Arrive in Cape Town

This evening, arrive in Cape Town, South Africa’s “Mother City”. Upon arrival, you will be met and escorted to our hotel. The provincial capital, Cape Town, is a sophisticated city with plenty to see and do, particularly around the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront area, where delightful buildings of the Cape Dutch and Victorian-era architecture have been restored as shops, restaurants, museums and pubs, while the busy water traffic of the docks goes on unabated.

Our home for the next three nights, the Vineyard hotel and Spa, harbors over 200 years of history within its walls. It is situated on six acres of attractive landscaped parkland on the banks of the Liesbeeck River. Located in the lush leafy suburb of Newlands, the Vineyard Hotel & Spa is within easy walking distance of the up-market Cavendish Shopping Centre and is just 10 minutes away from the City Center and the popular Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. This beautiful establishment comprises the original home of Lady Anne Barnard and new bedrooms designed by highly acclaimed architects Jack Barnett and Revel Fox. It is filled with works by leading South African artists and offers rooms ranging from single to family suites, both mountain- and courtyard-facing. (Meals Aloft)

Cape Town and the Cape Peninsula

Our luxury motorcoach takes us on a breathtaking coastal drive to the Cape of Good Hope. We are surrounded by spectacular mountains, rugged shorelines, and the blue sea below. See Devil's Peak, Lion's Head, Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles. Pass quaint seaside towns as we continue to Cape Point where the stormy waters of the Atlantic meet up with the calm waters of the Indian Ocean. At Cape Point, climb the steps or ride a funicular to the top where you can explore a lighthouse, enjoy the views, or even indulge in a bit of shopping. Take a close look at the ocean where you may see southern right whales in the spring and early summer as well as dolphins and a variety of seabirds. We also have the chance to explore the Cape Point Nature Reserve which is host to approximately half of the 2,700 species of indigenous plants contained in the Cape Peninsula. Look for the distinctive orange found in leucospermums, one of the rarest types of proteas – the mimites, marvel at the helicrysums and pelarganium calcullums, and enjoy the ericas, phenacomas and fine bush which the Dutch called “fynbos.” There are 250 species of birds in the reserve, ranging from ostriches to minuscule sunbirds. Caracal, chacma baboon, a wide variety of buck and various other mammal species may be seen, including Cape Mountain zebra and the bontebok which is endemic to this part of the world. The baboons feed occasionally on marine foods which they garner at low tide. At Olifants Bay, look for Oystercatchers, and enjoy some superb birding.

Enjoy lunch at Bertha’s restaurant and continue to Boulders Beach where the African (Jackass) Penguins can be seen – also known as the Black-footed Penguins. These flightless seabirds are found only on the coast of Southern Africa and are the only species of penguins found on this continent. Enjoy a delightful walk on a specially built platform onto the little sheltered beach where they nest among the rocks, and "waddle" up and down into and out of the sea. Since the penguins are accustomed to human presence you can safely get within a few feet of them as you stand on the platform, and it is sometimes possible to view them nesting behind rocks and bushes.

Return to Cape Town and enjoy a welcome dinner that starts with some interactive djembe drumming at GOLD Restaurant. This is an authentic African experience that takes you on a 14-dish taste-safari paired with traditional Mali puppets and entertainment. (Breakfast / Lunch / Welcome Dinner)

Table Mountain / Kirstenbosch Gardens

Get a feel for what Cape Town is all about by taking the cable car to the top of Table Mountain, the emblematic sight of this city. This tour is dependent on the wind factor, as well as the clouds. Clouds often cover this flat-topped mountain, which rises to 3,563 feet above sea level and the locals affectionately say it’s a white tablecloth. Legend has it that a retired pirate, on climbing the mountain, met up with the devil. In order to preserve his soul, the pirate challenged the devil to a smoking contest. So, they stoked up their pipes and have been smoking ever since. For centuries Table Mountain has been a guiding beacon to mariners rounding the Cape of Southern Africa.

Sir Francis Drake described it as "the most-stately thing and the fairest cape we saw in the whole circumference of the earth." For nature lovers, the birding is awesome, and the wildflowers include agapanthus, watsonias, and red nerines which poke out from rock crevices amid a scrub of ericas and gnarled proteas. More than 1400 species of flowering plants have been recorded on the mountain, which makes it a spectacular sight in the spring. Cute guinea pig-like creatures known as rock dassies, or hyraxes, (genetically, the closest living relatives to elephants) scuttle everywhere. They are not afraid and scamper among the tourists seeking to be fed.

Have lunch at Moyo Kirstenbosch and continue to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, arguably one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. Founded in 1913, Kirstenbosch lies on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and consists of landscaped gardens of indigenous plants and trees, watered by the Liesbeek River, as well as natural forest that extends up to the lower slopes. Kirstenbosch covers an area of 1,383 acres, 148 of which are cultivated; the remainder is a natural flora reserve. It is a living display featuring 9,000 of the estimated 20,000 species of indigenous South African flora, and close to 50% of the peninsula’s floral wealth. In the cultivated area, related plants are grouped together and radiate from the central lawns like the spokes of a wheel. Among the interesting sections here are the Cycad Amphitheatre, which hosts most species of these “living fossils” found in southern Africa; the famed Protea Garden on the higher slopes, with its profuse growth of silver trees (Leucadendron argenteum); the JV Mathews Rock Garden (named after the first curator) containing succulents of the genera Crassula, Aloe, Lampranthus and Euphorbia; the Erica Garden and the Pelargonium Koppie.

Two streams cut through Kirstenbosch, both laced with besembos, red alder, and hard fern. Of historical interest is an avenue of camphor trees and fig trees planted by Cecil Rhodes in 1898, and a small section of wild almond (Brabejum stellatifolium) hedge planted by Dutch settler Jan van Riebeeck in 1660. Birds of all sorts can be seen here as well – Dusky and Paradise Flycatchers, sunbirds, Klaas's cuckoos, bulbuls, pigeons, brilliant green and red Cape Sugarbirds (which pollinate the flowers), guinea fowls, and the Cape Batis. (All Meals)

Transfer from Cape Town to Hermanus

After breakfast this morning we check out and leave Cape Town behind as we drive to Hermanus on the world-famous whale coast of South Africa. Hermanus is generally considered the best land-based whale-watching destination in the world. From June to December, the bay becomes the swimming grounds for a large number of southern right whales. At that time of year it is also quite possibly the only place in the world where one can see a mighty whale and a great white shark on the same boat trip (all less than 20 minutes from the harbor). While there may not be many whales in April, this is a coveted travel destination year-round as it is warm and beautiful and is home to unequalled marine life all year around.

We stay at The Marine, a five-star hotel considered one of South Africa’s most spectacular seaside hotels, overlooking Walker Bay and Cape Point. The Hotel offers 40 individually decorated bedrooms and luxury suites, each adorned with rich textures, bathrooms, and living spaces with minibars, tea & coffee-making machines. Free in-room Wi-Fi is available to all guests, along with dry cleaning/laundry services and a bar. (Breakfast)

Marine Adventures

Enjoy a boat-based excursion from Gansbaai, weather permitting. Once we have arrived at The Great White House in Gansbaai, we receive a brief introductory talk about the route, safety, and what to look out for. Passengers are fitted with comfortable life jackets and waterproof jackets. Trip lengths are between 2 and 2.5 hours, depending on sightings and weather conditions. Dyer Island is located 4.9 miles from shore and is an access controlled Important Bird Area (IBA) for the conservation of its many resident bird species, including African penguins. Adjacent to Dyer Island is Geyser Rock, home to a 60,000-strong Cape fur seal colony. These seals are present all year round. We venture by boat into the channel between Dyer Island and Geyser Rock, a world-famous channel called “Shark Alley.”

Optional Shark Cage Diving ($300 per person, additional):
Seize this prime opportunity to experience the thrill of a lifetime and feel the exposure of diving with nature’s most feared predator while remaining safe inside a shark cage. This trip focuses on the natural predation and breaching of sharks as well as shark cage diving. The expedition operates in small groups and takes a maximum of 7 guests per trip. As the groups are small, the tour provides an intimate adventure as well as an opportunity to experience the guide’s knowledge and passion for the sharks and the area. The cage is fixed to the boat and guests are allowed to snorkel in the cage (diving certification is not required for this adventure). (Breakfast)

Cape Winelands

After breakfast this morning we check out and depart for the Winelands region of the Cape. This part of South Africa could accurately be described as an artist’s pallet. We are engulfed by a tapestry of vineyards interwoven with the historic towns of Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek at the base of the Boland Mountains. The cradle of the South African fruit and wine industries, every season offers enchanting foliage: spring flowers, summer fruits, autumn leaves, and the fresh greenery of the rainy winter.

We discover the internationally acclaimed vineyards of Stellenbosch, Paarl, and Franschhoek on the Western Cape, along a most scenic route. Enjoy lunch and wine pairing at Flavours Restaurant, and in the afternoon, visit the historic estate of Boschendal with some of the most brilliantly preserved Cape Dutch buildings in the Cape, and its collection of priceless period furniture. Visitors to Boschendal can savor exceptional wines as well as sample limited releases only available on the estate in the course of a gourmet chocolate encounter.

Our accommodations for the next two nights are immersed in the Cape Provençal style. Some will call it an Auberge, others an exclusive country inn. From any point of view, Le Quartier Français is a splash of style in the heart of the historic village of Franschhoek, a quaint corner of the Cape Winelands that is forever a little French. The origins of Le Quartier Français are steeped in the history of the Cape Winelands – the original buildings were laborers’ cottages which were upgraded and used as different forms of accommodation until the first restaurant was opened on this site. Le Quartier Français welcomes visitors from all over the globe who come here to dine in fine style and sleep in rooms with spectacular views. The newly refurbished, spacious rooms are stylishly furnished with modern fittings, refreshing colors, and brilliant hand-painted fabrics. Set in tranquil surroundings, the reception, lounge, and 11 Auberge rooms plus additional suites are set against the mystic backdrop of the Franschhoek Mountains and overlook a central landscaped garden with a natural pool. The beautiful lodge is known for its quality food and restaurants. (Breakfast / Lunch)

Winelands Tour Aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram

The Franschhoek Wine Tram is one of the best ways to discover the true essence of the Franschhoek Valley’s picturesque vineyards, breathtaking scenery, warm hospitality, world-class cuisine, fine wines, and 300 years of history. Experience a unique and leisurely way to see the Franschhoek Valley on a Curated tour of vineyards in a double-decker tram and open-air tram bus, stopping at some of South Africa's oldest and most distinguished wine estates. A combination of tram and tram bus transports passengers through the vineyards. The tour takes passengers right into the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, with a narration focusing on the history of Franschhoek and wine cultivation in the valley, and unparalleled views of the valley and vineyards.

Taste South African wines and enjoy the Cape Winelands scenery during this full-day wine tram experience around Franschhoek. Visit three top wineries and learn more about local grape varieties, cultivars, and aspects of viticulture. The curated tour includes lunch, wine tastings, and a wine pairing.

Included:

• Three top wine estates
• Full-day immersive wine experience in the Franschhoek Valley starts at 10:30 am
• Includes wine lecture and PREMIUM wine tasting South African Wine History & Wine Making Process Vineyard & Cellar Tour
• Aroma Experience and 3-course lunch paired with wine
• Premium wine tasting
• Ends at 17h00

Kruger National Park

We return to Cape Town this morning and board our scheduled flight to Kruger National Park (Skukuza), one of the world's great national parks. It is home to an unparalleled diversity of wildlife and is maintained by one of the world's most sophisticated management systems. Five rivers cross the park from west to east. There are 300 different types of trees, 49 species of fish, 34 types of amphibians, 116 different reptilian species, 505 species of birds and 147 species of mammals in the park.

Our guide will interpret the ecosystems and animal behavior, and help us identify the interwoven strands in the web of life here. The park is frequented by browsers and grazers such as giraffe, kudu, impala, zebra, wildebeest, and buffalo. Elephant and white rhino are also common. Predators include lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena, and side-striped jackal, as well as wild dog.

Within the untouched wilderness of the Kruger National Park, Imbali Safari Lodge continues the tradition of safari in the romantic style of the past. Set on the banks of the Nwatswitswonto River, this haven comprised of twelve suites of comfortable luxury, is the ideal place for us to conclude our ultimate adventure. Experience the colonial delights of four o'clock tea, succulent evening meals, cigars, and brandy. Take in the untouched beauty of the bush, and take home stories of your very own exciting safari.

Magnificent cuisine is freshly prepared to your satisfaction by personal butlers, with the menu itself as extensive as the African wilderness. Flickering hurricane lamps, fine mosquito netting and exceptional service, rivaled only by the accommodation, will ensure you never forget the African safari experience. All suites are beautifully appointed with only the finest furniture and imported linen. Spacious decks offer stunning salas and private plunge pools with views over the river bed and onto the plains beyond.

A variety of activities are included at our lodge. These include wildlife safaris, guided walks, health spa visits, bush picnics and champagne breakfasts. Video and slide presentations, traditional dancing, storytelling, special interest talks and even a canoe ride or a visit to the Sangoma or traditional healer can be arranged.Bon Voyage and safe travels! (All Meals Daily)

Fly to Johannesburg

We transfer to the airport this morning for our flight to Johannesburg. Often called Jo'burg, Johannesburg is the country's largest city and financial center with ultra-modern skyscrapers and a bustling way of life. It is the city of gold, as its claim to fame is the gold that was discovered close-by. There are many things to do in Johannesburg – relax, shop, sightsee and take in the local flavor. This evening we gather for a special Farewell Dinner to celebrate the conclusion of our amazing South Africa Adventure!

Our accommodation for this evening is The Peech, a truly boutique hotel. Set in the chic suburb of Melrose, a short stroll from the hustle and bustle of the city, it is ideally situated just ten minutes from shopping, across the James Gray Park and adjacent to the Wanderers International Cricket Stadium. The Peech was originally a private residence built in the 1950’s. The hotel opened for its first guests in 2004 following an extensive transformation to enhance the original personality of the property while providing all of the services required by modern travelers. It features luxury rooms, contemporary design and is an unexpected city oasis. The rooms are modern and edgy with an indigenous, African feel – offering free Wi-Fi, flat screen TV, iPod Sound Docks, Nespresso machines and generous bathrooms featuring “Rain dance” showers. It has a charming bistro, lush gardens, outdoor swimming pool and access to a nearby gym. (Breakfast / Farewell Dinner)

Johannesburg Tours / Departure

Get ready for an exciting day as we travel back in time to revisit South Africa’s history with a trip to the Mandela Family Museum, the Apartheid Museum and Hector Peterson Square in Soweto. Once the home of Nobel Peace Prize winner Nelson Mandela, the Mandela Family Museum is now comprised of memorabilia from world leaders and scholars, paintings, and photographs of the Mandela family. The Apartheid Museum reflects on segregation and the birth of the democratic country that arose out of this dark period. The memorial to 12-year-old Hector Peterson, slain for resisting police and the Apartheid government, reminds us of those brave and innocent souls lost in the fight for equality.

For anyone wanting to understand and experience what South Africa was really like, a visit to the Apartheid Museum is fundamental. The museum is a beacon of hope showing the world how South Africa is coming to terms with the past and working towards a future that all South African's can call their own. This museum illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid. Visitors walk through the 22 individual exhibition areas, which contain film footage, photographs, text panels and artifacts illustrating the events and human stories behind apartheid. The Apartheid Museum is the story of the triumph of the human spirit over adversity.

In the afternoon, visit the black suburb of Soweto (the name is an abbreviation of Southwestern Townships) for a look at all types of neighborhoods, ranging from shanty towns and worker's hostels to the modern home of Nelson Mandela. He lived there for only a short while upon his release from prison, and it’s where Winnie, his ex-wife, lived until her death in 2018. You can also see Mandela's earlier and more humble home, where he lived when he was arrested all those years ago.

Later, transfer to the airport for your home-bound flight. (Breakfast / Lunch)

Johannesburg Tours

Your day will be as per the main program today, with the Apartheid Museum and Soweto. While some of the group will depart for home today, instead you will settle back in for one more night at the Peech Hotel. (Breakfast / Lunch)

Adventures at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, to view the mighty Victoria Falls. At more than twice the size of Niagara Falls it’s no surprise that Victoria Falls are among the Seven Wonders of the World. Mosi-oa-Tunya – The Smoke that Thunders, derived from the towering column of spray when the Zambezi River runs high, is the name that Zimbabwe's local people have given to this awesome natural phenomenon. The name is probably more appropriate and descriptive than "Victoria", which has a far too calm and composed ring to it to do justice to the masses of thundering, swirling water of these spectacular Falls. But all Dr. David Livingstone probably thought of when he named the Falls after his Queen in 1855 was his royal duty. Five separate falls make up this incredible spectacle that plunges more than 328 feet into a sheer-sided chasm which separates Zimbabwe from Zambia. The awe-inspiring abyss is spanned by a 1905 Edwardian bridge which links the two countries, and many adventurers now use to bungee jump. The masses of water plunging down the Falls and into the gorge below originate from the mighty Zambezi River that meanders through more than 1,677 miles of African countryside.

We have wonderful accommodations at Elephant Camp, a luxury and intimate lodge under canvas built in a private concession bounded by the Masuwe River, and the Zambezi Gorges, some six miles from the town of Victoria Falls. Elephant Camp enjoys breathtaking views of the gorges which separate Zimbabwe and Zambia. The camp offers exclusive suite accommodation in 12 luxury tents. All suites are gorge facing and have private viewing deck and plunge pool, private lounge area, air-conditioning and fans, bath, inside and outside shower, mini bar and tea/coffee stations, 220V main electricity. All suites are mosquito proofed with mosquito nets. Elephant Camp is home to four orphaned elephants and all guests staying at the camp will have an opportunity to meet and interact with the Wild Horizons elephants.

Among the many activities we enjoy here, an afternoon sundowner cruise will be a highlight as you glide along the Zambezi River, watching hippos snort, elephants drink on the riverbank, monkeys jump from branch to branch, birds fly overhead or pose for a photograph on the branches, and much more. Enjoy your gin and tonic, cool beer, or drink of choice, and see a panoramic sunset as the sun dips below the horizon, painting the whole area in unbelievable colors of brilliant reds, yellows, purples and mauves. (All Meals Daily)

Included:

• All meals and drinks (excluding premium brands), complimentary mini bars in the rooms.
• Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust.
• Elephant Conservation experience.
• Cocktails and canapes at Batoka Gorge.
• Morning/afternoon game drives in the Zambezi National Park.
• One Breakfast, Brunch or Lunch at the Lookout Café per stay.
• Village tour.
• Guided tour of Victoria Falls.
• Victoria Falls canopy tour.

Fly to Johannesburg / Departure

Seize one last chance to photograph the incredible falls this morning before transferring to the airport for our return flight to Johannesburg. We say farewell at the airport, where you connect with your homebound overnight flight. (Breakfast)

EASY TO MODERATE WALKING

This Toto Tours Cultural and Wildlife Safari Expedition is accessible and suitable to all those with good health and who are able to walk 2-3 hours without much carrying. This tour is based on moderate city walking for several hours daily. Walks in Cape region and the National Parks will be more active with some gain and decrease in elevation and possible uneven surfaces. Participants will need to be able to climb in and out of high safari vehicles. We recommend you commence a daily walking and stair-climbing regimen well in advance of this tour to boost your endurance and enhance your ability to enjoy this adventure to the fullest extent.