Exclusive South African Safari Tour
26 April –ย 4 May 2025
- 26 April - 4 May 2025
- 8 Nights/ 9 days
- Weather 14 - 25 C
- Fitness - Med 5km per day
- Price Range - $$$
It's time for Africa!
Travelling to South Africa is an unforgettable experience, offering a diverse range of attractions. In Cape Town, you can explore the iconic Table Mountain and visit the historic Robben Island. The city’s rich cultural heritage and stunning coastal scenery make it a must-visit destination.
For wildlife enthusiasts, the Timbavati Game Reserve provides an incredible safari experience. Located in the Greater Kruger National Park, Timbavati is renowned for its abundant wildlife, including the Big Five. Visitors can embark on thrilling game drives and guided bush walks, immersing themselves in the natural beauty of the African bushveld.
Whether you’re captivated by urban charm or the allure of the wild, South Africa offers a captivating blend of experiences that will leave a lasting impression.
Oh the places we'll go ......
Welcome to Cape Town, a city of breathtaking beauty and rich cultural experiences. Cape Town is a place where natural wonders and urban sophistication meet. At the heart of the city stands the iconic Table Mountain, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, offering panoramic views and excellent hiking opportunities. The Cape of Good Hope, with its dramatic cliffs and stunning coastal vistas, is another must-see attraction.
Welcome to Constantia Valley, a picturesque paradise nestled in the heart of South Africa’s Cape Winelands. Kirstenbosch Gardens, a botanical wonderland at the eastern foot of Table Mountain, is a highlight of any visit to Constantia Valley. This world-renowned garden showcases an extraordinary diversity of flora, including indigenous South African plants and a captivating treetop canopy walkway offering breathtaking views.
Constantia Valley is celebrated for its prestigious winemaking heritage. The region’s historic vineyards, dating back to the 17th century, produce exceptional wines that have garnered international acclaim.
Welcome to the captivating Cape Peninsula, a treasure trove of natural wonders. One of the most beloved attractions on the Cape Peninsula is the charming colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach You’ll have the chance to observe and photograph these delightful birds, creating cherished memories of your encounter with these unique and beloved animals.
In addition to the penguin colony, the Cape Peninsula offers a wealth of other attractions, including the breathtaking Cape Point Nature Reserve, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge, and the iconic Cape of Good Hope, a place of myth and legend.
Robben Island holds great historical significance and is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in South Africa’s rich history. Robben Island, located in Table Bay, is renowned for its somber history as a place of imprisonment, particularly during the apartheid era. The island served as a political prison, where numerous anti-apartheid activists, including Nelson Mandela, were incarcerated. Our tours provide a poignant and insightful journey through this significant chapter of South Africa’s past, offering a deeper. understanding of the country’s struggle for freedom and equality.
Welcome to the Timbavati Game Reserve, an untamed paradise where the spirit of Africa comes alive. The Timbavati Game Reserve, situated within the Greater Kruger National Park, is celebrated for its abundant and diverse wildlife, including the famed Big Five โ lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes. Our tours provide an exclusive opportunity to embark on exhilarating game drives and guided bush walks, allowing you to witness these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat and gain a deeper understanding of the delicate ecosystems that sustain them.
Trip Highlights
- Cape Town City Tour
- Bo Kaap walking tour
- Explore Table Mountain
- Explore Urban City Bowl History
- Visit Kistenboch Gardens & Boomslang
- Wine tasting in Constantia
- Explore Boulders Beach to see these cute little penguins
- Picnic in Wild Peninsula
- Private Robben Island Tour
- Explore the ZEITZ MOCAA Art Museum
- 3 Night Safari Timbavati Game Reserve
- Game drives in open Safari Vehicle
- Guided bush walks in the African Wilderness
Book your Exclusive South African Safari Tour
Only 10 spots available and limited single rooms
- Twinshare โ $5145 AUD
- Single Room โ $5945 AUD
*FLIGHTS NOT INCLUDED
This tour has a $500 deposit and the remainder is due 75 prior to departure.
Enjoy guided travel with our Escorted Tours, fully led by a certified, English-speaking guide who will accompany you throughout the journey, sharing their extensive knowledge and passion for the destination.
For groups of eight or more, a Vibrant Women Travel Host will join the tour to provide additional support and ensure a seamless travel experience.
Inclusions
- 8 nights accommodation (5 nights Cape Town, 3 nights Timbavati Game Reserve)
- Airport transfers to and from Cape Town
- Airport transfers to and from Safari Camp
- 1 x Domestic flight (Cape Town to Hoedspruit)
- 8 Breakfasts, 8 Lunches and 4 Dinners
- Private English speaking guide present for tour itinerary
- All breakfasts and Lunches as per itinerary
- Entrance fees a stated in the itinerary
Exclusions
- International Airfare (Airfares to and from South Africa)
- Domestic flight fro Hoedspruit to Johannesburg on the 4th of May 2025
- Travel Insurance, (which is compulsory)
- Dinners while in Cape Town
- Drinks and alcohol purchases
- Tipping, we suggest $25 per person per day = $175 AUD and collect this at the beginning of the trip to be distributed amongst out drivers, hotel staff and guides
- Airport Transfers before the 27th October and after the 4th of November 2024
Itinerary
Arrive in Cape Town.ย Check in from 2pm.
Spend the afternoon unpacking, familiarise yourself with the hotel or have a swim in the pool. Free time to wander the local area, shop. Then its time for a sundowner before dinner.
*You can arrive anytime this day as there are no scheduled activities. It is common to arrive late at night that is why we have added this nights accommodation for you.
7pm Dinner (*Self pay)
Overnight stay at Harpers House | Luxury Guest House
Our morning begins early as we make our way up to the top of the Iconic Table Mountain which overlooks the dynamic city of Cape Town. We will explore Table Mountain the quickest and most direct route via return Cable Car. At the top weโll find a quiet spot to enjoy some light snacks while our guide shows us century-old photographs which bring Cape Townโs history to life.
Explore the City Centre on foot, visiting the flower sellersโ market on Adderley Street, the Grand Parade, Greenmarket Square, the City Hall โ where Nelson Mandela gave his 1st speech after being released from prison, company Gardens & St. Georges Cathedral while your Guide tells tales about the History of the Cape.
From here we make our way to the colourful Bo-Kaap area in the historic city center. Here we will spend time exploring the cobbled streets and spice markets to experience a lively suburb filled with brightly coloured houses from as early as the seventeenth century, Muslim saint shrines, and many beautiful Mosques
Stop off at a local restaurant, sidewalk cafรฉ or bustling food market for a delicious lunch with the locals before continuing on with your Urban Adventure.
Continue your day as a true local, by making your way to the bustling Sea Point Promenade for an active afternoon along this beautiful coastal promenade. You will have the option to cycle along the promenade on cruiser bicycles should you wish to.
Next, we’ll explore the Watershed’s quirky craft, design, and township art projects, geared towards community upliftment, before ending the day with a refreshing drink at a local hangout in the city!
Overnight stay at Harpers House or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today will offer an exciting experience of contrasts, from award winning botanical gardens to old historic wine estates and art gallery.
We will start our morning off with a visit to the Kirstenbosch Gardens, one of the world’s most scenic botanical gardens which is home to an incredible array of the Western Cape’s unique floral kingdom species. Kirstenbosch offers an incredible opportunity to immerse yourself on the slopes of the Table Mountain range.
Next, we will make our way into the Constantia Wine Valley for a wine tasting at Beau Constantia. Beau Constantia is a boutique wine farm situated very high up on the Constantia Mountains where meticulous attention to detail in the vineyard leads to distinctive handcrafted wines.
Our next stop is Constantia Glen Winery. Perched high on the upper reaches of the Constantiaberg in the oldest wine producing region of South Africa, lies the magnificent boutique wine estate, Constantia Glen. Acclaimed for bespoke wines and sweeping panoramic views, Constantia Glen is one of the gems of the Constantia Valley.
Continue your day with lunch at Bistro1682 at Steenberg Wine Estate.
After lunch, we visit the Norval Foundation for unique art and cultural experience. Norval is dedicated to the research, education, and exhibition of 20th- and 21st-century visual art from South Africa and beyond. Located in the Steenberg area of Cape Town, adjacent to Table Mountain National Park, the Norval Foundation combines the experience of art with an appreciation for nature.
End the day at one of our secret local spots with a view of the city and majestic mountains
Overnight stay at Harpers House or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
We will start the day by heading towards the Peninsula, stopping in the bohemian feel Kalk Bay for a coffee in one of our favourite bakeries/coffee shops. At Kalk Bay, we will walk through this very quaint old holiday town filled with antique shops, galleries, craftsmen, and vendors shouting as we go.
From here, we will drive along the coast towards Simonโs Town, where we will search for our own rogue penguins โ a splinter colony away from the crowded boardwalks over the main breeding site, on a beach known mostly to locals. We will take you on an educational and enlightening
penguin walk on the walkways bordering the penguin sanctuary.
Your guide will tell you more about the rich history surrounding this naval town, the museums and monuments provide plenty of insight into this historical harbour town.
We will then continue on to the Cape of Good Hope. In the Peninsula Reserve, we will enjoy a gentle hike/walk exploring secluded beaches, shipwrecks, and this regionโs unique wildlife while on the hunt for the Cape 5 (Ostrich, Baboons, Mountain Zebra, Bontebok and Tortoise).
Lunch will be a delicious Wild Picnic
We head out of the Peninsula to a local township community, Masiphumelele. Meet Mama Yandi and the amazing ladies that help her and learn all about her township upliftment project helping single mothers. Also, visit the amazing soup kitchen and garden project run by the Masi Creative Hub.
End the day with at one of our secret local spots with a view of the city and majestic mountains
Overnight stay at Harpers House or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
A day of historical significance, we will start our day with a trip to the iconic Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for much of his life before becoming South Africa’s first democratic president.
On arrival at the island, we will be met by an ex prisoner of the Island, who will take you on a private tour of the island and prison, bringing to life the history and significance of the area in shaping one of the worlds most revered leaders.
On return to mainland, we will stop for a bite to eat at a local restaurant in the city, before continuing our adventure into the colourful art world of South Africa, accompanied by a local art specialist.
We will start delving into the art world with a visit to the Zeitz Mocaa Art Gallery, the largest contemporary collection in Africa, where we will spend time gaining insight into this fascinating building and collection of works.
End the day with early evening sundowners and beautiful views.
Overnight stay at Harpers House or similar
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we leave Cape Town for the Wilderness and 3 Nights at Timbavati Game Reserve. All fences between its famous neighbour, Kruger National Park, have been removed so the game can freely roam across this vast wilderness area. Itโs home to the Big 5, a huge variety of antelope and plains animals, predators, reptiles, amphibians, invertebrates and over 500 bird species on a 10,000-hectare diverse and scenic traversing area. Unhurried, uncrowded and unscheduled, Bateleur offers a unique, personalised safari experience.
Lunch will be served soon after arrival, followed by time to relax and unwind before you enjoy your first guided game activity.
When guests have returned from their guided activities, dinner will be served in the dining area overlooking the riverbed and the seasonal waterhole.
After dinner, relax around the fire and soak up the sounds of the African bush and wildlife all around you. And then sleep safe and secure in spacious comfort in your large safari unit.
Overnight Stay at Bateleur Safari Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch Dinner
In the mornings we set off at first light after a snack of biscuits or rusks and coffee or tea.
Enjoying the brisk air from the open safari vehicles you may choose to go in search of the plains game, herds of buffalo and elephant, the endangered black & white rhinos, the spectacular big cats, and the packs of wild dogs that frequent the area. The ranger will impart his/her extensive knowledge of the wildlife and birds and you may even be lucky enough to come across a kill that took place during the hours of darkness. Or you may choose to do a guided bush walk, either departing directly from camp or using a vehicle to head further out and find some interesting tracks to follow. The ranger will decipher the tracks and signs left by the passing animals during the night. The thrill of walking, tracking and getting up close to some of the creatures of the bush is an unforgettable experience. During the walks there is a lot of emphasis on all the interesting things seen including animals, trees, plants, insects and birds.
Breakfast is enjoyed back at the safari camp and then there is time to unwind and siesta during the heat of the day, making use of the swimming pool and central relaxation area or your comfortable safari unit. On one of the days you will be treated to very informative instruction relating to bushcraft survival skills. And a light lunch will be offered in the central dining area before itโs time to head out amongst the wildlife again.
In the afternoons we set off after the main heat of the day when the animals become more active, following a similar procedure to the morning guided activities for the remaining hours of daylight.
Close to sunset we stop at a scenic location where weโll have sun downers while enjoying a stunning African sunset. We then climb aboard the open safari vehicles and go in search of the nocturnal creatures โ as the diurnal animals and birds anxiously get ready for bed, the stage and sounds change and a whole new world awakens.
Back at the safari camp a hearty supper will be served at the central dining area with the sounds of the African bush all around. After pudding, a warm campfire will be waiting for you where stories are exchanged and guided activities are discussed for the following day. After a long day in the bush there is nothing more rewarding than to lie in your comfortable bed and listen to the sounds of the night under a blanket of overwhelming African stars!
Overnight stay at Bateleur Safari Camp
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Set off at first light for your final guided game activity โ appreciating the typical scents and sounds of the bush youโll realise how much youโve learned already!
After breakfast back at the safari camp itโs time to pack up and say our reluctant goodbyes.
Whatever you have seen and done you will have had an up close and personal experience of the real African bush and wildlife! And a whole new world of experiences awaits for your next visit.
Today you will be returned to Hoedspruit East Gate Airport where you will have arranged your flight to take you home.
Meals: Breakfast
Accommodation
Cape Town
Harper’s House | Luxury Guest House
Dating back to 1892 Harpers House is an 8 bedroom luxury guest house with a storied history. Nestled in the idyllic neighbourhood of Green Point it is a blue beacon of romance and understated elegance. Theย spacious rooms are an eclectic mix of Victorian design with an African influence.
Step away from the hustle and be ensconced in effortless opulence.
We have exclusive use of Harpers House just for our group! But it means we can only take a small group of only 10 women – 4 x single and 6 x twinshare spots are available.
Timbavati Game Reserve
Bateleur Safari Camp is located in South Africa’s world renowned Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, an exceptional safari location. All artificial barriers between the Timbavati and the adjacent Kruger National Park have been removed and Bateleur Safari Camp itself shares unfenced borders with Kruger, allowing free animal movement.ย
Each camp unit is thatched with ensuite, mosquito screens and deck. There is a central area with dining, deck and lounge overlooking a dry riverbed and swimming pool. We have exclusive use of Bateleur Safari Camp just for our group! But it means we can only take a small group of only 10 women – 4 x single and 6 x twinshare spots are available.
The African Wilderness Experience
Open Safari Vehicles
Traditional guided game drives are conducted in open safari vehicles. This gives guests the opportunity to get closer to the animals for photographic purposes. After sundowners and once it starts to get dark, a spotlight is used to search for nocturnal creatures.ย
Guided Bush Walks
The guided bush walks are led by qualified and armed rangers. Every walk is its own adventure, with the emphasis on information relating to all the wonders of nature, big and small. The walks provide guests with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the world of South Africa’s wildlife
Bush Craft & Survival
Weather permitting, guests are treated to a hands-on, interactive demonstration on bushcraft and survival. This includes lighting fires, making ropes and water containers as well as setting snares. The skills are taught making use of items found in the bush. This is not widely offered by other game lodges and it never fails to exceed guestsโ expectations.
What it's like within the camp
Kaja gives us a quick look at the highlights of her African Safari Adventure inside the Bateleur Safari Camp.
Requirements:
This tour has a lot of walking and requires a moderate level of fitness. There are steep stairs, uneven roads and footpaths. markets are large , you may need to walk several kilometres in a day. You need to be fairly fit to attend this tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
ARRIVALS โCape Town International Airport
Arrival is the 26th of April 2025 check in is from 2pm. You can arrive any time this is a free day with no activities. We will arrange your airport transfers for you.
There are no direct flights to Cape Town from Australia however there are some to Johannesburg. You can add an affordable domestic flight for just around $100AUD.
If you wish to arrive early extra nights accommodation is $350 per room and dependent on availability. This includes breakfast, taqxes and airport transfers.ย
DEPARTURES โ Hoedspruit East Gate Airport (HDS)ย
You can depart anytime on the 4th of May 2025. This tour concludes in Hoedspruit you can book a direct flight to Johannesburg from around $200AUD. We are suggesting flight departing at 11.45am with Airlink arriving to JB at 12.50pm flight number 4Z – 876.
*If travelling return from Australia you could book a return flight from Johannesburg to Australia then add the domestic flight separately – JB – Cape Twna nd then Hoedspruit to – JB.ย
If you wish to stay longer at the Safari camp extra nights are $700 AUD per adult single occupancy and $550 AUD per person twinshare. Airport transfers are $100.
*You do not need to arrive early for this trip. The start day has been set aside for arrivals only.
***If booking return and domestic flights separately it is extra important to take out comprehensive travel insurance to cover any of delays with domestic flights resulting in missed international flights.ย
Entry Requirements โ Passports must be valid for six months beyond the length of stay. You will also have to show your air ticket as proof of onward travel.ย You don’t need a visa if you’re visiting South Africa for tourism purposes from Australia for up to 90 days. For other countries please ask us.
This tour requires a $500 non-refundable, non-transferrable deposit. Once you have secured your booking, you will receive a welcome email with all the details for the trip. There is also a manage booking button included on the email so you can check your booking and payment history whenever needed.ย
Cancellation Policy – Up until 75 days before the start of the tour a $500 non-refundable, non-transferable deposit will be retained.ย For between 75 days and 45 days, ย 50% will be forfeited in addition to the non refundable, non-transferable deposit.ย For less than 45 days or for no shows the entire amount will be retained as we would have already had to pay for accommodation, transport, flights and activities, and this money will not be returned to us.ย Once the tour has commenced no monies will be returned to you.ย This is whyย travel insuranceย is compulsory.
This sightseeing tour has several walking tours and stairs, you require a moderate level of fitness to attend.
You also need to be able to get in and out of an open aired safari vehicle. During the 3 โ 4 hour driving safaris which occur at least once and sometimes twice a day whilst at Timbavati it can be bumpy. If you have a bad back this may not be suitable for you. *Sports bra recommended
Unfortunately we are unable to accommodate complex dietary issues on our tours. If it is something you can manage yourself that is fine. But we cannot be responsible for peoples health and wellbeing in regards to food in foreign countries as sometimes things get lost in translation. We hope you understand. We don’t ever want our guests to become unwell whilst travelling with us.
Vibrant Women with a heart โฅ
Please know that $25 of your booking goes towards supporting our charity Masiphumelele Creative Hub. MCH has made food security the cornerstone of their work. Through a focus on growing and supplying healthy food, sport, art and after-school care classes, they encourage the participation of Masiphumelele youth in preserving and nourishing their own resources.
so THANK YOU!ย
Make the most out of your travel. Check out these extension tours to add to your South Africa Trip
3 Nights Johannesburg Extension Tour 4 - 7 May 2025
starts at A$1050 per person TWINSHARE
Welcome to Johannesburg, the pulsating heart of South Africa! This dynamic city, affectionately known as Jozi or Joburg, beckons travelers with its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant energy. From bustling streets to serene parks, Johannesburg offers a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.
4 – 7 May 2025 – 3 Nights/ 4Daysย
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Single Person Price: A$1250
Twinshare Person Price: A$1050
- 3 nights accommodation
- 3 breakfasts
- Lesedi Village cultural tour
- Soweto city tour
- Hector Pieterson Memorial
- Stroll at Vilakazi Street
- Admission Fees
- Transport throughout including pick up and drop of airport or accommodation
- English speaking driver/guide
- Airfares to and from Johannesburg
- Lunches and Dinners (budget between $15 and $25 per meal)
- Transport outside of organised activities.
- Travel Insurance (which is compulsory)
- Extra Nightsโ Accommodationย
- Tipping for hotel staff – we recommend $10 a day = $30AUD to be given at the end to reception and distributed for all staff.
Lesedi Cultural Village Day 5 May 2025 ย – Within the embrace of Lesedi cultural village lies a tapestry of African enchantment, offering a glimpse into the vibrant tapestry of South Africa’s tribal heritage. As you step into this realm, you are greeted with the rhythmic heartbeat of drumming in the Ndebele Village amphitheater, adorned with tribal artwork. The journey unfolds with a mesmerizing visual tale of History and Culture in the Ingoma Amphitheater, followed by a guided odyssey through homesteads representing the Zulu, Xhosa, Ndebele, Pedi, and Basotho ethnic groups, culminating in a spellbinding dance spectacle. Through choreographed movements, resonant drumbeats, and soul-stirring songs, the ancestral sagas and rituals come alive, weaving a captivating narrative of bygone eras.
Soweto Tour Day 6 May 2025ย – Embark on a guided odyssey through the storied tapestry of Soweto, where history intertwines with the essence of its inhabitants. Traverse the realms of Diepkloof Extension, witness the sentinel hostels and familial abodes, behold the grandeur of Baragwanath Hospital, and pass beneath the shadow of the iconic Orlando Towers. Your pilgrimage culminates at the revered Hector Pieterson Memorial and the illustrious Vilakazi Street, where the Mandela Museum stands as a testament to the late President Mandela’s legacy.
5 Nights Mauritius Beach Escapade 7 - 12 May 2025
starts at A$1250 per person TWINSHARE
Anse La Raie
Take the opportunity on your way home to stop off for a lovely beach escape staying at 4* Altitude Lagoon. The 4* Lagoon Attitude is located in the north of Mauritius in Anse La Raie, overlooking one of the islandโs largest lagoons. The hotel edges a protected coast on the north side of the island and is reserved for adults only, offering a chilled seaside vibe.
*No activities included in this escape its just a relaxing holiday however you can enquire about activities at reception.
Flights not included. You will require a flight from Johannesburg to Mauritius at a cost of approx. $500 AUD
7 – 12 May 2025 5 Nights/ 6Days
Location: Mauritius
Accommodation: Lagoon Altitude
Single Person Price: A$1995
Twinshare Person Price: A$1250
ยทย 5 NIGHTS IN A COUPLES ROOM (This is the room category)
ยทย AIRPORT TRANSFERS
ยทย BREAKFAST & DINNERS
ยทย ACCOMMODATION TAXES
- Airfares to and from Mauritius. You will require a flight from Johannesburg to Mauritius at a cost of approx. $500 AUD. Flight time is approx. 4 hours. We will inform you which flight we think you should book to travel as a group.
- Lunchesย ย
- Transport outside of organised activities.
- Travel Insurance (which is compulsory)
- Extra Nightsโ Accommodationย
- Tipping for hotel staff – we recommend $10 a day = $50AUD to be given at the end to reception and distributed for all staff.
**No activities included in this escape its just a relaxing holiday however you can enquire about activities at reception.
Enjoy stunning hotel accommodations with sea breezes and oceanfront terraces. Laze on a sun lounge near the pristine pool and enjoy a selection of carefully sourced French wines. Take part in the various watersports adventures that most hotels offer, including snorkeling, kayaking and waterskiing tours.
Enjoy this adults only escape away from the town, no children, four restaurants, and easy access to town with a short 10-minute taxi ride. Dinners are included in your package which gives you a choice of three of the four restaurants to dine in.ย Furthermore, the hotel features a marine centre for snorkeling, a day spa for massages, and optional yoga classes.