South African Tour - April 2017

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South African Tour - April 2017

Cape Town - Franschhoek - Oudtshoorn - Knysna - Port Elizabeth - Kariega Private Game Reserve
12 Days / 11 Nights
Date of Issue: 30 August 2016
24 April 2017 - 05 May 2017

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International Flights

South African Airways

Depart Heathrow 23rd April 21:00 - Arrive Johannesburg 24th April 09:00

Depart Johannesburg 24th April 11:30 – Arrive Cape Town 24th April 13:15

Depart Johannesburg 5th May 20:35 – Arrive Heathrow 6th May 06:55

Overview

Accommodation / Destination / Arr. / Dep. / Nights / Basis
Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel / Cape Town / 24 Apr / 27 Apr / 3 / D, B&B
Protea Hotel Franschhoek / Franschhoek / 27 Apr / 28 Apr / 1 / D, B&B
Protea Hotel Riempie Estate / Oudtshoorn / 28 Apr / 29 Apr / 1 / D, B&B
Knysna Hollow Country Estate / Knysna / 29 Apr / 2 May / 3 / D, B&B
City Lodge Port Elizabeth / Port Elizabeth / 2 May / 3 May / 1 / D, B&B
Kariega Main Lodge / Kariega Private Game Reserve / 3 May / 5 May / 2 / FB

Key
RO: Room only
SC: Self Catering
HB: Half Board
B&B: Bed and breakfast
D, B&B: Dinner, bed and breakfast
FB: Dinner, bed, breakfast and lunch
FB+: Dinner, bed, breakfast, lunch and activities daily
FI: Fully inclusive

Day 1: Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel, Cape Town (Mon,24April)

South Africa

This vast country is undoubtedly one of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth. Fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', South Africa has 11 official languages and its multicultural inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of African, Asian and European cultures. Spend your days: discovering the gourmet restaurants, impressive art and nightlife scenes and fine beaches of Cape Town; enjoying a typical local braai (barbecue) in the Soweto township; browsing the bustling Indian markets in Durban; or sampling some of the world’s finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotted around the picturesque Cape Winelands. Due to its rich and turbulent history there are plenty of historical attractions to explore including the Zululand battlefields of KwaZulu-Natal, the Apartheid Museum in Johannesburg and Robben Island, just off the coast of Cape Town. Above all else, South Africa’s attraction lies in its remarkably untamed wilderness with its astonishing range of wildlife roaming freely across massive unfenced game reserves such as the world famous Kruger National Park. With all of this variety on offer, it is little wonder that South Africa has fast become Africa’s most popular tourist destination.

Cape Town

Resting at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean, sandwiched between the slopes of the iconic Table Mountain and the glistening sapphire waters of Table Bay, the exceptionally scenic city of Cape Town is in a class of its own. Some cities boast rich culture, vibrant nightlife, a cosmopolitan atmosphere and extraordinary architecture, while others boast breathtaking landscapes and extraordinary natural wonders. Cape Town, is lucky enough to be blessed with all of these attractions and so much more. With its bustling harbour, world-class beaches, top-notch vineyards, and its mountainous surroundings brimming with diverse flora and fauna, Cape Town consistently captivates the hearts of all who visit.

Guided Transfer

Date / Pick Up / Drop Off / Vehicle
24 Apr / Cape Town International Airport [CPT] / Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel / Transfer

Overnight: Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel

Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel is a four star hotel set right in the heart of Cape Town’s historical city centre, nestling in the shadow of Table Mountain.

It is the ideal base from which to explore Cape Town with it's gracious 18th century buildings, art galleries and museums which rub shoulders with bohemian open-air markets and musicians in quaint city squares.

56 Guest Rooms offer stylish, serene accommodation with the finest modern amenities.

Cape Town Hollow’s restaurant, Eighty-Ate, offers a relaxed and modern dining experience overlooking the Company Gardens and out towards the iconic Table Mountain. This space is complemented by the natural light that floods through the full length folding doors highlighting the natural wooden furniture and enhancing the fresh uncluttered space.
Here, the Culinary Team create dishes ranging from light bites and comfort food through to more specialised dishes, accompanied by world-class hand-picked Cape Wines and Craft Beers, catering to every palate.

Cape Town Hollow is ideally situated close to trendy downtown restaurants, the V&A Waterfront as well as Camps Bay beaches and the Table Mountain Cableway

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 2: Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel, Cape Town (Tue,25April)

Activities

Cape Point Tour Full Day

Highlights of a trip down to Cape Point include; one of the world’s most spectacular drives, Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak, Noordhoek Beach, the Cape Point Nature Reserve, two lighthouses on the tip of Africa, Boulders Penguin Colony, Simonstown, Kalk Bay and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 3: Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel, Cape Town (Wed,26April)

Activities

Robben Island
Cape Town Township Tour Half Day

Robben Island

An icon of struggle, freedom and hope made famous by Nelson Mandela's imprisonment here.

Cape Town Township Tour Half Day

There is no better way to experience a culture than to experience how people live their day to day lives. Cape Town is a melting pot and consequently there are many cultures on offer with the two predominant ones being the BoKaap and the townships of the Cape Flats. The Bo-Kaap, previously known as the “Malay Quarter” is the remnants of Cape Town first freed Malay Slave community and the Townships are where the majority of Cape Town’s black population live. During the tour you will interact with locals, visit a Shebeen, as the once illegal pubs are known, get a chance to see some local arts and crafts and visit a Sangoma (traditional healer).

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 4: Protea Hotel Franschhoek, Franschhoek(Thu,27April)

Franschhoek

Idyllically situated in the Cape Winelands, this peaceful country retreat is one of the oldest towns in South Africa. The once sleepy little village was named Franschhoek, meaning “French Corner” as it was founded by French Huguenots who fled Europe and were seeking a secluded hide-out. They found it in the fertile valley of Franschhoekand this heritage is showcased at the fascinating Huguenot Memorial Museum. The Cape Dutch architecture in much of the village remains remarkably well preserved as restrictions have been placed on the extent of renovations and new construction in order to preserve the spirit of the original settlers. The town’s proximity to Cape Town allows for pleasant day trips during which visitors can explore the area’s many world-class wine estates and impressive range of excellent restaurants or simply browse the quaint, upmarket boutiques strewn along the town’s lovely tree-lined avenues.

Activities

Cape Winelands Half Day Tour

From Cape Town make your way out into the picturesque winelands visiting South Africa’s most famous wine regions – Paarl, Franschoek and Stellenbosch. Aside from the excellent wines the area is renowned for its food and is steeped in history such as the Taal monument, various museums and the contribution of the French Huguenots. There are also many attractions you wouldn’t expect to find on a wine route, from butterflies to cheetahs and pretty much everything in between.

Guided Transfer

Date / Pick Up / Drop Off / Vehicle
27 Apr / Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel / Protea Hotel Franschhoek / Transfer

Overnight: Protea Hotel Franschhoek

Charming 4-star hotel overlooks the mountains and vineyards of the historic village of Franschhoek, near art galleries and wine estates about 80 km east of Cape Town. Enjoy comfortable rooms, a renowned restaurant and a sparkling swimming pool. Discover a location overlooking the majestic mountains and famous vineyards of the historical village of Franschhoek, about 80 km east of Cape Town. The hotel prides itself on its charming ambience, gracious style and attentive service. This 4-star property has a rich history, with one section dating back to the 1880s. The town itself takes its name from the French Huguenots who settled in the area in the early 1680s after fleeing from their home country. Our convenient location is a superb base from which to explore Franschhoek's culinary establishments, art galleries, cheese factories and some 25 world-famous wine estates. The hotel boasts a renowned restaurant, conference facilities, luxury accommodations and a sparkling swimming pool. Outdoor activities such as horse-riding, golf, backpacking and trout-fishing can also be arranged.

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 5: Protea Hotel Riempie Estate, Oudtshoorn (Fri,28April)

Oudtshoorn

Oudtshoorn is famous for its ostriches and the magnificent Cango Caves. Located along the renowned Route 62, which takes motorists past one awe-inspiring sight after another, Oudtshoorn is known as the Ostrich Capital of the World: these huge birds are almost as common as people in this charming town. Other than ostriches and the wonderful feathers and meat they provide, the Oudtshoorn area also boasts the spectacular Cango Caves; the largest show cave system in Africa, permeated with sparkling stalactites and stalagmites and captivating rock formations.

Guided Transfer

Date / Pick Up / Drop Off / Vehicle
28 Apr / Protea Hotel Franschhoek / Protea Hotel Riempie Estate / Transfer

Overnight: Protea Hotel Riempie Estate

Meet Protea: Africa’s top hotel company joins the Marriott family of brands. Combining country charm with Protea Hotel’s superior standards, this hotel is situated in a farm-like setting with well-appointed thatched rondawels and is only 20 minutes away from the Cango Caves. Enjoy the best Oudtshoorn has to offer from the comfort of Protea Hotel Riempie Estate—a cozy country atmosphere in a tranquil setting. The hotel is close to the exotic crocodile and ostrich farms the town is famous for and a short drive from the town’s central business district. It’s a hotel that complements your travel style. The hotel offers an excellent restaurant that serves the best in country fare and guests can keep their heart rates up with golf, tennis, squash, gym and lawn bowling amenities nearby, plus we have state-of-the-art conference facilities for our business and corporate guests.

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 6: Knysna Hollow Country Estate, Knysna(Sat,29April)

Knysna

Nestled between the imposing Outeniqua Mountains and the Indian Ocean and surrounded by world-renowned forests, Knysna offers a wealth of activities for visitors. The beautiful lagoon and more than eight beaches provide opportunities to swim, surf, canoe, yacht, jet-ski, boat, fish, walk on soft sand and take ferry rides. Various markets offer organic goods, delicious food, indigenous plants and a social atmosphere. Mountains, valleys, lakes, forests and streams are ready to be explored. The region isn’t known as the “Garden of Eden” for nothing! A birding route is available for avid bird watchers. World class golf courses are at your doorstep. And of course the area is famous for the Knysna Heads and delicious oysters.

Activities

Highgate Ostrich Show Farm

Highgate Ostrich Show Farm is the original show farm in the ostrich capital of the world!

Guided Transfer

Date / Pick Up / Drop Off / Vehicle
29 Apr / Protea Hotel Riempie Estate / Knysna Hollow Country Estate / Transfer

Overnight: Knysna Hollow Country Estate View iBrochure

Beautifully set on a secluded old country estate near Knysna's famous lagoon, Knysna Hollow is focused around a gracious old manor house surrounded by timeless oak and pecan trees. Built in a bygone era, the manor house is finished with pressed ceilings, yellowwood floors and exquisite indigenous furniture. Accommodation consists of 15 Superior Garden Chalets and 64 Garden Rooms, tastefully decorated in a fresh, Knysna forest feel. Visitors can enjoy a superb a la carte restaurant, cosy pub with local Mitchell's brew and a warm welcome with friendly service.

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 7: Knysna Hollow Country Estate, Knysna(Sun,30April)

Activities

Featherbed Nature Reserve

Featherbed is a privately-owned, registered Nature Reserve and a South African Heritage Site, No.59. It is a pristine piece of paradise situated on the Western Head of Knysna and is accessible by ferry only. In order to protect the splendour of the natural beauty, access to the Reserve is controlled. Numbers are limited and visits are only permitted in the company of the Reserve's specialist guides.

This 4-hour excursion departs daily and reservations are essential. It is a wonderful outing for all ages and fitness levels. Good walking shoes are recommended and remember to bring your camera, hats, and sunblock in summer and a warm jacket for the ferry trip in winter. The nature reserve offers Knysna adventure activities not to be missed. A perfect outdoor family holiday activity to be enjoyed by both young and old.

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 8: Knysna Hollow Country Estate, Knysna(Mon,1May)

Activities

Knysna Elephant Park

Many years before hunting, deforestation and development took their toll on the environment, the Knysna indigenous forests were home to free roaming herds of elephant. Unfortunately it is unlikely that you will meet one of these gentle giants in the forest, but today you can still enjoy their company at the Knysna Elephant Park.

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 9: City Lodge Port Elizabeth, Port Elizabeth (Tue,2May)

Port Elizabeth

Port Elizabeth or PE is known as the Friendly City and the Windy City and hopefully if you stay here you will get a chance to experience the former and not the latter. Port Elizabeth was established to accommodate British settlers who were bought out on a government sponsored programme to provide a buffer between the warring Cape Dutch and the Xhosa. The little port grew from there and today it is the gateway to the Garden Route, as well as the Eastern Cape’s game reserves and beaches.

Guided Transfer

Date / Pick Up / Drop Off / Vehicle
02 May / Knysna Hollow Country Estate / City Lodge Port Elizabeth / Transfer

Overnight: City Lodge Port Elizabeth

It is situated across the road from Humewood Beach, within walking distance of many restaurants, 500 m from the Oceanarium and Boardwalk casino and entertainment area. The hotel is 8 minutes from Port Elizabeth’s CBD and 10 minutes drive from the Port Elizabeth Airport. The Port Elizabeth City Lodge hotel has 147 rooms. The hotel has a swimming pool for those hot summer days as well as a fitness room and a small meeting room for guest use.

Included

Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

Day 10: Kariega Main Lodge, Kariega Private Game Reserve (Wed,3May)

Kariega Private Game Reserve

As a family owned and operated private game reserve, Kariega Game Reserve offers a warm and friendly environment where guests can experience a real connection with all that Africa has to offer, including its rich culture. Local cuisine, traditional braaivleis (barbeque), and outdoor dining in the African boma are all part of the authentic African journey at Kariega.

Of course, your African safari would not be complete without the big game experience offered at Kariega. Comprising 10,000 hectares of rich biodiversity and lush landscapes, Kariega is a malaria-free safari destination home to the Big 5 (lion, elephant, rhino, buffalo, cape leopard) and much more. Twice daily game viewing from open game vehicles is the center of your safari experience but other safari activities on offer include walking safaris, river cruises, canoeing and fishing. Also available is a tranquil health spa, and a well-equipped gym.

Guided Transfer

Date / Pick Up / Drop Off / Vehicle
03 May / City Lodge Port Elizabeth / Kariega Main Lodge / Transfer

Overnight: Kariega Main Lodge View iBrochure

Kariega Main Lodge is nestled in the thickets and bushveld of the Eastern Cape landscape and offers guests panoramic vistas of the green river valley below. This authentic safari lodge is the ideal location from which to enjoy your African safari at Kariega which includes twice daily game drives on the private reserve, experiencing close up viewing of lion, elephant, rhino and other big 5 African game. Kariega Main Lodge is comprised of 21 log chalets, a vibrant restaurant, bar and living area as well as a pool, curio shop, gym and health spa.