Johannesburg, Kruger, Durban, and Cape Town

Discover South Africa – Safari Thrills & Cultural Treasures

Duration: 16 Days | 4 Cities | Culture, History, Nature & Safari

South Africa is a land of breathtaking contrasts—from wildlife-rich savannas and rugged coastlines to vibrant cities steeped in history. With 11 official languages and a fusion of African, European, and Indian influences, it’s a place where every region tells a story and every encounter leaves a mark.

On this 16-day immersive journey, you’ll explore the cultural heartbeat of Johannesburg, safari through the legendary Kruger National Park, unwind on Durban’s tropical shores, and experience the rich history and natural beauty of Cape Town. This adventure offers the perfect blend of education, relaxation, and unforgettable moments.

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Departure from the USA – Begin your journey with an overnight international flight to Johannesburg, South Africa. Tip: Be sure your luggage is checked all the way through to Johannesburg (JNB).

Day 2: Arrival in Johannesburg – Arrive and meet your guide. Transfer to your comfortable 4-star hotel in Sandton to rest and recover from your flight. South African Saying: “Have a lekker night’s sleep!” (“Lekker” means pleasant or good.)

Day 3: Johannesburg – History & Heritage – Visit key historical sites that tell the story of South Africa’s journey to freedom:

• Apartheid Museum
• Soweto & Regina Mundi Church
• Hector Pieterson Museum
• Mandela Family Home

Later, take a short flight to Nelspruit and enjoy a scenic drive along the Panorama Route to Graskop.
Overnight at a 4-star lodge.  Meals: Breakfast Includes: Entrance fees and guided tours.

Day 4: Graskop to Kruger National Park – Spend the morning exploring local shops in Graskop before heading to Kruger National Park. That evening, enjoy a thrilling night drive with expert safari guides.
Overnight at a 4-star safari lodge.  Includes: Park entrance and night safari.

Day 5: Kruger – Full-Day Safari & Bush Braai – Experience a full-day game drive across Kruger’s rich landscapes. Enjoy a traditional bush braai (BBQ) under the stars and a second night safari. Meals: Dinner
Overnight at the safari lodge.

Day 6: Kruger to Durban – Indian Ocean Vibes – Early game drive followed by travel to Durban via Nelspruit. Check into your 4-star beachfront hotel and enjoy a group dinner at a local Indian restaurant.
Meals: Dinner

Day 7: Durban – Art, Textiles & Culture – Visit the following cultural landmarks:

• Phansi Museum
• African Art Centre
• Conversation with a local textile artist
• Victoria Street Market
  Meals: Breakfast

Day 8: Midlands Meander – Craft & History

Take a day trip into the scenic Midlands Meander:

• Ubuhle Bead Farm
• Ardmore Ceramics Studio
• Mandela Capture Site Memorial
  Return to Durban in the evening.
  Meals: Breakfast

Day 9: Durban to Cape Town

Fly to Cape Town and settle into your 4-star guesthouse in Green Point.
Enjoy time to explore local cafés and shops at your own pace.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 10: Cape Town – Engage with Cape Town’s local communities:

• Visit township gardens and art centers
• Optional stop at Biscuit Mill or Elves at Work
• Enjoy dinner with marimba music
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 11: Cape Town – Robben Island, Cooking & Table Mountain

Explore Cape Town’s most iconic sites:

• Ferry to Robben Island
• Cape Malay cooking class in Bo-Kaap
• Cable car ride up Table Mountain
  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 12: Cape Town – Culinary & Craft Markets

Sample gourmet delights and browse art and boutique shops at two Cape Town markets.
Free afternoon for personal discovery.
Meals: Breakfast

Day 13: Cape Winelands – Wine Tasting & Historic Towns – Explore Stellenbosch and Franschhoek with wine tastings and a short walking tour. Return to Cape Town in the afternoon.  Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

Day 14: Cape Peninsula – Penguins, Cliffs & Ocean Views

One of the most scenic days of the trip:

• Drive Chapman’s Peak
• Visit Cape of Good Hope & Cape Point
• Walk among penguins at Boulders Beach
• Enjoy time in Simon’s Town and Kalk Bay
  Meals: Breakfast

Day 15: Free Day in Cape Town + Farewell Dinner

Spend the day at leisure.
In the evening, enjoy a spectacular farewell dinner at Gold Restaurant:

• 14-course African tasting menu
• Drum circle and live African performances
  Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 16: Departure

Transfer to Cape Town Airport for your return flight home via Johannesburg. Tip: Make sure your luggage is checked to your final destination. Meals: Breakfast

Inclusions

• International Airfare from New York, (JFK) or Washington Dulles (IAD) to Cape Town, South Africa on South African Airways. Need flights from your home city?  Let us know. 
• In-country flights between Johannesburg, Kruger, Durban, and Cape Town.
• Guided day tours and activities in Johannesburg, Durban, and Cape Town, as outlined in the itinerary.
• Kruger National Park safari experience at Satara Game Reserve.
• Cultural and culinary experiences, including a hands-on cooking class.
• Table Mountain visit (weather permitting).
• Wine country experience, including entrance fees, two wine tastings, a local guide, and a light lunch.
• Scenic coastal excursions, including visits to Boulders Beach Penguin Colony, Cape Point, and Hout Bay.
• Ground transportation to and from airports and during scheduled tours as specified in the itinerary.
• Accommodations in 3.5 to 4-star hotels and lodges throughout the journey.
• Meals as listed in the itinerary (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner).
• English-speaking professional tour guide throughout the trip.
• Gratuities for local guides and drivers in Johannesburg, Kruger, Durban, and Cape Town.

Exclusions

• Passport/Visa fees
• Any tours, entrance fees, and transfers not specifically listed under “Inclusions.”
• Meals not included in the itinerary (see daily Meal Key: B/L/D).
• Gratuities for hotel staff (bellmen, housekeeping) and restaurant service. Refer to the “Helpful Hints” document for tipping guidance.
• Beverages and gratuities not explicitly included.
• Personal expenses, including souvenirs, laundry, and additional activities not outlined in the itinerary.