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Highlights of Southern Africa
Highlights of Southern Africa
Duration: 11 Days
Visit all that Southern Africa has to offer including the majestic Victoria Falls, the natural beauty of Cape Town and the incredible private game reserves near the world famous Kruger National Park! Visiting southern Africa is often called 'Africa Light' in that the infrastructure is solid, the cuisine is amazing and the people are warm and welcoming!
Countries visited:
South Africa, Zimbabwe
Places visited:
Cape Town, Johannesburg, Sabi Sands Private Game , Stellenbosch, Victoria Falls
PLAN YOUR NEXT TRIP WITH
Leon Vogel & Betsy
Protravel International Scottsdale
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DAY 1:
Johannesburg
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Arrival in South Africa
Welcome to your travel itinerary for your unforgettable journey to South Africa. We are delighted to be a part of your travel experience and have carefully curated this trip to the very best that South Africa has to offer. Touch down in Johannesburg, South Africa's city of gold, the bustling heartbeat of South Africa and the perfect launchpad for your African Adventure. Your journey begins as you arrive at OR Tambo (JNB) International Airport off your international flight. You will be met by a VIP representative who will assist you with your immigration formalities and luggage collection. Proceed to the international arrivals hall, exit the terminal building and walk across to your hotel. InterContinental Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport is situated just opposite the International Arrivals Hall - only a few steps from the terminal - this award-winning luxury hotel offers unmatched convenience for travelers arriving or departing via Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Convenient and comfortable accommodations 100 steps from international arrivals.
DAY 2:
Victoria Falls
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Staying in Zambezi National Park
After an early breakfast and check-out, make your way across to the airport building and proceed to the international check-in counters as your journey to Victoria Falls begins. Depart Johannesburg and fly north to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Upon arrival you will feel the pace slow, and the air grow misty as you enter a land shaped by nature's power and beauty. Nestled in the heart of Southern Africa, Zimbabwe is a country of breathtaking landscapes, warm hospitality, and rich cultural heritage. From the thundering Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River to Wildlife-rich national parks and ancient ruins, Zimbabwe offers a perfect blend of natural wonder and authentic African Charm. Meet your representative from Victoria Falls River Lodge and depart on a shared road transfer to your lodge. Upon arrival - Check-in - Your home for the next 3 nights Spend the day at leisure and then hop in a boat for a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Arriving to the hotel by boat is very special. The treehouses here are our favorite.
DAY 3:
Victoria Falls
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Relaxing on the Zambezi River
Victoria Falls River Lodge, on the banks of the mighty Zambezi River, boasts 2 Private Luxury Villas, 19 Luxury Tented Suites (each with a private deck and plunge pool), 6 secluded Island Treehouse Suites (sheltered amidst the treetops of the private Kandahar Island), spacious open-plan dining, lounge, and bar areas, an onsite fitness centre and the indulgent Toa Spa. The first privately owned safari lodge to be built within the Zambezi National Park (Zimbabwe), the Lodge is ideally located for exploring Victoria Falls and combines the African Safari experience with one of the 7 Natural Wonders of the World – the iconic Victoria Falls – the spray of which can be seen in the distance! Catering to a wide variety of tastes and preferences - from high-energy adventure enthusiasts to those seeking peace, relaxation, and tranquility; corporates; families; honeymooners; retirees embracing their golden years - Victoria Falls River Lodge offers something for everyone.
HIGHLIGHTS:
A visit to see the mighty Falls is a must
DAY 4:
Victoria Falls
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game drives in Zambezi National Park
Every day you will have the choice of two activities centered around seeing wildlife. You can choose a safari truck to find animals in the national park or you can choose a private or semi-private boat cruise to look for birds and mammals along the river. This is a great day to relax and enjoy the river lodge. Make sure you take advantage of the Virtuoso amenities you receive when booking with us.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The colorful birds, birds of prey and hippos are great to see!
DAY 5:
Cape Town
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time for city life in Cape Town
After a final morning in the misty magic of Victoria Falls, you will be transferred on a shared basis to the airport for your flight to Cape Town, South Africa's iconic coastal city, known affectionately as the Mother City, Cape town offers a dramatic change of scenery - from cascading falls and wildlife to oceans, mountains and world-class culture. Framed by the iconic Table Mountain and lapped by the waters of two oceans, Cape town is a vibrant city where natural beauty meets rich history and culture. Cape Town is one of the world's most beautiful cities and a top international destination. Enjoy this unique city with its fascinating history, interesting culture, natural beauty, award winning wines and laidback lifestyle. Whether you are a serious tourist or just want to lie on the beach and enjoy life, Cape Town will satisfy your needs. Overnight: Cape Cadogen or other boutique hotel
HIGHLIGHTS:
Take in a dinner specializing in local Cape Malay cuisine
DAY 6:
Cape Town
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Cape Point tour and time to see the endangered African Penguins
Today your tour begins, after an early breakfast you will be met by your driver-guide and embark on a Full Day Cape Point & Peninsula Tour. Discover the dramatic beauty of hidden gems of South Africa's most iconic coastline. From the beaches of Camps Bay to the Windswept Cliffs for Cape Point, this full-day adventure offers more than just sightseeing - its soul stirring experience where ocean, mountain and wildlife come together in breathtaking harmony. There are any stops along the way, but rest assured the drive between two oceans is stunning! A great day to put on your walking shoes to enjoy the natural beauty you'll experience on this tour.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The Cape is the place for fresh seafood.
DAY 7:
Stellenbosch
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Wine Tasting in the Cape province
There are many options for your day of visiting working vineyards and beautiful towns in the Cape. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl offer different experiences. Our recommendation is to visit three wineries, lunch in town or at Lanzarac, the home of Pinotage, shopping the galleries in one of the three towns, or a visit to a local farm.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Visit Ernie Els's winery and trophy room if you're a golf fan.
DAY 8:
Sabi Sands Private Game
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safari in a private game reserve
Today your magical safari adventure begins. After an early breakfast, and check-out you will be met by a private driver and will be transferred to Cape Town (CPT) International Airport in time for your onward flight to Skukuza (SZK). On arrival into Skukuza (SZK), you will be met by a private driver and will be transferred for +/- 1 hour and 30 minutes to the beautiful Lions Sands River Lodge situated in the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve - Your home for the next 4 nights. After arriving at the lodge, you will have time to freshen up before departing on the afternoon safari in search of Africa's wild and beautiful animals.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Seeing a male lion or a leopard is a thrill.
DAY 9:
Sabi Sands Private Game
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Safari days
The Sabi Sands is South Africa's premier private game viewing destination. It was here that the southern African safari began and today this famous reserve offers exceptional game viewing and equally exceptional accommodations. Two perennial rivers, the Sabi and the Sand flow through this Game Park, sustaining the diverse fauna and flora of the area. The success of leopard viewing within the Sabi Sands is legendary. Elephants, lion, rhino, buffalo, cheetah, giraffe, zebra and a vast variety of antelope and other species can be closely observed in their natural environment. A Typical day on safari 05:30 - Wake-up call 06:00 - morning game activity 09:00 -Return from game activity and enjoy breakfast 13:00 - Lunch 16:00 Afternoon tea on camp deck followed by afternoon game activity and sundowners in the bush 19:00 - Return for the afternoon activity and either freshen up first or head straight to dinner Basis Fully Inclusive -lodging, All Meals, Fees and Activities
HIGHLIGHTS:
You never know what is around the next bend in the road.
DAY 10:
Sabi Sands Private Game
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Safari days
Another exciting day on safari. Make sure you go for a bush walk with your tracker and guide. Enjoy a relaxing massage one afternoon, take an outdoor shower. Enjoy the nature all around you.
HIGHLIGHTS:
The sights and the sounds of the bush are incredible
DAY 11:
Sabi Sands Private Game
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Time to say good bye to the bush and your international departure.
After your game drive and breakfast, proceed with your check-out formalities. You will be met by your driver in the lodge reception area and depart for your private transfer to Skukuza (SZK) Airport where you will board your onward flight to Johannesburg (JNB) for your connecting international flight back home. This is your last chance to spot animals in the wild. Most international flights leave after 1600 with many as late as 2200. We can arrange for a day room at the adjacent hotels to the airport in Johannesburg, or you can relax in one of the international lounges.
HIGHLIGHTS:
Last morning game drive before the homeward journey.
FINAL THOUGHTS
This is a fabulous itinerary that is mostly centered around nature. The stop in Cape Town in the middle of the journey breaks up the long days on safari.