Classic South Africa
Iconic Coastlines, Whale Watching & Big Five Safari
13 Day Itinerary
Discover the ever-changing landscapes and rich cultural experiences that make South Africa such a rewarding country to explore. Begin in Cape Town, where oceanfront stays, Table Mountain and historic neighbourhoods set the tone for a breathtaking journey through one of the world’s most scenic cities. Wander the V&A Waterfront, explore heritage landmarks and enjoy exceptional dining as you settle into the rhythm of coastal life.
Continue to Hermanus for dramatic cliff-edge views and the chance to spot whales breaching offshore during the season. With its relaxed pace, coastal paths and boutique charm, it offers a refreshing contrast to the energy of Cape Town. Your adventure concludes in the Limpopo province on a Big Five safari, where expert trackers lead morning and evening drives through pristine wilderness.
This 13 Day Itinerary Includes:
- 4 nights in The Winchester Boutique Hotel – Junior Suite Seaview, Bed & Breakfast, Cape Town
- 2 nights in Harbour House Hotel – Sky Sea View Studio, Bed & Breakfast, Hermanus
- 4 nights in Karongwe Becks Safari Lodge – Deluxe Safari Suite, Fully Inclusive, Karongwe Private Game Reserve
- 2 nights in 54 on Bath – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast, Johannesburg
- Private guided sightseeing in Cape Town
- Franschhoek Wine Tram Experience
- Internal flights: Cape Town to Hoedspruit & Hoedspruit to Johannesburg
- Morning and evening game drives in Karongwe Private Game Reserve
- International flights not included – available on request
Prices from £3,255pp
Day 1 – 2
Day 1 – Arrival in Cape Town
Arrive at Cape Town International Airport and transfer privately to your hotel on the Sea Point Promenade. Enjoy time to settle in, stroll the oceanfront pathways, or take in sunset from the hotel’s terrace.
Overnight: The Winchester Boutique Hotel – Junior Suite Seaview, Bed & Breakfast
Day 2 – Cape Town City Tour & Table Mountain
A private guided tour introduces Cape Town’s most important landmarks, including the Castle of Good Hope and the historic Bo-Kaap district. Ride the cable car to the top of Table Mountain (weather permitting) for sweeping views across the city and ocean. Afternoon at leisure to enjoy the promenade or relax by the pool.
Overnight: The Winchester Boutique Hotel – Junior Suite Seaview, Bed & Breakfast
Day 3 – 4
Day 3 – Cape Peninsula & Seal Island
Discover the dramatic coastline of the Cape Peninsula. Travel via Camps Bay and Chapman’s Peak Drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Visit Boulders Beach to see the African penguin colony and take an optional boat ride to Seal Island from Hout Bay. Return via scenic coastal roads with time to enjoy the hotel’s sea views.
Overnight: The Winchester Boutique Hotel – Junior Suite Seaview, Bed & Breakfast
Day 4 – Robben Island & Franschhoek Wine Tram
Board the ferry to Robben Island (weather permitting) to learn about Nelson Mandela’s legacy and South Africa’s struggle for freedom. Continue into the Winelands for a relaxed journey aboard the Franschhoek Wine Tram, stopping at celebrated estates for tastings before returning to Cape Town.
Overnight: The Winchester Boutique Hotel – Junior Suite Seaview, Bed & Breakfast
Day 5 – 6
Day 5 – Transfer to Hermanus
Private transfer to Hermanus, known as the whale-watching capital of South Africa (seasonal viewing). Explore the clifftop walkways overlooking Walker Bay or discover cafés, boutiques and galleries in the town centre.
Overnight: Harbour House Hotel – Sky Sea View Studio, Bed & Breakfast
Day 6 – Coastal Relaxation & Ocean Views
A day to enjoy Hermanus your way – relax by the infinity pool with ocean views, explore local beaches, or follow a guided coastal trail in search of dolphin sightings. Optional marine excursions such as whale watching (seasonal) can be arranged on request.
Overnight: Harbour House Hotel – Sky Sea View Studio, Bed & Breakfast
Day 7 – 9
Day 7 – Fly to Hoedspruit & Safari Begins
Fly from Cape Town to the Greater Kruger region and transfer to Karongwe Becks Safari Lodge. Enjoy your first evening game drive tracking wildlife with expert rangers and trackers, followed by dinner beneath the stars.
Overnight: Karongwe Becks Safari Lodge – Deluxe Safari Suite, Fully Inclusive
Days 8–9 – Big Five Safari
Two full days of immersive safari, with dawn and dusk game drives through the reserve in search of lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Between drives, relax by the pool or visit the lodge spa. Enjoy gourmet meals and sundowners each evening in the African bush.
Overnight: Karongwe Becks Safari Lodge – Deluxe Safari Suite, Fully Inclusive
Day 10 – 11
Day 10 – Final Safari Encounters
A final early-morning drive offers more wildlife viewing opportunities — often the most active time of day. Afternoon at leisure, enjoying the lodge deck overlooking the river.
Overnight: Karongwe Becks Safari Lodge – Deluxe Safari Suite, Fully Inclusive
Day 11 – Travel to Johannesburg
Fly to Johannesburg and transfer privately to your stylish hotel in Rosebank. Enjoy the exclusive rooftop terrace and Champagne Bar or unwind with a swim.
Overnight: 54 on Bath – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
Day 12 – 13
Day 12 – Johannesburg & Soweto Highlights
Join a guided tour exploring Johannesburg’s history and vibrant culture. Visit Constitution Hill, the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Vilakazi Street in Soweto — a hub of local life and important heritage.
Overnight: 54 on Bath – Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
Day 13 – Departure
Private transfer to O.R. Tambo International Airport for your international flight home.
Additional Inspiration
Browse our other destination itineraries and blog posts for insider tips, personalised recommendations, and advice on avoiding tourist traps – helping make every journey smoother, smarter, and more memorable.
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