Itinerary
ItineraryDay 1 - Arrive Johannesburg, SA
Welcome to South Africa and the start of your African Adventure. Arrive Johannesburg this evening, transfer to your hotel for the night.
Note: Please schedule your flights so you arrive today.
Day 2 - Johannesburg
Wake up refreshed and ready to start the day! You have free time to explore the area on your own or take in an optional tour. This evening enjoy a welcome dinner & tour briefing with your fellow travellers.
Day 3 - Johannesburg
This morning, take a trip through the township of Soweto, the heartland of the movement that freed South Africa from apartheid. Explore it the sensitive way, with a local guide. Learn about Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu on the street where they both lived, hear about activist Hector Peterson's life and death, and more with visits to the Hector Peterson Memorial and Apartheid Museum. Lunch is included today.
Day 4 - Kruger Region
Travel overland to Limpopo Province which offers some of the best attractions for visitors to South Africa. Home to many top tier nature reserves. A land of exquisite sights sounds and tastes, from glorious sunsets over Kruger National Park to delicious wine and dining. The Limpopo province borders Botswana, Zimbabwe and Mozambique making it a place where African culture, cuisine and landscape merge to give one an excellent taste of what Africa has to offer. Our camp for the next 4 nights combines the warmth and vibrancy of a safari, exuding a true feeling of being in a bygone era. Overlooking the Makhutsi River, tucked deep in the Big Five Karongwe Game Reserve, offering an unrivalled African Safari experience where the warm atmosphere, friendly staff and fine cuisine compliment the excellent Big 5 game viewing. Enjoy early morning and late afternoon safaris in open 4×4 safari vehicles conducted by experienced guides and trackers. When not out on safari searching for the Big 5, you have time to relax at the pool or retire to one of the beautifully decorated lounges.
Day 5 - Kruger Region
A game-rich area, you can expect to see the Big 5 and more on daily game drives and guided bush walks. Days are about adventure and game drives & bush walks are led by experienced rangers and guides.
Day 6 - Kruger Region
A game-rich area, you can expect to see the Big 5 and more on daily game drives and guided bush walks. Days are about adventure and game drives & bush walks are led by experienced rangers and guides.
Day 7 - Kruger Region
A game-rich area, you can expect to see the Big 5 and more on daily game drives and guided bush walks. Days are about adventure and game drives & bush walks are led by experienced rangers and guides.
Day 8 - Kruger Region to Hazyview, South Africa
Venture along the Panorama Route visiting various sites along the way; Three Rondavels-Blyde, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, God’s Window, a breathtaking natural rock formation that allows for spectacular views of the Lowveld and the ravine directly below. From the vantage of the viewpoint, the cliffs plunge more than 700m to lush indigenous forest below. Situated just outside of Hazyview, between the Drakensberg Mountains to the west and the low-lying bushveld of the Greater Kruger Area to the east, on the banks of the Sabie River we reach our overnight accommodation. After traversing the countryside and African bush on game drives, it’s time to knock the dust off! Relax, unwind and watch as hippo, crocodile and other wildlife congregate at the river.
Day 9 - Hazyview to Livingstone, Zambia
This morning transfer to the airport for our scheduled internal flight to Livingstone. Our lodge for the next two nights is situated on the lush banks of the Zambezi River, seamlessly blending into its surroundings. Enjoy the same breathtaking views that once captivated David Livingstone, the pioneering explorer and missionary who was the first European to lay eyes on the Falls. Furthermore, the lodge is located within the tranquil Mosi-Oa-Tunya National Park, providing the perfect setting for a spa experience that complements your Victoria Falls adventure.
Day 10 - Livingstone
Experience a walking and driving tour of historic Livingstone led by a local guide steeped in the history and legends of the town. Soak in the atmosphere of the High Court, the legendary North-Western Hotel, library, sports club and churches. The entire town was relocated by the British South Africa company from its original setting on the river to its current location on the hillside, and in 1907 it became the capital of what was then Northern Rhodesia. This evening, sit back and relax on a sunset cruise, what better way to celebrate the end of the day with a spectacular sunset on the Zambezi River with good friends! Drift along the river enjoying the abundant wildlife that gathers along the banks of the Zambezi River. Watch for hippos, crocodile and some good birdlife. Possible other game sightings are elephant, giraffe, buffalo and antelope. An experienced guide is on board to enhance your knowledge of the wildlife and local history of the area.
Day 11 - Livingstone to Victoria Falls
Travel to the majestic Victoria Falls, to experience an awe-inspiring guided tour of the Falls and encompassing nature reserves. No surprise why Victoria Falls is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. You'll understand it instantly as we tour through the Zimbabwean side. There are numerous spectacular vantage points along the width of the Falls, and the sight of this astounding gift of nature, simply takes your breath away. Walk through the permanent, beautifully misty rain forest which flanks the Falls, stopping to marvel at the principal sites as it cascades to the depths below the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, Cataract Island and Livingstone Island. We'll stand and watch, feel and listen to the spray and thunderous noise, as millions of litres of water tumble over the Falls into a series of narrow gorges below. The seventh Natural Wonder of the World puts on the most dramatic show!
Day 12 - Victoria Falls
Today is yours to explore as much or as little as you wish. The hotel is ideally located in the hustle and bustle of town, within walking distance of many historical sites, restaurants and activities. You might choose to view the spectacular Victoria Falls with an exhilarating helicopter ride. Explore the lush wilderness surrounding the town on a game drive. For the thrill seekers, surf the rapids on a Zambezi River white-water rafting expedition, get your heart racing and bungee jump off the Victoria Falls Bridge, or view the Falls from the exhilarating angle of Devil’s Pools on the edge of the plunging water. Enjoy the evening at a Boma Dinner & Drum Show, a must do Victoria Falls dining and entertainment experience, specializing in traditional African food, drumming and dancing. The menu comprises a range of traditional Zimbabwean dishes complemented by a BBQ buffet. Look forward to an energizing evening of drumming, traditional song and dance, along with a storyteller adding that extra element of intrigue and drama to the evening.
Day 13 - Victoria Falls to Kasane, Botswana
Travel from Victoria Falls to Kasane, Botswana for two nights. The lodge overlooking the Chobe River is located adjacent to Botswana’s game-rich Chobe National Park, offering a magical game experience. Expect to view the largest concentration of elephant in Africa as well as herds of buffalo, lion and leopard and much more! You can look forward to cruises down the Chobe River and game drives.
Day 14 - Kasane
More game drives and river cruises today! Make sure you leave time to soak up a sunset overlooking the Chobe River by grabbing a stool at the bar that overlooks an island it’s named for – Sedudu. Ask your guides about who owns the island for an interesting tale! With gorgeous views across the Chobe River, it’s the finest sundowner spot in Kasane! Reveling in the breathtaking sun-drenched sky at sunset is a perfect end to your Botswana Safari.
Day 15 - Kasane to Cape Town, South Africa
Taking the amazing experiences of Chobe National Park with you, transfer to the airport for your flight to Cape Town. Awarded 'Best Destination in Africa' for four consecutive years, Cape Town is at the top of every bucket list, and one of the most sought-after destinations in the world. Spend the next four nights ideally situated, within walking distance of Cape Town's culturally rich inner city, at the entrance to the magnificent V&A Waterfront, with its world-class shops, restaurants, hotels and diverse entertainment options.
Day 16 - Cape Town
There could be no better way to spend a day than indulging in a Cape Winelands experience packed with historic and modern architecture, fabulous cuisine, and, of course, world-class wines. South Africa is well-known for its quality white, reds, blends, and bubblies. Traversing stunning landscapes through the country’s principal wine routes of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek – all of them with fascinating histories and unique offerings. This full-day experience will have you traversing stunning landscapes, with wonderful stops along the way for wine tasting.
Day 17 - Cape Town
This morning board the ferry (weather permitting) over to Robben Island for a guided tour including a viewing of Nelson Mandela’s cell. In the afternoon take a trip to the top of the world, high above the clouds on the famous Table Mountain (weather permitting). Step into the rich history of this city passing key historical monuments and places of interest.
Day 18 - Cape Town
Enjoy a different part of the “Mother City” with a Cape Peninsula Guided Tour. With exciting stops at; Hout Bay Harbour, Chapman’s Peak (weather permitting), Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point Nature Reserve, Flying Dutchman Funicular, Boulders Beach – home of the endangered land-base colony of African penguins. Tonight’s Farewell Dinner will take you on a taste safari paired with traditional Mali puppets and entertainment.
Day 19 - Cape Town to Home Cities
After free time this morning head out to explore the diverse beauty of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden. The first botanical garden in the world to be declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, nestled at the eastern foot of Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain. Stroll down meandering paths that explore the meticulously crafted and maintained flora, containing many examples of fynbos or “Cape Flora”. This plant exists as a huge part of the Cape Floral Kingdom and is unique to this part of the world. Tired of walking beneath the boughs and leaves, you can always relax on the lawns and indulge in a picnic of wine and cheese. There are also two restaurants and a shop to explore, with an indigenous nursery and a sculpture garden. Finally, the Boomslang is an amazing canopy walkway which provides visitors with brilliant vistas of the surrounding nature. After your time at Kirstenbosch, depart for the airport and your return flight home.
Dates & Pricing
Dates & PricingDouble Occupancy
$13,647.25
Single Occupancy
$16,747.25
Prices are per person and include all taxes and fees. Prices are in CAD.
Not included in price:
- International airfare
- Airline baggage fees for additional or over-sized luggage
- Airline fuel surcharges if there is a change in fuel prices
- Tourist VISA's for Zimbabwe & Zambia
- Passport photos for VISA's
- Gratuities for Tour Director and Driver
- Meals and activities not specified in the itinerary
- Any personal expenses
- Travel Insurance
- Pre or post tour arrangements
Traveller Information
Traveller InformationImportant Information about Africa
To truly experience this program and Africa, you need to be able to participate in physical activities such as longer walking tours, walking over uneven terrain, climbing stairs and periods of standing. Some of the touring days may be longer, with select included activities occurring later in the evening.
*Wildlife sightings cannot be guaranteed.
*Table Mountain, Robben Island Tour and Chapman’s peak are subject to weather conditions.
Currency
US Dollars are widely accepted in Africa as well as most major credit cards (Visa & MasterCard). It’s a good idea to let your bank know the countries you will be travelling, to avoid your card being declined. ATM’s are also available in most of the larger cities.
Passport & Visa
* Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your return date and must contain sufficient blank pages for visas *
** Please note, entry requirements, visas and fees are subject to change at any time and are not included in the tour package**
South Africa: Canadians do not need a tourist visa to enter South Africa. However, upon arrival, immigration officials will issue a temporary resident visa (TRV) for up to 90 days. Your passport must contain at least 2 empty pages (pages must be facing each other) for the necessary South African Temporary Residence Permit. Without this, you will be denied entry into the country.
Zimbabwe/ Zambia: Canadians are eligible for a UniVisa which can be purchased upon arrival at your port of entry for $50USD cash. The KAZA UNIVISA is valid for 30 days and allows passengers to cross into Zimbabwe/ Zambia as frequently as they like within the 30-day period.
Botswana: Canadians do not need a tourist visa to enter Botswana for stay up to 90 days.
Vaccinations
We suggest you contact your doctor and local Travel Health Clinic a few months prior to your departure. Malaria pills are recommended when visiting Zimbabwe and Botswana. The Yellow Fever Vaccine may also be recommended.
Electricity
An adaptor (which changes the physical plug) and/or converter (which changes the electric current) are necessary if you plan to use an appliance with voltage different from the standard within the country you are visiting. Please note, if your appliance has dual voltage (such as your phone charger) you may still need an adaptor for the plug. When packing your electronic items for travel, please review the converter electric current level to make sure it is the same or greater than the items you are planning on using. If you plan on utilizing or transporting a sleep apnea machine, please remember to pack an extension cord and adaptor plug to ensure proper function.
Electricity in South Africa is supplied at 220/230 volts AC 50Hz. The adaptor is Type M. Electricity in Botswana is 220-240 volts at 50Hz. Type M & G adaptors can be found. Victoria Falls electricity is 220 volts at 50Hz. Both Type M & G adaptors can be found. Zambia Electricity is 230 volts and 50Hz. Type C, D & G plugs are found.
Plastic Bag Ban
Many African countries have or are in the process of implementing a Plastic Bag Ban. We ask that you consider using eco friendly alternatives to single use plastic bags when packing for this trip!
Plastic pollution is the gravest environmental threat because it affects human life, marine life, and the entire food chain. Several retailers have accepted the South Africa Plastic Bag Ban and are planning a ban on single use plastics and replacing it with shopping bags which are biodegradable.
Weather
Johannesburg: May is one of the driest months and the average daytime temperature is 14C.
Kruger area: May marks the beginning of the cold season in Kruger National Park, however, your chances of spotting wildlife have upped considerably. The average daytime temperature reaches 20C. Rain is unlikely as African winters are mostly dry.
Victoria Falls: May is a great time to visit Victoria Falls, after the region’s summer rains. The average temperature is 20C.
Chobe: May is the best time to visit Botswana. The sky is clear, the air is dry and its warm during the day, averaging 24C. The animals of the savanna are easy to spot because they concentrate around the few remaining water holes. The nights are cool.
Cape Town: May is the beginning of Autumn in Cape Town. The weather will be cool and wet. The average daytime temperature is 16C, the days are often cool and overcast.
Packing for your African Safari Guideline
Recommended clothing:
- Breathable and neutral in color to blend in with the bush (khaki, beige, greens, taupe or grey)
- Black and dark blue are thought to attract the Africa Tsetse flies, whereas predators identify red with wounded animals. With the amount of dust in the bush, white gets dirty very easily.
- Can adapt to the changing temperatures throughout the day (dress in layers)
- Items that can be easily hand washed if necessary and are quick to dry (cotton shirts)
- Light jacket/ rain jacket and/or vest
- Sweater, scarf, hat & gloves
- Items that are comfortable and warm at night are important
- A casual pair of pants and top are suitable for evening meals, very informal!
- Comfortable walking shoes and a pair of sandals to rest your feet at the end of the day
- Swimsuit, sunglasses
Other Important Items:
- Sunscreen, bug spray
- Binoculars
- Medicine
- Adaptors and converters for charging and plugging in electronic items
Tour Highlights
Tour HighlightsMeals Included
18 Breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 9 dinners are included
Welcome Briefing & Dinner
Johannesburg City Tour
Kruger National Park in South Africa
Travel the Scenic Panorama Route
Livingstone Town Tour
Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River
Victoria Falls
Chobe National Park in Botswana
Safaris, game drives, bush walks and river cruise safaris
Cape Town City Tour
Mother City with Cape Peninsula Tour
Winelands Tour
Local English-speaking guide and driver
Domestic Flights
Farewell Dinner
Included Gratuities
Gratuities for local guides, drivers, game rangers, trackers & paddlers, included meals, and porters.