South Africa Itinerary
Welcome to South Africa
Our visit to South Africa promises a diverse and enriching experience, starting with the vibrant city of Cape Town. Nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the azure waters of the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town boasts a rich blend of history and modernity. We will explore the historic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned, and take a cable car ride up Table Mountain for breathtaking panoramic views.
We will venture into Stellenbosch, an enchanting town in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Here, you can indulge in a wine-tasting extravaganza at renowned vineyards, experiencing the flavors of South African wines.
Finally, for an unforgettable wildlife experience, we will head to Kruger National Park, a sprawling haven for diverse fauna. We’ll embark on thrilling safari adventures to witness the “Big Five” (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) and be immersed in the untamed beauty of the African wilderness. South Africa promises a remarkable blend of cultural richness, natural beauty, and unforgettable experiences for every traveler.
Day-at-a-Glance
March 10-21, 2025
Day Description Accommodation
Day 1 Arrive in Cape Town Noordhoek Village Hotel
Day 2 Cape Town Noordhoek Village Hotel
Day 3 Cape Town Noordhoek Village Hotel
Day 4 Stellenbosch Van Der Sal Manor
Day 5 Stellenbosch Van Der Sal Manor
Day 6 Kruger National Park Skukuza Rest Camp
Day 7 Kruger National Park Skukuza Rest Camp
Day 8 Kruger National Park Satara Rest Camp
Day 9 Moholoholo Moholoho Forest Camp
Day 10 Timbavati Motswari Private Reserve
Day 11 Timbavati Motswari Private Reserve
Day 12 Departure to Johannesburg or Victoria Falls
DAY 1 March 10
Cape Town
Arrive in Cape Town. You’ll be greeted at the airport and taken to our hotel, where you’ll have time to unpack and relax. Depending on arrival times and our energy levels, we’ll spend the afternoon exploring, including a visit to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. Set against the backdrop of Table Mountain, the garden features a remarkable array of indigenous plants, beautifully landscaped gardens, and tree-canopy walkways, providing a tranquil and educational escape in a stunning natural setting.
Accommodations: Noordhoek Village Hotel
DAY 2 March 11
Cape Point and Boulders Beach
Cape Point, located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula in South Africa, offers breathtaking panoramic views of the rugged coastline and the meeting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. While there, you will explore the iconic lighthouse, hike scenic trails, and spot diverse wildlife, including the endemic Mountain Zebra and Cape Fur Seals, in the stunning Cape Point Nature Reserve.
Boulders Beach is a crucial conservation area with a breathtaking sandy haven where visitors can marvel at adorable African penguins waddling and frolicking amidst massive granite boulders against the backdrop of the turquoise ocean.
Accommodations: Noordhoek Village Hotel
DAY 3 March 12
Robben Island and Cape Town
Morning ferry to Robben Island with a tour of the political prison, followed by a walking tour of Cape Town
Seeing Robben Island is a poignant and historically significant experience. This UNESCO World Heritage Site was once a notorious political prison where Nelson Mandela and many other anti-apartheid activists were held. Today, guided tours of the island provide powerful insight into the country's struggle for freedom. Visitors can see the prison cells, visit the lime quarry where prisoners labored, and hear firsthand accounts from former political prisoners, making it a moving and educational journey through South Africa's history.
Cape Town's Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, often referred to as the V&A Waterfront, is a bustling and vibrant hub for dining, shopping, and entertainment, with a picturesque backdrop of Table Mountain. Visitors can explore a diverse range of restaurants, boutiques, and cultural attractions while enjoying beautiful harbor views and a lively atmosphere in the heart of Cape Town.
Accommodations: Noordhoek Village Hotel
DAY 4 March 13
Cable car up Table Mountain - travel to Stellenbosch
Table Mountain offers a breathtaking experience as you ascend the iconic flat-topped mountain via cable car or hike to the summit. Once at the top, you’ll be rewarded with panoramic views of the city, the surrounding ocean, and the stunning landscapes, making it a must-visit attraction for nature enthusiasts and adventurers.
We’ll take a scenic drive back via Chapmans Peak, with a stop in Hout Bay for lunch.
Accommodations: Van Der Sal Manor
DAY 5 March 14
Stellenbosch Wine Land
Franschhoek is a picturesque town in the Western Cape of South Africa, and is a delightful experience for lovers of wine, gourmet cuisine, and stunning scenery. Known as the food and wine capital of South Africa, Franschhoek (or ‘French corner’) is home to world-class vineyards, award-winning restaurants, and a charming village atmosphere. It’s the perfect destination for a culinary and cultural escape in the heart of the Cape Winelands.
Accommodations: Van Der Sal Manor
DAY 6 March 15
Flight to Kruger National Park
We will take a three-hour flight across the country to the iconic Greater Kruger National Park. When we arrive we will transfer to evening’s accommodations and embark on late afternoon game drive.
Accommodations: Skukuza Rest Camp
DAY 7 March 16
Kruger Nation Park
Kruger National Park, located in South Africa, is one of the largest and most renowned wildlife reserves in the world. It offers first-time visitors an unparalleled opportunity to witness the "Big Five" (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) in their natural habitat, alongside a diverse range of other species, all within stunning landscapes that vary from savannah to riverine forests
Accommodations: Skukuza Rest Camp
DAY 8 March 17
Kruger National Park
Situated in northeastern South Africa, Kruger National Park is one of Africa's largest and most renowned wildlife reserves. Covering nearly two million hectares, the park is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), as well as numerous other species of animals, birds, and flora. It offers an unparalleled safari experience with the opportunity to see these animals in their natural habitat, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.
We will be staying in a privately owned section of the greater Kruger affording us exclusive game viewing away from the more commercial sectors open to the general public.Immersed in the untamed beauty of the African wilderness, we will make our way to our accommodations on the banks of the Sabie River.
Accommodations: Satara Rest Camp
DAY 9 March 18
Moholoholo
Moholoholo is a wildlife rehabilitation center located in South Africa, renowned for its dedication to rescuing and rehabilitating injured and orphaned animals. Nestled in the picturesque Limpopo province, the center plays a vital role in conservation efforts, providing a safe haven for a diverse range of species while actively promoting environmental awareness.
Accommodations: Moholoholo Forest Camp
DAY 10 March 19
Kruger National Park - Motswari Private Reserve
Renowned for its remoteness, exceptional safari viewing and supreme hospitality, the park is home to an astonishing array of wildlife, including the "Big Five" (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros), as well as numerous other species of animals, birds, and flora. It offers an unparalleled safari experience with the opportunity to see these animals in their natural habitat, making it a prime destination for wildlife enthusiasts and conservationists.
We will be staying in a privately owned section of the greater Kruger affording us exclusive game viewing away from the more commercial sectors open to the general public.Immersed in the untamed beauty of the African wilderness, we will make our way to our accommodations on the banks of the Sabie River.
Accommodations: Motswari Private Game Reserve
DAY 11 March 20
Kruger National Park - Private Reserve
From our lodge we will do morning and afternoon game drives when the animals are most active, giving us the middle of the day to relax, enjoy the spa, or even go on a bushwalk with our safari ranger.
Visiting Timbavati Private Reserve within the greater Kruger National Park offers an exclusive and exceptional safari experience in one of South Africa’s most renowned wildlife reserves. Here, we will embark on thrilling game drives and guided safaris to witness the Big Five and other incredible wildlife, all while enjoying luxurious accommodations in a pristine African wilderness setting.
In an effort to increase the conservation area of the Kruger, private properties have dropped fences and wildlife moves freely between these properties
Accommodations: Motswari Private Game Reserve
Day 12 March 21
Farewell - morning transport to Johannesburg Airport
Today we will travel to Johannesburg for our flights home. We’ll say goodbye to our new friends and take home memories of our amazing adventures.
OR
Add on 3 days to Victoria Falls (additional fee applies)
PRICE
Price per person starting at (Shared Room): $5,500
Group size is 6 - 8 participants.
Accommodations subject to change based on availability
Meet your guides
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Kim Malcolm
FOUNDER, MALCOLM TRAVEL PARTNERS
Read more about Kim here.
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Gavin Sims
Gavin has been guiding since 1998, and has more than a decade of experience with safaris and walking trails in Big Five territory. He’s passionate about birding, wildlife, culture, and cuisine.