SOUTH AFRICAN ADVENTURE & SAFARI

Upon arrival transfer from the Cape Town airport to your hotel. Once you’ve checked in, the remainder of the day is yours to relax and explore at your own pace. Set amidst rugged mountains and the gleaming ocean, Cape Town’s mesmerizing charm effortlessly captures the senses. With the iconic Table Mountain forming an exquisite backdrop, this South African treasure showcases a harmonious blend of stunning natural landscapes and a dynamic cultural scene. Embrace the opportunity to enjoy the city’s delights.

After breakfast, depart for a city tour of Cape Town. Weather permitting, take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain, a soaring flat-topped mountain, to observe and learn about exotic flora and fauna and take in one of the best views in all of Africa. See the Malay Quarter, Company Gardens, the Edwardian-styled Town Hall, and the Castle of Good Hope. After some free time for lunch, we head on a tour to Robben Island. Take a ferry to ride across Table Bay to Robben Island. The island was once a prison, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison. Today, it’s a UNESCO World Heritage Site where former political prisoners give tours. See Mandela’s cell in prison, it’s roughly seven square feet, and hear what life was like for him and the other prisoners there, including how he was made to dig in a quarry when officials found out he was acting as a leader during a prisoner rebellion. As part of our Cultural Discovery Series, join us tonight before dinner for a discussion with Christo Brand, a former prison warden who was responsible for guarding Nelson Mandela on Robben Island, and later at Pollsmoor Prison. Mr. Brand will share his personal experiences and insights on Apartheid, and his friendship with Nelson Mandela. He is also the author of the book Mandela: My Prisoner, My Friend. (B)

Today after breakfast, step into a world of culinary wonders and artistic brilliance on our Stellenbosch walking tour. Exploring the heart of the town, we stop for a variety of fresh, local and sustainably produced sweet and savoury tastings. Whilst enjoying award-winning gin, enjoy the scenery of small town life before being taken on a taste adventure paired with craft beer. In addition to its international wine reputation, Stellenbosch is also home to curated, public art exhibitions.. Savor the handiwork of passionate food artisans and explore captivating art exhibitions that define Stellenbosch’s unique charm. Return to Cape Town and enjoy the late afternoon and evening at leisure. (B,L*)

Today enjoy a full free day to explore Cape Town or embark on our optional Cape Peninsula tour for a day of extraordinary experiences. Cruise along the exquisite stretch of coastline known as Millionaire's Paradise from Clifton to Camps Bay, to the exclusive beach hamlet of Llandudno towards the charming working harbour of Hout Bay. Embark on an up-close and personal Seal Island cruise. Wind along the legendary Chapman's Peak Drive, hugging the cliffs and relishing the breathtaking ocean views, before arriving at the Cape of Good Hope section of the Table Mountain National Park. Meander back along the coast towards the City, visiting the historic naval port of Simon’s Town. The adventure reaches its pinnacle at Boulder’s Beach, home to an enchanting penguin colony. Watch these delightful waddlers in their natural habitat, a truly heartwarming experience that will leave you with lasting memories. Dinner at Gold Restaurant this evening includes a Djembe Drumming experience and entertainment. (B,D)

After breakfast, transfer to Cape Town for your flight to Kruger. Welcome to Mpumalanga Region, a province of subtropical savanna, deep ravines, emerald valleys, crystal-clear streams, teeming wildlife, and fascinating history. Situated in the north-eastern part of South Africa and bordered by Mozambique and the Kingdom of Swaziland, Mpumalanga is justly known as the land of the rising sun. Upon arrival to Hazyview, you will check into your lodge and relax. Dinner is served tonight at the lodge. (B,D)

Enjoy one of Africa’s leading attractions, Kruger National Park. The park covers an immense area, allowing animals to follow ancient migration routes between South Africa, Zimbabwe, and Mozambique. This region is one of the finest in Africa hosting more mammal species than any other game reserve on the continent. In addition to the “big five,” you’re likely to see zebra, wildebeest, giraffe, hippo, crocodile, wild dog, and vast antelope herds. The varied terrain is also home to more than 300 species of trees, including baobabs, marulas and mopanes, countless insects and fascinating plants and grasses. Spend the day on game drives in open safari vehicles and see magnificent wild animals in their natural habitat. Be on a lookout for “big five” and experience the best of Africa’s natural beauty. Later in the afternoon return to the lodge and relax before you join your fellow travelers for dinner in the evening. (B,D)

After breakfast you depart for Johannesburg. Johannesburg is a relatively young city, just over 100 years old. The city is proud to be the biggest man-made forest in the world and consists of over ten million trees, making it a beautiful green city in the summer. The majority of South Africa’s gold mines can be found near Johannesburg and gave rise to the city just over 100 years ago. Johannesburg is also known as one of the most cosmopolitan cities in Africa with a melting pot of different cultures from South Africa, Africa and the world. Upon arrival to Johannesburg, you visit Soweto (South Western Township), the largest black residential area in South Africa. You will see a fascinating contrast to Sandton and Rosebank in the northeast. This “city within a city” consists of 50 suburbs or sections, and your tour route takes you to all the major points of interest. During this panoramic tour, view the Hector Peterson Museum and Mandela House. Rest of the evening at leisure. (B)

After breakfast transfer from your hotel to the Johannesburg International Airport for your flight back to the USA. (B)

Arrive back to New York and the USA.