ITINERARY FOR THE
| Kay Trotman Group |
In association with AMERICAN EXPRESS TRAVEL
NOTE: For travel to South Africa, please ensure that your passport has a minimum of two blank visa pages facing each other for each entry into South Africa, (MUST HAVE THE WORD “VISA”) to enable entry permit to be issued. Passport must be valid at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in South Africa.
DAY 01 WASHINGTON D.C. or NEW YORK / JOHANNESBURG, SOUTH AFRICA
Your exciting African holiday begins today as you depart aboard your South African Airways flight to Johannesburg.
DAY 02 JOHANNESBURG / CAPE TOWN
Arrive in Johannesburg this morning and connect to your ongoing flight bound for Cape Town.
On arrival in Cape Town, South Africa’s “Mother City”, you are welcomed by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
When Jan van Riebeeck arrived at the Cape in 1652, the territory was occupied solely by nomadic Hottentots and Bushmen, eking out a living from the land. Van Riebeeck’s first undertaking was to establish a settlement and a means of supplying passing merchant ships with fresh supplies. The settlement soon earned the title “Tavern of the Seas”. To this day, Cape Town maintains a reputation for friendly hospitality.
With its majestic Table Mountain backdrop, Cape Town is one of the most beautiful cities in the world. An eclectic mix of architectural styles reflects the tastes and dictates of the past – and the more functional demands of the 20th century. The city’s Edwardian and Victorian buildings have been meticulously preserved, and many outstanding examples of Cape Dutch architecture are found in the city and its environs.
Cobblestone streets, mosques and the flat-roofed pastel homes of the Malay Quarter enhance a cosmopolitan ambience, and the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront evokes images of the seafaring activities of the 19th century. For a closer look at life at the Cape in earlier times, interesting historical collections are on display in several museums.
Cape Town’s shopping options invite you to endlessly browse – and buy. At the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, the Victoria Wharf Shopping Center caters for most shopping needs, from designer clothing boutiques and fashion accessory shops to gift stores and food outlets. The Waterfront Craft Market is one of the largest indoor craft markets in South Africa with quality crafts including pottery, leatherwork, furniture, educational toys, clothing, glass art and African arts and crafts. Situated adjacent to Victoria Wharf, The Red Shed Craft Workshop offers a unique interaction between shoppers and those making the wares. Here, you can order a custom made item and watch 23 specialty crafters at work.
ACCOMMODATIONS: THE COMMODORE
The Commodore, located at the highest point on Cape Town’s historic Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, offers spectacular views of Table Mountain, Signal Hill, Granger Bay, Table Bay and Robben Island.
Each of the 198 elegantly furnished superior rooms enjoy breathtaking views and are air-conditioned, bright, spacious and decorated in nautical style. All rooms have en-suite bathroom with bath, shower and toilet, each also have TV, tea/coffee machines, direct dial telephones, electric razor plug and hair dryer.
For your convenience there are a variety of amenities and services available at The Commodore. From a transit lounge where early arrivals and late departures can relax between journeys to a well-equipped gymnasium overlooking the pool area with sauna, steam room and personal trainers. In addition, the Commodore offers a no smoking floor, 24-hour room service and same day laundry and dry cleaning.
The Clipper Restaurant offers fine dining in a relaxed setting. Savor a mouthwatering buffet breakfast or choose from an a la carte menu for lunch and dinner. The Admiralty Bar and Lounge offers light meals and a delicious high tea. Relax and savor while enjoying nostalgic melodies played by the piano man. Light meals are also served on The Terrace from early in the day till late in the evening.
DAY 03 CAPE TOWN
See for yourself how this spectacular southern tip of Africa became known as the ‘Fairest Cape’. The tour begins with a drive past the pristine beaches of Camps Bay Clifton and Llandudno – currently the hottest real estate in the world – to Hout Bay, a functioning harbor and heart of the local crayfish industry. Time permitting, a stop will be made in Hout Bay for a Seal Island cruise (on own account).
After a stop for lunch (own account), it’s on to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and its scenic viewing point. The spectacular sea and mountain views are reason enough to make the 66km trip from Cape Town. Amid the rocky landscape – home to mountain zebra, eland and ostriches - blooms magnificent Cape flora. Continue along the coastline to the beautiful Boulders Beach where you can get close to a colony of penguins. We drive through the naval port of Simon’s Town, the country’s third oldest European settlement. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
ACCOMMODATIONS: COMMODORE HOTEL (B)
DAY 04 CAPE TOWN
Escape to the beauty and tranquility of the Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch winelands for a full day tour. This is a scenically enchanting region of dramatic mountains and fertile valleys, planted with vines stretching across rolling fields. Here farmers enjoy perfect conditions and produce of the best wines in the world. The soil is so rich, they use about a tenth the amount of fertiliser that European farmers do. It is a wonderful combination of small historic towns, beautiful scenery and wine estates producing delicious wines and brandies.
There are literally hundreds of wine estates all offering the chance to sample their unique blends in a picture-perfect setting. Stellenbosch is the capital of the Winelands and was the second town to be established by the Dutch settlers. It is very attractive and full of old thatched and whitewashed Cape Dutch buildings and historic national monuments. The wine estates too, are most impressive with grand manor houses and beautifully laid out grounds.
A stop is made at the Afrikaans Language Monument, perched on Paarl Rock, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding area. Then continue onto wineries of well-known estates, to sample wines of merit, before visiting the Huguenot Monument and Museum in Franschhoek, to discover the origins of this world-renowned wine-producing region.
Lunch is in one of the many fine restaurants in either Franschhoek or Stellenbosch (on your own account). Don’t miss the world-famous 19th century-style general dealer in Stellenbosch’s Dorp Street – Oom Samie se Winkel. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.
This evening you will be guests in a private home and will enjoy the hospitality and delicious cuisine that is synonymous with South Africa.
ACCOMMODATIONS: COMMODORE HOTEL (B,D)
DAY 05 CAPE TOWN
The morning is free for independent activities.
This afternoon, embark on a three-hour cruise and tour of Robben Island and walk in the footsteps of our most famous citizen, Nelson Mandela. The tour includes: A return boat trip across Table Bay, a visit to the Maximum Security Prison, interaction with an ex-political prisoner and a 45-minute bus tour. The tour also offers the opportunity to explore an African penguin colony. For nearly 400 years, Robben Island, 12 kilometers from Cape Town>, was a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. It was here that rulers sent those they regarded as political troublemakers, social outcasts and the unwanted of society.
During the apartheid years Robben Island became internationally known for its institutional brutality. The duty of those who ran the Island and its prison was to isolate opponents of apartheid and to crush their morale. Some freedom fighters spent more than a quarter of a century in prison for their beliefs. Those imprisoned on the Island succeeded on a psychological and political level in turning a prison 'hell-hole' into a symbol of freedom and personal liberation. Robben Island came to symbolize, not only for South Africa and the African continent, but also for the entire world, the triumph of the human spirit over enormous hardship and adversity. Return to the Waterfront to your hotel.
ACCOMMODATIONS: THE COMMODORE (B)
DAY 06 CAPE TOWN JOHANNESBURG
You will be transferred to the airport for the departure of your flight to Johannesburg. On arrival, you will be transferred to your reserved hotel.
This afternoon you are taken on a tour of Pretoria, the administrative capital of South Africa. To explore Pretoria’s imposing museums and monuments, is to trace this country’s extraordinary history. We visit the best of them, from the Voortrekker Monument to Kruger House, Church Square, the City Hall and the Opera House, not forgetting the crescent-shaped architectural masterpiece, the Union Buildings, scene of Nelson Mandela’s emotional inauguration as president in 1994. We return to Johannesburg at about 5:00PM.
ACCOMMODATIONS: MICHELANGELO
Situated in the exclusive Renaissance-styled Sandton Square, the Michelangelo reflects the architecture and design of this unique development. A majestic dome in glass and steel tops the entrance lobby atrium rising eight stories. Scenic elevators overlook the eighty-meter atrium with its arches, columns and decorative balustrades on the passageways. Marble and sandstone finishes add to the elegance.
All suites and rooms have private bathrooms with separate shower and toilet, hair dryers, radio, color TV, pay movie channel and 24-hour CNN. The bedrooms also feature safety deposit, individually controlled air-conditioning, direct dial phone, direct in and out dialing for personal fax/modem, electric razor plug (220/110v) and mini bar. Presidential suites also include direct fax, CD player and hi-fi system.
Hotel amenities and services include 24-hour same day laundry/dry cleaning and valet services, baby-sitting, hairdresser, banks/foreign exchange, travel agent, beauty salon and bookshop and chemist in the shopping center. The hotel also offers a fitness centre with heated pool, pool deck and steam bath. Hospitality lounges offer shower facilities for early arrivals and late departures, express check out and a doctor and dentist on call.
Breakfast, lunch and dinner are served in the Piccolo Mondo restaurant, The Ritrovo bar and lounge is situated in the spectacular atrium and serves light snacks. (B)
DAY 07 JOHANNESBURG
Depart the hotel after breakfast on a full day tour of Soweto and the Apartheid Museum. This morning we take you through the streets of the sprawling township Soweto, scene of the tragic riots of 1976. Despite crowded, chaotic conditions, there’s a tangible sense of community in these neighborhoods, which the ordered, walled suburbs lack. Few who venture into this ‘other’ Johannesburg are unmoved by what they witness.
Apartheid was dismantled a decade ago but its full horror lives on in a stark white building in Johannes-burg. It’s called the Apartheid Museum, and it takes visitors on a fascinating, horrifying, humbling and ultimately inspiring journey from the dark days of ‘whites only’ privilege, through to Nelson Mandela’s historic release from prison. Get a small idea of what it was like to have your entire life determined by your skin color. Documentary pieces of film, texts, sound clips and live accounts recapture life in the old South Africa. It’s a journey you’re unlikely to forget in a hurry.
ACCOMMODATIONS: MICHELANGELO (B)
DAY 08 JOHANNESBURG / HOEDSPRUIT / TIMBAVATI PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE
Today you will be transferred to the airport for departure of your flight to Hoedspruit. Upon arrival you will be met and driven to your safari accommodations.
PLEASE NOTE: Upon entering the Timbavati Private Nature Reserve, a Conservation fee of R90 (approximately $15) per person will be collected.
The Timbavati Private Nature Reserve runs parallel to the Western border of the famous Kruger National Park. It covers approximately 185,000 acres of magnificent Mpumalanga Province and provides a variety of habitat for the wild animals which abound in this superb sanctuary.
Endangered species congregate here, including wild dog, cheetah and Cape vultures. The famous White Lions were born here and some still roam the territory.
ACCOMMODATIONS: KINGS CAMP
Kings Camp is set in the midst of the beautiful Timbavati Game Reserve on the western border of the famous Kruger National Park. With its unique romantic ambience, the camp offers magnificent bushveld accommodations with dinner served under the stars around a flickering campfire accompanied by the sounds of the African night. Guests can plan their days with their ranger, which can include game drives in Land Rovers, wilderness walks or picnics in the bush.
Kings Camp is a game-viewing haven that features elephant, lion, leopard, rhino and buffalo. However, Kings Camp promises far more than just a good game-spotting destination - with access to 100 square kilometres of traversing, guests are also treated to a brilliant abundance of birdlife.
Private safaris under the guidance of a skilled ranger will prove to be an exhilarating experience for bird-watchers and tree enthusiasts as they explore the rarer sights and wonders of the bush. Any particular requests such as guided walks or tribal dances under the great African skies will be arranged with pleasure. Kings Camp is exceptionally proud of its viewing deck where guests can safely soak up the stillness and serenity of the bush while keeping a sharp lookout for passing animals and birds.
The staff at Kings Camp are dedicated to providing a gracious style of hospitality, combined with a flexibility that puts the comfort of guests first. Furnished in the style of a bygone era, this intimate lodge guarantees comfort and personal service for a memorable stay. Traditional thatched bungalows are spacious and luxuriously furnished and equipped with air-conditioning, mini-bar and en-suite bathroom. Camp facilities include a lounge-bar and refreshing swimming pool with a viewing deck overlooking a waterhole.
When it comes to mealtimes, true South African cuisine is offered in a comfortable atmosphere with dinner in the boma or a bush braai under the canvas of the dazzling African sky, all complemented by an exceptional wine cellar. (B,L,D)
DAY 09 TIMBAVATI NATURE RESERVE
Morning and afternoon game viewing in this spectacular wildlife kingdom. You will have the opportunity to spot lion, elephant, giraffe, rhino, leopard, hippo, wildebeest, warthog, hyena, and the elusive cheetah - to name just a few!
ACCOMMODATIONS: KINGS CAMP (B,L,D)
DAY 10 TIMBAVATI NATURE RESERVE / SABI SAND GAME RESERVE
After a morning game viewing drive and breakfast, transfer by road to your next safari accommodations at a private game reserve in the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, bordering the Kruger National Park.
Arrive at your lodge in time for lunch, then relax before setting-out on an afternoon game drive. Return to camp for a sumptuous dinner and overnight.
ACCOMMODATIONS: SIMBAMBILI LODGE
Simbambili is a Swahili word meaning “two lions”. Located in the northern sector of the famed Sabi Sand Game Reserve, this beautiful lodge offers 5-star accommodation coupled with superb wildlife viewing experiences. The Big Five are frequently sighted here, and the area is especially favored by leopard, are often seen resting in the treetops, or hunting down prey under cover of darkness.
The lodge has been creatively positioned on the banks of the Manyeleti River. The lounge, dining area, bar, swimming pool and viewing deck overlook the river, with wonderful views of the river bed and waterhole.
This exclusive lodge has only 8 thatched chalets, each positioned on the banks of the Manyeleti River, and uniquely designed to provide optimum privacy. Each suite offers a large bedroom area, which faces directly onto the riverbed and active waterhole. The spacious bathrooms feature double vanities, a huge free standing bathtub, and an open shower, which all overlook the pristine bush. There is a comfortable sitting area with a settee, desk and minibar, and the entire unit has central air conditioning and heating.
Glass doors cover the front of each chalet, and can be completely opened to reveal a large viewing deck, a personal plunge pool, and a private sala, where guests can lie back and enjoy the sights and sounds of the bush.
Simbambili offers morning and afternoon game drives in specially-designed open land rovers. Midday game walks are led by qualified guides, and can reveal a plethora of birdlife and smaller game, who are particularly suited to the heat of the day. (B,L,D)
DAY 11 SABI SAND GAME RESERVE
You’ll have morning and afternoon game viewing in this spectacular wildlife kingdom, with the opportunity to spot lion, elephant, giraffe, rhino, leopard, hippo, wildebeest, warthog, hyena, and the elusive cheetah - to name just a few!
ACCOMMODATIONS: SIMBAMBILI LODGE (B,L,D)
DAY 12 JOHANNESBURG / SUN CITY
An early morning wake-up call and out into the bush on the morning safari in search of animals not seen the day before. Return to camp for a hearty breakfast, and then fly to Johannesburg. On arrival, transfer overland to the resort city of Sun City.
Upon arrival in Johannesburg, you will be met at the airport and transferred overland to the resort area of Sun City.
Deep in the heart of an ancient volcanic crater lies a city surrounded by untamed Africa. It is a city that never sleeps, a city that knows no limits.
Rising from the hills of the Pilanesberg, Sun City overlooks a fabulous landscape of sub-tropical gardens, sparkling swimming pools and a lush spread of fairways and greens next to a huge man-made lake offering every watersport imaginable.
By day, you can go on a game drive through the beautiful Pilanesberg National Park, 60,000 hectares of natural African bush, with elephant, cheetah, leopard, giraffe, rhino and a large variety of buck species.
For the golfer there is the Gary Player Country Club, and the Lost City Club, where you can test your skill on a course which plays host to a select few of the world's greatest golfers who compete in the annual Sun City Million Dollar Golf Challenge.
By night, Sun City has it all, from ultra-energetic extravaganza shows and glittering casinos to revue bars, cinemas, restaurants, shops, boutiques and the Sun City Superbowl spectaculars.
ACCOMMODATIONS: THE PALACE OF THE LOST CITY AT SUN CITY
Situated right next to Sun City, the surrounding jungle will reveal some of the largest man-made waterscapes ever created. Stunning features include waterfalls, hidden streams, fish ponds, bubbling cataracts, water slides, a surfing pool with waves and a salt water pool with a tropical coral reef where guests can snorkel or scuba dive amongst brightly colored tropical fish.
Sporting facilities will include a second 18 hole championship golf course to complement the world-famous Gary Player Country Club golf course.
Hotel amenities include 350 opulent rooms and suites. Standard features include bathrooms en suite, color television, direct dial telephone , radio, air-conditioning and 24 hour room service.
The towers provide a dramatic view of the jungle, where concealed walkways lead to surprising discoveries. The two restaurants at the Palace are set in fabulous locations, one on an island and the other overlooking the magnificent lake and rain forest.
DAY 13 SUN CITY
Enjoy an early morning game drive in the vast untamed wilderness of the Pilanesberg National Park, a game reserve teeming with wildlife. This game reserve is one of the largest reserves in South Africa with over 10,000 head of game, including the "Big Five" (elephant, leopard, lion, rhino and buffalo), as well as cheetah, hippo, giraffe, antelope and more than 350 bird species.
Situated approximately 15 kilometres from Sun City, the Pilanesberg National Park ranks among the largest national parks in southern Africa. The reserve covers an area of 55,000 hectares. This unique area is encircled by four rings of hills, a geologically fascinating alkaline complex produced by volcanic action some 1,200 million years ago. The scenic beauty of Pilanesberg is reflected in a large central lake. Through time, wind and water have carved a spectacular landscape with rocky outcrops, open plains, wooded valleys and dense bush.
Pilanesberg exists within the transition zone between the dry Kalahari and wetter Lowveld vegetation, commonly referred to as "Bushveld". Unlike any other large park, unique overlaps of mammals, birds and vegetation occur because of this transition zone. Springbok, brown hyena, the red-eyed bulbul, and camel thorn trees usually found in arid areas are found co-habitating with moist-area-limited impala, black-eyed bulbul and Cape chestnut trees. The colorful hues, varied habitats and panoramas will delight and entertain photographers and all but the most unobservant visitor. Pre-sunrise and post-sunset drives are possible owing to gate opening/closure times.
Since late 1979, thanks to Operation Genesis - the largest game translocation ever undertaken at the time, tourists have been able to take note of nature's alphabet - from aardvark to zebra. The park boasts healthy populations of lion, leopard, black and white rhino, elephant and buffalo - Africa's "Big Five". A wide variety of rare and common species exist with endemic species like the nocturnal brown hyena, the fleet-footed cheetah, the majestic sable, as well as giraffe, zebra, hippo and crocodile, to mention but a few.
The park has over 100 kilometres of well-surfaced roads, much patronized by visitors from the next-door Sun City resort complex and its satellite hotels. Picnic sites, viewing hides and self-guided wilderness trails are among the established facilities. The viewing is probably at its most rewarding along the valleys.
The afternoon is at leisure for independent activities.
ACCOMMODATIONS: THE PALACE OF THE LOST CITY AT SUN CITY (B)
DAY 14 SUN CITY / JOHANNESBURG / WASHINGTON D.C.
You will be transferred back to Johannesburg today where you will connect with your international flight home. (B)
DAY 15 WASHINGTON D.C.
Arrive home today with memories to last a lifetime!
**W E L C O M E H O M E**