Johannesburg City Sabi Sand Mauritius – 2 nights Johannesburg | 3 nights Sabi Sand | 1 night Johannesburg | 5 nights Mauritius
Tour Consultant's Overview
Ewan and his new wife were interested in spending at least four nights in Mauritius but also wanted an authentic safari experience. I suggested that we star their honeymoon trip in Johannesburg before flying to the Kruger National Park for their Big Five game viewing experience. They loved their days on safari and found Arathusa Safari Lodge luxurious and welcoming as a base camp. For the Mauritian part of the holiday we were able to find a great deal on five nights at the Victoria Beachcomber Resort and Spa. This is a premier beach holiday resort offering so many attractions which include arts, culture, history and adventure beach activities or just relaxing at one of the pools or beautiful beach areas.
Trip Highlights
- Johannesburg City Living
- Arathusa Safari Lodge
- Abundant Birdlife
- Adventure Activities
- Johannesburg & Soweto Tour
- Big Five Game Viewing
- Mauritius Beach Living
- Mauritian Arts & Culture
Itinerary
On arrival in Johannesburg, you are met by a representative who will hand over your travel documents and transfer you to your hotel for your overnight stay. The evening is at leisure to relax from your flight.
Transfer time – Johannesburg airport to your hotel: approx. 40 minutes
Johannesburg is South Africa’s largest city and is the financial and commercial capital of Africa. It is in this fast-paced metropolis that the country’s radical political and social transformation is most evident – this is the `Rainbow Nation’ at work.
This morning you are transferred from your hotel to Johannesburg airport where you check in for your flight to Hoedspruit. Upon arrival at Hoedspruit Airport you are met by our representative and transferred by road to your lodge in the Sabi Sands Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park. You have time to settle in at your lodge before you set off on the afternoon game drive in the Sabi Sands.
Transfer time: Johannesburg hotel to OR Tambo airport – approx. 40 minutes
Flight time: Johannesburg to Hoedspruit airport – approx. 1 hour
Transfer time: Hoedspruit to your lodge in the Sabi Sand – approx. 2½ 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 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.
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.
This morning you enjoy your last game drive and brunch before bidding farewell to this African wonderland. You are collected from the reception at your lodge and transferred to Hoedspruit airport where you check in for your flight to Johannesburg.
On arrival in Johannesburg, you make your way to your hotel near the airport for your overnight stay.
Transfer time: Sabi Sand to Hoedspruit – approx. 3 hours
Flight time: Hoedspruit to Johannesburg – approx. 1 hour
Transfer time: Johannesburg airport to airport hotel – hotel shuttle/walk
After breakfast, you make your way to the airport where you check in for your international flight to Mauritius.
On arrival Upon arrival in Mauritius, you are met by your lodge representative and transferred to your resort for your five night stay.
Transfer time: Airport hotel to OR Tambo International Airport – hotel shuttle/walk
Flight time: Johannesburg to Mauritius – approx. 4 hours
Transfer time: Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport to Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa- approx. 1 hour
In the heart of the Indian Ocean, 800 km to the east of Madagascar, lies the crown jewel of the Indian Ocean – the majestic island of Mauritius. Mauritius is surrounded by shimmering lagoons fringed by golden beaches. It is a haven where lush vegetation blends into the cobalt blue of the ocean.
Today, the diversity of its population brings a new dimension to the spectacular scenery of the island. The traveller will not only experience the legends of India, but also the subtle shades of China. Discover a small piece of Africa, whilst still benefiting from European-style living. The official language is English but almost everyone speaks French and Mauritian Creole, a very colourful dialect. The different cultures and religions co-exist in harmony. This results in numerous religious festivals, varied cooking, and bright displays of different dress.
This morning you are treated to your final breakfast at your resort. You bid farewell to the jewel of the Indian Ocean, you are met and transferred by your resort representative to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport for your direct flight to Johannesburg.
Upon arrival in Johannesburg, you make your way to the International departures terminal where you connect your flight home.
Transfer time: Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa to Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport: approx. 1 hour
Johannesburg: The Peech Boutique Hotel
With design and comfort the core essense of The Peech DNA, combined with flawless service and an illustrious history of satisfied guests, this marks Johannesburg’s top rated Boutique hotel as a landmark hotel. An icon. The Peech was originally a private residence built in 1950’s and a family home for more than 40 years. Purchased by James Peech in 2002, and first opening it’s doors as The Peech Hotel in 2004, the property has since been restored and developed to become Johannesburg’s most iconic boutique hotel, offering five different room types, two restaurants and two acres of lush gardens.
The Luxury Rooms are their newest rooms and are spread throughout the hotel’s lush gardens. They feature oak floors, huge walk-in rain dance showers and large patios. The well-appointed Classic Rooms offer lovely views across their lush gardens and pool area. Each room has either a private balcony or patio for guests to relax and enjoy the beautiful central gardens. The heritage rooms are located upstairs in the property’s original residence and adjacent to each other. They’re designed around the character of the old house, and both have beautiful garden views. The Suites are their most spacious rooms and are located in an especially quiet part of the gardens for the ultimate tranquil urban hideaway. They feature extra large bathrooms and an expansive, open-plan living space. The 2 Bedroom Villa offers a Master and Second Bedroom, both with ensuite bathrooms, connected via a central lounge/TV area. Features a private outdoor space, with al fresco dining area and water feature.
The Peech features two restaurants on the property. One is reserved for hotel guests only and serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. The second, Basalt, is open to the public for dinners Tuesday to Saturday. Bookings are essential at Basalt.
Sabi Sand Game Reserve: Arathusa Safari Lodge
Arathusa Safari Lodge is a jewel within the heart of the Sabi Sand Reserve. The camp is an intimate one, completely open-plan and designed to harmoniously blend with the adjacent waterhole and African bush. The lodge flanks the bank of a large waterhole (approximately 250m x 150m) allowing for a 180 degree view of the water. An infinity swimming pool overlooks the waterhole and is the perfect spot for wildlife viewing on a smoldering African summer’s afternoon. Massive herds of buffalo, antelope and elephant families gather at the waterhole and there is also a resident herd of hippos. 13 thatched suites are within the camp’s perimeter. Each has a bathroom en-suite (with bath and separate indoor and outdoor showers), and a verandah. Meal times at Arathusa are a sociable affair. Guests are treated to sumptuous dishes, fresh produce and home baked confectionary.
In addition to the morning and evening game drives, unique walking safaris are offered daily giving guest the opportunity of discovering the hidden treasures of the region. Arathusa prides itself on its leopard viewing. As leopards are territorial, their regular appearances in the area allow their movements to be plotted. Many of the animals become familiar and are easily recognized by the rangers. Large herds of buffalo numbering in excess of 300 are often encountered. Elephants are also seen in large numbers. There are various lion prides in the area, as well as a few nomadic males. General “lowveld” game are abundant in this section of the Sabi Sand Reserve, including giraffe, zebra, warthog, impala and more. Between game drives, lazy hours can be spent in the sparkling pool or having a massage at the Nature Spa.
Johannesburg: City Lodge OR Tambo
Based at Africa’s busiest airport, City Lodge at OR Tambo Airport will provide business and leisure travelers 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.
Mauritius: Victoria Beachcomber Resort & Spa
Breathtakingly beautiful public areas are one of the exceptional features that define this resort. Another is the fresh feel, clean lines and modern design of the lobby, lounge, bar and restaurant areas. There’s no way of guessing the kinds of visitors who specifically prefer Victoria, because it quickly becomes the number one resort for every kind of guest, be it they families, honeymooners or conference-goers.
The rooms are among the largest and most stylish in the 4-star category on the island. The rooms are divided into ground floor rooms, first floor rooms and second floor room. Each room offers a large sleeping area together with adjacent sitting area, air-conditioning, TV with selected channels, mini bar, furnished balcony and en-suite bathroom with double basins, separate bath, shower and toilet.
Aside from the chic design of the lobby, you can stand in the entrance of the resort and gaze out over the pool and across to the sea as it stretches into a golden horizon.
Sunsets are spectacular in Mauritius. At Victoria, they’re mesmerising. This resort has particularly excellent facilities for honeymoon couples with three restaurants that ensure culinary variety with every dining experience.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Johannesburg: Full Day City Tour
This morning you are collected from your hotel for a full day tour of the and taken on a full day guided tour of the city of Johannesburg and Soweto. Entrance fees for Carlton Centre, Hector Pieterson & Nelson Mandela’s former home are included. Enjoy lunch at a local tavern. You are returned to you hotel later in the day. Entrance fees are included, with meals and refreshments for your own cost.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Sabi Sand Game Reserve: Daily Safari Programme at Arathusa
The Sabi Sand Reserve is part of the largest conservation area in South Africa and it is the oldest of all the private reserves. It was formed in 1950 and comprises of many privately owned game lodges, covering an area of 65 000 hectares (153 000 acres) of savannah thornveld. It is now part of the Greater Kruger National Park and there are no fences between them, so the game moves freely through this enormous natural reserve. This is one of South Africa’s most treasured natural sanctuaries. The Sabi Sand Reserve enjoys good quality viewing of leopard (the most elusive of predators), as well as elephant, lion, rhino, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and a vast variety of antelope and other species. In fact, there are more than 330 tree species, 45 fish species, 30 amphibian species, 110 reptile species, 500 bird species and 145 mammal species, including the Big Five.
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. 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 Mauritius: Culture and History
Mauritius has a diverse cultural history, here are some of the best sites to explore:
L’Aventure du Sucre: Travel back in time and visit this fully restored sugarcane factory. Explore the intriguing world of sugar production and how central it is to the island’s culture.
Casela Bird Park: No trip to an exotic island would be complete without marveling at its bird life. More than 2 500 birds, of 140 species, inhabit the Casela Bird Park. Among the specimens from five continents, the Mauritian pink pigeon is one of the rarest birds in the world. Choose a quad or a Segway to travel around the park on a guided excursion.
Pamplemousses Gardens: A colossal collection of indigenous and exotic plants, particularly the talipot palm, which blooms once in its 60-year lifetime – the Pamplemousses Gardens are a must.
Port Louis: The bustling capital of Mauritius, bursting with a colourful history and a soulful character. Port Louis reflects the cosmopolitan population that is Mauritius, with fantastic markets that exude the aroma of exotic spices and offer all sorts of treasures. For more high-end and designer finds, visit the Caudan Waterfront.
Escale Creole: Experience the very best of Mauritian hospitality at this table d’hôte, and taste the lively and vibrant flavours of genuine, homemade Creole cuisine.
SUGGESTED Mauritius: Adventure Activities
If you can tear yourself away from the beach to explore the island of Mauritius, you’re in for the adventure of a lifetime. Connect to the raw wonders of nature and discover secrets in deep ravines and towering volcanic peaks.
Join a tour at Eau Bleue Waterfalls for abseiling, mountain bike riding and kayaking. Hop on a ‘big cat’ for a day-cruise to the islands off the north of Mauritius, east to Ile aux Cerfs or west from Rivière Noire to Ile aux Bénitiers.
Indulge your spirit of adventure with quad biking expeditions in the lush hilltop greenery of Valriche to the south-west. True to Beachcomber style, smart two-seater quad bikes are perfect for an adrenaline-filled ride through the lush vegetation, over rivers and through streams at an exhilarating pace.
SUGGESTED Mauritius: Shopping Experiences
Since the country was declared a duty free destination, Mauritius has become one of the world’s most coveted shopping attractions. Luxury goods, designer clothing, cameras and electronics – shopping up a storm is much more fun at duty free prices! Some of the main shopping experiences are:
The Grand Bazaar in Grand Bay: Choose from row upon row of casual and formal clothing, beautiful linen, crafts and much more, at smile-worthy prices.
Floreal Square houses a Textile Museum and a café. Twelve factory and duty free shops will ensure you’re spoilt for choice of adult and children’s wear, homeware, silk, jewellery, handmade carpets and fine food.
The Mauritius Glass Gallery in Pont Fer Phoenix: So much more than a shopping hub, here you can watch as skilled craftsmen bring recycled glass back to life using traditional techniques.
Caudan Waterfront: A modern precinct known for its designer shops and duty free jewellery but also for its cosmopolitan craft market, covering two floors of spices, souvenirs, basketry and craftsmen at work.
Ewan M, Australia, 25th September 2019
We cannot thank you enough for making our honeymoon an absolute dream! We absolutely loved the taste of South Africa we got and were so thrilled that out itinerary could include four days of spectacular safaris – the wildlife was amazing and the accommodation was so comfortable, we really felt so at home. Mauritius was everything we hoped for and more! Thank you for all of the advice on Mauritius and what was on offer there – we had such a fantastic time exploring and relaxing before heading back to our busy lives. Thank you once again! We will be back!