Compare Explore Cape Town & Kruger National Park by G Adventures vs Cape Town & the Coast by Great Value Vacations
Compare details and see what other travelers are saying.
| Trip |
5 | Excellent
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4 | Great
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| Duration | 10 days | 13 days |
| Price From | $ 1,499 | $ 3,937 |
| Price Per Day | $ 150 | $ 303 |
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| Trip Style | Small group tour | Self-guided tour |
| Lodging Level | Premium | Standard |
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| Flights & Transport | Ground transport included | Airfare included |
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| Meals Included | 9 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 6 dinners | N/A |
| Description |
Spectacular scenery, vibrant culture, and a dramatic, inspiring past—South Africa has it all. Discover the charms of Cape Town, one of Africa’s most beautiful cities, then travel to Johannesburg—former home of revolutionary leader Nelson Mandela and gateway to some of the world's most celebrated wildlife reserves. Scan the horizon of Kruger National Park for the "big five," spend time with a conservationist from the National Geographic's Big Cat Initiative, and enjoy unforgettable sunsets over the savanna. |
Escape to bright blue waters, postcard-worthy landscapes, rolling vineyards, and wildlife-filled brush. Hear the sounds of elephant's trumpet, dance to the beat of hand-drums, and spot whales' tails poking up from the ocean. Try the vibrant flavors of authentic South African Braii, paired perfectly with a glass of local Pinotage, of course. On this vacation, become part of the magic of South Africa. Start your journey in colorful Cape Town! Visit sparkling Camp's Bay, hike up Lion's Head, and stroll through Bo-Kaap - all while majestic Table Mountain sits in the background. For once-in-a-lifetime views, take a cable car up the iconic mountain and watch a truly unforgettable sunset. Next, drive through the winding countryside to stunning Stellenbosch. Immerse yourself in the beauty of the South African Winelands and treat yourself to tons of sips and samples! From Stellenbosch, head to the Whale Coast! Gaze out at the bright blue waters of Hermanus, right near the meeting points of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. Enjoy cliffside hikes, peaceful whale watching, and endless exploration. You'll spend the next couple of nights in breathtaking Knysna - home of the picture-perfect Knysna Heads! Your final stop may be last on the list of destinations, but it's certainly not last in adventure. Drive to Kariega Private Game Reserve and watch your dreams of an African safari come to life! Take tons of photos and see the Big 5 and more in-person! Say hello to giraffes, elephants, zebra, and more. Helpful links for travel to South Africa: Visa & Passport Info |
Day 1 Cape Town
Arrive at any time. Arrival transfer is included.
Day 2 Cape Town
Begin the day with an exploration of vibrant Cape Town, wandering through the multicultural Bo-Kaap neighborhood. Then enjoy an exclusive guided tour of Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, named by National Geographic Travel as one of the world’s 10 most magnificent gardens. Later, stop by Boulders Beach to see the resident population of African penguins, and continue to the Cape Point lighthouse and the Cape of Good Hope, the southwesternmost point in Africa.
Day 3 Cape Town
Enjoy a day of leisure in Cape Town, choosing from a variety of optional activities. Hop on a cable car to the summit, taking in extraordinary views of the city and the Atlantic seaboard. Or explore the Cape Winelands, visiting the historical city of Stellenbosch, touring wine estates with expert guides, and indulging in a variety of tastings and pairings.
There is something for everyone in Cape Town. Visit Table Mountain, walk the V&A Waterfront or embark on a wine tour in and around Stellenbosch. For the adventurous, opt to go, abseiling. Wander through the city centre, which has some of the oldest buildings and gardens in South Africa. Check out the Cultural Historical Museum, Planetarium, and many other museums and theatres.
If you are interested in visiting Robben Island - you must book it directly with the museum on their website prior to travel: http://www.robben-island.org.za Due to high demand, it is common that this tour can be sold out over one month in advance.
Day 4 Cape Town/Johannesburg
Fly to Johannesburg, then take a guided tour of Soweto township. Soweto was an important center of South Africa’s anti-apartheid movement and home to its leader, Nelson Mandela. Visit the Mandela House Museum and learn about this painful chapter in the country’s history. In the evening, enjoy a traditional South African dinner with your fellow travellers.
Day 5 Johannesburg/Greater Kruger Area
Set out towards Kruger National Park via the magnificent Panorama Route, one of the world’s most picturesque drives. Make stops at the dramatic Blyde River Canyon and Bourke's Luck Potholes, and take in panoramic views of the forest-covered valley from the God's Window viewpoint. Continue to our lodge near Kruger National park, savour a delicious South African Dinner in this picturesque location.
Today is a very long driving day; however, we will make many stops along the way at sites along the Panorama Route.
Day 6 Kruger National Park
Rise early and climb aboard an open jeep for a full-day safari in Kruger National Park—home to an extraordinary array of large mammals. Spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and perhaps elusive leopards as we explore this breathtaking wilderness of savanna and scrubland. Return to our lodge in the evening, where you can take some time to relax and enjoy the nocturnal sounds of the bush.
At over 19,000 sq km (7,500 sq mi), South Africa’s Kruger National Park is one of the largest and most impressive animal reserves in the world. With 147 species, Kruger has more species of large mammals than any other park on the continent.
Day 7 Greater Kruger Area/Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Travel to the Karongwe Private Game Reserve, a pristine wildlife sanctuary located in the Greater Kruger area. Meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Metapopulation Project—a program funded in part by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative—and learn about efforts to protect the region’s cheetahs and other carnivores. The researcher then joins us for a wildlife-viewing excursion through the reserve.
For the next two days, enjoy ranger-led morning and evening wildlife safari drives in an open safari vehicle in Karongwe Nature Reserve, searching for Africa's famed Big Five. With over 9,000 hectares (22,240 acres) of supreme African bushveld, Karongwe Private Game Reserve is home to many creatures, and our safari drives provide several opportunities for wildlife viewing. We use various accommodations within the reserve (the location is based on availability). During your time here, you will either stay in lodge rooms or very comfortable permanent tents (both of equal quality and with similar amenities).
Wildlife safari drives are conducted with qualified wildlife rangers and local expert trackers who will share their vast experience of the African bush. On some occasions, if space is unavailable, we may need to change accommodations or even use a different private reserve. In such a case, be assured we will choose other lodges or comfort camps (of equal quality) within the Greater Kruger area.
Day 8 Karongwe Private Game Reserve
Spend the day exploring Karongwe on morning and afternoon safaris with our local guides. Search for Africa's famed "big five" as we drive through the shrublands of the bushveld. Back at camp, relax on deck or take a walk around the grounds.
Wake up before the sun (around 5am) and sip your morning coffee before heading out on a morning wildlife safari drive. Return to the lodge for brunch and some leisure time. Converse on the deck, walk the grounds and gardens, and enjoy high tea. Following tea, it's time for a late afternoon safari drive. After spotting tons of wildlife, it’s time to return to camp and freshen up before dinner, a traditional braai.
Day 9 Karongwe Private Game Reserve/Johannesburg
Embark on one last safari this morning, keeping a lookout for Karongwe’s iconic inhabitants. Then head back to the city, where you’ll enjoy dinner in our lodge.
Day 10 Johannesburg
Depart at any time.
Day 1 Welcome to Cape Town!
As your plane floats down to land, peek out at the majestic mountains and deep blue waters that await you below! Upon arrival in Cape Town International Airport (CPT), you will be welcomed by a friendly travel representative who will shower you with tips, directions, and suggestions. Next, pick up your rental car and take off! Take a scenic drive along the sparkling coast, then settle into your luxurious hotel. Unpack, then spend your first afternoon frolicking around the vibrant V&A Waterfront. Treat yourself to some delicious seafood at any of the Waterfront's seaside restaurants, browse through local craft shops, and listen to the lively beats of street drummers. To finish off an amazing first day, take an unforgettable sunset ride on the giant Ferris Wheel that sits at the center of the Waterfront - talk about incredible views!
Day 2 Cape Town
Wake up to blue skies, mountain views, and sea air! After an energizing breakfast, head to nearby Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where you'll suddenly feel tiny in the shadow of towering trees and soaring mountains. Take tons of priceless photos as you walk through vast greenery and become surrounded by rare, brightly-colored flora and fauna. Put on your bravest face and walk across the amazing tree canopy walkway! If time allows,frolic through the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap! This former township, nestled on the slopes of Signal Hill, is a quaint neighborhood filled with proud residents and rich history. Take tons of eye-catching photos in-front of the vivid brightly-colored homes! In the afternoon, grab your camera and fill your backpack with water-bottles and snacks - it's time to hike Lion's Head! On this easy-intermediate hike, experience some of the most amazing views Cape Town has to offer. Gaze out at the horizon and watch the blue ocean meet the shore beneath Table Mountain. Feel immersed in lush vegetation, say hello to some friendly wildlife, and feast your eyes on a once-in-a-lifetime sunset.
Day 3 Cape Town
Spend your morning walking along the trendy restaurant-lined streets near Camp's Bay Beach. Grab a bite at a cute seaside cafe, then take a stroll on the sand. Look right and see bright blue ocean, then look left and see a majestic backdrop of Table Mountain. Hop in the car and spend the afternoon exploring Cape Town's extraordinary outskirts. Drive through beautiful Hout Bay, then make your way to Simon's Town. Pull over, stretch your legs, and wander along quaint shop-lined streets. Be sure to stop at Boulder's Beach and take tons of photos with some friendly locals - penguins, of course! Boulder's Beach is home to a large colony of African Penguins, and they're there all year-round. Watch them bask in the sun and swim in the cool waters in front of you! Spend your last night in Cape Town unwinding at a trendy bar on Kloof Street.
Day 4 Cape Town - Stellenbosch
Wave goodbye to the cobalt coast, for now. Embark on a scenic journey through the mountainous countryside to South Africa's picture-perfect wine region: Stellenbosch! Upon arrival, settle into your elegant hotel and wander around its gorgeous grounds. Take a walk into town and explore charming Church Street! Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at any of the fabulous restaurants in the area.
Day 5 Stellenbosch
Say "cheers" to an exciting day of exploring South Africa's world-renowned wine region! Visit any of the area's countless wineries and treat yourself to a tasting, or two. Be sure to try South Africa's signature red: Pinotage! Sip its smooth, slightly smokey flavor - it might be your new favorite!
Day 6 Stellenbosch - Hermanus
Head to Hermanus today and get ready for a whale of a time! Drive down the Western Cape until you reach the bright blue waters of South Africa's - and perhaps the world's - whale watching capital. This beautiful beach town is populated with Southern Right Whales, species of sharks, and other marine wildlife, so keep your eyes peeled! Tonight, treat yourself to a beachfront meal at any of Hermanus' cliffside restaurants!
Day 7 Hermanus
Enjoy an energizing breakfast, then lace up your sneakers and head to Fernkloof Nature Reserve! Hike gorgeous cliffs and feast your eyes on spectacular sea views. More breathtaking beauty awaits at Walker Bay! Sit and stare out at the vast ocean and watch majestic whales swim on by.
Day 8 Hermanus - Knysna
Hit the road and embark on a journey along the sparkling southern coast. On your way to Knysna, consider stopping at picturesque Mossel Bay for lunch. Then, continue onto Knysna and check-in to your beautiful hotel.
Day 9 Knysna
Ah, wake up in paradise! Rejuvenate with a tasty breakfast, then grab your camera and head to Knysna Heads. This postcard-worthy spot boasts dramatic cliffs and deep turquoise waters that are so beautiful you won't believe they're real. From the Heads, explore the rest of Garden Route National Park and discover the beauty of the wilderness. In the afternoon, check out the bustling Wild Oats Farmer's Market. Try delicious foods, learn about Knysna's culture, and mingle with some friendly locals. After you finish your snacks, make your way to breathtaking Brenton on Sea or Buffalo Bay and relax on the warm sand of the glistening beach. If time allows, drive through the magnificent Prince Alfred's Pass. Feel awe-struck by jaw-dropping mountain-scapes, hidden waterfalls, and endless greenery.
Day 10 Knysna - Kariega Private Game Reserve
Breathe in the salty sea air as you enjoy a pleasant breakfast, then head for the brush. Today's the day to let your wild side roar! Explore the lush grounds of the malaria-free reserve, then indulge in a delicious dinner at the main lodge. Get a good night's rest - excitement awaits tomorrow!
Day 11 Kariega Private Game Reserve
Wake up in the wild! Enjoy breakfast, then put on your best safari hat and get exploring. Take tons of photos on your first safari drive of the day, then break for a yummy lunch. Roam around the gorgeous grounds of the reserve, then get ready for round two. Spot lions, elephants, leopards, and more! After an exciting day, indulge in a delicious dinner back at the lodge. Then, cozy up and get a good night's sleep.
Day 12 Kariega Private Game Reserve
What's a better way to spend your last day in South Africa than on Safari? Enjoy the day and try to spot all of the Big 5 and more! Get that selfie with a giraffe and hear the roar of a nearby male lion. Spend your last dinner reflecting on the success of your magical South African journey.
Day 13 Depart South Africa
Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and take one last scenic drive to the airport. Drop off your rental car and fly from Port Elizabeth to Johannesburg, then board your connection home. Spend your flight scrolling through priceless photos and dreaming about your next adventure.
