Great Safaris Final Trip Itinerary for SYWA Safari in Southern Africa

VIP Meet & Greet - South Africa

Your exciting adventure begins today, as you touch down in South Africa. On arrival you will receive a VIP meet and greet at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board. Should your aircraft be directed to the apron and not the terminal building, you will be transported to the terminal by bus where you meet and greet will be waiting for you as you step off the bus. You will then be assisted through immigration, baggage collection and customs and on to your next service.

Private transfer to the hotel

Cape Town

The Mother City has a peculiar habit - once a day, Capetonians check their watches. Now, this in itself is not very unusual. The strangeness comes into the fact that everyone looks at their watches at exactly the same time without consciously thinking about it. At exactly 12:00 pm every day, a loud bang fired from cannon on Signal Hill announces to the city that midday has arrived.

The Cape was established by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) as a halfway house along the trade route between the East and Europe. This became a place to mend ships, rest and heal weary visitors and most importantly to collect fresh produce grown by farmers in the area in order to feed famished sailors and soldiers before heading off again for the second leg of their arduous sea voyage. Cape Town grew quickly and soon earned the reputation as the ‘Tavern of the Seas’. Today Cape Town is still a thriving port and never ceases to enthrall visitors with its unique beauty, ethnic diversity and energetic vibe.

With its iconic Table Mountain backdrop, Cape Town is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. An eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects both the area’s history and the more pragmatic realities of the 21st century. The city’s Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been carefully preserved, and many excellent examples of Cape Dutch architecture are found in the city and its environs.

The ability to make something that is both functional and beautiful has long been a proud aspect of the African culture. Cape Town boasts some of the most original and creative handmade arts and crafts and can be found at markets and shops all over Cape Town. You'll find something that caters for any taste or style at the V&A Waterfront or at one of the many shops that open their doors in the surrounding Cape Town area.

Being a coastal town, the ocean plays an important part in everyday lives, beyond the calming effect for which it's famous. There is an incredible diversity of marine life to be discovered and many fun-filled activities can be planned to make use of the bountiful Atlantic and Indian Oceans surrounding Cape Town

Table Mountain

After breakfast at your hotel, your guide will meet you in the lobby for your excursion to one of the world’s most iconic natural landmarks, Table Mountain. Early morning is the ideal time to visit, before the famous “tablecloth” of clouds rolls over the summit and conceals its magnificent views. Rising more than 1,000 meters above sea level, Table Mountain stands as a majestic sentinel over Cape Town, its flat-topped summit forming a dramatic contrast to the blue sweep of sky and ocean beyond. The mountain has long been a symbol of the city. It is timeless, commanding, and ever-changing in the shifting light of dawn and dusk.

As you begin your ascent, the surrounding landscape reveals a captivating fusion of rugged cliffs and delicate flora. Table Mountain forms part of the Cape Floral Kingdom, the smallest yet most diverse of the planet’s six floral kingdoms. Along the trails, you’ll encounter fynbos vegetation found nowhere else on Earth: the striking Protea, delicate Erica, and reed-like Restio. Together, these plants create a living tapestry of color and texture that reflects the region’s extraordinary biodiversity. The mountain’s geology is equally fascinating. Layers of ancient sandstone, weathered by wind and rain over hundreds of millions of years, rise in sculpted formations that tell the story of the Earth’s deep past. Each bend in the trail offers a new vantage point with sweeping views across Cape Town, the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, and the rugged Twelve Apostles range extending toward the Cape of Good Hope. Wildlife thrives among the rocks and shrubs. You may spot the curious rock hyrax, or *dassie*, sunning itself on a boulder, or hear the distant call of a sugarbird darting between flowering Proteas. The crisp mountain air, the scent of fynbos, and the silence broken only by the wind all combine to create a profound sense of place.

Whether you explore its summit plateau or simply pause along the way to admire the panorama, Table Mountain is more than a scenic destination, it is a sacred landscape that embodies the spirit and beauty of Cape Town itself. Standing atop its timeless slopes, one cannot help but feel connected to the enduring heart of Africa’s southernmost city.

Explore the V&A Waterfront

The V&A Waterfront, which attracts roughly 24 million visitors each year, is South Africa’s most-visited destination. This is hardly surprising when you think about how much it has to offer!

While it is still technically a working harbour – you’ll no doubt catch a glimpse of fishing boats and container ships – the V&A Waterfront is more frequently thought of as a shopping destination. Covering 123 acres, the V&A Waterfront is divided up into five shopping districts: Victoria Wharf, the Watershed, The Alfred Mall and Pierhead, The Clock Tower, and Breakwater Point. With more than 450 stores, you’ll find everything from local designers to big international brands. For crafts and local talent, make sure you pop into the Watershed, and, if it’s art or jewellery you’re after, head over to The Alfred Mall and Pierhead.

All that shopping is likely to work up an appetite, and the myriad restaurants, coffee shops and fast-food outlets will keep you fuelled. Of course, some of the restaurants and bars are reason enough to visit the V&A Waterfront. The majority of the restaurants at the V&A Waterfront have excellent views of the harbour, and those that don’t – such as Willoughby & Co – make up for it with top-notch food. (Really, the sushi is hard to beat!) If you after something a little more relaxed, head over to the V&A Food Market where you’ll find regional delicacies, artisanal breads and cheeses, craft beers, vegan treats, and biltong. It’s foodie heaven! If it’s a hot day – or even if it’s not – make sure you swing by The Creamery for a scoop of the best ice-cream in town.

For sundowners, you’ll want to try the Grand Café & Beach or the trendy Shimmy Beach Club, where the beautiful views vie with the gorgeous patrons for your attention. Bascule Bar at the Cape Grace hotel offers a sophisticated whisky-tasting experience, and Belthezar on Victoria Wharf reputedly has the widest selection of wine by the glass in the world!

*** Explore the V&A waterfront at your own pace

Cape Point & Boulders Penguin Sanctuary

Depart the hotel this morning to begin your tour of the Cape Peninsula. Your journey takes you past the iconic 12 Apostles and Hout Bay, winding along Chapman’s Peak Drive. This dramatic mountain route offers some of the most breathtaking panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscapes. After descending the pass, you will continue along the coastline.

This scenic stretch, known as the Atlantic Seaboard, spans approximately 34 miles from the waters of Table Bay along the western coast to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. With its striking beaches and rugged mountains, this route is not only a favorite for drivers but also a perfect vantage point for gazing across the Atlantic Ocean, where some of the world’s most stunning sunsets can be enjoyed.

The Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve culminates at the majestic Cape Point, located at the convergence of two contrasting ocean currents: the cold Benguela Current on the west and the warm Agulhas Current on the east. While popularly thought of as the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, the site remains a spectacular natural landmark. Take the funicular to the vantage point for an unforgettable view of this dramatic seascape.

Another highlight of the day is Boulders Beach, home to a charming colony of endangered African penguins. Early settlers nicknamed them “jackass” penguins due to their distinctive braying call, which reminded them more of a four-legged animal than a two-footed bird!

Chapmans Peak

Chapman's Peak is a mountain on the western side of the Cape Peninsula, between Hout Bay and Noordhoek in Cape Town, South Africa. The western flank of the mountain falls sharply for hundreds of meters into the Atlantic Ocean, and a road, known as Chapman's Peak Drive, hugs the near-vertical face of the mountain, linking Hout Bay to Noordhoek. Tourists and locals often stop at viewpoints along this road, which offer views of Hout Bay, The Sentinel Peak and surrounds, as well as over Noordhoek Beach. Chapman's Peak Drive is part of the route of two of South Africa's biggest mass-participation races, the Cape Argus Cycle Race and the Two Oceans Marathon.

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier botanic gardens, celebrated for both its botanical richness and spectacular setting. Nestled against the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain, Kirstenbosch offers visitors a unique opportunity to experience South Africa’s remarkable floral diversity in a breathtaking natural landscape. The estate spans 528 hectares, with 36 hectares carefully cultivated to showcase a stunning array of indigenous plants, while the remaining area is a protected natural habitat featuring pristine fynbos, forests, and a wealth of wildlife. Visitors to the garden are often delighted by the abundance of birds, with over 125 species recorded, including sunbirds, sugarbirds, and various raptors, making it a paradise for birdwatchers.

In addition to its rich plant life, Kirstenbosch offers a variety of walking trails that wind through both the cultivated gardens and the surrounding natural areas. These paths provide visitors with immersive encounters with South Africa’s endemic flora, from towering trees to delicate wildflowers, all framed by the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain. The garden’s proximity to Table Mountain National Park further enhances its ecological significance, as both areas together form part of the Cape Floristic Region Protected Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site recognized in 2004 for its exceptional biodiversity.

Kirstenbosch is not only a haven for nature enthusiasts but also a cultural and recreational destination. Outdoor concerts, seasonal exhibitions, and educational programs allow visitors to engage with the garden in a variety of ways, making it a vibrant community space as well as a site of scientific importance. Whether exploring its trails, observing its wildlife, or simply soaking in the mountain views, Kirstenbosch offers an unforgettable experience that highlights the beauty and diversity of South Africa’s natural heritage.

You will be met in the lobby this morning for your transfer to the winelands.

Classic Cape Cuisine Walk in Stellenbosch

A visit to a beautiful eatery will ignite your senses when you are introduced to delicately crafted wines accompanied by appetizing treats. Equally enticing are the visits to local spots where each one will spoil you with traditional teas, desserts and lunch. Please note that this tour is not suitable for guests who require lactose and gluten-free meals. A Leisurely-paced walk coupled with entertaining stories about the town, visit the oldest restored townhouse in South Africa, sample home-grown teas paired with typical Cape sweet treats, taste traditional beef snacks, enjoy locally produced wines with appetizing delights and a heritage lunch platter at the oldest hotel in Stellenbosch.

We can accommodate most dietary types on most of the tours, however, it is crucial to inform us of your required dietaries. Non-alcoholic refreshment options are available for every tour - please don’t hesitate to inform your guide. The duration of this tour is around 3.4 - 4 hours.

Franschhoek Wine Tram Hop-on Hop-off

The Franschhoek Wine Tram hop-on hop-off tour is one of the best ways to discover the true essence of this picturesque valley, its rolling vineyards, breath-taking scenery, warm hospitality, world-class cuisine, fine wines and a 300-year history. The Hop-on Hop-off Experience, allows you to do just that – hop on and off as you like, experiencing the different activities on offer, be it wine tasting, a cellar tour, lunch or just a stroll through the vineyards. And when you’re ready, simply hop-on to continue your journey.

Take your pick between ten different lines, each visiting a selection of wine estates showcasing a separate part of the Franschhoek Valley. The Hop-on Hop-off experience allows you to curate and plan your own day. You get to choose how long you spend at each spot (within the line schedule, of course), where you eat, where you drink, and the activities you partake in. There are 10 lines to choose from which takes you to 8 or 9 top wine estates.

Your experience begins at either the Franschhoek Terminal or the Groot Drakenstein Terminal (depending on the line), where you can grab a coffee, beignet and browse for merchandise while waiting for your journey to start. From the terminals, you will be transported around your selected line’s loop of stops on a combination of double-decker tram and open-air tram-bus, allowing you to disembark when you like. Three wine tastings are included.

Franschhoek

French Huguenots settled in this spectacular valley over 300 years ago, bringing with them the vines that would shape the region’s identity. Ever since, Franschhoek has retained its French heritage, blending it seamlessly with South Africa’s natural beauty and vibrant culture. Often hailed as the country’s gastronomic capital, the town offers a culinary experience that is truly exceptional and choosing where to dine is a delightful challenge, with a wealth of award-winning restaurants, charming bistros, and cozy cafés. Beyond its culinary fame, Franschhoek is also home to numerous art galleries, stylish guesthouses, and boutique shops, making it one of the most enchanting towns in the Cape.

Franschhoek’s reputation for fine wine is legendary. The valley and surrounding mountain slopes are dotted with historic wine estates where visitors can relax, enjoy the breathtaking scenery, and sample a variety of exquisite wines. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the deep-rooted vigneron tradition of the area, dating back to the 16th century, with some of South Africa’s oldest and most celebrated wine estates calling this valley home. From bold reds to crisp whites and elegant blends, each estate tells a story through its carefully crafted wines, inviting visitors to savor the passion and skill behind every bottle.

The village itself is equally captivating. Boutique shops are scattered throughout the heart of Franschhoek, offering everything from high-fashion clothing and fine jewelry to antiques, home décor, and specialty foods. Wine shops and art galleries provide additional layers of discovery, ensuring there is something for every interest and taste.

Dining in Franschhoek is an experience in itself. Whether you seek a relaxed breakfast, a leisurely lunch, a family-friendly meal, or an intimate gourmet dinner for two, the town’s restaurants cater to all preferences and occasions. With menus that combine local ingredients, French-inspired techniques, and international flair, each dining experience is a celebration of flavor and creativity.

With its breathtaking scenery, rich history, world-class wines, and exceptional cuisine, Franschhoek is a destination that delights all the senses. Visitors leave with lasting memories of a valley that effortlessly blends heritage, natural beauty, and culinary excellence.

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal Flight from Cape Town International Airport to Hoedspruit

Shared transfer to your hotel

Kapama Private Game Reserve

Spanning 15 000 hectares of the pristine African bush, Kapama offers the perfect sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife. Over 40 different species of mammals including the Big 5 – elephant, lion, leopard, African buffalo and rhinoceros – as well as 350 bird species, thrive in their natural habitat. Guests are privileged to be able to observe these magnificent creatures in the wild with twice-daily guided game drives and after-breakfast bush walks to be fully submerged in the African bush experience.

Kapama’s four luxury lodges each have a charm of their own – Buffalo Camp delights with its old-world feel, Southern Camp offers warmth and hospitality, River Lodge is vibrant year-round and Karula is breathtakingly elegant. The more adventurous can also choose to spend a night in the romantic sleep-out.

According to the legend of the local people, the Shangaan, chiefs of the tribe who demonstrated acts of extreme bravery were honoured by being reborn as lions. Local lore says that if you look deep enough into the eyes of the lions of Kapama (at a distance that is!), you can see past the beast and into the soul of a Shangaan chief.

Folklore tells of a lone lion called Kapama who lived on the land. Kapama was an extraordinary beast and in addition to being enormous, he was a crafty animal. Every young man in the village had pitted their hunting skills against the great lion but he evaded them at every turn. Kapama was so good at thwarting his prey that people came to believe he was an ancient king who, through some misdeed, had been condemned to roam the land in the great animal’s body.

There came a period of great drought and strife in the area and the people and animals suffered greatly. But the great “king” Kapama knew where to locate water and was able to track the fattest game. The young men of the village had grown to revere the old king and followed the beast rather than hunting him and were able to feed their tribe. When the rains finally came, it fell on the hard earth in torrents, creating a river which was named Kapama. According to legend, the king had paid his dues and was never seen again. “Kapama” was the name given to the last chief of this revered bloodline.

Game Drives in Kapama Private Game Reserve

Immerse yourself in the peacefulness of the African bush at the luxurious Kapama Private Game Reserve. Spanning over 37,000 acres of pristine South African bush, Kapama offers the perfect sanctuary for a wide variety of wildlife. Kapama’s legendary game drives and guided bush walks offer guests the opportunity to explore diverse landscapes and prolific wildlife. The twice-daily game drives and educational bush walks are an essential part of the experience. Accompanied by a skilled guide and assistant guide, the game drives are a highlight of the day and encountering some (or all!) of the Big Five is a very definite possibility.

Early morning and early evening are the best time of day for game viewing. Spotting an elusive bat-eared fox retiring for the day, a dazzle of zebras starting their day or hearing the call of guineafowl as the day comes to an end means two game drives are never the same and offer different experiences at different times. What you see in the morning, afternoon or evening will be different from season to season and day to day. Under the guidance of a skilled guide and assistant guide, small groups (up to 8 guests) are taken into the reserve on foot and shown how to look for animals using traditional tracking skills such as footprints, spoor patterns and scent marking. The guides’ knowledge and experience extend to pointing out various plants that are used for their medicinal value. Look down and marvel at the world that is underfoot with the abundance of insects and creatures so often overlooked.

*** Domestic flights will be coordinated for the group but is not included in the pricing.

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal flight from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport to Livingstone Airport

Private transfer to the hotel

Sunset cruise on the Zambezi Explorer

The Zambezi Explorer Vessel is a custom-designed five-star cruise vessel that takes guests on a luxury trip along the Zambezi River. The Zambezi Explorer has three decks to choose from. Some people prefer to be high and have a wider vista from the uppermost deck, others prefer to be closer to the water, to get a closer look at the wildlife and birds on the river banks.

The Signature Deck, secured for this tour, is the uppermost level and it is pure extravagance with gourmet hors d'oeuvres and premium beverages served from a private bar. VIP guests can relax in the comfort of the deep-set couches and enjoy the pleasure of luxury service.

Harvesting the abundant sunshine, almost the entire onboard facilities are solar-powered. It has wheelchair access and wheelchair-friendly facilities.

The Experience: Cruise around the islands of the upper section of the Zambezi river. Such a large body of water understandably attracts a whole host of wildlife which comes from the often dry interior to quench their thirst. The river is home to great pods of hippo, which are now accustomed to these cruises which can get close to them without any danger. The more sinister-looking crocodiles are regularly seen basking on the banks or gliding through the water. Elephants, giraffe, buffalo, waterbuck, kudu, impala, baboons and monkeys, along with a plethora of exotic birds are regular sightings.

Internal flight from Hoedspruit to Johannesburg

Departure Flight from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport

Bid farewell to Africa, for now until your next Safari !

Tour of Victoria Falls

Embark on a guided tour of Victoria Falls, strolling through the lush rainforest that surrounds one of the world’s most awe-inspiring natural wonders. Your guide will provide a fascinating overview of the Falls’ history while highlighting the unique flora, fauna, birdlife, and wildlife that thrive in this extraordinary environment. As you meander along the scenic ravine paths, you’ll encounter breathtaking viewpoints and glimpses of the wildlife that inhabit the area. Guides are always happy to assist with photographs, ensuring your memories of this spectacular destination are perfectly captured. While raincoats are provided when needed, it is recommended to bring a small poncho to stay comfortable during the misty moments near the falls.

Victoria Falls is truly a marvel of nature. Towering columns of spray rise when the Zambezi River is in full flow, while the thunderous roar of falling water reverberates through the gorge below. Upstream, tranquil lagoons hide hippos and the occasional crocodile, adding an element of wild intrigue. The Falls drop between 90 and 107 meters into the Zambezi Gorge, with an average of 550,000 cubic meters of water plunging over the edge every minute.

Remarkably preserved in its natural state, Victoria Falls captivates visitors just as it did the legendary explorer David Livingstone in the 1860s. Declared a National Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the area is carefully protected, ensuring that this iconic natural wonder remains as inspiring and unspoiled as it has for centuries.

Elephant Encounter

The Elephant Encounter offers guests a rare and unforgettable opportunity to quietly observe some of Africa’s most charismatic wildlife in a pristine wilderness setting overflowing with raw natural beauty. This immersive experience lasts approximately 2.5 to 3 hours and invites guests to learn about, connect with, and truly appreciate elephants in a respectful, ethical, and natural way.

The excursion begins in an open-air thatch boma overlooking the beautiful Masuwe River. Against this breathtaking backdrop, guests receive an informative and inspiring presentation about the Elephant Sanctuary and Orphanage. Founded on the principles of rehabilitation, conservation, and education, the sanctuary’s mission is to create awareness of the challenges elephants face in the wild and highlight what could be lost without meaningful environmental stewardship.

From there, guests venture into the bush to spend time with the elephants themselves. The chance to stand close to these gentle giants, observe their unique personalities, and witness their interaction with dedicated handlers is often a deeply emotional experience. You may take photographs, marvel at their size, and watch them browse, communicate, and behave exactly as nature intended.

After the encounter, guests are invited to enjoy a selection of refreshments before being transferred back to their lodge or hotel taking with them memories that last a lifetime.

*** Domestic flights will be coordinated for the group but is not included in the pricing.

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal flight from Victoria Falls to OR Tambo International Airport

Departure Flight from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport

Bid farewell to Africa, for now until your next Safari !