Experience the Trip of a Lifetime!
16 Day / 15 Night Vistas of South Africa Tour including Kruger Park, Johannesburg, Garden Route, Durban, Cape Town with Optional Extension to *Victoria Falls!
Depart on Select Dates thru November 20, 2008 via the services of South African Airways from New York, JFK or *Washington, IAD or many other US Departure cities at additional cost (See below for details) into Johannesburg and return to the US from Capetown, South Africa.
DAY 1 - US DEPARTURE TO JOHANNESBURG
Board your international flight at your chosen gateway and arrive Johannesburg the following afternoon. (times may vary)
DAY 2 – ARRIVAL SOUTH AFRICA
On arrival in Johannesburg a representative from iKapa Tours & Travel will collect you from the airport for your transfer to the GC Sandton City or Wanderers Hotel or Similar where you will be accommodated overnight including breakfast.
Johannesburg or more commonly known as Jo’burg is where the money is. Johannesburg was born out of the discovery of gold, but this once dusty mining town has emerged to become a modern city thriving with commercial, financial, industrial and trading opportunities. It is the headquarters of numerous international corporations and government institutions. It is a city filled with excitement and contrasts through the unique cultural and social history of the people.
From the holiday haven of Protea Hotel Wanderers, you can venture into Sandton, Rosebank or the Melrose Arch Precinct, which are minutes away and offer some of the finest shopping and dining experiences on the continent. Alternatively, relax on the hotels' poolside sundeck or enjoy a cocktail in the trendy 24-hour bar.
DAY 3 – JOHANNESBURG TO THE KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
This morning at approximately 07:30 a representative from iKapa Tours & Travel will collect you from your hotel for your early morning departure. We will travel across the Gauteng Highveld and descend into the subtropical Lowveld region of Mpumalanga, towards the world famous Kruger National Park. Consisting of more than two million hectares, the Kruger boasts more than 146 mammal species, 507 bird species and 400 different tree varieties.
You will enter the Park in late afternoon en route, where you spend some time game viewing before arriving at your accommodation, situated just outside the Paul Kruger Gate. (Game viewing done in coach/closed vehicle)
Overnight Protea Hotel Kruger Gate Lodge/Similar including breakfast and dinner. (BD)
From the time that you are welcomed to the Protea Hotel Kruger Gate, under the towering indigenous portico upon the wooden board walk to the reception area, you will know that you're about to experience something different. It's the impression of being in a tree house, reinforced when you notice that the veranda and walkway to your air-conditioned room is at a level normally the sole domain of the variety of birds found in the area.
DAY 4 - FULL DAY INSIDE THE KRUGER
To make the most of the day we recommend an early breakfast so as to commence game viewing soon after sunrise. A full day is spent inside the Kruger National Park in search of wild animals (game viewing done in coach/closed vehicles). Optional four wheel drive open vehicles for your full day game drive are available at an additional cost.
No guarantees can be given that you will encounter the “Big Five” (lion, rhino, elephant, leopard and buffalo), but you are certain of seeing at very close quarters, an abundance of antelope, birds, mammals and possibly reptiles. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon in good time for drinks and a hearty dinner.
Overnight Protea Hotel Kruger Gate Lodge/Similar including breakfast and dinner. (BD)
DAY 5 - KRUGER TO SWAZILAND
We depart this massive wildlife sanctuary to the independent Kingdom of Swaziland. During the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, an African people of Nguni descent migrated southward from Central Africa and eventually, during the mid-eighteenth century, a group of them settled in the area, which is now Swaziland. These people, the Nkosi Dlamini, became known as the Swazis, and today both names live on. Nkosi means ‘king’ and Dlamini is the surname of the royal family. The country derives its actual name from a later king, Mswati I but another name, Ngwane, is an alternative word for Swaziland.
We will travel through the capital city, Mbabane, before arriving at your accommodation, situated on its own private estate in the heart of Swaziland. Rest of the day is at leisure to enjoy the facilities at the hotel. Dinner included.
Overnight Forresters Arms Lodge OR Orion Piggs Peak hotel/Similar including breakfast. (BD)
The Foresters Arms - a short, scenic, tarred drive from the capital, Mbabane - is ideally situated for exploring all the attractions of this majestic Kingdom. The hotel is situated on 90 ha of beautiful Swaziland highlands in the heart of the Kingdom.
DAY 6 - SWAZILAND TO ST LUCIA
Today we visit one of the local markets and the Swazi Candle factory. Here you can come watch the creation process and meet the artisans who make the Light from Africa shine through their handmade candles authentic to the Kingdom of Swaziland.
We will continue through the small land locked country before re-entering South Africa. You are met with the warm welcome of the locals in another kingdom, the Kingdom of the Zulus in the Kwa-Zulu Natal Province.
We will proceed to your hotel situated on the banks of the St Lucia Estuary, overlooking Lake St Lucia. St Lucia is an entrance point to the southern portion of the Greater St Lucia Wetland Park, particularly the St Lucia Game Reserve. It is also the core access point to Fist Rocks, Mission Rocks and Cape Vidal. Arrival in the late afternoon.
Overnight at the Protea Hotel St Lucia/Similar including breakfast. (B)
Protea Hotel St. Lucia is situated on the Elephant Coast in the heart of the exquisite St Lucia World Heritage Site, between Lake St Lucia and the Indian Ocean, in Northern Kwazulu Natal. On the banks of the St Lucia Estuary and overlooking the lake, Protea Hotel St. Lucia offers 58 elegant en-suite rooms. Dining facilities include a delicious breakfast buffet, and a dinner menu offers a varied selection of specialties complemented by renowned South African wines. Sundowners on the deck, with the sounds of nature around you, will leave memories of St Lucia that will always be treasured.
DAY 7 - ST LUCIA / HLUHLUWE
Today you have a choice of a number of optional activities including Morning or Afternoon game drives in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve, an Eco cruise on Lake St Lucia, guided nature walks OR a visit to the Crocodile & snake park.
Isimangiliso (The Greater St Lucia Wetland Park) was proclaimed South Africa's first World Heritage Site in December 1999. It is considered an amazing natural phenomenon because of the occurrence of five ecosystems within a relatively small area (260 000 ha). The vast mosaic of habitats includes: marine systems such as coral reefs, beach and coastal forests; salt and freshwater marshes; open estuarine waters; lush coastal plains and drier woodland areas.
Overnight at the Protea Hotel St Lucia/Similar including breakfast. (B)
DAY 8 - ST LUCIA TO DURBAN
The tour continues to Shakaland, an authentic Zulu Village. Feel the pulsating rhythm of mysterious and magical Africa as you re-live the excitement and romance of the days of Shaka, King of the Zulus, in this authentic re-creation of the Great Kraal overlooking the Phobane Lake. Experience the sight of assegai-wielding warriors, share the fascinating secrets of the Sangomas and witness traditional customs such as tribal dancing, spear making and the beer-drinking ceremonies.
Lunch is included at Shakaland, before heading for the warm waters of the Indian Ocean and sub tropical climate. Arrival in the bustling harbour city of Durban, filled with markets, street vendors and friendly locals. The rest of the day is at leisure.
Durban formerly known as Port Natal - A natural port that has grown into one of South Africa's best-known and most popular coastal resorts and commercial ports. With stretches of safe, sandy beaches and abundance of holiday accommodation destinations available and all-year sunshine, attract visitors to this festive city every year.
Overnight at the Protea Marine Hotel /Similar including breakfast and lunch. (BL)
Situated on Durban's famous Golden Mile, within five minutes of the city centre, the Protea Hotel Edward Durban heralds a time of Victorian elegance. This world-famous hotel has played host to Princes and Presidents, Field Marshals, millionaires and movie stars since 1911. The Protea Hotels Edward Durban is well placed within the Durban golden triangle, which links the Suncoast Casino, Ushaka Marine World and the International Convention Centre (ICC). The hotel is a springboard from which to explore the rich Zulu culture and game reserves of KwaZulu Natal.
DAY 9 - DURBAN TO THE WILDCOAST
We depart the city of Durban and travel to the rural area along the Eastern Cape coast, known as the Wild Coast.
All the wild places of this world have a secret, a barrier, a portal - something that makes them hard to find or difficult to get to. The Wild Coast, on the eastern seaboard of South Africa, has its own secrets. It’s a land that has been lost in time. The modern world has passed by the Wild Coast – a combination of history, geography and politics has left it largely undeveloped and unexplored. Most roads are still gravelled; the byways unused, the population still live as they have done for centuries. There are many things that have been left undisturbed by the busy outside world. They are waiting to be discovered.
You will arrive late in the afternoon at your hotel, at Coffee Bay, in the heart of the old Transkei.
There is no trace of the wrecked ship with its cargo of coffee beans that gave Coffee Bay its name, but there are plenty of other attractions for visitors. Coffee Bay has the delightful ambience of a tropical ski village, with rustic hotels, lodges, bars and open-air lounges all within walking distance of each other, and each trying to out-picturesque its neighbour.
Overnight at the Ocean View Hotel/Similar including breakfast and dinner. (BD)
Nestled between towering cliffs and a sparkling sea, Ocean View is an accredited three star country hotel and has earned the highly recommended accolade from the AA Travel Guides. Management at Ocean View is a family affair and your hosts are waiting to welcome you with their own special blend of Wild Coast hospitality and service.
DAY 10 - FULL DAY EXPLORING THE WILDCOAST
This morning you are escorted by a local guide and given insight into the Xhosa tribe’s customs and traditions. We will visit the nearby village where you will have the opportunity to meet the local people. Your visit may also include special events happening in and around Coffee Bay such as a traditional wedding, baptism or manhood initiation.
In the afternoon, weather permitting; you join an optional excursion to the Hole-in-the-Wall, a natural hole created in the rock face by the might of the ocean. It is a vast landmark – a cliff that looms out of the sea with a huge tunnel scored neatly through the middle by wave action. The sullen crashing roar of the sea through the hole has given this famous natural feature the Xhosa name esiKhaleni (the place of sound).
We will return to the hotel later this afternoon.
Overnight at the Ocean View Hotel/Similar including breakfast and dinner. (BD)
DAY 11 - COFFEEBAY TO PORT ELIZABETH
Today we travel south along the N2 crossing the Kei River and entering 1820 Settler Country. After a long journey the tour continues to Port Elizabeth, set along the beautiful shores of Algoa Bay and better known as the Friendly City! Arrival at the hotel in the late afternoon.
Overnight at the Protea Hotel Edward/Similar including breakfast. (B)
The Protea Hotel Edward & Conference Centre is one of Port Elizabeth’s famous landmarks and definitely part of the city’s heritage - situated at the top of the Donkin Reserve, in the historical quarter of the city. Commanding a magnificent view of the city and harbour, the Protea Hotel Edward & Conference Centre was built around 1900 and, as a result of careful maintenance, still retains a distinctive Edwardian flavour. Accommodation is stylish, comfortable and en-suite, while dining is a treat in the Palm Court or The Edward Carvery restaurants.
DAY 12 - PORT ELIZABETH TO KNYSNA
This morning we will depart the Eastern Cape and travel to the Garden Route, one of the country’s most beautiful and scenic locations. Your journey will take you through dense indigenous forests, woodlands, lakes and lagoons to Knysna, known as the Jewel of the Garden Route.
Knysna is one of the Southern Cape coast's best-known holiday destinations, situated between lush forests and the shores of the peaceful lagoon - it offers many activities and attractions of a wide variety. The most well known attraction being The Heads, which are two great sandstone cliffs guarding the mouth of the lagoon, connecting the estuary with the sea. The Knysna Lagoon is one of the few places along the coast and in the world that supports an oyster hatchery, and the Knysna oysters are reputedly among the tastiest in the world.
Arrival in the afternoon, where the remainder of the day is spent at leisure
Overnight at the Protea Hotel Knysna Quays/Similar including breakfast. (B)
Situated on one of the best hotel sites in Southern Africa, the Protea Hotel Knysna Quays enjoys a stunning outlook. Located on the banks of the famous Knysna Lagoon and facing the sea through the Knysna Heads, this exciting hotel development is also an integral part of the vibrant Knysna Quays Waterfront, with its vast selection of restaurants, bars and speciality boutiques. Facilities at the Protea Hotel Knysna Quays include a heated swimming pool with a uniquely designed wooden sun deck, individual moorings and jetties at your doorstep.
DAY 13- FULL DAY IN THE GARDEN ROUTE
After a leisurely breakfast you will be taken to the Knysna harbour to board a ferry which will take you to the Featherbed Nature Reserve for a tour of the reserve, including lunch. Featherbed Nature Reserve is a unique 150 ha private reserve, encompassing the whole of the Western Head of Knysna and is one of South Africa’s Natural Heritage Sites.
Overnight at the Protea Hotel Knysna Quays/Similar including breakfast and lunch. (BL)
DAY 14 - KNYSNA VIA OUDTSHOORN TO CAPE TOWN
We depart Knysna in the early morning to travel inland along the winding Outeniqua Pass, to the Ostrich capital of the world, Oudtshoorn. Here you visit a working ostrich ranch for a tour. Those daring enough may even have the opportunity to ride an Ostrich! Lunch included at Ostrich Ranch.
We will continue along the famous Route 62 through the semi-desert, and winelands region to N1 highway, which leads to Cape Town. Your journey will take you through the towns of Robertson and Worcester before arriving in the “Mother City”. After your late afternoon arrival, you will have the evening is at leisure.
Overnight at the Protea Hotel Sea Point/Similar including breakfast. (BL)
The hotel is located in the heart of Sea Point, just minutes from the bustling city centre and only a stone's throw from the world-famous Promenade.
Protea Hotel Sea Point, with its inspirational blend of South African art and contemporary elegance, welcomes travellers with a relaxed ambiance. The Art Suites have been designed and decorated by selected South African artists, taking on the genre of each artist. It's a complete novelty for GUESTS who yearn for luxury with a bit of a twist - an absolute delight for both local and international travelers.
DAY 15 - CAPE TOWN
Today you have a day of leisure to take in the sights and sounds of Cape Town. Join one of many optional tours such as a half-day city and Table Mountain tour, a full day Cape Peninsula tour, a full day Winelands tour, a full day Township & Robben Island or take the opportunity to explore the city on your own.
Overnight at the Protea Hotel Sea Point/Similar including breakfast. (B)
DAY 16 – CAPE TOWN - USA
You will have the morning is at leisure for some last minute shopping, before you are collected and transferred to Cape Town Airport for your onward departure flight. (B)
Can't get enough of Cape Town? Spend an extra night at the Protea Hotel Sea Point for another day of leisure or to take advantage of another fantastic tour opportunity.
Additional night $75.00 per person based on double occupancy, or $120.00 based on single occupancy.
INCLUDED:
- International Air from JFK or IAD. (add-ons from other gateways)
- Transfers on scheduled tour start and end dates
- Accommodation as stated or similar
- Breakfast on all days
- Lunch on days 8, 13 & 14
- Dinner on days 3, 4, 5, 9 & 10
- Transportation in luxury air-conditioned vehicle
- Services of a professional English-speaking Tourist Guide
- Entrance fees and excursions where applicable
- Welcome pack
- Porterage.
OPTIONAL EXTRAS:
Excursions:
- Full day open vehicle game drive in Kruger @ $100.00 per person
- Half day game drive in open vehicle in Hluhluwe Game Reserve @ $65.00 per person (min 4 pax required)
- Eco Cruise on Lake St Lucia (2 hours) @ $25.00 per person
- 4x4 excursion to the Hole in the Wall at Wild Coast @ $35.00 per person
- Half Day Cape Town City & Table Mountain Tour @ $45.00 per person
- Full day Cape Point & Peninsula Tour @ $65.00 per person
- Full day Cape Winelands Tour @ $65.00 per person
- Full day Robben Island & Townships Tour @ $90.00 per person
- Extension of air dates before and after the Vistas tour are free, however if you wish to arrange private transfers on your early arrival or late departure dates, there will be a charge of $50 per transfer per car. (not person)
Additional night in Cape Town at Protea Hotel Sea Point:
$85.00 Per person based on double occupancy
$160.00 per person for a single.
*VICTORIA FALLS EXTENSION
Interested in Victoria Falls? We offer a 2 night package including air from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls which can be arranged after the South Afirca Tour. Please click for details and pricing.
* WASHINGTON, IAD, DCA and Baltimore are not available for August 09, 2008 departures.
Child Discount:
Once child age 12 and under will receive a $700 discount when sharing a room with 2 adults.
Offer is based on Double Occupancy. A Single Supplement of $425 is available to those of you traveling solo.
With the exception of children, triple accommodations are NOT permitted. 3 adults would need to book one double room and one single room (with single supplement).
A tax and service charge of $295 per person is additional.
Offer is based on availablilty.
Please note that air reservations can only be confirmed within 330 days of flights. If you choose dates that cannot be booked yet, we will keep your reservation pending until the air can be booked.
