Today, enjoy a guided morning tour of Cape Town’s most iconic sights, including Table Mountain.
Begin with a drive past key landmarks such as the Castle of Good Hope, the Grand Parade and the baroque-style City Hall. Travel along Adderley Street, where you will see Saint George’s Cathedral, the Anglican Diocese of Nobel Peace Laureate Archbishop Desmond Tutu. Pass by the peaceful Company’s Garden before continuing to the historic Cape Malay Quarter, also known as Bo-Kaap, where the cobbled streets and colourful houses reflect the cultural heritage of the Cape Malay community.
Next, discover the history of South Africa’s Diamond and Gold Trade with a visit to a diamond-cutting and jewellery manufacturing demonstration, where skilled experts showcase the craftsmanship behind these precious stones.
Finally, weather permitting, ascend to the top of Table Mountain via the revolving cable car, where you can admire breathtaking views of the city, its beaches, and, on a clear day, even Robben Island and Cape Point.
The rest of the afternoon is yours at leisure.
Please Note: Table Mountain visit is weather dependent. Table Mountain is closed to visitors between July – August (subject to change) for annual maintenance.
The Winchester Hotel stay
After breakfast, depart on a full-day tour of the Winelands. Located only a 45-minute drive from Cape Town’s coast, these picturesque towns within the Boland region date back to the 17th and 18th centuries. They boast Cape Dutch architecture, providing a sense of South Africa’s colonial history, as do the Village Museum’s period houses and gardens.
Begin the day in Paarl, a town set against a backdrop of rolling vineyards and dramatic mountain ranges. Visit a local estate for a wine tasting and a cellar tour before continuing on to Franschhoek Valley – the gourmand heart of the country – where splendid wines and tantalising international cuisine are created. Here, a wine tasting awaits at one of the region’s renowned estates, with stunning views of the surrounding vineyards and towering peaks.
Continue to the beautiful town of Stellenbosch for a guided walking tour down oak-shaded streets brimming with cafes, boutiques and art galleries, passing a mix of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian buildings that reflect its long winemaking heritage. Enjoy a final wine tasting at a carefully selected winery.
Perhaps select a bottle of your favourite vintage to bring back and enjoy during a slow evening as you return to Cape Town late this afternoon.
The Winchester Hotel stay
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before your transfer to The Blue Train at Cape Town Train Station. You’ll be offered a light snack and drinks in the Blue Train pre-departure lounge before being ushered aboard by your coach’s personal butler. Then, departing at noon, this premier ‘hotel-on-wheels’ will speed you toward captivating Johannesburg.
The ultimate in luxury rail travel, The Blue Train has been operating since 1946 and gives you a unique and glamorous way in which to observe South Africa’s magnificent landscapes and landmarks. Indulge in world-class cuisine and the finest South African wines while golden grasslands and the sub-tropical bushveld unfold outside the coaches’ panoramic windows.
The Blue Train journey
Enjoy a relaxing morning with breakfast on board, with free leisure time until a delicious lunch.
Early this afternoon, stop at Kimberley Station and disembark for a three-hour excursion in this well-known gem region. Kimberley is the capital of the Northern Cape province and has notoriety due both to its historical diamond-mining industry and a siege during the Second Boer War. Entrepreneurs Cecil Rhodes and Barney Barnato made their fortunes here. The famed diamond company, De Beers, traces its roots to the early days of its mining town.
Enjoy a tour of the Kimberley Mine Museum followed by a visit to the Big Hole, an open pit and underground mine claimed to be the largest hole in the world excavated by hand.
Return to your train and toast to your adventures with a sherry. The rest of the day is at leisure – sit back, relax and watch the passing scenery from the privacy of your De Luxe Suite. High tea is available in the Lounge Car and cognac and cigars are served in the Club Car after a formal dinner service.
The Blue Train journey
Wake to a refined breakfast and watch the golden morning light spread across Africa’s plains while sipping your morning coffee or tea. Today the train will cross the northwest provinces of South Africa en route to Johannesburg.
As evening approaches, arrive at Pretoria Station and receive a transfer to The Residence Hotel. Boasting designer suites and luxe facilities, this hotel delivers impeccable service from the moment you arrive.
Once your check-in is complete, you have the remainder of the day to explore at your leisure. Set out to discover the jacaranda-lined streets of the Houghton neighbourhood or stay in to take advantage of this boutique retreat with a dip in the pool or a brief session in the aerobics room. Boasting designer suites and luxe facilities, this hotel delivers impeccable service from the moment you arrive.
The Blue Train journey
The Residence Hotel stay
This morning, take a group transfer to O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB). Board your flight to Hoedspruit, gateway to the open grasslands of the Blue Canyon Private Game Reserve — the world-renowned game reserve adjacent to Kruger National Park, a conservation area that serves to protect lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo.
Your home for the next three nights is the incredible Moditlo River Lodge. With a name aptly translating to ‘place of the elephant’, this safari setup offers unparalleled game-sighting opportunities with superb views over the grasslands. Ramble through the grounds or spend time on the outdoor pool deck with a drink in hand while you look out over the African bushveld. Exquisite dining and expert guides will make your stay one to remember.
Over the next two days, get ready to experience exceptional game viewing in the hands of experts at Moditlo River Lodge. Daily drives in the Blue Canyon Private Game Reserve are led by professional and passionate rangers and trackers who have a wealth of knowledge with which to unravel the intricate nuances of the African bush. From herds of elephants to elusive big cats, you’ll come face-to-face with Africa’s most iconic wildlife.
Choose from an array of optional activities (surcharges apply, bookable at the hotel). Perhaps you’ll drift silently above the plains on a breathtaking hot air balloon safari, watching the sunrise over the bush as you spot animals from a bird’s-eye view. Explore the legendary Panorama Route, where dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls and the vast Blyde River Canyon create one of South Africa’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. For those passionate about conservation, a visit to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre offers an intimate look at rescued wildlife and the vital work being done to protect them.
Back at the lodge, unwind with a rejuvenating spa treatment (additional charges apply) infused with African botanicals or simply soak in the serenity of the reserve. With all your meals included, end each night by remarking on the natural wonders you’ve seen over cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, served in the open air accompanied by the serenade of the African bushland. Don’t forget to stop into the cocktail lapa for a pre-dinner cocktail, a glass of wine or post-meal digestif and unwind by a crackling fire.
Blue Canyon Private Game Reserve wildlife safari
Experience exceptional game viewing in the hands of experts at Moditlo River Lodge. Daily drives in the Blue Canyon Private Game Reserve are led by professional and passionate rangers and trackers who have a wealth of knowledge with which to unravel the intricate nuances of the African bush. From herds of elephants to elusive big cats, you’ll come face-to-face with Africa’s most iconic wildlife.
Choose from an array of optional activities (surcharges apply). Perhaps you’ll drift silently above the plains on a breathtaking hot air balloon safari, watching the sunrise over the bush as you spot animals from a bird’s-eye view. Explore the legendary Panorama Route, where dramatic cliffs, cascading waterfalls and the vast Blyde River Canyon create one of South Africa’s most awe-inspiring landscapes. For those passionate about conservation, a visit to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre offers an intimate look at rescued wildlife and the vital work being done to protect them.
Back at the lodge, unwind with a rejuvenating spa treatment (additional charges apply) infused with African botanicals or simply soak in the serenity of the reserve. With all your meals included, end each night by remarking on the natural wonders you’ve seen over cuisine prepared with locally sourced ingredients, served in the open air accompanied by the serenade of the African bushland. Don’t forget to stop into the cocktail lapa for a pre-dinner cocktail, a glass of wine or post-meal digestif and unwind by a crackling fire.
Blue Canyon Private Game Reserve wildlife safari
Fuel up for the day ahead with a hearty breakfast before checking out and transferring to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP) for your flight to Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) or Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (LVI), Zambia. You’re now upon the threshold of the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the original natural wonders of the world.
On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your opulent accommodation. The oldest luxury hotel in Zimbabwe, Victoria Falls Hotel is a five-star haven offering a sense of tranquillity amid serene lily ponds and broad verandas overlooking the majestic Victoria Falls.
This evening you’ll enjoy an unforgettable sunset cruise on the mighty Zambezi River. Relax and sip on a sundowner as you enjoy views of the waterland vegetation and wildlife – including unique birds, hippos and the occasional crocodile. In the drier months, wildlife such as elephants and antelopes can be seen grazing on the riverbanks or swimming to the smaller islands.
Please note: Airports will be confirmed closer to departure.
Zambezi River sunset cruise
Today, enjoy a tour of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. To the locals, this incredible formation is known as Mosi-oa-Tunya, or ‘the Smoke that Thunders’ – an accurate description of the vision seen when waters of the Zambezi River plunge over a 1,700-metre-wide and 100-metre-deep chasm, creating a mist of spray and a mighty roar.
Your guide will take you on an exploration of the Zimbabwean side of the falls – visit the Eastern Cataract of the falls and cross the footbridge to the Knife Edge where you’ll get a perfect vantage point of the waterfall as well as the ‘boiling pot’ where the river turns and heads down the Botoka Gorge.
A highlight today is an included scenic helicopter flight that allows you to see Victoria Falls from an entirely different perspective. You’ll take an unforgettable 12-minute flight where you’ll be able to truly witness the sheer size and beauty of this natural phenomenon.
The afternoon is at your leisure – relax on the beautiful hotel grounds or set out for further exploring on your own.
Victoria Falls scenic helicopter flight
Enjoy breakfast at your hotel before checking out and transferring to Victoria Falls Airport (VFA). Here, a representative from Zambezi Cruise Safaris will assist you with your light charter flight to the Deka Airstrip (FVDE).
On arrival, continue by shared road transfer to Msuna Island Jetty, then take a short tender-boat ride to The Zambezi Trader. With just 29 cabins, this luxurious vessel is an intimate way to experience the waterways of Zimbabwe, with opportunities for game viewing, fishing and wildlife photography. Onboard facilities include a spa, fitness centre, library and pool, providing plenty of space to relax between adventures.
Settle into your King Suite on Deck C, where a private balcony overlooks the sparkling water. The houseboat then begins its journey down the Zambezi River towards the islands of Elephant Bay.
Toast the start of your three-night cruise with sundowner drinks as evening settles over the river, followed by dinner onboard. Your all-inclusive stay covers all meals, selected locally branded beers and spirits, South African wines, tea and coffee.
Your The Zambezi Trader inclusions
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Unlimited free-flow selected locally branded beers and spirits, South African wines, tea and coffee
- Daily conservation fees
- Included activities: sunrise cruises, sunset cruises, fishing, game viewing by tender boat and fishing village excursion
All-inclusive cruise aboard The Zambezi Trader
One flight from Victoria Falls Airport (VFA) to the Deka Airstrip (FVDE)
Wake on the water and enjoy breakfast onboard before setting out on your choice of included tender-boat activities. With two activities available each day, you might follow the river’s quieter inlets and bays on a sunrise cruise, search for wildlife and birdlife from the water, or try fishing with the rods and tackle provided.
Depending on the day’s route and conditions, you may also visit a local fishing village and gain an insight into life along the Zambezi River. Back onboard, spend time watching the landscape pass from the viewing areas or relax beside the pool between activities.
As evening approaches, you may return to the water for a sunset cruise before enjoying dinner onboard.
Your The Zambezi Trader inclusions
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Unlimited free-flow selected locally branded beers and spirits, South African wines, tea and coffee
- Daily conservation fees
- Included activities: sunrise cruises, sunset cruises, fishing, game viewing by tender boat and fishing village excursion
Spend another day exploring the Zambezi River and its surrounding wilderness. Choose from two included tender-boat activities, with opportunities for game viewing, birdwatching, fishing and cruises through waterways inaccessible to the larger houseboat.
Between excursions, relax onboard and take in the changing scenery from the vessel’s open-air spaces. Your Deck C accommodation also places you close to dedicated dining and lounge areas, a private bar, pool and elevated viewing platform.
During the cruise, a beach barbecue dinner is planned when water levels permit, offering the chance to dine beside the river. Alternatively, dinner will be served onboard, accompanied by your choice of sundowners.
Your The Zambezi Trader inclusions
- Daily breakfast, lunch and dinner
- Unlimited free-flow selected locally branded beers and spirits, South African wines, tea and coffee
- Daily conservation fees
- Included activities: sunrise cruises, sunset cruises, fishing, game viewing by tender boat and fishing village excursion
Enjoy your final breakfast onboard as The Zambezi Trader cruises back towards Msuna Island. Take in the morning views from the water before boarding a tender boat for the short journey to the Msuna Island Jetty, where you will disembark.
Transfer to Deka Airstrip, then board your light charter flight to Victoria Falls Airport (VFA), ready for your onward journey.