Sabi Sand Johannesburg Zanzibar Cape Town Celebration – 4 nights Sabi Sand | 1 night Johannesburg | 5 nights Zanzibar | 4 nights Cape Town
Tour Consultant's Overview
James and Paula were referred to us by friends who had travelled the previous year. They emailed me about looking to visit Africa for their honeymoon and had 2 weeks for their trip. In the initial email, they were undecided on doing the safari in South Africa or East Africa, as they also wanted to spend a few nights in Zanzibar. After sending through a few options for their trip with East Africa and South Africa safari, they decided on Sabi Sand Game Reserve and spent 4 nights there. Due to flights up to Zanzibar, we added in a night in Johannesburg. Ending the tour with 5 nights on the tropical island of Zanzibar, they ended their trip in Cape Town.
Trip Highlights
- Sabi Sand Game Reserve
- Zanzibar Beach Accommodation
- Cape Town Luxury Living
- Big Five Game Viewing
- Zanzibar Beach & City Adventures
- Cape Town City Touring
Upon arrival at OR Tambo Airport, you will be met in the arrivals hall by our representative from Wilro Tours, who will hand over your travel documents and assist you through to the Domestic Departures, where you check in for your flight. On arrival, you will meet your driver and from here you are transferred to Idube Game Lodge, where you spend four nights.
You check in and enjoy High Tea and before setting out on your afternoon Game Drive. You return to the lodge for a sumptuous bush dinner.
Flight time – Johannesburg to Skukuza: ± 1 hour
Transfer time – Skukuza Airport to your lodge: ± 1 to 1½ hours
Forming part of the Greater Kruger National Park, the Sabi Sand Reserve has no fences and the wildlife is able to cross freely between the Sabi Sands and the rest of the Greater Kruger National Park. The safari experience in the Sabi Sand is highly personalised because game drive vehicles have exclusive traversing rights in their area. The Sabi Sand Reserve is a remarkable natural sanctuary known for its exceptionally high concentration of animal and bird life. Close contact encounters are guaranteed as the animals are not threatened by the presence of vehicles thanks to sound conservation management policies. Safaris are led by experienced rangers coupled with local Shangaan trackers.
With exceptional sightings of leopard (usually the most elusive of cats), lion, rhino, elephant and buffalo during game drives – visitors are never lacking in exciting photographic content. Nowhere in South Africa will one find a wildlife experience quite like the one experienced within the Sabi Sand Reserve. Sharing a 50km (31.25 miles) unfenced border with the Kruger National Park, this immense (65 000 hectare/ 153 000 acre) and diverse tract of land is home to The Big Five (lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant), and much much more. This area is also in the process of being further enlarged within the Peace Park concept with an expected integration and amalgamation with protected areas in Mozambique, and eventually Zimbabwe.
Two rivers supply the game reserve with a valuable water source. The Sand River flows through the reserve for 50km (31 miles) from north west to south east whilst the Sabie River flows on the southern boundary. The sustenance of these rivers ensures that this area enjoys one of the highest and most bio-diverse wildlife populations of any area in Africa. Over two hundred different species live in abundance, whilst the ever changing bird life provides even the most experienced ornithologist with rare finds. Such is the environment that the wildlife, save for the migratory birds, remain in their territories all year round.
After your morning game drive and breakfast, you bid farewell to this African wonderland. You are met at reception for your transfer to Nelspruit Airport for your flight to Johannesburg. From here, you make your way to OR Tambo City Lodge, which is located next to the airport. It is a five minute walk to the hotel. The evening is at leisure.
Transfer time – Idube Game Lodge to Nelspruit Airport: ± 2 hours
Flight time – Nelspruit to Johannesburg: ± 1 hour
After breakfast and check out, you make your way to International Departures at OR Tambo Airport. We suggest arriving two hours or more, for check in for your flight to Zanzibar. On arrival, your driver will meet you in the arrivals hall and from here, you are transferred to Fumba Beach Lodge, where you spend five nights. The afternoon is at leisure.
Flight time – Johannesburg to Zanzibar: ± 3½ hours
Transfer time – Zanzibar Airport to Fumba Beach Lodge: ± 30 to 60 minutes
The next four days are at leisure and you can explore the Island of Zanzibar. The “spice island” of Zanzibar – off the coast of mainland Tanzania – is without doubt the number one beach location in East Africa. It is an archipelago of islands with tropical white-sand beaches, fringed by coral reefs, greened by lush, fertile plantations, and with an incredible history and a fascinating culture. The warm tropical air is suffused with the intoxicating aroma of fruit and spices. The islands produce cloves, nutmeg, cinnamon, and black pepper and, for this reason, the Zanzibar archipelago is sometimes called the Spice Islands.
The main island of Zanzibar and the other islands, which have exotic names like Mafia Island, Pemba and Mnemba, are a rustic, unspoilt paradise, enabling you to experience an exotic and luxurious Indian Ocean island holiday without the crowds. The coastline is dotted with resorts, where the focus is on snorkelling and diving. The crystal clear tropical waters surrounding the islands of Zanzibar are home to some of the world’s most diverse sea life and colourful reefs. At Mnemba Atoll Marine Park, turtles are a common sight. Dolphins are seen on almost all boat trips and the majestic whale sharks migrate past the island twice a year.
The monsoon winds of the Indian Ocean enabled a triangular trade route to spring up at the beginning of the 11th Century between Zanzibar & mainland Africa, Arabia & Persia, and India. Many Arabs settled in Zanzibar and intermarried with the local people, leaving the archipelago with a long history and a rich cultural mix. Stone Town, the historical centre is a World Heritage Site and is claimed to be the only functioning ancient town in East Africa. With its labyrinth of alleyways, charming city centre and ancient harbour, this is worth a visit.
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel. Your driver will meet you in reception for your transfer to Zanzibar Airport where you connect with your flight to Johannesburg. From here you make your way through Customs and Immigration and then onto the Domestic Departures area for your flight to Cape Town. On arrival at Cape Town Airport, you will be met by your driver from Paradise Tours and from here, transferred to your hotel.
Transfer time – Fumba Beach Lodge to Zanzibar Airport: ± 30 to 60 minutes
Flight time – Zanzibar to Johannesburg: ± 3 to 3½ hours
Transfer time – Cape Town Airport to your hotel: ± 30 minutes
The next three days are at leisure in Cape Town and you can 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. Cape Town regularly tops many lists of world must-visit destinations and Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain has recently been voted one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Cosmopolitan and fashionable, the relaxed atmosphere and pavement café culture give Cape Town a Southern European feel – but with a distinctive African twist.
After an early breakfast, you check out. Your driver will meet you in reception where you are transferred to the Cape Town Airport for your flight to Johannesburg. From here you make your way to International Departures, where you check in for your flight home.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve: Idube Game Lodge
Found in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, Idube is right in the heart of South Africa’s premier wildlife conservation area – the Greater Kruger Park. The Big 5 and many more beautiful animals and more than 300 species of birds can be viewed up close from open Landrovers, or seen on guided walks. The thatched bar and entertainment areas are beautiful focal points where guests gather in between game drives. Warthog and nyala families play on the grass surrounding the chalets and lodge, and can be viewed from your private deck.
The four-star lodge offers 10 en-suite chalets hidden among shady trees, and two luxury suites, all with private viewing decks. The beds are artfully draped in mosquito nets, which add a feeling of African romance. All chalets have a private outdoor shower that will give you a truly African experience, and the rooms are air-conditioned. Another way to cool off is to have a float in the pool, refreshing drink in hand, as you watch the nearby game and birds.
Each meal at Idube is a special occasion – breakfast and lunch are enjoyed out on the open air dining deck, and dinner is celebrated in the lantern-lit boma or out at the bush venue. There, you will enjoy the quiet sounds of the bush – still very much alive with all of its inhabitants – until drums and singing fill the air as Idube celebrates the delicious food the way only Africa can. The meals are artful combinations of African flavours and the latest gourmet trends, and game meats are often on the menu. Enjoy two game drives a day, where you can expect to see magnificent animals in their natural habitat and enjoy the one-of-a-kind beauty of the African bush as you stop for tea, coffee, or sundowners.
Johannesburg: OR Tambo City Lodge
Based at Africa’s busiest airport, City Lodge at OR Tambo Airport will provide business and leisure travellers with “home away from home” accommodation that is ideal for those commuting to and from Johannesburg and perfect for those who require immediate access to the airport.
The hotel boasts boardroom and conference facilities, a fitness room as well as a deck with a pool and a large commercial area with a coffee shop. There is a sociable bar where you can while away an evening. The 303 spacious air-conditioned rooms have either queen or twin beds and en-suite bathrooms.
OR Tambo Airport offers a number of services from banking to a wide range of retailers, so whether it’s a good book or a scrumptious meal, the airport’s facilities have everything you need.
Zanzibar: Fumba Beach Lodge
Fumba Beach Lodge is a small scale, peaceful hideaway set on one of Zanzibar’s most secluded beaches. With only 26 free standing spacious cottages, the essence of Fumba Beach Lodge is privacy, space, relaxation, nature and attention to detail.
Fumba Beach Lodge offers well-designed elegance, with friendly first class service. At 30 minutes from Zanzibar’s capital, Stone Town, the lodge is far away from all the busy tourist areas. This is a perfect venue to enjoy the tranquility, and dream, swim, dive, walk amongst tropical gardens, or have a special romantic occasion in one of the many secluded spots. On the property we’ve created several private decks, veranda’s and little hideaways, to ensure a quiet and private environment for the ultimate romantic holiday.
The lodge is located on the Fumba Beach peninsula, in the Menai Bay Conservation Area. This is both a large marine haven, and an eco-project. The Fumba peninsula is designated an area of outstanding natural beauty since 1998, by the World Wild Life Federation.
Cape Town: Winchester Mansions
Winchester Mansions Hotel is an iconic Cape Dutch building and is the leading sea front hotel on Sea Point’s Promenade facing the Atlantic Ocean. It is two minutes’ drive from the trendy Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and is unique amongst Cape Town hotels for its spectacular seaside location. This charming and gracious hotel offers its guests grace, style and contemporary flair. It is a multiple winner of the “Best Luxury Hotel” category at the annual AA Travel Guide Awards. The rooms are spacious and elegant and all of them have either sea or mountain views. There are 51 classic or contemporary loft style rooms and 25 suites, including one presidential suite.
Sip sundowners on the terrace whilst viewing the spectacular ocean sunsets and enjoy signature dishes from Harvey’s Restaurant. The Winchester’s beautiful colonnaded Courtyard, built in the style of an Italian piazza, is a tranquil oasis. Encircled by palm trees and water fountains, it makes a perfect setting for a romantic dinner under the stars. You can relax around the decked heated swimming pool and there is an in-house spa offering health and beauty treatments. There is a complimentary shuttle service between the hotel and the V&A Waterfront. Children of all ages are welcome at the Winchester Mansions. A large variety of amenities and services are available to ensure a delightful stay for little guests.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Sabi Sand Game Reserve: Daily Safari Programme at Idube Game Lodge
Upon arrival at your safari lodge you are given a welcome drink and your safari experience will be explained to you by your lodge host. There will be time to settle in before afternoon High Tea followed by your first game drive. 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, particularly the leopard for which this area is renowned. You return to your lodge in time for a sumptuous safari cuisine dinner. The next day after a light snack you are taken on a morning game drive. You return to the lodge for a grand brunch. There is time to relax around the sunny pool, do some bird-watching from the observation deck or read a book in the peace of your room’s private verandah. If you are feeling more active, you can go on a bush walk with your ranger. After High Tea you set off on another evening game drive, returning again in time for dinner. On your day of departure, you will do a morning game drive and will leave the lodge after brunch.
SUGGESTED Zanzibar: Half Day Activities and Excursions
Stone Town City Tour:
Stone town and its buildings are full of history and stories of the old times on Zanzibar, when Sultans, Arabs, Europeans and Zanzibaris wrote the history of this beautiful island. You will visit the Anglican Cathedral and the Slave markets, the Palace of the Sultans, Tip Tip’s House, the Old Arabic Fort, Forodhani Park and of course the famous Zanzibar Doors in our petite little streets. We will take you to the fruit and vegetable market. So be ready for a walk through the long history of Zanzibar and its numerous rulers.
Butterfly Centre and Jozani Forest:
A guided tour beginning with a visit to the beautiful Zanzibar Butterfly Centre near Jozani- Chwaka Bay National Park. It contains all native species to Zanzibar. Butterfly farming in Zanzibar requires intact forest, thus providing an economic incentive to conserve habitats. Feed the butterflies and watch them fly close at hand while enjoying the peace and quiet of nature. From here you are driven 3 minutes up the road to the Jozani Forest.
During a guided journey through the forest you will quickly learn about the different species of monkeys unique to Zanzibar (and yes, without a thumb). After your forest tour and a short hop to the other side of the national park, there is an opportunity to uncover the magical world of the Zanzibari Mangroves.
Dhow Sunset Cruise from Stone town:
Sunset Cruise on a traditional wooden dhow – enjoy the view of stone town from the water Enjoy the world famous sunset of Zanzibar’s West Coast on a traditional wooden dhow. This 2 hours boat trip starting from Stone Town is a must do in your Zanzibar stay. If the wind allows the crew, they will sail you like the traditional fisher boats while you enjoy the sunset and the skyline of our beautiful town.
SUGGESTED Zanzibar: Full Day Activities and Excursions
Spice Farm, Stone Town City and Zanzibar History Tour:
Your guide will introduce you to all the buildings of interest and famous viewpoints. Stone town and its buildings are full of history and stories of the old times on Zanzibar, when Sultans, Arabs, Europeans and Zanzibaris wrote the history of this beautiful island. You will visit the Anglican Cathedral and the Slave markets, the Palace of the Sultans, Tip Tip’s House, the Old Arabic Fort, Forodhani Park and of course the famous Zanzibar Doors in our petite little streets.
Once you leave Stone town you head out to a spice farm for an education in the cultivation and production of many of the islands spices. You wouldn’t believe it if you haven’t seen it yourself. Did you know that the Cinnamon Tree has three different smells? After you have finished your tour, fully packed with presents from nature, you can enjoy your Swahili cooked lunch and have time to buy spices, soaps and crèmes which are all hand made by the community within the farm. You are transferred back to your hotel in the afternoon.
Boat Cruise & Snorkelling from Fumba to Menai Bay and Kwale Island:
Take a full day trip on a wooden dhow. Stop off for snorkelling stops at Menai Bay and then cross to Kwale Island for more perfect snorkelling opportunities. On this secluded uninhabited Island, you will enjoy the lunch fit for Kings from an Island in the Indian Ocean, with slipper lobsters, grilled fish, calamari, chicken and rice, and many more vegetables. But that’s not everything! After your main course we will start a fruit journey with you with up to 15 different fruits.
SUGGESTED Cape Town: V&A Waterfront & Two Oceans Aquarium
V&A Waterfront:
South Africa’s most visited destination, the V&A Waterfront, is situated at the heart of Cape Town’s working harbour. Home to 22 landmarks, its rich and varied history can be traced back to 1654, when Jan van Riebeeck built the first jetty as part of his mission to establish a refreshment station for the Dutch East India Company. You can join a walking historical tour of the V&A Waterfront (pre booking is advised or you can do a self-walk tour – maps available at the info centre). The V&A Waterfront is South Africa’s trendiest shopping precinct and is full of great restaurants and bars.
Two Oceans Aquarium:
The southern tip of the African continent is the meeting place of two mighty and bountiful oceans, the warm Indian and the cold Atlantic. The Two Oceans Aquarium on the V&A Waterfront showcases the incredible diversity of marine life found in these two oceans. The Aquarium is one of the top tourist attractions in Cape Town and over 3000 living sea animals, including sharks, fishes, seals, turtles and penguins can be seen in this spectacular underwater nature reserve. A semi-tunnel which hugs the perimeter of the predator tank affords close-up views of the inhabitants as they glide past overhead. It is also possible to do a shark cage dive in the shark tank.
SUGGESTED Cape Town: Full Day Cape Point Tour
You depart from your hotel and travel along the spectacular Atlantic Seaboard. You drive through the coastal suburbs of Sea Point, Bantry Bay and Clifton. Here you can stop for a photo opportunity of Table Mountain’s impressive Twelve Apostles. Continue past Bakoven and Llandudno which are marked by shipwrecks which fell foul to the infamous Cape winter storms, then on to the scenic fishing village of Hout Bay.
You will also head over the 600m heights of Chapman’s Peak Drive (if open), which is without a doubt one of the world’s most spectacular mountain passes. You will also have a chance to watch Southern Right Whales frolicking just offshore from June to November.
You continue to the Cape Nature Reserve on the Cape Peninsula. Explore the rocky coastline and unique Cape Fynbos vegetation which is home to unique birdlife such as African Black Oystercatchers and Cape Sugarbirds amongst others. The opportunity is also there to view small animals such as the Cape Mountain Zebra, Bontebok, ostrich and Baboon as we enter the Cape of Good Hope National Park. Climb to the famous Cape Point Lighthouse to capture the magical vistas of False Bay, and stop at the south western most point of Africa – the fabled Cape of Good Hope. A funicular is option you can take at Cape Point.
Enjoy lunch at the Two Oceans Restaurant or a restaurant in Simonstown or Kalk Bay. You can visit Boulders Beach for an exciting close up encounter with African Penguins. Drive through the historical naval village of Simons town and over yet another spectacular mountain pass; Boyes Drive, where you will take in views of the quaint fishing harbour at Kalk Bay as well as the seaside villages of St James and Muizenberg. Visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens – with time to browse these magnificent gardens set on the slopes of Table Mountain before returning to the city.
James & Paula , UK, 27th May 2019
Kerry organised us the MOST wonderful trip! We got to see plenty of wildlife in the Sabi Sand on our big five safaris. We loved our accommodation here and it definitely did exceed our expectations. Kerry suggested we spend five nights in the middle of our holiday in Zanzibar and this was a fabulous suggestion! We relaxed and soaked up the beach living before we headed to Cape Town. We thoroughly enjoyed Cape Town and felt well rested for the flight home and like we had been living in luxury for the whole time. Thank you so much Kerry – We are so thankful for all you did. We will be back soon!
