Escape to South Africa
The Big 5 of South Africa... thriving cities, jaw-dropping scenery, phenomenal wine, sparkling coastlines and, of course, world-renowned wildlife. This incredible destination's diversity and utter devotion to luxury makes it the perfect choice for the most special and memorable getaway anyone could wish for.
Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge](http://www.kwandwe.com/great-fish-river-lodge/) | Kwandwe Private Game Reserve | Late November
Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel | Cape
Town | Late November - Early December
Chapter House Boutique Hotel | Franschhoek | Early December
Arrive into Cape Town International Airport (CPT) on your international arrival flight. Due to connecting flight schedules into Port Elizabeth, your international flight should arrive no later than approximately morning.
More information will be provided after confirmation of the itinerary.
On arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be met at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board. Should your aircraft be directed to the apron and not the terminal building, you will be transported to the terminal by bus where you Meet and Greet will be waiting for you as you step off the bus. You will then be assisted through immigration, baggage collection and customs and on to your next connecting flight.
Upon arrival, you will be met by a representative and transferred to the lodge for check-in.
Birthplace of many of the country's notable figures, the Eastern Cape stretches from a coastal region of pristine beaches and forests, to the arid desert landscape of the Karoo. Such varied scenset means you could be watching whales off a craggy coastline, bouncing along through a grassland reserve, and exploring the lunar landscapes of the desert's all in a matter of days. Sweeping views of barren plains stretch as far as the eye can see, and ancient rock formations jut dramatically from the earth, reaching for the heavens. Aloes and brightly coloured houses dot the topography, a splash of colour in the stark countryside.
The Eastern Cape has its fair share of game reserves, private and national, and one of the main draws is that they are malaria free. The Mountain Zebra National Park, is home to the rare Cape Mountain Zebra, as well as buffalo, cheetah and the smaller predators - genets, bat-eared foxes, and jackals. Addo Elephant National Park, a big 5 reserve is a haven for elephant, and Camdeboo and Shamwari are highly regarded Eastern Cape parks.
Step back in time when you visit the towns time forgot - Graaff-Reinet, Cradock, Nieu Bethesda. Immerse yourself in the pioneering history of farms, forts, steepled churches and the South African artists and writers who have left their mark indelibly carved into this land. The University town of Grahamstown hosts the annual Arts Festival and the Observatory Museum bursts with fascinating Victorian-era memorabilia.
Perched along the lush green banks of its namesake river, Great Fish River Lodge has been designed to showcase the endless landscape in which it is set. Large viewing decks allow for a fully immersive experience in nature and are the perfect spot to watch majestic kudu meander down to the river for a drink, or enjoy an African sunset. Featuring a classic-contemporary style of understated elegance and earthy tones, the lodge is all about tranquillity and solitude. Nine spacious suites feature floor-to-ceiling glass doors, revealing an uninterrupted wilderness, and all have ensuite bathrooms, and an outdoor shower as well as indoor bath and shower. At the main area, relax on the outdoor deck, curl up in the library, and enjoy delicious African-inspired meals in the candlelit dining room or in the boma.
Suite
Inclusions:
- 3 meals daily, soft drinks, house wines, local & premium brand spirits, beers, teas & coffees, refreshments on game drives, laundry, emergency medical evacuation insurance, transfers to/from the lodge airstrip
- Twice daily game drives, nature walks, big game walking safari (tracking rhino, elephant and buffalo on foot) accompanied by specialist ranger and tracker team (subject to availability).
- Community & Conservation Levy
One of the largest private reserves in the Eastern Cape, Kwandwe boasts a well-earned conservation and community success story. This game-rich big 5 reserve is a paradise for birdwatchers, with sightings of fish eagles, and home to the endangered Blue Crane. Head out for an early morning game drive, in open vehicles, stopping for a refreshing coffee break and a chance to listen to the sounds of the bush and admire the landscape. After some down-time and a siesta back at camp, set off again in the late afternoon when the bush comes alive. Sundowners as night falls, then spotlights come out in search of a new range of creatures. Kwandwe offers great nocturnal viewing and a chance to see aardwolf, aardvark and porcupine. For those needing to expend some energy, a guided walking safari is an ideal way to learn about smaller animals and plants.
After an early morning game drive and breakfast, you will be transferred by a representative to Port Elizabeth Airport.
Upon arrival at Cape Town Airport, you will be met in the arrivals hall for a private transfer to your hotel in Cape Town.
With its cerulean coastline and the dramatic backdrop of Table Mountain, Cape Town is a city that makes a striking first impression. However, it doesn’t take much time to realize that Cape Town’s magic goes much deeper than its good looks. The cosmopolitan city is home to chic hotels, innovative restaurants, and a thriving art scene. It has a fraught history, but travelers are sure to leave more enlightened—and more enamored—than when they arrived.
Nestled at the foot of Table Mountain, the 55-room Cloud 9 Boutique Hotel and Spa is located within walking distance of a variety of trendy shops and restaurants on vibrant Kloof and Long Streets. Nearby attractions include the V&A Waterfront, Camps Bay and Clifton Beaches, and the Table Mountain cableway which are all within a 5-minute drive. Additionally, you can get a view of it all as Cloud 9 features a spectacular rooftop bistro, The Mountain Club with a 360-degree view of the city and surrounding mountains.
Heritage Classic Room with Balcony
Inclusions
- Daily breakfast
A full day of stunning scenset awaits, as we embark on an exploration of the Cape Peninsula. We see the trendy beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, before crossing over to the quaint fishing village of Hout Bay. Continuing along Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breath-taking coastal drives, we make our way to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Board the funicular (optional and for own account) for a trip to the top of the Peninsula for incredible panoramic outlooks over the perceived meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans. Next up, the naval base of Simon’s Town is a richly historic destination of museums, and home to Boulders Beach, renowned for its African Penguin breeding colony. We take some time to wander along the boardwalks, marveling at the antics of these amusing creatures. Our final stop is Kirstenbosch Gardens, then return to your hotel.
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: will be provided
Duration: Around 9 hours
Inclusions: Bottled water, vehicle and guide, entrances to Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, Boulders Beach Penguin Colony and Chapmans Peak Toll Fees, Signature Guide; Bottled Water
Spend your time exploring the city:
- Head into the Bo-Kaap to learn about the history of Muslims in Cape Town and take part in a cooking class.
- Visit Camps Bay, which is just 5 minutes from your hotel, for some time by the water.
- Wake up early one morning to hike up Lion's Head for the most spectacular sunrise views.
- Head out horseback riding in the Winelands.
- Enjoy the fantastic dining scene around the city with reservations made by scenset. Suggested restaurants lists will be provided by scenset after booking.
Please let us know if you would like to pre-arrange any additional activities
Your day begins with a tour of Table Mountain to soak up panoramic vistas of the Mother City and the surrounding oceans (weather permitting & cable car fee not included).
You'll then wander through the Company’s Garden and visit the South African Museum, before venturing on to the Castle of Good Hope. Built by the Dutch East India Company, between 1666 and 1679, as a maritime replenishment station, the Castle is the oldest surviving colonial building in the country.
During your trip through the city, you'll pass the Houses of Parliament, the Grand Parade and City Hall - where a significant figure first addressed South Africans after their release. Drop off at the vibrant V&A Waterfront for some time out to explore the restaurants, pubs and shops at your own leisure (or return to your hotel).
Meeting Point: Hotel lobby
Meeting Time: To be determined
Duration: Approximately 4.5 hours
Inclusions: Bottled water, vehicle and guide and entrance fees
An easy drive from Cape Town, the Winelands' dramatic mountains stand guard over a quilt of working vineyards, elegant Cape Dutch estates and quaint towns boasting top restaurants, hotels and spas. Sample some of the regions' award-winning wine offerings, stroll through exquisitely maintained gardens or explore art galleries and antique shops in the oak-lined streets of the local towns. The buzzing university village of Stellenbosch was named after the Governor of the Cape, and, as the historic hub of the Winelands, it is surrounded by around 200 wineries.
Enjoy gourmet meals lovingly prepared by experienced chefs and served in lush gardens, or stylish restaurants. Sample local wines and explore the cellars of well-established wine farms. The Winelands is all about stepping back from the hectic pace of modern living, and appreciating the finer things in life in some of the most gorgeous and tranquil locations this country has to offer.
Franschhoek, a charming town with French Hugenot heritage, is arguably the culinary headquarters of the country and home to the creative genius of a number of resident chefs. Framed by a majestic backdrop of the Helderberg Mountains, Paarl lies peacefully nestled amongst vineyards laden with the harvest's finest offerings.
Chapter House Boutique Hotel is soaked in history; originally built as a Mission House in 1888, and later serving as the village school right up until 1974, this house has chapters filled with stories to tell. The recent renovations have captured many of the scenset features and restored them to their former glory, impressively combining heritage design with local creativity and charm. The public areas of the hotel benefit from enormous attention to detail, including bespoke art pieces from local artists, and handpicked furniture and fabrics. The breath-taking lounge boasts exceptionally high ceilings and a strikingly generous scenset fireplace.
Superior Deluxe Suite
Inclusions:
- Daily breakfast
The Franschhoek Wine Tram hop-on hop-off tour offers a unique and leisurely way to see the Franschhoek Valley as you journey through rolling vineyards in an open-side tram and open-air tram-bus stopping in at some of South Africa’s oldest and most distinguished wine estates. Choose one of eight different lines, each visiting a selection of wine estates showcasing a separate part of the Franschhoek Valley. Each line offers various stops and experiences for wine tastings, a cellar tour, lunch or simply a stroll through the vineyards and when ready hop back on to continue the tour.
- Inclusion: Passage on the tram and guided commentary
After breakfast and check-out, meet your driver for your private transfer to the Cape Town International Airport.
Depart on your international flight from Cape Town International Airport (CPT).
Scenset invests in making the world a better place. Scenset will offset the fuel used during the trip. On top of that, an extra 10% will be offset to make the trip a carbon-positive experience.
Currently, support is provided for Gold Standard Climate+ Projects from the Gold Standard Foundation.
Please Note
- No accommodations or services are being held at this time. Availability is subject to change until confirmation of the itinerary.
If you like what you read and are ready to pull the trigger on this once-in-a-lifetime African adventure, please send a message in the app to let us know. We would be thrilled to secure all the reservations and make sure everything is taken care of, including special surprises along the way.