South Africa: From the Cape to Kruger
South Africa: From the Cape to Kruger
13 Days
Visiting: Cape Town, Stony Point Nature Reserve, Hermanus, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park, Gqeberha, Durban, uMhlanga, Mkuze, Mhlambanyatsi, Kruger National Park, Johannesburg
Tour operator:
Tour code:
3800-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
From:
$3552 (USD)NB: Prices correct on 19-May-2024 but subject to change.
Tour Overview
Enthralling game drives, stunning scenery, and fun experiences…this South Africa tour has it all!Have your camera ready as you ride in open-air, safari vehicles during game drives in Kruger National Park, one of the world's largest game reserves and home to impala, zebra, cheetah, spotted hyena, and more, and in Mkuze Game Reserve, where you’ll watch for lion, leopard, rhino, Cape buffalo, and giraffe. Enjoy a cruise on Lake Jozini home to hippo, Nile crocodile, and, if you’re lucky, elephant along the shore. At Stony Point Nature Reserve, observe the endangered African penguins engage in their daily activities.In addition to wildlife, you’ll also experience unique culture and spectacular scenery on this tour through South Africa. Learn about Zulu customs and life today during a fascinating village walk and interact with local artisans in eSwatini. Visit Tsitsikamma National Park for a walk through its unique coastal forest. Drive along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the world’s most scenic drives skirting the rocky coastline, and the scenic Panorama Route, with its dramatic landscapes tracing the course of the mighty Blyde River. Marvel at the stalagmites and stalactites at the Cango Caves. Witness rugged rocks, sheer cliffs, crashing waves, and panoramic ocean views at Cape Point, Africa’s southwesternmost point.All of this and more—including opportunities to learn about local cultures—await you on this South Africa tour for savvy, value-minded travelers.
Itinerary
Day 1: Cape Town,South Africa
Location: Cape Town
Welcome to South Africa! Check in to your hotel and prepare for a fascinating journey.
Day 2: Cape Town
Location: Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, visit Table Mountain for an aerial cable-car ride to the top for stunning views of the city, Robben Island, and the Cape winelands. Then, take a scenic drive south via Chapman’s Peak Drive, which skirts the rocky coastline and is one of the most scenic drives in the world. Continue to Cape Point Nature Reserve for stops at the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point, the southwesternmost point on the African continent. Here, take a funicular ride to the steps of the old lighthouse for spectacular panoramic views. Return to Cape Town and enjoy the evening at your leisure.
Day 3: Cape Town
Location: Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast
Enjoy a full day at leisure for your own discoveries. Perhaps explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, take an excursion to the stunning Cape winelands for wine tasting, or go whale watching in nearby Hermanus (Jun.-Oct.) Your Tour Director has suggestions to help you make the most of your day.
Day 4: Cape Town,Stony Point Nature Reserve,Hermanus,Mossel Bay
Location: Cape Town, Stony Point Nature Reserve, Hermanus, Mossel Bay
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
This morning, depart Cape Town and drive to Stony Point Nature Reserve to see a colony of endangered African Penguins. Known for the unique sound they make, these penguins grow to an average height of two feet and live in burrows and rock crevices along the beach. Stop in Hermanus for independent exploration before reaching Mossel Bay for the evening.
Day 5: Mossel Bay,Oudtshoorn,Knysna
Location: Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Knysna
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Drive north to Oudtshoorn and stop for a guided tour of the Cango Caves with its stunning limestone rock formations. You will also visit a local ostrich farm. Continue to Knysna.
Day 6: Knysna. Tsitsikamma National Park Reserve Excursion
Location: Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today, explore the spectacular Tsitsikamma National Park for a walk through the indigenous coastal forest to the mouth of the Storms River. Cross the famous suspension bridge for views of the coastline and to see the Storms River Mouth Cave. Afterwards, return to Knysna for time to explore the waterfront or consider an optional cruise to see local marine life.
Day 7: Knysna,Gqeberha,Durban,Umhlanga
Location: Knysna, Gqeberha, Durban, uMhlanga
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, drive to Gqeberha for your flight to Durban. Upon arrival, transfer to your hotel in the bustling Umhlanga Rocks area for the evening.
Day 8: Umhlanga,Mkuze
Location: uMhlanga, Mkuze
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today, drive to Mkuze in the heart of Zululand. After lunch, travel to the Lebombo mountains for a memorable walk to interact with local Zulu people and learn about their customs and life today in this rural community.
Day 9: Mkuze
Location: Mkuze
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning, take a game drive in Mkuze Game Reserve, the oldest proclaimed wildlife reserve in all of Africa. The park is home to the “Big 5”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. You also have the chance to see giraffe, zebra, black and white rhino, and much more! After time to rest, embark on an afternoon boat ride on Lake Jozini. During the cruise, you are likely to spot hippo, Nile crocodile, elephant, and a variety of bird life.
Day 10: Mkuze,Mhlambanyatsi,Eswatini
Location: Mkuze, Mhlambanyatsi
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today, drive to eSwatini. Enroute, stop at a local market and visit a unique glass factory where talented glass blowers use recycled glass to create stemware, animals, and more.
Day 11: Eswatini,Kruger National Park Area
Location: Kruger National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Depart eSwatini and head north for the Greater Kruger area. South African hospitality reigns today with leisure time at the lodge. Gaze from your balcony at the wildlife-rich gardens, relax at the pool and day spa, and select from delightful dining choices.
Day 12: Kruger Area
Location: Kruger National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Rise early for coffee and tea before your early morning game drive with an experienced guide. If the timing is right, you might spot some of the big cats after a night of hunting. Spend time at leisure in the middle of the day watching wildlife from your balcony or on a guided nature or birding walk . Perhaps book a spa treatment or simply relax at the pool. Watch for kudu, impala, giraffe, cheetah, spotted hyena, the elusive wild dog, and more on your afternoon game drive. Return to your lodge for dinner.
Day 13: Kruger Area,Johannesburg
Location: Kruger National Park, Johannesburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
A leisurely morning before a flight to Johannesburg. Your vacation ends at the airport. Schedule departing flights after 6 pm.
Small Group
Each Cosmos Africa safari tour is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure. There’s always room to roam with extra space between you and other travelers—while still getting up close and personal to the experiences you’ve been dreaming of. Small-Group Discoveries include all the features of a traditional Cosmos escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Safari Guide/Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery African safari vacation is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.
UNESCO Sites
Cape Floral Region Protected Areas
Meals
12 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
Notes
All game viewing is done at your own risk. We will require a signed liability waiver prior to travel. Table Mountain cableway annual maintenance – For approximately one month each year, typically from late July to late August, the cableway is closed for annual maintenance and Table Mountain cannot be visited. In these instances, a private tour of Kirstenbosch National Garden will be included.
Accommodation
SunSquare Cape Town Gardens
"Situated near the Cape Town city bowl in the lush suburb of Gardens, the beautifully renovated SunSquare Cape Town Gardens hotel offers guests a contemporary hideaway. The hotel¿s 136 well-appointed rooms are equipped with a host of amenities including air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi.
The hotel also offers a gym and an inviting outdoor pool."
Protea Hotel by Marriott Mossel Bay
Built in 1846 with stone walls, Mediterranean-style outbuildings, and the majestic Outeniqua Mountains as a backdrop, this is one of the oldest structures in Mossel Bay. The hotel provides breathtaking views over Santos Bay, a delightful breakfast patio, a restaurant, pool, and luxurious guestrooms.
aha The Rex Hotel
Knysna is a haven of beaches, forests, lakes and sea, and aha The Rex Hotel is located in the heart of all the action. The eclectic mix of modern and classic design create a comfortable retreat after a day of sightseeing. The hotel takes pride in providing superior service to each and every guests to ensure a memorable stay.
Garden Court Umhlanga
The Garden Court Umhlanga hotel is the perfect stop for visitors to KwaZulu-Natal¿s picturesque coastline. The hotel décor is inspired by nature and features a variety of amenities highlighted by the onsite restaurant, ourdoor pool, spa, and bar.
Ghost Mountain Inn
At the foot of the legendary Ghost Mountain lies the enchanting Ghost Mountain Inn. A tale of family, history and an innate love for Africa, this intimate and award-winning hotel is the ideal location from which to explore the area. Wiith an emphasis on service you are sure to enjoy your stay and an authentic Zululand experience.
Foresters Arm
Set in stunning mountain countryside, Foresters Arms offers a haven of comfort and a place of great character and charm. Set within extensive, beautiful gardens rich in native flowers and trees the hotel offers exceptional accommodation, excellent food, and a genuine caring & friendly service.
Sabi River Sun Resort
Located in close proximity to Kruger National Park, the Sabi River Sun Resort in Hazyview is the perfect destination to experience a unique wildlife experience in the warm heart of Mpumalanga province. Comfortable and homely accommodation, enhanced by spectacular views, a rich natural heritage, and abundant wildlife, all combine to create a stay that is utterly relaxing and unforgettable.
Check out our Q&As
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
Reviews of this operator
Dates & Availability
Friday - Wednesday
Jun 14, 2024 - Jun 26, 2024Friday - Wednesday
Jul 12, 2024 - Jul 24, 2024Friday - Wednesday
Aug 23, 2024 - Sep 04, 2024Friday - Wednesday
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Feb 14, 2025 - Feb 26, 2025Friday - Wednesday
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Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025Friday - Wednesday
Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Barrhead Travel requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 98 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of barrhead travel charges.
Up to 98 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 97 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 75% of booking price.
At 28 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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Terms and Conditions
Why book with Barrhead?
Fully Protected
All our holidays are fully financially protected.
Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.
Range
Our bespoke holidays are tailor-made to suit your personal requirements.
We can book flights, rail journeys, accommodation, cruises, attraction tickets and much more.
Industry leading discounts, we won't be beaten on price.
Expert Knowledge
We know because we go – our Touring & Adventure specialists have travelled to over 55 countries.
Reliable & unbiased advice from our trusted travel experts.
Trusted Agent
Multi award-winning agency with almost 50 years experience.
Rated 4.9/5 on Trustpilot – the highest-rated high-street travel agent.
We look after you every step of the way.
