South Africa: From the Cape to Kruger

South Africa: From the Cape to Kruger

312 Views
13 Days From

$4268

$3892

South Africa: From the Cape to Kruger

13 Days Starting in Cape Town, South Africa and ending in Johannesburg, South Africa

Visiting: Arrive Cape Town, South Africa, Cape Town, Stony Point Nature Reserve, Hermanus, Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park Reserve Excursion, George, Durban, Umhlanga, Mkuze, Mhlambanyatsi, Eswatini, Greater Kruger National Park Area, Greater Kruger Area, Johannesburg

Tour operator:

Cosmos

Tour code:

3800-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Trip Styles:

Safari Tours, Small Group

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

From: $4268 $3892 Barrhead discount: -$376

NB: Prices correct on 24-Dec-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 southwestern most 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.

Highlights

  • Visit Table Mountain for an aerial cable-car ride with stunning views of the city, Robben Island, and the Cape winelands.

  • Take a scenic drive via Chapman’s Peak Drive and visit Cape Point Nature Reserve, including the Cape of Good Hope and Cape Point.

  • Explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront or take an excursion to the Cape winelands for wine tasting.

  • See a colony of endangered African Penguins at Stony Point Nature Reserve.

  • Tour the Cango Caves and visit a local ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn.

  • Walk through Tsitsikamma National Park and cross the famous suspension bridge at Storms River.

  • Take a game drive in Mkuze Game Reserve to see the "Big 5" and enjoy a boat ride on Lake Jozini.

  • Experience early morning and afternoon game drives in the Greater Kruger National Park area.

Places You'll See

Sunsquare Cape Town Gardens

Protea Hotel By Marriott Mossel Bay

Aha The Rex Hotel

Garden Court Umhlanga

Ghost Mountain Inn

Foresters Arm

Sabi River Sun Resort

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive Cape Town,South Africa

Location: Arrive Cape Town, South Africa

Welcome to South Africa! Check in to your hotel and prepare for a fascinating journey.

Day 2: Cape Town

Ilse Wiespointner
Abd Abo naser

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 southwestern most 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

Ilse Wiespointner
Abd Abo naser

Location: Cape Town

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a full day at leisure for free-time pursuits. Perhaps explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront or go deeper with a whale-watching cruise in nearby Hermanus (Jun.-Oct.). Your Tour Director has suggestions to help you make the most of your day. May we recommend a glass-half-full kind of day in the stunning Cape Winelands for tastings and breathtaking scenery and cellars? Wine not!

Day 4: Cape Town,Stony Point Nature Reserve,Hermanus,Mossel Bay

Ilse Wiespointner
Abd Abo naser

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 for an interactive tour to learn about the world’s largest bird. Continue to Knysna.

Day 6: Knysna,Tsitsikamma National Park Reserve Excursion

Location: Knysna, Tsitsikamma National Park Reserve Excursion

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. Return to Knysna for time to explore the waterfront or make a splash with an optional whale-watching cruise off the coast of Knysna to spy the migration of whales passing through the pristine waters of the Indian Ocean (June - November; Jan – May departures include an exciting Eco Marine Cruise to spot dolphins, seals, penguins, and birdlife that call this stunning area home.).

Day 7: Knysna,George,Durban,Umhlanga

Location: Knysna, George, Durban, Umhlanga

Meals Included: Breakfast

This morning, drive to George 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, Eswatini

Meals Included: Dinner

Today, drive to eSwatini. En route, stop at a local Swaziland market to view cultural arts and crafts. Continue through Swaziland, the last traditional kingdom of the proud and welcoming Swazi people.

Day 11: Eswatini,Greater Kruger National Park Area

Location: Eswatini, Greater Kruger National Park Area

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Depart eSwatini, visiting a unique glass factory where skilled glass blowers use recycled glass to create stemware, animal figures, and more. Then, head north for the Greater Kruger area to visit a traditional Swazi village. Wander through the village with its many huts, each allocated for special social functions. Interact with the villagers as they go about their daily activities, experience folk songs and dance performances – maybe even join in the festivities. 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: Greater Kruger Area

Location: Greater Kruger Area

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: Greater Kruger Area,Johannesburg

Location: Greater Kruger Area, Johannesburg

Meals Included: Breakfast

A leisurely morning before a flight to Johannesburg. Your vacation ends at the airport. Schedule departing flights after 6 pm.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Stay at various hotels including SunSquare Cape Town Gardens, Protea Hotel by Marriott Mossel Bay, aha The Rex Hotel, Garden Court Umhlanga, Ghost Mountain Inn, Foresters Arm, and Sabi River Sun Resort.

  • Meals

    12 breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 5 dinners are included.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours and excursions including visits to Table Mountain, Cape Point Nature Reserve, Stony Point Nature Reserve, Cango Caves, Tsitsikamma National Park, and Mkuze Game Reserve.

  • Game Drives

    Game drives in Mkuze Game Reserve and Greater Kruger National Park area.

  • Local Experiences

    Interactions with local Zulu people and visits to a local market and a unique glass factory in eSwatini.

  • Transportation

    All transportation during the tour including flights from Gqeberha to Durban and from Greater Kruger Area to Johannesburg.

  • Small Group

    Each tour is limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure, ensuring a more personalized experience.

  • UNESCO Sites

    Visit to Cape Floral Region Protected Areas.

What's Not Included

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities such as excursions to the Cape winelands, whale watching in Hermanus, and optional cruises in Knysna are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended to be purchased separately.

  • Gratuities

    Gratuities for guides, drivers, and hotel staff are not included.

  • Visas and Entry Fees

    Visas and entry fees to certain attractions are not included.

Meals

12 Breakfasts, 5 Lunches, 6 Dinners

Notes

For approximately one month each year (typically late July to mid-September), Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is closed for annual maintenance. In these instances, a private tour of Kirstenbosch National Garden will be included in its place. All game viewing is done at your own risk and requires a signed liability waiver prior to travel. Due to rough driving on/off road and in/between game parks, this vacation is not recommended for guests with serious back problems or mobility issues.

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

Accommodation

Cape Town:SunSquare Cape Town Gardens
Mossel Bay:Protea Hotel by Marriott Mossel Bay
Knysna:aha The Rex Hotel
Umhlanga:Garden Court Umhlanga
Mkuze:Ghost Mountain Inn
Eswatini:Foresters Arm
Kruger National Park Area:Sabi River Sun Resort

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the game drives in Mkuze Game Reserve?

    During the game drives in Mkuze Game Reserve, you can expect to see the 'Big 5'—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Additionally, you may spot giraffe, zebra, black and white rhino, and a variety of other wildlife.

  • What activities are available during the leisure day in Cape Town?

    During the leisure day in Cape Town, you can explore the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, take an excursion to the Cape winelands for wine tasting, or go whale watching in nearby Hermanus (June to October). Your Tour Director will also have suggestions to help you make the most of your day.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Stony Point Nature Reserve?

    At Stony Point Nature Reserve, you will see a colony of endangered African Penguins. These penguins are known for their unique sound and grow to an average height of two feet. They live in burrows and rock crevices along the beach.

  • What is included in the visit to Tsitsikamma National Park?

    In Tsitsikamma National Park, you will explore the indigenous coastal forest and walk to the mouth of the Storms River. You will also cross the famous suspension bridge for views of the coastline and the Storms River Mouth Cave.

  • What kind of experiences are offered in the Greater Kruger National Park area?

    In the Greater Kruger National Park area, you will have early morning and afternoon game drives with an experienced guide, where you might spot big cats, kudu, impala, giraffe, cheetah, spotted hyena, and the elusive wild dog. You can also enjoy leisure time watching wildlife from your balcony, go on guided nature or birding walks, book a spa treatment, or relax at the pool.

  • What cultural experiences are included in the tour?

    The tour includes a walk in the Lebombo mountains to interact with local Zulu people and learn about their customs and life in this rural community. Additionally, you will visit a local market and a unique glass factory in eSwatini where talented glass blowers use recycled glass to create various items.

  • What happens if the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is closed for maintenance?

    If the Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is closed for maintenance, typically from late July to late August, a private tour of Kirstenbosch National Garden will be included in its place.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    Since 1961

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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

Mrs Susan Hyland  

We have just returned from a Cosmos…

28-Sep-2022

We have just returned from a Cosmos tour- Gourmet Tuscany. We stayed in Montecatini Terme and traveled from there to many wonderful places, in towns and the fabulous Tuscan countryside. We visit Vineyards for wine tastings, farms for cooking lessons and lunches and dinners in authentic Italian restaurants. All assisted by a friendly, informative tour director. First class holiday

Trustpilot
Rick  

Excellent in every respect

08-Dec-2022

I recently did a 2-week "best of Italy" tour with this company. Our guide, Daniella, was fantastic, the itinerary was excellent and they catered for my rather difficult dietary requirements really well. Really happy and will certainly book with them again

Trustpilot
John Lomanno  

A wonderrful experience

09-Nov-2022

WE saw so much. The tour director Mladin was very knowledgeable and made the experience so enjoyable. The bus driver Paul was so nice and helpful. A couple of the hotels had no refrigerators to keep the water cold. We had to carry our own luggage to and from the rooms. There should have been porters to help us. Over all we had a great time.

Trustpilot
Bruce  

Old South &Florida tour

27-Oct-2022

Great organisation, tour guide(Kris) and driver(Tony) who went extra mile and good group of people from all over world. The hotels were excellent in New Orleans and Nashville and very good in other cities. The itinerary was well thought out with visits to Gracelands and Grande ole Oprey topping the bill. We added 3extra nights in New Orleans (giving us 6nights) which was absolutely fab and would advise anyone doing this tour that they consider some extra nights to see and do as much as you can

Trustpilot
Francine Ramos  

The tour director expertise and…

18-Dec-2022

The tour director expertise and personality made the trip all the more pleasant. No stress. The local guides as well added to the beauty of this trip. They were knowledgeable and personable. I also have to mention the travelers (the group of 21). The people were friendly an accommodating. This is my third trip with this tour company and I will continue to travel with this company due to excellent planning and customer service. Thank you

Trustpilot

Save on this tour

Request your exclusive discount code now and unlock savings for your next adventure!

Send me one now.

1 Select your preferred date

Friday - Wednesday

Feb 14, 2025 - Feb 26, 2025
$4381 $4005

Barrhead discount: -$376

Friday - Wednesday

May 16, 2025 - May 28, 2025
$4268 $3892

Barrhead discount: -$376

Friday - Wednesday

Jun 13, 2025 - Jun 25, 2025
$4268 $3892

Barrhead discount: -$376

Friday - Wednesday

Jul 11, 2025 - Jul 23, 2025
$4268 $3892

Barrhead discount: -$376

Friday - Wednesday

Aug 01, 2025 - Aug 13, 2025
$4268 $3892

Barrhead discount: -$376

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 05, 2025 - Sep 17, 2025
$4393 $4018

Barrhead discount: -$376

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 19, 2025 - Oct 01, 2025
$4393 $4018

Barrhead discount: -$376

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 03, 2025 - Oct 15, 2025
$4431 $4055

Barrhead discount: -$376

Friday - Wednesday

Jan 16, 2026 - Jan 28, 2026
$4736 $4173

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

Feb 13, 2026 - Feb 25, 2026
$4736 $4173

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

Mar 20, 2026 - Apr 01, 2026
$4761 $4198

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

May 15, 2026 - May 27, 2026
$4649 $4085

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

Jun 12, 2026 - Jun 24, 2026
$4649 $4085

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

Jul 10, 2026 - Jul 22, 2026
$4649 $4085

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

Jul 31, 2026 - Aug 12, 2026
$4649 $4085

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 04, 2026 - Sep 16, 2026
$4761 $4198

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

Sep 18, 2026 - Sep 30, 2026
$4761 $4198

Barrhead discount: -$564

Friday - Wednesday

Oct 02, 2026 - Oct 14, 2026
$4786 $4223

Barrhead discount: -$564

Book with Confidence

  • 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.

  • 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.

Why book with Barrhead?

protected icon

Fully Protected

All our holidays are fully financially protected.


Your flight & hotel package is fully ATOL protected.

search icon

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.

award icon

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.

atal icon

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.


Similar Tours