Egypt has dazzled visitors with its archaeological wonders for centuries, ever since the Ancient Greeks visited the pyramids. From the dizzying spectacle of Giza to the millennia old tombs and temples of Luxor, the country transports the visitor back to the first great civilization in humankind. East Africa is the best place for the quintessential safari experience. It is a startlingly beautiful land, with the most magnificent wildlife and scenery. Kenya is the regional hub, featuring one of the top game parks in the world, The Masai Mara. Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders) is situated in southern Africa on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls are, by some measures, the largest waterfall in the world, as well as being among the most unusual in form, and having arguably the most diverse and easily seen wildlife of any major waterfall site. You will enjoy a guided tour of the falls, as well as a sunset cruise on the Zambezi river. Cape Town, South Africa's most popular travel destination has rightfully earned its reputation as one of the world's most beautiful cities. Transfixed between Table Mountain and seven spectacular ocean beaches, it is a rare blend of cosmopolitan sophistication and African culture.

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.

Kensington Tours donates a portion of proceeds to our charitable initiative www.kensingtoncares.com which supports education-based initiatives in disadvantaged communities.

Upon arrival into South Africa you will be met at the door of the plane and escorted through Customs and Immigration avoiding any queues. You will also 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).

Enjoy a private transfer between the airport and your hotel.

The Cape Cadogan is a stately double-storeyed Georgian and Victorian building that dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. It was originally a farmhouse which was ‘Victorianised’ in 1912 and declared a national monument in 1984.

Overnight at Cape Cadogan .

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.

Overnight at Cape Cadogan .

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 Cape Cadogan .

Today a resident Winelands guide will join you for a tailor made wine experience, exploring the best this area has to offer. Your day can include Paarl with its imposing Afrikaans Language Monument and estates such as Seidelberg and Fairview - and of course the Franschhoek Valley, including exceptional estates such as Haute Cabriere Moreson, La Motte and Grande Provence. You will delight in the cheese tastings in the 200 year old barn at La Grange Fromagerie, chocolate tasting at the Franschhoek Chocolate factory and lunch at one of the top estates (own account but wine tastings included). Return to Franshhoek town with some time to relax before heading back to your hotel.

Overnight at Cape Cadogan .

The Victoria Falls or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders) is a waterfall situated in southern Africa on the Zambezi River between the countries of Zambia and Zimbabwe. The falls are, by some measures, the largest waterfall in the world, as well as being among the most unusual in form, and having arguably the most diverse and easily seen wildlife of any major waterfall site. The town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe used to be the primary destination at the falls, but recent political tensions have reduced the number of visitors. It has an excellent number of hotels, souvenir markets and other local attractions.

Enjoy a private transfer between the airport and your hotel.

Take your flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg today. The flight duration is approximately 2 hrs. Flight times confirmed when booked.

Take your flight from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls today.  Travel time is approximately 1.5 hours.

Upon arrival at Victoria Falls airport you will be transferred to your lodge.

This evening you are transferred to the jetty, where you board a comfortable vessel with plenty of seating, open sides and a canopied roof. From here you cruise along towards Palm lsland and Kandahar lsland to enjoy a picturesque African sunset on the Zambezi River. This cruise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the River, with the opportunity to see a variety of game; including hippo, crocodile, elephant and many different bird species. Your cruise includes finger snacks, beer, wine, local spirits and soft drinks, framed by many beautiful photo opportunities.

For almost 100 years, visiting members of Royal families, international and local statesmen, and celebrities worldwide, have preferred to stay at The Victoria Falls Hotel, where they are assured of privacy and care. An atmosphere steeped in history, combining the charm of the old with the comfort and convenience of today.  It is one hotel that can truly claim to be unique.

Overnight at Victoria Falls Hotel.

Start your day with a guided tour of the Falls by foot, a sight that never fails to impress. Waterproof clothing is provided for the drenching spray as you approach via the Devil’s Cataract, one of the best vantage points. This afternoon, you will have the chance to join one of the many optional activities that this area has to offer, including helicopter flights over the Falls, elephant back safaris, lion cub encounters, jet boating and a tour of a local village and the craft market.

Overnight at Victoria Falls Hotel.

Chobe National Park is approximately two hours from Victoria Falls. Your road transfer takes you to the point where the four countries of Zimbabwe, Zambia, Namibia and Botswana meet.  Your safari begins with a river game viewing cruise on the Chobe River with refreshments while the boat takes you close up to the wildlife and waterfowl along the river.  The cruise ends at around 12h30 and you are taken to one of the riverbank hotels for lunch.  After lunch, spend the afternoon on 4x4 safari vehicles game viewing in the Chobe National Park, an opportunity to see the abundance and variety of wildlife that Chobe is renowned for. This long day activity gets you back to your hotel by about 18h00. Please remember your passport for the border crossing.

Overnight at Victoria Falls Hotel.

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 at Victoria Falls airport you will be transferred to your lodge.

Take your flight from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg today.  Flight time is approximately 1 hour and 40 minutes.

Airport transfer to/from your hotel with private vehicle

The pristine four-star Protea Hotel OR Tambo is set in the heart of Kempton Park, minutes from OR Tambo International Airport, South Africa’s largest airport. Themed around an aircraft hangar, the industrial ambiance of the Hotel is felt in the polished concrete floors, steel finishes, chrome lighting and top to bottom windows that overlook the aeroplanes as they dock and take off.

Overnight at Protea Hotel Tambo Airport.

Nairobiis the least expensive arrival city for flights with a full range of hotels and local attractions. Dubbed the “Safari Capital of the World,” cool, clear and cosmopolitanNairobiis the natural departure point for most safari itineraries. A city of contrasts, it is simultaneously the largest, the youngest, the most modern, the highest (1700m) and the fastest growing city inEast Africa. High-altitudeNairobienjoys a pleasant tropical climate all year round. There are ATMs and banks to stock up on cash, great restaurants, and malls where you can purchase any forgotten items.

Airport transfer to/from your hotel with private vehicle

Take your flight from Johannesburg to Nairobi today.  Travel time is approximately 4 hours.

You will receive a private airport transfer to/from the airport.

The Fairmont Norfolk Hotel is situated in the centre of the bustling city of Nairobi, in Kenya, and has grown over time with the city. Surrounded by private tropical gardens, the 168 guest rooms are comfortable and with all the necessities of home. Dining is offered at a number of onsite restaurants, and the breakfast buffet is especially delightful. Spend some time getting to know the city, and then escape to the tranquility of the hotel. Or, get into shape at the fitness center and swimming pool.

Overnight at The Norfolk Hotel.

Nakuru is the provincial capital of Kenya's Rift Valley province, and is the fourth largest urban centre in the country. Lake Nakuru is one of the Rift Valley soda lakes and provides the visitors with one of Kenya’s best known images, thousands of flamingos joined into a massive flock. A pulsing pink swathe of life that carpets the water, the flamingos are a breathtaking sight. The lake forms part of the Lake Nakuru National Park which has good game viewing for a day safari.

Your guide will drive you to Lake Nakuru today, through Nairobi and rural Kenya. The drive will be about an hour and a half.

Lake Nakuru is one of the Rift Valley soda lakes. The lake's abundance of algae attracts the vast quantity of flamingos that famously lines the shore. Other birds also flourish in the area, as do warthogs, baboons and other large mammals. Black and White rhinos have also been introduced.

The Sarova Lion Hill Lodge overlooks Lake Nakuru, and sits within the Lake Nakuru National Park, where flamingos and rich animal life wander and spend their day. The 67 chalets all enjoy a wonderful view of the wealth of game. The lodge is one of the only accommodations in the area, and it does its best to please guests with friendly staff and care, continuously upholding the reputation for hospitality at Sarova Hotels. Dining takes place at the restaurant or bar, or one may request a bush breakfast or lunch. Cuisine ranges from local to continental. Activities include a dip in the swimming pool, a visit to the beauty and massage treatment specialists, or taking some time out to observe the surrounding animal habitats.

Overnight at Lion Hill Sarova.

Masai Mara is the northernmost portion of the larger Serengeti ecosystem and features the best game viewing in the region. The small size funnels animals into a tight space, and park rules allow for off-road driving which means that guests can venture into plains covered with hundreds or even thousands of animals. Take an optional hot air balloon ride over the plains, with the opportunity for amazing pictures of the animal herds below.

Your guide will drive you from Nakuru to Masai Mara. This drive will take about 5 to 6 hours. In rainy season  drive times may be longer (April/early May and Nov). If you like, stop for refreshments and souvenir shopping at roadside stands along the way or head straight to the park. Enjoy game viewing as you enter Masai Mara and drive to your camp.

This afternoon's game viewing will be exciting as you are searching for game with your private guide and driver. The leopard is difficult to see as it moves fast and is very shy. If you're lucky there is a good chance to spot them around water holes or up in a tree after a long, hot day.

Kensington Mara West Camp has been revamped and relocated to what is surely one of the best views in East Africa. Perched elegantly on the Ololoolo escarpment, forming the western boundary of the Masai Mara Reserve itself. This is the authentic Out of Africa experience where much of the original film itself was filmed & produced. The camp borders the remote and beautiful western edge of Masai Mara National Reserve. Kensington Mara West provides nature lovers with deluxe accommodations while experiencing the sights and sounds of an unforgettable African safari. Tents offer rustic charm surrounded by grassy fields. Chalets are perched in secluded spots on an escarpment edge overlooking the vast plains of the Masai Mara Game Reserve, giving tremendous views and a sense of private exclusion.

Overnight at Kensington Mara West.

Masai Mara is named after the traditional inhabitants (Maasai) and the Mara River. At some point during your stay in the Mara, you'll drive by the river, which is a great place to spot wildlife. This area is a photographer's delight where with any luck you'll be able to take amazing pictures of the hippos and elephants in the water.

On today’s afternoon game drive the choice is up to you: search for the Big 5 or expand your horizons to discover something different. Masai Mara not only has a rich mix of animals – it also has an incredible array of bird life with almost 450 different species.

Overnight at Kensington Mara West.

Today you'll set out early on your morning game drive with your private guide and vehicle. The Mara is most famous for its exceptional population of game and the annual migration of zebra, Thomson's gazelle and the wildebeest from the Serengeti every year from July to October.

This afternoon you'll meet up with your guide and head out on your game drive. Mara is one of the few places you could spot the rare rhino. Stay alert as you track these elusive lumbering giants.

Overnight at Kensington Mara West.

Your guide will drive you from Masai Mara to Nairobi, with short stop-overs for refreshments and souvenirs. Be aware that during this commute you will drive across some unfinished patches of road. This drive will take approximately 6 hours.

The Fairmont Norfolk Hotel is situated in the centre of the bustling city of Nairobi, in Kenya, and has grown over time with the city. Surrounded by private tropical gardens, the 168 guest rooms are comfortable and with all the necessities of home. Dining is offered at a number of onsite restaurants, and the breakfast buffet is especially delightful. Spend some time getting to know the city, and then escape to the tranquility of the hotel. Or, get into shape at the fitness center and swimming pool.

Overnight at The Norfolk Hotel.

Cairo is the capital of Egypt and the hub of the country. Millennia of history have made it one of the most fascinating places in the world. The Egyptian Museum whose 107 halls feature huge statues on the ground floor, and small statues, jewels, Tutankhamon treasures and the mummies on upper floors. Other downtown sights include the Saladin Citadel and Mohamed Ali Mosque, and Khan Khalili bazaar. Nearby Giza is famous for the Pyramids of Egypt, among the largest constructions ever built.

You will receive a private airport transfer to/from the airport.

Take your flight from Nairobi to Cairo today. The flight duration is approximately 6 hours.

Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.

This private half day tour consists of the Saladin Citadel with Mohamed Ali Mosque, and Khan Khalili bazaar. Your private guide will take you up to the hilltop Citadel for some exploring. This 12th century medieval fortress contains the mosque in-which the tomb of the Ottoman ruler Mohamed Ali is located. Your guide then escorts you through Islamic Cairo towards the fabled bazaar, filled with antiquities and exotic treats. This tour includes a private vehicle, driver and an expert guide.

The Mena House Oberoi stands tall, yet guarded by the mighty heights of the Great Pyramids of Cairo. Fascinating guests since 1869, the 523 room hotel has continuously held the attention of royalty, political thinkers, and celebrities over time. A range of continental dining and Egyptian specialty restaurants and bars satisfy even the most critical of appetites. The Mena House grants guests the opportunity to relax or stay active by checking out its golf courses, horse and camel stables, and extensive fitness options. Wander a few steps outside the hotel and you may run smack into a pyramid. Forty acres of jasmine-scented gardens will leave their scent on those who depart the hotel. It’s hard to leave this embellished haven of lush furnishings, oriental prints, and hand-woven fabrics.

Overnight at Mena House Oberoi Garden.

Enjoy this tour which explores the relics of ages past, and includes visits to ancient Memphis, Saqqara and the Great Pyramids of Giza. Already millennia old by the birth of Christ, the elaborate statues and astonishing scale of these sites will amaze all who visit. This tour also features the famous Sphinx, whose constructor's still remains unknown, but its sheer beauty and allure has mystified the likes of Alexander the Great and Napoleon Bonaparte. This tour includes a private vehicle, a driver, and a highly trained Egyptologist, and entry to either Chephren (Khafre) or Menkaure (Mycerinus) pyramids, as well as the Solar boat. Entrance to the Pyramids come with an additional cost, and be aware that a limited number of people are allowed inside daily, so arrive early so you will not be disappointed.

Enjoy a personalized lunch with your guide at a great local restaurant.

Overnight at Mena House Oberoi Garden.

Luxor, site of ancient Thebes, and the "world's greatest open air museum". Notable sights on the east bank include the Temple of Karnak and Luxor Temple. On the west bank is the spectacular Valley of the Kings. For a period of nearly 500 years from the 16th to 11th century BC, tombs were constructed for the kings and powerful nobles, including Tutankhamun. The nearby Valley of the Queens is said to hold more than seventy tombs.

Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.

Take your flight from Cairo to Luxor. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

Airport transfer with a private vehicle and English-speaking driver in Luxor.

Enjoy a private tour with a qualified Egyptologist guide exploring the East Bank of Luxor. Visit the most impressive temples of Karnak and Luxor, while learning about ancient Egyptian history from your own personal guide. Start your day with a visit to the Temples of Karnak. Walk along the Avenue of Sphinx to enter the complex as your guide explains how the massive facade was constructed. Continue to Luxor Temple which was once joined to the Temples of Karnak by a two-kilometre long Avenue of Sphinx, a portion of which marks the entrance to the temple. Your private guide will offer interpretation and guide you through the most important parts of the temples.

On the shores of the Nile, at the core of Luxor’s ancient soul, sits the Steigenberger Nile Palace. The regal structure stands tall. It begs come hither for curious visitors to witness the glory of the Egyptian Kingdom. The hotel’s 304 rooms and suites are designed to fit the lifestyles of those demanding a combination of comfort, contemporary decor, and panache. Quench your visual and cultural thirsts, with the option of stunning river views or an eyeful of lively streets and the courtyard. Enact gastronomic fantasies with Lebanese cuisine and succulent grilled meats. Wander the city and become immersed in burial places, temples, and museums. Or, pamper yourself with the numerous facilities offered at the Steigenberger Nile Palace, including a spa and swimming pools.

Overnight at Steigenberger Nile Palace .

This morning you will meet up with your guide and explore some of the most incredible sites of the country. You will visit the Valley of the Kings where you will have the chance to explore three tombs. For a period of nearly 500 years from the 16th to 11th century BC, tombs were constructed for the kings and powerful nobles of the New Kingdom (the Eighteenth to the Twentieth Dynasties of Ancient Egypt). The valley stands on the west bank of the Nile, opposite modern Luxor. Then it's off to the nearby Valley of the Queens and also the recently renovated mortuary temple of Queen Hatshepsut. Hatshepsut was the second pharaoh of the eighteenth dynasty of Ancient Egypt. She is generally regarded by Egyptologists as one of the most successful pharaohs, reigning longer than any other woman of an indigenous Egyptian dynasty. The tour includes a visit to the huge Colossi of Memnon which are all that remain of the mortuary temple of Amenhotep III.

Visit the Tombs of the Nobles, Habu Temple and Deir El Madina as extensions to your private West Bank tour.

Overnight at Steigenberger Nile Palace .

Airport transfer with a private vehicle and English-speaking driver in Luxor.

Take your early morning flight from Luxor to Cairo. The flight duration is approximately 1 hour.

This full day tour includes a private tour with your trained Egyptologist guide through the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities and its Mummy Room, which houses priceless archaeological finds including the treasures of Tutankhamun and the Greco/Roman period. In the afternoon visit Saladin Citadel, a spectacular medieval fortress built by the renowned leader himself and dating back from the 12th century. Here you will explore the mosque and tomb of the Ottoman ruler Mohamed Ali, whom laid the foundation for the modern nation of Egypt. Later, on a walking tour, you will get to stroll through the fabled Khan Khalili bazaar, absorbing the sights, scents, exotic treats and energy of this ancient yet vibrant meeting place.

Enjoy a Nile River dinner cruise aboard the "Nile Maxim" or "Nile Pharoh", one of the most elegant cruising restaurants sailing the world's longest waterway. You'll enjoy top-class service aboard your Nile cruise, gliding past Cairo's illuminated skyline while you dine, and with entertainment provided by a spectacular belly-dancing and folklore show. The "Nile Maxim" is built in the style of a flat pharaonic barge, conjuring up images of ancient Egypt. As you drift along the River Nile, the house band performs your all-time favorite Western and Oriental tunes – with a twist! Choose from the set menu or go for the a la carte selection offering seafood, Lebanese and Chinese cuisines. Then sit back and relax while you enjoy a colorful belly dancing show with a folklore band, featuring the unforgettable tannoura spin, in keeping with Egypt's whirling dervishes tradition. Sample Set menu (subject to change without notice):

Selection of fresh breads, Salad bar, Grilled Chicken with herbs, served with rice and vegetables, Nougat glace, Sample A la Carte menu (subject to change without notice):

Tehina salad, Green spices salad, Fried Kofta, Fried shrimps, Different kinds of rice and macaroni, Special dessert menu. Includes pick up and drop off from your hotel.

The recently renovated Cairo Marriott Hotel, situated at the centre of the city, is surrounded by lush gardens and with a 19th century palace in its midst, on the Nile River. The grand hotel’s 1250 rooms are well appointed, with splendid views of the city and the Nile. One may take meals in any of the restaurants or cafes, which are reasonably priced and enjoyable, and feature especially hospitable staff. The city of Cairo is in itself a bustling source of amusement and history, including the Pyramids, though some guests prefer to stay on the hotel grounds and make use of the fitness centre or swimming pools.

Overnight at Marriott .

Transfer to/from Cairo Airport in private vehicle with English speaking driver.

Depart from Cairo international airport - end of itinerary.

Overnight at Depart.