Classic South Africa Safari
History, culture, wildlife and the world's largest waterfall await travellers embarking on this 10-day safari, an itinerary that takes in everything from game drives in search of the Big Five to a tour of Robben Island, where the legendary Nelson Mandela spent 18 years as a political prisoner. Taking in both natural wonders and key cultural sites, this safari is a wonderful way to experience some of the most instantly recognisable symbols of southern Africa. Beginning in Sabi Sands Game Reserve – one of the best places in South Africa to observe wild game – you’ll spend a handful of days embarking on game drives and bush walks alongside expert guides, as you search for the Big Five – lions, leopards, elephants, black rhino and Cape buffalo – as well as a vast array of other wildlife. Further north, the majesty of Victoria Falls is sure to take your breath away, and as your safari winds down you’ll have the chance to explore the famous coastal city of Cape Town, scale Table Mountain and drink in the culture of the surrounding area.
What to expect?
Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Enjoy morning and afternoon game drives inside Sabi Sands, home to a wealth of iconic African wildlife. The oldest and most established of Kruger’s private game reserves, Sabi Sands sits adjacent to Kruger National Park on its western border and, with no boundary fences, the wildlife is free to roam between the reserve and the park. Sabi Sands is home to over 140 species of mammal, 500 species of bird and countless reptiles, insects and amphibians; it is also renowned as one of the best places in Africa to see wild leopards. Named after the rivers that dissect the reserve into four quarters, many would say it is the experience of staying in some of South Africa’s most revered lodges, combined with high concentrations of game thanks to the proliferation of natural water sources, that embodies the Sabi Sands experience.
Victoria Falls
Known also by its indigenous name, Mosi-oa-Tunya ("the smoke that thunders"), Victoria Falls is classified as the largest waterfall in the world, with a width of 1.25 miles. A visit to this natural wonder is sure to be a highlight of anyone's safari in southern Africa, and the area is also a hub for water- and land-based activities. You'll be able to experience the Falls by land, water and air, with helicopter flights available. Alternative activities include white-water rafting, a visit to the surrounding Victoria Falls national Park and a sunset cruise, to name but a few! Most activities can be booked upon arrival, however it is advised to book helicopter flights in advance.
Robben Island Tour
Your guide will be a former inmate of the infamous Robben Island Prison, who will not only tell you about the history of the island but also about their own personal experiences here. This is at once a harrowing, inspiring and very informative way of understanding more about South Africa under apartheid. Your tour takes you through the communal areas and you will also see the tiny cells of B-Section, where Nelson Mandela spent the majority of his 18-year incarceration.
What to expect from a trip to South Africa
Why book this trip?
- Spot big game in Sabi Sands, a private game reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park.
- Gaze in awe at the world’s largest waterfall, Victoria Falls.
- Explore South Africa's vibrant and second-largest city, Cape Town.
- Take a tour of Robben Island, where former South African president Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years during apartheid.
- Watch waddling penguins at Boulder's Beach, home to a colony of about 3,000 birds.
- Take in breathtaking vistas from atop Table Mountain.
Accommodation Highlights
Kensington Place
Kensington Place is a trendy boutique Hotel situated in a quiet, leafy suburb of Cape Town on the slopes of Table Mountain, close to the hotspots yet perfectly removed. An ideal hotel from where to commence or finish your South African holiday. Each of the 8 suites is individually decorated with art works from mostly South African artists.
Victoria Falls Hotel
Originally built in 1904, the Victoria Falls Hotel has been recently refurbished to become something of legend. Exuding a historical ambience and capturing the romance of the original African wildlife safari, it provides world class service just a 10 minute walk, down a private pathway, from the magnificent Falls themselves.