Iconic South Africa

You’re on your way to South Africa, where incredible landscapes lead the way to cultural diversity, abundant wildlife, and remarkable history. From dynamic urban centers to wildlife safaris, Africa has a way of taking you by surprise.

Your adventure begins in Johannesburg, a dynamic city shaped by its gold-rush origins and modern role as South Africa’s economic heart. As travelers’ arrival times will vary, there are no scheduled activities today. Settle into your hotel and relax before tomorrow’s adventure begins. Dinner tonight is on your own.

Today, visit the Apartheid Museum to explore South Africa’s journey from segregation to democracy. Continue to Soweto for a guided tour of one of the nation’s most historic townships. Stop at a local market to experience daily life, noticing both the informal settlements and elegant homes that reflect the community’s history and character. Drive past the former home of Nelson Mandela, an enduring symbol of the struggle for freedom. Then, join locals for lunch at a local shabeen (pub), a gathering place deeply rooted in township culture. This evening, gather with your fellow travelers for a welcome dinner.

Leave the city behind and start your adventure with a flight into the wild as you head to Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest game reserve. See how the landscape shifts dramatically, giving you a glimpse of the expansive savannas and diverse ecosystems that make Kruger so unique. Your lodge, positioned at the park’s entrance, sets the stage for your safari experience. Tonight, gather with fellow travelers for your first dinner in the national park.

Get your camera ready — today is all about the wildlife! Set out on a full-day game drive in an open-air vehicle, searching for Africa’s iconic “Big Five.” The safari bucket list of animals includes lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and cape buffalo. Pause midday for a picnic lunch, then continue your safari adventure into the afternoon.

Embrace the rare opportunity to head back into the wild on another full-day safari game drive in Kruger National Park. Enjoy this second attempt to see any elusive animals you may have missed yesterday or get another look at your favorites.

After two immersive full-day safaris, today offers a slightly different rhythm in the bush. Head out on an early-morning game drive, taking advantage of the softer light and quieter atmosphere to observe familiar wildlife behaviors from a new angle. Return to the lodge for a hearty brunch and some well-earned downtime before venturing out again in the afternoon. Return after the sun sets for your final dinner in Kruger National Park.

Say goodbye to the wild and hello to the winelands of the Western Cape. See for yourself why this area boasts a reputation as one of the world’s most beautiful wine countries. Take a flight to Cape Town, South Africa and then a short drive to the town of Stellenbosch, located in South Africa’s most famous wine region. Settle in for a 2-night stay among rolling vineyards and historic Cape Dutch architecture.

Start your day with a walking tour of Stellenbosch, a university town known for its vineyards and mountainous nature reserves. Continue to nearby Franschhoek to experience the town’s renowned wine culture with a cellar tour, tasting, and lunch before returning to Stellenbosch. Visit a second winery before returning back to your hotel for a relaxed evening.

Say hello to Cape Town, South Africa’s electric cultural mecca that captivates you at every turn. Explore Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a Cape Town hotspot. From heritage sites to historic landmarks, markets, shops, and restaurants, the waterfront is one of South Africa’s most compelling destinations. On arrival, rise gently over the South African landscape in a cable car to Table Mountain,* taking in views of Cape Town, Lions Head, and historic Robben Island. Tonight, experience an evening of exciting African entertainment, music, food, and culture at a celebrated restaurant in the heart of the city.

Travel to Cape Point, the southwestern tip of Africa. Marvel at the vibrant green foliage blanketing the rocky outcrops, set as a contrast to the bright blue waves below. Set out on a laid-back hike down the mountain, wandering by patches of native flowers. Then, stop at Boulders Beach for the rarest of black-tie events – a rendezvous with endangered African penguins!

Immerse yourself in Cape Town’s Bo-Kaap neighborhood, famous for its brightly painted houses and deep-rooted Cape Malay heritage. Meet your guide, who will take you to a local market where you’ll pick up aromatic spices that set the stage for your Bo-Kaap cooking experience. Learn how to prepare Cape Malay staples, like delicate samosas and fragrant Cape Malay curry, before sitting to enjoy the delicious dishes you’ve created together. The remainder of the day is free to relax or explore at your leisure.

Enjoy your final day at leisure before gathering with your fellow travelers for a farewell dinner to taste the country’s beloved flavors, starring an array of South African specialties and delicacies.

Your tour ends today, leaving you with memories of South Africa’s incredible people and landscapes.