Countries: South Africa , The Kingdom of Eswatini
Destinations: Johannesburg , Panorama Route , Piggs Peak , Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast , Durban , Drakensberg , Eastern Cape , Garden Route , Oudtshoorn , Cape Town
Group Size: 40
Duration (days): 15
Number of Adults: 0
Number of Children: 0
An expedition of surprise, our South African Surprise package is a collection of experiences unique to South Africa. South Africa is a country of vast contrasts of landscapes, a thrill-seekers paradise, a wildlife enthusiast dream, and a photographer’s canvas.
Beginning in Johannesburg, highlights include the Kruger National Park, where wildlife never seizes to amaze, and the Panorama Route is a wonder of natural sights. It’s then on to eSwatini and Zululand, two regions steeped in ancient culture and tradition. The Southern Drakensberg Mountains forms a great part of this package, where nature rejuvenates the soul. The last leg includes trips to the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, a world hero and revolutionary, and the famed Garden Route region, ending in the Mother City, Cape Town.
Itinerary Outline
Day 1 : Johannesburg
On arrival in Johannesburg at OR Tambo International Airport, you’ll be met by your representative and assisted to your shuttle transfer service (unescorted, driver only) that will transfer you to your hotel. You have the remainder of the day at leisure until 19h00 when we all meet at the hotel reception for a welcome briefing on the tour and a chance to meet your fellow travellers.
For a varied, diverse, exciting and fulfilling holiday, one would be hard pressed to find a country in Africa, or the world, which offers more. South Africa has it all, including wildlife, mountains, deserts, beaches, forests, numerous cultures, first world cities, untouched landscapes, casinos, amusement parks, exciting activities, excellent roads and infrastructure, off road 4 x 4 routes, fantastic food, good wine, great sports stadiums, incredible people and a triumphant history.
Although usually only used for quick stopovers by most travellers, Joburg is an exciting and vibrant city, with some excellent hotels, fantastic shopping facilities, loads of historic signifcance, and a flourishing sporting culture.
With the launch of the Gautrain in 2010, the Sandton district is now only 10 minutes from the airport, and this places one in a position to easily access most of the city's highlights.
Protea Hotel by Marriott O. R. Tambo Airport
Experience the perfect blend of style, comfort and convenience at Protea Hotel O.R. Tambo Airport. Our modern hotel, located in gorgeous Kempton Park, Johannesburg, makes the ideal landing point for ambitious business travelers as well as those seeking to explore the wonders of the city. Embark from O.R. Tambo International Airport via our free airport shuttle and arrive at our hotel lobby in minutes. Protea Hotel O.R. Tambo Airport offers one of the premier event facilities in South Africa, with 10 state-of-the-art venues and ample space for conferences, exhibitions and auto shows. Our hotel also features a fully serviced business center to assist with all your meeting needs. Enjoy upscale amenities including an outdoor pool, popular flight simulator and delicious on-site dining at The Warehouse, our aviation-themed international fusion restaurant. Relax after a long day in modern, comfortable rooms featuring soundproof windows, plush bedding and marble bathrooms.
Day 2 : Panorama Route
This morning we leave for Mpumalanga, dropping several hundred feet into the lush subtropical region of the Lowveld. Travel along the circular Panorama Route, visiting the view sites of the Blyde River Canyon, home to the Three Rondavels and one of the natural wonders of Africa; gasp at the glory of God’s Window, with a boundless view of mountains and fertile plains and visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 500 kms
The Panorama Route in Mpumalanga starts at Nelspruit where you can visit the Lowveld Botanical Garden.
It moves on to White River where you can go play golf and visit a Motor Museum. Sabie brings tons of adventure with activities like 4x4 trips and abseiling. Pilgrims Rest has a few spectacular pubs and restaurants, which is a must if you want to experience the culture of the town.
Graskop is the highlight of the Panorama Route, with attractions like:
- God's Window
- Lisbon Falls
- Berlin Falls
- the Pinnacle
- Bourke`s Luck Potholes, and
- Blyde River Canyon
The Panorama Route ends at the Swadini Forever Resort, which has tons of activities from boat trips to Microlight fights.
Hippo Hollow Country Estate is a comfortable, family-friendly hotel situated on the banks of the Sabie River near Hazyview in South Africa. It is an ideal destination from which to access nearby Kruger National Park and the spectacular sights of Mpumalanga Province.
Set within indigenous gardens, Hippo Hollow offers Hazyview accommodationin a choice of Courtyard Rooms, River Chalets and Garden Chalets. The 18 thatched River Chalets overlook the famous Sabie River and are perfect for small families. The 19 Garden Chalets are the preference of couples and our 54 Courtyard Rooms are best suited to business travellers. All feature en-suite bathrooms and modern amenities.
Day 3 : Panorama Route
We have a bright and early start to the day to experience the wonders of exploring the Kruger National Park in our closed vehicle. Why not join a thrilling open-vehicle game safari through the Kruger National Park (optional and for own account)? The Kruger National Park is an internationally renowned game reserve of nearly 2 million hectares that supports the largest variety of wildlife species on the African continent. Keep a lookout for the wonderful flora and bird life that abounds. We return to our hotel around lunch time and your afternoon is at leisure to relax. [Packed Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 200 kms
Day 4 : Piggs Peak
This morning we travel to eSwatini (Swaziland), an independent Kingdom within the borders of South Africa, known for its lovely scenery, crafts and colourful indigenous culture. An interactive cultural experience introduces us to the charming people of eSwatini and their traditions. We travel south to our hotel, nestled in the mountainous peaks of eSwatini (Swaziland) for overnight. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 200 kms
Despite being the smallest landlocked country in the Southern hemisphere, and the second smallest country in continental Africa, Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, more than makes up for its lack of size with a hugely diverse range of attractions and activities.
As one of the few remaining monarchies in Africa, culture and heritage are deeply engrained in all aspects of Swazi life, ensuring an unforgettable experience for all who visit. As well as the rich culture, the overwhelming friendliness of the people makes all visitors feel truly welcome and very safe.
Add to that stunning scenery of mountains and valleys, forests and plains; plus wildlife reserves across the country that are home to The Big Five; and a fascinating mix of modern and traditional festivals, ceremonies and events, and you have all that’s best about Africa in one small but perfectly formed and welcoming country.
Piggs Peak is the only settlement of any size in North West Eswatini. The town’s name is often Africanised in local parlance to ‘Spiggy-Speegy’, or even just ‘Spiggy’. Whatever its pronunciation, it derives from the French prospector William Pigg, whose son, ironically, went on to marry a girl with the surname Hogg. Pigg made his fortune not in bacon but gold, after discovering a reef in the nearby hills in 1884. His ‘peak’ was the nearby summit of Emlembe, Eswatini’s highest mountain. As mining developed in the region – first gold and then asbestos – the intersection of the Bulembu supply road with the Mbabane–Matsamo corridor became a local hub, offering services to settlers. This was the origin of today’s town, and also its entry route for tourists.
Nestled amidst pine trees and manicured lawns, this hotel offers a tranquil environment with breathtaking views of the Makhonjwa Mountains. Whether you’re seeking a relaxing getaway, a venue for a productive business meeting, or a place to host a special celebration, Piggs Peak Hotel is the ideal choice.
Day 5 : Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast
After breakfast we journey through eSwatini (Swaziland), visiting Ngwenya Glass, where a small group of eSwati craftsmen and women create beautifully handmade items from recycled glass. Our next stop is The Swazi Candles Centre where you will experience local artisans creating colourful, handmade candles. Our journey continues into the Kingdom of KwaZulu-Natal where ancient traditions and modern cultures of both Zulu and Settler have combined into a vibrant society living in peace and harmony. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon for overnight. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 375 kms
Kwazulu-Natal - Elephant Coast
KwaZulu-Natal's Elephant Coast is an eco-tourism destination in every sense of the word. It's renowned for its wetland and wildlife conservation efforts, both of which are major tourism drawcards.
It offers a host of eco-oriented pursuits, of which Big 5 game viewing, hikes and walks, scuba diving, and sea turtle tracking are the most popular.
The Elephant Coast, KwaZulu-Natal houses two of South Africa's greatest natural institutions, the World Heritage Site iSimangaliso Wetland Park and the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, made famous for its rhino preservation efforts.
iSimangaliso stretches for 220 km from Lake St Lucia to the Mozambique border. It is dominated by Lake St Lucia and the St Lucia estuary with its network of coastal lakes, dunes, subtropical forests, swamps and wetland systems that provide a haven for indigenous flora and fauna, especially bird life.
The park features several reserves, including the St Lucia Game Reserve, St Lucia Marine Reserve, the Sodwana Bay National Park, Maputaland Marine Reserve, False Bay Park and Mkuze Game Reserve, all of which promise exciting game viewing.
There are countless ways to explore iSimangaliso, including hiking, walking, forest and dune trails, boat cruises, canoeing and scuba diving the spectacular coral reefs at Sodwana Bay.
Inland, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park is a conservation marvel renowned for its efforts to save the white rhino from extinction. Today it is home to more than 1 000 white rhino, lion, elephant, buffalo and leopard, providing an authentic Big 5 African safari experience.
The Elephant Coast's magnificent beaches are another major attraction, not only to visitors from around the world, but also to hordes of endangered loggerhead and leatherback turtles that lay their eggs in the dunes here between November and January.
Set on the magnificent Elephant Coast, you’ll get to experience spectacular accommodation near South Africa’s oldest Game Reserve, the 3-star ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe – the ultimate South African holiday destination.
ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe offers a wide variety of affordable holiday accommodation including 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 Centerpiece 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.
Day 6 : Durban
Guests have the option to take a morning optional open vehicle game drive in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve (optional and for own account), before heading off to Durban. An orientation tour of Durban, that travels along the Golden Mile, the beachfront promenade, The Point Waterfront, and harbour introduces us to this multicultural, vibrant seaside city. The orientation tour concludes with a visit to the Durban Botanic Gardens before arriving at our hotel late afternoon. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 320 kms
There is no city in South Africa quite like Durban. Because of its subtropical coastal climate, warm seas, safe swimming beaches, its variety of restaurants and nightlife and many sporting facilities, Durban has always been a holiday city, popular with both domestic and international visitors. It helps that Durban also has the excellent King Shaka International Airport, great transport infrastructure and a variety of accommodation to suit all tastes and pockets.
Durban’s rich cultural diversity is what gives it a vibrancy enjoyed by few other South African cities. By far the largest section of Durban’s population is Zulu speaking, and evidence of Zulu culture is everywhere – in the markets, in art galleries and theatres, on the streets where vendors sell Zulu and African crafts and curios, and in the sprawling townships that surround the city. It is fascinating to visit sites where people such as Mahatma Gandhi, John Dube and other heroes of the South African struggle once lived.
It’s always summer at Protea Hotel Fire & Ice! by Marriott Durban Umhlanga Ridge! Just a short drive from Moses Mabhida Stadium and sunny Umhlanga Beach, north of Durban – you won’t have to go far to feel the sand between your toes and the ocean breeze on your skin. Our 60s surf inspired hotel with its nostalgic undertones makes for an idyllic Umhlanga escape. The sun-drenched deck area is the ultimate hot spot to meet up and chill out. Our trendy restaurant serves up delicious dishes for breakfast, lunch and dinner – not to mention killer cocktails and coffees. Bright, breezy and ultra-modern rooms are ideal for unwinding after a busy day out, while complimentary uncapped Wi-Fi keeps you connected. Get down to business and choose from a variety of venues with adaptable seating for up to 100 delegates. The hotel is just a few steps away from the buzzing Gateway Theatre of Shopping with its range of retail outlets and entertainment areas. Stay fit in our gym and refresh in our sparkling pool.
Day 7 : Drakensberg
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or perhaps explore the bustling Umhlanga Beach with a stroll along the Promenade mile that buzzes with energy as surfers, joggers and cyclists take to this seaside playground. Then we head into the majestic Southern Drakensberg Mountains. We visit the impressive 300-foot-high Howick Falls, located in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands town of Howick. Our journey continues through the Southern Midlands Meander Route, arriving at our hotel, situated on a scenic World Heritage site, mid-afternoon. Your afternoon is at leisure to soak up the surroundings, or enjoy fishing, hiking and even horse riding in clean mountain air (all activities are optional and for own account). Sit down to a sumptuous dinner at your hotel. [Breakfast & Dinner]
Distance travelled today: 280 kms
"Ukahlamba", or "Barrier of Spears" is a 200 kilmometre long mountain range, called the "Dragon Mountains" by the early Dutch voortrekkers.
Made up of awe-inspiring basalt cliffs, snowcapped in winter, which tower over riverine bush, lush yellowwood forests and cascading waterfalls, the range forms a massive barrier separating KwaZulu-Natal from the Kingdom of Lesotho.
Combining sheer natural beauty with a step back in time to the early tribes of Africa, the experience of exploring the Drakensberg is truly unforgettable.
Drakensberg Gardens Golf and Spa Resort
Gooderson Drakensberg Gardens is poised on a scenic 860 hectare World Heritage site, and is a one-of-a-kind retreat for guests to reconnect, relax and unwind. Venture into the great outdoors - hiking, horse riding, canoeing or trout fishing. Play a round of golf on the Southern Drakensbergs only 18 hole golf course or simply relax beside the swimming pools.
Day 8 : Drakensberg
Enjoy a full day at leisure to soak up the surroundings of the magnificent Southern Drakensberg Mountains. There are also many leisure activities to be enjoyed at the Resort. Consider joining a thrilling 4x4 tour up the spectacular Sani Pass into the mountain Kingdom of Lesotho (optional and for own account). Enjoy an evening dinner at your hotel with a wide variety of local specialities to choose from. [Breakfast & Dinner]
Day 9 : Eastern Cape
This morning we continue south to the Eastern Cape entering the fourth of the provinces and the birthplace of Nelson Mandela (fondly known as Madiba). En route we see the old traditional way of life in the former homeland area known as the Transkei and stop for lunch (own account) outside the capital of Mthata. We travel past Nelson Mandela’s birthplace and house, arriving late afternoon at our accommodation in Chinsta East, on the beautiful, unspoilt Eastern Cape Coast. A delicious dinner with local delicacies awaits you at your lodge. [Breakfast & Dinner]
Distance travelled today: 520 kms
Located in the south-eastern part of South Africa, the Eastern Cape is a destination of unmatched natural beauty – from the warm Indian Ocean to the vast plains of the Camdeboo, stretching from the foothills of the Sneeuberg Mountains in the north to the rugged Baviaans mountain wilderness in the south.
The Eastern Cape’s boasting rights include over 800 km of incredible coastline with some of the most amazing beaches in all of South Africa, jaw-dropping rock formations and landscapes, and magnificently rich diversity of fauna and flora. The Baviaanskloof is renowned as a UNESCO World Heritage Site because of its extreme floristic diversity. Uniquely the Eastern Cape offers sightings of the Big 7 (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, buffalo, Southern Right whales and Great White sharks). Friendly people and their generous hospitality is not the only warmth you’ll experience. The Eastern Cape has more ‘sunshine’ days than any other South African province – more than 300 out of 365 days are sunny. Most significantly, the Eastern Cape is the birthplace of several of South Africa’s most celebrated leaders, notably the late global icon and humanitarian, Nelson Mandela.
Crawford's Beach Lodge, set along the magical Wild Coast, offers rustic luxury accommodation for guests who are looking for privacy, peace and tranquillity.
Crawford's is nestled in the middle of the beautiful Chintsa Bay on the Wild Coast, surrounded by rolling hills, lush tropical beach forests and overlooks the warm Indian Ocean. The location is malaria free. The lodge is approximately 42km from East London, far enough from the maddening crowd, but close enough for emergencies.
Crawford's Beach Lodge offers luxury suites which consist of double and twin bedrooms all en-suite and each with its own private balcony, overlooking the sea. The suites are fully equipped with bar fridge, DStv, coffee and tea making facilities, with air conditioning or fans and fully equipped kitchenettes.
There is also a self catering cottage on the property sleeping eight guests in four bedrooms. There are three bathrooms, a kitchen and a lounge area. There are gorgeous views and you are just a short walk from the beach.
Day 10 : Garden Route
We awake to the sounds of the crashing waves and have the morning at leisure to unwind with beach sand between our toes. The beach stretches on uninterrupted for many kilometres and the thick indigenous beach forest is a haven for an amazing variety of birdlife. We set off heading south to the Tsitsikamma Forest. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 510 kms
Running from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth, with rugged mountain ranges separating the forested coastline from the harsh, vast landscapes of the Karoo, the Garden Route has a host of enchanting towns, bays and beaches.
It is the ideal location for a family holiday, being simple to self-drive, and allowing pure relaxation.
With 3 main airports servicing the Garden Route, it is easy to access, but once there, it is hard to leave!
The Tsitsikamma Village Inn offers 49 beautiful and individually decorated rooms. This historic hotel, offering scenic accommodation in Storms River along the Garden Route of South Africa, was established in 1946. This hotel is situated in the Storms River Village tucked away in the lush Tsitsikamma forest, close to Storms River Mouth, in the Tsitsikamma National Park. This historic South African hotel has served as a stop-over for travellers for more than a century. Most of the rooms are situated around a typical Village green. These buildings reflect many of the different building styles that were to be found in the Cape Colony during the 1800s.
Day 11 : Garden Route
After a leisurely breakfast, visit the spectacularly beautiful Tsitsikamma Forest, which provides scenic walking opportunities. A short walk to the Storms River Mouth offers some magnificent views of the gorge and river below. Arrive in Knysna, known as the oyster box of South Africa, for check in at your hotel. Enjoy a dinner filled with culinary delights at the hotel’s trendy restaurant. [Breakfast & Dinner]
Distance travelled today: 92 kms
Knysna is a haven of beaches, forests, lakes and sea, and aha The Rex Hotel is one of this coastal town’s most sophisticated accommodation offerings. A warm welcome and timeless elegance ensure guests enjoy a special experience during their stay at aha The Rex Hotel, as we promise superior service and exceptional comfort time and again.
Located on the world-famous Garden Route, aha The Rex Hotel is a celebration of urban style, making it one of the most exhilarating getaway destinations in its class. Expect an eclectic mix of modern and classic comforts that capture the essence of 4-star luxury. The O Bar & Eatery serves Buffet Breakfast daily in a contemporary setting with cuisine that is beautifully presented and prepared using only the freshest ingredients that Knysna has to offer. aha The Rex Hotel offers travellers a gateway to Knysna’s outstanding restaurants, blossoming forests, nature reserves, arts and crafts, and the shores of the serene lagoon.
Day 12 : Oudtshoorn
After breakfast, we travel inland over the spectacular Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, known as the ‘feather capital of the world’ because of its ostrich industry. We visit a working ostrich farm and then explore the famous Cango Caves, with a walk around its magnificent dripstone formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Overnight in Oudtshoorn. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 180 kms
The ostrich capital of the world is an adventure, culture and environment destination in the Klein Karoo – the unique semi-arid landscape that lies between the Swartberg and Outeniqua mountain ranges.
Most visitors come to Oudtshoorn to see ostriches and to experience the Cango Caves, but the town itself is a treasure of interesting historical facts and -buildings. The good news is that it will cost the visitor less than an average meal to experience it. Why not spend a day or two just exploring the history of the town?
Protea Hotel Oudtshoorn Riempie Estate
Combining country charm with Protea Hotel’s superior standards, this hotel is situated in a farm-like setting with well-appointed thatched rondawels and is only 20 minutes away from the Cango Caves. Enjoy the best that Oudtshoorn has to offer from the comfortable and beautiful Protea Hotel Riempie Estate—a cosy country atmosphere in a tranquil setting. The hotel is near the exotic crocodile and ostrich farms the town is famous for and is a short drive from the town’s central business district. The hotel offers an excellent restaurant that serves the best in country fare, and guests can keep their heart rates up with golf, tennis, squash, a fitness center, and lawn bowling amenities nearby, plus our conference facility is ideal for hosting country-style events.
Day 13 : Cape Town
Today’s journey travels along the famous Route 62 and through the Little Karoo, ending in Cape Town. On the way we stop off to sample top quality port style wines in Calitzdorp, before continuing via Worcester and the Huguenot Tunnel, arriving in Cape Town in the late afternoon. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 420 kms
Scenically spectacular, with an array of activities on offer, Cape Town is great for an extended holiday on its own, or for an add on to a safari in South Africa, or any other countries.
As an easy 2 hour hop from Johannesburg, with numerous daily flights, as well as some international flights from and to various countries, Cape Town is easily accessible, and an enjoyable way to ease into, or wind down, an African itinerary.
Cape Town has regularly been voted amongst the world's most popular holiday destinations, with many visitors returning year after year.
In the popular historic suburb of Gardens, at the foot of Table Mountain, and just south of the city centre, the SunSquare Cape Town Gardens hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the best of the Mother City. The hotel’s ideal location is complemented by free uncapped WiFi, contemporary accommodation, amenities for work and play, and great room rates.
The hotel’s 136 en-suite rooms are well-appointed with flatscreen DStv, air-con, free WiFi, a mini-fridge, and more. Accommodation is offered in a choice of Standard Rooms, Family Rooms with two double beds, and four spacious king bed Suites. You’ll get breakfast included in room rates, and two kids under 18 can stay free when sharing with adults.
Workout in the hotel gym, relax in the outdoor pool, or get to Camps Bay beach, the Table Mountain cableway, or the V&A Waterfront in just 15 minutes from the hotel. Business guests will appreciate the self-service workstations, professional services, four adaptable venues for up to 120 delegates, and easy access to the CTICC just a short drive away.
In the popular historic suburb of Gardens, at the foot of Table Mountain, and just south of the city centre, the SunSquare Cape Town Gardens hotel is perfectly positioned for exploring the best of the Mother City. The hotel’s ideal location is complemented by free uncapped WiFi, contemporary accommodation, amenities for work and play, and great room rates.
Day 14 : Cape Town
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Perhaps join a sightseeing tour of Cape Town and Table Mountain (optional and for own account) or spend the day exploring the magnificent Cape Winelands on a full day winelands tour (optional and for own account) or join a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula, with its dramatic coastline and spectacular scenic beauty (optional and for own account). Although a small city, Cape Town is packed with sightseeing attractions, excellent bars, cafes, and restaurants as well as colourful craft markets. Alternatively relax on one of Cape Town’s many pristine beaches. Overnight in Cape Town. [Breakfast]