Experience the contrasts of South Africa — from the lush green wine valleys of Franschhoek, to vibrant cities alive with history and the stunning barren landscapes of a private reserve in the Kalahari Desert hiding some of the most prized endangered species in the world.
- Be pampered at the luxurious and stylish Londolozi private safari camp
- Experience luxury rail travel onboard the legendary Blue Train
- Ascend Table Mountain by aerial cableway for stunning views of the city bowl and Table Bay
- Dine with a South African family in Cape Town
- Taste the best wines of the Winelands region at a private tasting
DAYS 1 – 3
Cape Town, South Africa
Upon arrival in Cape Town on Day 2, you will be met and transferred directly to your luxury hotel. Cape Town is steeped in rich history and is a cultural melting pot with a diverse and vibrant character. Explore modern Cape Town, with its extended seafront, underground malls and soaring skyscrapers. Its many fascinating museums and historical buildings reflect the cultures shaping the city and the province it serves. Drive to the lower cableway station on the slopes of Table Mountain where, weather permitting, you ascend the mountain by aerial cable car.
From a height of 3,425 feet, view the city and Table Bay below, along with Robben Island, the Atlantic Seaboard and most of the spectacular Cape Peninsula. On the evening of Day 3 you will be invited to a private home for dinner, where you can meet and mingle with local South Africans. Overnight at the Cape Grace Hotel, Cape Town.
DAYS 4 & 5
The Cape Peninsula & Franschhoek
Spend the day exploring the remarkable Cape Peninsula. In the Cape Point Nature Reserve, indigenous flora and fauna are conserved in a priceless wilderness area. At Cape Point, take the funicular to the top of the mountain for a panoramic view of the point where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans “meet.”
Proceed to the incredible Jackass Penguin Colony, home to a growing colony of the vulnerable African birds, where you may view the penguins in their natural habitat. Next, drive to the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanic Gardens, home to over 5,000 indigenous plants. Continue on to Franschhoek in the Winelands region. Relax and spend the next two nights in lovely country manor accommodations. Overnight at the Franschhoek Country House & Villas, Franschhoek
Guests on the February and March departures will enjoy an exploration of Franschhoek and wine tasting in Stellenbosch on Day 5. October and November departure guests will embark on a whale-watching expedition to see the southern right whales in Hermanus’ Walker Bay.
DAY 6
The Blue Train
Depart early this morning for a drive back towards Cape Town to board the world-renowned Blue Train, and an unforgettable journey to view spectacular scenery not visible by any other means of transportation. The Blue Train combines the luxury of the world’s leading hotels with the charm of train travel. Follow on the northbound tracks of Cecil John Rhodes, who dreamed of a railroad extending from the Cape to Cairo.
Pass through the wine lands of the fertile Hex River Valley, in the shadow of imposing mountains, up and inland to the endless sweeping landscapes of the Karoo. In the twilight hours, the train approaches the mining centers on the Gold Reef, and comes to a stop in Pretoria.
DAY 7
Pretoria & Johannesburg
Disembark The Blue Train in Pretoria, one of the most beautiful cities in South Africa and its administrative capital. Drive to the De Wildt Cheetah Centre for a private tour. Learn how the center is breeding cheetahs, wild dogs and other endangered species, then releasing them into the wild. Continue to Johannesburg, where you will spend the night. Overnight at the D’Oreale Hotel, Johannesburg.
DAYS 8 – 10
Londolozi Private Game Reserve
The morning of Day 8 drive to Johannesburg airport where you will take a one-hour flight to Londolozi’s own private airstrip. Londolozi is one of the most sought-after ecotourism destinations in the world. A collection of wondrous excursions provide the means for exploring the endless horizons of the African bushveld. The range of activities includes discovery hikes, bush baths, leopard tracking and many more adventures.
There are games drives each day at dawn and dusk — at the best times to view game on the move. The drives are conducted in open 4-wheel-drive vehicles, which allows for total freedom of movement and the ability to leave the road to track down Africa’s Big Five — the most sought-after and dangerous of the world’s big game.
In addition to the game viewing, just a short walk from your camp is the staff village and model Shangaan Cultural Village. The village is a thriving community with many families having lived here for over thirty years. Throughout your stay you can enjoy Londolozi’s excellent cuisine in your choice of the camp dining room, around the boma campfire or in the bushveld under a starlit sky. On your last evening in Londolozi, enjoy a farewell cocktail and dinner party. Overnight at the Londolozi Varty Camp.
DAYS 11 & 12
Londolozi Game Reserve & Depart Johannesburg
After one last morning game drive, those with limited time will be transferred to Johannesburg on Day 11 for your return flight home (arriving the following day) or on to your next destination.
Are you ready to start your African adventure? Contact us now for a quote!
May all your travels stir your soul and change your life forever – Ales.
