17-Day Cape Town to Johannesburg Tour
(Self-Drive option also available)
Cape Town to Johannesburg
Day 1 – Cape Town.
Upon your arrival at the “Mother City” of Cape Town you will be collected from the airport and taken on a short orientation tour of this magnificent city, before being taken to your hotel close to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront where you spend two nights. This is a city with a diverse range of attractions, sights and activities on offer; Cape Town has something for everyone. From the landmark beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay to the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and Cape Town city centre, the scenery of the Cape Peninsula and more - time spent in Cape Town will not be forgotten. For your own account, should you wish, and with weather permitting, we can visit Table Mountain before proceeding to the hotel.
Overnight Breakwater Lodge (or similar). Just minutes away from the Waterfront, the Breakwater Lodge was once a 19th Century prison, and today provides comfortable Cape Town hotel accommodation in a spectacular setting that looks over the bay and up onto Table Mountain.
Day 2 – Cape Town (Breakfast)
Today, we depart from the hotel and travel along the Atlantic Seaboard through Sea Point, Bantry Bay, Camps Bay and Llandudno before visiting the fishing village of Hout Bay. From here we make our way via Chapman's Peak drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve where we visit Cape Point to explore the diversity of plant species in this reserve first hand and hopefully to view the rare bontebok and zebra, eland, baboon and other wildlife of the reserve. The scenery here is stunning and one has the option of getting to the view site by foot or by the less strenuous Funicular, (own account). We will have lunch at the Two Oceans Restaurant (own account) before proceeding to the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach to view and learn more about these fascinating birds.
We then travel through the naval-base town of Simon's Town along the False Bay Coastline, and should time allow we would visit the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, which is world-renowned for the beauty and diversity of the Cape flora it displays and for the magnificence of its setting against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Kirstenbosch grows only indigenous South African plants. The estate covers 528 hectares and supports a diverse fynbos flora and natural forest. The cultivated garden (36 hectares) displays collections of South African plants, particularly those from the winter rainfall region of the country.
Overnight Breakwater Lodge.
Day 3 - Cape Town (Breakfast)
This morning, we depart on a full day tour of the Cape Winelands. We make our way directly to the Cape Winelands where we visit various wineries and other venues for the full day. Towns we may visit include Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschoek.
Overnight Breakwater Lodge.
Day 4 – Oudtshoorn (Breakfast)
After breakfast we make our way to Oudtshoorn along “Route 62”, the tourist route that meanders between Cape Town and Oudtshoorn, offering the shorter, scenic alternative to the N2 highway. It's an area of magnificent landscapes and towering cliffs, crystal clear streams and the abundance of trees and indigenous flora. The ever changing colours of the majestic mountains, scenic passes, rivers, vineyards and orchards, as well as the multitude of attractions, will offer you an unforgettable adventure — whether this is in the physical sense or simply a kaleidoscope of scenic tranquillity. Innovation and pride, combined with a terrain and mild climate that are harmoniously balanced, results in the prominence of this region's wines. Route 62 will take you along the longest wine route in the Western Cape and most likely the whole world. We reach Oudtshoorn in the late afternoon, a town that is known as the "feather capital of the world”.
Overnight at Fosters Manor (or similar). Experience the days gone by of ostrich feathers and feather palaces at Foster`s Manor Bed & Breakfast (3 star grade) - the embodiment of the ambiance of the era when the ostrich and its feathers reigned supreme in the Little Karoo
The Ostrich feather palace, Foster`s Manor, was the only one to be established as a charming Bed & Breakfast. The Manor was declared a national monument in 1974 and was restored to its former glory.
Day 5 – Mossel Bay. (Breakfast, Lunch)
Today we visit the Cango Caves near Oudtshoorn, which are among the biggest stalagmite formations in the world. Some of the sandstone formations are colourfully illuminated and the bizarre shapes in the caves are mainly composed of calcium carbonate. They develop as limewater drips from the stones and evaporates. The structures growing down from the cave ceiling are called stalactites, while those that grow from the ground to the top are called stalagmites.
We will also visit a working ostrich farm where one can learn more about these fascinating birds. Commercial ostrich farming started during the late 1880's in South Africa; this was also the start of the ostrich industry worldwide. The fashion demand in Europe for ostrich feathers inspired the growth of the industry, with the Oudtshoorn district quickly being established as the “ostrich capital of the world”. During the first decade of the previous century, ostrich feathers gained record prices on foreign markets, ranking 4th on the list of South African exports, after gold, diamonds and wool. The consequence of this newly found opulence meant that ostrich farmers were able to build beautiful sandstone mansions. A unique feature of the farm experience is a visit to the Ostrich Palace "Welgeluk" which was built at the height of the feather boom in 1910. The homestead is a National Monument and is a superb example of the type of architecture that was used at the time. Safari Ostrich Show Farm was established more than 40 years ago. Lunch will be enjoyed at this farm.
After lunch we make our way to the nearby town of Mossel Bay where we visit the Diaz Museum. Of the five National Monuments on the museum grounds, 4 are buildings dating between 1830 and 1902. The museum grounds themselves, situated on the shores of the Indian Ocean, are a magnificent historical setting. They are situated at the very site where European explorers came ashore and made contact with the indigenous people. Information about the Khoi-Khoi and explorers can be seen in the Maritime Museum.
Overnight Point Hotel (or similar). The Point Hotel is built right on the rocks above a huge natural rock pool and overlooks the endless blue expanse of the Indian Ocean. From your balcony you can watch the Humpback and Southern Right whales or the dolphins passing.
Day 6 – Knysna (Breakfast, Lunch)
This morning after breakfast we depart for the Knysna Lagoon where we visit the Featherbed Reserve. Featherbed is a privately owned, registered Nature Reserve and a South African Heritage site. It is a pristine piece of paradise situated on the Western Head of Knysna and is accessible by ferry only. This spectacular four-hour eco-experience includes a return ferry trip, nature drive and guided walk, ending with a sumptuous buffet lunch at the Food Forest Restaurant. A 4 x 4 Unimog vehicle takes visitors to spectacular viewpoints. Featherbed Nature Reserve is a prime example of eco-tourism, and in order to protect the splendour of the natural beauty, access to the Reserve is controlled. Numbers are limited and visits are only permitted in the company of the Reserve's specialist guides. The Featherbed eco-experience starts with a 25-minute ferry cruise. Your local guide on board will share fascinating tales about the Lagoon, the early shipping industry and oyster cultivation. On arrival at the Reserve, visitors can enjoy a drive to the top of the Western Head in a 4 x 4 Unimog vehicle with trailers, stopping at a magnificent viewpoint en route. Here unsurpassed views of the Lagoon, mountains and Knysna can be enjoyed, whilst our knowledgeable guides explain the history and ecology of the Reserve. After the drive, your specialist guide will take you on an optional 2.2 kilometre downhill walk.
The town of Knysna nestles between the impressive Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean, with the world-renowned forests encircling it like a protective mantle. At the heart of Knysna is the 21 ha lagoon protected from the sea by the monolithic sandstone "Heads" - silent sentinels down the centuries of the rich history of this unique part of "paradise on earth".
Overnight at the Knysna River Club (or similar). The award winning Knysna River Club comprising of 35 luxury chalets is situated on the edge of the famous Knysna Lagoon, offering an unique opportunity to experience an unforgettable stay at one of South Africa's prime destinations.
Day 7 - Knysna (Breakfast)
This morning we head onto the N2 to Plettenberg Bay where we board a boat for an exciting launch through the waves to see if we can spot whales, dolphins and other ocean mammals in this pristine coast. There is quite a good chance that we may see the resident Bryde's Whales, as well as the migratory Southern Right whales (depending on time of year) and thousands of seals at Robberg Marine Reserve.
The remainder of the day is yours to enjoy. Any further activities are for your own account, but your guide will be on hand to supply transport and advise on activities.
Overnight Knysna River Club.
Day 8 - Durban (Breakfast)
This morning we travel to Port Elizabeth from where we fly to Durban, where if time allows, we do a short orientation tour of the city. If time allows you will have the opportunity to swim in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean
Here we overnight at the Protea Hotel, Umhlanga (or similar) in the suburb of Umhlanga Rocks. Conveniently situated mere minutes from the protected beach and only 10 minutes away from Durban in the heart of Umhlanga Rocks, the Protea Hotel Umhlanga offers friendly and comfortable 3-Star accommodation.
Day 9 – Shakaland. (Breakfast, Dinner)
From Durban we make our way to Eshowe where we visit the Aerial Boardwalk in the Dlinza Forest, here to see some of the fascinating bird-life in this town, before we head to Shakaland where we overnight. Shakaland is a traditional Zulu "Umuzi" or homestead, divided into the home of the Zulu's and hotel rooms, and is a unique resort which was built on the set that was used for the filming of the movies, Shaka Zulu and John Ross. Here you will feel the pulsating rhythm of mysterious and magical Africa as you re-live the excitement and romance of the days of Shaka, King of the Zulus, in this authentic re-creation of the Great Kraal overlooking the Phobane Lake. Experience the sight of assegai-wielding warriors, share the fascinating secrets of the Sangomas and witness traditional customs such as tribal dancing, spear-making and the beer-drinking ceremonies. Stay in quality accommodation in traditional beehive huts, with all mod cons such as en-suite bathrooms. Protea Hotel Shakaland is more than just a tourist attraction - it is an enriching experience affording a better understanding of the Zulu nation, its people and their intriguing customs.
Day 10 – Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Park (Breakfast, Dinner)
From Shakaland and the morning’s cultural activity, we make our way to the Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Park where we would spend the night at Hilltop Camp. The accommodation here is in a brick under thatch chalet, each bedroom with its own private bathroom/wash-basin and toilet. Each chalet is also equipped with a fridge. Our game viewing commences immediately upon entering the gates into the park.
This first evening we go on a night drive in an open game-viewing vehicle with staff from KZN Wildlife, the organisation tasked with running this reserve. This is to improve on your chances of seeing some of the nocturnal species such as leopard (always difficult to find), lion, hyena, genet, bush babies and then the other nocturnal animals such as the owls and nightjars. You also get to see some of the diurnal animals, such as are those that are found in the day.
Day 11 – Hluhluwe/Umfolozi Park (Breakfast, Dinner)
Today will be spent on extended game drives to various areas of the Park, with an early start to make the most of the day and to possibly chance upon one of the predators returning to their day-time lair. This is the game reserve famous for "Operation Rhino" which brought the white rhino back from the brink of extinction. Now you should see just how successful KZN Wildlife has been in this endeavour.
Sightings of rhino, giraffe, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra, warthog, baboon, vervet monkey, and antelope such as impala, nyala and kudu are seen frequently and with the possibility of seeing lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, black rhino, hippo, crocodile, monitor lizard, hyena and antelope such as red duiker, steenbuck, waterbuck, bushbuck and then the rare Samango monkey and wild dog, much less frequently. These drives are conducted with your guide in his/her vehicle.
Overnight Hilltop Camp
Day 12 – Swaziland (Breakfast, Dinner)
After our morning game viewing we leave Kruger Park and travel to Swaziland. We overnight at Reilly’s Rock (or similar). Situated in the Mliliwane Game Reserve. Reilly’s Rock’s unique lodge has been tastefully decorated in keeping with its colonial roots by Swaziland's leading conservation team, Ted and Liz Reilly. Notwithstanding the necessary subtle additions and renovations, the house still stands as it was built almost a century ago. Mliliwane Game Reserve is Swaziland's pioneer conservation area and is situated in a beautiful, secluded sanctuary in Swaziland's Valley of Heaven, the Ezulwini Valley, an area between Mbabane and Manzini.
Day 13, 14, 15 – Kruger National Park (Breakfast, Dinner)
After breakfast we will visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory before making our way to the Kruger National Park. Kruger Park is an excellent venue with good sightings of lion, elephant, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest, warthog, baboon, monkey, hippo and impala regularly seen. The more elusive animals like leopard are an exciting find. We will go on a night drive in an open safari vehicle on one of the evenings, this to enhance the possibility of seeing the nocturnal species such as leopard (always difficult to find), lion, hyena, genet, bush babies and then the other nocturnal animals such as the smaller cats, owls and nightjars. You also get to see most of the diurnal animals, with their eyes lighting up like a little town in the reflection of the spotlights when you chance on a herd of Impala. These drives are conducted by SANParks, the organisation tasked with running this Park.
We will spend our nights in Kruger in bungalow accommodation inside the Kruger Park - subject to availability. Although not graded, these bungalows are of a two or three star standard. Here the rooms have twin beds, each with a private shower, toilet and hand basin en-suite. The brick under thatch rooms are equipped with air-conditioning, some also with ceiling fans and a fridge. There is insect proof screening on the doors and windows. You will be provided with bath and hand towels as well as soap. In the game reserve we will have breakfast and dinners in the restaurants. Breakfast and dinners are generally buffet style. We enjoy a full game-viewing programme for the balance of the days. Depending on which camps we will be staying at so the mid-day siesta period could be spent at the swimming pool - Kruger Park is pretty hot and humid in summer - or to visit one of the camp interpretation centres, which are always interesting. Your guide in his vehicle conducts the remainder of the game drives.
We encourage an early start to make the most of the best time of day to view the animals. So first one out at dawn - this to see if we are able to sight some of the nocturnal predators returning to their daytime resting place and then to have breakfast possibly at a different locality. We recommend staying at different camps to make the most on what the Kruger Park has to offer and to get the best game viewing.
Day 16 – Hannah Game lodge (Breakfast, Dinner)
This morning we depart the Kruger Park early and travel to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, which is a non-profit organisation that relies entirely on the tour entrance fee and private/corporate donations and sponsorship. It is this funding that keeps the breeding projects running, as well as purchasing of medicines needed in the hospital, veterinary fees, food for the numerous animals and birds which are kept at the centre and general maintenance of the enclosures. A visit to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre is an unforgettable experience. The centre provides a home for many of South Africa’s abandoned, injured and poisoned wildlife and is a highly regarded contributor to wildlife in our country. Witness the caring and nursing of poisoned, injured and abandoned wild birds and animals. A multitude of interesting wildlife encounters await you and animals that may be seen include Lion, Leopard, Serval, Lynx, Honey Badger, Eagles, Vultures and any baby animals that they may have at the time of our visit. A visit to the centre will stimulate awareness and understanding of the plight which our wildlife faces today.
Thereafter we will visit the Panorama Escarpment and depending on time, some of the view-sites such as God’s Window, Blyde River Canyon, Berlin and Lisbon waterfalls, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, etc.
We overnight at Hannah Lodge (or similar). Hannah is a reflection of Africa in its entire natural splendour, a captivating tapestry of African sounds, smells and colours. The rising sun showers the valley with shades of pink, red and orange. Here the visitor can experience a rare sense of freedom and renewed inspiration.
Day 17 – Johannesburg (Breakfast)
This morning we will visit the historical pioneering town of Pilgrims Rest. Mining in this region of Mpumalanga dates back many centuries, when unknown miners worked quartz reefs in the area for gold. Proof of these diggings can still be found in this area. The history of this small delightful village dates back to 1873 when a miner, Alex Patterson, discovered alluvial gold on the farm named Ponieskrantz. He had left the Mac-Mac area to search for a place that was less congested. Though the discovery was kept as a secret, the inevitable happened when a second prospector William Trafford also discovered gold close by. What they had found in this beautiful valley drew optimistic gold panners and prospectors from all over the country and the World (news of gold strikes of this magnitude travel fast !).On 22nd September 1873 Pilgrim's Rest was officially proclaimed a gold field and the scatter of tents and rudimentary shacks soon grew into a flourishing little village complete with sturdy brick houses, church, shops, canteens, a newspaper and the well-known Royal Hotel.
The diggers called it Pilgrim's Rest because here, at last, after so many false trails and faded dreams they had truly found their home. In due course the alluvial deposits were depleted and the locals turned to forestry, but their village, whose residents still number in the hundreds, has been painstakingly preserved as a "living museum" and major South African tourist venue.
After this visit we make our way to Johannesburg where you will be dropped off at your hotel or at the airport.
