13 days Go Beyond Group Tour
Our Christmas in South Africa tour will see you exploring the most iconic sites, delving into deep-rooted culture and dining on delicious cuisine and thoroughly researched to bring you a range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, many of which are entirely exclusive to us.
These unique geological rock formations were carved by the forces of converging rivers, and offer a mesmerizing natural spectacle amidst lush surroundings.
Journey into the untamed wilderness as you seek the renowned Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhinoceros) with the help of expert rangers and trackers.
These limestone caves feature a labyrinth of enchanting chambers adorned with stunning stalactites and stalagmites, allowing glimpses into the mysteries of the underground world.
Get up close and personal with these unique residents as they waddle around and swim in crystal clear waters, framed by large granite boulders.
Enjoy a thrilling ride in this glass-fronted elevator that descends into the gorge, offering stunning panoramic views of the natural surroundings, including forests and a waterfall.
Enjoy a sensory journey through scenic vineyards, with diverse wine varieties, knowledgeable guides, and tasteful food pairings. Visiting the tasting rooms and cellars offers a chance to appreciate the region's rich winemaking heritage.
Savour the delicious Christmas dinner under the South Africa's sky and stars, while enjoying a special drumming performance.
Upon your arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg where you will be met on arrival and transferred 45 minutes to your hotel in Sandton. You have the rest of the day to relax, seek out the Christmas lights and explore your surroundings.
After breakfast visit the Apartheid Museum before travelling approximately 5.5 hours to Mpumalanga Panorama Route region. A charming and picturesque area surrounded by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, waterfalls and canyons, and fully lush and green in the summertime; it serves as a gateway to the famous Kruger National Park. After check-in you have the rest of the day at leisure.
Today is Christmas Eve! Ride the Graskop Gorge Lift for its breathtaking views of the forest canopy, before continuing to God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes, a natural wonder of swirling pools and rock formations. Marvel at the Three Rondavels, a majestic rock formation resembling traditional African huts. Check in at the private game lodge and as the day draws to a close, indulge in a dusk safari with the chance to spot local wildlife. This evening, sit down to a delicious Christmas Eve dinner at the lodge to get you into the festive spirit. Today’s sightseeing will last approximately 6 hours.
Merry Christmas! This year you’ll be celebrating in a completely different way, spending Christmas Day and Boxing Day on exciting game drives, the primary way to explore the park. These guided tours are conducted in open 4x4 vehicles, allowing you to get close to the animals while staying safe. Experienced safari guides lead the drives and are skilled at spotting wildlife and sharing their knowledge about the animals and their habitats. Christmas dinner on the 25th will be a cheer-filled affair served under the stars in the lodge’s atmospheric boma. It’ll be followed by an African drumming class where you’ll not only learn traditional beats but about its rich cultural history and how stories, songs and traditions have been passed down through the universal language of rhythm and dance. Safaris take place during the early morning and late afternoon to maximize your chances of spotting wildlife, as many animals are more active during these cooler parts of the day. A typical day while on safari is: - Wake Up Call at 05h00 - Coffee, Tea, and Hot Chocolate Served with rusks in the main area - Morning Game drive commence at 05h30 and return to the lodge at 08h30 - 09h00 - Lunch is Served 13h00 – 15h00 - Afternoon Game Drive commence at 16h00 and return to the lodge at 19h00 -19h30 - Dinner is served Timings are between 30 minutes – 1 hour later in Winter
This morning after breakfast you will depart for Johannesburg, travelling about 5 hours to the airport. Board your 2-hour flight to Gqeberha where upon arrival you will check into the hotel before dinner.
Depart this morning for Knysna and en route you will visit Oudebosch Protea Farm, learning about the country's national flower. Continue further to Tsitsikamma National Park a protected area renowned for its stunning coastal and forest landscape. Further south you will arrive in the picturesque town of Knysna, that boasts a beautiful lagoon, the Knysna Heads and has a vibrant waterfront. Today’s sightseeing will last approximately 8 hours.
Today’s highlight is The Featherbed Eco Experience, an enchanting adventure that takes visitors on a scenic boat cruise across the Knysna Lagoon. Afterwards a guided tractor ride leads you to the top of the western head, offering breathtaking views of the lagoon, ocean, and mountains. A gentle nature walk through the coastal forest provides insights into the area's unique flora and fauna and enjoy a delicious lunch in this picturesque setting. This amazing experience will last approximately 3-4 hours and you will have the rest of the day at leisure.
The journey from Knysna to Cape Town, approximately 6 hours, offers a delightful blend of unique experiences and breathtaking scenery along the way. Starting with Oudtshoorn, you will explore the fascinating Cango Caves, a subterranean wonder with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. From there, head to an ostrich farm for a tractor tour and enjoy a scrumptious lunch featuring ostrich delicacies. Continue the drive to Cape Town. Today’s journey and sightseeing will last approximately 8 hours.
Spend the final day of the year exploring Cape Town’s highlight in the sunshine! The day begins with an orientation tour into the rich history and vibrant culture of this magical city. Drive past Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens and Houses of Parliament. Lunch is an experience as you ascend Table Mountain (weather permitting) via the cableway for breathtaking panoramic views. Today’s exploration will be approximately 8 hours. Dinner this evening will be in a restaurant on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront where you’ll see in the New Year with great company, delicious food, and entertainment in a vibrant atmosphere. As the clock chimes midnight, cheers with your travel companions and enjoy a show of lights and pyrotechnics. What a place to start the new year! Should Table Mountain be closed due to weather, a drive-up Signal Hill, for a photo opportunity, will be provided.
The New Year begins with a thrilling 45-minute sea island cruise, where you can witness playful seals in their natural habitat. Weather permitting, embark on a breathtaking drive along Chapman's Peak, boasting sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Discover the rugged beauty of Cape Point, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet, and visit the historic Cape Point Lighthouse for panoramic vistas. Finally, enjoy a stop at Boulders Beach, famous for its resident African penguin colony, where you can observe these charming creatures up close. Touring this magnificent peninsular lasts for approximately 8 hours.
Another great way to begin the year is embarking on a delightful tour to explore the renowned Winelands, starting in Stellenbosch. Tour the town before making your way to Franschhoek. Boschendal Wine Estate awaits with its picturesque vineyards and rich history. Taste exquisite wines and savor a delicious lunch at Haute Cabriere, offering magnificent views of the valley. Discover the art of winemaking and sample their finest vintages. End this day with an unforgettable dinner at Gold Restaurant. You will enjoy approximately 7 hours discovering this picturesque region.
Today is at leisure for you to explore or shop as you please. The waterfront offers a wide variety of activities, dining, and entertainment experiences, from boat trips, aquarium to The Eye, you will have plenty to keep you busy. This afternoon you will transfer 1 hour to Cape Town International Airport for your flight home.
We have a selection of dedicated departures for solo travellers. These departures feature a maximum group size of 18 and a single room throughout your tour.
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