Take an early evening flight from London Heathrow and wake up the next morning in Johannesburg.
Sabi Sands
From Johannesburg’s international airport you’ll take a short flight to Mpumalanga where you’ll be transferred to your lodge at Sabi Sands Game Reserve. The reserve shares an unfenced border with the celebrated Kruger National Park – one of the most game-rich parks in the whole of Africa.
From the comfort and safety of purpose-built vehicles you’ll have close up views – and take marvellous photographs – of big game including elephants, buffalo, hippos, rhino, lions, cheetah and crocodiles. The Sabi Sands region is also rated as one of the best places on Earth to observe leopards in their natural habitat. The birding opportunities are equally impressive, with over 450 different species to spot.
Activities at Dulini include twice daily game drives and bush walks led by highly trained rangers and Shangaan trackers. As well as wildlife, your expert guide will let you in on the secrets of the bush, such as the medicinal uses of certain plants and shrubs. Thanks to the vehicle limits in place, you can be sure of an exclusive game viewing experience. After a day’s adventure, retreat to the comfort of your lodge with its plunge pools and canopy of ebony trees.
Stay: Three nights in a suite at Dulini Private Game Lodge – full board
Franschhoek
You now exchange the wildlife of South Africa for the picturesque scenery and serenity of its Winelands. You will board an afternoon flight to Cape Town, from where you will be transferred to your accommodation in the glorious Drakenstein Valley. The elegant hotel is housed within a graceful Cape Dutch building and set on one of the oldest farms in the Winelands, dating all the way back to the 17th century.
You will find yourself surrounded by a picture-perfect region of working vineyards, handsome estates, art galleries and world-class cuisine. As well as wine tastings, cellar tours and sampling the gastronomic delights of the resident chefs, you can spend your time here by canoeing, fishing, hiking and cycling, as well as exploring the property’s eight acres of beautifully manicured gardens.
Stay: Two nights in a one bedroom suite at Babylonstoren Farm Hotel – bed & breakfast
Cape Town
On day eight you will say goodbye to the Winelands and be driven to Cape Town, where you will be staying in a polished hotel superbly situated just across from the buzzing V&A Waterfront. In Cape Town, glamorous hotels, world-class dining and astounding vistas merge seamlessly with dynamic suburbs and a vibrant nightlife. Malay and African heritage is evident in the cuisine, traditions and entertainment while the architecture reveals a strong Dutch, German and English flavour and style.
You can take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain to access panoramic views over the city and harbour. For history enthusiasts, add in a visit to the Cultural History Museum and the old prison cells at Robben Island. The Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, one of the most picturesque spots in the city, is always worth a visit, whilst the V&A waterfront allures with its entertainment and shopping possibilities.
Stay: Three nights in a luxury room at Cape Grace – bed & breakfast
Mauritius
After packing in wonderful wildlife, dramatic scenery and fine wines, your trip concludes on the idyllic island of Mauritius. Defined by its white-sanded beaches, azure Indian Ocean waters and swaying palm trees, this is one of the finest places to end a holiday in South Africa. You will be staying at The Oberoi, an uber-luxurious resort located on the shores of Turtle Bay – a marine park with a vibrant coral reef.
From your hotel, you will have access to a string of combed, sparkling beaches and views of sensational sunsets at the close of each day. For the active-type, The Oberoi offers a wide range of activities such as windsurfing, water skiing, sailing, scuba diving and even deep-sea fishing.
Stay: Five nights in a luxury pavilion at the Oberoi – bed & breakfast
Mauritius – London
Today you will be transferred back to the airport in time to catch your flight to London. You will arrive in the morning the following day.
Nabila has been outstanding. This was a surprise trip for my wife - who does all the holiday planning normally. Nabila listened to my requirements and held my hand every step of the way. Thank you.
- RP, Argentina, 2014
