Itinerary Details
Day 1: Arrive in Johannesburg
On arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, you'll be met by your representative and transferred to your hotel. Johannesburg is the largest and most populous city in South Africa and has a fascinating history shaped by the gold and diamond trade of the mineral-rich Witwatersrand.
The remainder of the day is at leisure and unescorted. An optional afternoon tour of Soweto and the Apartheid Museum may also be arranged, offering an introduction to South Africa's struggle for freedom. Alternatively, simply relax at your hotel. At 19h00, meet at reception for a tour briefing and the opportunity to meet your fellow travelers.
Approximately 35 kms travelled today.
Hotel: Protea Hotel by Marriott Balalaika Sandton (4 Star Rating)
The Balalaika is just 200 meters from Sandton City Shopping Centre, Sandton Convention Centre and Nelson Mandela square.
The hotel has 330-bedrooms spread over two sections - the Balalaika and the Crown Court - each room is air-conditioned and tastefully furnished in a classic, comfortable style with its own en suite bathroom featuring a separate shower. Both sections of the Hotel have a pool that is set in lush landscaped gardens, where guests can relax and unwind and enjoy a sundowner on either the terrace or at the pool bar.
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Day 2: Johannesburg to Mpumalanga & Mac-Mac FallsDepart Johannesburg after breakfast for the long drive to Mpumalanga Province, known as "Paradise Country." Descend into the lush subtropical Lowveld, travelling past the small town of Waterval Boven, nestled in the Drakensberg Mountains. Continue through spectacular scenery to the historic logging town of Sabie, once a gold mining town.
Visit the beautiful and unspoilt Mac-Mac Falls, a 65-meter waterfall on the Mac-Mac River, before arriving in Hazyview in the late afternoon, the safari hub of Kruger National Park.
Approximately 440 kms travelled today.
Hotel: Hippo Hollow Country Estate (4 Star Rating)
Hippo Hollow has one of the most spectacular settings in Mpumalanga, situated on the banks of the Sabie River, just 2km outside Hazyview and 35 minutes from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, within easy reach of the Kruger National Park and ideal for exploring the Panorama Route. Hippo Hollow has a timeless 'out of Africa' feel. Accommodation consists of 63 thatched en-suite chalets. You will leave Hippo Hollow feeling relaxed and refreshed having experienced the essence of Africa.
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Meal(s): Dinner, Breakfast
Day 3: The Panorama Route & Blyde River CanyonAfter an early breakfast, travel along the spectacular Panorama Route, taking in magnificent scenery including the 26-kilometer-long Blyde River Canyon, home to the Three Rondavels, Bourke's Luck Potholes and historic God's Window. From God's Window, enjoy breathtaking views from the edge of the escarpment towards Kruger National Park, weather permitting.
Return to Hazyview in the late afternoon, where the remainder of the day is at leisure.
Approximately 320 kms travelled today.
Hotel: Hippo Hollow Country Estate (4 Star Rating)
Hippo Hollow has one of the most spectacular settings in Mpumalanga, situated on the banks of the Sabie River, just 2km outside Hazyview and 35 minutes from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, within easy reach of the Kruger National Park and ideal for exploring the Panorama Route. Hippo Hollow has a timeless 'out of Africa' feel. Accommodation consists of 63 thatched en-suite chalets. You will leave Hippo Hollow feeling relaxed and refreshed having experienced the essence of Africa.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 4: On Safari in Kruger National ParkBegin with early morning coffee or tea before setting out on a thrilling open-vehicle game safari through Kruger National Park with a pre-packed breakfast. One of the world's great national parks, Kruger is home to an extraordinary array of wildlife. Search for the Big Five, including rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard and elephant, along with prolific birdlife and numerous other species.
The safari includes a presentation on the Anti-Poaching Dog Unit, Project Watchdog. Learn about the specially trained dogs used to track poachers and detect firearms, ammunition and wildlife products entering and leaving Kruger National Park. A portion of the tour price supports the care of these dogs and the vital conservation work they perform.
The afternoon is at leisure at your hotel. Wildlife enthusiasts may also choose an optional afternoon open-vehicle game safari, extending their time in Kruger.
Approximately 120 kms travelled today.
Hotel: Hippo Hollow Country Estate (4 Star Rating)
Hippo Hollow has one of the most spectacular settings in Mpumalanga, situated on the banks of the Sabie River, just 2km outside Hazyview and 35 minutes from Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, within easy reach of the Kruger National Park and ideal for exploring the Panorama Route. Hippo Hollow has a timeless 'out of Africa' feel. Accommodation consists of 63 thatched en-suite chalets. You will leave Hippo Hollow feeling relaxed and refreshed having experienced the essence of Africa.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 5: Mpumalanga to eSwatiniTravel to eSwatini, an independent kingdom within the borders of South Africa, known for its beautiful scenery, traditional crafts and colorful indigenous culture. Enjoy an interactive cultural experience, including lunch, introducing you to the people of eSwatini and their traditions.
Visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory, where talented glassblowers create an array of beautiful pieces using recycled glass. Continue to the scenic Ezulwini Valley and enjoy dinner at your hotel this evening.
Approximately 310 kms travelled today.
Hotel: The Royal Villas Swaziland (5 Star Rating)
The Royal Villas Swaziland offers award winning accommodation, conference facilities and fine cuisine all year round. Set in a beautiful secure estate with stunning views of the Royal Mdzimba Mountains, the gold and browns of the African savannah are echoed throughout the Villas with each room designed to make the most of the African sunlight and views. Located just 10 minutes from the capital Mbabane, the Villas are well positioned close to a range of attractions and activities.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
Day 6: eSwatini to ZululandAfter breakfast, visit the Swazi Candle Factory, where you can watch skilled wax artists create beautifully crafted candles. Continue south through eSwatini before re-entering South Africa and embarking on the long drive into Zululand, passing traditional round huts and expansive landscapes.
An optional afternoon open-vehicle game safari in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park may also be arranged. Africa's oldest game reserve supports an immense diversity of wildlife and is particularly renowned for its successful conservation of black and white rhino.
Approximately 360 kms travelled today.
Hotel: Anew Hotel Hluhluwe and Safaris (3 Star Rating)
Set in the magnificent Elephant Coast, near South Africa's oldest Game Reserve, the 3-star Anew Hotel Hluhluwe and Safaris, is the ultimate South African holiday Destination.
The Hotel offers a wide variety of guest rooms and a 5-star self-catering safari lodge for a true bush experience. The Hotel also offers packages for corporate and government guests with a wide range of intimate conferencing venues in the Zululand area. The Idyllic African Centrepiece is nestled between the Hluhluwe Game Reserve -- home to the Big Five, and the Greater St. Lucia Wetland Park, a world heritage site. Here you will experience the wild nature of Africa, rejoice in the luxury and revel in the friendly warmth of one of Africa's most welcoming hotels.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 7: Zululand to Tsitsikamma via GqeberhaAfter an early breakfast, depart for Durban, travelling past traditional Zulu kraals, eucalyptus plantations and sugar cane fields. Arrive at Durban (Umhlanga) Airport for the short flight to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). This flight is not included in the tour price and will be arranged separately by your Goway Destination Specialist. On arrival, you'll be met by a representative and, once everyone has arrived, continue west along the Garden Route, following the Indian Ocean coastline with soaring mountain ranges and indigenous forests inland.
This evening, enjoy an authentic dinner in Storms River Village, tucked away in the lush Tsitsikamma forest.
Approximately 430 kms travelled today.
Hotel: Tsitsikamma Village Inn (3 Star Rating)
The magical Tsitsikamma Village Inn, is a privately owned and managed hotel, originally established in 1946. Close to the Tsitsikamma National Park at Storms River Mouth, the hotel consists of 49 free-standing rooms, village-style, where each cottage is individually decorated and has its own garden matching the specific colonial building style found in the Garden Route.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 8: Tsitsikamma National Park to KnysnaAfter breakfast, visit spectacular Tsitsikamma National Park and Storms River Mouth, weather permitting. The park encompasses 80 km of rocky coastline, dramatic seascapes, secluded valleys, mountain fynbos and temperate forests, with deep river gorges leading to the sea.
Continue to Mungo, a family-owned textile mill in Plettenberg Bay producing fine-quality textiles using antique looms alongside modern weaving technology. Optional Travel with Purpose visits to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary and Birds of Eden Sanctuary may also be arranged while in the Plettenberg Bay area.
Continue to Knysna, known as the oyster box of South Africa and nestled on the banks of a beautiful lagoon in the heart of the Garden Route. Visit the famous Eastern Head for spectacular views of the Knysna Heads, weather permitting, before enjoying dinner at Drydock Restaurant.
Approximately 100 kms travelled today.
Hotel: aha Rex Hotel (The) (5 Star Rating)
One of Knysna's most elegant and sophisticated accommodation offerings, The Rex Hotel promises its guests superior service and exceptional comfort. The impeccably appointed Rex Hotel offers travellers a gateway to world-class restaurants, blossoming forests and the shores of the serene lagoon. The Rex Hotel offers its guests free onsite parking, free bicycle hire and 24 hours security. The hotel is centrally located and within walking distance to all major banks, shopping malls as well as the Waterfront.
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Meal(s): Dinner, Breakfast
Day 9: Exploring Oudtshoorn, Ostriches & Cango CavesAfter breakfast, visit the Outeniqua Transport Museum in George, showcasing the Garden Route's railway history through a fascinating collection of vintage vehicles, locomotives and other transport-related artifacts.
Travel through the Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, known as the "ostrich capital" and centre of the world's ostrich farming industry. En route, stop at Dolphin Point in Wilderness for spectacular views.
In Oudtshoorn, enjoy a fun-filled interactive ostrich tractor farm tour followed by a memorable lunch featuring local specialties in a 1902 Victorian Manor House on a family-owned and managed ostrich farm. Afterwards, explore the spectacular limestone caverns of the Cango Caves, one of the world's great natural wonders, sculpted by nature through the ages. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon with time to relax before dinner at your leisure.
Approximately 210 kms travelled today.
Hotel: Hlangana Lodge (4 Star Rating)
Located on the quiet part of the Golden Mile, enroute to the Cango Caves and walking distance to the best restaurants in town, this first class guest house is set on more than a hectare of exotic gardens. Enjoy the great South African outdoors in the landscaped gardens or relax in a deck chair next to the salt water swimming pool.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Lunch
Day 10: Oudtshoorn to HermanusAn optional Travel with Purpose Early Morning Meerkat Safari may be arranged, subject to availability and weather conditions. Watch these fascinating wild, habituated meerkats emerge from their burrows to soak up the morning sun before beginning their daily activities. A portion of the activity price supports the Buffelsdrift Foundation's wildlife conservation, habitat conservation and local community initiatives.
After breakfast, continue through the Little Karoo to Barrydale, where you'll have the opportunity to visit a local farm school, subject to the school being open. Spend time with the children and teachers and learn more about life in this rural community. A portion of the tour price supports the Barrydale Farm School Development Fund and local education for underprivileged children.
Continue via Tradouw Pass to Swellendam and onward to the seaside resort of Hermanus, known as the heart of the whale route and renowned for outstanding land-based whale watching from August to November.
Approximately 365 kms travelled today.
Hotel: Auberge Burgundy (3 Star Rating)
The Auberge Burgundy, which is set above the picturesque Old Harbour, in the historic heart of Hermanus (the hub of the famous Whale Route) is a charming Provencal style guesthouse with fragrant courtyards and stone terraces.
The Auberge Burgundy offers comfortable accommodation and friendly service and is surrounded by restaurants, the craft market, boutiques, art galleries and quaint shopping malls. It has the salt sea air of one of the world's most magnificent eco- destinations in the world - the cool blue sea of Walker Bay is within 50 m of the front door.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 11: Hermanus to Stellenbosch & Cape TownAfter a leisurely breakfast, depart Hermanus and continue to Somerset West via the spectacular scenic coastal road before travelling onward to Stellenbosch in the beautiful Cape Winelands. Enjoy free time to explore the town's oak-shaded streets, cafés, boutiques and art galleries before continuing to Cape Town.
Approximately 160 kms travelled today.
Hotel: President Hotel (4 Star Rating)
President Hotel is situated in the heart of scenic Bantry Bay, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and majestic Lions Head. The hotel is decorated in a nautical theme, evident in the imposing oil seascapes that adorn the walls.
Enjoy a mix of Creole, Indian and French Cuisine at The Islands Restaurant or enjoy a sundowner at The Senate, a stylish laid back bar and lounge. The palm fringed pool deck, with stunning views is a great place to unwind.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 12: Exploring Cape TownEnjoy a full day at leisure in Cape Town. A selection of optional experiences may be arranged, from Table Mountain and Kirstenbosch Gardens or an exploration of Cape Town's anti-apartheid history to the Cape Winelands or a marine safari.
This evening, meet a local South African family and visit their home for an included home-hosted dinner. Enjoy a typical three-course South African meal in a relaxed setting, accompanied by conversation and insights into everyday life in South Africa.
Approximately 20 kms travelled today.
Hotel: President Hotel (4 Star Rating)
President Hotel is situated in the heart of scenic Bantry Bay, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and majestic Lions Head. The hotel is decorated in a nautical theme, evident in the imposing oil seascapes that adorn the walls.
Enjoy a mix of Creole, Indian and French Cuisine at The Islands Restaurant or enjoy a sundowner at The Senate, a stylish laid back bar and lounge. The palm fringed pool deck, with stunning views is a great place to unwind.
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Meal(s): Breakfast, Dinner
Day 13: Excursion to the Cape PeninsulaEnjoy a full-day tour of the Cape Peninsula, taking in some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the world. Travel through Sea Point and the seaside village of Hout Bay before continuing to Cape Point, where tradition holds that the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet.
Return to Cape Town via Simon's Town, where you'll visit the penguin colony at Boulders Beach, with entrance payable separately, before continuing through the fishing village of Fish Hoek.
Approximately 200 kms travelled today.
Hotel: President Hotel (4 Star Rating)
President Hotel is situated in the heart of scenic Bantry Bay, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and majestic Lions Head. The hotel is decorated in a nautical theme, evident in the imposing oil seascapes that adorn the walls.
Enjoy a mix of Creole, Indian and French Cuisine at The Islands Restaurant or enjoy a sundowner at The Senate, a stylish laid back bar and lounge. The palm fringed pool deck, with stunning views is a great place to unwind.
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Meal(s): Breakfast
Day 14: Depart from Cape TownEnjoy some last-minute shopping or independent sightseeing. Perhaps browse the shops and boutiques of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront before your transfer to the airport, harbor or railway station for your onward journey.
Meal(s): Breakfast
