ENCHANTING SOUTH AFRICA

ENCHANTING SOUTH AFRICA

January 26 – February 07, 2025

Overview:

Brief Itinerary:

Day 1 (Sun Jan 26, 2025) : Arrive in Cape Town.

Day 2 (Mon Jan 27, 2025) : Explore Cape Town.

Day 3 (Tue Jan 28, 2025) : Private Full Day Cape Point & Peninsula Tour.

Day 4 (Wed Jan 29, 2025) : Cape West Coast.

Day 5 (Thu Jan 30, 2025) : Explore Cape West Coast.

Day 6 (Fri Jan 31, 2025) : Cape Winelands.

Day 7 (Sat Feb 1, 2025) : Day At Leisure in Franschhoek.

Day 8 (Sun Feb 2, 2025) : Greater Kruger National Park.

Day 9 (Mon Feb 3, 2025) : On Safari In The Timbavati.

Day 10 (Tue Feb 4, 2025) : Southern Sabi Sands.

Days 11 – 12 (Wed Feb 5, 2025 – Thu Feb 6, 2025) : Southern Sabi Sands On Safari.

Day 13 (Fri Feb 7, 2025) : Depart Home.

Interested in more information? Please contact Africa Easy by calling 1-800-617-2319 or (206) 284-2319. Click here to e-mail the Africa Easy Team.

ENCHANTING SOUTH AFRICA

January 26 – February 07, 2025

Day-by-day Itinerary:

Day 1 | Arrive in Cape Town

Arrive in Cape Town meet pick service and be transferred to the Victoria and Alfred Hotel. There you will check in for three nights with breakfast included.

Cape Town

Scenically beautiful, Cape Town is a compelling mix of trendy modern and old-world elegance. Glamorous hotels, world-class dining and stunning vistas merge seamlessly with dynamic student suburbs and vibrant nightlife. Malay and African heritage is evident in the cuisine, traditions and entertainment while the architecture reveals a strong Dutch, German and English flavour and style. Contemporary art is proudly displayed in a variety of galleries and modern boutique hotels, and wine bars and brandy tasting lounges will appeal to the fashionable set. For the well-heeled the finest in opera, ballet, drama and music can be appreciated in style. A short boat cruise to Robben Island, just over seven s from Cape Town harbour, you can experience a sense of hopelessness inside the prison cell where South Africa’s most beloved legend, Nelson Mandela spent 27 years hard labour. It is difficult to imagine how anyone could rise above the horror of incarceration to become arguably the most iconic and compassionate leader of our era. An exciting trip up Table Mountain in a cable car provides panoramic views over the “Mother City” and other attractions include the Cultural History Museum, the Castle of Good Hope and the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Greenmarket Square local crafts markets and the Bo-Kaap colourful Cape Malay buildings add a sense of authenticity to your trip, and Long Street vibrant restaurants, bars and clubs come alive after dark. Perhaps wander around the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a working harbour and hub of entertainment and shopping opportunities.

Day 2 | Explore Cape Town

Today you have the option to explore the area on your own or to simply relax, enjoying the facilities available at your accommodation at Victoria & Alfred Hotel, Waterfront. Today would be a good day to try to take the Cable Car to the top of Table Mountain weather permitting.

Day 3 | Cape Point & Peninsula Tour

A full day of stunning scenery awaits, as we embark on an exploration of the Cape Peninsula.  We see the trendy beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, before crossing over to the quaint fishing village of Hout Bay. Continuing along Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breath-taking coastal drives, we make our way to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Board the funicular (optional and for own account) for a trip to the top of the Peninsula for incredible panoramic outlooks over the perceived meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Next up, the naval base of Simon’s Town is a richly historic destination of museums, and home to Boulders Beach, renowned for its African Penguin breeding colony. We take some time to wander along the boardwalks, marveling at the antics of these amusing creatures. Our final stop is Kirstenbosch Gardens, then return to your hotel.

Day 4 | Explore The Cape West Coast

Travel to the Cape West Coast. Spend the day on a self driving tour of the area. At the end of the day check into The Farmhouse for 2 nights.

Cape West Coast

The Cape’s West Coast is a best explained as a vision of seascapes, unspoilt beaches, rural fishing communities and expanses of wildflowers. Craggy mountain formations stand sentry over tidal pools, and Cape Dutch homes appear almost deserted in their remote locations. Colourful carpets of the Cape’s glorious flowers blanket the landscape in pretty hues which balance the clear blues of the sea and sky. The beauty of the land does little to reflect the harshness of the sea and the village of Paternoster, translated as “Our Father,” stands as tribute to the prayers of the Portuguese sea-farers whose ships were dashed on the rocks of this unforgiving coastline.The Dutch heritage can be further explored with a visit to the Columbine Lighthouse, built on Castle Rock, and after navigating the spiral staircase you can take in breath-taking views over the Britannia Reef and the Atlantic Ocean. The West Coast National Park is inhabited by a diverse array of plants, mammals and birds including antelope species (eland, kudu, gemsbok, red hartebeest, bontebok, steenbok, duiker and zebra) as well as ostriches, bat-eared foxes, caracal and grey mongooses. The endangered Cape gannet, African penguins, flamingos and African oystercatchers will keep bird-lovers thoroughly entertained. During season, whales and dolphins may occasionally be spotted off-shore. Hiking, biking and horse-riding is an ideal way for active travellers to explore the region.

Day 5 | The Cape West Coast

Today you have the option to explore Cape Columbine Nature Reserve and Paternoster on your own in rental car. Return end of day and enjoy the facilities available at The Farmhouse and explore the town of Langebaan.

Day 6 |  Cape Winelands

Check out of the Farmhouse and travel from West Coast to the Cape Winelands, ending in the town of Franschhoek for a 2 night stay.

Cape Winelands

An easy drive from Cape Town, the Winelands dramatic mountains stand guard over a quilt of working vineyards, elegant Cape Dutch estates and quaint towns boasting top restaurants, hotels and spas. Sample some of the regions award-winning wine offerings, stroll through exquisitely maintained gardens or explore art galleries and antique shops in the oak-lined streets of the local towns. The buzzing university village of Stellenbosch was named after the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel and, as the historic hub of the Winelands it is surrounded by around 200 wineries. Franschhoek, a charming town with French Hugenot heritage is arguably the culinary headquarters of the country and home to the creative genius of a number of resident chefs. Framed by a majestic backdrop of the Helderberg Mountains, Paarl lies peacefully nestled amongst vineyards laden with the harvest’s finest offerings. Enjoy gourmet meals lovingly prepared by experienced chefs and served in lush gardens, or stylish restaurants. Sample local wines and explore the cellars of well-established wine farms. The Winelands is all about stepping back from the hectic pace of modern living and appreciating the finer things in life in some of the most gorgeous and tranquil locations this country has to offer.

Day 7 | Explore Franschhoek

You have the option to explore the area on your own today. You could do a hike in Franschhoek Valley or do a Wine Tram our Tuk Tuk tour (book on own on arrival) in and around Franschhoek. Your hotel is very centrally located on Franschhoek main street, which is lined with fine restaurants.

Day 8 | Greater Kruger National Park

Check out early from Franschhoek Boutique Hotel and drive from Franschhoek in rental car and drop off at Cape Town Airport. Check in 90 mins prior for flight from Cape Town to Hoedspruit. Approx timing 1040am with arrival 1310pm. On arrival, you will be met at Hoedspruit Airport and transferred (shared) to Simbavati River Lodge.

Check in on arrival for a 2 night stay and then meet for afternoon tea, briefing and late afternoon game drive. Return for cocktails and dinner back at Simbavati River Lodge.

Greater Kruger National Park

As you bump along the park roads, the sun warm upon your face and air dry in the back of your throat, your senses are on high alert. This is the real Africa, cut away from the hectic pace of life, home to Africa’s Big 5. The Kruger is alive, from the nervously twitching herd of impala after a night of predator action, to the wild dog cavorting like domestic pets alongside the road.  Marvel as a herd of elephant simply appear from out the bush, then silently vanish back into the landscape.

With over 2 million hectares of pristine wilderness, the Kruger’s biodiversity sustains numerous species of game and birds. The dry north consists of Baobab trees, scrubland and rocky outcroppings which can be seen for miles and animals tend to gather around water sources. As you come south, the park gets busier, animal numbers increase and the backdrop changes to grassland and acacia woodlands.

On the western borders, private reserves such as Sabi Sands and the Timbavati open onto the Kruger, offering an exclusive game experience with the flexibility of night drives and off-road 4 x 4 safaris. Swaying to the movement of an open vehicle while wrapped warmly against the night chills, is an unforgettable experience. The call of a Nightjar darting overhead and the flash of eyes reflected from the bushes brings an entirely different twist to your safari and as you drop your head back and look up – the crisp night skies go on forever.

Day 9 | On Safari In The Timbavati

Wake up and get ready to go on a safari game drive in the Timbavati.

The Timbavati

The Timbavati shares an unfenced border with the Kruger National Park and covers approximately 53,392 hectares.  It is home to large herds of buffalo and elephant and is famous for the extremely rare white lions. A typical day on safari starts off with an early morning open vehicle game drive, at a time when the animals are most active. A refreshing coffee stop affords the chance to listen to the sounds of the bush and admire the landscape. After some down-time and a siesta back at camp, set off again in the late afternoon when the bush comes alive and the waterholes are a magnet for thirsty animals. Sundowners as night falls, then spotlights come out in search of a new range of creatures. For those needing to expend some energy, a guided walking safari is an ideal way to learn about smaller animals and plants.

Timbavati Game drives take place in the early morning and late afternoon when the animals are naturally most active. Key to the experience is your English-speaking guide who works closely with a tracker from the local Shangaan community. This duo pool their knowledge, experience and fresh observations to maximise your wildlife sightings. Their passion is in seeking out a variety of wildlife for guests to see as well as ensuring a rewarding, informative and invigorating overall experience. Your guide is often a keen photographer and will be conscious and considerate if your mission is to capture sightings on camera.The afternoon drive often ends after the sun sets, offering guest a glimpse into nocturnal bush life. With the help of a spotlight, guests may spot a hunter on the prowl, or one of the shy animals which only operate after dark.

Day 10 | Southern Sabi Sands

Game Drive this morning from Simbavati and then breakfast, check out and road transfer approx. 4.5-5 hours from Northern Kruger region to the Southern Kruger region and into Sabi Sand.

On arrival at Nottens Bush Camp, check in for a 3 night fully inclusive stay. AM & PM Game Drives daily & late AM bush walk.

Day 11 & 12 | Southern Sabi Sands Safari

Experience A Day at Notten’s

Your early morning wakeup call is to be cherished as there is no better time of day than a beautiful fresh start with the rising sun, while you are surrounded by bird songs and calls of the wild. Your game drive safari sets off in an open-top Landcruiser guided by an experienced and knowledgeable game ranger and his tracker.

Afternoon Game Drive

The afternoon game drive is at days end and coincides with grazers, after lying low in the heat of the day, they come out from the thickets to feed. In the midst of the African bush, sundowner drinks will be served with the setting sun and in conclusion, a night drive is conducted with a spotlight and while predators emerge to begin their patrols, we also search for the elusive creatures of the dark.

On Safari: Southern Sabi Sands

The Sabi Sands is a private 65,000-hectare reserve known as one of the few places that you can see the Big 5 in one day. It has a diverse habitat with the Sand and Sabi Rivers running through it, a huge range of wildlife and a reputation for big cat sightings. Head out for an early morning game drive in open vehicles, stopping for a refreshing coffee break and a chance to listen to the sounds of the bush whilst admiring the landscape.

After some down-time and a siesta back at camp, set off again in the late afternoon when the bush comes alive. Sundowners as night falls, then spotlights come out in search of a new range of creatures. For those needing to expend some energy, a guided walking safari is an ideal way to learn about smaller animals and plants.

Day 13 | Depart Home

Early morning game drive from Nottens. Return for breakfast, check out and then road transfer to the Skukuza Airport in time for the afternoon flight to Johannesburg. Allow at least 3 hours to check in for international flight and to clear through SA Immigration & Customs to exit South Africa!

*Please note: This itinerary is subject to change. In the spirit of expedition travel, plans may change slightly to take full advantage of encounters with the destination and its people, culture, and wildlife.

ENCHANTING SOUTH AFRICA

January 26 – February 07, 2025

Rates:

Rwanda Gorilla Trek Trip Package Rate (based on a 2 guest trip): Approx. $5,955.00 per person sharing

– Rates are per person and are based on shared accommodations
– Rates are approximate until the time of booking
– Rates are quoted in USD and subject to change without prior notice
– Rates are based on availability at the time of booking

Plus the 2 Domestic Flights Within South Africa: $550.00 approx. 

-These 2 flights we will book, CPT to HDS (Hoedspruit) SZK (Skukuza) to JNB

International Airfare:

Africa Easy does not make international air reservations and international air is not included in your quote. However, please do let us know if you would like assistance with booking your international air. We would be happy to put you in touch with our airline partner, Exito Travel to assist you with your international air reservation.

Included:

–  Accommodations as listed in above Itinerary
– Meet & Greet Services
– Transfers & Touring as listed in Itinerary
– Bed & Breakfast basis in Cape Town, Langebaan, Franschhoek
– All meals & local beverages, while on Safari are included at Simbavati & Nottens

Not Included:

– International Air into Cape Town and out of Johannesburg
– Domestic flights within SA listed & quoted separately above.
– All Gratuities for guides/transfer agents/porters/lodge staff
– Meals on travel days and or/tours, flights not mentioned in itinerary
– All beverages other than when on Safari in South Africa
– Travel Insurance
– Vaccinations/Malaria Medication
– Laundry
– Any items of a personal nature, such as communication charges, phone calls/internet and souvenirs
– Anything not mentioned above in included section

General Information:

– Medical Evacuation insurance is mandatory for travel with Africa Easy and proof of purchase is required. Africa Easy also strongly recommends purchasing a policy that includes trip cancellation /interruption coverage.

Deposit & Payments:

A completed & signed Africa Easy Reservation Form, along with your 25% trip deposit and full regional and/or domestic air payment (if applicable) is required at the time of booking.

Reservations:

This itinerary is subject to the availability of all services at the time of making a reservation. No space is being held at this time. Please contact Africa Easy for the full terms and conditions that apply. We are happy to answer questions and discuss your trip.

To reserve space on a trip on the Africa Easy website, please contact Africa Easy by calling 1-800-617-2319 or (206) 284-2319. Click here to e-mail the Africa Easy Team.