kudu, along with over 300 bird species, the park is home to an abundance of wildlife. This evening, unwind with a round of sundowners as you bask in a breathtaking African sunset, followed by a sumptuous dinner.

Set off on an incredible morning game drive this morning during your Signature Experience. Afterwards, return to your luxurious lodge for time to relax and reminisce about the morning’s adventures before you embark on another thrilling game drive in the afternoon. Cap off your day with a sensational Signature Experience beneath a starlit sky. 

Signature Experience – Early Morning Game Drive  Rise early for a morning game drive, which presents the perfect opportunity to spot animals such as giraffes, birdlife and the Little Five (the elephant shrew, ant lion, rhinoceros beetle, buffalo weaver and leopard tortoise) roaming in the wild.

Signature Experience – Boma Dinner  After an exhilarating day of game drives in the exciting Kruger National Park, enjoy a mesmerising boma dinner under the stars. A candle-lit outdoor space with a crackling fire and thatched side fences creates a remarkable atmosphere in which to savour BBQ meats, salads and traditional desserts. Soak up the unique ambience of open-air dining in the heart of the African bush, accompanied by traditional song and dance. 

This morning, you may like to join your experienced guides for an enthralling bushwalk. Immerse yourself in the wild and unspoiled landscape as you are taught how to look out for animal tracks and learn about some of the local fauna used for numerous medicinal purposes. Your day rounds out with another exhilarating game viewing experience from the comfort of a vehicle, followed by a sundown toast to all the incredible sights you have encountered through your day.

Enjoy a final morning game drive, then board a flight to Johannesburg, where you will stay overnight in preparation for our flight to Livingstone tomorrow morning. 

Fly to Livingstone and relish ample time to explore your hotel, while enjoying the company of free-roaming zebras. Your hotel boasts unrivalled direct access to Victoria Falls from dawn till dusk. In the late afternoon, embark on a stunning sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. Savour sundowners and canapés served against the backdrop of a magnificent African sunset.

Head out on a tour of Victoria Falls, which is situated on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe and known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (The Smoke That Thunders). Victoria Falls is the world’s largest sheet of falling water, spanning over 1,700 metres in width and plunging to a maximum drop of 108 metres. Learn about the rich history of the Falls and its remarkable geological features. This afternoon, enjoy a memorable Signature Experience. Delight in a delicious dinner in the evening.

Signature Experience - Helicopter Flight over Victoria Falls Embark on an exhilarating helicopter flight and admire extraordinary aerial views of thundering Victoria Falls from above. The sheer beauty of this natural phenomenon will leave you spellbound. 

Wake early and take advantage of your hotel’s direct access to the Falls, savouring a beautiful morning in this incredible location before indulging in a delectable breakfast. How you'd like to spend today is up to you with a range of Freedom of Choice activities on offer. Tonight, an unforgettable Signature Experience awaits. 

Freedom of Choice – Local Village and Maramba Market Tour Embark on a cultural tour to an authentic local village in Livingstone, then visit the vibrant Maramba Market. 

Freedom of Choice – Mosi-oa-Tunya Walking Safari Take part in a walking safari in the heart of Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park along the Zambezi River. Delight in a unique opportunity to experience the natural world from a different perspective. 

Freedom of Choice – Victoria Falls Tour and Lunch in Zimbabwe Enjoy a guided tour of the breathtaking Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, followed by lunch overlooking the spectacular gorges and falls (Zimbabwean visa at own cost). 

Signature Experience – Royal Livingstone Express Steam Train Step aboard the luxurious Royal Livingstone Express steam train for a sumptuous five-course gourmet dinner amid breathtaking views of Victoria Falls and the surrounding scenery. Once the train reaches the Victoria Falls Bridge, you will be invited to step off and watch the brilliant scenery as the glorious African sun sets behind the Falls. 

After breakfast, your spectacular journey through Southern Africa comes to an end. Transfer to the airport for your onward flight.