Soul of South Africa: Culture, Safari & Scenic Wonders
South Africa, Seamlessly Curated: From Bustling Cities to Untamed Safari and Coastal Splendour – Experience It All Without the Guesswork.
Tour Details
Duration
14 days
Price Guide
From $8,499
Activity Level
Easy
Tour Type
Private
Group Size
Max No. Guests
Family Friendly
All Ages
Experience the soul of South Africa where history, culture, and nature come together seamlessly.
Begin in Johannesburg, the country’s cultural and historical heartbeat, where you’ll walk in the footsteps of legends, exploring sites that honor the struggle for freedom—from Soweto and the Apartheid Museum to the vibrant streets of Maboneng. Discover the country’s deep-rooted traditions at Lesedi Village, then take in the breathtaking beauty of the Panorama Route on your way to an unforgettable safari adventure, where Africa’s most iconic wildlife awaits.
Next, head to Cape Town, a city that blends dramatic landscapes with rich heritage. Ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain, explore the historic township of Langa, and visit the legendary Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. Journey along the Cape Peninsula, stopping at Boulders Beach to see the penguins, before indulging in a day of fine wine and breathtaking vineyard views in the Cape Winelands. With expert guides and a meticulously planned itinerary, this tour ensures you experience South Africa with confidence and ease.
Convenient Payment Plans
We offer customized payment schedules are easier on your wallet —making your dream African adventure more accessible than ever.
Lowest Price Guarantee
Book with confidence. We make sure you get the best value for your journey
Book Now, Pay Later
Secure your spot today with a low deposit and pay the rest later. Lock in your dream trip without the upfront stress
Flexible Cancellation Policy
Travel with peace of mind. Unlike many travel companies with strict no-refund policies, we offer a flexible cancellation options—partial refunds are available depending on cancellation date
Grab your spot before its too late!
Act Now – Africa’s Peak Season is approaching!
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Tour Highlights:
- Johannesburg & Soweto Tour – Walk through South Africa’s history in its most vibrant city Apartheid Museum & Mandela House – Gain deep insights into the country’s fight for freedom
- Maboneng Walking Tour – Experience Jo’burg’s artistic and urban revival
- Lesedi Village – Immerse yourself in South Africa’s diverse cultural traditions
- Panorama Route – Take in breathtaking landscapes along one of the country’s most scenic drives
- Safari Drives – Encounter the Big Five and more on an unforgettable wildlife adventure
- Cape Town City & Table Mountain Tour – Explore the beauty of the Mother City from its highest point
- Langa Walking Tour – Connect with the people and history of Cape Town’s oldest township
- Cape Point & Boulders Beach – Stand at the tip of Africa and meet the famous penguins
- Robben Island – Visit the historic prison that once held Nelson Mandela (weather permitting)
- Winelands Tour & Wine Tasting – Savor world-class wines in stunning vineyard settings
INCLUDES:
INCLUDES:
- 11 Meals: 6 breakfasts, 1 lunch, 4 dinners including gratuities
- 6 Nights’ accommodation including porterage
- Transportation including toll fees in air-conditioned vehicles
- Services of a professional English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees as specified in the itinerary
- Bottled water in eco-friendly packaging
EXCLUDES:
All other airfares, air reservations and airport taxes
All other accommodation
All other meals
All other transport
All other sightseeing
All optional tours
Gratuities for meals, tourist guides, drivers, game rangers and trackers
Personal expenses such as alcoholic and other beverages, telephone calls and laundry
VISA REQUIREMENTS
This tour travels through eSwatini (Swaziland). Please check visa requirements, as certain nationalities may require visas to travel through eSwatini (Swaziland).
Flexible Scheduling
Balance work and wanderlust effortlessly with our flexible tour schedules designed to fit your busy lifestyle.
Authentic Safari Experiences
Experience Africa with confidence, knowing our tours are curated by local experts committed to authenticity and responsible travel practices.
Multi-Generational Experiences
Our tours offer activities designed to engage all ages and physical abilities, ensuring every family member enjoys a meaningful experience together.
Balanced Itineraries for All
With flexible schedules and diverse activities, we ensure that both adults and kids stay engaged, balancing relaxation and adventure to satisfy everyone’s interests.
South Africa Odyssey Tour Itinerary
On arrival in Johannesburg at OR Tambo International Airport, you’ll be met by your representative and transferred to your hotel. Johannesburg is the largest and most populous city in South Africa. It is also the source of a large-scale gold and diamond trade due to its location on the mineral-rich Witwatersrand range of hills. The remainder of the day is at leisure and unescorted. Why not enjoy an optional (own account) sightseeing tour of Soweto & Apartheid Museum, learning more about the struggle for freedom in South Africa, or simply relax at your hotel? At 19h00 we will meet at reception for a briefing on the tour and a chance to meet fellow travellers.
Accomodation: 4* Southern Sun Sandton or similar
Depart Johannesburg after breakfast and head for Pretoria, South Africa’s capital city, for a short orientation tour, before continuing to the Mpumalanga Province, known as “Paradise Country”. Dropping several hundred feet into the lush subtropical region of the Lowveld, we travel via the historic towns of Dullstroom and Lydenburg. After traversing the famous Long Tom Pass, we travel via Sabie and arrive late afternoon into Hazyview, the safari hub of the Kruger National Park. [Breakfast & Dinner]
3* Hazyview Sun Hotel or similar x 3 nights
After an early morning breakfast, we’ll drive along the spectacular ‘Panorama Route’, offering views of amazing scenery including the 26-kilometre long Blyde River Canyon (home to the Three Rondavels), Bourke’s Luck Potholes and historic God’s Window, a breath-taking view (weather permitting) of the edge of the escarpment taking in the Kruger National Park. We arrive back in Hazyview in the late afternoon where the remainder of the day is at leisure to relax. [Breakfast & Dinner]
3* Hazyview Sun Hotel or similar x 3 nights
The day begins with early morning coffee or tea, followed by a thrilling open vehicle game safari (with English speaking game ranger) through the Kruger National Park with pre-packed breakfast. Kruger is one of the world’s greatest national parks, home to a stunning array of wildlife. Search for the ‘Big Five’ (rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, and elephant) as well as prolific birdlife and numerous other game species. The game safari includes a presentation of the Anti-Poaching Dog Unit (Project Watchdog), that was established because of the increase in rhino poaching worldwide. Learn about the dogs that are trained to track poachers in the field, detect firearms, ammunition and wildlife products that enter and exit through the Kruger National Park gates. A portion of the trip price of this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience goes towards ensuring that these dogs receive the best possible care in support of the vital work they do. The experience directly advances UN Global Goal 15: Life on Land. The afternoon is at leisure at your hotel. An afternoon open vehicle game drive is available as an extension to the morning game drive (optional and for own account). [Breakfast & Dinner]
3* Hazyview Sun Hotel or similar x 3 nights
This morning, we travel to eSwatini (Swaziland), an independent Kingdom within the borders of South Africa, known for its lovely scenery, crafts and colourful indigenous culture. An interactive cultural experience inclusive of lunch, introduces us to the charming people of eSwatini (Swaziland) and their traditions. We travel via the capital city, Mbabane, to the beautiful Ezulwini Valley for overnight in eSwatini (Swaziland) and a sumptuous dinner at your hotel. [Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner]
3* The Royal Villas or similar x 1 night
After breakfast we will continue south through eSwatini (Swaziland), before re-entering South Africa. Travel into Zululand, passing traditional round huts and endless vistas. There is an option to enjoy an afternoon open vehicle game safari (optional and for own account with an English-speaking game ranger) in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, which contains an immense diversity of fauna and flora and is particularly famous for its conservation of black and white rhino.Overnight in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi region. [Breakfast]
3* Anew Hotel Hotel or similar x 1 night
The day begins with an early breakfast before departing for Durban, travelling past traditional Zulu Kraals, Eucalyptus plantations and sugar cane fields. We arrive at Durban (Umhlanga) airport for the short southward flight to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), where we will be met by our representative and once everyone has arrived, we head westwards along the Garden Route, which follows the Indian Ocean coastline, and is bordered inland by soaring mountain ranges and indigenous forests. Overnight in the Tsitsikamma area. [Breakfast]
3* Tsitsikama Village Inn Hotel or similar x 1 night
After breakfast, visit the spectacularly beautiful Tsitsikamma National Park and Storms River Mouth (weather permitting). The Tsitsikamma National Park incorporates 80 km of rocky coastline with spectacular sea and landscapes, a remote mountainous region with secluded valleys covered in mountain Fynbos and temperate high forests with deep river gorges leading down to the sea. Afterwards we’ll continue our travels to Knysna, known as the oyster box of South Africa, nestling on the banks of a beautiful lagoon, in the heart of the Garden Route. Enjoy a sunset cruise to the Knysna Heads, before sitting down for dinner at Drydock Restaurant, renowned for dishes with glorious aromas and flavours, using the finest local ingredients and freshly picked herbs from the region. [Breakfast & Dinner]
4* Rex Hotel or similar x 1 night
Travel through the Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, known as the “ostrich capital” and the centre of the world’s Ostrich farming industry. Along the way, visit ‘Dolphin Point’, an extraordinary viewpoint in Wilderness. In Oudtshoorn, we’ll visit an Ostrich Farm for a fun filled interactive tour and light lunch that includes local specialities such as Ostrich Steak, before taking a tour of the spectacular limestone caverns of the Cango Caves, one of the world’s great natural wonders, sculpted by nature through the ages. We will arrive at our hotel in the late afternoon, in time to check in and relax before dinner (for own account). Overnight in Oudtshoorn. [Breakfast & Lunch]
4* Hlangana Hotel or similar x 1 night
There is an option (for own account and subject to availability) to enjoy an early morning Meerkat Safari. Witness these incredible wild habituated creatures emerging out of their burrows, in time to soak up the sun before they head about their daily activities (weather permitting). A portion of the monies paid by guests for this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience go towards the Buffelsdrift Foundation, that focusses on Wildlife conservation in the Klein Karoo region, habitat conservation and the local community. The experience directly advances UN Global Goal 15: Life on Land. After this thrilling experience, head back for a delicious breakfast. After breakfast, the journey continues through the ‘Little Karoo’ to Barrydale, where you will have the opportunity to visit a local farm school, to interact with the children and teachers, spending time with them in the classroom, learning more about this rural community. A portion of the trip monies go towards our Barrydale Farm School Development Fund, that supports local education of underprivileged children in rural communities. (The school visit is subject to the school being open). Continue via the Tradouw’s pass to Swellendam and then further to the seaside resort of Hermanus, known as the heart of the whale route, offering the best land-based whale watching (August-November) in the world. Overnight in Hermanus [Breakfast]
4* Auberge Burgundy Boutique Hotel or similar x 3 nights
After a leisurely breakfast, depart Hermanus and continue to Somerset West, travelling via the spectacularly scenic coastal road and then onwards to Stellenbosch, set in the beautiful Cape Winelands. You’ll have some free time to explore the town’s oak-shaded streets, cafés, boutiques, and art galleries before travelling to Cape Town for overnight. [Breakfast]
4* President Hotel or similar x 3 nights
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Perhaps join a sightseeing tour of Cape Town and Table Mountain (own account) or join us for a Marine Big Five Safari (own account), where you may see great white sharks, whales, Cape fur seals and a variety of seabirds on a 2-hour boat cruise with marine biologists on hand to explain more about these amazing animals that visit our shores. Although a small city, Cape Town is packed with sightseeing attractions, excellent bars, cafés, and restaurants as well as colourful craft markets. Enjoy a fun filled evening with interactive entertainment and delectable food at Gold Restaurant. Overnight in Cape Town. [Breakfast & Dinner]
4* President Hotel or similar x 3 nights
Enjoy a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula, offering some of the most spectacular coastal scenery in the world. Drive through Sea Point, the seaside village of Hout Bay (where you can enjoy an optional and for own account seal island boat cruise) and then on to Cape Point where (by tradition) it is said that the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. We'll return to Cape Town by way of Simon's Town, where we visit the Penguin colony at Boulders Beach (entrance fee for own account) and Fish Hoek fishing village. Overnight in Cape Town. [Breakfast]
4* President Hotel or similar x 3 nights
Enjoy some last-minute shopping (unescorted) or sightseeing (own account). The Robben Island Tour (for own account & time permitting), which departs from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, offers a fascinating excursion, or perhaps just wander through the variety of shops and boutiques catering for all tastes and budgets. Later you will be transferred to the airport, harbour, or railway station for your onward journey. [Breakfast]
DEPARTURE DATES - 2025
2, 9, 16, 23 Nov | 7 Dec
FAQ:
Payments & Booking:
To secure your booking, a deposit of $1,000 is required. If you cancel, $500 of the deposit is non-refundable. This fee covers direct costs related to booking, administration, and trip preparation. Specific cancellation deadlines and refund policies will be outlined in your booking agreement.
The final payment for your trip is due 90 days before your departure date. To ensure a smooth travel experience, we recommend making payments on time to avoid any disruptions to your booking
Yes, we offer flexible payment plans! The earlier you book, the more time you have to spread out your payments, making it easier to manage your travel expenses. Our goal is to help you budget comfortably while securing your spot on an unforgettable journey.
We accept credit card payments for all travelers. If you’re booking from Canada, we also accept e-transfers for added convenience.
Yes, solo travelers are required to pay a single supplement fee, as pricing is typically based on double occupancy. The fee varies depending on the trip and accommodations, and we will provide specific details at the time of booking
Cancellations & Refunds
All cancellations must be submitted in writing. Cancellation fees apply as follows:
More than 120 days before departure: You will receive a full refund, minus the $500 non-refundable deposit
120 days or less before departure: 75% of your total payment will be refunded, minus the $500 non-refundable deposit. If international airfare has been booked, its cost will also be deducted from the refund. 90 days or less before departure: No refunds will be provided, as final payments are due and commitments have been made to suppliers.
We strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance at the time of booking, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and baggage protection. If you need to cancel due to an emergency, your insurance policy may cover some or all of your expenses. Please note that if a traveler falls ill during the tour, all medical and hospital expenses are the traveler’s responsibility. Unfortunately, we cannot provide refunds (full or partial) for missed portions of the tour due to illness or unforeseen circumstances.
Yes, if we need to cancel a tour for any reason, you will receive a full refund. We will also work with you to explore alternative travel options if you prefer to reschedule.
Yes, you may transfer your booking to someone else if you find a replacement traveler. However, please be aware that if an airline ticket has been purchased, it is often non-transferable or subject to airline fees and restrictions. While we can transfer the tour portion of your booking, flights will be subject to the airline’s policies. Please contact us as soon as possible to facilitate the transfer process.
Travel Preparation
You must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity from your arrival date. Additionally, South Africa requires at least two blank pages in your passport for entry and exit stamps. Travelers with connecting flights should also check visa and entry requirements for transit countries.
South Africa is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit depends on your interests.
For wildlife safaris: The dry winter months (May to September) offer the best game viewing, as animals gather around water sources.
For Cape Town and the Garden Route: The warm summer months (November to March) are ideal for beaches, vineyards, and outdoor exploration.
For fewer crowds and pleasant weather: The shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) provide a balance of good wildlife viewing and cultural experiences with comfortable temperatures
Bring a sweater or light jacket for cool evenings.
- Comfortable walking shoes or sandals are essential.
- South Africans dress casually, but bringing a couple of dressier outfits for special dinners or events is recommended.
- Safari wear: Neutral colors like khaki, beige, brown, and grey are best for game drives. Mornings can be cool, so pack a lightweight sweater or jacket for early safaris.
Due to bus regulations and internal flight restrictions, each traveler is allowed: One (1) standard-size suitcase One (1) carry-on bag Some international airlines may allow two checked bags, depending on your ticket. If you plan to shop while in South Africa, consider bringing a soft, collapsible bag or purchasing an additional bag locally to accommodate extra souvenirs.
Most hotels provide free WiFi for guests, though the speed and reliability may vary depending on the location. If you need consistent internet access, we recommend purchasing a local SIM card from South African telecommunications providers like Vodacom, MTN, or Telkom.
You can buy a prepaid data and talk-time package upon arrival at the airport or at retail stores. For a more convenient option, eSIM cards are now available and can be activated before you arrive. Providers like Airalo, Holafly, and MTX Connect offer eSIM plans specifically for South Africa, allowing you to stay connected without needing a physical SIM card. These options are ideal for travelers who want seamless connectivity without the hassle of swapping SIM cards. Alternatively, apps like WhatsApp, Skype, and Google Voice allow you to stay connected using WiFi without needing a local number.
Accommodation & Transport:
We carefully curate our hotels to ensure they meet our high standards of comfort, quality, and authenticity. Each property is hand-selected for its exceptional service, prime location, and ability to enhance your overall travel experience.
Whether you are staying in a boutique hotel, a luxury resort, or a charming lodge, you can expect a blend of modern amenities, cultural ambiance, and warm hospitality.
Absolutely!
For Group Tours: You may upgrade your room category within the designated hotel (e.g., from a standard room to a luxury suite). However, all guests on a group tour must stay at the same hotel.
For Private Tours: You have the flexibility to upgrade within the selected hotel or choose an entirely different, higher-category property to suit your preferences.
Group Tours: We use modern, air-conditioned buses, with the size of the vehicle depending on the group size. These buses are spacious, comfortable, and reliable, ensuring a smooth journey.
Private Tours: We typically use 7-seater vehicles for a more personalized and flexible travel experience. Regardless of the type of tour, all our vehicles are carefully selected to meet the highest standards of safety, comfort, and efficiency.
Yes! We provide seamless airport transfers both upon arrival and departure. Our professional drivers will be waiting for you at the airport with your arrival details in hand. In case of flight delays or changes, our team will adjust accordingly to ensure a stress-free experience.
Health:
Yes! We ask all clients about dietary restrictions and allergies prior to departure to ensure we are fully prepared. We can accommodate most dietary needs, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, and other specific requests.
This depends on your itinerary. If you plan to visit a malaria-risk area, such as certain safari destinations, you may need to take appropriate precautions. We strongly recommend visiting a travel clinic before departure to discuss vaccinations and health requirements based on your travel plans.
Experiences & Activities:
We offer both private and group tours:
Private Tours: These tours are exclusively for your party (two or more travelers), giving you a dedicated driver and guide. This allows for greater flexibility-you can visit sites that interest you, spend more or less time at different locations, and enjoy a personalized experience.
Group Tours: Traveling with a group comes with great benefits:
- Hassle-Free Planning: We handle all the details, so you can relax and enjoy.
- Shared Experiences: Connect with like-minded travelers and create lasting memories.
- Great Value: Enjoy high-quality experiences at a competitive price.
- Peace of Mind: Travel with a structured and secure group, guided by experts.
Our group tours typically range from 10 to 25 travelers
Please refer to the detailed itinerary on the tour page for a full list of included activities. If you'd like to add an activity, let us know—we’d be happy to accommodate your request. We also have a list of optional tours which can be added to your itinerary if you wish.
Yes! All private tours can be tailored to your preferences. We frequently customize itineraries to align with our clients' interests, ensuring a personalized and unforgettable experience.
Yes! Most of our tours are family-friendly and can be tailored for multi-generational families or groups of friends. We ensure that activities align with your group’s physical abilities and comfort levels. If needed, we can also arrange different activities for varying fitness levels at the same time, ensuring a balanced and enjoyable experience for everyone.
Absolutely!
We can extend any itinerary up to six weeks prior to departure. If you decide to extend your stay while in South Africa, we can assist you with accommodations and logistics, provided there is enough time to make the necessary arrangements. Please note that travelers can stay in South Africa for up to three months before requiring a visa.
Community:
We kindly ask that you do not give money directly to children in the townships. However, small souvenirs from Canada or the USA—such as stickers, mini flags, or postcards—are always appreciated. Additionally, school supplies like notebooks, reading books, and coloring materials can be meaningful gifts.
For those looking to make a lasting impact, we collaborate with a non-profit organization that connects visitors with community programs. If a particular initiative resonates with you, we encourage you to donate directly online to support sustainable, community-driven efforts.
In South Africa, a township refers to an urban residential area that was historically designated for non-white populations during apartheid. Today, townships are vibrant and culturally rich communities that showcase the resilience, creativity, and entrepreneurial spirit of their residents.
Our educational excursions offer an authentic, respectful, and immersive experience, focusing on history, culture, and community-driven initiatives. We prioritize ethical tourism by highlighting local businesses, artists, and changemakers, ensuring that visits contribute positively to the communities we engage with.
We offer a unique approach to travel focusing on purposeful exploration through our expertly curated tours. Each journey is designed to provide our travelers with meaningful experiences that go beyond sightseeing, fostering deeper connections with local cultures, environments and communities. Whether you are seeking eco-conscious adventures or immersive cultural engagements.
