SOUTH AFRICAN SURPRISE

Day 1 : JOHANNESBURG (B / - / -)

On arrival in Johannesburg at OR Tambo International Airport, you’ll be met by your representative and assisted to your shuttle transfer service (unescorted, driver only) that will transfer you to your hotel. You have the remainder of the day at leisure until 19h00 when we all meet at the hotel reception for a welcome briefing on the tour and a chance to meet your fellow travellers.

Johannesburg :

Johannesburg is one of Africa’s largest and most vibrant cities. It is the economic capital of Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa. This bustling city offers a wide range of activities, attractions and plenty to do in and around the city including nearby Pretoria. Downtown is a multi-cultural mixture of traditional medicine shops, Chinese restaurants, taxi ranks and ultra-modern skyscrapers. There are excellent museums, art galleries and organised tours of historical and political interest. The shopping is Southern Africa’s best and the many restaurants cater for all tastes. The nearby township of Soweto is Johannesburg’s most popular tourist attraction.

Overnight : Protea Hotel by Mariott O.R. Tambo Airport     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 2 : JOHANNESBURG - MPUMALANGA (B / - / -)

This morning we leave for Mpumalanga, dropping several hundred feet into the lush subtropical region of the Lowveld. Travel along the circular Panorama Route, visiting the view sites of the Blyde River Canyon, home to the Three Rondavels and one of the natural wonders of Africa; gasp at the glory of God’s Window, with a boundless view of mountains and fertile plains and visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes.
Distance travelled today: 500 kms

Hazyview :

Surrounded by subtropical fruit orchards, Hazyview is a small farming town and a gateway to the southern part of the Kruger National Park and the Panorama Escarpment. The town and its spectacularly scenic surroundings, serve as a popular adventure capital with a remarkable array of exhilarating outdoor activities on offer to suit all ages, tastes and fitness levels. These include, among others: mountain biking, quad biking, ziplining, tubing, abseiling, and river rafting. Whether you are eager to hike the Panorama Route with its breathtaking views and impressive waterfalls, visit the Shangana Cultural Village, or horse ride along the banks of the magnificent Sabie River, Hazyview has something for just about everyone.

Overnight : Hippo Hollow Country Estate     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 3 : MPUMALANGA (B / - / -)

We have a bright and early start to the day to experience the wonders of exploring the Kruger National Park in our closed vehicle. Why not join a thrilling open-vehicle game safari through the Kruger National Park (optional and for own account)? The Kruger National Park is an internationally renowned game reserve of nearly 2 million hectares that supports the largest variety of wildlife species on the African continent. Keep a lookout for the wonderful flora and bird life that abounds.

We return to our hotel around lunch time and your afternoon is at leisure to relax.
Distance travelled today: 200 kms

Overnight : Hippo Hollow Country Estate     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 4 : MPUMALANGA – eSWATINI (SWAZILAND) (B / - / -)

This morning we travel to eSwatini (Swaziland), an independent Kingdom within the borders of South Africa, known for its lovely scenery, crafts and colourful indigenous culture. An interactive cultural experience introduces us to the charming people of eSwatini and their traditions. We travel south to our hotel, nestled in the mountainous peaks of eSwatini (Swaziland) for overnight. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 200 kms

eSwatini :

Officially known as the ‘Kingdom of eSwatini’ and still referred to as Swaziland, this tiny landlocked nation boasts a rich historical and cultural heritage and is Africa's last remaining absolute monarchy. Swaziland encompasses a diverse array of ecosystems featuring towering mountains and low-lying savannah, tangled rainforests and lush river valleys. Highlights of this laid-back land include the mesmerizingly beautiful ‘Valley of Heaven’, the handicraft haven of the Malkerns Valley and the Hlane Royal National Park, famed for its white rhinos, antelopes and lions. Visitors can look forward to excellent wildlife watching, rafting, mountain biking, and hiking along a network of scenic trails which traverse spectacular mountainous landscapes.

Overnight : Piggs Peak Hotel & Casino
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 5 : eSWATINI (SWAZILAND) – ST LUCIA AND SURROUNDS (B / - / -)

After breakfast we journey through eSwatini (Swaziland), visiting Ngwenya Glass, where a small group of eSwati craftsmen and women create beautifully handmade items from recycled glass. Our next stop is The Swazi Candles Centre where you will experience local artisans creating colourful, handmade candles. Our journey continues into the Kingdom of KwaZulu-Natal where ancient traditions and modern cultures of both Zulu and Settler have combined into a vibrant society living in peace and harmony. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon for overnight. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 375 kms

Hluhluwe :

Named after the many thorny climbers that were once found along the Hluhluwe River, on whose banks the town rests, Hluhluwe is sandwiched between the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park and Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. This fact ensures that visitors will be treated to incredibly scenic surroundings. Those who enjoy fresh, juicy South African pineapples can indulge themselves to the fullest, with most of the country’s pineapples produced in this region. Visitors can also look forward to exploring one of many surrounding reserves to view the world-renowned Big Five; soaking up the incredible natural scenery; and enjoying a variety of activities including scuba diving, horse riding, hiking, canoeing, boat cruises, and mountain biking.

Overnight : Anew Hotel Hluhluwe & Safaris     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast 

Day 6 : ST LUCIA AND SURROUNDS - DURBAN (B / - / -)

Guests have the option to take a morning optional open vehicle game drive in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve (optional and for own account), before heading off to Durban. An orientation tour of Durban, that travels along the Golden Mile, the beachfront promenade, The Point Waterfront, and harbour introduces us to this multicultural, vibrant seaside city. The orientation tour concludes with a visit to the Durban Botanic Gardens before arriving at our hotel late afternoon. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 320 kms

Durban :

With its beautiful beaches, lively wining and dining scene, and rich cultural heritage, Durban is South Africa’s third largest city and KwaZulu Natal’s tourist hub. The swimming and surfing are rated the best of any major city across the world and because of the sub-tropical climate the water is warm all year round. Known as the Golden Mile, this stretch of beaches and amusement parks is Durban’s major attraction with the recently developed UShaka Marine World at the southern end providing a world-class aquarium and other entertainments. Visitors can look forward to an array of wonderful activities including: strolling along the beachfront promenade, visiting the Durban Botanical Gardens and exploring the many Asian and Indian markets.

Overnight : Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Durban uMhlanga Ridge     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 7 : DURBAN - DRAKENSBERG (B / - / -)

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or perhaps explore the bustling Umhlanga Beach with a stroll along the Promenade mile that buzzes with energy as surfers, joggers and cyclists take to this seaside playground. Then we head into the majestic Southern Drakensberg Mountains. We visit the impressive 300-foot-high Howick Falls, located in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands town of Howick. Our journey continues through the Southern Midlands Meander Route, arriving at our hotel, situated on a scenic World Heritage site, mid-afternoon. Your afternoon is at leisure to soak up the surroundings, or enjoy fishing, hiking and even horse riding in clean mountain air (all activities are optional and for own account). 
Distance travelled today: 280 kms

Southern Drakensberg :

The Southern Drakensberg is a wonderland of woodlands, forests, lakes and rivers, all set against the dramatic backdrop of this spectacular mountain range. Several nature reserves fall into the area and protect a wide variety of flora and fauna, including some rare antelope species and, at Kamberg, a network of beautiful hiking trails lead to caves decorated with ancient Khoisan art. Trout thrive in the region’s reservoirs and waterways, making it a magnet for fly-fishermen, while horse riding and mountain biking are also popular pursuits in this scenic part of the world. The ultimate highlight of the Southern Drakensberg, however, is the Sani Pass, which – at almost 3,000 metres above sea level – is South Africa’s highest pass, leading all the way to the Lesotho border and offering magnificent vistas along the way.

Overnight : Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast 

Day 8 : DRAKENSBERG (B / - / -)

Enjoy a full day at leisure to soak up the surroundings of the magnificent Southern Drakensberg Mountains. There are also many leisure activities to be enjoyed at the Resort. Consider joining a thrilling 4x4 tour up the spectacular Sani Pass into the mountain Kingdom of Lesotho (optional and for own account).

Overnight : Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens Golf & Spa Resort     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast 

Day 9 : DRAKENSBERG – EASTERN CAPE COAST (B / - / -)

This morning we continue south to the Eastern Cape entering the fourth of the provinces and the birthplace of Nelson Mandela (fondly known as Madiba). En route we see the old traditional way of life in the former homeland area known as the Transkei and stop for lunch (own account) outside the capital of Mthata. We travel past Nelson Mandela’s birthplace and house, arriving late afternoon at our accommodation in Chinsta East, on the beautiful, unspoilt Eastern Cape Coast. 
Distance travelled today: 520 kms

Chintsa :

Situated close to the city of East London in the beautiful Eastern Cape Province, Chintsa is a hidden treasure along the Wild Coast of South Africa. It is made up of two small villages: Chintsa East and Chintsa West, which are separated by the Chintsa River Mouth. It features a pristine, unspoiled long stretch of white-sand beach fringed by dense, lush vegetation scattered with a variety of wonderful places to stay ranging from luxury to budget accommodation. Chintsa offers visitors the opportunity to surf the waves, kayak along the river, enjoy a fishing excursion and soak up the African sun on the spectacular beach.

Overnight : Crawford's Beach Lodge     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 10: EASTERN CAPE COAST – TSITSIKAMMA (B / - / -)

We awake to the sounds of the crashing waves and have the morning at leisure to unwind with beach sand between our toes. The beach stretches on uninterrupted for many kilometres and the thick indigenous beach forest is a haven for an amazing variety of birdlife. We set off heading south to the Tsitsikamma Forest.
Distance travelled today: 510 km

Stormsriver :

Backed by the Tsitsikamma Mountains’ mighty Storms River Peak and surrounded by swathes of indigenous forest, Stormsriver Village, in South Africa’s Eastern Cape, is a scenic adventure sports enthusiast's paradise. At the Tsitsikamma National Park and other parks nearby - characterised by wildlife-filled jungles, rivers, and sea - adrenaline-junkies can enjoy canopying, ziplining, tubing, kayaking, snorkelling, segway riding, cycling, and hiking. An especially popular attraction nearby is the Bloukrans River Bridge, the highest in Africa, where spine-tingling bungee jumping can be enjoyed. The famous Otter Trail begins here, and the surf mecca Jeffrey’s Bay lies just 80 kilometres away. Other highlights include luxury spas; charming craft stalls and boutiques; and a collection of interesting restaurants, such as Marilyn’s 60’s Diner, a retro eatery decorated with a jukebox, 1961 Dodge Lancer, and various other vintage cars.

Overnight : Tsitsikamma Village Inn
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 11 : TSITSIKAMMA - KNYSNA (B / - / -)

After a leisurely breakfast, visit the spectacularly beautiful Tsitsikamma Forest, which provides scenic walking opportunities. A short walk to the Storms River Mouth offers some magnificent views of the gorge and river below. Arrive in Knysna, known as the oyster box of South Africa, for check in at your hotel. Enjoy a dinner filled with culinary delights at the hotel’s trendy restaurant.
Distance travelled today: 92 kms 

Knysna :

Sandwiched between the towering Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, Knysna is a large town often referred to as the ‘Garden of Eden’, surrounded by stunning bays perfect for sailing, boating, and swimming; picturesque beaches and lagoons; and world-renowned forests. This well-catered town is also a perfect base for safari expeditions at nearby parks such as Knysna Elephant Park, and close-up animal experiences at centres such as Jukani Wildlife Sanctuary, Tenikwa Wildlife Awareness Centre, Birds of Eden, and Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary. From here, enjoy ample opportunities for surfing, swimming, yachting, jet-skiing, boating, fishing, and golfing. Visitors can also look forward to an array of wonderful markets, a picturesque waterfront filled with superb restaurants and shops, and several fantastic art galleries. Make sure to take a ferry trip to the famed Knysna Heads and sample the local oysters.

Overnight: Premier Hotel Knysna The Moorings     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 12 : KNYSNA – OUDTSHOORN (B / - / -)

After breakfast, we travel inland over the spectacular Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, known as the ‘feather capital of the world’ because of its ostrich industry. We visit a working ostrich farm and then explore the famous Cango Caves, with a walk around its magnificent dripstone formations of stalactites and stalagmites. 
Distance travelled today: 180 km

Oudtshoorn :

Located along the well-known Route 62 in South Africa’s beautiful Klein Karoo, the charming town of Oudtshoorn is known as the ostrich capital of the world. It is surrounded by numerous ostrich farms and the golden arid landscape of the Karoo. Visitors can enjoy the locally produced wine and port; sample ostrich meat and biltong; learn about the ostrich feather boom at the C.P. Nel Museum; and visit the world-renowned Cango Caves, the largest cave system in Africa featuring ancient rock formations and sparkling stalactites and stalagmites. Other popular activities include: mountain biking, paragliding, horse riding, and taking a day trip to the quaint town of Prince Albert over the scenic Swartberg Pass.

Overnight : Protea Hotel by Marriott Oudtshoorn Riempie Estate     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 13 : OUDTSHOORN – CAPE TOWN (B / - / -)

Today’s journey travels along the famous Route 62 and through the Little Karoo, ending in Cape Town.  On the way we stop off to sample top quality port style wines in Calitzdorp, before continuing via Worcester and the Huguenot Tunnel, arriving in Cape Town in the late afternoon.
Distance travelled today: 420 km

Cape Town :

Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town presents an alluring combination of drawcards. Incredible powdery white beaches, highly acclaimed wine routes, and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. This diverse metropolis is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and a spectacular, chic waterfront harbour. Highlights include the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art; Table Mountain's jaw-dropping views; Boulders Beach, where penguins might swim right up to you in the warm Indian ocean waters; the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where you can walk along a treetop canopy among incredible native flora or watch an open-air concert at the base of the mountain; Robben Island, where visitors can see the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years; and many more.

Overnight : SunSquare Cape Town Gardens     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 14 : CAPE TOWN (UNESCORTED) (B / - / -)

Enjoy a full day at leisure. Perhaps join a sightseeing tour of Cape Town and Table Mountain (optional and for own account) or spend the day exploring the magnificent Cape Winelands on a full day winelands tour (optional and for own account) or join a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula, with its dramatic coastline and spectacular scenic beauty (optional and for own account). Although a small city, Cape Town is packed with sightseeing attractions, excellent bars, cafes, and restaurants as well as colourful craft markets. Alternatively relax on one of Cape Town’s many pristine beaches.

Overnight : SunSquare Cape Town Gardens     
Meals : Bed and Breakfast

Day 15 : End of Itinerary (B / - / -)

This morning after breakfast, check out of the hotel by 11h00. The remainder of the day will be at leisure until your transfer to Cape Town International airport. 
Bed and Breakfast
End of our services