Great Safaris Trip Itinerary for Website - Southern Africa

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.

Cape Town half day city tour

Wander through the Company's Garden and as you travel through the city you will get a good feel for the city and the cultural melting pot that it is. Continue onto the Castle of Good Hope which was built by the Dutch East India Company, between 1666 and 1679, as a maritime replenishment station and is the oldest surviving building in the country. Visit the gardens, known as the Company Gardens and admire the beautiful buildings constructed. Learn more about the history of the Cape, its significant role historically and in modern times. A day filled with information on the one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Groot Constantia

Groot Constantia wine farm is testimony of how one man’s love for wine established South Africa’s first wine farm in 1685. Groot Constantia continues to produce legendary wine since 1685. It is South Africa’s oldest wine-producing farm. The farm is an important part of World Wine Heritage and a world-class international tourism destination. So much so that it captures the rich and diverse heritage of South Africa. The farm delivers a unique cultural, social and historical experience, to locals and tourists alike. It delivers world-class, quality wines, sensory encounters and special experiences. It is an iconic example of the preservation of South African culture and heritage.

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.

Castle of Good Hope

The Castle of Good Hope is known locally as "The Castle". Its Dutch name is "Kasteel de Goede Hoop" and is a bastion fort built in the 17th century in Cape Town, South Africa. The Castle was originally located on the coastline of Table Bay but, following reclamation, the fort is now located a short distance inland within the Central Business District. The Castle was declared a historical monument (now a provincial heritage site) in 1936. Following restoration work in the 1980s, it is considered one of the best preserved example of a 17th century architectural structure .

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Lunch are included

*** The internal flight from Cape Town to Victoria Falls is not included in the land price

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal flight Cape Town to Victoria Falls Airport

Meet & Greet - Zimbabwe

Private transfer to the hotel

Ra-Ikane Sunset cruise

The Ra-Ikane I, II and III, offer a variety of cruises, including breakfast, lunch and sunset, as well as private charters. These boats represent the grace of a bygone era and honour the rich history of Victoria Falls and its explorers, adventurers and heroes. The Ra-Ikane fleet is owned and operated by Ilala Lodge Hotel, and provides unique and unsurpassed river cruises on the mighty Zambezi River.

Fashioned after David Livingstone’s exploration boat, the Ma-Robert, the Ra-Ikane boats are named after the instrumental guide, Lazarus Ra-Ikane, who accompanied and assisted Livingstone in his monumental discovery of the natural wonder, Victoria Falls. The monohull design of the Ra-Ikane boats enables them to navigate further up the Zambezi River and bring guests closer to the banks in the shallow water and, therefore, closer to all the action! With lots of space on the flat deck and a maximum of 16 passengers, there is plenty room to make yourself comfortable.

The well-appointed Ra-Ikane fleet was built to ensure that each guest is able to experience the wild beauty of the Zambezi River with ease and style. Our boats take a circular route around the islands to provide guests with a panoramic view of the upper and lower Zambezi River and the wildlife and birdlife it offers. Each Ra-Ikane boat has its own crew, made up of a friendly and knowledgeable captain, guide and waiter to ensure that you can sit back and enjoy the ride.

Enjoy snacks and local brand drinks during your sunset cruise.

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.

Victoria Falls Town

A genuine bucket-list destination, Victoria Falls is one of Africa’s most iconic tourist towns and a jewel of Zimbabwe. Celebrated worldwide as one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, the appeal of Victoria Falls extends far beyond the magnificent waterfall itself. The town sits within the greater Victoria Falls National Park, with the Zambezi National Park just upstream. Here, elephant, buffalo, and a variety of antelope such as impala, kudu, and waterbuck roam freely, often seen living in remarkable harmony with local residents.

The town offers an impressive variety of safari experiences, including game drives, guided walking safaris, riverboat safaris, and specialized birdwatching and fishing excursions. The mighty Zambezi River, both above and below the Falls, provides a playground of activities from serene sunset cruises to adrenaline-filled white-water rafting through the Batoka Gorge. Victoria Falls is also an ideal base for exploring the wider region, with easy access to premier wildlife destinations such as Hwange National Park (Zimbabwe), Chobe National Park (Botswana), and the many adventure and cultural offerings across the river in Livingstone (Zambia).

For a more relaxed experience, wander through the vibrant town center. Visit the charming Elephant’s Walk shopping village, dotted with boutique curio shops, a popular café, and a tranquil courtyard bursting with colorful flowers. Explore local craft markets showcasing talented artisans who create intricate stone and wood carvings. Just a short walk away, discover the award-winning Tammy Walker Gallery, featuring exceptional local photography. The town also boasts excellent restaurants, coffee shops, and even a craft brewery. Don’t miss The Lookout Café, renowned for its breathtaking views of the Victoria Falls Bridge and the dramatic gorges often accompanied by the thrill of watching daredevils bungee jump or swing into the canyon below.

The Lookout Café Victoria Falls

The Lookout Café is an iconic restaurant in Victoria Falls where casual dining is a decadent affair. Menus range from cocktails and canapes to diverse meal options for seated dinners.
Imported wine from South African vineyards and flavors foraged from nature make the ‘place on a plate’ sentiment a reality. Delicious food, staggering views and exceptional service make the Lookout Café a must-try place to eat out in Victoria Falls. The Cafe’s simplistic design creates a flow through, connecting indoor and outdoor dining space, offering diners a unique experience with breathtaking views. If you are looking for a fresh, vibrant menu with traditional as well as new flavors like local game meats and crocodile, situated in a great location then the Lookout Café is the place for you.

*** Internal flight from Victoria Falls to Mana Pools is included in the land price

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal flight from Victoria Falls to Mana Pools

Transfer to the lodge

Mana Pools

Situated in the northern region of Zimbabwe, on the southern banks of the Zambezi River, Mana Pools National Park will leave you breathless with its beauty. A paradise for walking and canoeing safaris, Mana Pools is a wildlife-rich, biodiverse wonderland that will delight at every turn. You can expect to spot hippopotamus, crocodile, elephants and a wonderful array of aquatic birds within this UNESCO World Heritage Site, and there’s a good chance of seeing lioness’ hunting around waterholes, where prey are seemingly easy pickings.

The landscapes are beautiful too, dotted with acacia trees, whose shade becomes vital to the parks’ more than 12,000-strong elephant population in the dry season, as well as a sprinkling of vibrant plant life. Far away from any human settlement, you’ll relish the feeling of remoteness here. Surrounded only by extreme wilderness, and if you visit in winter, you’ll find yourself exploring amongst the highest concentration of wildlife in Africa. An experience for which words can do no justice.

*** Local brand drinks and limited laundry included

Game Drives in Mana Pools

A game drive through Mana Pools National Park is a gift to the senses. This expansive wildlife conservation area in the north of Zimbabwe is one of Africa’s most renowned game-viewing regions countless species roaming the area. Discover the true sense of wilderness on a game drive in Mana Pools and be surprised by this intriguing African adventure.

Mana Pools are home to Zimbabwe’s largest population of hippos and crocodiles. During the dry season, these animals can be seen lining the banks of the pools sunning or grazing. Herds of elephants, buffalo and a variety of antelope species also congregate around available water sources between June and October. This in return attracts predators like lion, wild dog and hyena. The animals are easier to spot because the bush thins out and the wildlife concentrates around the Zambezi River and the pools on its floodplains.

A definite highlight on a game drive in Mana Pools, is the sight of elephants balancing on their legs and stretching their trunks to the sky, skillfully pulling nutritious leaves and pods off the albida trees. They have mastered the skill in order to survive the dry season when food is scarce.

*** Local brand drinks and limited laundry included

*** Internal flight from Mana Pools to Hwange National Park is included in the land price

Transfer to the airstrip

Internal flight from Mana Main airstrip to Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park

Hwange National Park is the largest in Zimbabwe, covering an impressive 14,650 sq km, with the main entrance located a two-hour drive or 30-minute flight south of Victoria Falls. The park is named after a local Nhanzwa chief, and was once the royal hunting ground for the Ndebele warrior-king Mzilikazi, before being classified as a protected National Park in 1929.

As you’d expect from a park of this size, the breadth of wildlife species is astounding. Over 100 species of mammals reside here, whilst almost 400 species of birds decorate the skies. Perhaps most exciting is the 40,000-strong population of tusker elephants, whose presence is world-renowned and a joy to watch day after day.

The dry season (from July to October) is the best time to visit Hwange, as large concentrations of wildlife– particularly the wonderful elephant herds – descend upon the area to drink from the waterholes in order to survive in this hot and unforgiving environment. Yet, whilst the rains from December to March will see the wildlife dispersing across the park, thus making them harder to spot, the summer showers also bring forth stunning vegetation. This ensures mesmeric bird-watching opportunities as the local population finds itself bolstered by the migrants coming down from the Northern Hemisphere. Hwange National Park truly is a year-round wonderland.

*** Local brand drinks and limited laundry included

Game Drives in Hwange National Park

Hwange was declared a national park in 1929, and today Zimbabwe's largest game reserve. Vast stretches of wilderness and form part of the ancient Elephant migration route towards Northern Botswana.

This diverse landscape of mopane and teak forests, semi-desert scrubland and granite hills is inhabited by a wide variety of mammals and birds. Although a year round destination, Hwange is particularly appealing during the winter months (April to October) when large concentrations of animals flock to artificially pumped waterholes as the seasonal pans dry out. The park's network of waterholes sustains life when natural resources are unavailable. Massive herds of elephant make their presence felt during the dry period. Buffalo, zebra, sable and roan antelope, as well as lion, leopard, cheetah and wild dog may be seen.

Cool mornings warm up to comfortable sunny days, and chilly night drives reveal the exciting nocturnal species which make Hwange home. Between November and February/March summer thunderstorms blanket the earth with life, filling up the waterholes and dispersing the animals throughout the park. Game can be located on the open southern plains during summer, but the scenic north is a renewed landscape of hills, floating lily-pads and full pans.

Guided walking safari

For those seeking an intimate experience beyond the thrill of Big Five sightings from a vehicle, a guided bush walk offers a rare opportunity to connect deeply with the African wilderness. On foot, you follow in the tracks of the bush’s wild inhabitants, breathing in the scent of crushed grasses and earth as the bush awakens all six senses. This is a safari experience that allows you to truly touch Africa and let Africa touch you.

Accompanied by an experienced walking safari guide, you discover the smaller wonders of the bush that often go unnoticed from a game drive. Learn the art of tracking, observing how close you can approach impala, nyala, or other small antelope without disturbing them. Explore the intricate details of the ecosystem, from the delicate geometry of a spider’s web to the industrious life of a dung beetle, gaining insight into the interconnectedness of all living things. Along the way, your guide will introduce you to the flora of the region, highlighting the aromas, textures, and traditional uses of wild herbs and plants. Every step is a lesson in patience, observation, and respect for nature. The experience is both thrilling and humbling, offering a heightened awareness of the environment as you learn to move silently and read the subtle signs of wildlife.

A guided walking safari is an immersive journey into the heart of Africa, where every sense is engaged, every discovery sparks wonder, and the bush reveals its secrets in a way that only walking can offer a truly unforgettable way to experience the African wilderness.

*** Local brand drinks and limited laundry included

*** Internal flight from Hwange National Park to Victoria Falls is included in the land price
*** Internal flight from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg is not included in the land price

Transfer to the airstrip

Internal Flight from Manga Airstrip to Victoria Falls

Internal flight from Victoria Falls to OR Tambo International Airport

Departure Flight from Victoria Falls

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