South Africa












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Trip summary statistics
11days
Cape, Rovos Rail & Kruger
Cape Town, South Africa, Kimberley, Pretoria, Johannesburg, Skukuza, Sabi Sands
Discover Cape Town’s beauty, from Clifton’s sands to Kirstenbosch’s colorful gardens.
Set off on a scenic drive to Boulders Beach for a close encounter with playful penguins.
Board Rovos Rail for an exclusive adventure, where luxury dining meets lush vineyard views.
Discover Kimberley’s Big Hole, a mesmerizing glimpse into South Africa’s diamond rush era.
Spot the Big 5 on game drives and foot tours, curated by your Destination Expert.
* Please note: USD per person, double occupancy. Custom designed personal tour. Prices subject to change.
A travel experience like no other
This sample itinerary was created by experts and is meant to inspire your next trip. It is ready to be customized to suit your interests, tastes and budget so you can connect with local cultures and experience authentic travel on your own terms and departing whenever you choose.
Cape TownGet Settled
- VIP Meet & Greet
- Welcome to Southern Africa
- Private Airport Transfer
Cape TownBreathe the Mountain Air
- Half Day City & Table Mountain - Private Tour
- Victoria & Alfred Waterfront At Leisure
- Restaurant Recommendations
Cape TownVenture into the Outdoors
- Cape Point and Peninsula (with Lunch) - Private Tour
- Dinner Reservations & Car Service
Cape Town to South AfricaAll Aboard!
- Hotel-Train Station - Vehicle/Driver
- 14:00-15:45PM - Boarding the Pride of Africa
- 16:00PM - Depart Cape Town
- 16:30PM - High Tea Service
- 19:30PM - Dinner Service
- 21:00PM - Leisure
Ride the Rails
- 7:00-10AM - Breakfast Service
- 8:00AM - Arrive at Matjiesfontein
- 9:50AM - Return to Matjiesfontein Station
- 10:00AM - Depart Matjiesfontein
- 13:00PM - Lunch Service
- 16:30PM - High Tea Service
- 19:30PM - Dinner Service
- 21:00PM - Leisure
KimberleyA Town Frozen in Time
- 6:00-8:30AM - Breakfast Service
- 8:30-11:30AM - Arrive at Kimberly
- Depart Kimberly
- 12:00PM - Lunch Service
- 16:30PM - High Tea Service
- 19:30PM - Dinner Service
- 21:00PM - Leisure
Pretoria to JohannesburgYou’ve Arrived
- 7:00-9:30AM - Breakfast Service
- 10:00AM - Arrival into Pretoria
- Pretoria (1 hr) - Vehicle/Driver
Johannesburg to Skukuza to Sabi SandsOnward and Upward
- Pretoria (1 hr) - Vehicle/Driver
- Johannesburg - Skukuza
- Skukuza Airport to Sabi Sands (25 min) - Shared
Sabi SandsUnder African Skies
- Morning Game Drive
- Optional: Spa & Wellness at Lion Sands
- Night Game Drive
Sabi SandsElusive Creatures
- Morning Walking Safari
- Afternoon Game Drive
- Dining at Lion Sands
Sabi Sands to Skukuza to JohannesburgBon Voyage
- Early Morning Game Drive
- Sabi Sands to Skukuza Airport (25 min) - Shared
- Skukuza - Johannesburg
CAPE TOWN

Get Settled
Upon arrival to Cape Town, you will be welcomed at the door of your aircraft by a local representative holding a sign with your name on it. Alongside your assistant, you will be directed through immigration, baggage collection and customs.
Meet your private driver for an airport transfer.
Where you’ll be staying
Fairmont Harbour View Room
CAPE TOWN





Breathe the Mountain Air
Beat the crowds and start the day early with your private guide by visiting Cape Town’s most iconic landmark, Table Mountain. One of the most spectacularly bio-diverse places on Earth, an estimated 1,500 unique species of plant-life are found on Table Mountain alone, many of which are endemic and found nowhere else on the planet. Ascend by cable car as the mist from the clouds open up to the main plateau while striking views of Cape Town come into crystal-clear focus. Now with a better understanding of the city’s layout, walk past Cape Town’s storied past as your guide recounts the colorful histories of the Houses of Parliament, the Castle of Good Hope (South Africa’s oldest building) and the well-tended Company Gardens. Bargain your way through the lively Greenmarket Square in search of souvenir while meeting local artisans along the way. As you enter another one of Cape Town’s famed stop at Bo-Kaap, learn how the Cape Malay community, with its cobbled streets and brightly colored houses became one of city’ most vibrant neighborhoods. There’s no better way of understanding local history than through your Capetonian guide. From here you have the choice of being dropped off at the V&A Waterfront to experience this landmark at your own pace, with its many shops, restaurants and pubs - or at your hotel to end the tour. Should you choose to visit the waterfront, please speak to your Destination Expert for a range of recommendations for lunch.
The V&A Waterfront is surely one of the top attractions in Cape Town no matter your age, interests or group dynamic. To name a few highlights, the Two Oceans Aquarium is home to an incredible array of exotic, seemingly other-worldly creatures from the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Behind the aquarium, a small colony of Cape fur seals are almost always found on the docks, ready and waiting to pose for your camera. Chavonnes Battery, Cape Town’s first fortification, is now a museum with artifacts from centuries past. At the heart of the waterfront lies the Clock Tower of Cape Town. For your shopping needs, a visit to the Victoria Wharf Shopping Center is the perfect stopover for designer items and authentic Cape souvenirs.
From street-side tapas to award winning cuisine, let our Destination Experts help you find the right dining option for your appetite. Some of our favorite spots include; Chef’s Warehouse, Bistro Sixteen82, The Foodbarn, Potluck Club, Plant, Shortmarket Club, Harbour House and Black Sheep Restaurant. To arrange reservations at any of these restaurants, speak to your Destination Expert. Please note: Reservations are subject to availability.
Where you’ll be staying
Fairmont Harbour View Room
CAPE TOWN




Venture into the Outdoors
After meeting your expert local guide in Cape Town, begin the day with a visit to one of the more popular leisure hubs for locals – the glorious beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, where impressive white sand beaches hug the shoreline with the Twelve Apostles as a stunning backdrop. Learn about the fascinating history of this breathtaking land from your Capetonian guide as you begin the spectacular sea-side drive to the quaint village of Hout Bay. After a stop in the village, you will track along the extraordinary Chapman’s Peak Drive, known as one of the most picturesque roadways world-wide. With the flexibility to spend as little or as long as you would like in this region crammed with incredible panoramic lookouts, the benefits of having a private vehicle and guide truly come into play. Further along you will reach the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve where, at Cape Point, you will board a funicular or walk up the stairway that leads to the Cape Point Lighthouse; it is here that you will observe dramatic coastal scenery and fantastic views of False Bay. Departing from Cape Point, head northward to Simon’s Town to enjoy lunch (included). Although the city is host to a number of tasty dining options, consider indulging in fresh-caught fish & chips, the town’s specialty. After a refreshing lunch and a bit of time to learn about Simon’s Town, set off with your camera ready to visit Boulders Beach, a nearby nature preserve that is home to a colony of African penguins. Wrapping up your day’s adventure, tour the idyllic Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a sprawling park brimming with rare and exotic plant-life that is surely one the finest examples of botany the world over, before being returned to your hotel.
Sophisticated fine dining, Japanese-Peruvian modern fusion, fresh-caught south Atlantic seafood, and farm-to-table organic delights complimented by incredible views and award-winning, locally-sourced wines; Cape Town has it all. Tonight, discover this buzzing gastronomic scene firsthand. Reservations will be made in advance at the restaurant of your choice, and round-trip transportation in a private vehicle will also be provided. Among many options for high-end dining in Cape Town, the most highly recommended by our Destination Experts are: Aubergine, Nobu, La Colombe, Signal, Roundhouse, Greenhouse, FYN and La Moutte. Please note: Your meal is not included and will be paid for on location. Reservations are confirmed at the time of booking and are subject to availability.
Where you’ll be staying
Fairmont Harbour View Room
CAPE TOWN TO SOUTH AFRICA
All Aboard!
Enjoy a private transfer between your hotel and Cape Town train station.
Allow for plenty of time to settle into your suite, as the Pride of Africa is prepped for departure.
The Pride of Africa departs the Cape Town Station in the afternoon hours, en route to Pretoria, trundling through the winelands of the Western Cape towards Worcester.
As in many of the scenic South African train trips, the Pride of Africa keeps with tradition and offers a High Tea service before dinner. This is the ideal opportunity to mingle amongst the guest and staff aboard the train.
Dinner is served in one sitting only, in the charming Victorian atmosphere of the dining cars, which are complemented by a selection of fine South African wines. The sound of a "gong" heralds dinner.
The evening is free to roam around the train, spend time in the lounge area, or indulge in some well deserved rest and relaxation.
Ride the Rails
A delicious breakfast is served in the dining cars until 10am this morning.
Upon arrival into Matjiesfontein Station, enjoy a tour of the platform museum and Victorian architecture of this quaint settlement Notice the British inspired architecture, and even the famous London Double Decker Tour buses.
Re-board the Pride of Africa and settle in as the journey will recommence.
The train departs Matjiesfontein and travels through the Karoo, a vast semi-desert region that was once an enormous inland sea. Over millions of years, volcanic matter was ground down and deposited as silt upon the seabed to form what geologists call the Karoo system.
A sumptuous lunch is served in the dining cars.
A tea service will take place in the lounge and observation cars. Be sure to take this opportunity to mingle with other guests, or simply unwind while soaking in the superb scenery of this part of South Africa.
Enjoy another exquisite dinner served in the dining cars before settling in for the night.
Spend a relaxing evening onboard The Pride of Africa.
KIMBERLEY
A Town Frozen in Time
Breakfast is served once again in the elegant dining car.
After lunch, the Pride of Africa makes its first stop in Kimberly. Here, begin with an enjoyable tour of the renowned Big Hole of Kimberly, a man-made crater dugout by prospectors over the many years during the famed diamond mining rush in South Africa. Afterwards, visit the Diamond Mine Museum, for some further information on the mining industry in Kimberly.
Depart Kimberly for Pretoria, as the day's touring has concluded.
The sound of the "gong" heralds that the lunch service has begun. Dining takes place in the dining cars as the train travels northeast towards Klerksdorp and the broad grassland plains of the Highveld.
As in the previous day, a traditional High Tea service is provided.
The sound of the "gong" heralds’ travellers that dinner is served in the Victorian dining cars.
Spend a leisurely evening roaming around the train. Spend some time in the lounge area, or indulge in some well deserved rest and relaxation.
PRETORIA TO JOHANNESBURG

You’ve Arrived
Breakfast is served in the dining car's until 9:30am as the train travels via Krugersdorp and Johannesburg through the goldfields of the Witwatersrand towards Pretoria.
This scenic journey aboard the Pride of Africa comes to a conclusion upon arrival into Pretoria. Just as a reminder, please double check that you have all of your personal belongings, before exiting the train.
Enjoy a private transfer between Pretoria and Johannesburg alongside a professional driver. Approximate travel time is one hour.
Where you’ll be staying
Garden View Deluxe Room
JOHANNESBURG TO SKUKUZA TO SABI SANDS

Onward and Upward
Enjoy a private transfer between Pretoria and Johannesburg alongside a professional driver. Approximate travel time is one hour.
Board a flight in Johannesburg with service to Skukuza. Approximate flight duration is one hour.
Join a shared transfer from Skukuza Airport en route to Lion Sands Ivory (River Lodge) in spectacular Sabi Sands. Approximate transfer time is 25 minutes.
Where you’ll be staying
Suite
SABI SANDS




Under African Skies
Before first light, gear up and head out to further explore Sabi Sands. Sunrise and sunset are when the animals are most active; in particular, herds of elephants roam the expanses of the Sabi in the morning hours as the glow of dawn radiates. Although the largest living mammal is well-known to most, there is nothing quite like seeing a herd of up to a hundred elephants freely wandering through the open plains; it is sight few people will get to enjoy and that none will forget. After a few hours out in the reserve you will be returned to your lodge to enjoy a satisfying and well-earned breakfast.
Step into a sanctuary where the rhythm of the wild sets the tone for your well-being. At Lion Sands, the spa and wellness offerings are designed to help you reconnect with yourself and what truly matters. Let the soothing treatments, inspired by ancient African traditions, melt away your stress as skilled hands guide you to relaxation. Relax on your private deck, with the soft whisper of the bush as your only companion, flowing through a peaceful yoga session or pausing to simply breathe deeply and reconnect. Indulge in restorative massages that awaken your senses, or take a serene walk among ancient trees, feeling the timeless energy of the land beneath your feet. Here, wellness isn’t just a service—it’s an experience harmonized with the natural beauty around you, leaving your body refreshed and your spirit renewed.
Please note that additional charges may apply.
Night game drives allow you to observe nocturnal animals that are typically absent during the day, and a host of daylight animals which behave quite differently under the cover of darkness. Setting out as the sun sets, you may spot leopards in particular, and with a bit of luck, encounter these predators while on the hunt. During evening drives, trackers employ a powerful spotlight to search for and showcase predators and prey alike. Lions, African civets, honey badgers, aardvarks, bat-eared foxes, mongooses, genet cats and nocturnal birds like owls and nightjars are just some of the wildlife fortunate guests may spot this evening under the starlit African sky.
Where you’ll be staying
Suite
SABI SANDS




Elusive Creatures
Following breakfast, consider participating in an intimate walking tour of the bush alongside an armed ranger (for safety purposes). The goal of this hike is to learn about native flora, insects, birds, and the smaller animals that are often overlooked or underappreciated during formal game drives; the closer one looks at the bush, the more one realizes just how much there is to discover. Endemic and rare plants dot the landscape, insects keep the soil turning, and smaller mammals make meals of them. Discover this and more on a morning walking safari or simply relax at the lodge, cocktail in hand, and bask in the afternoon warmth as animals wander past your lodge.
Following lunch, venture back into the bush. Both the rare Black (hook-lipped) and White (square-lipped) rhinos wander the reserve and the afternoon is fantastic time to spot these powerful, beautiful and endangered creatures. If you are lucky enough, you may spot a crash of rhinos grazing as the sun dips below the horizon. After a few hours, you will return to the lodge to refresh before a freshly-prepared dinner.
At Lion Sands, every meal is an invitation to savor the soul of Africa. Dine under a starlit sky, the distant roar of a lion adding to the magic of the night, or gather around a crackling fire as flavors crafted from fresh, local ingredients awaken your senses. Whether you choose an al fresco feast or the intimate comfort of the lodge, each dish tells a story of Southern Africa’s rich culinary heritage. Expert chefs blend traditional recipes with contemporary flair, crafting tailored menus that cater to all dietary needs, including Halaal and Kosher, ensuring you feel welcomed and at home. Complement your meal with premium Cape wines, handpicked to elevate the experience. Each bite is a celebration, as unforgettable as the wildlife adventures that shape your day. At Lion Sands, dining isn’t just a meal—it’s a journey into the heart of African flavor and hospitality.
Where you’ll be staying
Suite
SABI SANDS TO SKUKUZA TO JOHANNESBURG

Bon Voyage
Before first light, embark on an early morning game drive with a tracker, ranger and fellow guests of the lodge. Sabi Sands is known as one of the best places on earth to spot the elusive leopard. Most commonly found in the morning and evening, lucky guests will find these beautiful cats lounging on tree limbs where they can be observed in safety. You will be out in the private reserve for a few hours before returning to the lodge for breakfast.
Board a shared transfer to Skukuza Airport. Approximate travel time is 25 minutes.
Board a flight in Skukuza with service to Johannesburg. Approximate flight duration is one hour and 5 minutes.
Where you’ll be staying
Int'l airport
CAPE TOWN










Cape Grace
Magical views sparkle from the windows of Cape Grace, situated on the waterfront of Cape Town. The hotel comprises of luxurious rooms of various sizes and styles to suit the needs of each guest. Some rooms are built like lofts, with rooftop access for breakfast. Others offer balconies or French doors with views to the yacht marina. Cuisine at the hotel is enjoyable, while others prefer to explore restaurants around Cape Town itself. A melange of influences has formed a grand palette of flavors for the city. Friendly staff and small pleasantries add a smile to guests' stay at Cape Grace. Stay healthy with visits to the hotel gym, or spend time lounging near the pool. Feed your soul with rejuvenating body treatments and calm the mind with top floor city views at the exclusive African-inspired spa. Savor cappuccinos by day and a large variety of exceptional whiskies and wines by night at this waterside venue. Experience award-winning South African cuisine, superb Cape wines and scenic marina and mountain views.
JOHANNESBURG






Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff
An iconic hotel reborn, the new Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff, Johannesburg, is a stylish urban resort. Elevated on a hillside with panoramic views across the Johannesburg Zoo and the prestigious neighborhoods of The Parks, the hotel is still conveniently close to culture, shopping and leisure activities. With 117 guest rooms and suites, the design resembles a hillside village woven with courtyards, fountains and gardens. Five modern venues for dining and drinks create a vibrant social scene. Combining a brand-new destination spa, two swimming pools and nearby golf, Four Seasons The Westcliff defines Johannesburg’s best hotel stay.
SABI SANDS





Lion Sands Ivory Lodge
The international award winning Lion Sands Ivory Lodge is ultra-luxurious, yet simple and chic. This exclusive lodge prizes privacy, and each suite is operated as a private villa. Long regarded as one of the premier lodges in the world, the public areas at Ivory Lodge include a bar with fireplace, library lounge, well-stocked wine cellar, wooden viewing decks, a magnificent River Island deck, the Lalamuka Health Spa & Gymnasium, curio shop, and both an indoor and open-air dining area (or boma). Neither word nor photograph can capture the utter beauty that welcomes guests as they walk through the carved wooden doors leading into this private escape.
JOHANNESBURG
Depart
Depart from Johannesburg international airport - End of itinerary.
Made to Order
- Choose from a range of places to stay, from impeccable five-star hotels to equally outstanding boutique ones.
- Tailor your trip to include a wide variety of activities, from the must-see's to the lesser-known, local experiences, and even the exclusive ones you may not know about.
- With no fixed dates or set schedules, you can explore on your terms.
- Whether you're celebrating one of life's big moments or looking to fulfill a personal journey, we always work with you to ensure we're creating a trip-of-a-lifetime.
What's included
- A fully customized itinerary based on your interests and schedule
- 24/7 in-destination support from our local office
- Regional flights between stops in your itinerary (unless otherwise indicated)
- All accommodation stays, tours and transfers for scheduled activities are covered, unless otherwise listed in the itinerary
- A private driver for tours and transfers (in some countries our local private guides also act as your driver - your Destination Expert will discuss with you if applicable)
- Local private guides or shared tours that take you through your itinerary highlights and experiences, your final itinerary will confirm the type of tour
- A greeting at the airport or at your accommodation from one of our representatives – your expert will confirm your meet and greet location with you
- Breakfast each morning at your hotel, plus any meals indicated in the itinerary
- One suitcase and one carry-on per person for trip transfers
What's not included
- Your international airfare – please do let your expert know if you'd like to receive pricing from our Air Team
- Travel insurance, which we offer and can be purchased after you've booked your tour
- Visas (unless noted)
- Tips for services and experiences
- Lunches, dinners and drinks (alcoholic and non-alcoholic), unless specified in the itinerary
- Excess baggage charges, and where applicable, baggage not included in your fare
- Personal charges such as laundry, phone calls, SIM cards or room service
- Early check-in or late check-out from hotels (unless otherwise specified)
- Additional sightseeing, activities and experiences outside of your itinerary
- Optional enhancements like room or flight upgrades, or local camera or video fees
- Passport fees, immunization costs, and local departure taxes (when applicable)
Protect your travel
- We recommend travel protection. Between missed connections, lost or delayed luggage, or medical emergencies, you want some peace of mind that your travel investment is well protected.
- No matter who you buy from, please consider purchasing a travel protection plan before you travel. Still unsure? Consider these frequently asked questions.









