15 Day South African Surprise

Day 1

Johannesburg

When you arrive at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg a representative will be waiting to assist you to a shuttle transfer service that will take you to your first holiday hotel (unescorted). The rest of the day is free for you to get settled in, chill out and enjoy the friendly South African atmosphere before a welcome brief at 7pm. This will offer the chance to meet others in your tour group and discuss some of the exciting adventures on your forthcoming itinerary.

Day 2

Johannesburg to Mpumalanga

Wake up in the cosmopolitan city of Johannesburg and let your great adventure commence. Get things underway with a scenic journey to the subtropical Lowveld plains of Mpumalanga, a spectacular province that is a nature lover’s paradise. Experience the magnificent views on the drive along Panorama Route, visiting glorious geological formations such as Blyde River Canyon. Marvel at wondrous formations such as Bourke’s Luck Potholes and then continue on to the ancient Three Rondavels. Gaze in awe at the magnificent sight of God’s Window, an unbelievable landscape boasting eye-catching canyons, grand mountains and indigenous forestry.

Breakfast included

Day 3

Mpumalanga

Start the day with an early wake up for a fabulous closed vehicle excursion around the world famous Kruger National Park where you’ll witness the most incredible wildlife Africa has to offer. There’s also an option to join an exhilarating open vehicle tour (additional charge). Enjoy a pre-packed breakfast and spend the morning in this wildlife wonderland that spans nearly 2 million hectares and is home to the ‘Big Five’ of lion, leopard, rhino, elephant and African buffalo. You’ll also get to witness amazing bird life and stunning scenery. When you return to your hotel in the afternoon you are free to spend the remainder of the day as you please.

Packed breakfast included

Day 4

Mpumalanga to Eswatini (Swaziland)

It’s time to venture to the independent kingdom of Eswatini, which was previously known as Swaziland and is famous for its expansive nature reserves and fascinating tribal culture. Get a taste of authenticity by immersing yourself in the life of local people, hearing their magical stories, admiring their beautiful native land and learning about their indigenous traditions. After an educational day in Eswatini you’ll travel down to a quaint mountainous haven where you’ll spend the night in your next hotel.

Breakfast included

Day 5

Eswatini (Swaziland) to St Lucia and surrounds

Once you’ve fuelled up on a delicious breakfast it’s time to venture through Eswatini and visit the unique shopping complex of Ngwenya Glass, where intricately hand-made items have been entirely crafted from recycled glass. To observe more innovative and sustainable homemade creations, the next stop is The Swazi Candles Centre, where delightful eco-friendly candles are carefully produced. The journey will carry on into KwaZulu-Natal, a coastal kingdom with amazing game viewings and pristine beaches where the ancient and modern cultures of both Zulu and Settler have blended seamlessly into a vibrant society. In the late afternoon you’ll arrive at your superb accommodation and have time to appreciate the wonder of your surroundings.

Breakfast included

Day 6

St Lucia and surrounds to Durban

In the morning, those who crave another encounter with wildlife have the option to take an adventurous open vehicle game drive in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve (additional charge). Then everyone will head to Durban, a wondrous city that combines the commercial aspects of Johannesburg with the laid-back coastal atmosphere of Cape Town. Enjoy an orientation tour of this underrated gem that boasts major tourist attractions, including the picturesque beachfront promenade, Golden Mile, and the up-and-coming Durban Point, an accumulation of trendy bars and eateries on the waterfront. Your time in this diverse city concludes with a visit to the verdant Durban Botanic Gardens where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll around the manicured grounds. You’ll arrive back at your hotel in the late afternoon.

Breakfast included

Day 7

Durban to Drakensberg

Start the day with a relaxing stroll along the tourist-friendly Umhlanga Beach or take the opportunity to work up a sweat with a jog around the city streets. Later you discover dramatic scenery in the Southern Drakensberg Mountains and also visit the sensational Howick Falls, a momentous 300-foot high natural landmark in the tropical town of Howick in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands. Next you’ll travel through the Southern Midlands Meander Route to your next hotel which is located on a scenic World Heritage Site. You’ll arrive mid-afternoon and have the rest of the day to do as you please, with a range of exciting optional activities to choose from, including a pleasant hike, fresh-water fishing or horseback riding (all activities are optional with an additional charge). After an enriching day in the invigorating sunshine you’ll spend the evening tucking into a tasty dinner with your new friends.

Breakfast and dinner included

Day 8

Drakensberg

If you are craving a bit of ‘me time’, today is your chance to enjoy some freedom and soak up the relaxing atmosphere in a glorious mountainous setting. Explore the mystical Southern Drakensberg Mountains and take in the incredible views they offer, along with a plethora of dynamic activities to make this trip even more special. These can include a visit into the independent mountain kingdom of Lesotho where you’ll admire amazing scenery as you travel up the Sani Pass in a 4x4 vehicle (additional charge). There’s also the option to simply relax and unwind at the hotel, before savouring the flavour of traditional local fare.

Breakfast and dinner included

Day 9

Drakensberg to Eastern Cape Coast

An enthralling day awaits for history buffs, with the chance to visit the birthplace and home Nelson Mandela, nobel prize winner and the first president of South Africa. You’ll also travel south to the Eastern Cape, a province steeped in rich heritage and culture, with a chance to witness traditional ways of life in the Transkei along the way. After stopping for lunch (additional charge) outside the capital of Mthatha you’ll get to drive past Nelson Mandela’s birthplace and the house he lived in. Next you’ll visit the charming coastal village of Chintsa East on the stunning Eastern Cape Coast. This haven of tranquillity is where you’ll enjoy delicious local cuisine when the sun sets, including fresh seafood, and spend the night in a comfortable lodge where you’ll drift off to the sound of rippling waves.

Breakfast and dinner included

Day 10

Eastern Cape Coast to Tsitsikamma

Spend a leisurely morning exploring the beautiful surroundings and topping up your tan on a pristine white sandy beach that extends for miles. Try to spot some majestic species of birds emerging from the tropical forests and experience uninterrupted moments of luxurious peace, away from the bustling world of modernity. After you’ve enjoyed a feast of blissful relaxation, it’s time to venture down south to the vast indigenous lands of Tsitsikamma Forest.

Breakfast included

Day 11

Tsitsikamma to Knysna

Another exciting day awaits after your leisurely breakfast, with the opportunity for pleasant walks around the remarkable Tsitsikamma Forest. Take a short stroll to Storms River Mouth, an absolute must-see on the magnificent Garden Route where you can take in the awe-inspiring views of natural gorges and rivers. Next stop is Knysna, a magical town with serene lagoons and golden beaches that is renowned for its scrumptious fresh oysters. End the day with a wonderful gastronomic experience at your hotel restaurant as night falls.

Breakfast and dinner included

Day 12

Knysna to Oudtshoorn to Mossel Bay

Wake up to a hearty breakfast and then prepare to be amazed by picturesque views on your journey over the Outeniqua Pass. Arrive at the ostrich capital of the world, Oudtshoorn, for a visit to a local ostrich farm and an intriguing guided tour around the widely acclaimed Cango Caves. Observe the bewitching stalactites and stalagmites as you wander around this incredible geological formation. Later you’ll travel back down to the coast to spend the night in the postcard-perfect harbour town of Mossel Bay.

Breakfast included

Day 13

Mossel Bay to Cape Town

Set off on a long-awaited road trip to Cape Town, home of legendary flat-topped Table Mountain. Along the way, there will be a stop in the rustic settlement of Albertinia, well known for its farms which grow Aloe plants which contain gel which is used in many health and skin care products. This is an important aspect of African culture which provides a livelihood for unskilled workers in the region. When it’s time to hit the road again, you’ll make your way through Swellendham, a historical town full of heritage sites. Then you’ll head for Worcester, a viticultural centre and the Huguenot Tunnel, before reaching your final destination, Cape Town.

Breakfast included

Day 14

Cape Town (unescorted)

Before this once-in-lifetime holiday comes to an end, you’ll get the chance to explore this enchanting capital city with unescorted freedom. Join an insightful tour of Cape Town, embark on a challenging hike up the renowned Table Mountain or check out the impressive shopping scene for everything from high-end items to quirky souvenirs. You can also choose to join a Cape Winelands tour to sample some of the superb produce, catch some rays on one of the beautiful beaches, or visit some of the enlightening museums and galleries across the city (all activities are optional, with an additional charge). Blessed with a huge abundance of modern cafés, funky bars and exquisite restaurants, Cape Town is a wonderful place to conclude this fabulous 15-day experience.

Breakfast included

Day 15

Cape Town

Enjoy your final breakfast before you leave the hotel by 11am and take the opportunity for a farewell stroll around the city. Later in the day you’ll be picked up and transferred to Cape Town International Airport for your onward travel.

Breakfast included

South African Surprise Tour

South African Surprise Tour - £1,979pp, flights included

Overview

Prices Available on Request. To Book Call Us On: 01244 957 714

Tour Highlights

Inclusions

Prices Available on Request. To Book Call Us On: 01244 957 714

Itinerary

Day 1

Johannesburg

Day 2

Johannesburg to Mpumalanga

Day 3

Mpumalanga

Day 4

Mpumalanga to Eswatini (Swaziland)

Day 5

Eswatini (Swaziland) to St Lucia and surrounds

Day 6

St Lucia and surrounds to Durban

Day 7

Durban to Drakensberg

Day 8

Drakensberg

Day 9

Drakensberg to Eastern Cape Coast

Day 10

Eastern Cape Coast to Tsitsikamma

Day 11

Tsitsikamma to Knysna

Day 12

Knysna to Oudtshoorn to Mossel Bay

Day 13

Mossel Bay to Cape Town

Day 14

Cape Town (unescorted)

Day 15

Cape Town