2028 South Africa: Cape Town, Vineyards & Safari Adventure

Set against the iconic silhouette of Table Mountain, Cape Town is one of Africa’s most beautiful and captivating cities. Here, dramatic mountains meet a spectacular coastline, historic architecture blends with a vibrant contemporary culture, and a rich winemaking tradition stretches back centuries. Known for its welcoming spirit and LGBTQ+ friendliness, Cape Town offers an extraordinary introduction to South Africa. 

Today, settle into the city and take in its unique blend of natural beauty, history, culture, and world-class dining. There is an unmistakable sense of adventure here, a feeling that something extraordinary is just around the corner. 

This evening, we’ll gather for a special Welcome Dinner in a private room at the hotel, the perfect opportunity to connect with one another and toast the incredible journey ahead. 

♦ Overnight at the InterContinental Table Bay Hotel (D) ♦

Begin your day with breakfast at the hotel before setting out to experience some of Cape Town’s most iconic sights and vibrant neighborhoods. 

Our full-day exploration begins with Table Mountain, weather permitting, where Fast Track admission allows us to ascend above the city and take in breathtaking panoramic views stretching across Cape Town, the Atlantic coastline, and beyond. We’ll then continue with a guided city tour, discovering the historic heart of Cape Town and the colorful character of its streets and neighborhoods. 

In the vibrant Bo-Kaap, known for its brightly painted homes and rich Cape Malay heritage, we’ll enjoy a cooking demonstration that offers a delicious introduction to the flavors and traditions of the community. Following the demonstration, sit down to a leisurely lunch featuring the dishes and flavors we’ve discovered, accompanied by water, coffee, and tea. 

After a full day of sightseeing, return to the hotel to relax and refresh before an evening of exceptional dining. Tonight, we’ll gather for dinner at Tang Restaurant, where a vibrant menu inspired by Asian flavors provides a memorable end to our first full day in Cape Town. 

♦ Overnight at the InterContinental Table Bay Hotel (B, L, D) ♦

After breakfast at the hotel, set out for a spectacular full-day journey along the Cape Peninsula, where dramatic coastal scenery, rugged cliffs, pristine beaches, and abundant wildlife showcase the extraordinary beauty of the Cape. 

Travel along the breathtaking Chapman’s Peak Drive, winding high above the Atlantic Ocean with spectacular views at every turn. Continue to Cape Point, where we’ll take the funicular up to the iconic viewpoint overlooking the meeting point of land and sea. From here, explore the Cape of Good Hope, a landscape of rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean vistas, and untamed natural beauty. 

Our journey continues to Boulders Beach, home to a beloved colony of African penguins. Get an up-close look at these charming residents as they nest and wander along this beautiful stretch of coastline. 

Enjoy a leisurely lunch at The Black Marlin, a picturesque seaside restaurant where fresh local flavors and beautiful ocean views provide the perfect setting to pause and savor the day. 

After returning to Cape Town, the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Dinner is on your own, offering the opportunity to choose from the city’s many exceptional restaurants or simply relax at the hotel. 

♦ Overnight at the InterContinental Table Bay Hotel (B, L) ♦

Begin your morning with breakfast at the hotel before heading to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, one of the world’s most spectacular botanical gardens. Enjoy as our guide takes us on a guided exploration through this extraordinary landscape, nestled against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain and home to an incredible diversity of South Africa’s indigenous flora. 

After our garden experience, continue to Harbour House for a leisurely lunch, where beautiful waterfront views provide the perfect setting to relax and enjoy the flavors of the Cape. 

The afternoon is yours to experience Cape Town at your own pace. Explore the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with its boutiques, galleries, and local shops, or return to the hotel and enjoy some well-deserved downtime. 

This evening, we will come together for a memorable dinner at GOLD Restaurant, where an immersive dining experience celebrates the diverse cultures and flavors of Africa. Enjoy a vibrant multi-course feast accompanied by traditional African drumming and entertainment—a lively and unforgettable way to experience the spirit of the continent. 
 
♦ Overnight at the InterContinental Table Bay Hotel (B, L, D) ♦

After breakfast, leave Cape Town behind and journey into the picturesque Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyards, majestic mountains, and historic estates create one of South Africa’s most enchanting landscapes. 

Our first stop is Vergelegen Estate, one of the Cape’s most celebrated wine estates, renowned for its beautiful gardens, rich heritage, and exceptional wines. Enjoy a wine tasting while taking in the elegance and tranquility of this remarkable property. 

Following our tasting, enjoy a leisurely lunch at Jordan Wine Estate, surrounded by the beauty of the vineyards and mountains. Savor fresh, locally inspired cuisine paired with the distinctive character of the Cape Winelands. 

This afternoon, continue to Morgenster Estate, where centuries-old winemaking traditions meet the art of olive cultivation. Enjoy a tasting of the estate’s wines and olive products before continuing to Stellenbosch, one of South Africa’s most picturesque and historic towns. 

This evening, gather for dinner at Savage, where an inventive culinary experience celebrates South Africa’s diverse landscapes and locally sourced ingredients. 

Tonight, settle into the tranquil surroundings of Spier Hotel, your home amid the vineyards and natural beauty of the Cape Winelands.

♦ Overnight at the Spier Hotel (B, L, D) ♦

Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before setting out to discover the culinary heart of Stellenbosch on a full day excursion beginning with a “Foodies” walking tour. Explore the charming historic center while learning about the town’s rich heritage and sampling local specialties along the way. A leisurely lunch featuring fresh, flavorful cuisine from the Cape Winelands completes this delicious introduction to Stellenbosch. 

This afternoon, continue to Grande Provence, a beautiful historic wine estate set among the vineyards of Franschhoek. Indulge in a unique tasting experience pairing fine wines with handcrafted nougat, a delicious celebration of the region’s culinary artistry. 

The remainder of the evening is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Dinner is on your own, offering the opportunity to explore the area’s exceptional dining scene or simply relax and savor the peaceful surroundings of the estate. 

♦ Overnight at the Spier Hotel (B, L) ♦

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel before bidding farewell to the Cape Winelands and transferring to Cape Town International Airport for your flight to Skukuza, the gateway to South Africa’s renowned safari country. A light lunch will be served onboard during the flight. 

Upon arrival in Skukuza, the adventure begins immediately as we transfer to Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge in open safari jeeps, traveling through the wilderness of the Sabi Sabi Private Reserve. Keep your eyes open along the way as you may spot your first glimpse of South Africa’s incredible wildlife before even reaching the lodge.

Settle in with a refreshing welcome drink before heading out on your first afternoon game drive. As the day cools and the African bush comes alive, keep watch for the extraordinary wildlife that inhabits this remarkable reserve. 

Return to the lodge as the sun sets, with the evening yours to relax, have dinner and enjoy the magic of your first night in the bush. 

♦ Overnight is at Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge. (B, L, D) ♦

Rise early for your first morning game drive into the Sabi Sabi Private Reserve. Before setting out, enjoy coffee and freshly baked pastries as you prepare for an unforgettable morning in the bush. As the sun rises over the reserve, your expert guides will lead you in search of Africa’s remarkable wildlife, from the iconic Big Five to the countless creatures that call this wilderness home. 

Return to the lodge after your morning adventure for a leisurely breakfast, followed by time to enjoy the lodge at your own pace. Take a refreshing swim, indulge in a spa treatment, or simply relax and soak in the peaceful surroundings while watching the wildlife and scenery unfold around you. 

Lunch is served at the lodge before we gather again in the afternoon for our second game drive. As the golden light settles over the bush, enjoy a sundowner in the wilderness, a quintessential safari tradition and the perfect way to celebrate another extraordinary day in Africa. 

Return to the lodge for dinner and an evening beneath the stars. 

♦ Overnight at the Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge. (B, D, L) ♦

Begin another unforgettable day in the African bush with an early morning game drive. Coffee and pastries will be served before departure, allowing us to set out as the bush awakens and wildlife becomes active in the cool morning hours. With our expert guides leading the way, each drive offers the possibility of a new and unexpected encounter. 

Return to the lodge for a leisurely breakfast and a relaxed morning. Spend the time however you choose—enjoy a swim, treat yourself to a spa appointment, or simply unwind and take in the spectacular natural surroundings. Lunch will be served at the lodge before we head out once again for our afternoon game drive. 

As the sun begins to set, pause in the bush for sundowners, raising a glass as the landscape transforms in the golden evening light. Continue our safari adventure before returning to the lodge. 

Tonight, experience the magic of an African boma or bush dinner, where a memorable evening of dining, atmosphere, and local traditions unfolds beneath the stars. Gather around the fire and savor a special farewell to our time in the South African wilderness. 

♦ Overnight at the Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge. (B, D, L)  ♦

Savor one final morning in the African wilderness with an early game drive through the Sabi Sabi Private Reserve. As the bush awakens around us, keep watch for one last memorable wildlife encounter before we say farewell to safari life. 

Return to the lodge for breakfast before transferring to Skukuza Airport for our flight to Johannesburg. Lunch will be served onboard the plane as we travel north to South Africa’s vibrant and cosmopolitan city. 

Upon arrival, we’ll transfer to the elegant Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg, perched above the city among lush gardens. Settle in and enjoy some time to relax, refresh, and take in the beautiful surroundings before our evening together. 

Tonight, gather for dinner at Flames Restaurant, the hotel’s celebrated dining destination, where sweeping views over Johannesburg provide a stunning backdrop for an evening of South African-inspired cuisine. 

♦ Overnight at the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg. (B, D, L) ♦

Begin the day with breakfast at the hotel before setting out to explore Soweto, one of Johannesburg’s most historically significant and culturally vibrant communities. Visit Nelson Mandela’s former home, where we’ll learn more about his life, legacy, and the pivotal role he played in South Africa’s history. 

After exploring Soweto, pause for lunch before continuing to the Apartheid Museum. This powerful and immersive experience offers deeper insight into the history of apartheid and South Africa’s remarkable journey toward equality and democracy. 

Return to the hotel in the afternoon with time to relax and refresh before our final evening together. 

Tonight, gather for a special Farewell Dinner at Pigalle, where we’ll raise a glass to the incredible places we’ve explored, the experiences we’ve shared, and the memories we’ll take home from our South African adventure. 

♦ Overnight at the Four Seasons Hotel The Westcliff Johannesburg. (B, L, D)  ♦

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at the hotel and take in your final morning in Johannesburg. Spend some time relaxing and reflecting on the incredible experiences and memories from your South African adventure. Check out is 11 am. 

Transfer to the airport for your international flight home. 

As our journey comes to an end, we hope you leave South Africa with unforgettable memories, new friendships, and a deeper appreciation for this remarkable country. 

(B)