Christmas in South Africa

Upon your arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you have the rest of the day at leisure.

Following breakfast, explore the Apartheid Museum before embarking on a journey to the Mpumalanga Panorama Route region. This enchanting and scenic area, embraced by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, waterfalls, and canyons, unfolds in lush greenery during the summer season. Serving as a splendid gateway to the renowned Kruger National Park, the region awaits your check-in, leaving the remainder of the day for you to relax at your leisure.

Celebrate Christmas Eve today! Take a ride in the Graskop Gorge Lift, offering stunning views of the forest canopy. Continue your journey to God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes, a natural marvel featuring swirling pools and unique rock formations. After Three Rondavels, check in at the private game in time to partake in a dusk safari for the chance to encounter local wildlife. Cap off the day with a delightful Christmas Eve dinner at the lodge, immersing yourself in the festive spirit.

Wishing you a Merry Christmas! This year, your festive celebration takes a unique turn as you spend Christmas Day on thrilling game drives, the primary means of exploring the park, providing a close encounter with the animals. Christmas dinner promises to be a joyous event, served under the stars in the boma. Engage in an African drumming class where you'll not only master traditional beats but also delve into the rich cultural history, discovering how stories, songs, and traditions have been passed down through the universal language of rhythm and dance.

Boxing Day offers further opportunities for spotting 'The Big 5', as your expert ranger and tracker lead the way. Adept at spotting wildlife and sharing insights about the animals and their habitats, they ensure memorable and informative game drives, while contributing to the park's overall conservation efforts.

Transfer back to Johannesburg and fly to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). On arrival, transfer to your hotel in time for dinner.

Set out this morning on your journey to Knysna, with a captivating stop at Oudebosch Protea Farm, where you'll discover fascinating insights into the country's national flower. Continue to Tsitsikamma National Park, a protected expanse celebrated for its breath-taking coastal and forest scenery. As you travel further south, you'll reach the charming town of Knysna, renowned for its scenic lagoon, the iconic Knysna Heads, and a lively waterfront that adds vibrancy to its picturesque surroundings.

The standout experience today is The Featherbed Eco Experience, an enchanting journey that commences with a picturesque boat cruise across the Knysna Lagoon. Following this, a guided tractor ride elevates you to the summit of the western head, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the lagoon, ocean, and mountains. A leisurely nature walk through the coastal forest unveils the unique flora and fauna of the area, culminating in a delightful lunch amid this beautiful setting.

Today the journey from Knysna to Cape Town promises a delightful fusion of distinctive experiences and stunning landscapes. From Oudtshoorn, your exploration begins with the captivating Cango Caves, an underground marvel adorned with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Subsequently, venture to an ostrich farm for a tractor tour and indulge in a delectable lunch showcasing ostrich delicacies, before continuing to Cape Town.

The final day of the year takes you around the highlights of Cape Town! Cruise past landmarks such as the Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens, and Houses of Parliament before a unique lunch experience has you ascending Table Mountain (weather permitting) via the cableway. Usher in the New Year at a restaurant on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, surrounded by great company, delectable food, and lively entertainment. As the clock strikes midnight, raise a toast with your travel companions and relish a spectacle of lights and pyrotechnics. What a remarkable place to welcome the new year!

Kick off the New Year with a sea island cruise to witness playful seals in their natural habitat. If the weather permits, embark on a breath-taking drive along Chapman's Peak, revealing sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the rugged beauty of Cape Point, the meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, visiting the historic Cape Point Lighthouse before concluding the day with a visit to Boulders Beach, renowned for its resident African penguin colony, offering a close-up observation of these charming creatures.

Today you will explore the renowned Winelands, commencing in Stellenbosch. Begin with a tour of the town before heading to Franschhoek. At Boschendal Wine Estate, take in the scenic vineyards and delve into its rich history. Indulge in tasting exquisite wines and relish a delightful lunch at Haute Cabriere, where magnificent views of the valley enhance the experience. Explore the art of winemaking and sample their finest vintages. Conclude the day with an unforgettable dinner at Gold Restaurant, where you'll enjoy an immersive and authentic African experience.

This morning is at leisure in Cape Town, with time to shop or explore, before transferring to the airport in the afternoon. Board your overnight flight back to the UK, arriving home the following day.