Compare Spirit of Africa by Spirit Tours vs 11 Day Essential South Africa: Cape Town, Winelands and Safari by Ker & Downey Africa

Day 1: Depart USA

You choose your route via Europe, or via JFK or Washington DC. We can assist you in making travel plans to Cape Town

Day 2: Arrive Capetown

Transfer to the Radison Hotel Waterfront is situated on the edge of the Atlantic Ocean and overlooking its own marina , the hotel has a distinctly maritime feel. Located  a short walk away from the Victoria & Alfred shopping complex on the harbour, this large and spacious hotel is convenient and  comfort able, offering you high quality accommodation and service. A large pool terrace contain s a rim - flow swimming pool that overlooks the sea, a great place to relax.

Day 3: Cape Town Robbin Island Tour

The morning begins with meditation and daily prayer followed by breakfast at 9:00am . At 1:00pm we catch the Ferry to Robben Island, previously used by the Dutch to house;convicts and late as a leprosy colony. The real historical significance however lies in the use of Robben Island as a political prison by a previous "apartheid" government where the leaders of  the struggle against "apartheid" were incarcerated. A guided tour on Robben Island will provide special insight to the conditions under which the political; prisoners were held as well as interesting insight into the struggle against "apartheid". During the tour, the highlight will be a visit to the prison cell of the icon Nelson Mandela, later to become the first democratically elected president of South Africa.That evening we will have our welcome dinner at the hotel.

Day 4: Cape Point Tour

The morning begins with meditation and daily prayer followed by breakfast at 9:00am. We will then take the Cape Point Tour. This is an awe - inspiring tour to the towering headland known as Cape Point. Magnificent beaches, breathtaking 3 views, historic and picturesque coastal villages are to be seen along the way. The Cape tour is one of the world’s most scenic areas and stretches from the city centerto Cape Point. We will travel along one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal drives. We will travel thru Camps Bay and Haut Bay. Our last leg of the tour takes us along the Atlantic Seaboard stopping at a Llandudno look - out point. We will travel thru Silver mine Nature Reserve area to Cape Point and the  Good Hope Nature Reserve , which has magnificent  fynbos vegetation, birdlife, endemic antelope species, zebra, historic lighthouses and shipwrecks. Cape Point is perceived to be the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. We will visit the African penguin colony located at the beautiful Boulders Beach . These quaint flightless birds are one of the main eco- tourism attractions in Cape Town. You can view the penguins from elevated boardwalks. Here we will have lunch. We will continue thru historic Simon’s Town, a village with charming Victorian architecture, a naval base.The tour ends at 4:00pmat your hotel

Day 5: Table Mountain

The morning begins with meditation and daily prayer followed by breakfast at  9:00am. After the group meeting we will have some free time to shop oneof Africa's most famous waterfront shopping & centres. We will be met in the hotel foyer at1:30pm by an Ilios Travel Representative to beginour tour of Table Mountain. We will take a 65 passenger cable car ride from Tafleberg Road to the top of TableMountain ,where we will enjoy spectacular views in all directions and a bird’s eye view of the city (weather permitting). Once on top you are free to follow paths tovarious look - outs, make use of the telescopes and enjoy a  light meal or simply a sundowner drink in the restaurant. (Regardless of the weather at the base of the mountain, take a windbreaker as it can often be cool  on the mountain top. Wear sturdy walking/hiking shoes.) By the late 1870's, several of Cape Town's more prominent citizens hadsuggested the introduction of a railway line to the top of Table Mountain. Plans to implement a proposed rack railway got under way but the outbreak of the Anglo - BoerWar put a halt to these efforts. By 1912, with a strong desire to gain easyaccess to the t op of Table Mountain, the Cape Town City Council commissioned an engineer to investigate the various options for public transport to the top. Thenew cableway was officially opened on the 4th of October 1997, the anniversaryof the original launch, almost 70 years previously. To date the Cableway has transported more than 16 million passengers to thesummit. 800000 visitors from all over the world use the Cableway annually. Even with so many visitors, queuing time is minimal due to the new upgraded system . 4 The cable car was imported from Switzerland and there are only 2 other in the world in Titlis in the Swiss Alps in Switzerland, and one in Palm Springs in  America.The cable car floor rotates giving everyone a 360 degree view on theway up. At its highest point Table Mountain is 1085m above sea level. The tourconcludes at approximately5:20pm when you will be dropped off at your hotel. That evening we will enjoy dinner on our own.

Day 6: Kirstenbosch Gardens 

The morning begins with stretching and yoga at 7:00 a.m. for those interested, followed by breakfast at 8:00 a.m. (included) and a group meeting for prayer and meditation at 9:00 am .You will be met in the hotel foyer at 9:30 am by an ILIOS Travel Representative to begin your tour of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The beautiful Kirstenbosch Gardens cover an area of 528 hectares with 36 hectares of cultivated garden.The gardens are a celebration of South African flora - showcasing only indigenous South African plants.Fynbos, proteas, cycads and rolling lawns are intermingled with streams and ponds and well - laid out pathways for easy walking. A great variety of birds inhabit the gardens and the sweeping views from the upper slopes are spectacular. Whether for a casual stroll, a more strenuous walk the gardens are a must - see when visiting Cape Town. We will spend 3 hours at the Gardens and lunchcan be purchased at the restaurant.That eve we will have a Cape town farewell dinner at the African Café.

Day 7: Ngala Game Reserve

This morning following breakfast we will leave the hotel by 8: 0 0am for our 10:00am flight to KRUGER MPUMALANGA INT APTNELSPRUIT KRUGER ZA SOUTH AFRICA AIR8663K SU CAPE TOWN TO NELSPRUIT DEPART AT   1000A arrive1235P We then will be transported on a  3h our drive thrusome of the most beautiful country in South Africato Ngala Private Game Lodge in Kruger National Park.This gracious, colonial - style safari lodge, set in Ngala's extraordinary African wilderness, is renowned for its superb accommodation . It provides an unbeatable family safari experience in the heart of the Kruger National Park. The 20 thatched cottages are shaded by Mopane trees and overlook the riverine below.All cottages feature air conditioning, intimate verandas and green slate in suite; baths and showers. After settling into your room we will venture into the bush for our first game drive. 5 Ngala reserve will provide Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner.

Day 8: Ngala Game Reserve

Situated within the world -famous Kruger National Park, a safari at Ngala Private Game Reserve is an unsurpassed wildlife experience offering exceptional game viewing, an abundance of birdlife, numerous spectacularly scenic attractions and cultural experiences.

A typical day at a Game Lodge:

5:30a m

After senses are awakened by the sounds of the bushveld, guests congregate with the rangers at the main lodge for tea, coffee and light,; snacks in anticipation of the early morning  game drive .

6:30am

As the early morning sun rises over the horizon, highly skilled game rangers and trackers head out with us into the African bushveld to discover the wonder of the African bush and a unique encounter with its majestic inhabitants. One can sense the excitement.  Who knows what to expect? A  herd of ever – cautious impala  huddled together, a leopard in the  branches of a knobthorn tree with  a  kill from the last hours of darkness,  a  herd of elephant feeding in the lush  vegetation or a pride of lion in the  shade of an acacia. The sound of creatures awakening to a new day stirs your passion for Africa and its  many wonders

9:30am

The fresh aromas of Ngala's signature breakfast entice guests back to  the lodge. Overlooking the Africa n plains from the main deck, a  spectacular  breakfast follows your return from the morning game drive, with a buffet of seasonal fruits, cereals, yogurt and fruit juice, followed by  a delectable hot  breakfast

11:00am

Optional Bush walk can be arranged with Rangers at the Lodge.(For no  additional charge)

1:00pm  

Lunch  -- Ngala’s talented chefs prepare a medley of culinary delights, inspired by African  flavours yet guided by western cooking tradition.

2:00pm

the group meets for an informal discussion and check in followed by free time for relaxation.

4:00pm

As the endless African day starts to cool and the shadows are forming across the plains, guests enjoy afternoon refreshments, which are served in the  main lodge before the evening game drive

4:30pm 

A vivid sunset sky forms the backdrop of an unforgettable wildlife experience. As darkness approaches, the animals become more active, rarely seen  nocturnal creatures emerge and incredible  interactions are the order of the day. 

8:00pm

One by one, the drivers return to the lodge, the fires are lit and the night's  entertainment be gins. Return to the lodge for dinner around the fire in the Boma under a starlit sky, or a  gourmet meal by candlelight in  the dining room. A fusion of venison dishes, fresh fish from the South African coast, pastas, soups and  vegetables, dinner at Ngala is a sumptuous affair, where you will be enchanted  by the rhythm and harmony of a local choir. Retire to your suite for a restful night’s sleep in preparation for the next exciting day

Day 9: Ngala Private Game Reserve

5:30am

After senses are awakened by the sounds of the bushveld, guests congregate with the rangers at themain lodge for tea, coffee and light  snacks in anticipation of the early morning game drive.

6:30am

As the early morning sun rises over the horizon, highly skilled gam e rangers and trackers  head out with  us  into the African bushveld to  discover the wonder of the African bush and a unique encounter with its majestic  inhabitants. One can sense the excitement. Who knows what to expect? A herd of ever - cautious impala huddled together, a leopard in the branches of a  knobthorn tree with a kill from the last hours of darkness, a herd of elephant feeding in the lush vegetation or a pride of lion in the shade of an acacia. The sound of creatures awakening to a new day stirs you passion for Africa and its 7 many wonders

9:30am

The fresh aromas of Ngala's signature breakfast entice guests back  to  the lodge. Overlooking the African plains from the main deck, a spectacular breakfast follows your  return from the morning game drive, with a buffet of seasonal fruits, cereals, yogurt and fruit juice, followed by a delectable hot breakfast

11:00am

Optional Bush walk can be arranged with  Rangers at the Lodge.(For no additional charge)

1:00pm  

Lunch  -- Ngala’s talented chefs prepare a  medley of culinary delights, inspired by African flavors yet guided by western cooking tradition .

2:00pm 

The group meets for an informal discussion and check in followed by free time for relaxation.

4:00pm

As the endless African day starts to cool  and the shadows are  forming across the plains, guests enjoy afternoon refreshments, which are served in the  main lodge before the evening game drive

4:30pm 

A vivid sunset sky forms the  backdrop of an unforgettable wildlife  experience. As darkness approaches, the animals become more active, rarely seen  nocturnal creatures emerge and incredible  interactions are the order of the day. 

8:00pm

One by one, the drivers return to  the lodge, the fires are lit and the night's entertainment begins. Return to the lodge for our farewell dinner around the fire in the Boma under a starlit sky

Day 10: Ngala Game Reserve

5:30am

After senses are awakened by the sounds of the bushveld, guests  congregate with the rangers at the main  lodge for tea, coffee and light  snacks in anticipation of the  early morning game drive.

6:30am

As the early morning sun rises over the horizon, highly skilled game rangers and trackers head out with  us  into the African bushveld to discover the wonder of the  African bush and a unique encounter with its majestic  inhabitants. One can sense the excitement. Who knows  8 what to expect? A herd of ever - cautious impala huddled together, a leopard in  the branches of a knobthorn tree with a kill from the last hours of darkness, a  herd of elephant feeding in the lush vegetation or a pride of lion in the shade of  an acacia. The sound of creatures awakening to a new day stirs your passion for  Africa and its many wonders

8:30am

The fresh aromas of Ngala's signature breakfast entice guests back  to  the lodge. Overlooking the African plains from the main deck, a  spectacular  breakfast follows your return from the morning game drive, with a buffet of  seasonal fruits, cereals, yogurt and fruit juice, followed by a delectable hot  breakfast

9:30am

We will check out of Ngala and be transported to a nearby airport HOEDSPRUIT.

About an hour from the game lodge.

Day 1: Cape Town International Airport - One & Only, Cape Town

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: One & Only Cape Town

Luxury hotel located in or near Cape Town

Main Destination: Cape Town

Arrive at Cape Town International Airport before being greeted by your private chauffeur who will escort you to your private transfer. A short 20 minutes later and you will arrive at your first destination of your South African experience - the world famous One & Only Cape Town.

Located in the heart of the Cape Town V&A Waterfront, this hotel is perfectly located to give you access to both incredible views of the ocean as well as Cape Town City. The One & Only boasts a range of activities including a private spa island, world class dining, temperature controlled pools and with the hotel being situated just minutes away from nearby world famous beaches such as Clifton, there is no Cape Town desire not catered for.

Day 2: One & Only, Cape Town

Meals: Breakfast

Drinks not included

Accommodation: One & Only Cape Town

Luxury hotel located in or near Cape Town

Main Destination: Cape Town

Awake to beautiful views of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront from your private balcony of your Marina Harbour Room. Your room at the One & Only will come standard with everything you would expect from a five star hotel.

Spend the day exploring Cape Town. With the ocean, city and mountain all in close proximity there are multiple options for couples, families or solo travellers in every direction and of every variety. Allow our travel experts to recommend the best activities for your personal tastes during your stay.

Tonight you will experience a safari like you haven't before - a Cape Town Jazz Safari. The night will begin with a visit to the home of a local jazz musician for a local dinner. Learn about the jazz culture and history of South Africa. Following dinner, you will have the option of visiting a 2nd musician's home for a nightcap or be transferred to a vibey jazz venue for the late set.

Be transferred back to the One & Only after the tour is complete.

Day 3-4: One & Only, Cape Town

Meals: Breakfast

Accommodation: One & Only Cape Town

Luxury hotel located in or near Cape Town

Drinks not included

Main Destination: Cape Town

Ker & Downey Africa recommends that you work with our travel experts to best curate experiences for your final two days in Cape Town. All of the planning and organisation for activities and excursions on day 3 and 4 will be pre arranged and taken care of on your behalf, and can be worked into the cost of your experience ahead of time.

From the One & Only, the V&A Waterfront is our first recommended stop, from here you can do a short excursion via ferry to Robben Island, the site where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years, which has become a world renowned historical landmark.

Once back on the mainland, visit the Aquarium, view the underground tunnels of the harbour, enjoy the famous food and wine culture of Cape Town city, with it's high concentration of art galleries, coffee shops, restaurants and boutique stores.

Spend your 4th day exploring Cape Town's more natural side by ascending Table Mountain either by hike or cable car and watch the sun set over the city.

Day 5: One & Only Cape Town - Leeu Estates, Franschhoek

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Leeu Estates

Luxury hotel located in or near Franschhoek

All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Main Destination: Franschhoek (Cape Winelands)

Awake to another beautiful day in Cape Town, enjoy your final breakfast at the world class One & Only, Cape Town, before a road transfer from your hotel to the Cape Winelands. Wind through beautiful vineyards and view the Drakenstein Mountains in the distance as you experience some of South Africa's most beautiful landscapes. After an hour's trip through the region you will arrive at your next accommodation - Leeu Estates.

Enjoy the various activities on offer on your first day in the Winelands either at Leeu Estates or in the greater region. Activities that can be arranged at your accommodation include a spa, gym and relaxing in the reading room for peace and tranquility. Further activities of the area include the Franschhoek wine tram that takes you from world renowned wine farm to renowned wine farm in a traditional tram as you learn about the history of the area, Wineland bike tours as wel as pre arranged wine tastings and food pairings.

Day 6: Leeu Estates, Franschhoek

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch ad Dinner

Accommodation: Leeu Estates

Luxury hotel located in or near Cape Winelands

All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Main Destination: Cape Winelands

Once you have enjoyed a good night's sleep between the tranquil vineyards of the Cape Winelands, enjoy the views of the gardens, farm dam, vineyards and mountains in the distance before exploring at your leisure for the day. Lots to do in Franschhoek.

Day 7: Leeu Estates - Lion Sands Narina Lodge, Kruger National Park

Meals: Breakfast  and Lunch

Accommodation: Lions Sands Narina Lodge

Luxury lodge located inside Kruger NP

Drinking water & alcoholic drinks (Other drinks not included)

Main Destination: Kruger National Park

Wake up this morning to absolute bliss in the Cape Winelands, enjoy another hearty and world class breakfast at Leeu Estate before travelling via road transfer to Cape Town International Airport in under an hour. Once at the airport and following a smooth and pre-arranged check in, you will board your flight to Kruger Mpumulanga International Airport.

Once you have taken in South Africa from the skies and come into land at the KM International Airport, you will be met by a representative from Lions Sands Narina Lodge who will escort you to a chartered vehicle which will be ready to take you to your Lodge Suite.

Narina Lodge is situated amongst the canopy of 100 year old trees overlooking the Sabie River in the Kruger National Park, the height of the lodge as well as the fact that there are only 9 suites provide five star, exclusive game viewing opportunities in a quite retreat at the otherwise busy Kruger National Park.

Day 8-10: Lion Sands Narina Lodge, Kruger National Park

Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner

Accommodation: Lions Sands Narina Lodge

Luxury lodge located inside Kruger NP

All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Main Destination: Kruger National Park

For the following 2 days of your South African experience enjoy the big 5 wildlife encounters of one of South Africa's oldest reserves, having been named a National Park in 1926 in South Africa, the Kruger National Park, viewed on guided game drives, promises to provide you with once in a lifetime wildlife encounters at every turn.

On the night of your 8th day on this journey you will experience one of South Africa's most authentic and natural experiences - sleeping under the stars in a treehouse in the Kruger National Park. As one of the most famous treehouses in Africa, this luxury bedroom is positioned on a 540 square foot deck high above the trees. Enjoy a gourmet picnic basket and experience truly being, safely out in the wild for a night.

Spend your 9th day on game drives or enjoying the range of activities at the lodge including birding with a guide or taking part in a guided walking safari.

Day 11: Lion Sands Narina Lodge - OR Tambo International Airport

Meals: Breakfast

All drinks (Premium wines & liquors might be excluded)

Main Destination: Johannesburg Airport

After your final breakfast at the Lion Sands Narina Lodge, board you road transfer back to Kruger Mpumulanga International Airport where you will fly to OR Tambo International Airport. This brings to an end your South African experience.