South Africa: Rainbow Nation – Johannesburg, Pilanesberg and Cape Town
South Africa is one of the most beautiful and diverse destinations in the world and offers a wide choice of travel options: from sophisticated city life to untouched beaches, breathtaking scenery and an opportunity to view wildlife in its natural habitat. The country is a melting pot of so many different cultures, peoples and languages that this ‘Rainbow Nation’ is truly a fascinating destination. South Africa’s unusual locations, wildlife activities, and exhilarating adventure sports give it an edge as an incentive destination.Read more
Johannesburg is a bustling and vibrant place, home to a large cosmopolitan population. There are exceptionally beautiful green spaces, ranging from well-manicured parks and botanical gardens, to elegant golf courses.
Among Southern Africa’s fascinating game reserves, Pilanesberg National Park is possibly the most accessible. Situated only three hours drive away from Johannesburg, in the ecologically rich transition zone between the Kalahari and the Lowveld, this vast area promises thrilling big game viewing in a malaria free environment.
Known to South Africans as the ‘Mother City’, the city of Cape Town nestles in one of the most dramatic settings of any city on earth. It’s a place where old and new harmoniously converge – in history, architecture, cultural pursuits and the essence of its people.
Dates
Dates on request
Suggested Itinerary by Air
Day 1
UK – South Africa
Fly from the UK to Johannesburg.
Day 2
Johannesburg – Arrival
Arrive at Tambo International Airport where you will be met by a guide. Depart on a city tour of Johannesburg before arriving at your hotel. Stay at the Protea Hotel. The hotel’s charming colonial theme is accentuated with wooden elements and delicate floral accents. The resident pianist conjures images of the hotel’s history, which is celebrated through artwork, framed press clippings and memorabilia of bygone days. Each of the classically-styled rooms make guests feel at home – with a king-size bed, LCD television, electronic safe and a full en-suite bathroom with a walk-in shower, desk, office chair and international plug points. Complimentary high-speed Wi-Fi accessible throughout the hotel. In the evening, you will be transferred to Moyo Melrose Arch for a unique African Dinner Experience.
Day 3
Pilanesberg National Park
After breakfast, you will transfer to Pilanesberg National Park. On arrival you will check in to the Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge and Bakubung Bush Lodge. Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge is where Mother Nature and guests meet in perfect harmony. Located on the slopes of an ancient volcano, Kwa Maritane offers guests all the amenities of an exclusive resort within the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park. Bakubung Bush Lodge offers luxury accommodation with breath-taking beauty. Concealed within the rich expanses of the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, the lodge offers you everything you need, with the bush just outside your window. These Pilanesberg lodges are set in an area where the Big 5 roam.
In the afternoon, you will go on a game drive. The Pilanesberg National Park is the ideal place to experience an incredible African safari – with breathtaking scenery, rich biodiversity and amazing wildlife encounters.
Day 4
Pilanesberg Game Drive
Wake up early to go on a game drive. You may have the fortunate opportunity to view the Big Five: Leopard, Lion, Buffalo, Elephant and Rhino. In the afternoon, head back to the lodge where you can relax by the pool. You could also head to nearby Sun City Resort with its casino, golf course, live shows, restaurants, waterpark and a host of other activities. Enjoy dinner and evening entertainment at the lodge.
Day 5
Fly to Cape Town
Enjoy a final game drive before breakfast. Later transfer to Tambo Airport for your flight to Cape Town. On arrival, you will be met by a guide and transferred to your hotel. Stay at the Southern Sun Cullinan Hotel, a premier hospitality destination offering grand hotel accommodation in the heart of Cape Town just moments from the renowned Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. Classically styled and indulgent, yet incorporating world-class amenities with contemporary emphasis, Southern Sun The Cullinan is beautifully designed. Guests have access to a host of services and amenities including the large outdoor pool with its spacious deck, a fully equipped fitness centre, conference facilities and great dining at The Peach Tree Restaurant. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure before your transfer to Table Mountain. On arrival, you will board the Cable Car for your ascent up the world famous Table Mountain. Enjoy the crisp air and clear visibility as you savour what must be an experience of a lifetime at sunset. Later you will be transferred to Pigalle Restaurant for dinner. From the moment you enter Pigalle you’ll know you are set for an extraordinary experience. Veteran restaurateurs Victor and Naldo Gonçalves seem to have come up with a winning recipe as far as uber-chic successful restaurants are concerned. No expense has been spared in converting an old ice-rink into this glamorous 300-seater restaurant and the imposing entrance says it all.
Day 6
Cape Peninsula
Today you will explore the spectacular Cape Peninsula. Find out first hand why it’s called the Fairest Cape. Travel past Sea Point and Camps Bay, past the famous beaches of Clifton and Llandudno towards Hout Bay. Drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve before reaching Cape Point. You will have the opportunity to take a ride on the funicular to view spectacular scenery of Cape Point. Ascend to the highest point of the Reserve with the funicular, before proceeding to Simonstown for lunch at Bertha’s Restaurant. Following lunch, visit Boulder’s Beach to view the famous Cape Penguins and then back to your hotel in the late afternoon. Thereafter, you will return to the hotel and will have time at leisure. In the evening, you will travel to Richard’s Superclub where you will enjoy dinner and a show. A wonderful and exciting theatre venue, Richard’s Supper Stage and Bistro transports you into the world of entertainment, featuring talented artists performing in a variety of shows from cabaret to jazz to comedy. With a view of Robben Island through the large windows and seated at sociable dinner tables, enjoy Cape wines and an exclusive scrumptious Cape Buffet.
Day 7
Cape Town Tour
Enjoy the ultimate ‘Mother City’ experience, designed to orient and give you a full-colour insight into the extraordinary magic of Cape Town. Visit the country’s oldest building, The Castle, and a short distance away, the Company Gardens, both historically fascinating and well conserved. Nearby landmarks include the Slave Lodge, Houses of Parliament and St George’s Cathedral. Continue past the Greenmarket Square, which was once a slave market and now a vibrant flea market. Move up the cobblestoned hills to the picturesque Malay Quarter. Learn about Cape Malay history and marvel at the vibrant colours of the quaint Bo-Kaap homes. Enjoy lunch at Baia Seafood Restaurant, located on the V &A Waterfront. Following lunch, enjoy the afternoon at leisure shopping or return to the hotel and relax by the pool. In the evening, travel to Camps Bay for dinner. Camps Bay is a trendy suburb, 7 minutes from the centre. Set against the impressive backdrop of the Twelve Apostles mountain range, Camps Bay beach is one of Cape Town’s largest and most beautiful beaches. Camps Bay restaurants and bars line the palm-tree promenade opposite the beach.
Day 8
Winelands Tour
Today you will enjoy a tour of the winelands. Visit the Boschendal Wine Estate for a cellar tour, wine tasting and lunch. Visit the historical monuments and charming shops down cobbled alleyways and through vineyards while tasting local cuisine, mouthwatering chocolates and award winning wines. Later, transfer to the hotel where you will have time to refresh prior to your gala dinner this evening. Visit the Castle of Good Hope where pre-dinner drinks will be served prior to being escorted into the rear courtyard where you will enjoy an African Themed Gala Dinner.
Day 9
Depart Cape Town
Enjoy your final breakfast before transferring to the airport for your return flight to the UK.
Day 10
UK Arrival
Arrive back in the UK.
Suggested hotels subject to availability.
Visa Requirements:
British passport holders visiting South Africa for tourist purposes, for under 90 days do not need a visa.