African Adventure 22 Jan 2016 6 Feb 2016 Friday 22 Jan 2016 LH 459 SFO / MUC 20h50 / 17h10 LH 574 MUC / CPT 22h20 / 10h45 +1 VIP Meet & Greet: Cape Town International Airport ITINERARY OVERVIEW Welcome to Cape Town! On arrival you will be met by your guide who will assist you and your luggage to the awaiting luxury coach. From the Airport you will start your first excursion. City & Table Mountain Tour: Half Day with Lunch Explore the city of Cape Town, known affectionately as the Mother City. Your tour will take in the Houses of Parliament, the Castle (built between 1666 and 1679, this is South Africa s oldest building), the lively Greenmarket Square with its daily market, the Company Gardens and of course Table Mountain, which will give you spectacular views over the city and the Peninsula. (the cable car fee is included but it is weather dependent). As you come back down from the mountain, make a stop at Bo-Kaap, home to the Cape Malay community, with its cobbled streets and brightly coloured houses. From here you have the choice of being dropped off at the Waterfront to experience this vibrant location at your own pace, with its many shops, restaurants and pubs. Lunch will be enjoyed at one of the local restaurants in the Waterfront. Afterwards, make your way to the hotel where you will check in and spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Dinner tonight will be enjoyed at the Hotel. Please note: The cableway is usually closed for annual maintenance from the last week of July to Mid August. Includes Table Mountain Tickets Welcome to the V&A Waterfront Situated between Robben Island and Table Mountain in the heart of Cape Town's working harbour, the V&A Waterfront has
become one of South Africa's most visited destinations. Since 1988, the harbour is continually undergoing changes, with the redevelopment of land and the restoration of buildings surrounding the original Victoria & Alfred Basins, creating a mix of shopping and entertainment venues, intermingled with imaginative office locations, world-class hotels and luxury apartments in the residential marina. Aside from the myriad of shops, restaurants and bars, there is a more cultural side to the Waterfront, focused around the historic Clock Tower, which was the original Port Captain's Office in 1882 and part of a collection of well preserved turn of the century buildings. It is near here that the ferries depart for Robben Island (from the Nelson Mandela Gateway), while the Two Oceans Aquarium is a short walk from here. With ferries and boats continuously on the go, Cape Fur Seals playing in the harbour water, and a mix of both locals and international visitors, the Waterfront is a wonderful place to soak up some typical Cape Town vibe. Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town Accommodation 4 nights in Standard Room/s Meal basis Bed & Breakfast Arrival 22 Jan 2016 Departure 26 Jan 2016 The Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town is a large city hotel ideally located opposite the entrance to the V & A Waterfront in the heart of Cape Town. Towering over many of the buildings in the area the Southern Sun Waterfront offers spectacular views of Table Mountain and is a central location from which to explore the highlights of Cape Town. The hotel offers 546 rooms ranging from double, queen and kings to suites and wheelchair access rooms. The hotel has a modern feel and rooms are well appointed. Rooms include 24 hour in-room dining, satellite television, tea and coffee facilities, air-conditioning and WiFi (prepaid vouchers). Hotel guest areas include the Breakfast Room and Yizani Restaurant (18:30-22:30), the main lounge spills out to the terrace and outdoor pool area. There is also a fully equipped fitness center. The central location of the hotel allows guest to explore both sides of Table Mountain. With Kirstenbosch Gardens, the Constantia Winelands and Hout Bay on one side to Camps Bay, Clifton and the trendy city streets on the other. The V & A Waterfront is walking distance away. Includes: Breakfast Saturday 23 Jan 2016 Winelands Tour: Private Full Day including Lunch
This delightful drive winds its way to the heart of the Cape Winelands, through superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads. Head off to the wine country via the N2 to the heart of South Africa's wine industry, Stellenbosch, boasting great beauty and culture that is steeped in South African history. Walk down the canal-lined avenues, in the shade of giant oak trees and beautifully preserved historic buildings. With the sheer vastness of wine estates on offer, we are truly spoilt for choice when we enjoy our first wine tasting of the day. Travel over the Helshoogte Pass to the town of Franschhoek, historically dating back to the 17th century when the French Huguenots arrived. Billed as the Gourmet Capital of South Africa, this charming town, in a most picturesque valley, retains a French Huguenot style. We enjoy a wine tasting before taking time to enjoy the fabled culinary skills of the Franschhoek chefs at one of the many award winning restaurants. Lunch is included today at one of the local Estates. Onward to Paarl, one of the Cape s first farming districts. The town is set at the foot of the cluster of remarkable granite domes from which it takes its name. Our last stop for the day is at a wine estate on the Paarl wine route. We return to the bustle of city life after an enthralling day in the countryside, arriving back at the hotels at approximately 17:30. Note: Alternative estates may be visited over weekends and public holidays. The suggested routing is a guide-line only and can be tailor-made according to clients pickup and drop-off. Dinner tonight is enjoyed at one of the local restaurants Sunday 24 Jan 2016 Cape Point & Peninsula Tour: Private Full Day with Lunch Today you embark on a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula. Take in the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, before crossing over to Hout Bay, where you may choose to join an optional boat cruise to Seal Island. From here you drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve via Chapman s Peak, one of the world s most breath-taking coastal drives, where you will board a funicular to get to the top of the Peninsula to witness the symbolic meeting of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans and enjoy spectacular views over False Bay. After lunch (which is included), continue to Simonstown, the naval base, and visit the African Penguin breeding colony at Boulders Beach. Then stop at the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Gardens before arriving at your hotel for overnight Dinner tonight is enjoyed at the Hotel Monday 25 Jan 2016 Entrance Fee: Robben Island Excursion
This intriguing excursion begins at the Clock Tower, also known as the Nelson Mandela Gateway, in the V&A Waterfront, where you need to gather at least a half an hour before the ferry is scheduled to depart for Robben Island. The Island was a training and defence station in World War 2, and has also served as a place of banishment, isolation and imprisonment, which became world famous as the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years. Today it is a World Heritage Site and museum which acts as a focal point of South African heritage. It runs educational programmes for schools and facilitates tourism development - a poignant reminder of the price paid for freedom. As your ferry arrives at the Island, you are joined by a local guide, someone who spent time there during the Apartheid years and is thus able to give a personal and often moving account of the experience. You will also see the cell where Nelson Mandela spent a large part of his life. After a most interesting time of gleaning 'behind the scenes' history, the ferry takes you back to the V&A Waterfront. Any amendments made to Robben Island ticket bookings prior to the tour are subject to a R50.00 administration fee. A Farewell Dinner tonight is enjoyed at Gold restaurant Tuesday 26 Jan 2016 After an early check out at the Hotel you will be collected by your Guide and Coach. Transfer towards Cape Town Airport for your early flight. Flight: CPT / JNB not included (early flight) Arrive in JNB where your guide will assist you with your luggage to your awaiting coach. We continue on our Soweto Tour. Soweto Tour: Private Half Day including Lunch Soweto is a sprawling cluster of townships on the south western flank of Johannesburg. It was created in the 1930s by the apartheid government, as a designated residential area for black people. You will catch a glimpse of the lives of Soweto s estimated 4 million residents and learn more of its rich political history as the centre of political campaigns aimed at the overthrow of the apartheid state. Some of the highlights of this tour are the footbridge of the Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, the Hector Pieterson Museum as well as Nelson Mandela's humble little house, which is now the Mandela Family Museum. Also in this region, are the homes of Archbishop Desmond Tutu' and Walter Sisulu. Feel the true vibe of the township as you drive past a taxi rank and a squatter camp (informal settlement) and also make a stop at a typical Shebeen (local restaurant & bar). Enjoy Lunch at Sakhumzi s before visiting the Apartheid Museum
Apartheid Museum: Private Half Day Dinner will be included at the Hotel tonight. Welcome to Johannesburg... Johannesburg stems from gold and diamond mining, dating back to the 1800 s, and the city s local name, Egoli, means The City of Gold. Today Johannesburg is the powerhouse of Africa and home to the continents busiest airport. Johannesburg is a wealthy and fast-paced city, one of the largest metropolitan areas in the world, earning its reputation as the 'New York of Africa', while also being considered as one of the largest man-made forests in the world. The political history of the region is highly prevalent in the Apartheid, Hector Pieterson and Constitution Hill Museums, with a tour of Soweto, wrapping up this emotional experience. A stay in Johannesburg would be incomplete without a visit to Gold Reef City a theme park created around a 19 th century gold mine, the De Wildt cheetah rehabilitation centre and the award winning Maropeng cradle of humankind, a world heritage site. Protea Hotel Balalaika Accommodation 3 nights in Standard Room/s Meal basis Bed & Breakfast Arrival 26 Jan 2016 Departure 29 Jan 2016 An easy, large, comfortable hotel the Protea Hotel Balalaika is located in the heart of commercial hub of Sandton in northern Johannesburg. The hotel is surrounded by a landscaped garden and situated opposite the Johannesburg Stock Exchange and within walking distance of the Sandton City Complex and Nelson Mandela Square. Divided into two, the Balalaika and the Crown Court, there are 330 rooms offering various room categories. Rooms have soft neutral tones and classic comfortable furnishings. They are en-suite with separate shower and bath, air-conditioning and heating, a selection of satellite channels, tea and coffee facilities, a work station with modem points and minibars (on request). The hotel complex enjoys a selection of restaurants and bars; the traditional English country Lord s Cigar Bar, the Colony Restaurant and Terrace, the Oval Coffee Shop, the Crown Court Lounge and Bar, the Balalaika Terrace and the Bull Run Restaurant famed for excellent cuts of South African beef. Both sections of the hotel have lush gardens and a swimming pool. There is a small gym and WiFi is available throughout (prepaid vouchers). Sandton offers numerous restaurant, bar and entertainment options and the interesting Apartheid Museum is a short drive away. Includes: Breakfast Value Adds: Complimentary Dinky Wine in room
Wednesday 27 Jan 2016 This morning after breakfast we start our tour with Pretoria. Pretoria City Tour: Half Day Extras included: E-Toll Fees We also make our way to Franciscan Seminary, The Archbishop Slattery, etc (no entrance included and no tours booked) Afterwards we return to the hotel and enjoy dinner at the Hotel. Dinner will be included at the Hotel tonight. Thursday 28 Jan 2016 Enjoy a leisure breakfast before departing to the Voortrekker Monument which will be our 1 st stop this morning. From here we make our way to Gold Reef City for a Mine visit. Rich beginnings We invite you to join Veli, a modern day school boy as he takes the journey of a life time in the company of Joe, a well weathered prospector from the late 1800's. This fascinating introductory movie tells the story about the earliest days of Jozi and the discovery of gold. Underground Mine tour Descend into the depths of the earth and discover the riches of our history. Experience the heart stopping feeling of travelling deep below the surface. Feel the cold air and touch the rough rock that holds the wealth of a nation. Gold Panning Search for the elusive specs of gold that hold the promise of wealth the way it used to be done. Pan the mud in freezing cold water by hand and experience the euphoria of finding a shiny spec among the dirt. Gold Pour Liquid gold-there's nothing quite like the magnificent glow that emanates from the molten liquid. This is an experience of the heart, soul and mind that you will never forget.
Tour Times Gold Reef City Theme Park is open from 09h30-17h00 from Wednesday - Sunday and all public Holidays (except Christmas Day.) During Gauteng school holidays the park is open Monday - Sunday. All scheduled tours are conducted in English and start at the following times: 09h00, 10h00, 11h00, 14h00, 15h00. No tours will start before 09h00 or after 15h00. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours. Afterwards, we will drive to Rosebank Market and have a quick stop in Sandton before making our way back to the Hotel. Freshen up before we depart for our farewell dinner at one of the local restaurants. Friday 29 Jan 2016 After breakfast this morning your guide will assist with your check out at the hotel and then transfer to Johannesburg Airport. SA 040 JNB / VFA 10h50 / 12h35 Arrive in VFA Airport where you will be met and transferred to your Hotel where you will check in and spend some time at leisure. Sunset Cruise: Scheduled 2 Hours This afternoon you are transferred to the jetty, where you board a comfortable vessel with plenty of seating, open sides and a canopied roof. From here you cruise along towards Palm lsland and Kandahar lsland to enjoy a picturesque African sunset on the Zambezi River. This cruise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the River, with the opportunity to see a variety of game; including hippo, crocodile, elephant and many different bird species. Includes: Finger snacks, a selection of local brand drinks and transfers from hotels in Victoria Falls town Extras included: River Usage Fee Welcome to Victoria Falls The iconic town of Victoria Falls, which is affectionately known as "Vic Falls", is set on the southern bank of the Zambezi River, at the western end of the mighty Victoria Falls. Zimbabwe's prime tourist destination and a magnet for visitors from around the world Vic Falls has a rich and romantic history. Discovered in 1855 by explorer and missionary David Livingstone, the railway from Cape Town arrived in 1904 and the landmark 198 metre long Victoria Falls Bridge, spanning the immense Zambezi River gorge and linking Zimbabwe with Zambia, was built in 1905. One of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the Victoria Falls is one of Africa's greatest geographical features. At 1700 metres wide and over 100 metres in height visitors cannot fail to be inspired and amazed by the sheer size, power and beauty of the thundering curtain of water which can be gazed upon from 16 view points along a network of trails through the surrounding rainforest. Reaching their zenith in April/May, the Falls are at their most powerful and impressive between the months of February and July. At high water the dense plume of spray can rise up to 500 metres into the air and is visible from as much as 20 kilometres away, justifying why the falls are still commonly referred to by their local name of Mosi-oa-Tunya - "the smoke that thunders". Even during the low water months of October and November when the Falls become dry for much of their length the view from the Zimbabwe side won't disappoint. With its welcoming small town atmosphere Vic Falls is home to a seemingly endless number of activities - there is literally
something for everyone. The world's wildest white water rafting, canoeing, helicopter flips, elephant back safaris, canopy tours and adventure slides, river cruises, golf and bungee jumping. An impressive array of arts and crafts is showcased by talented local artists in the open air curio market as well as at a number of gallery's and shops throughout town. The Kingdom at Victoria Falls Accommodation 2 nights in Standard Room/s Meal basis Bed & Breakfast Arrival 29 Jan 2016 Departure 31 Jan 2016 The Kingdom at Victoria Falls is located in the Victoria Falls National Park, the closest hotel, and within walking distance, of the magnificent Victoria Falls. Bold, distinctive architecture draws on the Great Zimbabwe Monument for inspiration, with large thatched domes, sturdy pillars and bridges spanning the many water features within this large hotel. Catering for families and groups, the 294 rooms and suites, built around a man-made lake, are situated in separate two and three storey units. Rooms are decorated in deep browns and beiges with simple natural wood furnishings lending a distinct African feel. All rooms feature en-suite bathrooms with a bath and shower or bath/shower combination, air-conditioning, heater, selection of satellite channels, hairdryers and tea and coffee facilities. Some rooms have small balconies with lake views while others look out onto the bush. With the conveniences of a modern hotel The Kingdom offers fast food dining options in The Great Enclosure, a restaurant, four bars, a Spa, hair salon, casino, swimming pool and toddlers pool. The Kingdom and surrounding area offers numerous exciting activities from sundowner cruises, elephant back safaris, helicopter flights and white water rafting to game drives and guided tours of Victoria Falls. Includes: Breakfast and 15% VAT. Dinner will be included at the Hotel tonight. Saturday 30 Jan 2016 Tour of the Falls: Private 2 Hours The Victoria Falls reaches its zenith in about May each year. It is a truly awe-inspiring experience the sight, the sound, the smell and the humbling feeling that here indeed, is Natures Supreme Masterpiece. No photograph can begin to depict the reality and nothing prepares you for your first sight. This tour is conducted in the morning and afternoon and is 2 hours in duration. You will be accompanied through the Rainforest by a qualified Guide, who gives a brief history of the Falls and the surrounding flora, fauna, bird and wildlife. Raincoats and camera protective bags are provided when needed.
Includes: Transfers from hotels in Victoria Falls town Extras included: VFA Entrance fee Boma Dinner: at The Boma-Place of Eating Sunday 31 Jan 2016 Private Transfer Hotel to Chobe Game Lodge Welcome to Botswana Botswana is a land-locked country, bordered by Zambia and Zimbabwe to the northeast, Namibia to the north and west, and South Africa to the south and east. Botswana has placed strong emphasis on its deliberate high price low impact policy in order to successfully preserve its fragile eco-systems and rich wildlife. This makes the country a highly sought after, truly African wildlife experience, living up to its status as the Gem of Africa. There are an incredible variety of great National Parks to visit, the most popular being the Moremi Wildlife Reserve and the Okavango Delta, which is the worlds largest inland delta, a seasonal wetland of channels, palm lined islands and wide grassy floodplains, visible from outer space. The Chobe National Park is to the north of the country and is home to the largest elephant herds in the world. This Park boasts four distinctly different eco systems: Serondela with its lush plains and dense forests in the Chobe River area to the northeast, the Savute Marsh in the west and the Linyanti Swamps in the northwest, with the hot, dry hinterland in between. The Makgadikgadi Pans National Park is situated between Maun and Nata, in northern Botswana. These great thirstlands cover some 4,900 square kilometres of lifeless land which transforms when the rains come in mid-november. They retain their water into April or May, attracting a spectacular array of water birds and stimulating dramatic migrations of wildebeest and zebra. The Central Kalahari Game Reserve is situated in the centre of Botswana. This reserve is characterised by vast open plains, saltpans, ancient riverbeds and the world renowned Deception Valley. The Basarwa or San Bushmen have been resident in this region for thousands of years, remarkably surviving in a harsh climate of sporadic rainfall, varying from 170 to 700 ml per annum. Chobe Game Lodge Accommodation Meal basis 3 nights in Standard Room/s Fully Inclusive Arrival 31 Jan 2016 Departure 03 Feb 2016 An icon in the Chobe area, Chobe Game Lodge is the only safari lodge to be situated within the Chobe National Park. A hard to beat location, directly on the game rich Chobe River, Chobe Game Lodge has unhindered views of the river and beyond, to the Caprivi floodplains of Namibia. The 47 room hotel style lodge retains a nostalgic ambience and is set in beautifully mature gardens. All rooms are river facing and tastefully decorated, air conditioned with overhead fans, have en-suite bathrooms, a private terrace and complimentary minibar. There are four river view suites, each with their own plunge pool and a separate lounge. Rooms extend on either side of the main lodge and are linked by bricked foot paths. Exuding a Moroccan feel using Bedouin-style fabrics and lanterns especially in the lounge areas, the main lodge is spacious, comfortable and cool. There are varied dining options which include the open walled buffet area, a boma experience on the river or lunch served on the boardwalk. The Thwene Bar is a stylish cigar bar with an outside terrace and river views, there is a reference library and a large swimming pool with a terrace. Chobe Game Lodge has a raised boardwalk running a large length of the river with dining and chill out spots at regular intervals. It is a wonderful viewpoint to watch elephants, hippos, crocodiles and lion coming down to drink.
Being the sole concessionary in Chobe National Park, there is nothing to beat being in the park an hour before everyone else or being able to return after dark. Chobe Game Lodge includes unlimited land and water based game viewing activities which commence in the morning, mid-morning, mid-afternoon and late afternoon. Includes: All meals, local brand drinks, complimentary mini bar, 2 scheduled safari activities daily, National Park fees, return Kasane Airport transfers to scheduled/charter flights and laundry. Please note: A non-negotiable cancellation penalty of 20% comes into immediate effect on confirmation of this property. Wednesday 03 Feb 2016 This morning you will be transferred to Kasane Airport where you will be dropped off. Board your small aircraft and fly to Moremi Airstrip where you will be welcomed and collected by the Lodge. Welcome to the Okavango Delta The Okavango Delta is the best known and most visited tourist attraction in Botswana. The Okavango Delta is situated deep within the Kalahari Basin, and is often referred to as the jewel of the Kalahari. Shaped like a fan, the Delta is fed by the Okavango River, the third largest in southern Africa. It has been steadily developed over the millennia by millions of tonnes of sand carried down the river from Angola. The Delta has no outlet to the sea and as a result its water run into the Kalahari Desert. Each year, during and shortly after the rainy season, the Delta irrigates about 15,000sq km of desert. However, the high temperatures of the Kalahari causes much of this excess water to quickly evaporate. Floodplains and islands disappear under the rising water and then reappear in an ever-changing landscape at the end of each wet season. Access to the Delta is via Maun, with its frequent flights to Gaborone and Johannesburg. There are many light aircraft operators to fly you directly to your bush camps from Maun. One of the most popular activities in the Delta, is to go on an enchanting mokoro ride, where a qualified guide silently poles you through the reed-lined waterways. Moremi Crossing Accommodation 2 nights in Tent/s Meal basis Fully Inclusive Arrival 03 Feb 2016 Departure 05 Feb 2016 An affordable tented camp, Moremi Crossing is located on the southern part of Chief s Island in the heart of the Okavango Delta. Situated on a small palm and tree fringed island called Ntswi, Moremi Crossing is surrounded by far reaching vistas of the game-rich seasonal Moremi floodplains and overlooks Chief s Island. Accommodation consists of 16 spacious and airy vintage style tents (including a family and honeymoon tent) on raised decks each with a private wooden deck and magical views. Tent interiors are simple with splashes of colour and en-suite facilities include a basin, shower and toilet. The camp has 24 hour solar powered electricity and lighting and features eco-friendly waste disposal technology. The central half-moon shaped mess area is built on different levels to give you a feeling of space. The large open-plan deck has spectacular views, the dining room, bar and lounge are covered by a thatch roof that hugs the riverine tree line, there are various small private lounges and a shaded deck that leads to the secluded swimming pool. This permanent water camp offers half or full day mokoro excursions, powerboat excursions, sunset cruises and bush walks (guide availability dependent). Includes: All meals, snacks, tea/coffee, local brand drinks, 2 scheduled safari activities daily, park fees and laundry.
Friday 05 Feb 2016 This morning you will be transferred to Moremi Airstrip where you board the small plane and hop over to Maun Airport. Board your flight to Johannesburg (flight not included) SA8301 MUB / JNB 14h00 / 15h40 LH9545 JNB / FRA 20h25 / 06h15 LH 454 FRA / SFO 10h00 / 12h25 PACKAGE COSTS : Please be advised that Single occupancy in Botswana is only possible at Chobe National Park and NOT available for Moremi Crossing. There are only 15 rooms in this property, and sharing is mandatory. Included: 4 nights Cape Town: SS Waterfront Hotel std rooms, B&B 3 nights Johannesburg: PH Balalaika Hotel, std rooms, B&B 2 nights Victoria Falls: Kingdom Hotel, std rooms, B&B 3 nights Botswana at: Chobe Game Lodge, std rooms, fully inclusive 2 nights Botswana at: Moremi Crossing, tents, fully inclusive - Okawango Delta Meet and Greet in Cape Town Cape Town City Tour entrances includes SA Museum, The Castle, Table Mountain Tickets (weather dependant) Entrances to Winelands (2 wine tastings + 1 cellar tour wine estates to be finalized) Robben Island Tour (Ticket is weather dependant) Half Day Pretoria Visit including stops at Franciscan Seminary and a visit with Pretoria s Franciscan Archbishop William Slattery, a friend of Fr. Mario Entrance to Voortrekker Monument, Gold Reef City Mine Tour Entrances to Soweto Tour including Hector Peterson, Nelson Mandela House, Apartheid Museum Transfer VFA Airport to Hotel Sunset Cruise Tour of the Falls Transfer to Chobe Game Lodge Flight Kasani Airport to Moremi Airstrip Flight Moremi Airstrip to Maun Airport 9 Lunches (as indicated on itinerary) 14 Dinners (as indicated on itinerary) Airport Porterage Hotel Porterage Services of an Qualified English Speaking Guide Services of a Qualified English Speaking Driver Excluded: Any Flights for guests Arriving into the Country or departing the Country (flights not mentioned on itinerary) Visa Fees Travel Insurance Any additional meals, entrances, tours or beverages not stipulated on itinerary Drinks where none specified Laundry, shop purchases or Any items of personal nature Visa for Zimbabwe - $30 VISAS: (SOUTH AFRICA & BOTSWANA - NOT REQUIRED FOR US CITIZENS ZIMBABWE - VISAS ISSUED UPON ARRIVAL US $30.00 PER PERSON - SINGLE ENTRY.)