11 Day Splendors of Cape Town with Predators of Greater Kruger
Travel with a Purpose
A 11-day guided safari starting in Cape Town and ending in Johannesburg, South Africa. During your 4 nights stay in Cape Town, you are going to explore the vibrant Bo-Kaap neihbourhood, the Cape of Good Hope, vineyards, visit cape peninsula and penguin colony then you will connect a domestic flight to Kruger National Park where you will be welcomed by the Blyde River Canyon panorama view – the world’s third largest – that has benefited from millions of years of erosion to create dramatic rock formations, including the famous Three Rondavels, thought to be reminiscent of the huts of the indigenous people! This canyon is part of the famous Panorama route, which also includes God’s Window, the Pinnacle and Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
Enjoy an exciting expedition as you visit Kruger National Park and Karongwe Private Game Reserve for Big 5, and these game parks are the epitome of the safari experience in Africa, rich with lion prides, elephant herds and thousands of other animals and against shifting backdrops of savanna, forests, rivers, and mountains offer excellent wildlife sightings. In addition to daily game drives, you can enjoy night game drives and exciting bush walks to discover the small wonders of nature. Embark on your last day of this safari on a captivating excursion through Johannesburg CBD and Soweto’s iconic heritage sites, providing an immersive opportunity to delve into South Africa’s tumultuous past and promising future.
Highlights:
– Browse the bustling V&A Waterfront
– Sip the day away in the Cape winelands with chocolate pairing
– Visit the township of Soweto, where Nelson Mandela grew up, and enjoy a traditional South African barbecue
– Predators Sightings on safari and ‘Big Five’ off-road game viewing in Kruger National Park
– Marvel at the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon
– African Dinner and Drumming Experience
– Embark on a shared 4×4 safari vehicle and get yourself closer to the nature and be ready to spot big 5, small 5, Big Birding 6 and many other species found in Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Trip Rating
- Easy and Moderate
Group Size
- Small groups of not more than 12 and not less than 10 travelers, guaranteed
Destinations Visited
- Cape Town | Winelands | Mpumalanga Highlands | Greater Kruger Game Reserve | Soweto Township Reserve
When to Go
- Month of May, June, and July ( Low Season)
- August & September & October ( High Season)
Transportations:
– For most of this safari you will travel in an air-conditioning minibus. For the game drives in Kruger National Park and Karongwe Private Game Reserve we use open sided 4WD vehicles with local guides.
– 10 to 12 Guests will travel in a 13-seater air-conditioned vehicle
Detailed Itinerary Information
1st Day: Welcome to Mother City! Relaxing At V& A Waterfront
Your journey starts when you touch down at Cape Town International Airport and our driver-guide will meet you at the arrivals hall after you have collected your baggage and will have your name on a signboard, so keep your eyes peeled and cruise parallel to the view of Table Mountain, staring one way at its frame and the other way towards the Atlantic and check-in at Hollow On The Square.
The rest of the day will be spent at V&A Waterfront. The old-world charm of the historical harbor meets the most modern shopping experience and the gaps in the between are filled with fine dining restaurants and down-to-earth food markets. V&A Waterfront a best place for guests to enjoy lunch and enjoy a night of dining by sampling an impressive 14 course menu of savory and sweet delights inspired by various cuisines from all over the African continent from starters, mains, and desserts. Before dinner, we will enjoy an exciting drumming class and learn the African beat of the djembe drum. While dining, witness enthralling song, dance and music displays as well as extraordinary puppet shows.
Accommodation At
-Portswood Hotel or similar
Meal Plan & Drinks
- Dinner provided (lunch and drinks guest own account)
2nd Day: Private Guided tour of the Cape Peninsula & Cape Point
The tour begins with a scenic drive along the Atlantic coast; passing through the cosmopolitan suburbs of Sea Point and Camps Bay with its glorious views of the Twelve Apostles, part of the Table Mountain range. We will journey through the fishermen town in Hout Bay; here you can glance at a local craft market and also view the Cape Fur Seals swim between the fishing boats. From here we travel to the Cape Point Nature Reserve where you will explore Cape Point Lighthouse and Cape of Good Hope. Here we can see a variety of wildlife that includes Reebok, Cape Mountain Zebra, Bontebok and Baboons. We will be able also to see the union of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, and may even feel the brisk wind that is dubbed the “Cape Doctor” for its presumed curative powers.
From discovering the beauty of Cape of Good Hope and lunch (own guest account) near the Atlantic Ocean, we continue towards the famous penguin colony of Boulders Beach in Simons Town to see unique and endangered land-based colony of African Penguins then head towards our accommodation for freshening up before we got to a traditional restaurant with local live music for dinner (dinner own guest account)
Accommodation At
– Portswood Hotel or Similar
Meal Plan & Drinks
– Lunch, Dinner, and drinks guest own account
3rd Day: Table Mountain - Bo-Kaap – Kirstenbosch Botanical Garden & Sunset Champagne Cruise
We will visit the Bo-Kaap neighborhood in the heart of the city at the foot of Signal Hill. This vibrant area is home to the Cape Town Muslim community, consisting of those who have descended from the “Cape Malays,” slaves brought by Dutch settlers from Indonesian, Malaysia, and other African countries. Bo-Kaap residents painted their houses in bright colors as a sign of freedom, then visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden for a leisurely walk and enjoy the beautiful flora with more than 7000 plant species, or types, in Kirstenbosch.
As the sun its descent over the picturesque city, the day will be folded with Sunset Champagne Cruise. This luxurious cruise offers an unparalleled experience, allowing you to sip on a glass of champagne while taking in the stunning vistas of Cape Town, Table Mountain, and Bo-Kaap. The Champagne selection on board is carefully curated, ensuring that you can indulge in the finest bubbles as you soak up the beauty around you.
Accommodation At
– Portswood Hotel or similar
Meal Plan & Drinks
– Breakfast (Lunch, Dinner, and drinks guest own account)
4th Day: Private Guided Tour of Cape Winelands
Enjoy a day of leisure in Cape Town, choosing from a variety of optional activities. Hop on a cable car to the summit of Table Mountain, taking in extraordinary views of the city and the Atlantic seaboard. Or explore the Cape Winelands, visiting the historical city of Stellenbosch, touring wine estates with expert guides, and indulging in a variety of tastings and pairings.
There is something for everyone in Cape Town. Visit Table Mountain, walk the V&A Waterfront or embark on a wine tour in and around Stellenbosch. For the adventurous, opt to go, abseiling. Wander through the city center, which has some of the oldest buildings and gardens in South Africa. Check out the Cultural Historical Museum, Planetarium, and many other museums and theaters.
Accommodation At
– Portswood Hotel or similar
Meal Plan & Drinks:
– Breakfast (lunch, Dinner, and drinks guest own account)
5th Day: Cape Town to Mpumalanga
After a hearty breakfast, check out and get transferred to Cape Town International Airport, where you will catch a domestic flight to Nelspruit Airport. Approximate flight duration is two hours and 25 minutes and upon arrival you will be transferred to Umbhaba Eco Lodge for check in and stay for 2 nights in Hazyview, the gateway of Kruger National Park. A sub-tropical farming town in Mpumalanga, renowned for its large banana and macadamia nut industries, contributing about 20% of South Africa’s bananas and 30% of macadamia output
Spend the afternoon at leisure by the poolside recharging for the full day safari drive into the national park tomorrow.
Accommodation At
– Umbhaba Eco Lodge or similar
Meal Plan & Drinks
– Breakfast and Dinner provided (lunch and drinks own guest account)
6th Day: Into Kruger National Park for Safari, Big Five Destination
Departing early, we head to Kruger National Park to spend the full day exploring the wilderness of the park looking for the Big five! Kruger National Park is the biggest and one of the most famous parks in South Africa. Experience the beauty of the true wildlife, birdlife, and the silence of the vast outdoors of Kruger National Park with a highly experienced ranger, who will ensure optimal game viewing with his in-depth knowledge of the African bush, and later drive back to the lodge for dinner and overnight. (Lunch for own account)
Accommodation At
– Umbhaba Eco Lodge or similar
Meal Plan & Drinks
– Breakfast, and Dinner will be provided (lunch and drinks guest own account)
7th to 9th Day: Panorama Tour & Game Safari in Karongwe Game Reserve
As the sun rises over the lush green landscape, a sense of anticipation fills the air. After a scrumptious breakfast, we embark on a journey through Mpumalanga’s Panorama Route, a tapestry of natural wonders waiting to be discovered. From cascading waterfalls to panoramic vistas that seem to stretch to the horizon, this tour promises an unforgettable experience, then we will proceed to Karongwe Game Reserve and settle in our tented camp for the next two nights. Later in the late afternoon, we will embark on a game drive to spot some of the wildlife that roams in the area before returning to camp before dinner time. These Private reserves offer excellent game viewing opportunities together with the advantages of smaller, hosted accommodation and game drives.
Next nights, your wake-up call will come at 05:00 and just give you time for a hot beverage and rusks before departing for a three-hour sunrise game drive in the reserve. You will return to the lodge for a late breakfast and can spend the rest of the morning relaxing at the pool. Lunch is served between 13:00 and 15:00 and your afternoon game drive commences at about 16:00, to return around 19:00 time for dinner in the dining area or boma (weather permitting). Wildlife viewing in Karongwe Private Game Reserve is at its best during the Dry season (June to October). August and September are particularly nice; since it is warmer than in mid-winter and animals tend to gather at water sources, making them easier to spot. Enjoy fascinating game drives and informative nature walks with experienced guides and trackers who will help you learn more about this remarkable area.
Bushwalks are an optional extra, and only arranged at the lodge, subject to conditions. This activity is also available for limited duration and is subject to approval on the ground, it is also subject to game movement and Karongwe lodges reserves the right not to offer based on the safety of our guests.
On these nights you will have time to meet the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Expansion Project researcher’s and learn much more about efforts done by saving and conserving southern Africa’s carnivores by reducing threats to their survival and protecting and restoring their habitats.
Accommodation At
– Chisomo Safari Lodge or similar
Meal Plan & Drinks
– Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner, snacks, tea, and coffee (drinks own guest account)
10th Day: Into Jozi – Johannesburg
Embark on one last safari this morning, keeping a lookout for Karongwe’s iconic inhabitants. Then head back to the city, where you’ll enjoy dinner in our lodge. Drive through the town of Dullstroom which is the highest village in South Africa, 2200m above sea level, a town devoted completely to tourism. Here you will have the opportunity to walk around and admire some cafes, restaurants and curio shops. After lunch we will head off towards the city of Johannesburg where you will check-in and overnight.
Accommodation Stay
- Safari Club or similar
Meal Plan & Drinks
– Breakfast and dinner provided (lunch own guest account)
11th Day: Johannesburg – Soweto Township & Mandela House Museum & Homeward Bound
After a hearty breakfast, our sightseeing starts with a visit to Soweto Township, South Africa’s largest and most famous township. Understand the origins of the township along with the current “kasi” life before walking in the steps of legends – Nobel peace prize winners Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu at their houses in Vilakazi Street and visit the Mandela House Museum to learn about the founding of South Africa before delving into the apartheid era. Take note of the public art, especially the day of the uprising artwork, as well as memorials and benches that note famous historical sites through the apartheid years to the 1994 democratic elections that named Nelson Mandela president and hearing stories of freedom fighters, students from the 1976 uprising. Complete your Soweto tour with a visit to the small but significant Kliptown Museum, which pays tribute to the 3,000 plus oppressed South Africans who formed part of the Congress of the People in 1955. After the Soweto tour, we will be dropped at OR Tambo International Airport for your onward travel arrangements back home.
Meal Plan & Drinks
Breakfast
Price Inclusions:
– Shared arrival airport transfer from Cape Town International Airport to Portswood Hotel
– Shared departure from Portswood Hotel to Cape Town International Airport
– Shared departure airport transfer from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport to Chestnut Country Lodge
– At Portswood Hotel: 4 Nights’ accommodation in deluxe room on bed and breakfast basis
– At Safari Club: 1 Night accommodation in a luxury room on bed and breakfast basis
– Cultural and Community visits
– At Chisomo Safari Camp: 2 Nights’ Accommodation, all meals, tea, coffee and snacks, all activities, National Parks fees, dawn and dust safaris in open game drive vehicle, drinks on dust safaris are limited to one per person with a choice of local beer, wine or soft drink, reserves fees are included, WIFI
– At Umbhaba Eco Lodge: 2 Nights’ accommodation, half day afternoon and full day game drive in Kruger National Park, half day guided Panorama Route tour ((incl. park fees and entrance fees for Panorama Route Tour), Arrival & departure transfers from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport, full board meals
– 10 Breakfasts, 3 lunches, 6 Dinners
– Standard meet and greet at Cape Town International Airport and Kruger Mpumalanga Airport on arrival
– Cape Point Entrance, Peninsula Tour and Wine tasting and chocolate pairing tour,
-Boulders Beach Entrance
-Full day drive in Kruger National Park
-4 game drives in Karongwe Private Game Reserve
-Soweto Tour including entrance to Hector Pietersen and Mandela Museum
-Entrance to God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and Three Rondavels
Price Exclusions:
– Gratuities
– Travel Insurance
– International domestic fares & airfare taxes
– Meals and beverages not explicitly listed as included
– Items of a personal nature
– Visa fees if applicable
TRIP INFORMATION WITH TERMS AND CONDITIONS
LUGGAGE RESTRICTIONS
Luggage restrictions may apply to your safari tour in South Africa where safari vehicles or light aircraft are utilized. It is limited to a maximum weight of 20 kg including hand luggage per person. In cases of fly-in safari the luggage is limited to 10kg soft bag per person.
All passengers travelling on Air Charter flights are entitled to one free piece of checked luggage and one small carry on item. Maximum hand luggage is 5kg (11 lbs. and 1 piece allowed) which is part of the 20kg (44 lbs.) total luggage limitation. Maximum checked in luggage size is 30cm (12in) wide x 35cm (14in) high x 70cm (28in) long. For additional camera equipment or overweight luggage, additional seats can be bought prior to departure. This additional seat allows an extra 30kgs of luggage.
Passenger Weight: Passengers over 115kg may have to purchase an extra seat – please inform us prior to travel.
NB: We accept all types of closed luggage; however, soft bags are preferred.
WHAT TO PACK
Summer, which runs November through March, is the country’s rainy season with temperatures ranging from 97 to 112 degrees Fahrenheit.
Pack lightweight, light coloured cotton shorts and tops, sun hats, and sunglasses. Pack pants and a lightweight jacket for the evening.
The winter season runs from May through August and brings temperatures in the 41 to 73 degrees Fahrenheit.
For a winter trip, pack pants and long-sleeve tops, and a few shorts and short-sleeve tops for warmer days.
Pack a warm jacket since early mornings and evenings in the winter are cold.
Pack a swimsuit. For footwear, bring closed walking shoes, sandals and Lightweight trail boots or robust trainers with good grip and sandals for relaxing in. (No high heel shoes)
Bug repellent – can be purchased in camp
Camera, Binoculars, Flashlight
WHY BOOK WITH US
You save money – it costs less to book with us direct. No booking fees. No credit card surcharge
Seamless travel arrangements – no travel stress
Guaranteed Departure with a minimum of two guests daily
Full Financial protection – travel with confidence
BRIEFING AND ACTIVITIES
Once you arrive at camp, you will be briefed and welcomed by Camp Managers, which will explain your safari activities and assist with any queries or requests.
PASSPORT AND VISAS
The onus is upon the guest to ensure that passports and visas are valid for the countries visited. The company, their staff and their agents cannot be held responsible for any visas, etc. not held by the guests, nor the costs of visas. Passports must have a validity of at least 6 months longer than your intended stay overseas.
DIETARY REQUIREMENTS
Special dietary requests are required to be notified to AfroExplorers Travel during the time of booking. Although we will use reasonable endeavors to accommodate requests, we cannot guarantee requests will be met by suppliers. It is your responsibility to check that meals and beverages do not contain any allergens. We expressly disclaim any liability for meals or beverages that contain allergens.
CHANGES
AfroExplorers Travel reserves the right to make changes to program details and arrangements both before and after the booking has been made. Most changes will be minor, but if we must make significant changes, you will be notified at the earliest possible opportunity. In such cases if your bookings change with 10% or more of the total costs you will have the opportunity to accept the changes or to receive a refund excluding the non-refundable deposit paid before.
TRAVEL INSURANCE
It is strongly encouraged that you are adequately insured for the duration of your trip. We recommend comprehensive travel insurance to cover cancellation, medical requirements, luggage, repatriations, and additional expenses. The choice of insurer is yours. We strongly suggest you purchase insurance at the time you pay your deposit. This is because cancellation fees and charges are payable from that time.
GAME DRIVES
All daily game drives are conducted in open aired safari vehicles accompanied by an experienced guide. The open safari vehicles have blankets and ponchos onboard for any weather changes especially winter months.
CHILD POLICY
Children are welcome on this safari however due to safety and comfort. Children under the age of two years will be accommodated free of charge when sharing a room with other paying guests. Children aged 12 years or older will be charged adult rates. Children 2-11 pay 50% of adult rate if sharing with an adult. If 2 children require their own room and are under 12, one pays full adult rate and one pays 50%.
Guests that travel with children must make sure that their children listen to and follow the manager/guide’s safety instructions during activities. Guests must take full responsibility for supervision of their child while they are in camp, as well as their child’s behavior at the property and on game drive vehicles. Children under 6 years are not permitted on any game activity unless approved by the Lodge Management onsite, or prior approval by Directors is given. (Children are required to be accompanied by an adult on Game activity). Securing a private vehicle will not guarantee leniency on this policy. The camps reserve the right to not allow children on game drive vehicles if their behavior compromises their own and other client’s safety.
PAYMENT POLICY
Upon the confirmation a 30% non-refundable deposit is required to guarantee the booking latest 7days after our confirmation of booking. Full Payment is expected 60 Days prior to arrival. Deposit amount subject to change based on lodge included and / or peak season travel dates. AfroExplorers Travel, accepts all major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express and Amex cards). In the event of payment being made by credit card, a surcharge of 3% applies on the total tour price.
For late bookings (bookings within 60 days of departure), full payment is required at the time of request. You acknowledge that we may not be able to confirm services, in which case we will provide you with a refund.
CANCELLATION POLICY
Upon receipt of written cancellation by any member of the tour indicated on this reservation 30 days or longer prior to arrival, 20% of the reservation will be retained by AfroExplorers Travel and the balance of the package price refunded.
If a cancellation is received less than 14 days prior to arrival, 100% of the total package price will be retained by AfroExplorers Travel and all outstanding payments will become payable immediately.
Should the canceling party be able to find a replacement for themselves no less than 14 days prior to departure and the replacement completes this booking, no retention of funds will take place.
REFUNDING PROCESSING FEE
While processing a refund, a fee which is the greater of (a) USD$250 or (b) 5% of the booking value, to compensate us for processing the cancellation and any associated refund.
JURISDICTION
This agreement is made subject to and shall be governed by and construed according to the laws of South Africa .