South Africa | Kwazulu-Natal and Western Cape
Overflowing with cultural and natural wonders, South Africa truly is a ‘Rainbow Nation' and this remarkable journey takes us from the tribal heartlands of the Free State and KwaZulu Natal, to the beautiful landscapes and historic towns of the Garden Route and winelands of the Southern Cape.
| Duration: | 15 Days |
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| Tour Code: | ITW618 |
| Trip Style: | Moderate - 3 star |
| Departure Dates: | 31 Mar 2012, 28 Jul 2012 |
| Price: | From $5,100 |
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| Highlights: |
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Ideal for Solo Travellers
This small group adventure holiday is ideal for single travellers, as it allows you to meet and travel with other like-minded people. They are also extremely flexible, and allow plenty of free time for personal exploration. Travelling in a small group is also much safer then travelling alone - the additional security of travelling with an organised group with a tour leader should not be under-estimated. The ratio between solo travellers and couples (whether partners or friends) is generally 50/50, so don't worry, you won't be the only person travelling solo in the group. Generally the split between women and men travelling solo on our holidays is 60/40 so you won't feel outnumbered. There is a great mix of people of all ages on our tours, ranging from 25 to 65+.
As all rooming on tour is based on adults of the same sex sharing, you won't have to pay a compulsory single supplement. However, please note that if you do want your own room, that option is not available on this tour.
Trip Details
GROUP SIZE: Approx 12 to 16
Day 1. Join tour Johannesburg
Tour commences in Johannesburg.
Day 2. Drive from Johannesburg to Golden Gate National Park
With the group flight from London arriving this morning there will be an opportunity to freshen up, before departing Johannesburg and heading towards the Golden Gate National Park, spectacularly located amongst the mountain landscapes of the Free State.
Nestling amongst the foothills of the Maluti Mountains, the park presents us with a truly inspiring landscape of sandstone cliffs and expansive vistas that lie in the heart of the
Afirkaner homelands. Covering nearly 12,000 hectares it is home to black wildebeest, eland, oribi and Burchell's zebra and its golden hued escarpments provide a haven for the rare bearded vulture (lammergeier) and bald ibis. Travelling via the town of Bethlehem we will arrive in the park later today and settle into our luxury highland retreat, set before the
backdrop of the spectacular mountain scenery.
2 nights Brandwag Hotel - A hotel situated in the heart of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park. The chalets are modern adnd spacious with all facilities and provide wonderful views of the Maluti Mountains and sandstone formations. (included meals: B, D)
Day 3. In Golden Gate National Park
Today we have an opportunity to enjoy this glorious setting in all its majesty, as we spend the day exploring the park. There are a number of trails that lead through the sandstone escarpment, affording us some magical views across the grasslands and forests towards the mountains beyond. Golden Gate is the only national park in the Free State and the only grasslands national park in the entire country. Much of its woodland is dominated by Oldwood trees (Leucosidea sericea), whose flaking bark, twisted trunks and silver-haired leaves afford them the look of antiquity, but in fact provide a refuge and sustenance for some 117 different species of beetle alone.
The original inhabitants of the area were the Khoisan, the San Bushmen, who occupied these escarpments and grasslands prior to the arrival of the Basotho and the Europeans, and evidence of their tenure can still be seen in the ancient San paintings that cover some of the rock faces along the trails. Golden Gate is more renowned for its scenic beauty than its wildlife, but there is a chance that we may see some of its resident populations grazing amongst the open plains and the park is certainly blessed with many of Africa's antelope species. The birds we can be looking out for during our day include black storks, Cape vultures, Verreaux Eagles, Drakenberg Siskins and Rock Kestrels. (Included meals: B, D)
Day 4. Drive to Bergville; PM optional tour of Spion Kop
Heading east this morning we leave the Golden Gate National Park behind and head towards the immense majesty of the Drakensbergs (the Dragon Mountains). These are the highest ranges in southern Africa and the Zulu called them the ‘barrier of spears', a natural fortress of seemingly insurmountable rock that marked the eastern boundary of their land. We will pass over the Olivershoek Pass this morning, the border between the Free State and Kwazulu-Natal, and head down into the Karoo sandstone landscapes of the Zulu heartland. Our destination today is the small town of Bergville, close to famous site of the Boer battlefield of Spion Kop and this afternoon there is an option to visit the site of what was one of the bloodiest battles in the entire war.
The Boer War presented the British with their first real taste of guerrilla warfare, fighting a determined enemy adept at hit and run tactics and thoroughly at home amidst the landscapes of southern Africa. At its outset Kitchener had arrogantly dismissed the Boer threat, describing the up and coming campaign as a ‘teatime war'. In fact it went on to claim the lives of 22,000 British troops and prove the most costly campaign since the wars with Napoleon. It was only through sheer weight of numbers, a devastating scorched earth policy and the introduction of internment camps that the British finally broke the spirit of the Boers. Spion Kop was to prove probably the most humiliating, and certainly the most costly, battle the British fought. In a monumental example of poor planning, 1700 British troops managed to find themselves exposed on an open hilltop to the withering fire of a vastly outnumbered band of Boers. Over the course of the day the British lost 600 men and ended up retreating, leaving the hill that they had tried so desperately to hold to a collection of fewer than 350 Boers.
Overnight Sandford Park Country Park - Spacious and tastefully decorated, the Sandford Park provides upcountry cottage décor, traditional thatch roofs and the glorious vistas of the Drakensberg Mountains, all set within 41 hectares of private land and tranquil gardens. Established in 1852, its natural surroundings provide ample opportunities for hiking, mountain biking, bird watching and fishing, whilst the pool provides a chance to simply sit and relax and enjoy the surroundings. A cosy pub offers the perfect environment to reflect on the day's events. (included meals: B)
Day 5. Drive to Hlulwe; PM game drive
Our destination today is the magnificent Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, once the hunting grounds of the Zulu kings. This reserve has achieved remarkable success over the years, with an ambitious rhino conservation programme that has brought the rhino back from the brink of extinction. As a result it now supports the densest rhino population in Africa, with both black and white rhino in residence. It is also home to lion, cheetah, leopard, wild dog, crocodile and hippo and is a birdwatchers paradise, with over 300 species recorded here. Our base for the next two nights is the Hilltop Camp, located on the summit of a forested hill with some astonishing views out across the surrounding countryside. Set in the heart of Zululand's oldest game park, it is the perfect spot from which to explore a landscape that echoes to the calls of Africa in the raw. This afternoon we will enjoy our first game drive in the park.
2 nights Hilltop Camp - An award winning camp set amongst the forested hills of Kwazulu-Natal, this is in fact the oldest camp in the province and is run by KZN Wildlife, a conservation partnership that strives to combine sustainable ecotourism, with exceptional properties in some of the finest wilderness areas in South Africa. A forest trail leads up to an exclusive hide and waterhole, from where you can enjoy game viewing day and night. The site also includes a charming pub filled with memorabilia from Hluhluwe's fascinating history and an a la carte restaurant. (included meals: B, D)
Day 6. Game drives in Hluluwe
Established in 1895, the reserve covers some 96,000 hectares and contains an impressive diversity of flora and fauna. One unusual feature to the park is its hilly terrain, allowing
some great views out across the surrounding savannah and thick forests. This can aid game spotting no end and Hluhluwe is renowned as one of the best wildlife reserves in Natal. Larger mammals to be seen include buffalo, blue wildebeest, zebra, giraffe, elephant and large numbers of impala. The park is also home to sizeable populations of the rare nyala and, of course, the white and black rhinos. With such a rich concentration of game the predators are never far behind and lion, leopard, cheetah, hyena and jackal all reside here in healthy numbers.
We spend the day exploring the park's diverse habitats, from the woodlands to the north, where elephants roam and the forests hide the rare samango monkey, to the thornveld and grasslands to the south, which support large herds of kudu and waterbuck. Bird species include the rare bateleur eagle, the green coucal, southernbanded snake eagle and the rare African broadbill. The Hluhluwe River flood plain is also of the few areas in South Africa where it is possible to see yellow, pink and orangethroated long claws. (Included meals: B, D).
Day 7. Drive to Durban; PM free
Heading south we follow the subtropical shoreline of the ‘Dolphin Coast' today, towards the beautiful golden sands and indigenous forests of Kwazulu-Natal. This stunning area presents us with a rich and diverse landscape of sea, sand and lush forest that teems with birdlife. More than 250 different species of birds have been recorded in the area, with riverine forests, reed beds, coastal lowlands and subtropical woodland providing a staggering array of habitats for flycatchers, sunbirds, drongos, weavers and, of course, fish eagles. Our overnight stop will be located on the shoreline across from the main beach of Durban. This afternoon you may have the opportunity of visiting the Bird Park, or the Aquarium, taking a sunset boat trip from the marina, or sightseeing in the local area.
Overnight Beach House - Situated in the Umhlanga rocks area of the Durban coastline, this upmarket bed & breakfast provides comfortable suites with either sea views over the Indian Ocean, or pool facing rooms overlooking the tropical gardens. (included meals: B)
Day 8. Fly to Port Elizabeth; short city tour then transfer to Addo
Depending on our flight schedule to Port Elizabeth we may have more time to explore Durban this morning. Fly onto Port Elizabeth on the southern tip of the Eastern Cape, overlooking the waters of Algoa bay. On arrival we will take a brief tour of the city, taking in some of the history of the colonial settlers who arrived here in the 1820s. Then we turn our back on the Indian Ocean and head inland, journeying towards our accommodation close to the Addo Elephant Park to the north of the city. Set amongst the citrus and rose growing area of the Sunday River Valley we can relax and enjoy our surroundings beneath the dazzling blanket of an African night sky.
2 nights Kronenhoff Guest House - Located in the stunning Sundays River valley, the Kronenhoff Guest House is built in traditional Dutch Cape style. It provides spacious and stylish rooms, first class restaurant, pool and gardens. (included meals: B)
Day 9. AM visit to Addo Elephant Park; PM free
Elephant Park, home to over 450 elephants, as well as Cape buffalo, black rhino and the almost exclusive flightless dung beetle. The park covers some 164,000 hectares, but plans are in place to expand that to a staggering 360,000 ha that will encompass a marine reserve providing sanctuary to the world's largest breeding populations of Cape gannets and the second largest population of African penguins. The park currently boasts 5 of South Africa's 7 biomes and, aside from its famous elephants, it also includes habitats that provide a haven for leopard, lion, great white sharks and southern right whales, as well as a rich heritage of archaeological and historic sites. This afternoon has been left free to enjoy as you wish, perhaps relaxing by the hotel's pool, or alternatively with a visit to the Zuurberg Elephant Experience, where you interact with these magnificent animals at close quarters, feeding them and learning a little something about their habits and lives, a truly fascinating encounter with these giant mammals (optional). (Included meals: B)
Day 10. AM drive to Tsitsikama National Park; PM drive to Buffalo Hills safari camp
This morning we follow the coastline west, towards the majestic landscapes of the famous Garden Route and the beautiful setting of Tsitsikama National Park. Tsitsikamma is a marine and forest park, stretching for some 80 km, from a lagoon at Nature's Valley, to the mouth of the Groot River. The lush forest, delicate fynbos and the sheer cliffs provide a superb backdrop to the suspension bridge spanning the mouth of Storms River. After lunch we continue to our camp in the Bitou Valley, overlooking the gorge and Knysna forests of the Buffalo Hills. Late this afternoon, having checked in, we will enjoy a game drive through the area, home to Cape buffalo, rhino, giraffe, kudu, eland and the elusive leopard. You may also spot porcupine, baboon and bush pig during our drive and as we return to camp with the setting sun we enjoy another African sunset and a delicious dinner, before an early night in readiness for our dawn walk tomorrow.
2 nights Buffalo Hills Safari Camp - Spectacularly located amongst the indigenous Knysna forests, these luxurious tents overlook the gorge and the surrounding landscapes from their private observation decks. With full en suite facilities, mosquito screens, superb spacious comforts and proper beds, they provide the ultimate in camping style. A traditional South African breakfast is served in the comfort of the colonial-style dining rooms, whilst dinner, designed around the traditional African braai, is served in the comforts of the South African influenced dining room. And what better way to enjoy an aperitif than around the Boma Fire. (included meals: B, D)
Day 11. Game walk and sightseeing in Knysna area
As the dawn light begins to pick out the rich colours of the African bush we head out on a walk through this remarkable landscape. Accompanied by an experienced guide, travelling on foot permits us the rare privilege of walking amongst wild animals in their natural environment, allowing us unparalleled sightings, whilst also learning a little more about the less obvious aspects of bushcraft, such as plant life and spoor identification. Returning for a hearty breakfast, we then head down the stunning scenic grandeur of the Garden Route, for a full day exploring the area around the Knysna Heads.
Sandwiched between the deep blue waters of the Indian Ocean and the misty heights of the Tsitsikamama Mountains, these spectacular vistas present some of the most scenically beautiful along the entire coast. The seas off this coast present rich feeding grounds for dolphins and whales and the waters closer to shore are also home to tiny sea horses that breed amongst the abundant currents. The craggy promontories of the Knysna Heads guard the narrow entrance to a lagoon that leads into the charming town of Knysna, these imposing rocks once feared by all but the most daring of sailors. After a full day we head back to the Buffalo Hills and pay a visit to a local distillery to try some distinctly exotic tipple, before finally returning to camp to enjoy the setting sun bathing the plains below in the golden glow of twilight. (Included meals: B, D).
Day 12. Drive to the Nuy Valley via George, Swellendam and the Karoo
Turning away from the Garden Route we head inland taking the R62 via the towns of George and Oudtshoorn enroute, and into the vast hinter lands of the Little Karoo. Our journey takes us between the Outeniqua and Swartberg Ranges of mountains, crossing high mountain passes, and taking in the rich landscapes and historic splendour of Ladismith, Barrydale and Montague. This is the Western Cape, probably one of the most scenically spectacular but also least ‘African of all South Africa's' captivating provinces, blanketed in farm land and littered with old Cape Dutch buildings. Our destination today lies at the foot of the Langeberg Mountains in one of the most beautiful valleys in the Cape Winelands, where we can enjoy traditional Afrikaner hospitality, great food and some of the locally produced wine that this region is famed for the world over.
Overnight Nuy Valley Guest Farm - A family owned estate with an enviable wine cellar, this beautiful property occupies a stunning part of the Cape Winelands. A working wine farm located along Route 62 (probably the longest wine route on the planet) it is an original Cape Dutch homestead, boasting stylishly appointed en suite rooms, some offering views of the picturesque valley landscapes beyond. The entire feel of the farm is one of homely ambience, ensuring a stay in keeping with the relaxed setting and traditional hospitality of the region. (included meals: B)
Day 13. Drive to Cape Town via Franschoek and the winelands
Driving through the Breede River Valley we head for the town of Worcester this morning, located in the heart of one of the Western cape's largest wine and fruit producing valleys. From here we continue onto the culinary capital of the Western Cape, Franschhoek, a town of Cape Dutch architecture that occupies a beautiful valley encircled on three sides by breathtaking mountains. Originally settled by French Huguenots during the latter years of the 17th century, this was part of a Dutch East India Company enterprise to colonise the Cape, driving out the indigenous Khoi and replacing them with white settlers who would cultivate the surrounding valleys and turn a profit for their investors.
We pause in Franschoek for a wine-tasting to sample the latest vintages of the region at Boschendal before continuing to Cape Town, one of the most vibrant and beautifully located cities on the planet, set before the iconic backdrop of Table Mountain. Founded by the Dutch East India Company in 1652 as a refuelling point along the trading routes between Europe and the spice rich lands to the east, Cape Town grew over the next century to become a thriving town. Over the intervening years it absorbed the cultural influences of the Dutch, French and British, as well as the freed Muslim slaves, who have all left their mark on this city in one form or another.
2 nights Winchester Mansions - This hotel is situated on Cape Town's platinum mile overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. This luxury hotel was built in the mid 1920s, designed by Sir Herbert Baker in traditional Dutch Cape style. It offers accommodation of stylish elegance coupled with with old world charm. Harvey's restaurant and bar, a heated swimming pool and the Gingko Health and Wellness Spa are all available for your entertainment and enjoyment. (included meals: B)
Day 14. Touring the Cape Peninsula
We spend the whole day enjoying a comprehensive sightseeing tour of some of the many highlights that the Cape Peninsula has to offer. We drive first to Hout Bay, an attractive fishing port once flanked by dense forest, where you can take a short optional boat trip out to nearby Seal Island, home to some 1000 Cape fur seals and guarded by the impressive ‘Sentinel', a towering mountain that dominates the harbour. One of the highlights of today's tour is a visit to the Cape of Good Hope, first seen by a European in 1488 when Diaz sailed round it on his search for a sea route to the East Indies. A century later Sir Francis Drake described it as ‘the fairest cape we saw in the whole circumference of the earth'. But it was another century before the Dutch East Indies Trading company established a permanent settlement to supply ships with The cattle and water traded from the indigenous Khoi herders.
We'll climb up to a viewpoint at Cape Point and watch the infamous clash of the warm Agulhas currents from the Indian Ocean with the cold Benguela current from the Atlantic, an experience that is truly awe inspiring from the safety of dry land, but which must have filled early mariners with nothing short of dread. We will also visit the African Penguin colony at Boulders Beach, just on the outskirts of Simon's Town. This is one of only two mainland colonies anywhere in the world for these amazing, and sadly endangered, creatures, commonly known as Jackass Penguins because of their donkey like braying. From here we return back to Cape Town for our final evening. (Included meals: B).
Day 15. Tour ends Cape Town
Tour ends today in Cape Town. (Included meals: B)
Other Sightseeing
The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date this dossier was originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations.
- BERGVILLE Visit to Spion Kop Battlefield approx ZAR300-350 depending on numbers.
- ZINKWAZI BEACH Lagoon cruise ZAR550, Bird watching ZAR60, Cultural and historical tour ZAR60.
- ADDO Visit to Zuurberg Elephant Experience ZAR720.
- SOWETO Township tour ZAR350.
- DURBAN Bird Park ZAR50, Aquarium ZAR250.
Inclusions
- 14 nights accommodation
- 14 breakfasts & 6 dinners
- Internal Travel
- Tour Leader, driver(s) and guides
What's Not Included
- tips
Terms & Conditions
Click here for our Terms & Conditions
For more information, availability and pricing and options, please contact our expert travel specialists at Inspired Travel Worldwide on (02) 9449 8598 or send us an email. We look forward to hearing from you.
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