Wild South Africa

16days from

£4,049^*per person

Overview

16 days - Escorted Tours

Discover the wild heart of South Africa on this unforgettable escorted tour, where dramatic coastlines, majestic wildlife, and vast open landscapes set the scene for a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. This tour showcases the country’s natural beauty and extraordinary wildlife, with immersive experiences in two renowned game parks—Addo Elephant National Park and Hluhluwe National Park—where we’ll enjoy full-day game drives in search of the Big Five. As we journey across the vast expanse of the Western and Eastern Cape, you’ll cover a lot of distance—but every kilometre is worth it. The route takes you through an ever-changing tapestry of landscapes, from dramatic coastal roads and lush valleys to the arid beauty of the Little Karoo and the winding mountain passes in between. Explore the Cape of Good Hope, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, and Cape Winelands. Spot marine life in Hermanus, sip Cape Brandy in Barrydale, and visit an ostrich farm in the Klein Karoo. Cruise Lake St Lucia to see hippos, crocodiles, and unique birdlife in their natural habitat. This signature tour is ideal for first-time visitors and seasoned travellers seeking a more unique and intimate tour than the classic Kruger experience.

Itinerary

Departure
Arrive in Cape Town - Begin your South African adventure in captivating Cape Town, where you’ll have time to settle in, soak up the atmosphere, and explore the city’s vibrant sights at your own pace. Nestled between mountains and sea, Cape Town offers oceanic scenery and endless experiences. You could browse the shops at the exuberant V&A Waterfront, indulge in fresh seafood with ocean views, or unwind at trendy Camps Bay, perfect for soaking up the atmosphere. No trip here is complete without ascending Table Mountain—an iconic landmark that has welcomed sailors for centuries—via the revolving cable car. The panoramic views from the summit are unforgettable. Whether you spend the day exploring hidden corners or simply following your curiosity, Cape Town invites you to uncover its unique charm. This evening, we’ll raise a glass with welcome drinks to celebrate the beginning of an unforgettable South Africa adventure.
Kirstenbosch Gardens and Cape of Good Hope - Today, along with our Tour Manager and local guide, we delve into the wonderful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Nestled just outside of Cape Town at the foothills of Table Mountain, it’s renowned as one of the premier botanical sites in South Africa, these gardens showcase a diverse array of endemic plants and exquisite orchid species. Our adventure continues as we make our way to the legendary Cape of Good Hope. We begin by driving along pristine coastlines, heading towards the delightful fishing village of Hout Bay. From there, we will navigate the incredible Chapman’s Peak Drive, which offers dramatic ocean views and rugged landscapes, leading us to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. This remarkable area is renowned for its rich biodiversity and culminates at Cape Point. Here, we witness the meeting of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean currents and the formidable rocky cliffs that have long tested the skill and nerve of those who navigate these waters.
Winelands - Today, in a small group with your fellow travellers, we embark on an enchanting journey through the picturesque Winelands. Nestled in a picturesque valley and framed by imposing mountains, the landscape is dotted with neat rows of lush vineyards and orchards, leading to endearing, centuries-old wineries. Many of these beautifully preserved structures, constructed in the distinctive Cape Dutch style, harmonise with the rolling terrain that surrounds them. Our adventure begins in the sophisticated town of Stellenbosch, a historic gem founded over 300 years ago and home to South Africa’s esteemed university. The town's elegant architecture and quaint streets contribute to its refined charm. After taking some time to wander through this lovely locale, we’ll indulge in an intriguing cellar tour and tasting session at the award-winning Blaauwklippen Wine Estate.
Free day in Cape Town - Spend a free day discovering the charm of Cape Town, a city shaped by British, Dutch, and Cape Malay heritage, and renowned for its dazzling natural beauty. If you haven't had a chance to ascend Table Mountain yet - now's your chance - it offers sweeping views of the city, ocean, and beyond. Or you may wish to visit the stylish Camps Bay to soak up the sun and watch the world go by. If conditions allow, take a ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent much of his 27-year imprisonment. For a relaxing day in Cape Town, why not linger over world-class cuisine at one of the many eateries along the V&A Waterfront? With time to spare, it’s the perfect spot to watch the world go by. It’s also packed with eateries, cafés, and unique shops, plus cultural highlights like museums, galleries, and the Cape Wheel, which gives you a bird’s-eye view of the city and Table Mountain. As you wander the scenic promenade, keep an eye out for seals lounging near the water’s edge—just one of the many wonderful surprises Cape Town has to offer. Personalise your holiday - Full Day Walk to Freedom including Robben Island Duration: Full day Price: £129pp On this tour we drive past City Hall to view Mandela's Statue, the site of the first-ever public speech Nelson Mandela delivered after his release from prison. Then visit the riveting District Six Museum and travel through the District Six Site for a sharp reminder of the past. We proceed to tour Langa Township, the oldest apartheid housing scheme in the Cape, visiting the local market - Gugu Sthebe, where the community showcases their skills and various projects including arts & crafts. In the afternoon you will board the ferry to Robben Island. Home to Nelson Mandela for many years, it gives us the opportunity to see how far South Africa has come from those days. Please note: The ferry is subject to weather conditions and if its not possible to visit Robben Island, the morning tour will still operate but a refund will be given for the Robben Island excursion. Please contact us for more information and to add the above experience to your booking. Personalise your experience - Gold Restaurant - An Immersive African Experience Duration: 3 hrs 30 mins Price: £59 What better way to experience South Africa on this incredible tour than by sharing an immersive evening of African culture and celebration with your fellow travellers at a vibrant local restaurant in Cape Town. The experience begins with an optional interactive djembe drumming session, where a master Central African drummer guides you in creating rhythmic beats—each guest finds a drum waiting at their seat, and the energy is infectious as everyone joins in. Following this lively introduction, the 14-dish food safari begins, offering a generous selection of traditional African starters and mains, all served at your table in sharing and individual portions—you can order as much as you like at no extra cost. As the evening unfolds, the entertainment continues with storytelling, traditional singing, dancing, and professional drumming performances. With its rich flavours, spirited music, and warm atmosphere, this evening is a joyful celebration of African heritage curated by a passionate Pan-African team.
Betty's Bay - We leave Cape Town behind and follow the scenic coastal route along False Bay, renowned for its sweeping views and dramatic landscapes. Our first stop is Betty’s Bay, where we visit the Stony Point Nature Reserve—home to a thriving colony of African penguins. A raised boardwalk lets you observe them up close without disturbing their habitat, and you might also spot cormorants – a species of aquatic birds – nesting on the seaweed-covered rocks. From there, we continue to our accommodation near Hermanus. You’ll have the afternoon free to relax and enjoy the hotels facilities.
Hermanus - This morning, we set off for Hermanus, a winsome coastal town renowned as the world’s premier destination for onshore whale watching, especially between June and October. From the cliffs, you can witness the powerful southern right whales as they glide and breach in the bay—an unforgettable display of nature’s grace and power. For a closer encounter, you may opt for an optional whale-watching cruise, offering a unique perspective of these gentle giants. If visiting outside of whale season, an alternative marine cruise focuses on the region’s rich marine life, including dolphins, seals, and non-migratory whales. We’ll have time to explore the picturesque town of Hermanus, known for its inviting cafés, restaurants, and boutique shops. There’s also opportunity to enjoy some of the short coastal walks, offering dramatic views of the ocean. We’ll return to the hotel in the early afternoon to relax and unwind.
Oudtshoorn - This morning we’ll travel along the scenic route through Swellendam and Barrydale, where our first stop is a local distillery for a Cape Brandy tasting. Before you sip, make sure you’ve had a good breakfast—this bold spirit, crafted from grapes grown in the Cape Winelands, is aged for at least three years and packs a 38% punch. We’ll learn about the rich heritage of Cape Brandy, a tradition said to date back to 1672, blending centuries of distilling expertise with cultural flair. Continuing along the iconic Route 62, we’ll arrive in the heart of Ostrich Country for a visit to a working ostrich farm. Here, we’ll hop aboard a tractor for South Africa’s only ostrich tractor safari, where we'll meet various ostrich breeds including Kenyan (Maasai), Zimbabwean Blue, and South African Black. We’ll also visit the hatchery to see the fluffy chicks and learn about the many uses of ostrich products—from meat and eggs to feathers and luxurious leather. After the tour, we’ll pause for a leisurely lunch at the farm’s on-site restaurant, where regional specialities are served with flair. Ostrich dishes are available for the curious, though entirely optional (don’t worry!).
Little Karoo - After breakfast, we journey through the rugged beauty of the Little Karoo, gradually making our way back to the coast. Along the route, we pass through idyllic towns like George, Knysna, and Jeffreys Bay, each offering glimpses of local life and coastal charm. The drive itself is a visual delight—cliff faces rise dramatically on one side, while rocky outcrops and the shimmering ocean stretch out on the other. In our small group, we travel through the lush expanse of Tsitsikamma National Park, stopping at a coastal reserve renowned for its indigenous forests. Here, we’ll visit the legendary Big Tree—an 800-year-old Yellowwood towering at 36.6 metres with a trunk circumference of 9 metres, standing like a guardian of the forest. Continuing on, we pause at Storms River, where the river meets the sea in a spectacular fusion of forest and ocean. The views here are extraordinary, with crashing waves and dramatic cliffs framing the horizon. By evening, we arrive in Port Elizabeth—recently renamed Gqeberha—where we’ll spend the night and reflect on the day’s scenic wonders.
Addo Elephant National Park - This morning, we set off for our lodge nestled in the heart of Addo Elephant National Park. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes, with the final hour along a gravel road. As our luxury coaches aren’t suited for this terrain, we’ll transfer to smaller vehicles for the last stretch. It may be a bit bumpy, but the destination is well worth it. Perched atop a hill with sweeping views of the valley below, the lodge offers a truly spectacular setting. Their private fleet of Land Cruisers, each seating up to 10 guests, ensures a comfortable and intimate game drive experience. And because the lodge is located within the park itself, your safari adventure begins the moment you arrive. Once settled into your luxurious accommodation, we’ll head out on an evening safari as the orange hue of the setting sun casts a warm glow over the lush plains of Addo Elephant National Park. As the sun dips below the horizon, we’ll clink our glasses and enjoy sunset drinks, toasting to our unforgettable wildlife adventure. With luck, we’ll spot the regal elephants that roam here, along with other members of the Big Five—lion, leopard, buffalo, and rhino.

Addo Elephant National Park - Today is all about wildlife and wide-open spaces as we explore the mesmerising African plains of Addo Elephant National Park in our small group. The landscape stretches endlessly, dotted with acacia trees and golden grasses that ripple in the breeze. It’s here that we'll encounter the majestic elephants, roaming gracefully in their natural habitat—a truly humbling sight. Keep your eyes peeled for other remarkable inhabitants too, including Cape buffalo, wild antelope, and the elusive black rhino. Every moment on the reserve is charged with anticipation, and the thrill of spotting these formidable creatures in the wild is nothing short of exhilarating. After the morning game drive, we'll return to the lodge for lunch before heading out again for another afternoon adventure—offering even more opportunities to spot Africa’s untamed wildlife in action.
Fly from Port Elizabeth to Durban - This morning, we’ll enjoy one final opportunity to head out on a morning game drive, soaking up the sights and sounds of the bush before we transfer to Port Elizabeth for our flight to Durban. Upon arrival in Durban in the early evening, we’ll make our way to the hotel in Umhlanga for a relaxing overnight stay.
St Lucia and Hluhluwe - This morning, we depart our hotel and begin our scenic drive north through KwaZulu-Natal toward the charming town of St Lucia, a gateway to one of South Africa’s most ecologically rich regions. Recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, St Lucia is home to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a vast and biodiverse ecosystem centred around Lake St Lucia—the country’s largest estuarine system. This unique environment supports an diverse variety of wildlife, from flamingos, pelicans, and African fish eagles to hippos and crocodiles, often seen basking along the shoreline or gliding through the water. Cruise across Lake St Lucia on a guided boat tour, where hippos lounge in the shallows and birdlife dances overhead. This UNESCO-listed estuary reveals its secrets slowly, offering a tranquil glide through one of South Africa’s most enchanting waterways. Renowned for its hippo population, the area provides a unique opportunity to observe these animals up close in their natural habitat, often wallowing or surfacing with a splash. Keep an eye out for crocodiles lurking near the banks and a variety of bird species soaring above or perched in the reeds—all of which contribute to an unforgettable and truly memorable experience, allowing you to appreciate the serene beauty of the wetlands from a fresh perspective.
Hluhluwe National Park - Today, we embark on a full-day safari adventure in Hluhluwe National Park, the oldest proclaimed game reserve in Africa, established in 1895. Nestled in the heart of KwaZulu-Natal, this historic park is not only home to the legendary Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino—but also boasts a rich diversity of flora and fauna across its rolling hills and riverine valleys. Hluhluwe is internationally acclaimed for its pioneering conservation efforts, particularly in the protection of the White Rhino. Thanks to decades of dedicated work, the park now supports the largest population of white rhinos in the world, making it one of the best places on the continent to see these magnificent creatures in the wild. Throughout the day, we’ll explore the park’s varied landscapes in search of wildlife, guided by expert rangers who will share insights into the animals, ecosystems, and conservation history that make Hluhluwe so special. With luck, we may also encounter giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, hyenas, and a wide array of birdlife.
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What's Included

Our Price Includes

The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability (date dependent) at the relevant supplement. Price includes:
15 nights in four- to five-star hand-picked hotels
16 included experiences
Return flights and transfers
Breakfast daily, 5 lunches and 4 dinners
Expert Tour Manager
Checked luggage
All additional taxes
Average group size of 22 guests
Welcome drink
2 local guides on most guided tours

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Accommodation

Ghost Mountain Inn -

★★★★

The four-star Ghost Mountain Inn has been extending a warm Zululand welcome to guests since 1962. The hotel enchants visitors with its authentic African decor and nightly traditional dance performances, creating a truly magical experience. The expansive, indigenous gardens span over 5 acres, reaching down to the water at the property's boundary – the perfect setting to indulge in a good book. Take a dip in one of the two outdoor pools, both situated in the gardens in front of the hotel, surrounded by umbrellas and loungers. Enjoy a delicious meal at the on-site restaurant, offering both buffet and à la carte options, served in the Dining Room, outdoors on the terrace, or under the clear African sky in their traditional Boma. Unwind with a drink at the bar, which opens onto the patio and offers a selection of delectable drinks, cocktails, and an award-winning wine list. After your adventure-filled days, retreat to your cosy room, each boasting a terrace or balcony with stunning garden views.

Other Information

Holiday code

R846

Holiday provided by Riviera Travel

BOOK WITH CONFIDENCE: This holiday is sold and operated by Riviera Travel (ABTA V4744, ATOL 3430). These ABTA and ATOL bonds mean that, when you book a Riviera Travel holiday, you can be 100% sure that your money is safe.

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