Itinerary
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Day 1
Johannesburg Johannesburg or Jo'burg, as the locals call the city of the gold, is the biggest metropolis in South Africa. With its 3.2 million citizens the city on the Witwatersrand is the predominant commercial centre and the economic motor of the Republic of South Africa. It is the international flight gateway for most of southern Africa. Upon arrival into South Africa you will be met at the door of the plane and escorted through Customs and Immigration avoiding any queues. Upon arrival you will receive all of your necessary documents for your trip which contains a detailed personalized itinerary, maps, restaurant suggestions, Top Tips for exploring each city or region and a 24 hour concierge service (for restaurant reservations, spa treatments, child minders, day tours etc). Airport transfer to/from your hotel with private vehicle Kensington Tours donates a portion of proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities. Contemporary convenience at its best...the new 3-star Peermont Metcourt Hotel at Emperors Palace offers stylish and comfortable rooms as well as a "group-friendly" experience for corporate, convention and leisure guests. Overnight at Peermont Metcourt. |
 Johannesburg |
 Kensington Cares |
 Peermont Metcourt |
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Day 2
Hazyview Hazyview is a small farming town in Mpumalanga, South Africa and is renowned for its banana industry. Close to Kruger National Park, the town's name is derived from the shimmering haze that occurs during the heat of summer. Most of Mpumalanga's private game reserves are found just east of Hazyview. This trip departs from Johannesburg every Monday with a minimum of 2 people and a maximum of 12. You will be collected early this morning by your private guide. Depart Johannesburg and travel to the ‘Land of the Rising Sun – Mpumalanga – via the magnificent Panorama Route. Weather permitting, en route you will visit God’s Window, a boundless view of forested mountains and fertile plains, the Blyde River Canyon – the 3rd largest canyon in the world, and the extraordinary rock formations at Bourkes Luck Potholes.
The most spectacular stretch of the Panorama Route is the Blyde River Canyon. From many well-positioned vantage points one has a view of the 33 km long gorge, which starts at “Bourke’s Luck Potholes” and ends at the “Three Rondavels”. A stop will be made for lunch en route. Late afternoon arrival in the park. Perry’s Bridge Hollow Boutique Hotel is situated outside Hazyview at the colonial Perry’s Bridge Trading Post, Mpumalanga. Its proximity to the Kruger National Park, the airport and the Panorama Route makes it the ideal venue to rest whilst discovering the Lowveld. Overnight at Perry’s Bridge Hollow. |
 Hazyview |
 Blyde River Canyon |
 Perry's Bridge Hollow |
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Day 3
Hazyview Early this morning you will depart on an open vehicle safari through the Kruger National Park. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa. At nearly 2 million hectares, the reserve is the flagship of South African National Parks and is home to an impressive number of flora and fauna. Return to your hotel in the afternoon and spend the remainder of the day at leisure. You will have the option to return to the Kruger National Park to absorb the tranquil beauty of an evening safari (additional charge). Overnight at Perry’s Bridge Hollow. |
 Kruger National Park |
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Day 4
Mbabane Mbabane, with an estimated population of 95,000 (2007), is the capital and largest city of Swaziland. It is located on the Mbabane River and its tributary the Polinjane River in the Mdimba Mountains. It is located in the district of Hhohho, of which it is also the capital. The town grew after the nation's administrative centre moved from Manzini in 1902. It derives its name from a Chief, Mbabane Kunene, who lived in the area when British settlers arrived. It is also a commercial hub for the surrounding region, while tin and iron were mined nearby. Mbabane's closest border crossing to South Africa is Ngwenya-Oshoek, and though siSwati is the primary language, English is widespread. Mbabane, and Swaziland itself, thrive on tourism and sugar exports. The city has world class shopping centres and two sites for light industries. After breakfast, travel to the Royal Kingdom of Swaziland. This tiny mountainous kingdom is filled with bygone African traditions and culture and offers beautiful scenery and attractions such as game reserves and art & craft outlets to name a few. Enjoy a showcase of the traditional Swazi culture followed by lunch at the Matsamo Cultural Village. Continue to the Ngwenya Glass Works to see master craftsmen create beautiful sculptures and artwork from molten glass. After spending some time at the Mbabane craft markets, arrive at your hotel located in the beautiful Ezulwini Valley. The atmosphere at the Ezulwini Sun is Caribbean with a mélange of refreshing blue and white textures and turquoise and soft coral pink fabrics. The joie de vivre essence of the hotel is evident everywhere. Overnight at Ezulwini Sun . |
 Mbabane |
 Matsamo Cultural Village |
 Ezulwini Sun |
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Day 5
Mkuze Mkuze is a small town situated just to the west of the Mkuze Game Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa in the Mkuze River valley. Mkuze lies between the N2 highway (linking it to Durban) and the Lebombo Mountains. Nearby there is a small village called Jozini. Enjoy a morning visit to the Swazi Candle Factory where each candle is made and finished by hand using the age-old technique “millefiore”. No two are the same and the range boasts an astonishing array of patterns, shapes and designs. Continue via Big Bend into KwaZulu Natal. Arrive at your hotel in the afternoon, in time to embark on an afternoon scenic drive up the Ubombo Mountains, offering views over Lake Jozini. At the summit and as the setting sun transforms the sky into a tapestry of colours, stop for sundowners. The drive will be combined with a visit to a local and authentic Zulu homestead for a glimpse into Zulu life in today’s world. Return to the hotel for dinner on the terrace (weather permitting) or in the classically styled restaurant. At the foot of the legendary Ghost Mountain in Mkuze, northern KwaZulu Natal lies the privately owned 4 Star Ghost Mountain Inn - a perfect setting to experience the allure of Africa in stylish comfort. This intimate and beautiful hotel is the ideal location from which to explore the array of wildlife and coastal reserves in Maputaland and the Elephant Coast. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the abundance of wildlife and the scenic splendors of this rich and diverse region during game drives, guided walks and boat cruises in the company of knowledgeable rangers . Back at the hotel, the spa offers a range of skin and body treatments and healthy lunches in a tranquil environment. Those who prefer the relaxing sound of birdsong and the warmth of the African sun will find their respite at the poolside within the glorious gardens of Ghost Mountain Inn . Overnight at Ghost Mountain Inn. |
 Zulu Culture |
 Ghost Mountain Inn |
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Day 6
Mkuze Today you will transfer to the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve for a full day of game viewing. The Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve covers a combined area of 90 000ha and it was here that the white rhino was saved from extinction. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. End the day with dinner at the hotel. Overnight at Ghost Mountain Inn. |
 Hluhluwe Rhino's |
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Day 7
Durban Durban (Zulu: eThekwini) is the third most populous city in South Africa, forming part of the eThekwini metropolitan municipality. It is the largest city in KwaZulu-Natal and is famous as the busiest port in Africa. It is also a major centre of tourism due to the city's warm subtropical climate and beaches. Continue the journey along the Elephant Coast of KwaZulu Natal to St Lucia, located at the southern extremity of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park – a World Heritage Site. Here you embark on an estuarine boat trip which provides an opportunity to view crocodiles, hippo and numerous bird species, including the elusive African Kingfisher Eagle, in their natural habitat. Continue to Durban, where east meets west; a city beneath which beats the pulse of Africa. Arrive during the afternoon at your hotel which is located on the Gold Mile – Durban’s distinctive beach front Southern Sun Elangeni is situated on Durban's North Beach with breathtaking views of Durban's Golden Mile and the warm Indian Ocean. Business and leisure travellers will enjoy fine service and hospitality at one of Durban's premier hotels. The light, spacious lobby is the focal point where friendly, efficient staff provide a warm welcome. Overnight at Southern Sun Elangeni . |
 Durban |
 iSimangaliso Wetland Park |
 Southern Sun Elangeni |
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Day 8
Port Elizabeth Port Elizabeth or known as Madiba Bay is a city in South Africa, situated in the Eastern Cape Province, 770km east of Cape Town. The city, often shortened to PE and nicknamed "The Friendly City" or "The Windy City", stretches for 16km along Algoa Bay, and is one of the major seaports in South Africa. Located at the end of the picturesque Garden Route along the Cape, the city is one of South Africa's major destinations for tourists, many of whom come simply to enjoy the many fine beaches in and near the city. This morning you will embark on a brief Durban City Tour where you will spend the morning discovering the cultural and historical contrasts of the city. After departing your hotel, we travel along the "Golden Mile" with it's beaches, curio sellers, rickshaw pullers and hotels. Arriving at the harbour entrance we stop for photos and a brief discussion on the origins of the city. A slow drive through the city centre offers an ideal opportunity to see the historic Farewell Square and the classic architecture of the City Hall, Central Post Office, Play House and Local History Museum. A drive along the winding Victoria Embankment is followed by a drive through the leafy suburbs of the Berea before our arrival at the Killie Campbell Museum, formerly the home of the Campbell family who were prominent philanthropists and collectors. A short tour follows and we will be taken through this grand old house with its beautiful furniture and art collection and the Mashu Museum of Ethnology, which includes artworks, cultural artefacts and an extensive beadwork collection reflecting the colourful and vigorous tradition of the Zulu people. After this fascinating interlude we make our way across the Berea to the stately Kings House and grand old homes of the area before arriving at the Botanic Gardens. Founded in 1849 as an agricultural society {where various crops were grown on an experimental basis}, the gardens are now home to an incredible variety of both exotic and indigenous flora as well as a number of varied resident birds. This afternoon you'll fly to Port Elizabeth. Travel time is approximately 1 hour. Stunning contemporary architecture, chic urban interiors and breath-taking views over the expansive, sparkling Indian Ocean are what make the Radisson Blu the first choice of stay when visiting pretty Port Elizabeth. Throw in international brand luxury and a refreshing ‘Yes, I can!’ service spirit... and you have a hotel where deliciously indulgent breaks and one-stop successful meetings are both 100% guaranteed. Overnight at Radisson Blu. |
 Port Elizabeth |
 Durban |
 Radisson Blu |
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Day 9
Plettenberg Bay Often remarked that "Nature has made an enchanted abode of this beautiful place", it is truly a spectacular destination. Only an hour from George Airport and two hours from Port Elizabeth Airport , Plettenberg Bay is well situated to explore the tourism offerings and activities of our surrounding towns from Knysna to Oudtshoorn along Route 62 and the N2. Plettenberg Bay and environs stretches from Harkerville just outside Knysna through to Nature's Valley along the N2. This spectacular area also includes the towns of Keurbooms with miles of unspoilt golden beaches and excellent land based whale watching along the coast, the Crags which is the artistic heart and Polo mecca of the area, KwaNokuthula, New Horizons and Kranshoek for a fusion of tourism and conservation of diverse and charismatic cultures and nature. Depart Port Elizabeth and travel via the coastline to the beautiful Tsitsikamma National Park. Described as the ‘garden of the Garden Route’, the Tsitsikamma actually deserves a more vivid description to encapsulate the beauty of the place. Enjoy a walk along the suspension bridge across the Storms River mouth gorge which offers visitors incredible views and photo opportunities. Continue to Plettenberg Bay for dinner and overnight. Unsurpassed service and understated comfort, ensure a totally relaxed and truly South African experience...This exclusive Country House set on a 24 acre estate with distant mountain views - is perfectly positioned between Knysna and Plettenberg Bay in the heart of South Africa's Garden Route. An ideal getaway for those wanting to enjoy gracious country living, Laird's Lodge offers easy access to unspoiled beaches, world class golf courses, scenic nature reserves and hiking trails. Overnight at Laird’s Lodge. |
 Plettenberg Bay |
 Storms River |
 Laird's Lodge Country Inn |
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Day 10
Plettenberg Bay After breakfast, get up-close-and-personal with nature at the Knysna Elephant Park. With the help of the resident African elephants and the well-informed guides, you will learn about the sad and mystical story of the Knysna Elephants. The visit presents you with the opportunity to touch, feed and photograph these gentle giants. After lunch (to own account), travel to Plettenberg Bay for a visit to Birds of Eden – the largest free-flight bird aviary in the world. Birds of Eden stems from the need to create a safe environment in which to release a large collection of free-flight African birds and the sanctuary also enables bird owners to apply to release their pet birds into the sanctuary, after undergoing rehabilitation. Time permitting you have the option of embarking on a Whale & Dolphin boat experience (weather permitting and to own account) before returning to the lodge. Dinner and overnight. Overnight at Laird’s Lodge. |
 Knysna Elephant Park |
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Day 11
Oudtshoorn Oudtshoorn is the largest town in the Little Karoo region of South Africa. The town is home to the world's largest Ostrich population with a number of specialized ostrich breeding farms such as the Safari Show Farm and the Highgate Ostrich Show Farm. After breakfast and check-out formalities, proceed to the lagoon side town of Knysna – the gem of the Garden Route. Enjoy some time at leisure at the Knysna Waterfront Complex before embarking on a fun and adventurous cruise to and INTO the Knysna Heads (weather permitting) on board the Three Legs Rivercat – one of the most advanced river cruisers ever built. On return to the mainland, continue to Oudtshoorn – the ‘feather capital’ of the world due to its large ostrich industry. Visit a working ostrich farm for a guided tour. Check into your accommodation in the late afternoon before enjoying dinner. If you are a discerning traveller looking for luxury 4 star accommodation in the picturesque valley of Schoemanshoek, near the world famous Cango Caves of Oudtshoorn, then you need to look no further. De Opstal Country Lodge has come to be by way of converting exisitng buildings, into a modern, elegant property with all the luxurious of a 4 star hotel. Overnight at De Opstal Country Lodge . |
 Oudshoorn's Ostrich |
 Oudtshoorn |
 De Opstal Country Lodge |
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Day 12
Cape Town Cape Town is the second most populous city in South Africa, famous for its harbour as well as its natural setting in the Cape floral kingdom, including such well-known landmarks as Table Mountain and Cape Point. Popular day activities include; Robben Island (Nelson Mandela's prison), Cape Point, Stellenbosch winery tour, diamond buying shops, and great white shark diving. Breakfast and check-out of the hotel. Enjoy a morning tour of the Cango Caves before departing Oudtshoorn. The Cango Caves is one of the natural wonders of the world and has become a major draw-card to the Karoo area. Just 29km from Oudtshoorn, at the head of the picturesque Cango Valley, lies the spectacular underground wonder of the Klein Karoo - the Cango Caves. You'll explore this incredible place either with the standard tour or the adventure tour. Your guide will help you in making your decision!. Afterward, travel via Route 62 to Barrydale for lunch (to own account). Arrive in Cape Town around 18h00. Nestled between the majestic Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean, the Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town hotel is ideally situated. It is well sited close to the entrance to the city's premier leisure complex - The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, and is a short 15-minute drive from Cape Town International Airport. A variety of beaches, as well as the city centre, are also within close reach, making this property one of Cape Town's finest! Overnight at Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town. |
 Cape Town |
 Cango Caves |
 Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town Hotel |
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Day 13
Cape Town Today we embark on a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula. We take in the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, before crossing over to Hout Bay, where you may choose to join an optional boat cruise to Seal Island. From here we drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve via Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal drives, where you will board a funicular to the top of the Peninsula to witness the symbolic meeting of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans as well as have spectacular views over False Bay. We enjoy lunch near here (not included – own account) before continuing to Simonstown, the naval base, and visiting the African Penguin breeding colony at Boulders Beach. En route back we stop at the world renowned Kirstenbosch Gardens before returning back to your hotel. Overnight at Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town. |
 Cape of Good Hope |
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Day 14
Cape Town You will be met this morning by your guide and set off for the Winelands, a delightful drive which winds its way through superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads. Our first stop is Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, with canal lined avenues, and magnificent examples of Cape Dutch architecture where we enjoy our first wine tasting, coupled with a chocolate and dessert tasting. Onward over the scenic Helshoogte Pass, to Franschhoek, founded by French Huguenots over 350 years ago, and widely regarded as the culinary capital of South Africa. Its beautiful setting and café lined streets will charm you and a further wine tasting is included at one of the renowned estates here. Our final stop is at the town of Paarl, at the foot of a cluster of remarkable granite domes where we enjoy our final wine tasting before heading back to Cape Town. Overnight at Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town. |
 Winelands |
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Day 15
Cape Town Today you will be met by your guide for an exploration of Cape Town, known affectionately as the Mother City. Your tour will take in the Houses of Parliament, the Castle (built between 1666 and 1679, this is South Africa’s oldest building), lively Greenmarket Square with its daily market, the Company Gardens and of course Table Mountain which will give you spectacular views over the city and Peninsula (cable car fee is not included as it is weather dependent). On our descent, we stop at the Bo Kaap, home to the Cape Malay community, with its cobbled streets and brightly coloured houses. Your tour ends with drop-off at Cape Town International Airport. Depart from Cape Town international airport - end of itinerary. Overnight at Depart. |
 Malay Quarter |
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