Overview
South Africa is a multi-ethnic country, with various influences from the native and outer cultures. It is also diverse in terms of geography, which has blessed it with some stunning natural bounties. The mining industry has made it an important centre for gold and diamond trade, as well as a blooming urban destination. Take a vacation to this African country, and explore its various amazing facets.
Package Highlights:
* Explore the ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn
* See natural formations inside the Cango Caves
* Visit the iconic Gandhi Square and Nelson Mandela Square in Johannesburg
* Go for a bungee jump from Bloukrans Bridge
* Take a cable car ride to Table Mountain
Day 1: Johannesburg
Meals: Dinner
On this day, you will arrive at the international airport of Johannesburg. After clearing formalities related to immigrations and customs, start an interesting city tour of Johannesburg.
The biggest city of South Africa and the capital of the Gauteng province, Johannesburg is a diverse place with a lot to explore. Its establishment dates back to 1886, when it was set-up and named after the discovery of gold in a farm situated in the area. The city is a major centre for the trade of precious gold and diamonds, because of its strategic location near the mines. Tourists frequent this city in large numbers because of its proximity to major cities, and the presence of a rich art and culture scene.
Start your tour with a visit to the Gandhi Square, which is located in the city’s Central Business District. Named after the Indian freedom fighter Mahatma Gandhi, the square also has a statue in the honour of this historical figure. Then head to the Ellis Park Stadium – the rugby union and association football stadium, which hosted the final match of the Rugby World Cup in 1995. Also see the grand Nelson Mandela Square, which is a frequented shopping centre and has a large statue of its eponymous revolutionary. The last attraction you will visit during the day will be the Hillbrow Tower – a modern icon of the city.
Afterwards, proceed to the pre-arranged hotel and check-in. Have dinner and sleep the night away in your hotel room.
Day 2: Johannesburg – George – Mossel Bay (Approx. 1 Hour/56 km)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After relishing a delicious breakfast, proceed towards the airport for taking a flight to George. It is a popular holiday destination as well as conference centre in the country, apart from being the site of several famous festivals. Upon arrival at the airport in George, head towards Mossel Bay – the harbour town.
Mossel Bay is a prominent tourism and farming destination in South Africa’s Western Cape Province. The beautiful beaches here provide ample opportunities for leisure activities during holidays. As you reach here, check-in at the designated hotel. Afterwards, you will leave the hotel for relaxing at the natural tidal pools nearby.
Come back to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 3: Mossel Bay – Oudtshoorn – Mossel Bay (Approx. 1.25 Hours/91 km – One Way)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
After having breakfast, continue travelling towards Oudtshoorn – the ostrich capital of the world. On the way, you will visit Cango Caves, in the Precambrian limestones, right at the foothills of the Swartberg range. The extensive system of tunnels consists of natural stalagmites and stalactites, which form spectacular shapes throughout.
Later, continue the journey to Oudtshoorn and reach the Ostrich Farm, where you will learn a lot about the breeding and farming of this huge bird. You will also get a chance to ride an ostrich through the farm, and also to stand on the top of an ostrich egg. Afterwards, visit the Cango Wildlife Ranch, where you can see a wide variety of wild animals roaming freely. You will also learn a thing or two about the conservation of various species. While exploring the ranch, visit Cheetahland and Crocodile Farm, for a deeper insight into the fauna.
The evening includes a lighthouse hike, which will offer you a charming vista of the surroundings.
Get back to Mossel Bay for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 4: Mossel Bay – Knysna – Mossel Bay (Approx. 1.35 Hours/113 km – One Way)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Have breakfast and leave the hotel for a day trip to Knysna. Forming a part of the Garden Route, this small township stands on the shore of an estuary. It is frequented by international golfers because of the presence of world-class golf courses. In addition, the various events celebrated here also draw hordes of travellers from all over the world.
On the way to Knysna, you will visit the Bloukrans Bridge – an arch bridge constructed across its namesake river. It is famous for being the sight of the world’s highest commercial bridge bungee, at about 216 metres. You can also opt for a thrilling bungee jump from the bridge, if you want to experience some adventure.
Thereafter, continue the journey to Knysna, where you will take a brief picture stop. Click several photographs here and revel in the scenic beauty of the place. Later, you will also cross some other coastal towns, before returning to Mossel Bay.
The dinner and overnight stay will be at the hotel in Mossel Bay.
Day 5: Mossel Bay
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Post breakfast, you will go for a scenic walk on a long trail that stretches up to 15 km. On this trail, you will be greeted by the sight of lofty mountains on one side and the sprawling sea on the other. After beholding the natural beauty of the region through the walk, you can opt for a variety of activities. You can go for a helicopter ride, and capture views of the sea and beaches up to an expanse of 60 km. Quad biking adventure and speed boat ride are two other activities, which you can indulge into during the day.
Come back to the hotel for overnight stay.
Day 6: Mossel Bay – Game Lodge – Mossel Bay (Approx. 40 Minutes/48 km – One Way)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Have breakfast in the morning, and proceed towards Game Lodge. Here you will get a chance to see some of the wildest animals in their natural habitat. For allowing easy viewing of the flora and fauna, you will go on a 4×4 safari. This African safari will take you through the rugged and sprawling terrains of the lodge. You will come across the wonderful opportunity of seeing the continent’s five biggest animals, namely lion, leopard, elephant, wild buffalo and African rhino.
Head back to Mossel Bay for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 7: Mossel Bay – Capetown (Appx 5 Hrs / 388 Km)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and check-out for proceeding to Cape Town. This port city in South Africa is amongst the country’s most populous urban centres. It earns worldwide fame for its huge harbour, well-known natural landmarks, excellent infrastructure and a colourful culture. The city has also been named as the world’s best place to visit, according to various polls.
After arrival in the city, check-in at the hotel and relax for some time. In the evening, you will visit Canal Walk – a huge shopping centre built around a canal. This shopping centre has been built using Cape Venetian architecture, and has many stores, parking bays, restaurants, cinemas and a big gaming arcade.
Return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 8: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Have breakfast this morning and drive up to the cable car station. From here, take a cable car ride to the Table Mountain (if weather permits). This flat-topped mountain is a major attraction and landmark overlooking the city. It is featured in several city icons and insignia, and holds great prominence in terms of tourism. From the top of this flat mountain, you can enjoy the sweeping panorama of the city and its popular beaches.
While returning to Cape Town, take a halt at Seal Island. This landmass is named so because of the huge population of Cape Fur Seals residing on it. In addition, you can see various other sea birds, white sharks and non-marine animals at this place. In the evening, you will get a chance to see the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront (V&A Waterfront), which is known for its charming views of the Atlantic Ocean, Table Mountain, Cape Town and Table Bay Harbour.
Come back to the hotel in Cape Town for dinner and overnight stay.
Day 9: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Following a tasteful breakfast, take a drive to Cape Point. This promontory lies at the south-eastern top of the Cape Peninsula, and is situated within the geographical bounds of the Table Mountain National Park. Also visit the rocky headland named the Cape of Good Hope, which has many legends and sailor stories associated with it. On your way back to the city, you will pass through the place regarded as the area of millionaires. From here, you will once again proceed to the Seal Island and sight these mammals lazing on the shore.
Afterwards, go for an orientation tour of the city and visit some of its most famous landmarks. See the Houses of Parliament, comprising three major sections, built during various periods of the entire timeline. Then visit the Castle of Good Hope, which is a star fort dating back to the 17th century. Also visit the landmark named Signal Hill – a flat-topped formation. You will then go on an excursion of Sea Point, which is amongst the most posh locales in the city. After exploring the waterfront, go on a tour of the Malay Quarters, which are known for the conglomeration of artistic and colourful houses. Also see the bustling downtown business district of Cape Town, before ending the day’s sightseeing tour.
The dinner and overnight stay are scheduled in Cape Town once again.
Day 10: Cape Town – Johannesburg – Mumbai
Meals: Breakfast
Have a scrumptious breakfast at the hotel and check-out. You will now head to the Cape Town airport, from where you will board the flight to Mumbai.
Tour Ends.