Great Safaris Final Trip Itinerary for Bob & Susan Savage Safari Group 2027

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.

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!

Boulders Penguin Sanctuary

Boulders Penguin Colony in Simon’s Town is home to a unique and endangered land-based colony of African Penguins. This colony is one of only a few in the world, and the site has become famous and a popular international tourist destination. The Boulders section of TMNP consists of 3 pristine beaches, 1 penguin viewing area and 3 boardwalks. The boardwalks were built as a measure to allow for viewing of these wonderful birds, whilst keeping them safe from poking fingers, so please be sure to stay on the boardwalks at all times within the viewing area. This beach is ideal for children as immense boulders shelter the cove from currents, wind and large waves. Please always take care; don’t touch or feed the penguins – they may look cute and cuddly but their beaks are as sharp as razors and if they feel threatened they have no qualms about nipping the odd finger or nose.

African Penguins were reclassified on 26 May 2010 from a Vulnerable to now Endangered status. In 1956 when the first full census was conducted on the African Penguin, there were approximately 150 000 breeding pairs counted. In 2009 there were only 26 000 breeding pairs left in the world. These numbers indicate a loss of more than 80% of breeding pairs in just over 50 years. The Boulders Penguin Colony was established in 1983 and numbers increased from surrounding island colonies to bring breeding numbers to 3 900 birds in 2005. Since then there has been a decrease. The 2011 figures sit at around 2100 birds at Boulders Penguin Colony. The decline at Boulders and the global decline is the suspected result of habitat destruction, effects of oil spills and other marine pollution, impacts of global warming on fish stocks and fish movement, over fishing, irresponsible tourism activities and domestic pets/animals

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.

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.

*** Lunch at a local restaurant: menu cost including gratuity, excluding drinks

Stellenbosch wine tour for a full day

Explore the fascinating town of Stellenbosch, browsing through appealing shops and museums, and awaken your senses with wine tasting experiences at an iconic wine estates. Soak up the scenery of this wonderful region, admire a contemporary art collection, see the highest-growing vines and take in breath-taking vistas from an elevated vantage point. Discover the town of Franschhoek, established by the French Huguenots in 1688, where historic charm blends with a contemporary ambiance. The town boasts a host of boutiques, gourmet restaurants and galleries. Continue to some family-owned, off-the-beaten-track estates for a more intimate, boutique wine tasting experience.

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal Flight from Cape Town International Airport to Hoedspruit

Private transfer to the lodge

Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Game Reserve, adjoining South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park, offers a safari experience unlike any other. Famous for its exceptional game viewing, the reserve is one of the best places in the world to encounter the legendary Big Five; lion, leopard, rhinoceros, buffalo, and elephant in their natural habitat. With no fences separating Sabi Sands from Kruger, wildlife roams freely across this pristine African wilderness, creating an authentic and immersive safari experience.

The reserve’s varied landscapes from open savannahs and grasslands to dense riverine forests support an extraordinary diversity of species. In addition to the Big Five, visitors may spot cheetahs silently stalking their prey, endangered African wild dogs on the move, giraffes browsing treetops, hippos submerged in rivers, and countless plains animals including zebras and antelope. Birdlife is equally impressive, with raptors, waterbirds, and rare species adding to the richness of the ecosystem.

Every game drive is a journey of discovery. Experienced guides and rangers track the animals and share their deep knowledge of behavior, ecology, and survival strategies, transforming each outing into a captivating learning experience. Sunrise and sunset drives offer particularly magical moments, with the soft golden light illuminating the landscape and creating the perfect backdrop for wildlife sightings.

Whether it is a leopard slinking through the bush, elephants moving majestically across the plains, or lions lounging in the shade, Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve promises unforgettable encounters at every turn. For wildlife enthusiasts and first-time safari-goers alike, the reserve delivers a truly extraordinary adventure, where every game drive reveals the drama, beauty, and intensity of Africa’s untamed wilderness.

*** Includes: Meals (excluding beverages), game drive sundowner, two daily game drives, a daily bush walk and Conservation Levy

Game Drives in Sabi Sands Game Reserve

Game drives in Sabi Sands are conducted in open 4x4 vehicles with professional driver-guides, offering an intimate and thrilling way to explore the African wilderness. Two game drives are offered each day, a morning drive and an afternoon drive, allowing guests to experience the bush at its most active hours. Returning to the lodge at sunset, a 'night drive' on the return journey provides a unique opportunity to encounter nocturnal species that remain hidden during daylight hours, from elusive civets and porcupines to prowling leopards and owls.

Sabi Sands is particularly famous for its remarkable leopard sightings making the reserve one of the finest destinations for wildlife photography. In addition to the Big Five the reserve supports a rich diversity of wildlife, including cheetahs, wild dogs, giraffes, and over 300 species of birds. Every drive promises breathtaking encounters and unforgettable photographic opportunities.

What sets Sabi Sands apart is the expertise of its guides and trackers. Many have grown up in the Kruger region and possess an instinctive understanding of the bush. They read the landscape like a morning newspaper, interpreting tracks, broken branches, animal calls, and subtle signs that reveal the location and behavior of wildlife. This unique skill, combined with extensive training and passion for conservation, ensures that every safari is both safe and profoundly insightful. Guests leave not only with memories of awe-inspiring wildlife but also with a deeper appreciation of the delicate balance of the African ecosystem.

Whether tracking a leopard through dense thickets, witnessing elephants at a waterhole, or spotting a shy nocturnal predator, each game drive in Sabi Sands is a masterclass in wildlife observation and an unforgettable journey into the heart of Africa.

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.

*** Includes: Meals (excluding beverages), game drive sundowner, two daily game drives, a daily bush walk and Conservation Levy

Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve

Sabi Sands Game Reserve, adjoining South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park, offers a safari experience unlike any other. Famous for its exceptional game viewing, the reserve is one of the best places in the world to encounter the legendary Big Five; lion, leopard, rhinoceros, buffalo, and elephant in their natural habitat. With no fences separating Sabi Sands from Kruger, wildlife roams freely across this pristine African wilderness, creating an authentic and immersive safari experience.

The reserve’s varied landscapes from open savannahs and grasslands to dense riverine forests support an extraordinary diversity of species. In addition to the Big Five, visitors may spot cheetahs silently stalking their prey, endangered African wild dogs on the move, giraffes browsing treetops, hippos submerged in rivers, and countless plains animals including zebras and antelope. Birdlife is equally impressive, with raptors, waterbirds, and rare species adding to the richness of the ecosystem.

Every game drive is a journey of discovery. Experienced guides and rangers track the animals and share their deep knowledge of behavior, ecology, and survival strategies, transforming each outing into a captivating learning experience. Sunrise and sunset drives offer particularly magical moments, with the soft golden light illuminating the landscape and creating the perfect backdrop for wildlife sightings.

Whether it is a leopard slinking through the bush, elephants moving majestically across the plains, or lions lounging in the shade, Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve promises unforgettable encounters at every turn. For wildlife enthusiasts and first-time safari-goers alike, the reserve delivers a truly extraordinary adventure, where every game drive reveals the drama, beauty, and intensity of Africa’s untamed wilderness.

*** Includes: Meals (excluding beverages), game drive sundowner, two daily game drives, a daily bush walk and Conservation Levy

Private transfer to the Airport

Internal flight Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport to Victoria Falls

Meet & Greet - Zimbabwe

Private transfer to the hotel

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.

Malachite Dinner Sunset Cruise

Like the exquisite bird after which it was named, “Malachite” is one of the Zambezi River’s crowning gems, offering the best dinner cruise in Victoria Falls. Guests are welcomed on board with a refresher towel and chilled flute of sparkling wine before they settle down on the top floor of the vessel for a sunset cruise before dinner.

Amuse bouche and snack platters are served while the sun sinks below the shimmering surface of the Zambezi. A barman and three intuitive waiters anticipate guests’ needs, serving a selection of lively cocktails and imported premium spirits throughout their journey. The plush, cushioned furniture and high vantage point on the upper deck provide the ideal space to watch one of Victoria Falls famous sunsets.

After the sun has sunk below the river line, dinner is served on the lower deck of the vessel, exemplifying the hallmarks of exquisite cuisine prepared on board by two Chefs. The rich aroma of locally sourced, fresh ingredients wafts around diners as the dishes are plated.

Time seems to stand still as the boat gently glides along to the sound of water lapping up against her sides. Far removed from the glare of city lights and noise, the moon and stars shine brightly in the sky and an atmosphere of mystery and romance envelopes the evening’s experience. The seven-course meal and all-inclusive drinks on board the luxurious Malachite are great value for money and promise an exceptional sunset dinner cruise experience in Victoria Falls.

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.

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.

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.

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 !