Your holiday summary
| Holiday type |
Tours |
|---|---|
| Country |
South Africa |
| Travel type |
Fly |
| Price range | From £1899 |
| Travel partner | Riviera Travel |
| Duration | 15 nights |
|
Need help with your booking? 0330 333 6751 |
South Africa
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South Africans call their homeland ‘a world in one country’. It covers an area equivalent to five times the size of Britain, with a climate ranging from temperate, Mediterranean and sub-tropical to desert; it offers spectacular scenery with arguably the finest wildlife on earth and no less than eleven official languages. South Africa is truly a world-class destination!
Firstly, a more naturally beautiful country would be difficult to find - from the serrated peaks of the Drakensberg mountains, to the contorted and timeless semi-desert landscapes of the Karoo and the forested sea-shores and mirror-like lakes of the Garden Route, the enchanting temperate valleys of the Winelands, the rare proximity to nature found in the national parks and the instantly recognizable symbol of the country, Table Mountain - all under an endless azure-blue sky. Quite remarkable!
Then there is the wildlife, one of the main reasons visitors travel to Africa. One of the finest places in the world to experience this is the Kruger National Park, which is a similar size to Wales. It is exactly how you imagine the African bush to be, as depicted on countless TV documentaries: areas of sweeping savannah, bisected by rivers full of hippos, muddy waterholes lined with animals quenching their thirst, and the bush itself, home to zebra and antelope, studded by immense biscuit-coloured termite hills and towering above it all, instantly recognisable giraffes! The park is home to an incredible 150 mammal and 500 bird species including the ‘big five’: elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo. Game-viewing is an intensely moving experience with nothing preparing you for the waves of emotion inspired by an encounter with these wonderful, almost regal creatures thriving in their natural habitat. Just to highlight the variety of flora too, the Cape Peninsula alone has twice as many plant varieties as Britain, which is 5,000 times bigger. But South Africa is not just about scenery and wildlife, fabulous as it is.
The cities are amazing and highlight the country’s diversity. Brash Johannesburg, city of gold and South Africa’s cultural capital, with skyscrapers of concrete and glass separated by canyon-like streets contrasting with townships on its outskirts. Then there is the ‘Mother City’, Cape Town, overlooked by the vast bulk of Table Mountain and easily Africa’s most beautiful and sophisticated city. It is a real multi-cultural melting pot, with stunning Cape architecture, superb beaches, the best cuisine in the country, fabulous street musicians, mime artists and entertainers adding to its cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Any country is shaped by its past - South Africa more than most with its recent history a constant struggle between the British, Afrikaners, and various indigenous peoples, the Zulus being the most well known. The British annexed the Cape from the Dutch during the 18th century, who then set out inland founding the Orange Free State and the Transvaal. However, with the discovery of the world’s largest gold deposits, British interest flourished! This culminated in the Boer War and unification of the country. We all inevitably associate South Africa with the inhumanities of the old Apartheid system, which needs no explanation.
Our visit to the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg takes us on a fascinating, horrifying, humbling and ultimately inspiring journey from the dark days of ‘whites only’ privilege, through to Nelson Mandela’s historic release. Documentary film, texts, sound clips and live accounts recapture life in the old South Africa.
We also visit the famous battlefields of the Zulu Wars, Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift – one a crushing British defeat sending shock waves throughout the Empire, the other a valiant stand of just 140 against 4,000 Zulus. Few tours visit these remarkable sites, a vital and deeply moving part of South Africa’s unique heritage.
The Garden Route in the Western Cape is legendary. With a mild climate and facing the southern Indian Ocean, this unique region encompasses beautiful coastal and mountain scenery. Depending on the time of year, we’ll have the opportunity to travel to the beautiful seaside resort of Hermanus, the best place for on-shore whale watching. We also spend a most enjoyable few days surrounded by the seemingly never-ending rows of vines in fertile valleys, backed by the lofty mountains of the enchanting Winelands.
This wonderful 16-day tour is designed to highlight South Africa’s truly amazing diversity of cultures, its curious blend of old and new, and its phenomenal scenery and wildlife. You leave with the feeling that the new South Africa, open to the world after years of isolation, is a land of superlatives which cannot fail to impress the welcome visitor!
Firstly, a more naturally beautiful country would be difficult to find - from the serrated peaks of the Drakensberg mountains, to the contorted and timeless semi-desert landscapes of the Karoo and the forested sea-shores and mirror-like lakes of the Garden Route, the enchanting temperate valleys of the Winelands, the rare proximity to nature found in the national parks and the instantly recognizable symbol of the country, Table Mountain - all under an endless azure-blue sky. Quite remarkable!
Then there is the wildlife, one of the main reasons visitors travel to Africa. One of the finest places in the world to experience this is the Kruger National Park, which is a similar size to Wales. It is exactly how you imagine the African bush to be, as depicted on countless TV documentaries: areas of sweeping savannah, bisected by rivers full of hippos, muddy waterholes lined with animals quenching their thirst, and the bush itself, home to zebra and antelope, studded by immense biscuit-coloured termite hills and towering above it all, instantly recognisable giraffes! The park is home to an incredible 150 mammal and 500 bird species including the ‘big five’: elephant, lion, rhino, leopard and buffalo. Game-viewing is an intensely moving experience with nothing preparing you for the waves of emotion inspired by an encounter with these wonderful, almost regal creatures thriving in their natural habitat. Just to highlight the variety of flora too, the Cape Peninsula alone has twice as many plant varieties as Britain, which is 5,000 times bigger. But South Africa is not just about scenery and wildlife, fabulous as it is.
The cities are amazing and highlight the country’s diversity. Brash Johannesburg, city of gold and South Africa’s cultural capital, with skyscrapers of concrete and glass separated by canyon-like streets contrasting with townships on its outskirts. Then there is the ‘Mother City’, Cape Town, overlooked by the vast bulk of Table Mountain and easily Africa’s most beautiful and sophisticated city. It is a real multi-cultural melting pot, with stunning Cape architecture, superb beaches, the best cuisine in the country, fabulous street musicians, mime artists and entertainers adding to its cosmopolitan atmosphere.
Any country is shaped by its past - South Africa more than most with its recent history a constant struggle between the British, Afrikaners, and various indigenous peoples, the Zulus being the most well known. The British annexed the Cape from the Dutch during the 18th century, who then set out inland founding the Orange Free State and the Transvaal. However, with the discovery of the world’s largest gold deposits, British interest flourished! This culminated in the Boer War and unification of the country. We all inevitably associate South Africa with the inhumanities of the old Apartheid system, which needs no explanation.
Our visit to the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg takes us on a fascinating, horrifying, humbling and ultimately inspiring journey from the dark days of ‘whites only’ privilege, through to Nelson Mandela’s historic release. Documentary film, texts, sound clips and live accounts recapture life in the old South Africa.
We also visit the famous battlefields of the Zulu Wars, Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift – one a crushing British defeat sending shock waves throughout the Empire, the other a valiant stand of just 140 against 4,000 Zulus. Few tours visit these remarkable sites, a vital and deeply moving part of South Africa’s unique heritage.
The Garden Route in the Western Cape is legendary. With a mild climate and facing the southern Indian Ocean, this unique region encompasses beautiful coastal and mountain scenery. Depending on the time of year, we’ll have the opportunity to travel to the beautiful seaside resort of Hermanus, the best place for on-shore whale watching. We also spend a most enjoyable few days surrounded by the seemingly never-ending rows of vines in fertile valleys, backed by the lofty mountains of the enchanting Winelands.
This wonderful 16-day tour is designed to highlight South Africa’s truly amazing diversity of cultures, its curious blend of old and new, and its phenomenal scenery and wildlife. You leave with the feeling that the new South Africa, open to the world after years of isolation, is a land of superlatives which cannot fail to impress the welcome visitor!
Included
The price of this holiday is per person, based on two people sharing a twin room. Single rooms are subject to availability at a supplement (date dependent) of £199 to £329 per person. Scheduled flights to Johannesburg and from Cape Town, all transfers, 13 nights accommodation on bed and breakfast basis, three dinners, all tours as mentioned, visit to Apartheid museum, visit to Blyde River canyon, full day Kruger safari, tour of Zulu battlefields including lunch, tour of the Featherbed Nature Reserve including lunch, whale watching depending on season (19 Apr - 22 Nov), winelands tour including a wine tasting, visit to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, tour of Cape Point, porterage of one item of luggage per person and the services of an experienced Riviera Tour Manager.
- A tour taking you into the very heart of South Africa exploring its unique history its amazing wildlife truly breathtaking scenery complemented by vibrant cities and its excellent cuisine and wines
- Return scheduled flights from London Heathrow
- Stay in hand-picked three and four-star hotels
- Guided full-day safari in the Kruger National Park one of the world's premier game reserves
- Tour of the legendary Zulu War battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke's Drift immortalised in the classic film 'Zulu'
- Internal flight to the stunning 'Garden Route'
- Go whale watching for Southern Right Whales
- Stay in the heart of the fabulously beautiful Western Cape’s Winelands, experiencing a cellar tour and tasting at a 300-year old wine estate
- Visits to the Cape of Good Hope and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens
- Visit Johannesburg’s new Apartheid Museum, a real ‘must’ in understanding present-day South Africa
- Stay three nights in cosmopolitan Cape Town – one of the world’s most naturally beautiful cities, dominated by the instantly recognisable Table Mountain
- Visit the scenically beautiful country of Swaziland
- Daily breakfast and five meals included
- Option to stay a night in a tented safari camp and experience a sundowner bushwalk with an experienced ranger
- Escorted by our experienced tour manager
Not included
Visa & Health
British passport holders do not currently require a visa. However, please ensure that your passport is valid for at least thirty days after the intended return date and there are at least two completely empty pages. Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for South Africa at least a month before departure. The Kruger National Park is considered a malarial zone, although the risk is reduced during the South African drier ‘winter’ months of May to August. Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate medication well before departure and ensure you use a strong mosquito repellent.
Note on what to wear
Early mornings in the Kruger Park can be cold, especially during June & July, so it’s best to wear several layers that can be removed as the day warms up. However, during December to February midday temperatures can, as an extreme, reach 40C (105F) in certain areas, so a hat and light breathable fabrics are best. Please avoid bright colours or white clothes whilst on safari; neutral colours of khaki, brown or beige are best and remember to bring some binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens. We recommend long sleeved shirts and trousers in the evenings to reduce the possibility of mosquito bites. Most hotels operate a ‘smart-casual’ policy in the evenings, i.e. collared shirts and long trousers. Jackets and ties are not necessary unless you choose to dine at one of Cape Town’s top restaurants.
British passport holders do not currently require a visa. However, please ensure that your passport is valid for at least thirty days after the intended return date and there are at least two completely empty pages. Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate inoculations required for South Africa at least a month before departure. The Kruger National Park is considered a malarial zone, although the risk is reduced during the South African drier ‘winter’ months of May to August. Please consult your GP regarding the appropriate medication well before departure and ensure you use a strong mosquito repellent.
Note on what to wear
Early mornings in the Kruger Park can be cold, especially during June & July, so it’s best to wear several layers that can be removed as the day warms up. However, during December to February midday temperatures can, as an extreme, reach 40C (105F) in certain areas, so a hat and light breathable fabrics are best. Please avoid bright colours or white clothes whilst on safari; neutral colours of khaki, brown or beige are best and remember to bring some binoculars and a camera with a good zoom lens. We recommend long sleeved shirts and trousers in the evenings to reduce the possibility of mosquito bites. Most hotels operate a ‘smart-casual’ policy in the evenings, i.e. collared shirts and long trousers. Jackets and ties are not necessary unless you choose to dine at one of Cape Town’s top restaurants.
Day 1
You should arrive at the airport to take your overnight flight to Johannesburg.
Day 2
After our morning arrival, we transfer to the four-star Indaba Hotel in a prosperous suburb, north of the city. On the way to our hotel we take the opportunity to visit the Apartheid Museum, a truly fascinating exhibition charting the apartheid years and the struggle against it, culminating in the first democratic elections. It is a superbly presented walk through contemporary history using original material, riveting eyewitness accounts, photographs and film. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the pleasant leafy district of Fourways and nearby Montecasino shopping mall.
Day 3
After breakfast we depart for the open spaces and farmlands of the highveld, following the Panorama Route to Kruger National Park, one of the most scenic drives in South Africa. We follow the spectacular rim of the Blyde River Canyon, an amazing 20-mile long and 2,300-foot deep gorge cutting a vast swathe through the Great Escarpment separating the temperate grasslands of the highveld and the drier savannah beyond. Deep circular rock formations created by years of erosion and many excellent vantage points offer superb photo opportunities of some of the most breathtaking views in Africa. Our hotel for the next three nights is the three-star superior Hippo Hollow Country Estate, beautifully located in the midst of lush forest on the banks of the Sabie River on the edge of the National Park. It has lovely gardens, two pools, a very cosy bar, an excellent restaurant and an open-air terrace overlooking the grounds and river where you can actually watch the hippos! A more relaxing spot would be difficult to find. Dinner is included tonight.
Day 4
Today we have a full day’s game drive in specially adapted 10 seat 4x4 vehicles. There is simply nothing to beat that rising feeling of anticipation and excitement as we enter the nearby park in the half-light of the spectacular African dawn, surrounded by the noise of a unique ‘dawn chorus’. Which animal shall we spot first? Perhaps an elephant, a family of warthogs or possibly even the elusive cheetah. Our experienced game rangers know the best tracks and waterholes whilst their stories will amuse, inform and fascinate you. Most have lived here all their lives, accumulating a vast wealth of knowledge. One minute they can be talking about the constituents of elephant dung and the next about the mating behaviour of hippos or the latest UK football scores!
Day 5
This is a day at leisure for anyone who just wants to take it easy by the one of the pools at the hotel or do some hippo-spotting from the lovely lawn overlooking the river. Alternatively, you could try elephant-back safaris, exciting helicopter flights or even river rafting (all subject to weather conditions), as well as sunset safaris or night safaris where you can experience the unique thrill of an open 4x4 vehicle game drive by spotlight.
Exclusively for Riviera guests, there are also a limited number of places available to stay the night at a tented camp and go on a bushwalk ending with a sundowner in the bush. Our camp is a real ‘back to nature’ experience, with no electricity or en-suite facilities – we use portable ‘bush’ showers and toilets. Our chef will create excellent wholesome cuisine and you can listen out for any nocturnal visitors whilst sitting around the campfire! Prices from R 2700 ( around £210 per person) sharing a two-person tent, including an afternoon game drive, sundowner bush walk, dinner and breakfast. You rejoin the main tour on the morning of day 6.
Day 6
Today we leave Kruger on our way to the battlefields of Zululand. After breakfast we’ll drive south , entering the small but scenically beautiful country of Swaziland. As the road climbs past the interestingly-named Piggs Peak we descend past lush green fields and rolling hills interspersed with small farms and drive through the country’s small capital Mbabane, passing the parliament house and Royal Palace en-route. We cross back into South Africa in the afternoon and enter Kwazulu Natal province, staying at the simple three-star Battlefields Lodge for two nights on bed and breakfast basis.
Day 7
After breakfast we visit the battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Brilliantly dramatized in the films Zulu Dawn and Zulu, these two battles, just a day apart, became a defining moment for the British Empire. In 1879 at Isandlwana, a depleted force of 1,300 were surprised and outmanoeuvred by a 20,000-strong Zulu army armed with cowhide shields and spears. Only a handful survived. The next day, just 9 miles away, about 140 British soldiers, some wounded, held off 4,000 Zulus for over ten hours at Rorke’s Drift, an action earning eleven Victoria Crosses, the largest number ever awarded in a single engagement. Isandlwana particularly, remains a haunting and lonely place, with mass graves marked by simple white stones. Our specialist Zulu guide will really make those desperate encounters come alive. We return to our hotel in the afternoon. Lunch is included today.
Day 8
After breakfast we return to Johannesburg airport, flying to George in the Western Cape and at the heart of the gorgeous Garden Route. We take the short drive to the coastal town of Knysna and our hotel, the charming three-star superior Knysna Hollow Country Estate. The comfortable rooms are all whitewashed and thatched and many overlook the two swimming pools. There is an excellent restaurant, with an extensive wine selection and a convivial bar. Dinner is included this evening.
Day 9
Knysna has been called South Africa’s favourite small town and with its stunning lagoon location, numerous art galleries, craft shops and the excellent Knysna Quays marina shopping and dining complex, it’s not hard to see why.
The Garden Route, as its name implies, really is a scenic treat! This magnificent stretch of coastline encompasses mountains, lagoons, pristine beaches, indigenous forests, wetlands teeming with birds, lakes and mountains, all blended together in a feast of sheer natural beauty: it really has it all. This morning we take a ferry across the lagoon to the Featherbed Nature Reserve, a South African Natural Heritage site which we explore by 4x4 vehicle. We stop at some magnificent viewpoints whilst our guide describes the area’s fauna, flora, history and shipwrecks, followed by an easy downhill guided walk and delicious buffet lunch under the canopy of the milkwood trees.
Day 10
This morning, we take the long scenic drive to the Cape’s beautiful Winelands. During May to mid November we drive via Hermanus, the world’s best spot for on-shore whale watching. These gentle giants move in seemingly permanent slow motion and are a truly amazing sight as they playfully cavort in the water. You arrive in the Winelands by late afternoon, staying two nights on bed-and-breakfast at the excellent four-star Devon Valley hotel, which is a real find. This little property is set on the valley slopes offering breathtaking views, lush gardens, a relaxing shady terrace, a comfortable bar with dark leather armchairs, fireplace and a wide selection of single malt whiskeys. Some tours may stay at the nearby four-star Erinvale Hotel.
Day 11
Today we tour the awesomely beautiful Winelands. Set in a valley backed by majestic mountains, rows of manicured vines and orchards stretch into a distance studded by lime-washed, often thatched, 300 year-old wineries built in the unique Cape Dutch style, seemingly mirroring the undulations of the surrounding countryside. Our first stop is the small town of Franschoek in a magnificent setting at the head of a valley, then to elegant Stellenbosch established 300 years ago and home of South Africa’s most prestigious university. Period buildings and historic streets reinforce the town’s dignified atmosphere. We have time to explore this delightful town before enjoying a fascinating cellar tour and tasting at the award-winning Boschendal Wine Estate. Tonight we’ll enjoy an included typical South African BBQ or Cape Malay Buffet dinner at our hotel.
Day 12
This morning we visit the amazing Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, located just outside Cape Town and set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. These incredible gardens are some of the best in South Africa, with numerous fascinating endemic flora and orchid varieties. We soon arrive in Cape Town and our hotel, the four-star PH Victoria Junction Hotel, staying three nights on bed and breakfast. It is located right in the centre of this bustling city. The afternoon is spent at leisure when you can start to explore this beautiful city.
Day 13
This morning, we visit Cape Point and the legendary Cape of Good Hope, firstly driving past pristine beaches to the picturesque fishing harbour of Hout Bay. We continue along the breathtakingly scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, full of rugged seascapes, to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, then on to Cape Point itself. We see the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean currents and the treacherous promontory of rocks and swells, the scourge of mariners for centuries. Finally we visit Boulders Beach and its penguin colony, returning to the city during the afternoon.
Day 14
Cape Town, featuring British, Dutch and Cape Malay influences, is simply one of the world’s most naturally beautiful cities with so much to offer the visitor! You could do some bargain shopping at the Waterfront, followed by a sumptuous seafood lunch. Or maybe go people-watching at fashionable Camps Bay? Obviously no visit to Cape Town is complete without taking a revolving cable car ride to the top of iconic Table Mountain which has announced the city to generations of sea-farers. The views are fabulous. You should also visit Robben Island (weather permitting and based on availability), where Nelson Mandela spent most of his 27-year incarceration, and whose visitors since its opening have included Bill Clinton, Margaret Thatcher, Bill Gates and even Nelson Mandela himself. Perhaps though, simply wander where your feet take you, or relax a little, taking afternoon tea at the beautiful colonial splendour of the Mount Nelson hotel - the choice is yours.
Day 15
Our final day in Cape Town is at leisure before a transfer to the airport, at the appropriate time, for our return flight to Heathrow via Johannesburg.
Day 16
We arrive back in the UK after a truly unique tour.
You should arrive at the airport to take your overnight flight to Johannesburg.
Day 2
After our morning arrival, we transfer to the four-star Indaba Hotel in a prosperous suburb, north of the city. On the way to our hotel we take the opportunity to visit the Apartheid Museum, a truly fascinating exhibition charting the apartheid years and the struggle against it, culminating in the first democratic elections. It is a superbly presented walk through contemporary history using original material, riveting eyewitness accounts, photographs and film. The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to explore the pleasant leafy district of Fourways and nearby Montecasino shopping mall.
Day 3
After breakfast we depart for the open spaces and farmlands of the highveld, following the Panorama Route to Kruger National Park, one of the most scenic drives in South Africa. We follow the spectacular rim of the Blyde River Canyon, an amazing 20-mile long and 2,300-foot deep gorge cutting a vast swathe through the Great Escarpment separating the temperate grasslands of the highveld and the drier savannah beyond. Deep circular rock formations created by years of erosion and many excellent vantage points offer superb photo opportunities of some of the most breathtaking views in Africa. Our hotel for the next three nights is the three-star superior Hippo Hollow Country Estate, beautifully located in the midst of lush forest on the banks of the Sabie River on the edge of the National Park. It has lovely gardens, two pools, a very cosy bar, an excellent restaurant and an open-air terrace overlooking the grounds and river where you can actually watch the hippos! A more relaxing spot would be difficult to find. Dinner is included tonight.
Day 4
Today we have a full day’s game drive in specially adapted 10 seat 4x4 vehicles. There is simply nothing to beat that rising feeling of anticipation and excitement as we enter the nearby park in the half-light of the spectacular African dawn, surrounded by the noise of a unique ‘dawn chorus’. Which animal shall we spot first? Perhaps an elephant, a family of warthogs or possibly even the elusive cheetah. Our experienced game rangers know the best tracks and waterholes whilst their stories will amuse, inform and fascinate you. Most have lived here all their lives, accumulating a vast wealth of knowledge. One minute they can be talking about the constituents of elephant dung and the next about the mating behaviour of hippos or the latest UK football scores!
Day 5
This is a day at leisure for anyone who just wants to take it easy by the one of the pools at the hotel or do some hippo-spotting from the lovely lawn overlooking the river. Alternatively, you could try elephant-back safaris, exciting helicopter flights or even river rafting (all subject to weather conditions), as well as sunset safaris or night safaris where you can experience the unique thrill of an open 4x4 vehicle game drive by spotlight.
Exclusively for Riviera guests, there are also a limited number of places available to stay the night at a tented camp and go on a bushwalk ending with a sundowner in the bush. Our camp is a real ‘back to nature’ experience, with no electricity or en-suite facilities – we use portable ‘bush’ showers and toilets. Our chef will create excellent wholesome cuisine and you can listen out for any nocturnal visitors whilst sitting around the campfire! Prices from R 2700 ( around £210 per person) sharing a two-person tent, including an afternoon game drive, sundowner bush walk, dinner and breakfast. You rejoin the main tour on the morning of day 6.
Day 6
Today we leave Kruger on our way to the battlefields of Zululand. After breakfast we’ll drive south , entering the small but scenically beautiful country of Swaziland. As the road climbs past the interestingly-named Piggs Peak we descend past lush green fields and rolling hills interspersed with small farms and drive through the country’s small capital Mbabane, passing the parliament house and Royal Palace en-route. We cross back into South Africa in the afternoon and enter Kwazulu Natal province, staying at the simple three-star Battlefields Lodge for two nights on bed and breakfast basis.
Day 7
After breakfast we visit the battlefields of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Brilliantly dramatized in the films Zulu Dawn and Zulu, these two battles, just a day apart, became a defining moment for the British Empire. In 1879 at Isandlwana, a depleted force of 1,300 were surprised and outmanoeuvred by a 20,000-strong Zulu army armed with cowhide shields and spears. Only a handful survived. The next day, just 9 miles away, about 140 British soldiers, some wounded, held off 4,000 Zulus for over ten hours at Rorke’s Drift, an action earning eleven Victoria Crosses, the largest number ever awarded in a single engagement. Isandlwana particularly, remains a haunting and lonely place, with mass graves marked by simple white stones. Our specialist Zulu guide will really make those desperate encounters come alive. We return to our hotel in the afternoon. Lunch is included today.
Day 8
After breakfast we return to Johannesburg airport, flying to George in the Western Cape and at the heart of the gorgeous Garden Route. We take the short drive to the coastal town of Knysna and our hotel, the charming three-star superior Knysna Hollow Country Estate. The comfortable rooms are all whitewashed and thatched and many overlook the two swimming pools. There is an excellent restaurant, with an extensive wine selection and a convivial bar. Dinner is included this evening.
Day 9
Knysna has been called South Africa’s favourite small town and with its stunning lagoon location, numerous art galleries, craft shops and the excellent Knysna Quays marina shopping and dining complex, it’s not hard to see why.
The Garden Route, as its name implies, really is a scenic treat! This magnificent stretch of coastline encompasses mountains, lagoons, pristine beaches, indigenous forests, wetlands teeming with birds, lakes and mountains, all blended together in a feast of sheer natural beauty: it really has it all. This morning we take a ferry across the lagoon to the Featherbed Nature Reserve, a South African Natural Heritage site which we explore by 4x4 vehicle. We stop at some magnificent viewpoints whilst our guide describes the area’s fauna, flora, history and shipwrecks, followed by an easy downhill guided walk and delicious buffet lunch under the canopy of the milkwood trees.
Day 10
This morning, we take the long scenic drive to the Cape’s beautiful Winelands. During May to mid November we drive via Hermanus, the world’s best spot for on-shore whale watching. These gentle giants move in seemingly permanent slow motion and are a truly amazing sight as they playfully cavort in the water. You arrive in the Winelands by late afternoon, staying two nights on bed-and-breakfast at the excellent four-star Devon Valley hotel, which is a real find. This little property is set on the valley slopes offering breathtaking views, lush gardens, a relaxing shady terrace, a comfortable bar with dark leather armchairs, fireplace and a wide selection of single malt whiskeys. Some tours may stay at the nearby four-star Erinvale Hotel.
Day 11
Today we tour the awesomely beautiful Winelands. Set in a valley backed by majestic mountains, rows of manicured vines and orchards stretch into a distance studded by lime-washed, often thatched, 300 year-old wineries built in the unique Cape Dutch style, seemingly mirroring the undulations of the surrounding countryside. Our first stop is the small town of Franschoek in a magnificent setting at the head of a valley, then to elegant Stellenbosch established 300 years ago and home of South Africa’s most prestigious university. Period buildings and historic streets reinforce the town’s dignified atmosphere. We have time to explore this delightful town before enjoying a fascinating cellar tour and tasting at the award-winning Boschendal Wine Estate. Tonight we’ll enjoy an included typical South African BBQ or Cape Malay Buffet dinner at our hotel.
Day 12
This morning we visit the amazing Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, located just outside Cape Town and set against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. These incredible gardens are some of the best in South Africa, with numerous fascinating endemic flora and orchid varieties. We soon arrive in Cape Town and our hotel, the four-star PH Victoria Junction Hotel, staying three nights on bed and breakfast. It is located right in the centre of this bustling city. The afternoon is spent at leisure when you can start to explore this beautiful city.
Day 13
This morning, we visit Cape Point and the legendary Cape of Good Hope, firstly driving past pristine beaches to the picturesque fishing harbour of Hout Bay. We continue along the breathtakingly scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive, full of rugged seascapes, to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots, then on to Cape Point itself. We see the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean currents and the treacherous promontory of rocks and swells, the scourge of mariners for centuries. Finally we visit Boulders Beach and its penguin colony, returning to the city during the afternoon.
Day 14
Cape Town, featuring British, Dutch and Cape Malay influences, is simply one of the world’s most naturally beautiful cities with so much to offer the visitor! You could do some bargain shopping at the Waterfront, followed by a sumptuous seafood lunch. Or maybe go people-watching at fashionable Camps Bay? Obviously no visit to Cape Town is complete without taking a revolving cable car ride to the top of iconic Table Mountain which has announced the city to generations of sea-farers. The views are fabulous. You should also visit Robben Island (weather permitting and based on availability), where Nelson Mandela spent most of his 27-year incarceration, and whose visitors since its opening have included Bill Clinton, Margaret Thatcher, Bill Gates and even Nelson Mandela himself. Perhaps though, simply wander where your feet take you, or relax a little, taking afternoon tea at the beautiful colonial splendour of the Mount Nelson hotel - the choice is yours.
Day 15
Our final day in Cape Town is at leisure before a transfer to the airport, at the appropriate time, for our return flight to Heathrow via Johannesburg.
Day 16
We arrive back in the UK after a truly unique tour.
Johannesburg – the four-star Indaba Hotel (www.indabahotel.co.za) lies in a quiet and prosperous suburb, north of the city. The low-rise buildings are surrounded by lush gardens with two outdoor pools. The Epsom Terrace offers a range of local and continental cuisine, whilst the Courtyard is ideal for an al fresco lunch and the Chief’s Boma is perfect for a more authentic African ambience in the evening. And to relax after your long-haul flight, book a treatment at the hotel’s excellent spa. The 260 comfortably-furnished rooms are all air-conditioned, with en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, cable TV, safe and tea/coffee-maker.
Hazyview, Kruger – the three-star superior Hippo Hollow Country Estate (www.hippohollow.co.za) is beautifully located in the midst of lush riverine forest on the banks of the Sabie River, just a10-minute drive from the gate to the National Park. It has lovely, extensive gardens with sun-loungers and hammocks under the trees, two pools, a very cozy bar, an excellent restaurant with an open-air terrace overlooking the grounds and river where you can actually watch the hippos! The 109 rooms are in low-rise buildings or thatched chalets with garden views. Hotel rooms have TVs and are air-conditioned, with en-suite shower/wc, safe and tea/coffee-maker.
Dundee – the simple three-star Battlefields Country Lodge (www.battlefieldslodge.co.za) is situated near Dundee and lies in the heart of the battlefields in Kwazulu Natal. The lodge is nestled in a green valley overlooking rolling hills and the famous Talana Hill which is the site of the first battle between the Boers and British soldiers! The Lodge has a restaurant, an open-air pool and 50 rooms set in beautiful gardens.
Knysna – the three-star superior Knysna Hollow Country Estate (www.knysnahollow.co.za) is just a couple of minutes’ drive from Knysna. There is an excellent restaurant, with an extensive selection of wines and the convivial Rutland Arms pub. The 79 comfortable single-storey rooms are whitewashed and thatched and set around the spacious gardens, many overlooking the two swimming pools. All rooms have en-suite shower/wc, hairdryer, ceiling fan, TV, tea/coffee-maker and garden patio.
Winelands - the four-star Devon Valley Hotel (www.devonvalleyhotel.com) is a real find! This small award-winning boutique property is set in a quiet rural location on valley slopes a few miles from Stellenbosch. It offers breathtaking views, beautifully-tended gardens, a relaxing shady terrace, a comfortable bar with dark leather armchairs, fireplace and a wide selection of single Malt Whiskies! There's an open-air pool, a jacuzzi and, surprisingly, a petanque court! The main restaurant is known for its excellent market-fresh Cape cuisine, whilst the adjoining terrace is perfect for lazy lunches. The 50 rooms have air-conditioning, en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, satellite TV, safe and tea/coffee-maker.
Cape Town - the refurbished, four-star PH Victoria Junction Hotel (www.proteahotels.coml) is situated in the Greenpoint area, close to all major attractions and allows guests easy access to leading nearby restaurants, theatres and a world of shopping and entertainment at the renowned Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. There’s an open-air pool (narrow, but long!), a popular bar and lounge area and a restaurant. All 172 rooms are well-equipped and have air-conditioning, en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, iPod docking stations, free wireless internet, safe, tea/coffee-maker and city views.
Hazyview, Kruger – the three-star superior Hippo Hollow Country Estate (www.hippohollow.co.za) is beautifully located in the midst of lush riverine forest on the banks of the Sabie River, just a10-minute drive from the gate to the National Park. It has lovely, extensive gardens with sun-loungers and hammocks under the trees, two pools, a very cozy bar, an excellent restaurant with an open-air terrace overlooking the grounds and river where you can actually watch the hippos! The 109 rooms are in low-rise buildings or thatched chalets with garden views. Hotel rooms have TVs and are air-conditioned, with en-suite shower/wc, safe and tea/coffee-maker.
Dundee – the simple three-star Battlefields Country Lodge (www.battlefieldslodge.co.za) is situated near Dundee and lies in the heart of the battlefields in Kwazulu Natal. The lodge is nestled in a green valley overlooking rolling hills and the famous Talana Hill which is the site of the first battle between the Boers and British soldiers! The Lodge has a restaurant, an open-air pool and 50 rooms set in beautiful gardens.
Knysna – the three-star superior Knysna Hollow Country Estate (www.knysnahollow.co.za) is just a couple of minutes’ drive from Knysna. There is an excellent restaurant, with an extensive selection of wines and the convivial Rutland Arms pub. The 79 comfortable single-storey rooms are whitewashed and thatched and set around the spacious gardens, many overlooking the two swimming pools. All rooms have en-suite shower/wc, hairdryer, ceiling fan, TV, tea/coffee-maker and garden patio.
Winelands - the four-star Devon Valley Hotel (www.devonvalleyhotel.com) is a real find! This small award-winning boutique property is set in a quiet rural location on valley slopes a few miles from Stellenbosch. It offers breathtaking views, beautifully-tended gardens, a relaxing shady terrace, a comfortable bar with dark leather armchairs, fireplace and a wide selection of single Malt Whiskies! There's an open-air pool, a jacuzzi and, surprisingly, a petanque court! The main restaurant is known for its excellent market-fresh Cape cuisine, whilst the adjoining terrace is perfect for lazy lunches. The 50 rooms have air-conditioning, en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, satellite TV, safe and tea/coffee-maker.
Cape Town - the refurbished, four-star PH Victoria Junction Hotel (www.proteahotels.coml) is situated in the Greenpoint area, close to all major attractions and allows guests easy access to leading nearby restaurants, theatres and a world of shopping and entertainment at the renowned Victoria and Alfred Waterfront. There’s an open-air pool (narrow, but long!), a popular bar and lounge area and a restaurant. All 172 rooms are well-equipped and have air-conditioning, en-suite bathroom, hairdryer, flat-screen TV, iPod docking stations, free wireless internet, safe, tea/coffee-maker and city views.
| Departure date | Departing point | Departure UK | Arrive at Destination | Nights | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10-Jul-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2069.00 | please call |
| 24-Jul-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:00 | 09:20 | 15 | 1999.00 | book |
| 09-Sep-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:00 | 09:20 | 15 | 2299.00 | please call |
| 18-Sep-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:00 | 09:20 | 15 | 2299.00 | please call |
| 23-Sep-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:00 | 09:20 | 15 | 2369.00 | please call |
| 01-Oct-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:00 | 09:15 | 15 | 2429.00 | book |
| 02-Oct-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:00 | 09:15 | 15 | 2429.00 | book |
| 05-Oct-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:00 | 09:15 | 15 | 2429.00 | book |
| 07-Oct-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2429.00 | please call |
| 19-Oct-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:00 | 09:15 | 15 | 2499.00 | book |
| 23-Oct-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2499.00 | please call |
| 28-Oct-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2499.00 | book |
| 04-Nov-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2499.00 | please call |
| 11-Nov-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2449.00 | please call |
| 25-Nov-2013 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2429.00 | book |
| 08-Jan-2014 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2299.00 | please call |
| 22-Jan-2014 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2399.00 | please call |
| 29-Jan-2014 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2429.00 | please call |
| 10-Feb-2014 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2499.00 | please call |
| 17-Feb-2014 | Heathrow Airport | 21:05 | 10:35 | 15 | 2499.00 | book |
4 results
We have just returned from a wonderful trip to South Africa. This was our
first trip with Riviera Travel and we were really impressed with the
organisation and the content of our holiday. Mary and Colleen were a really
top class team - Mary with her immaculate organisation and Colleen with her
wide breadth of knowledge about African history, wildlife and the people.
Aug 2011
Mr J Fisher
Mr J Fisher
We are writing to express our appreciation for our South Africa tour manager Matt Locmelis. The whole tour was extremely good and so was Laurence with his extensive knowledge of the country. However, Matt is singled out because he was just terrific when we had a health scare. He dealt extremely efficiently with everything, from hospital to travel insurance, and he kept in touch with us, informing and reassuring us, during the whole problem period. He deserves high praise.
Jun 2011
Dr M S Campo
Dr M S Campo
We have just returned from our holiday in South Africa arranged by Riviera travel. The itinerary, hotels, travel arrangements and special adventures were well chosen and went as promised without a hitch. We have no hesitation in saying it has been the experience of a lifetime and we shall look forward to an opportunity to travel with Riviera again.
Feb 2011
DR Smith
DR Smith
I have just returned from your South African trip and wanted to say how very much my friend and I enjoyed it. Karen Holladay was our Tour Manager and she was excellent - very knowledgeable and helpful and it was all organised superbly - nothing was too much trouble for Karen and she obviously loves Africa. The local South African guide Richard and the two drivers we had were also very good. Highlights were the safaris, bush walk and also the visit to the Township in Cape Town but there was so much on the tour that it is difficult to pick out any one thing. I would definitely use your company again for a tour so well done! Jane Van Goethem
Jan 2011
Jane Van Goethem
Jane Van Goethem
4 results
