South Africa's Natural Wonders
South Africa
10 days from $8,695 per person
* Prices are in US dollars, based on double occupancy.
South Africa's Natural Wonders
Take in breathtaking views of Cape Town, then journey to the marine and wildlife kingdoms of Shamwari Game Reserve and Grootbos Nature Reserve.
Grootbos has coined Living the Futures to explain the way of life on this nature reserve and you’ll find it in every experience brought to life from the expert on the 4x4 botanical safari to the gifted staff. You’ll see the same passion at Shamwari as you meet the wildlife caregivers and safari guides at this a malaria-free private reserve filled with prolific wildlife.
Highlights
Explore the wildlife rich Shamwari Game Reserve, one of the largest private conservation initiatives in Southern Africa, and home to the coveted Big Five.
Discover the breathtaking scenery of the Cape of Good Hope and see the amusing antics of the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach.
Experience an eco boat cruise, in search of South Africa's Marine Big Five, southern right whales, great white sharks, bottlenose dolphins, Cape fur seals and African penguins.
Enjoy a variety of nature-based guided adventures, 4x4 flower safaris, horse riding and quad biking through forests and valleys.
Accommodations
1. Cape Grace
South Africa, Cape Town
Situated on a private quay between the bustling Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and the tranquil yacht marina, Cape Grace Hotel showcases the essence of the Cape with its stylish interiors inspired by Cape Town's heritage and floral kingdom. Elegantly styled with views of the marina or the working harbor, each room features air conditioning, in-room safe, and complimentary Wi-Fi. An outdoor heated swimming pool, library/lounge, a 24-hour fitness studio and spa are additional amenities offered by the hotel. Savor inspired dishes infused with local flavors at Signal Restaurant and don’t leave without appreciating world-class whiskies and the best South African wines at Bascule Bar.
2. Grootbos Forest Lodge
South Africa, Gansbaai
Grootbos Forest Lodge is a masterpiece of sophisticated contemporary design reflecting the breathtaking natural beauty of the surrounding landscape. The individual luxury air conditioned suites, beneath the overhang of Milkwood trees provide the ideal blend of privacy and supreme comfort. Each suite offers a private wooden deck with outside shower, lounge with fireplace, en-suite bathroom with double hand basins, double showers and/or baths, heated towel rails & hair dryers, tea & coffee making facilities, in room safe, a well-stocked mini-bar, under floor heating, free Wi-Fi, satellite TV and DVD player. The contemporary main lodge with its expansive windows features the restaurant, bar, lounge, and curio shop. Spacious wooden decks and an infinity pool beckon you to relax, unwind and enjoy the soothing tranquility. In the evenings cozy fireplaces and subtle lighting enhance the warm, romantic ambience for the finest culinary delight. Savor delectable dishes prepared with organic ingredients produced by their “Growing the Future” project, a Food Production and Life Skills College established by the Grootbos Foundation.
3. Eagles Crag Lodge
Shamwari Private Game Reserve
Eagles Crag Lodge is located in the Shamwari Private Game Reserve. Tucked away and surrounded by imposing mountain cliffs, the lodge offers ultimate luxury, privacy and breathtaking scenery. Exclusive well-secluded suites fashioned in African thatch, glass and stone boast expansive views of the surrounding rock faces, where eagles soar. Each suite features air-conditioning, en-suite bathroom, in and outdoor shower facilities, hairdryer, electronic safe, private minibar, ceiling fan, tea and coffee making facilities and a private deck with plunge pool. The lodge has a library, a bar/cigar lounge complete with fireplace and big screen TV. There is also a business center with Wi-Fi access, a gift boutique, an upstairs lounge with a fireplace that opens onto a terrace, and a Relaxation Retreat with two therapy rooms, hydro bath, steam room and sauna.
Itinerary
Day 1. Arrive Cape Town, South Africa
After a warm welcome by our African Travel, Inc. representative you will be whisked away to your hotel. Settle into your elegant home in South Africa’s ‘Mother City’.
Cape Grace
Day 2. Cape Town
Spend the day exploring the stunning Cape Peninsula. Drive past sparkling beaches, winding your way along legendary Chapman’s Peak to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Continue along the coast to the delightful penguin colony at Boulders Beach. (B)
Cape Grace
Day 3. Cape Town
Relish a leisurely day in Cape Town. Stroll through the Malay Quarter, visit the top of Table Mountain or venture into Stellenbosch and join a guided foodie walk. (B)
Cape Grace
Day 4. Cape Town / Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a luxury eco reserve, renowned for its natural beauty. Accompanied by specialist guides, go on 4x4 flower safari drives, horse riding, bird watching, cave tours, beach visits, and walking trails. (BLD)
Grootbos Forest Lodge
Day 5. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
The reserve is positioned on the doorstep of a marine paradise, and today you will head out for close encounters with Africa’s Marine Big 5. Spend the morning watching whales, sharks, dolphins, seals and penguins as they feed, frolic and play. (BLD)
Grootbos Forest Lodge
Day 6. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve
Grootbos is committed to transforming communities and conserving the environment through the creation of sustainable livelihoods. Participate in the "Progressive Tourism Tour" to learn about the heart of the entire Grootbos experience. It’s about every action we take benefiting someone else or having a positive impact on the environment. (BLD)
Grootbos Forest Lodge
Day 7. Grootbos Private Nature Reserve / Shamwari Game Reserve
Fly to Shamwari Game Reserve, a secluded wildlife haven in the Eastern Cape. Meet your ranger and set out for your first game drive. Keep your eyes peeled for the graceful leopard, the powerful rhino, elephant, lion, buffalo and a multitude of other wildlife. (BLD)
Eagles Crag Lodge
Day 8. Shamwari Game Reserve
Wake up with the chattering birds and grab your camera for your early morning game drive. Your ranger will help you spot all kinds of wildlife from warthogs to honey badgers. This afternoon, look out for hippos submerging along the riverbank and watch for the African fish eagle searching for its dinner. (BLD)
Eagles Crag Lodge
Day 9. Shamwari Game Reserve
Shamwari Game Reserve is about conserving a vanishing way of life. Dedicated to nature conservation, Shamwari strives to educate and promote awareness. In between safari drives, visit the Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre and the Born Free Big Cat Sanctuaries. (BLD)
Eagles Crag Lodge
Day 10. Shamwari Game Reserve / Depart
Take in one last morning game drive before traveling to Port Elizabeth for your flight to Johannesburg and your onward arrangements. (B)
Pricing
Land Arrangements (Price per person)
**Surcharges Apply Jan 01-10, Feb 06-12, Apr 02-05, Dec 15-31 .
Air Arrangements (Internal Airfare)
Cape Town - Port Elizabeth - Johannesburg
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