A Bucket List trip - Experiencing the best of South Africa in 8 Days
CAPE, WINE & SAFARI - 8 Days
A Bucket List trip - Experiencing the best of South Africa in 8 Days
Explore South Africa's Cape Peninsula, Cape Town's historical center, and the Kruger National Park adjacent Klaserie Private Reserve on this 8-day adventure. Immerse yourself in stunning landscapes, encounter penguins, hike Table Mountain, indulge in wine tastings, and embark on thrilling game drives. Unforgettable experiences await on this action-packed itinerary.
Pricing: Pricing is per person based on double occupancy, pricing is subject to change, and is based on low season.
Accommodation Upgrades: Can be arranged on request we offer upscale safari lodge upgrades.
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Trip Itinerary
Day 1: Welcome to Cape Town
Begin your South African adventure in Cape Town, where you'll be warmly greeted at the airport and seamlessly transferred to your city hotel. Relax and settle in as you prepare to embark on an unforgettable journey starting in the vibrant and captivating city of Cape Town.
Overnight: The Three Boutique Hotel (or Similar)
Property Overview:
Old and new meet in perfect harmony at The Three Boutique Hotel: this beautiful national monument building has been converted into a stylish, elegant, and affordable 18-bedroom boutique hotel in the leafy suburb of Oranjezicht, at the heart of Cape Town.
The Three Boutique Hotel fills the gap between a too-homely guest house and an impersonal hotel; it's exactly the right balance of chic surroundings, 4-star facilities, and friendly service. The Three offers modern and sophisticated hotel accommodation with a historic heart in a trendy part of central Cape Town.
Day 2: Cape Peninsula & Boulder Penguin Colony
Begin your Cape Town adventure with a thrilling full-day tour of the stunning Cape Peninsula. Accompanied by a knowledgeable private guide, embark on a scenic journey to the Cape of Good Hope Reserve, where you'll witness the breathtaking meeting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Marvel at the dramatic coastal landscapes and lookout for fascinating wildlife along the way.
Next, visit the famous Boulder penguin colony, home to adorable African penguins. Get up close and personal with these charming creatures as they waddle along the sandy shores.
Continue your exploration with a leisurely walk along the popular Kalk Bay coast, soaking in the natural beauty and vibrant atmosphere. For the adventurous at heart, take a refreshing swim in the invigorating ocean waters—an activity beloved by Capetonians.
Indulge in a delicious lunch at a charming family-owned restaurant located near the coast, savoring local flavors and culinary delights. Immerse yourself in the coastal ambiance and relish the coastal cuisine.
This full-day adventure promises unforgettable moments, breathtaking scenery, and a true taste of the Cape Peninsula's natural wonders and cultural treasures.
Overnight: The Three Boutique Hotel (or Similar)
Day 3: Table Mountain Adventure
Kick off your Cape Town adventure with a thrilling hike up Table Mountain alongside your knowledgeable guide or opt for a scenic cable car ride to the top. Take in breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. Afterwards, embark on a captivating walking tour of Cape Town's historical center, discovering its rich heritage and iconic landmarks.
Savor a delightful lunch before venturing into the renowned wine country. Along the way to Franschhoek, make a stop for a wine tasting experience, immersing yourself in the flavors and aromas of South African wines. As you arrive in Franschhoek, your guide bids you farewell, allowing you to relish a day of exploration at your own pace in this charming town known for its culinary delights and picturesque vineyards.
Overnight: Chapter House Boutique Hotel
Property Overview:
Chapter House Boutique Hotel is soaked in history; originally built as a Mission House in 1888, and later serving as the village school right up until 1974, this house has chapters filled with stories to tell. The recent renovations have captured many of the original features and restored them to their former glory, impressively combining heritage design with local creativity and charm.
Day 4: Explore the Cape Winelands
On Day 4 of your South African adventure, get ready for a day of indulgence and exploration in the picturesque Cape Winelands. Hop aboard the charming wine tram, a unique and scenic way to access a variety of wineries nestled in and around the valley. Relax and enjoy the stunning vineyard landscapes as you are transported from one winery to another, savoring exquisite wines and immersing yourself in the region's rich wine culture.
Alternatively, if you're seeking a more active experience, we offer the option to explore the valley on two wheels. We provide mountain bikes for your full day at leisure, along with a recommended route that allows you to pedal through the vineyards, soak in the breathtaking views, and discover hidden gems along the way.
After a day of wine tasting or cycling adventures, return to the charming Chapter House Boutique Hotel. Nestled in the heart of the Cape Winelands, this elegant accommodation offers a comfortable and luxurious retreat, ensuring a restful and rejuvenating stay.
Indulge in the region's culinary delights, unwind amidst the beautiful surroundings, and prepare for more unforgettable experiences on your South African journey.
Overnight: Chapter House Boutique Hotel
Day 5: Safari Time - Klaserie Private Reserve
Bid farewell to the Cape Winelands as you're met in the morning and transferred to the airport. Board your flight to Hoedspruit, where a friendly local representative will be waiting for you upon arrival. Enjoy a seamless transfer to the Klaserie Private Reserve, a pristine wilderness area bordering the renowned Kruger National Park. Settle into the Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge or a similar accommodation, your luxurious home for the next three nights.
Overnight: Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge or a similar
Property Overview:
Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge is a pioneers' camp intimately situated within the heart of the nature reserve. Below a mature treeline and located on the banks of the Klaserie river, the region attracts vast herds of elephants, other bountiful wild game, and copious bird species. This pristine wilderness has remained untouched over time and will allow guests to reconnect with the mysteries of nature.
The lodge is located roughly 1.5 hours from the closest airport, Hoedspruit East Gate airport and is also in proximity to a private airstrip for those wishing for a more direct route into the wilderness. The pool overlooks the Klaserie river, another perfect spot to unwind. From here, a phenomenal amount of birds can be seen and heard in the surrounding trees, along with herds of wild game visiting the waters below. At the end of the day, enjoy listening to the sounds of the African night around a fire in the boma area.
Klaserie Private Game Reserve
Area Overview:
Part of the Greater Kruger Park area, Klaserie Private Game Reserve is one of the largest privately owned reserves in South Africa, covering an impressive 148,000 acres of pristine wildlife. It is home to the Big Five - lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino - as well as some of Africa’s less spotted and endangered species like wild dog and cheetah. The landscape is varied and includes typical Acacia savanna, riverine bushveld, as well as vast stretches of mopane woodland.
Klaserie is fiercely focused on nature conservation and low-impact tourism. Limited visitor numbers allow for a more exclusive experience with more time at sightings and fewer other vehicles around. Guests can enjoy plains game on the open veld while the Klaserie River is popular with hippo pods, playful elephants, buffalo, and crashes of rhino.
The Kruger National Park, the Panorama Route, Blyde River Canyon, and various endangered species centers are all a day-trip away. Bush walks and learning to track big game on foot may also be possible.
Day 6 & 7: Safari - Klaserie Private Reserve
Prepare for an extraordinary safari experience in the Klaserie Private Reserve. Embark on morning and evening game drives led by expert guides who possess an intimate knowledge of the reserve. Explore the vast landscapes and encounter the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, and leopard) along with a myriad of other fascinating wildlife species. Marvel at the incredible biodiversity and enjoy the thrill of spotting animals in their natural habitats. Each day offers a unique opportunity to witness the wonders of the African bush and create lifelong memories.
Overnight: Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge or a similar
Day 8: Last Morning on Safari
Relish your last morning in the Klaserie Private Reserve, savoring the sights and sounds of the wilderness. After a final game drive, bid farewell to this captivating region as you're transferred back to Hoedspruit for your onward flight to your next destination. Reflect on your unforgettable safari experiences and carry the memories of South Africa's abundant wildlife with you.
All road transfers between airports and hotels/lodges
Accommodation at Three Boutique hotel (or similar) in a studio suite on a bed and breakfast basis (or similar)
Two full days of touring with a private vehicle and guide, including lunch, park fees, cableway tickets and wine tasting, wine tram ticket
Accommodation at Chapter House Boutique hotel (or similar) in a deluxe room on bed and breakfast basis
Accommodation at Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge (or similar) on a fully inclusive basis (all meals, local brand drinks, 2 safaris daily, park and conservation fees)
All dinners in Cape Town and Franschhoek
One lunch in Franschhoek
Wine tastings at wineries visited by the wine tram
Optional mountain bike rental
Additional touring on free day in Franschhoek
Premium drinks, spa treatments and any additional activities on safari
Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge is a unique camp nestled deep within a nature reserve, offering an intimate and pioneering experience. Situated alongside the Klaserie river beneath a canopy of mature trees, this location attracts magnificent herds of elephants, abundant wildlife, and a diverse array of bird species. Immerse yourself in this pristine wilderness, untouched by time, and rediscover the wonders of nature.
Conveniently located approximately 1.5 hours from the nearby Hoedspruit East Gate airport, the lodge is also in proximity to a private airstrip, providing a more direct access route to the untamed wilderness.
The lodge's pool overlooks the Klaserie river, providing a tranquil setting for relaxation. Here, you can witness an impressive variety of birds and observe wild game coming to drink at the water's edge. As the day comes to a close, gather around the fire in the boma area and listen to the captivating sounds of the African night.
Experience the wilderness firsthand with morning and afternoon walking or driving activities in the prime Big 5 territory. In addition to the iconic African wild dogs, you'll encounter spotted hyenas, majestic giraffes, and a wealth of birdlife. Each afternoon safari concludes with an early evening night drive, allowing you to seek out the elusive nocturnal creatures. The duration of each morning and afternoon activity is approximately 3 to 4 hours, while the walking trails range from 2 to 9 kilometers, taking into account the fitness levels and preferences of guests.
Accommodations at Ivory Wilderness feature five luxurious rondavels, exuding a classic Kruger-style charm, and each facing the Klaserie river. Every room is equipped with an en-suite bathroom, power sockets, and fans for your comfort. The en-suite bathrooms are thoughtfully designed with double basins, showers, and baths, providing a complete experience complemented by all-natural Africology products.
Key Features:
Intimate riverside lodge
Rich wildlife, including elephants, wild game, and diverse bird species
