2 nights Cape Town | 2 nights Sanbona | 2 nights Swellendam | 3 nights Grootbos National Reserve | 1 night Cape Town | 2 nights Rovos Rail | 1 night Pretoria | 3 nights Madikwe
Overview
Victoria and Daniel contacted Pembury Tours directly online in late 2018. I was the dedicated Consultant on duty when this unique enquiry came in. The couple had visited Southern Africa before so the main attractions such as Kruger, Cape Town and Victoria Falls had already been ticked off. They were now interested in a Malaria-Free Journey with a few nights in Cape Town and the rest was up to me! Based on the couple’s interests, I decided to provide them with an itinerary that incorporated South Africa’s scenery and landscapes as well as a different safari in the Madikwe Game Reserve. The itinerary designed for the couple included Sanbona Wildlife Reserve for a Karoo style safari, Grootbos Nature Reserve for natural beauty and the ocean, Jan Harmsgat in Swellendam to explore a working farm, the Rovos Rail to enjoy the scenic landscape between Cape Town and Johannesburg but with a twist and enjoyed via a stream train and finally ending in the Madikwe Game Reserve for a Big 5 Safari. The couple loved the proposed itinerary and I was pleased to have ticked off their new bucket list for this adventure!
Trip Highlights
- Cape Town Luxury Accommodation
- Dwyka Tented Camp
- Swellendam Farm Experience
- Forest & Fynbos Tours
- Marine SafariJamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge
- Big Five Game Viewing
- Cape Town Fine Dining
- Sanbona Wildlife
- Grootbos Private Natrure Reserve
- Rovos Rail Luxury Accommodation
- Wheelchair Access & Assistance
- Madikwe Game Reserve Magic
- Abundant Birdlife
Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport from your international flight, you are met by our representative and your travel documents will be handed to you. Once you have received your documents, our representative will transfer you by road to Luxury Hotel ideally located above the dramatic Atlantic Ocean along the majestic Twelve Apostles and Table Mountain Range.
Arriving at your hotel, you are met at reception and assisted to your Luxury Room for your two night stay. You enjoy time at leisure to settle into your room before making your way to Azure Restaurant for a fine dining experience.
Road Transfer Time – Cape Town Airport to Twelve Apostles: approx. 40 minutes
Welcome to Cape Town, Mother City of Africa, and the Western Cape, an area which is regarded as one of the most beautiful regions in the world. Explore the Mother City and the Fairest Cape – from the oldest buildings in South Africa to trendy waterfront shopping; from majestic Table Mountain to sun drenched beaches; and from dramatic seascapes to verdant vineyards.
This morning you enjoy breakfast overlooking the Atlantic Ocean before you are met by your driver and transferred to your Luxury Wildlife Reserve in the Klein (Little) Karoo for your three night stay. Enjoy the scenic drive along the N2, Route 44 and 62 from Cape Town to the malaria-free game reserve nestled at the foot of the towering Warmwaterberg Mountain.
Arriving at the Welcome Lounge in the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, you are met by the staff members with a refreshing welcome drink before you transferred by game viewing vehicle to your lodge within the reserve. Arriving at your tented lodge, you are assisted to your tented suite for your stay. There is time to settle into your suite before departing on your afternoon game activity. Returning to the lodge in the early evening, you enjoy dinner before retiring to your tented suite for the evening.
Road Transfer Time – Cape Town to Sanbona Wildlife Reserve: approx. 3 hours
Seated at the foot of the Warmwaterberg Mountain Range in the heart of the Little Karoo, Sanbona pays tribute to the San people who made this arid environment their home for centuries. Sanbona has an alluring atmosphere of stillness, an air of isolation amid the raw beauty and boundless plains.
After your final morning game drive and brunch, you bid farewell to this African Wonderland. Your driver will meet you at the Welcome Lounge and transfer you by road to your Historic Country House on the Jan Harmsgat Farm.
Arriving at your Country House, you are met at reception and assisted to your Superior Suite for your 2 night stay. You may decide to explore the area with your guide this afternoon. You may discuss the various options with your guide.The afternoon and evening is spent at leisure.
Swellendam is the third oldest town in South Africa, boasting a range of exciting attractions. It features over 50 national monuments and is the largest youngberry growing region in the world. Enjoy berry picking, liqueur tastings, and a variety of historical outings. The Hermitage Valley is the largest youngberry producer in the country and visitors are invited to visit some of the farms and taste the liqueur and other berry products on offer.
Swellendam is also famous for the picturesque Koornlands River, its many ancient oak trees which line the streets, the Cape Dutch architecture with their thatch roofs, stately whitewashed homesteads. Today Swellendam is a prosperous agricultural area, known for its Mediterranean climate that makes it an ideal holiday destination all year round.
Road Transfer Time – Sanbona to Swellendam: approx. 1 hour
Swellendam has many historic buildings that serve as a reminder of its exciting past. Visitors should not miss a chance to visit The Drostdy Museum consisting of a collection of heritage sites, namely the Drostdy, the old Gaol, and Mayville House. The Drostdy, which served as the official residence of the magistrate of Swellendam, was one of the most important buildings in the town.
Swellendam is notably the largest youngberry growing region in the world, including farms such as Wildebraam Liqueur Farm and The Berry Farm, where one can enjoy tastings, cellar tours, and berry picking. Other activities to enjoy in Swellendam include lavender picking at the Lavender Farm, relaxing at Warmwaterberg Spa, golfing at Swellendam Golf Club, wine tasting along the Robertson Wine Valley, and canoeing along the Breede River.
Your morning is spent at leisure and enjoying a full farm breakfast before your driver collects you from your Country House and you are transferred along the N2 towards your Luxury Forest Lodge in the Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Grootbos Nature Reserve is ideally situated between Hermanus, Gansbaai and De Kelders.
Arriving Grootbos Forest Lodge, you are met at reception and taken to your Luxury Suite for your three night stay. The afternoon is spent at leisure to settle in or you may decide to explore one of the areas in the reserve.
Road Transfer Time – Swellendam to Grootbos: approx. 1 ½ hours
Flanked by the spectacular cliffs of Walker Bay, is the beautiful Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Located close to Cape Town, Grootbos Nature Reserve is a luxury eco-reserve situated close to Hermanus and the Southern Tip of Africa, tucked in-between mountains, forest and the ocean.
Besides the luxurious Lodges located on the Reserve, Grootbos Nature Reserve is a pristine gem dedicated to the preservation of flora and fauna along its coastline. The 2,500 ha reserve is home to 100 endangered plant species, over 20 mammal species, 3 milkwood forests over 10 years old and some of the best land based whale watching along the coast!
Today, you leave this wilderness behind. Once you have enjoyed a leisurely breakfast, you are met at your Lodge by your guide and bid farewell to the Grootbos Nature Reserve. Your driver departs the reserve and transfers you by road to your Boutique Hotel ideally located along the V&A Waterfront.
En-route to your Boutique Hotel, you enjoy the scenic drive along the coastal Route 44, by passing and stopping en-route at the small coastal towns Kleinmond, Betties Bay and Rooi Els.
Arriving at your hotel in the mid-afternoon, you are met at reception and assisted to your suite for your overnight stay. The rest of the afternoon and evening is at leisure.
Road Transfer Time – Grootbos to Cape Town: approx. 3 hours
Day 1:
This morning you are treated to breakfast at your hotel before you are met and transferred by road to the Cape Town Train Station. Arriving at the Station by 10h00, you are met at the Rovos Rail Welcome Lounge with refreshments. Enjoy a leisurely check in before you are assisted to your Pullman Suite.
You have time to settle in before departing the Cape Town Train Station at 11h00. Once you have settled it, you may decide to spend time at leisure in your suite or make your way to the lounge car or observation car to join fellow travellers prior to lunch. Lunch is served in the dining car at 13h00.
At 15h00, the train reaches Worcester in the Hex River Valley before climbing ±750m up the face of the escarpment. The train arrives at the first of four tunnels on the pass. The last tunnel is 13.5 kilometres long so guests are to be careful when walking through the train and may wish to turn on necessary lights. Tea is served in the lounge car and observation car at the rear of the train at 16h30.
Arriving in Matjiesfontein at 17h45, guests can disembark the Train for an opportunity to stroll through the historic village. Of special interest is the museum on the platform and a collection of historic cars and railway carriages to the right of the Lord Milner Hotel.
The Train Departs at 19h00 and continues along the Karoo tracks. Dinner is served at 19h30 in the dining cars en-route to Kimberley.
After a peaceful nights rest, you awaken to the scenic Karoo Terrain.
Breakfast is served from 07h00 to 10h00 in the dining cars. The rest of the morning is spent at leisure in your suite or in one of the lounge or observation cars before lunch is served at 12h30.
Enjoy lunch before arriving in South Africa’s Diamond Capital, Kimberley at 14h30. Here, you disembark and enjoy a tour of the City, the Diamond Mine Museum and the Big Hole.
Those with a hankering for history will discover a hidden treasure in Kimberley’s Diamond Museum. Visitors can relish authentic relics from the diamond rush while catching a glimpse of what Kimberley looked like in its Victorian heyday. The Museum features a valuable display of uncut diamonds, precious stones and jewellery. Owing to an investment by De Beers Consolidated Mines, the Big Hole is now a world-class tourist destination which draws visitors from all corners of the globe. While no longer an opulent den dotted with valuable diamonds, the Big Hole functions as an intriguing open-air visitor experience surrounded by original buildings hailing from the diamond-rush heyday.
Departing Kimberley at 16h00, be sure to keep an eye out for the shallow lake seen on the left side of the train where, on most occasions, there are spectacular flocks of Lesser Flamingos (approximately 23 000). Dinner is served at 19h30 in the dining cars en-route to Klerksdorp. NOTE: Formal Dress at Dinner.
Your final morning on the Rovos Rail is spent at leisure as you enjoy breakfast in the dining cars from 07h00 to 10h00 en-route to Pretoria. Travelling North East through the goldfields of the Witwatersrand, you arrive at the Pretoria Train Station at 12h00.
Disembark the Train and bidding farewell to the staff members on board, you are met by your driver and assisted to your Boutique Hotel for your overnight stay. Arriving at your hotel, you are met at reception and assisted to your View Room for an afternoon at leisure.
The City of Pretoria lies only 58 km north of Johannesburg and provides a complete contrast to the City of Gold. South Africa’s administrative capital was founded in 1855 and named after the Voortrekker leader, Andries Pretorius.
Often referred to as the “Jacaranda City”, this nickname refers to the thousands of trees lining the streets, their purple blossoms heralding the approach of summer each October.
Total Kilometres Travelled By Train: approx. 1600 km
Today, your safari begins! This morning you enjoy breakfast at your hotel before you are met by your driver and transferred by road through the rolling hills of the North West Province to your Luxury Safari Lodge in the Madikwe Game Reserve for your three night safari.
Arriving at your Luxury Lodge in the mid-afternoon, you are met with a refreshing welcome drink before you are assisted to your Luxury Villa. There is time to settle in before departing on your first afternoon game drive in the Madikwe Game Reserve.
Road Transfer Time – Pretoria to Madikwe: approx. 4 ½ hours
The 76,000 hectare Madikwe Game Reserve is one of South Africa’s biggest wildlife sanctuaries and is home to the Big 5 and over 340 bird species. It is especially famous for its packs of African Wild Dog – and it is malaria-free. It is about 4 hours by road from Johannesburg. Madikwe is situated in the transition region between two vegetation types: Lowveld bushveld and Kalahari thornveld. As a result, the region is able to host to an incredible diversity of species.
In addition to wild dog, cheetah, lion, white and black rhino, buffalo and elephant, Madikwe is home to a wide range of plains game, such as giraffe, zebra and many antelope species
The day starts as dawn breaks with your final morning game drive and brunch in the Madikwe Game Reserve. You are met by your driver at the lodge and transferred by road to OR Tambo International Airport. Arriving in Johannesburg, you bid farewell to your driver and make your way to the International Departures Terminal for your flight home.
Road Transfer Time – Madikwe to OR Tambo Airport: approx. 4 ½ hours
Cape Town: Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa
The luxurious Twelve Apostles Hotel & Spa is situated at the very edge of the Atlantic Ocean with the spectacular Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles Mountain range as its backdrop. The hotel boasts airy suites with mountain, garden and sea views, contemporary bathrooms, a spectacular landscaped garden and dedicated entertainment centre equipped with a private cinema.
Contemporary décor style incorporates cool colours, giving a light and fresh feel to the rooms, while the richness of the fabrics, ornate décor and luxury amenities make the experience a warm and comfortable one.
The Azure restaurant looks out to the sparkling ocean and serves renowned international and local cookery while the Café Grill delights with lighter fare. The Leopard Room Bar delights with over 70 types of Vodka. Activities are plentiful due to the hotel’s perfect location.
Discover the wilderness trails of Table Mountain National Park and savour the magnificent panoramic views and picnic options. For a more relaxing option, guests can head to the pristine beaches around Camps Bay.
The Leopard Bar, popular with locals and visitors alike, is one of the best venues in the Mother City for anything from sundowner cocktails and live entertainment to late-evening cognacs to end your day in style
Sanbona Wildlife Reserve: Dwyka Tented Lodge
Dwyka Tented Lodge, situated in a horseshoe bend of a dry Karoo ravine in the Sanbona Game Reserve, has recently undergone refurbishment and now offers a fresh new look and feel, yet retains what guests have come to love. The original wood and stone have been reused and in order to make this luxury nine tented lodge environmentally green as possible, solar assisted geysers have been installed.
Earth-friendly fabrics and décor have been combined with fresh, neutral tones which blend in with the unique setting in which Dwyka is located. Surrounded by awe-inspiring rock formations, once home of ancient Khoisan hunters, these beautifully appointed tents exude an atmosphere of pioneering adventure in a vast and hidden landscape.
Dwyka Tented Lodge offers 9 air-conditioned Luxury Tented Suites that can be configured into twin or king beds each with luxury features including an en-suite bathroom, indoor and outdoor shower, tea and coffee making facilities and a private viewing deck with a spa bath.
Swellendam: Jan Harmsgat Historical Country House & Farm
Situated in Swellendam, you will discover the historic charm of the 5-Star Country House. Jan Harmsgat comprises of 10-exclusive rooms – Double, Twin & Family Rooms plus a romantic honeymoon suite. With breakfast included and a fine-dining restaurant on-site for dinner, they grow our own produce for the table. Just across the road, explore their 680 hectare working farm with hand-picked cultivars that make their single-block JHG Wine’s – tastings & sales available.
Granted as a ‘freehold farm’ in 1723, the historically significant buildings at Jan Harmansz schat (Jan Harmans Treasure) are featured in the writings of Lady Anne Barnard. The original meter thick walls and yellowwood details provide an authentic country experience filled with ambience, charm and history.
Jan Harmsgat Country House offers ten beautifully decorated rooms which are situated in three different buildings. Flat screen TV’s with a selected DSTV package is featured in all rooms plus free Wi-Fi.
Famous for their baked goods, preserves, and orchards, Jan Harmsgat provides an award-winning dining experience. All overnight guests are treated to a Jan Harmsgat Breakfast, which includes fresh fruit parfait topped with homemade muesli and yoghurt, followed by hot breakfast of their choice, freshly squeezed juice and fresh brewed coffee or tea. Lunch and dinner menu changes frequently as the kitchen utilizes fresh produce grown in its own garden.
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve: Forest Lodge
Forest Lodge:
The contemporary design and décor of Forest Lodge could place it in any of the top cities in the world. But nowhere else would you be able to enjoy one of the world’s most biodiverse landscapes, the changing colours in the southern sky and the occasional little buck that comes feeding nearby. Set on a hill with 180-degree views of the fynbos and ocean, Forest lodge boosts 16 luxurious free-standing suites.
Large, private cottages include spacious bedrooms, lovely en-suite bathrooms, air-conditioning and secluded balconies from where guests can admire the breath-taking sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean. Guests can savour hearty breakfast and lavish five-course dinners in the superb restaurant boasting sweeping views of the picturesque surroundings — the passionate chefs work their magic in transforming freshly-caught fish, succulent meats and organic produce into delectable culinary creations.
At the end of the day, guests can head to the bar for refreshing cocktails, whilst drinking in the sweeping views from Walker Bay to Cape Point, or retreat to the cosy sitting room for a comfortable spot around the open fireplace on chilly evenings.
Meander through an ancient Milkwood forest, soak up the beauty of the fynbos or admire dramatic mountain and sea views as you wind your way towards your private suite. All of the accommodation at Grootbos has been designed to complement the pristine natural setting, while never compromising on style or luxury.
Cape Town: The Dock House Boutique Hotel
Situated in the Waterfront’s Portswood Precinct, opposite the graceful Time Ball Tower and its’ sister property, the renowned Victoria & Alfred Hotel, the prime V&A Waterfront location ensures that guests of Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa have safe and convenient access to the vibrant harbour area, upmarket shopping malls, excellent restaurants and entertainment areas – all of which are within walking distance.
Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa is a unique jewel in the crown of Cape Town’s world-famous Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Discerning guests, visiting dignitaries and celebrities have come to expect exclusivity and a personalised yet unobtrusive butler-style service from this exclusive accommodation. For added convenience and privacy, guests are checked-in in the comfort of their rooms.
The glamorous suite and each of the five rooms at Dock House Boutique Hotel & Spa have been individually decorated and offer a unique and understated Victorian elegance, juxtaposed with lush contemporary style and comfort.
Attention to detail is paramount with each room equipped with an en-suite designer bathroom, a stylish open bar, plasma-screen television, satellite decoder and complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi. The suite has access to a private garden, while the other ground floor room opens onto a veranda overlooking the groomed garden and swimming pool area. Three of the four upstairs rooms have balconies overlooking the Waterfront’s scenic harbour and surroundings.
Rovos Rail Luxury Train
On this 3 day journey, you will travel from trendy Cape Town, through a myriad of different landscapes ranging from the Cape Winelands to the Karoo, and eventually arrive in historic Pretoria. The train has been restored to its original late Victorian/early Edwardian period glory, and is a brilliant way to experience the glamour and beauty of a bygone era.
The Pullman Suites are equipped with a comfortable sofa-seat during the day with a conversion to double or twin beds for the evening, and also have an en-suite bathroom with shower. The wood-panelled rebuilt sleeper coaches, remodelled and refurbished to mint condition, offer every modern convenience and comfort. In the en-suite bathrooms, original fittings combine with the modern technology of hot showers, hair dryers and shaver plugs.
The spacious suites offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort and luxury, with fittings and facilities that are of the highest standard. All are equipped with a writing surface and a personal safe for valuables. There is tea drawer and room service is available 24 hours a day.Meals are served in the beautiful Victorian dining cars and are complemented by a fine selection of local wines. The sounding of a gong heralds a formal dinner – an affair where only the finest food and wine are served. Ingredients are all sourced locally, and meals are accented with traditional African flavours.
Pretoria: 131 Herbert Baker Boutique Hotel
With an incredible 180 degree view of the city of Pretoria, the exceptional 131 on Herbert Baker Boutique Hotel stands primely positioned in the leafy suburb of Groenkloof. Bordering on the Groenkloof Nature Reserve, the private boutique hotel offers discerning visitors to Pretoria and Johannesburg an exclusive refuge from the bustle of the city.
Originally built as a private residence, 131 on Herbert Baker Boutique Hotel was exquisitely transformed to provide outstanding hotel luxury, catering perfectly to the refined tastes of its clientele. The meticulous attention to every detail, together with impeccable service and superb dining, creates a distinctive boutique experience that has quickly earned 131 on Herbert Baker an excellent reputation.
The hotel offers nine beautifully appointed guest suites and rooms, each with its own private balcony or patio/terrace. For guests who prefer to celebrate life in supreme style, the magnificent Presidential suite includes its own private lounge and dining area.
Guests are invited to relax, unwind and savour a delicious drink in the hotel lounge or on the lawn, with its magical sunset views. The hotel’s extensive drinks menu includes a remarkable wine list, to impress even the most selective connoisseurs. For culinary delights and a spectacular view of the city, the hotel’s exclusive Ristorante Grissini is open daily. A full English and continental breakfast is included in the daily rate, while lunch and dinner guests are treated to sumptuous gourmet creations.
Madikwe Game Reserve: Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge
Set in the pristine 75 000 hectare malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve, Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge is the ideal place for that ultimate 5-star safari experience. Owner-managed and run, Jamala Madikwe offers an intimate bush experience, where personal service and attention to detail are the cornerstones of every moment. The lodge successfully combines colonial style and African eccentricity. Positioned beneath a canopy of ancient Leadwood trees, the lodge has magnificent views of open savanna plains and a waterhole that abounds with wildlife. The lounge area invites you in with its comfortable couches, wooden antiques and African artefacts and roaring fire for those chilly winter nights. There is a wrap-around deck, which makes the most of the view.
Jamala Madikwe caters to a maximum of 10 guests only, in 5 luxurious free-standing villas. Carefully considered design ensures that each private villa enjoys expansive views of open savannas and the Jamala watering hole. The villas are enormous, with a gracious bedroom, luxurious bathroom and a separate lounge. Each villa has its own rim-flow pool and sala, expansive wooden decks and a private outdoor shower.
Designer dining is of the highest standard and a team of chefs under the tutelage of award-winning chef Nico Verster prepare gourmet dishes for guests who dine in plush surrounds at the long wooden dining room table, under the stars or in the privacy of their beautifully appointed rooms.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Cape Town: Full Day Private Cape Town Foodie Tour
Your Guide will collect you at your hotel reception at 09h00 this morning. Although you are treated to a full day of food, please ensure you eat breakfast at your hotel as the day is spent snacking through various locations. A Full Lunch will be served at 13h30.
Known as the “Rainbow Nation”, South Africa’s diverse culinary influences will be sampled as we visit local eateries and artisans. Stops can include the Company’s Gardens, established by the Dutch as a supply station between Europe and the East; the Bo Kaap, Cape Town’s colourful Cape Malay quarter; the trendy suburb of Woodstock, or the famous Bree Street known as the place to be amongst local foodies. Tastings vary from week to week, depending on what is available and in season.
Your Tour includes 4 to 5 food or drink tastings, lunch and Return Transfer. You are dropped off at your hotel in the late afternoon and the evening is at leisure.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Sanbona Wildlife Reserve: Daily Safari Programme at Dwyka Tented Lodge
Sanbona is one of the largest private game reserves in South Africa and was the first authentic free roaming “Big 5” wildlife reserve in the Western Cape. In addition to lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo and leopard, Sanbona is home to cheetah, brown hyena, jackal, hippo, giraffe, zebra and a multitude of antelope species such as eland, gemsbok, kudu, red hartebeest, wildebeest and springbok. Experienced game rangers will take you on open-vehicle game drives and guided bush walks.
Game drives take place in the early morning and evening to ensure game viewing when animals are most active. Night game drives provide a fascinating glimpse into the lives of the predators.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Jan Harmsgat Country House: Backlands Farm Tour
Join us on a Back lands Farm Tour and enjoy a sunset picnic and wine tasting in the countryside. You are briefed on the tour upon arrival at Jan Harmsgat and may decide to focus on the farm or combine this experience with a drive through the Vineyards.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Grootbos Private Nature Reserve: Activities at Forest Lodge
The collection of activities included in the Grootbos Nature Reserve’s Nightly Rate is inspired by the pristine surroundings. Activities included during your stay at Forest Lodge include:
Horse Riding Through the Reserve:
Take a slow trot as you appreciate the views or ride down the sweeping sand dunes, the fresh air filling your lungs and exhilaration pumping through your veins. Enjoy a relaxed ride through the fynbos or ride one of the special horses that are specifically trained for the beach.
Guided and Self-Guided Walks including Fynbos Nature Tour and Milkwood Walks:
Enjoy an entrancing stroll through the Milkwood forest or a more revitalising hike up the fynbos-clad mountains, as you begin to understand what makes Grootbos quite so special. From a sunbird sipping from a flower to an ocean vista that leaves you breathless, surprises await you around every corner.
Nature, Marine & Coastal Drives and Walking:
Walker Bay Nature Reserve, De Kelder Cliff Walk, Klipgat Cave and seasonal boat and land-based Whale Watching. Keep still, listen intently and you’ll be amazed at the things you learn on a botanical safari. With the richest temperate flora in the world and six completely new species never discovered by science before, your time at Grootbos will mean that you’ll never look at plants and flowers in quite the same way again. The guided cave tour along the dramatic limestone cliffs of De Kelders will introduce you to a Stone Age World, when Khoi bushman called these caves home. See how they lived as you visit Klipgat Cave, a World Heritage Site, and snap some breathtakingly beautiful photographs.
Bird Watching:
With 118 different bird species, Grootbos is uniquely positioned to offer both avid birders and curious novices a rich and varied birding experience. Glimpse the vivid orange of a Sunbird’s breast, see a Cape Sugarbird sipping on nectar or spot a rare Black Harrier.
SUGGESTED Cape Town: An Evening at GOLD Restaurant
Dining at Gold Restaurant is a celebration of food, flavours, family and friend, accompanied by live entertainment. This establishment honours African culinary traditions, while combining it with modern flavours and techniques.
On offer is a 14-dish tasting menu that is served in generous individual and shared portions. When dishes are brought to your table, the servers explain the country of origin, cooking techniques and spices to the guests.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Madikwe Game Reserve: Daily Safari Programme at Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge
After an early-morning wake-up call, you set off on your morning game drive. Madikwe is one of South Africa’s largest sanctuaries and has a rich biodiversity of mammals, such as Africa’s Big Five, cheetah, wild dog, brown and spotted hyena, oryx, eland, springbok & ostrich. You return to the lodge for a mid-morning brunch.
There is time between game drives to relax on the deck with a good book, do some bird-watching (Madikwe has more than 250 recorded species of bird) or, if you are feeling more energetic, do a game walk with your game ranger. High tea is served in the late afternoon, before you set off on an evening game drive through the untamed wilderness of the Kalahari Thornveld.
The late evening is when predators are more active and it is also an opportunity to see animals such as aardvark and caracal. You return to the lodge for a safari cuisine dinner in the open-air boma.
Victoria & Daniel C, Canada , 29th November 2019
We have had many ‘Holidays of a Lifetime’, but this trip organised by Anya was one of the best. She made sure everything was very slick, we did not have to think about a thing. The birthday surprise she organised for my husband was wonderful. We are already planning our next holiday with Pembury and Anya.