Victoria Falls Kruger Cape Town Cape Winelands – 3 nights Victoria Falls | 1 night White River | 2 nights Sabi Sand Game Reserve | 2 nights Timbavati Game Reserve | 3 nights Cape Town | 2 nights Franschhoek
Overview
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Trip Highlights
- Victoria Falls Magic
- Sabi Sand Game Reserve
- Abundant Birdlife
- Luxury Safari Experience
- Cape Town City & Table Mountain
- Ilala Lodge Zimbabwe
- Big Five Game Viewing
- Timbavati Game Reserve
- Cape Winelands Tastings & Tours
- Franschhoek Village Living
Itinerary
Upon arrival in Johannesburg you are met and assisted to your onward flight to Victoria Falls. Upon arrival in Victoria Falls Airport, you are met and transferred to your hotel for your 2 nights stay. There is time this afternoon to view the Falls.
Flight time: Johannesburg to Victoria Falls: approx. 1 ½ hour
Transfer time: Victoria Falls Airport to Ilala Lodge: approx. 20 mins
Besides being one of the seven natural wonders of the world and a World Heritage Site, Victoria Falls is the unchallenged adventure capital of Africa with more than 50 activities available.
The Victoria Falls is considered to be the largest waterfall in the world. See the mighty Zambezi River as it thunders over the 1700-metre-wide Victoria Falls and plunges 100 metres into a narrow gorge below. The great columns of spray rising from the tumultuous falls can be seen from 80 kilometres away on a clear day. If you are lucky enough to be there at full moon, a “moonbow” can be seen in the spray instead of the usual daylight rainbow.
This morning is at leisure to catch a last glimpse of the Falls, until you are picked up from the hotel and are transferred to Livingstone Airport to catch your direct flight to Nelspruit. You are met at Nelspruit Airport and are transferred to your country lodge in White River.
Transfer time: Ilala Lodge to Victoria Falls Airport: approx. 40 minutes
Flight time: Victoria Falls to Hazyview: approx. 2 ½ hour
Transfer time: Nelspruit Airport to Nut Grove Manor: approx. 40 minutes
This morning you are transferred from White River to your lodge in the Sabi Sand Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park. You have time to settle in at your lodge before you set off on your afternoon game drive.
Transfer time: Nut Grove Manor to Sabi Sand Reserve: approx. 2 ½ 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 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.
This morning after your morning game drive and brunch you check out of your lodge. you are met by your driver and transfer you by road to your luxury safari lodge in the Timbavati Game Reserve. Arriving at your lodge in the afternoon, you are met by the lodge members and a refreshing welcome drink before you are taken to your luxury tent for your 2-night stay.
You set off on your first afternoon game drive in the Timbavati Game Reserve.
Transfer time: Sabi Sand Lodge to Timbavati Lodge: approx. 2 hours
The Timbavati forms part of the 2 million hectare Greater Kruger National Park. It was the first private game reserve to be incorporated into the Kruger National Park and is part of one of Africa’s most innovative conservation partnership agreements. The Timbavati Game Reserve is 14 700 hectares (36 300 acres) and shares an unfenced boundary with Kruger National Park. Game Viewing is rich with a variety of animals.
After your morning game drive and breakfast you check out of your lodge. You are transferred by road to Hoedspruit Airport where you will check in for your flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival in Cape Town you are met and transferred to your hotel on the V&A Waterfront for your 3-night stay.
Transfer time: Timbavati Lodge to Hoedspruit Airport: approx 1½ hours
Flight time: Hoedspruit to Cape Town: approx. 2¾ hours
Transfer time: Cape Town Airport to Hotel: approx. 35 minutes
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.
The village of Franschhoek is at the heart of the Franschhoek Wine Route and is surrounded by craggy mountains and verdant vineyards. Many of the 42 wine estates on the Franschhoek Wine Route offer informative guided wine-tastings to the public as well as cellar tours or tours of the vineyards. Some of them also make cheese, chocolate and olive oil and offer tastings of these products alongside their wines. Many of them have on-site restaurants offering food that ranges from gastronomical delights to picnic hampers to enjoy under the oak trees. There is a hop-on hop- off Wine Tram, which visits some of these estates. Franschhoek village, South Africa’s “French Corner”, has a distinct French feel and is undoubtedly South Africa’s gourmet capital, with several of South Africa’s Top Ten restaurants. It is also filled with quirky shops.
This morning after breakfast you check out of your hotel. You bid this African Wonderland Farewell as you are met and transferred to Cape Town Airport.
Transfer time: Franschhoek Hotel to Cape Town Airport – approx. 1 ho
Zimbabwe | Victoria Falls | Ilala Lodge
Ilala Lodge offers distinguished yet affordable accommodation in a gracious and secluded ambiance. The decor evokes a bygone era of adventure and the quest of discovery in Africa. This small hotel is ideally situated and is the closest to the Victoria Falls as well as the town centre. The Victoria Falls National Park borders the front of property and wild animals often graze on the hotel lawns with the spray of the falls in the background.
Ilala Lodge offers 32 standard rooms and 2 deluxe suites. The rooms are all spacious with railway sleeper teak furnishings and patio doors leading onto either open lawn or a balcony where you are afforded a view of the spray of the falls from the upper level rooms. All standard rooms at Ilala Lodge have got 2 x ¾ beds, an ensuite bathroom, air-conditioning and an overhead fan. The deluxe suites have a king-size bed and have room for a child’s bed.
The in-house Palm Restaurant is recognised as one of the finest at the Falls. Relax around the swimming pool or enjoy a drink at the open-air bar.
South Africa | White River | Nut Grove Manor
Nut Grove Manor is a hidden gem in the Lowveld where you can unwind in a laid back, private family atmosphere steeped in history. Its location is conveniently close to the best that the region offers – whether you are a leisure or business traveller – and yet is just far enough from the beaten path to offer peace and quiet. Our lovely subtropical garden is quite legendary for its tranquility and the panoramic views surrounding the property make this hideaway something truly special.
Nut Grove Manor offers both bed and breakfast and self-catering accommodation. It is close to many Lowveld attractions like the Kruger National Park and world-class facilities like the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport. Click here for a taste of all the attractions that await you in the area.
At Nut Grove Manor, we strive to give our guests so much more than just a room for the night. We believe in personal service and attention to the little details that will make your stay unforgettable.
South Africa | 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.
South Africa | Timbavati Game Reserve | Simbavati River Lodge
Simbavati River Lodge is an intimate and friendly camp built on the banks of the Nhlaralumi River. Shaded by age-old Jackalberry and Leadwood trees, Simbavati is warm and welcoming, with a generous contemporary design.
Guest common areas offer a generously proportioned open-air lounge, bar, boma (outdoor dining area) and extensive decks with breathtaking views overlooking the Nhlaralumi River where regular wildlife sightings take place and guests can unwind. Accommodation is provided in luxury tented rooms or thatched chalets, all with en-suite bathrooms and private decks. The luxurious tented accommodation offers generous bush or water views from your own private viewing deck. Tents are spaced adequately far apart to ensure privacy, and they have all of the amenities to ensure a luxurious and comfortable stay.
Simbavati River Lodge is a child-friendly safari camp with three family chalets available, each with two separate bedrooms sharing one bathroom. One of the family chalets can accommodate five people, whilst the other two family chalets can accommodate four persons. There is a children’s activity room with a selection of toys/board games. Children will receive an activity booklet and coloured pencils on arrival. Children under the age of 13 will be taken to look at tracks and signs in the bush by a tracker. Board games and books available in the lounge area.
Early morning and evening game drives are conducted by experienced rangers and Shangaan trackers in open 4×4 vehicles, offering excellent photographic opportunities. The Timbavati is also home to the world-famous “White Lions of Timbavati”. White cubs have been born into the resident prides on Simbavati and there is an excellent chance of spotting these “ghost lions” during game drives. Between game drives you have time to unwind. The lounge area is the perfect place to relax on a comfortable couch with a book, or you can enjoy an afternoon siesta in your room.
South Africa | Cape Town | The Commodore Hotel
The Commodore Hotel is a nautically themed, 4-star hotel at Cape Town’s popular Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. With views of Table Mountain, Robben Island, the Harbour and the Atlantic Ocean, The Commodore is Legacy Hotels’ flagship hotel in Cape Town. Stylish accommodation, quality service and a tranquil setting have ensured that guests return year after year.
As the name suggests, the nautical theme is carried throughout the hotel, including the 150-seater Clipper Restaurant, which offers an array of seafood dishes. The menu is varied, with influences from around the globe. There is also a stylish cocktail bar & lounge. The Commodore is spacious enough to accommodate 236 rooms. They have a fully-equipped gymnasium with sauna and steam room, as well as a pool deck and terrace. Wellness and rejuvenating treatments are on offer in the in-house spa.
The Commodore is in the heart of the bustling Waterfront precinct and is an easy stroll from a host of fine restaurants and trendy shops.
South Africa | Franschhoek | Avondrood Guest House
Built in 1870 and sprinkled with ornate wrought-iron decorative ‘broekie lace’, Avondrood is a much-loved 5-bedroom guesthouse set in a massive, leafy garden in the heart of Franschhoek, South Africa’s gourmet hub. Dripping in thoughtfully-selected art – including a whimsical elephant statue at the cerulean swimming pool – Avondrood manages to combine gracious, old-school living with modern charm and convenience.
The Standard Deluxe room, like all rooms, has an extra-length, king-sized bed and is conveniently situated in the main house. All rooms at Avondrood are done in a restful ‘country-casual’ style and have air conditioning, LDC TVs with CD / DVD players, iPod docking stations and hairdryers. The spacious en suite bathrooms have cosy under-floor heating, free-standing tubs, Hans Grohe Rain Dance showers and aromatic rooibos (red bush tea) amenities.
With an unbeatable location that is within strolling distance of Franschhoek’s best eateries, art galleries, boutiques and off-beat, family-run shops.
SUGGESTED Victoria Falls | View the Falls
As you approach the Falls and hear the water pounding and witness the vapour rising, you quickly understand why local tribesman called the Falls “Mosi-oa-Tunya” (the smoke that thunders) and why the explorer David Livingstone exclaimed that a scene “so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight”. The great columns of spray rising from the tumultuous falls can be seen from 80 kilometres away on a clear day.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Victoria Falls | Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River
The Ra-Ikane is a small luxury cruise boat that is out-fitted to suggest, in exquisite detail, an ambiance of a bygone era. This cruise boat is exclusive (14 guests only) and personalised – period decor, historic memorabilia, fine cuisine and refreshments offer a level of comfort and grace unsurpassed on the Zambezi. As afternoon fades into twilight, animals come down to the river to drink as you go by.
SUGGESTED Victoria Falls | Chinotimba Township Tour
The word Chinotimba describes the roar of the water from the mighty Victoria Falls in the local Nambya language. The Nambya and the Tonga people are the original people of the Victoria Falls area. The majority of people in Victoria Falls live in the Chinotimba township, which has a population of approximately 60 000 people.
During the Township Tour, guests will have an opportunity to observe township-life – from the oldest houses to the taverns, the local market and churches. During a visit to the Chinotimba Primary School clients are introduced to the school headmaster – he or someone assigned will take the guests on a tour of the school after which the children may sing a song (Please note that school visits are subject to the schools being open).
INCLUDED IN PRICE Sabi Sand Game Reserve | Daily Safari Programme at Arathusa Safari Lodge
The Timbavati Reserve forms part of the Greater Kruger and lies nestled between the Kruger National Park on the east, the Klaserie and Umbabat Private Nature Reserves in the north and the Thornybush Private Nature Reserve in the west. As there are no fences between Kruger National Park and the Timbavati, the reserve enjoys a wide variety of game, including the big five.
Game viewing is exceptional, with an abundance of elephant, buffalo, kudu, zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, impala, waterbuck and warthog, together with their attendant predators: lion, leopard, cheetah and hyena.
Simbavati River & Hilltop Lodge offer game drives in the early morning and evening when animals are most active. Game drives are conducted by experienced field guides and Shangaan trackers in open 4X4 vehicles, with excellent photographic opportunities. You traverse over 12,000 hectares of the big-5 game country, with lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo as well as other species such as kudu, zebra, warthog, giraffe and monkey. Nocturnal animals, including the big cats, are regularly sighted on night drives. Bird viewing is spectacular, with over 360 recorded species including various eagles, vultures, kingfishers, woodpeckers, buzzards, herons, egrets, owls, weavers. The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve is one of the few places in the world where you have the opportunity to see the unique white lion in their natural environment. The resident lion prides of Timbavati carry the recessive gene “chinchillia’ that is responsible for this unusual anomaly. Two white lions were born into resident prides near Simbavati, and guests have a great chance of seeing these cubs while visiting Simbavati.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Timbavati Game Reserve | Daily Safari Programme at Simbavati River Lodge
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 veranda. 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.
The Timbavati is brimming with various species of fowl and beast, including the sought-after Big Five, namely lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino. The reserve also boasts over 40 other species of mammals. Creatures of every shape and size abound during the day, and by night visitors to the reserve are likely to see smaller, nocturnal mammals – such as porcupines, servals, civets and genets.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Cape Town | Half Day City and Table Mountain Tour
A tour guide takes you on a city tour of one of the world’s most beautiful cities. You will visit the historic Castle and the Bo-Kaap Malay Quarter with its narrow cobbled streets and colourful mosques. You will also visit District Six, site of forced removals during the Apartheid era. You view the Houses of Parliament, the City Hall and the Slave Lodge and will enjoy a walk through the Company Gardens. Weather-permitting, you will ride the cable car up Table Mountain to enjoy the view over Cape Town and across Table Bay to Robben Island. If the weather is inclement, you will be taken on a scenic drive up Signal Hill. You are transferred to the Jetty at the V&A Waterfront where you board a ferry to Robben Island, once the prison where Nelson Mandela lived. You are met at Robben Island by an ex-prisoner and taken on a tour of the island. You then board the ferry back to the V&A Waterfront and back to your hotel later that afternoon.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Cape Town | Full Day Cape Point Tour
You are collected from your hotel by a tour guide and taken on a drive along the Atlantic seaboard via glamorous Clifton to the quaint seaside village of Hout Bay. We continue via the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive to Cape Point. Looking at this dramatic promontory jutting into the sea gives one an idea why early sailors nicknamed it the Cape of Storms. We then follow the coastline northwards via Simonstown, where you can visit the penguin colony of Boulders Beach. We also visit Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, which is dedicated to the extraordinary variety of plants found in the Cape Floral Kingdom. A leisurely drive through the leafy southern suburbs will bring us back to the city bowl in the late afternoon.
INCLUDED IN PRICE Franschhoek | Full Day Cape Winelands Tour
You enjoy a full-day tour of the Cape Winelands, with its backdrop of majestic mountain ranges and lush valleys today. We stop for wine tastings at a minimum of two wineries and you have the chance to purchase some of the wines you have tasted. We visit Stellenbosch, the “town of oaks” for a short guided tour of South Africa’s second oldest town. A scenic drive over the Helshoogte Pass (Hell’s Heights) takes us to the Franschhoek Valley. French Huguenots settled in the Franschhoek Valley in the late seventeenth century, seeking refuge from religious persecution in Europe and bringing with them precious root-stock to establish the wine-growing industry in South Africa.
SUGGESTED Franschhoek | Wine Tram
The Franschhoek Wine Tram hop-on hop-off tour is one of the best ways to discover the true essence of the Franschhoek Valley – picturesque vineyards, breath-taking scenery, warm hospitality, world-class cuisine, fine wines and a 300 year history.
Passengers aboard the hop-on hop-off tour will experience a unique and leisurely way to see the Franschhoek Valley as they journey through rolling vineyards in an open-side tram and open-air tram-bus stopping in at some of South Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates. A combination of tram and tram-bus transports passengers around a loop of stops allowing them to hop-off at each stop and experience the activities on offer, be it wine tasting, a cellar tour, lunch or simply a stroll through the vineyards and when they are ready, hop-on to continue the tour.
