Your diverse South Africa adventure combines three nights in captivating Cape Town with the opulent Blue Train and a safari experience in Kruger National Park. You will traverse through varied landscapes, spot wildlife, be wined and dined and get a real feel for the laid-back South African lifestyle.
Starting your holiday in Cape Town, explore the rich history, vibrant culture and take in the iconic sights that will leave you wanting to return time after time. Next, board the elegant Blue Train where you will reside in the upmost luxury for the next two nights as you make your way towards Pretoria. Enjoy the impressive services, fine dining and comfort of this unforgettable 5-star experience as you journey through the picturesque winelands, Great Karoo and diamond mining region. Your final stop is Kruger National Park, home to the ‘Big 5’ and much more flora and fauna – a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
Cape Town – The Blue Train – Pretoria – Kruger National Park
Trip Highlights
- Cosmopolitan Cape Town is one of the most beautifully located cities in the world
- Opt to add a Cape Peninsula tour, visiting the penguins at Boulders Beach and Cape Point
- Step aboard the prestigious Blue Train, an unparalleled fusion of luxury and elegance
- Relax in vintage cabins, enjoy fine-dining, impeccable 5-star service and smooth jazz
- Stay at the exquisite Makalali Private Game River Lodge in Kruger National Park
- Take two game drives a day in search of the Big 5 and other wildlife that roam the area
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart the UK
Begin your journey today by boarding your international overnight flight to Cape Town.
Day 2
Arrive Cape Town
Arrive in Cape Town early this morning where you will be met by a representative and privately transferred to your centrally located hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to relax at leisure or explore the city. You might choose to take a stroll along the Victoria & Albert Waterfront and enjoy cocktails overlooking the glistening harbour or head to sunset at the spectacular Camps Bay.
Kloof Street Hotel
Victoria & Albert Hotel, Cape Town
The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
One&Only Cape Town
Belmond Mount Nelson
Day 3
Cape Town
This morning we would recommend either a traditional Cape Malay cookery class or a tour of a township, both of which we can arrange for you. Both experiences are a great way to immerse yourself in the local culture whilst also giving back to the community. This afternoon, you may wish to take a rotating cable cart to the summit of Table Mountain where you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the city or even indulge in a champagne cruise watching the sun set over the city’s spectacular skyline.
- Breakfast
Kloof Street Hotel
Victoria & Albert Hotel, Cape Town
The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
One&Only Cape Town
Belmond Mount Nelson
Day 4
Cape Town
Today you might choose to embark on a tour of the Cape Peninsular, an area of exceptional natural beauty that has a large ecological presence. From Cape Town you will pass through famed suburbs, idyllic fishing villages and impressive viewpoints as you make your way to the Cape Point, a rocky outcrop located at the extreme southwestern tip of the African continent. On your way back to the city you may wish to stop at the beautiful botanic gardens of Kirstenbosch or enjoy some wine tasting in Constantia, Cape Town’s famous wine suburb. Enjoy your final night at one of Cape Town’s excellent restaurants.
- Breakfast
Kloof Street Hotel
Victoria & Albert Hotel, Cape Town
The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
One&Only Cape Town
Belmond Mount Nelson
Day 5
Cape Town to the Blue Train
Depart your Cape Town hotel early this morning and be privately transferred to the rail station to board the graceful Blue Train. Over the next three days you will live aboard this impressive train as it travels through South Africa’s diverse countryside. Sit back and relax in the vintage cabins as you enjoy fine-dining, an impeccable 5 star service and ornate cabins with smooth jazz playing softly in the background. Enjoy a classic afternoon tea, full dinner and post-dinner drinks.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
The Blue Train
Day 6
The Blue Train
After a luxurious breakfast and morning at leisure, after lunch the train will pull into the famous diamond town, Kimberly, providing you an opportunity to learn more about the diamond rush days. Enjoy a visit to the Open Mine Museum as well as a trip to the ‘Big Hole’ an underground mine and open-pit filled with turquoise waters where you can admire the spectacular views of this phenomenon. Back onboard, spend the afternoon taking in the beautiful vistas from the carriage and another indulgent afternoon tea, dinner and drinks.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
The Blue Train
Day 7
The Blue Train to Pretoria
Enjoy your final breakfast aboard the Blue Train before arriving to Pretoria around 18:00. You will be met and transferred to your hotel by a private driver. Enjoy the hotel facilities this evening and well as their recommended on-site restaurant.
- Breakfast
Ivory Manor Boutique Hotel
Day 8
Pretoria to Kruger National Park
Take a private car to Johannesburg Airport and check in to your onward flight to Hoedspruit. Upon arrival in Hoedspruit, you will be met by your private driver who will transfer you to the exquisite Makalali Private Game River Lodge located on the banks of the Makhutswi River. Makalali encapsulates the spirit of Africa with its warm hospitality, spectacular location and five-star facilities. After you have settled into your luxurious suite, relax before you embark on your first game drive this afternoon. Enjoy dinner at the lodge this evening, maybe a traditional ‘boma’ under the stars.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Makalali Private Game
Day 9
Kruger National Park
Wake up early this morning to join a morning game drive where you will go out in search of the ‘Big 5’ including leopard, lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo. After a morning of roaming around the verdant plains, a hearty breakfast awaits you. After a light lunch at midday and a couple of hours relaxing at the beautiful lodge you will meet your ranger and depart on another unforgettable game drive. After a hearty evening meal, enjoy a nightcap before retiring to your luxurious safari suite.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
Makalali Private Game
Day 10
Kruger National Park
Today you will spend another full day in the Kruger National Park. You may choose to join in on a guided bush walk to see some of the game reserves’ flora and fauna or enjoy the other activities and experiences available.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
Makalali Private Game
Day 11
Kruger National Park to Johannesburg Airport / Johannesburg to the UK
Wake up early again today for your last game drive at Makalali Private Game Lodge. After breakfast you will be privately transferred to Hoedspruit airport for your short flight to Johannesburg. Connect to your international flight back to the UK.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
Relax in beautiful Franschhoek, a morning’s drive from Cape Town. With its long history, the town was established by French Huguenots in the 17th century, elegant Cape Dutch architecture and proximity to world-class wine estates, Franschhoek is a wonderful place to spend a few days.
Spectacular Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe are one of the great natural wonders of the world. Atmospherically known as ‘The Smoke That Thunders’ and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the falls plunge over 100 metres into the gorge below. Fly from Hoedspruit Airport to Victoria Falls.
Discover the majestic Drakensberg Mountains. The Drakensbergs form part of the Great Escarpment, over 1,000km of breathtaking landscapes, towering peaks and waterfalls. Fly from Kruger to Durban from where it is around a three hour driving to your accommodation.
Explore the iconic battlefields of Kwa-Zulu Natal including Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. A region steeped in history and indelibly associated with the Anglo-Zulu War of 1879, walk the battlefield at Isandlwana and learn about the heroic stand at Rorke’s Drift by outnumbered British soldiers.
Guide to Price
12 days from £5200 per person
What's Included
- International flights
- Train travel and transfers as specified
- Hotel accommodation and taxes
What's Not Included
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals unless specified
from £5200
Travel Information
Getting There
British Airways, South African Airlines and Virgin Atlantic operate direct flights from London Heathrow to Johannesburg. There are also daily direct flights between London Heathrow and Cape Town with British Airways. Emirates, Qatar Airways, Etihad Airways and Turkish Airlines also connect the UK with a selection of key South African cities via their respective hubs.
Flying Times From UK
Direct flights from the UK to Johannesburg take around 11 hours and 11½ hours to Cape Town. Flights with stops en-route take between 14 and 17 hours.
Time Zone
South Africa is +2 hours ahead of GMT.
Visa Requirements
Holders of British Citizen passports travelling for tourism purposes, for up to 90 days, do not need a visa. South Africa has relaxed its requirements for travelling with children under the age of 18. Visa exempt children entering South Africa accompanied by an adult are required to present only a valid passport on arrival, regardless of whether the child is travelling with both parents, one parent, or an adult who is not a biological parent. It is no longer required to show the child’s full unabridged birth certificate. Your passport must be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of exit from South Africa and you will need at least two blank pages in your passport.
Do’s & Don’ts
Tourists should always be vigilant when travelling around South Africa and you should avoid walking alone or in isolated areas late at night or early in the morning.
Permission should always be asked before taking a person’s picture.
If you are self-driving always lock your valuables in the boot and out of sight, both when you are in and out of the car.
If it is your first visit try to incorporate a safari into your holiday. Few countries can offer the range of ethical wildlife experiences that South Africa can.
Money
The currency of South Africa is the South African Rand (ZAR) and comes in notes and coins. Exchanging money is easy to do in the UK before you travel or at airports, banks, bureaux de change and hotels in South Africa. It is always a good idea to ask for some small note denominations when you exchange money. ATMs are widely available in all towns, cities, shopping centres and many petrol stations and will accept international cards. It is always advised to contact your bank before you travel so they are aware you will be in South Africa.
Tipping
This is left to your discretion, however, tipping for good service in South Africa is common courtesy. In restaurants an acceptable amount is 10-15% however you do not need to tip if you see a service charge added to your bill. Service is often added automatically for groups of six people or more. For drivers, guides and room service, the following amounts should act as a guideline: Tour driver R50 per person per day Tour guide R75 per person per day Tour guide R50 per person per half day Hotel porter R15 per suitcase Housekeeper R25 a night
Food & Drink
Arguably South Africa’s national dish, bobotie consists of spiced minced meat baked with an egg-based topping and should be tried at least once. However, a South African institution is the ‘braai’ or South African barbecue. Everybody braais and facilities can be found almost anywhere from public outdoor picnic areas to hotels and safari lodges. Game meats are commonly found throughout South Africa with ostrich and kudu particularly popular and, with such a vast coastline, it is not surprising that the country has an impressive range of seafood. South Africa is also renowned throughout the world for excellent wines with the finest vineyards found in the Western Cape close to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.
Accommodation
There is a vast range of accommodation types on offer in South Africa, including top-end hotels with world-class facilities, modest or boutique guesthouses, mid-range hotels, cosy bed and breakfasts, historic buildings, campsites and safari lodges. Often visitors will stay in more than one town or city so may experience different types of accommodations during one holiday. In cities and large towns there is plenty of choice to suit all budgets and personal preferences whereas in smaller towns or rural locations the choice may be slightly limited.
Shopping
Ranging from local craft markets to huge shopping centres, you will be spoilt for choice with the variety of shopping opportunities available in South Africa. Souvenirs and local wares are best brought in the local markets found in most cities, along the side of the road or outside popular tourist attractions. Haggling is expected in the markets, just make sure both you and the seller are happy with the price. You can expect to pick up items such as painted ostrich eggs, art work, handcrafted jewellery and wooden carved animals and masks. Local wines also make excellent buys as they are often low in price and high in quality.
Suggested Reading
Footprint, Rough Guides and Lonely Planet have excellent guide books whilst Marco Polo have comprehensive and up to date maps of the country. There is also a wide range of literature available including:
‘Long Walk to Freedom’ by Nelson Mandela
‘After Mandela: The Battle for the Soul of South Africa’ by Alec Russell
‘A History of South Africa’ by Leonard Thompson and Lynn Berat
‘A Short History of South Africa’ by Gail Nattrass
‘The Scramble for Africa’ by Thomas Pakenham
‘Zulu Rising: The Epic Story of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift’ by Ian Knight
‘Diamonds, Gold and War: The Making of South Africa’ by Martin Meredith
‘Guidebook to the Anglo-Zulu War Battlefields’ by David Rattray
‘Invictus’ by John Carlin
‘Born a Crime’ by Trevor Noah
‘Burger's Daughter’ by Nadine Gordimer
‘Cry, the Beloved Country’ by Alan Paton
‘Ways of Dying’ by Zakes Mda
‘Hum If You Don't Know the Words’ by Bianca Marais
Health
Your doctor is the best person to advise you on staying healthy whilst abroad but current advice recommends you should be vaccinated against Hepatitis A. You might also consider vaccinations against Diphtheria, Tetanus, Typhoid Fever, Hepatitis B, Rabies, Cholera and Tuberculosis (TB). For current information on health advice you may wish to visit the National Travel Health Network and Centre (NaTHNaC) website Travel Health Pro on https://travelhealthpro.org.uk/. The Medical Advisory Services for Travellers Abroad (MASTA) website (www.masta.org) is also a useful resource.
Travel Advice
For current information on South Africa the best resource is the Foreign and Commonwealth Office (www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice) which is a comprehensive resource and updated regularly. We would also recommend visiting the Safer Tourism Foundation website (safertourism.org.uk) before you travel and will be happy to address any questions or concerns you may have.
Looking for something more bespoke?
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Our Reviews
What our clients say
We had a fantastic time in South Africa
DM & NB - South Africa - November 2023
Just to let you know that we had a fantastic time in South Africa, Victoria Falls and Chobe national park. Everything went according to plan and we stayed in some amazing places. The Blue Train was fabulous - a once in a lifetime experience! The game drives were amazing and we saw lots of wildlife.
It was a really good itinerary and I just want to say a big thank you to all of you for organising it for us. You always kept us well informed and the information you provided was second to none. We felt fully supported from start to finish. Thank you!
Getting to know you
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Helping you to design your trip
Entirely tailor-made, there is complete flexibility to incorporate all your requirements.
On-hand support, when you need it
Our team are on hand to answer any questions and ensure you are fully ready, and excited, for your trip.
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Enjoy full support from our UK team and trusted local partners throughout your journey.
We’re pleased to confirm that Pettitts Travel will not apply any surcharges to our package holidays when we are operating as a tour operator, regardless of changes in global costs. The price you agree at the time of booking is the price you will pay, a commitment we have proudly upheld for the past 38 years.
