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Your exciting adventure begins today, as you touch down in South Africa. On arrival you will receive a VIP meet and greet at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board. Should your aircraft be directed to the apron and not the terminal building, you will be transported to the terminal by bus where you meet and greet will be waiting for you as you step off the bus. You will then be assisted through immigration, baggage collection and customs and on to your next service.
The Mother City has a peculiar habit - once a day, Capetonians check their watches. Now, this in itself is not very unusual. The strangeness comes into the fact that everyone looks at their watches at exactly the same time without consciously thinking about it. At exactly 12:00 pm every day, a loud bang fired from cannon on Signal Hill announces to the city that midday has arrived.
The Cape was established by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) as a halfway house along the trade route between the East and Europe. This became a place to mend ships, rest and heal weary visitors and most importantly to collect fresh produce grown by farmers in the area in order to feed famished sailors and soldiers before heading off again for the second leg of their arduous sea voyage. Cape Town grew quickly and soon earned the reputation as the ‘Tavern of the Seas’. Today Cape Town is still a thriving port and never ceases to enthrall visitors with its unique beauty, ethnic diversity and energetic vibe.
With its iconic Table Mountain backdrop, Cape Town is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. An eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects both the area’s history and the more pragmatic realities of the 21st century. The city’s Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been carefully preserved, and many excellent examples of Cape Dutch architecture are found in the city and its environs.
The ability to make something that is both functional and beautiful has long been a proud aspect of the African culture. Cape Town boasts some of the most original and creative handmade arts and crafts and can be found at markets and shops all over Cape Town. You'll find something that caters for any taste or style at the V&A Waterfront or at one of the many shops that open their doors in the surrounding Cape Town area.
Being a coastal town, the ocean plays an important part in everyday lives, beyond the calming effect for which it's famous. There is an incredible diversity of marine life to be discovered and many fun-filled activities can be planned to make use of the bountiful Atlantic and Indian Oceans surrounding Cape Town
After breakfast at the hotel, your guide will meet you at the lobby for your tour to Table Mountain, ascend the mountain by cable car. It is wise to enjoy the mountain during the early morning hours, when the clouds have not yet gathered over the mountain top (or, as the locals say, before the “white tablecloth has been spread over Table Mountain”.)
Table Mountain is an iconic flat-topped massif that looms majestically over the city of Cape Town. Ascending to its summit via the rotating cable car unveils a panoramic spectacle, a mesmerizing blend of urban sophistication and untamed wilderness. As you traverse the meandering trails, the fynbos vegetation, unique to the Cape Floral Kingdom, paints the landscape with a kaleidoscope of colors. The intricate tapestry of Proteas, Ericas, and Restios creates a botanical wonderland, a living testament to the region’s biodiversity. The Table Mountain plateau is not merely a vantage point; it’s a geological marvel. Weathered sandstone formations, sculpted by millennia of wind and rain, stand as sentinels of time. Adventure seekers can opt for rock climbing routes that challenge even the most seasoned climbers, providing a unique perspective on the rugged grandeur of the mountain.
Wander through the Company's Garden and as you travel through the city you will get a good feel for the city and the cultural melting pot that it is. Continue onto the Castle of Good Hope which was built by the Dutch East India Company, between 1666 and 1679, as a maritime replenishment station and is the oldest surviving building in the country. Visit the gardens, known as the Company Gardens and admire the beautiful buildings constructed. Learn more about the history of the Cape, its significant role historically and in modern times. A day filled with information on the one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
The Castle of Good Hope is known locally as "The Castle". Its Dutch name is "Kasteel de Goede Hoop" and is a bastion fort built in the 17th century in Cape Town, South Africa. The Castle was originally located on the coastline of Table Bay but, following reclamation, the fort is now located a short distance inland within the Central Business District. The Castle was declared a historical monument (now a provincial heritage site) in 1936. Following restoration work in the 1980s, it is considered the best preserved example of a 17th century architectural structure in the entire world.
Depart the hotel this morning to commence your tour of the Cape Peninsula. First you will travel via the 12 Apostles and Hout Bay, to Chapman’s Peak. This is one of the region’s most dramatic mountain drives and offers amazing panoramic views over the city and environs. Descend the mountain pass and continue on to the coastline.
This strip of the peninsula’s shoreline, commonly known as the Atlantic Seaboard, stretches some 34 miles from the waters of Table Bay along the western coast to the nature reserve at Cape Point. The exceptional beaches and rugged mountains along this coastline not only make this a popular drive, but also provide outstanding views across the Atlantic Ocean, with some of the most spectacular sunsets in the world.
The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve comes to an end at majestic Cape Point. Situated at the junction of two of earth’s most contrasting water masses – the cold Benguela current on the West Coast and the warm Agulhas current on the East Coast, the Cape of Good Hope is popularly perceived as the meeting point of the Atlantic and the Indian Oceans. Take the funicular to the vantage point from where they will be able to witness the “meeting of the two oceans”.
Today’s attractions include Boulders beach, which is home to a colony of endangered "jackass" penguins. Technically, these are African penguins, but early settlers thought that their braying sound was more like a four-footed pack animal than a two-footed bird! Visit the beautiful Kirstenbosch gardens before returning to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Chapman's Peak is a mountain on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, between Hout Bay and Noordhoek in Cape Town, South Africa. The western flank of the mountain falls sharply for hundreds of meters into the Atlantic Ocean, and a road, known as Chapman's Peak Drive, hugs the near-vertical face of the mountain, linking Hout Bay to Noordhoek. Tourists and locals often stop at viewpoints along this road, which offer views of Hout Bay, The Sentinel Peak and surrounds, as well as over Noordhoek Beach. Chapman's Peak Drive is part of the route of two of South Africa's biggest mass-participation races, the Cape Argus Cycle Race and the Two Oceans Marathon.
Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world. Few gardens can match the sheer grandeur of the setting of Kirstenbosch, against the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain. The Kirstenbosch estate covers 528 hectares, of which 36 ha is cultivated and the rest is a protected area supporting natural forest and fynbos, and a wide variety of indigenous birds, animals, reptiles, frogs and invertebrates. Birds are abundant at Kirstenbosch, particularly in the Garden – more than 125 species have been recorded. The natural area can be explored via a number of walks and trails. Kirstenbosch is adjacent to the Table Mountain National Park, and both form part of the Cape Floristic Region Protected Area that was proclaimed a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004.
Explore the fascinating town of Stellenbosch, browsing through appealing shops and museums, and awaken your senses with wine tasting experiences at an iconic wine estates. Soak up the scenery of this wonderful region, admire a contemporary art collection, see the highest-growing vines and take in breath-taking vistas from an elevated vantage point. Discover the town of Franschhoek, established by the French Huguenots in 1688, where historic charm blends with a contemporary ambiance. The town boasts a host of boutiques, gourmet restaurants and galleries. Continue to some family-owned, off-the-beaten-track estates for a more intimate, boutique wine tasting experience.
Welcome to Stellenbosch – South Africa’s second oldest town and most inspiring wine, food, art and cultural destination. The scenic Stellenbosch Wine Route is the oldest in the country and one of the most popular destinations for local and international visitors alike. It has unforgettable cellar door experiences, award-winning wine estates, celebrated restaurants and Stellenbosch’s unique and enviable lifestyle. Stellenbosch is an ideal getaway year-round. The historic town centre is a living museum with a vibrant street culture. Expect friendly locals, a host of lively events (from art, music and history to outdoor pursuits) and natural scenery.
The town was founded in 1679 by the Governor of the Cape Colony, Simon van der Stel. It is situated on the banks of the Eerste River ("First River"), so named as it was the first new river he reached and followed when he went on an expedition to explore the territory towards what is now known as Stellenbosch. The town grew so quickly that it became an independent local authority in 1682 and the seat of a magistrate with jurisdiction over 25,000 square kilometers 9,700 sq mi in 1685. The Dutch were skilled in hydraulic engineering and they devised a system of furrows to direct water from the Eerste River in the vicinity of Thibault Street through the town along van Riebeeck Street to Mill Street where a mill was erected. Early visitors commented on the oak trees and gardens. During 1690 some Huguenot refugees settled in Stellenbosch, grapes were planted in the fertile valleys around Stellenbosch and soon it became the centre of the South African wine industry.
A visit to a beautiful eatery will ignite your senses when you are introduced to delicately crafted wines accompanied by appetizing treats. Equally enticing are the visits to local spots where each one will spoil you with traditional teas, desserts and lunch. Please note that this tour is not suitable for guests who require lactose and gluten-free meals. A Leisurely-paced walk coupled with entertaining stories about the town, visit the oldest restored townhouse in South Africa, sample home-grown teas paired with typical Cape sweet treats, taste traditional beef snacks, enjoy locally produced wines with appetizing delights and a heritage lunch platter at the oldest hotel in Stellenbosch.
We can accommodate most dietary types on most of the tours, however, it is crucial to inform us of your required dietaries. Non-alcoholic refreshment options are available for every tour - please don’t hesitate to inform your guide. The duration of this tour is around 3.4 - 4 hours.
French Huguenots settled in this spectacular valley over 300 years ago, bringing their vines with them. Ever since, this Winelands town has clung to its French roots. Franschhoek bills itself as the country’s gastronomic capital, and you’ll certainly have a tough time deciding where to eat. Plus, with a clutch of art galleries, wine farms and stylish guesthouses thrown in, it really is one of the loveliest towns in the Cape.
Franschhoek is famous for it’s wines. The valley and mountain slopes are decorated by the vines of many wine estates, where one can relax and taste a variety of exquisite wines in majestic surroundings. Franschhoek is a wine lovers delight… the valley has a deep vigneron tradition, dating back to the 16th century. Some of South Africa’s oldest and most famous wine estates are found here.
Franschhoek has a plethora boutique shops scattered around the village. You can find high fashion clothing stores, jewelry, antique and interior shops, specialty food stores and wine shops as well as many art galleries, all within easy walking distance in the heart of the village. Franschhoek has many fine and award winning Restaurants to choose from, for a great dining experience. Whether you are after a breakfast, light lunch, family meal or a romantic evening of fine dining gourmet cuisine for two, Franschhoek’ s wide variety of Restaurants will cater to all your culinary desires…
*** The internal flight from Cape Town to Kruger is not included in the land price
Sabi Sands Game Reserve, adjacent to South Africa's flagship Kruger National Park, offers a safari experience found nowhere else in the world. Game viewing possibilities are simply unparalleled, including the much sought after 'Big Five'. Add a fantastic range of luxury lodges suiting all tastes and an African dream safari is born. There are no fences between Kruger National Park and Sabi Sands Game Reserve, so wildlife roams freely throughout this pristine part of the ancient African continent. The diverse habitat is home to spectacular wildlife including the Big 5 - lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo and elephant - as well as cheetah, wild dog and some 200 other animal species indigenous to the area.
*** Local brand drinks and limited laundry included
Game drives are conducted in open 4 x 4 game viewing vehicles with professional driver - guides. Two game drives are offered per day, a morning game drive and an afternoon game drive. After sundowners guests will get to experience a night drive on the way back to the lodge. The night drives allow guests the opportunity to see the nocturnal animals not encountered during the day.
The Sabi Sands is in particular well known for its amazing leopard sightings. The most elusive animal of the Big 5 is frequently spotted when going on a game drive in the reserve. As such, Sabi Sands offers the ultimate photographic safari one can think of. You can be certain to return home with some absolutely stunning pictures and memories. Besides the Big 5, other game species occur in great numbers, among which are over 300 bird species.
Most guides and trackers have grown up in the Kruger area and have an instinctive understanding of nature. Combine this passion with extensive training and planning, delivers exceptional safari experiences that place your safety first and leave you feeling richer in knowledge and humbled by nature.
For those looking for an active thrill beyond the excitement of Big Five sightings on a game drive vehicle, a guided bush walk offers an opportunity to connect with the African bush, learning about its fascinating fauna and flora. Embark on an adventure where your feet tread in the tracks of Africa’s wild inhabitants, your nostrils fill with the scent of crushed wild grasses as you push through the bush and all six senses reawaken as Africa touches you and you touch Africa. At one with nature, discover a range of natural wonders in the company of your experienced, walking safari guide. Learn how to track, seeing how close you can come to smaller game like impala or nyala antelope without them being aware of your presence. Smell and taste wild herbs, learning their traditional uses, and explore the smaller marvels of the bush, from the magnificent tapestry of a spider’s web to the microscopic world of the dung beetle.
*** Local brand drinks and limited laundry included
*** The internal flight from Kruger to Vilanculos is not included in the land price
The Bazaruto Archipelago is a group of six islands in Mozambique, near the mainland city of Vilanculos. It comprises the islands of Bazaruto, Benguerra, Magaruque, Banque, Santa Carolina (also known as Paradise Island) and Shell. The archipelago became a National Park in 1971. There is a wide abundance of reef fish, surgeon, Moorish idols, parrots, angel and butterfly fish to name but a few. Sea turtles, game fish and devil rays are regularly seen. Various endangered marine megafaunas, such as whale shark, manta, leatherback turtle, cetaceans including humpback whale, and the dugong. Bazaruto's dugong population counts about 120 individuals, making it the largest of remnant populations in Mozambique.
*** Direct flights from Kruger to Mozambique only operates between July 24 - January 5. Travel outside peak period will require a flight via Johannesburg with a tight connection, and an extra night in Johannesburg is recommended.
*** In the event that helicopter transfers are not available for any reason, alternative transfers will be arranged by fixed wing aircraft and boats at the discretion of Azura Retreats.
There are many optional activities available like scuba diving, guided snorkeling, island hopping, visit to Vilanculos and its market, shore and deep sea fishing, helicopter flips, horse riding, dhow sailing and guided marine shore walks and more.
Snorkeling at Two Mile Reef, a barrier reef that runs from the south of Bazaruto island to the North Point of Benguerra Island, is not to be missed. The reef is known for its biodiversity, with many species of hard and soft corals, anemonefish, fusiliers, snappers, surgeonfish, Moorish idols, parrotfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, game fish, moray eels... You can also spot humpback whales, nurse sharks, reef sharks, rays, Hawksbill turtle, and if you're lucky even a dugong. Island hopping is another great activity to explore the different islands by boat, and stop along the way and take a swim in the warm water of the Indian Ocean.
*** Activities not included by the lodge are optional and extra, payable directly at the lodge
*** Your stay at Azura includes local brand drinks, sunset cocktails of the day, use of Peri Peri Beach Club, safari island drive, a sunset dhow cruise, use of snorkeling equipment, kayaking, paddle boarding and Wi-Fi.
*** Please note a $15 per person per stay is payable locally
*** The internal flight from Vilanculos to Johannesburg is not included in the land price
Bid farewell to Africa, for now until your next Safari !
Cape Town, South Africa
Room Type: Classic Room
Impossible to miss, The Winchester Hotel stands out with bold appeal on the edge of the ever-vibrant Sea Point Promenade. The splendour of this 1920s Cape Dutch-style icon is rivalled only by the views of Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean that frame the establishment.
Franschhoek, South Africa
Room Type: Classic Room
Leeu House Boutique Hotel is located in the heart of Franschhoek. Uniquely decorated bedrooms feature superbly comfortable beds with high-quality linen, along with curtains and upholstery in natural textiles, contributing to the relaxed yet sophisticated feel. Set in the vibrant epicenter of Franschhoek village, resident guests can enjoy leisurely meals in The Conservatory, or al fresco on the terrace. Breakfasts are highly rated and an all-day dining menu offers light meals with a focus on local produce from midday. In-house guests have access to a 49-foot swimming pool with a shaded terrace and mountain views. The Great Heart Wines Boutique recalibrates the notion of an intimate and personalized wine tasting with availability for a table that sits four guests at a time for Le Quartier Français and Leeu House guests only.
Sabi Sands Game Reserve, South Africa
Room Type: Suite
Intimate and secluded, the Little Bush Camp is located in a private concession within the Sabi Sands Private Reserve, bordering the Kruger National Park. Nestled under the shade of indigenous trees, the camp overlooks a peaceful riverbed. The property boasts just six free-standing luxury suites, which each feature irresistible bush views from private decks.
The romantic rooms are luxuriously furnished with traditional safari-style décor, earthy tones and an African flair. Private heated spa baths can be enjoyed on each deck. Main areas of the camp include viewing decks and a comfortable lounge warmed by blazing fires. Meals are served in the dining room, or in the boma beneath star-studded skies. Soak in the pool between game drives, or doze off in a sun lounger on the terrace.
Benguerra Island, Mozambique
Room Type: Beach Villa
Azura Benguerra Island, positioned in an unspoiled island within a Marine National Park, deserted beaches of pure white sand that extend for miles, sparkling turquoise seas criss-crossed by local dhows plying their trade, sunny days and star-studded nights. This is the enchanting island escape you always imagined. Azura Benguerra, the first eco-friendly resort in Mozambique, was hand-built by the local community and is operated in partnership with it.
Twenty villas are nestled along one of the last undiscovered stretches of beach in the world, with all the creature comforts you could wish for, sparkling private pools, Mozambican butler-hosts to look after your every need, fish and seafood fresh from the ocean, a fantastic range of activities and experiences, an African spa to relax in, all at a community based project where the local islanders benefit as much as you.
78060 Calle Estado Suite 7,
La Quinta, CA 92253
P 800.409.7755 | F 818.459.6999
info@greatsafaris.com| www.greatsafaris.com
CST# 2163276-50
THANK YOU FOR TRAVELING WITH GREAT SAFARIS
