Embark on an exciting adventure that combines three iconic experiences, creating the ultimate African adventure.
Your holiday starts in cosmopolitan Cape Town, a city that is graced with breathtaking scenery and is dominated by the mighty Table Mountain. There are plenty of adventurous activities you can enjoy, equally as many great restaurants and bars in which you can relax and soak up the atmosphere. Moving on to the great Kruger National Park, you will spot wildlife and stay at a fantastic game reserve where luxury meets rustic splendour. Continue your journey in style as you fly to Zimbabwe for a three-night stay close to the Zambezi River and spectacular Victoria Falls. Watch the sunset over this astonishing natural wonder of the world and enjoy the variety of activities available on and off the water.
Cape Town – Kruger National Park – Victoria Falls
Trip Highlights
- With a naturally beautiful location, explore Cape Town’s art, culture and cuisine
- Explore the V&A Waterfront, drive to Cape Point and visit the penguins at Boulders
- Experience a luxurious safari experience in Africa’s largest national park, Kruger
- Search for the Big 5 including leopard, lion and rhino during your Kruger safari
- In Zimbabwe, stay close to the Zambezi where you will enjoy an opulent sunset river cruise
- Be amazed by the unforgettable force and sheer power of the iconic Victoria Falls
Itinerary
Day 1
Depart the UK
Today you begin your journey by boarding your international overnight flight to Cape Town.
Day 2
Arrive Cape Town
Upon arrival into Cape Town airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel by a private driver. The rest of the day is free for you to relax at leisure or explore the city. You might choose to head to the V&A Waterfront where you can wander past the various shops and cafes as you enjoy the impressive views of the bay and Table Mountain which overlooks the harbour, or head to the beautiful beach of Camps Bay for sundowners on the vibrant promenade.
Victoria & Albert Hotel, Cape Town
The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
Belmond Mount Nelson
Day 3
Cape Town
You might decide to spend today exploring some of the most iconic attractions in Cape Town, such as taking a ferry across to Robben Island to visit the prison where Nelson Mandela spent the majority of his sentence and take the rotating cable cart to the summit of Table Mountain where you can experience awe-inspiring views over Cape Town. If you’d prefer something a little different, we can arrange a helicopter ride for you, where you can admire this beautiful city from a bird's eye view, take part in a traditional Cape Malay cookery class or take a tour of Cape Town by side car.
- Breakfast
Victoria & Albert Hotel, Cape Town
The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
Belmond Mount Nelson
Day 4-5
Cape Town
You have the next two days at leisure in Cape Town. You might choose to hire a car, or we can arrange a private guide, so you can explore the impressive viewpoints, iconic sites and idyllic fishing villages en route to the Cape Point. You might choose to visit Boulders Beach, home to the colony of African penguins, or take a boat trip out to Seal Island just 30 minutes off the coast of Hout Bay. We also highly recommend the fabulous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Located on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, the location and unique flora makes Kirstenbosch one of the most impressive in the world and boasts five of South Africa’s six different biomes. Alternatively visit Constantia, Cape Town’s premier wine suburb where you can enjoy a tasting or two at a beautiful winery before having dinner at a world-class restaurant.
- Breakfast
Victoria & Albert Hotel, Cape Town
The 12 Apostles Hotel and Spa
Belmond Mount Nelson
Day 6
Cape Town to Kruger National Park - by air
After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cape Town airport by private driver for your short flight to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (flight time approximately 2.5 hours). Upon arrival you will be met by your private driver who will transfer you to the beautiful Mdluli Lodge, or similar, surrounded by African bush. After you have settled into your luxury tented suite, complete with private decking, relax awhile in this idyllic spot as you admire the African décor and hand-crafted detail of your authentic yet modern lodge. Later on this afternoon you will head out for your first safari game drive.
- Breakfast,
- Dinner
Mdluli Safari Lodge
Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge
Day 7
Kruger National Park
You will rise early this morning to join a morning game drive, in search of the ‘Big 5’ and other wildlife waking up and in search of breakfast. After a morning of exploring the mountainous terrain and open plains, you will head back to the lodge for breakfast. You might choose to spend today relaxing at one of the lodge pools or maybe head out on a bush walk with an experienced guide. Late afternoon, head out on another game drive with your ranger and enjoy sundowners and bush snacks as the sun sets over the African plains.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
Mdluli Safari Lodge
Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge
Day 8
Kruger National Park
Today, you will spend another day on safari, continuing to enjoy the morning and afternoon game drives, searching for wildlife including leopard, lion, elephant and rhino, and learning about the reserves conservation efforts from your ranger. Tonight you might decide to eat dinner under the stars at the game reserves open-air boma, a wonderful way to end your last evening on safari.
- Breakfast,
- Lunch,
- Dinner
Mdluli Safari Lodge
Chitwa Chitwa Game Lodge
Day 9
Kruger National Park to Victoria Falls – by air
Wake up early again today for your last game drive before breakfast. Later on this morning you will be met and transferred by a private driver to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for your flight to Victoria Falls Airport in Zimbabwe (fight time approximately 1.5 hours). Upon arrival you will met and transferred by a private driver to your hotel in Victoria Falls. Spend this afternoon settling in, enjoying the beautiful surroundings of your peaceful retreat which is close to the mighty Zambezi River.
- Breakfast
Insika Lodge
Ilala Lodge
The Victoria Falls Hotel
Palm River Hotel
Old Drift Lodge
Day 10
Victoria Falls
Today includes a Zambezi river cruise onboard a small luxury boat that will take you to a bygone era. The cruise pays tribute to Ra-Ikane, one of the guides who first led David Livingstone to the Victoria Falls. Enjoy fine dining, historic and elegant décor and impeccable service during your adventure down the Zambezi. For the remainder of the day, relax at the hotel’s pool or organise a further activity.
- Breakfast
Insika Lodge
Ilala Lodge
The Victoria Falls Hotel
Palm River Hotel
Old Drift Lodge
Day 11
Victoria Falls
As one of the natural wonders of the world, Victoria Falls is truly an awe-inspiring sight. Imagine mighty cascades of white water tumbling over the lip of the falls, where rainbows form across the misty spray when the sun is out. Today you will take a tour of the Falls from the Zimbabwean side; the spectacular views and the astounding sight of the cascading water will take your breath away. Take a walk through the beautiful rainforest that flanks the falls, stopping to marvel at the main sights such as Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, Cataract Island and Livingstone Island.
- Breakfast
Insika Lodge
Ilala Lodge
The Victoria Falls Hotel
Palm River Hotel
Old Drift Lodge
Day 12
Victoria Falls to the UK
Today is free for you to explore or relax using the hotels facilities until you are collected and transferred to the airport by private car for your overnight flight back to the UK via Johannesburg.
- Breakfast
Extending your stay...
Experience the luxurious Blue Train as it winds its way on a three-day 1,600km journey between Cape Town and Pretoria. Once a means of transport for government officials and dignitaries today the train is renowned for its opulent interiors, exceptional service and gourmet cuisine.
Pretoria serves as the administrative capital of South Africa. Founded in 1855 highlights include the Union Buildings, Voortrekker Monument and the Pretoria National Botanical Garden. Fly from Cape Town or take the Blue Train and, once in Pretoria, drive on to Kruger National Park.
Travel outside of Cape Town and stay in the beautiful town of Stellenbosch. Framed by the majestic Stellenbosch Mountains, the town is both known for its beautifully well-preserved Cape Dutch architecture but also its proximity to a number of world-leading wine estates.
Discover Hermanus which is considered the whale watching centre of South Africa. A pretty coastal town sandwiched between mountain and sea, Hermanus is famed for its excellent whale watching particularly between June and November when southern right whales frequent the bay.
Guide to Price
12 days from £4900 per person
What's Included
- International flights
- Transfers and domestic flights as specified
- International flights
What's Not Included
- Visas
- Travel Insurance
- Expenses of a personal nature
- Meals unless specified
from £4900
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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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.
