An Afr
05 - 29 June 2026
An African Adventure
05 - 29 June 2026
Day 1 : Auckland
Guests from regional New Zealand fly to Auckland this afternoon where we overnight.
Meal inclusions: Snacks
Day 2 : Auckland - Johannesburg
Depart Auckland early this morning bound for Johannesburg, the "City of Gold". Afternoon arrival, transfer to hotel and overnight.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, lunch on board flight and dinner.
Day 3 : Johannesburg - Chobe River
This morning, after breakfast, we return to the airport for our flight to Kasane, Botswana where we clear immigration formalities and cross the Chobe River into neighbouring Namibia. Travelling a short distance by boat we arrive at our secluded safari lodge, nestled beneath a lush riverine canopy on Impalila Island. This afternoon we set off on our first river safari. Watch the hippo wallowing in the cool river, see crocodile basking in the sun and perhaps this afternoon we will be treated to a herd of elephant enjoying a dip in the river. We return to the lodge at sunset for dinner and overnight. As you drift off to sleep in your luxurious Meru-style tent, you'll be embracing the romance and charm of the classic safari accommodation.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 4 : Chobe River
Let's start this morning with a choice of adventures. Whether you’re inclined to embark on an early morning river safari or test your fishing skills for Tiger Fish, Bream, or Tilapia in the Chobe, the decision is yours. If a leisurely lie-in sounds appealing, that’s entirely fine too. After our morning activities, relax at the lodge until we transfer by boat to the Chobe Princess for our two-night river cruise. Later this afternoon we're back on the tender boats for another river safari. The Chobe River is teeming with birdlife, hosting over 450 species and providing endless opportunities for birding enthusiasts. Keep your eyes peeled for both majestic land and water animals as well as the birdlife that call this beautiful ecosystem home. Go to sleep tonight listening to the sounds of Africa and the waters of the Chobe lapping our houseboat.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 5 : Chobe River
You barely need to lift your head off the pillow to watch this spectacular part of Africa roll on by as we cruise the Chobe River. Our day starts with an early morning river safari by tender boat. Early mornings and late afternoons can be a hive of activity on the river where lion, leopard, giraffe, elephant, buffalo, hippo, antelope, baboons and monkeys amongst others may come down to the river to take their fill. We return to the Chobe Princess for a hearty breakfast and then visit a traditional African village this morning for an insightful look at life in a typical rural Namibian village. Lunch is enjoyed aboard the Chobe Princess then put your feet up and relax until our late afternoon river safari. Sunset on the Chobe is a sight to behold and a memory that will remain with you.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 6 : Chobe River - Victoria Falls
Our leisurely sojourn on the Chobe River ends today as we cruise back towards the town of Kasane. We bid Namibia farewell, cross over into Botswana then make our way by road to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Thoughts turn to the early pioneers who literally walked from the Cape Colony to Matabele North, a distance of some 2500kms. Imagine their astonishment when, in this parched countryside, they came upon the immense chasm and gorges of the spectacular Victoria Falls!
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 7 : Victoria Falls
The Victoria Falls lie halfway along the course of the 2700km long mighty Zambezi River. Here the water plunges 100m into the chasm to create the largest curtain of water in the world, which, at the height of the high water season, stretches the full 1.7km width of the river. Following our morning tour of the Falls we visit the local curio market then this afternoon is at leisure for you to relax and enjoy the facilities at the lodge or take part in one of the optional adventure activities on offer.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 8 : Victoria Falls - Cape Town.
Elegant Nyala, ever hungry warthog and mischievous vervet monkey's are just some of the animals you may see in the grounds of the lodge this morning. Enjoy your breakfast overlooking the waterhole with views that stretch across the African bush forever. Late morning we make our way to the airport for a flight to Cape Town, South Africa, surely the most picturesque city on the continent and the "Mother City" as she is affectionately known.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 9 : Cape Town
Following breakfast we begin today's adventure with a fascinating walking tour through the streets of Cape Town. Our local Guide uses the streets of the city, old buildings and squares, people and places as props to develop the story of Dutch and British rule, slavery and apartheid, freedom and democracy. Cape Town lies at the foot of the majestic Table Mountain and next we board a cable car to the top of the mountain for stunning views over the city and surrounding Cape Peninsula. This afternoon we are off to Langa, the oldest of Cape Town's high-density townships. We take an informative walk through the streets of Langa where our Guide relates what it was like growing up in the township, its past, its present and what the future holds for its residents.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 10 : Cape Town
Discover the beauty of nature this morning with a leisurely stroll through the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, noted for its abundant collection of indigenous plants which reveal the vibrant colors and unique fragrances of South Africa's flora. We continue on to Groot Constantia, the oldest vineyard in the Cape, established by Commander Simon van der Stel in 1679. Tucked away on the eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Groot Constantia is the ideal setting for the production of top-quality wines which you will have the opportunity to sample today. Following lunch we make our way to the V & A Waterfront, home to over 450 world class retailers and very much the heart of this vibrant city.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 11 : Cape Town - Stellenbosch
Our touring today takes us around the spectacular Cape Peninsula. We journey along the dramatic Chapman's Peak Drive, widely regarded as one of South Africa's most scenic roads, en-route to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. At Cape Point we take the funicular to the vantage point for a magnificent view over the Cape of Good Hope and across the bay to the distant Hottentot's Holland Mountains. Continuing towards the historic naval town of Simons Town we call at Boulders Beach, a protected inlet and home to a colony of African Penguin. Our day's activities conclude with our arrival in the picturesque town of Stellenbosch our destination for the next two nights.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 12 : Stellenbosch
The Dutch introduced vines to the Cape in the mid 1600's and the charming town of Stellenbosch has grown up out of the wine industry in the region. This morning savour traditional food and drink as we wander the historic streets of South Africa's second oldest town and learn about the history of this area. After a traditional heritage lunch the afternoon is at leisure. Perhaps you would like to relax and sample more of the wines produced locally. Maybe a spot of shopping is on your agenda. Whatever your fancy, there's free time for you to wander and enjoy.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, lunch & dinner.
Day 13 : Stellenbosch - Swellendam
Leaving Stellenbosch this morning we travel over the majestic mountains towards the town of Robertson. Here we break our journey for an insightful visit to Marbrin Olive Farm where we learn about everything olives! Our journey takes us along Route 62, the longest wine route in the world and through the towns of the semi desert, Klein Karoo. Our destination tonight is Swellendam another quaint and picturesque town nestled in the Overberg region of South Africa, known for its rich history and beautiful landscapes. Surrounded by breathtaking mountains and lush greenery Swellendam is South Africa's third oldest town after Cape Town and Stellenbosch.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 14 : Swellendam - Oudtshoorn
The Overberg region is often referred to as the breadbasket of the Cape as much wheat is grown in this area as well as large apple orchards in the Elgin Valley. Our journey today takes us along the Tradouw Pass through the Langeberg Mountains, back onto Route 62, into the Klein Karoo and onwards to our destination Oudtshoorn, celebrated as the "Feather Capital of South Africa". Sample an Ostrich steak for lunch today, succulent low fat and low cholesterol, it has become a firm favourite with many a Kiwi who has visited Oudtshoorn. This afternoon we take a safari through the ostrich farm and learn how these birds are commercially farmed in the region.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, lunch & dinner
Day 15 : Oudtshoorn
This day begins with a guided tour of the spectacular Cango Caves in the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains. Considered one of South Africa's prime natural wonders, the caves are home to some of the largest stalagmite and stalactite formations in the world. Next we call at the Cango Wildlife Ranch where you have an opportunity to view the wildlife up close and learn about the ranch's involvement with conservation of many endangered species. There's time for a wander around the small shopping complex in Oudtshoorn then relax and enjoy the serene ambience and rural surrounds of our accommodation in the Klein Karoo.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 16 : Oudtshoorn - Plettenberg Bay
The route out of Oudtshoorn and over the Outeniqua Mountains follows the ancient routes of the elephants and takes us towards the City of George and onwards to the town of Knysna. Here we break our journey at the picturesque Knysna Quays Waterfront where you may take a leisurely stroll, indulge in delicious local cuisine and explore the unique shops that line the quay. We continue on this afternoon to a South African dairy farm situated on the outskirts of the town of Plettenberg Bay. See how dairy farming is done in this part of the world, hear about the challenges and learn about the innovations with many similarities to dairying in New Zealand and many differences too.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 17 : Plettenberg Bay area
After a scrumptious breakfast, today's adventure takes us along the coast to Birds of Eden, said to be the largest free flight aviary in the world. Covering some 23 000 square metres of forest it is home to over 3500 specimens and 280 species of African birds. A guided walk through the aviary is an excellent way to learn about these beautiful birds. Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary is the world’s first free-roaming multi-species sanctuary. Here we take an unforgettable monkey safari, walking alongside and amongst these captivating and often comical creatures. Experience their playful antics and learn about their unique behaviors in a natural setting, it's a truly immersive adventure that you won't want to miss.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 18 : Plettenberg Bay - White River
As our time in the Cape Province draws to a close today as we make our way back to the Knysna Waterfront for a spot of last minute shopping. We then head north flying from George to Johannesburg and then connecting on to Nelspruit, gateway to the stunning national parks of northeast South Africa, where more adventure awaits!
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 19 - The Panorama Route
The province of Mpumalanga borders Eswatini (Swaziland) to the south and Mozambique to the east and it is in this province that some of the earliest signs of life on earth have been found with microbial fossils dating back some 3.22 billion years. The Panorama Route, so called for its magnificent scenery, is our touring route today. We’ll view the spectacular Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon on earth, visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes, a fascinating geological feature of the area and enjoy the superb vistas from God’s Window before returning to White River in the late afternoon..
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner.
Day 20 White River - Sabi Sands Reserve
Leaving the lodgings of our fine country estate we make our way this morning to the coveted, private, Sabi Sands Game Reserve which borders the renowned Kruger National Park. Game viewing opportunities here are simply unparalleled as the fences that once separated the Kruger Park from the Sabi Sands have long gone and the wildlife is free to roam in this immense natural environment. The reserve now totals some 19,500 square kilometres, it is approximately 360kms long and averages 65kms wide, though at its widest it is 90kms from east to west. You've enjoyed game viewing by boat, now for a totally different perspective we game view from purpose built safari vehicles. Enjoy an afternoon game drive this afternoon before retiring to the safari lodge for a delicious dinner and overnight.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast, high tea & dinner.
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Day 21 - Sabi Sands Reserve
Our day begins with coffee and rusks before we set off on an early morning game drive. Our lodge is located on the banks of the lush Sand River, an oasis for the wildlife of this area. With over 9,000 hectares of traversing wilderness, opportunities to see an array of wildlife abound. We return for brunch mid-morning and then relax and enjoy the warm hospitality at the lodge. If you are up to it, perhaps join one of the Game Rangers later in the day for an educational bush walk where you will learn about animal tracks, dung, hiding spots and other fascinating information concerning the flora and fauna. After high tea it is time for another game drive.
Meal inclusions: Brunch, high tea & dinner.
From the Game Ranger’s Diary……………This morning the guests were very keen to see a leopard, so we decided to head east and search for tracks. On our way there we found a large herd of elephant – at least thirty individuals. It was a very relaxed herd feeding all around the vehicle. We left the herd of elephants and proceeded eastwards and as if it was scripted, Lamula – a large male leopard – was lying right next to the road sunning himself. He eventually got up and started to head south. A common duiker caught his attention and he began to stalk it. He was about four metres away when he stood on a twig, and the sound gave away his position, giving the little duiker a chance for a quick get away. This afternoon, as if ordered, a healthy breeding herd of elephants came down to drink at the dam while we were having high tea. We immediately set off to acquaint ourselves with our super-sized visitors. As we drove around the dam, the herd had just started to disperse on the open area. Smaller family groups lazed around as if on a community picnic. Going from group to group we were treated to glimpses into the private lives of these great pachyderms. As youngsters played and moms did what moms do on such occasions – catch up with family members – a young bull elephant of about two years old flexed his tiny muscles, approaching the vehicle with a display of threatening behaviour, and then charging off to his mother as he lost his nerve. We left the elephants to attend to their business and headed east as lions were on the wish list this evening. Meandering through the bush on winding roads, in golden sunshine, we were once more reminded of just how special this area really is. We were in luck - lions had killed a buffalo close to a dam in the northeastern portion of our area. Heading in that direction, we were treated to sightings of zebra, nyala, bushbuck, wildebeest and giraffe. We found a well-fed pride lounging around the dam and we watched two young lions feeding and scrapping around the buffalo carcass. After a time the pride settled down to the business of digesting a large portion of buffalo already consumed, and we bade them farewell.
Day 22 - Sabi Sands Reserve
An early morning game drive is on the agenda once again this morning. The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is home to the much sought after "Big 5" Buffalo, Elephant, Lion, Leopard, and Rhino and the possibilities to see these and a host of other wildlife is unrivalled. There are many creatures in this reserve and the highly trained Game Rangers and Trackers do their utmost to ensure you go home with memories to last a lifetime. Return to the safari lodge for brunch and then perhaps position yourself on the viewing platform and see what wildlife wanders through the area before we set off on our final game drive this afternoon.
Meal inclusions: Brunch, high tea & dinner.
Day 23 - Sabi Sands - Sydney
Sadly as the sun sets today so it sets too on our African Adventure as we begin our journey back to New Zealand with a flight back to Johannesburg and then onwards and overnight to Sydney.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast. Dinner served on flight.
Day 24 - Sydney - Auckland
We arrive in Sydney in the afternoon and connect on to Auckland arriving in the late evening. Overnight tonight in Auckland for those guests' resident in the regions.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast & dinner on flights.
Day 25 - Auckland - home
Morning flights to regional points in New Zealand.
Meal inclusions: Breakfast
Price: $24 985.00 per person twin share ex Auckland*.
$25 765.00 per person twin share ex New Plymouth. Please enquire for other domestic points in New Zealand
$ 5 980.00 single supplement ex Auckland*.
$ 6 320.00 single supplement ex New Plymouth. Please enquire for other domestic points in New Zealand
* Ex Auckland price excludes domestic flights within New Zealand and accommodation in Auckland pre and post tour.
What's included:
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Flights to, from and within Africa in Economy Class. Options to upgrade to Premium Economy or Business Class on the long-haul sectors.
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Services of a Tour Leader ex New Zealand and local Guides in Africa.
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Ground transportation in air conditioned vehicles.
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Quality accommodation throughout in graded establishments.
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Full breakfast and dinner daily, on many days all meals are included, as per itinerary above.
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All entrance fees to sightseeing attractions, National Park fees and Government levies.
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Tips and gratuities.
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Visa charges.
What's not included:
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Travel insurance.
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Items of a personal nature such as laundry, drinks, excess baggage, spa services etc.
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Optional activities at Victoria Falls.
Please note this itinerary is subject to amendment and final confirmation.