Day 1 Monday | Johannesburg to Hoedspruit (Breakfast, Dinner)
This morning, an SA360 Travel representative will greet you as you embark on an unforgettable journey from Johannesburg to the enchanting Mpumalanga, the "Land of the Rising Sun." As you travel along the breathtaking Panorama Route, you'll encounter the stunning Blyde River Canyon. Take in the awe-inspiring views from various vantage points, starting at Bourke’s Luck Potholes and culminating at the iconic Three Rondavels. If time and weather permit, we won’t miss the chance to stop at God’s Window for a panoramic vista. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon, check in, and take some time to freshen up before dinner.
Day 2 Tuesday | Full day Open Vehicle Safari, Kruger National Park (Breakfast, Dinner)
Prepare for an early morning adventure as you transfer to the renowned Kruger National Park for an open vehicle safari. This wildlife sanctuary, covering nearly 2 million hectares, offers one of the best wildlife experiences in Africa, showcasing a rich tapestry of flora and fauna. After your morning safari, return to your hotel in the afternoon to relax before dinner at the lodge.
Day 3 Wednesday | Hoedspruit to eSwatini (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)
After breakfast, set off for the Royal Kingdom of Swaziland, a captivating land steeped in rich African traditions and stunning landscapes. Enjoy a vibrant showcase of Swazi culture, followed by a delightful traditional lunch at Matsamo Cultural Village. Next, visit the Ngwenya Glass Works, where talented artisans craft exquisite sculptures from molten glass. After exploring local craft markets, you'll arrive at your hotel nestled in the picturesque Ezulwini Valley. Dinner arrangements for the evening will be at the hotel.
Day 4 Thursday | eSwatini to Mkhuze, Zululand (Breakfast, Dinner)
After breakfast, depart for a morning visit to the Swazi Candle Factory, where each unique candle is crafted by hand using the traditional “millefiore” technique. No two candles are alike, showcasing a mesmerizing array of patterns and designs. Continue your journey via Big Bend into KwaZulu Natal, arriving at your hotel in the afternoon. Take an exhilarating scenic drive up the Ubombo Mountains, where breathtaking views of Lake Jozini await. As the sun sets, stop for sundowners and enjoy a visit to an authentic Zulu homestead for a glimpse into contemporary Zulu life before returning for dinner at your hotel.
Day 5 Friday | Mkhuze Game Reserve Open Vehicle Safari (Breakfast, Dinner)
Enjoy a game drive in the uMkhuze Game Reserve. uMkhuze harbours an astonishing diversity of habitats ranging from the eastern slopes of the Lebombo Mountains to stretches of rolling acacia savannah, swamps, woodlands and riverine forest. Wildlife includes black and white rhino, elephant, giraffe, leopard, cheetah, buffalo and a multitude of plains game. Lion were reintroduced to the park in 2013 making it a Big 5 reserve. The birding is exceptional – 420 species recorded. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon and savour a delightful dinner at the hotel to conclude your day.
Day 6 Saturday | Mkhuze to Umhlanga via St Lucia (Breakfast)
Following an early breakfast, depart along the stunning Elephant Coast of KwaZulu Natal toward St Lucia, located at the southern tip of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, embark on an estuarine boat trip, offering a unique chance to spot crocodiles, hippos, and a plethora of bird species, including the elusive African Fish Eagle. Continue your journey to Umhlanga, where you’ll check into your hotel in the afternoon. Dinner arrangements for the evening are left to your choice.
Day 7 Sunday | Durban to Port Elizabeth (Breakfast)
Enjoy a morning city tour of Durban, a melting pot of cultural and historical contrasts. Drive along the iconic Golden Mile, passing art-deco buildings and uShaka Marine World, before heading to Victoria Embankment and exploring the city’s historical landmarks like the Natal Museum and City Hall. Afterward, make your way to King Shaka International Airport to check in for your domestic flight to Port Elizabeth (flight not included). Upon arrival, an SA360 Travel representative will be ready to transfer you to your hotel, leaving you the rest of the day to relax at your leisure.
Day 8 Monday | Port Elizabeth to Plettenberg Bay (Breakfast, Dinner)
Depart Port Elizabeth and travel along the picturesque coastline to the breathtaking Tsitsikamma part of the Garden Route National Park, often referred to as the "garden of the Garden Route." Stroll along the suspension bridge that spans the Storms River mouth gorge, offering spectacular views and fantastic photo opportunities. After your exploration, head to Plettenberg Bay for dinner and overnight accommodations, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures.
Day 9 Tuesday | Plettenberg Bay and Knysna (Breakfast, Dinner)
After breakfast, experience the magic of nature at Birds of Eden, the world’s largest free-flight bird aviary, where you can observe a diverse collection of African birds in a serene setting. Also visit Monkeyland - the world’s first free roaming multi-specie primate sanctuary. Afternoon visit to the Knysna Waterfront for some time to explore before an early dinner at a waterside restaurant.
Day 10 Wednesday | Plettenberg Bay to Oudtshoorn (Breakfast)
After breakfast and check-out, travel to Oudtshoorn, the "feather capital" of the world. Here, you’ll visit a working ostrich farm for an insightful guided tour before checking into your accommodation in the late afternoon and enjoying dinner at your own leisure.
Day 11 Thursday | Oudtshoorn via Route 62 to Cape Town (Breakfast)
Following breakfast and check-out, set out for a morning tour of the awe-inspiring Cango Caves, a natural wonder that attracts visitors from around the world. Afterward, travel along Route 62 to Barrydale for lunch (on your own account). You’ll arrive in Cape Town around 5pm, concluding a day filled with remarkable experiences. Dinner arrangements for the evening are at your discretion.
Day 12 Friday | Full day Cape Peninsula Tour (Breakfast)
This morning, you’ll be collected for a full-day Cape Point and Peninsula tour. Travel along the stunning Atlantic Seaboard, passing through Sea Point, Clifton, and Camps Bay, with a stop at a scenic lookout point in Llandudno. Continue to Hout Bay, a charming fishing harbor, where you may opt for a boat trip to Seal Island (additional cost). Next, journey along Chapman’s Peak Drive to Cape Point and the Good Hope Nature Reserve. After lunch at a nearby restaurant (not included), visit historic Simon’s Town, known for its Victorian architecture and large penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon.
Day 13 Saturday | Full day Cape Winelands Tour (Breakfast)
Start your day with breakfast before embarking on a delightful full-day Cape Winelands tour. This scenic drive takes you through stunning mountain ranges, vineyards, and Cape Dutch homesteads, heading to Stellenbosch, the heart of South Africa's wine industry. Here, enjoy your first wine tasting among the picturesque estates. Travel over the Helshoogte Pass to Franschhoek, the Gourmet Capital of South Africa, where you can savour another wine tasting and indulge in a culinary experience at one of the area’s acclaimed restaurants (lunch on your own account). The day ends with a visit to a wine estate in the Paarl region to round off a delightful day before returning to Cape Town.
Day 14 Sunday | Cape Town City Tour and Tour Ends (Breakfast)
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before a morning city tour that highlights Cape Town's rich history and vibrant culture. Weather permitting, begin with a trip up Table Mountain (cable car fee not included). Explore the Company Gardens, the South African Museum, the Castle of Good Hope, and the bustling Greenmarket Square. Discover the colorful Bo-Kaap neighborhood, home to the Cape Muslim community, and learn about their contributions to the city’s tapestry. You’ll be dropped off at your hotel by 12:30pm.
