Splendors of South Africa & Victoria Falls with Chobe River Cruise

Splendors of South Africa & Victoria Falls with Chobe River Cruise

125 Views
15 Days From

$8943

$8501

Splendors of South Africa & Victoria Falls with Chobe River Cruise

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

Visiting: Cape Town, Greater Kruger National Park Area, Johannesburg, Victoria Falls, Chobe River, Kasane

Tour operator:

Globus

Tour code:

QSE4-2025

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English

Interests:

Cultural, Wildlife Tours

Activities:

Walking

From: $8943 $8501 Barrhead discount: -$442

NB: Prices correct on 21-Nov-2024 but subject to change.

Tour Overview

Embark on the "Splendors of South Africa & Victoria Falls with Chobe River Cruise" tour, an extraordinary journey through Botswana, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe. Begin in Cape Town, exploring its historic landmarks and vibrant neighborhoods, then venture to the stunning Cape Peninsula. Experience thrilling game drives in the Greater Kruger National Park, spotting the "Big 5" and more. Discover Johannesburg's rich history with visits to Soweto and Nelson Mandela's House. Marvel at the majestic Victoria Falls and enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. Conclude with an intimate Chobe River cruise, offering unparalleled wildlife encounters and luxurious accommodations. This tour promises unforgettable adventures and breathtaking landscapes.

Highlights

  • Explore the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood in Cape Town, known for its colorful houses and rich cultural history.

  • Take a scenic drive along Chapman's Peak Drive to Cape Point Nature Reserve and visit the Cape of Good Hope.

  • See a colony of endangered African penguins at Boulders Beach.

  • Experience thrilling game drives in Makalali Private Game Reserve, home to the "Big 5" and other wildlife.

  • Visit Soweto in Johannesburg, including Nelson Mandela's House and Constitution Hill.

  • Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe.

  • Take a guided walk at Victoria Falls, known as "the smoke that thunders."

  • Embark on a Chobe River cruise in Namibia, with opportunities for water safaris and wildlife spotting.

Places You'll See

Southern Sun The Cullinan

Makalali Main Lodge

Sandton Sun

Ilala Lodge

Palm River Hotel

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1: Arrive In Cape Town,South Africa

Ilse Wiespointner
Abd Abo naser

Location: Cape Town

Accommodation Name: Southern Sun The Cullinan

Welcome to Cape Town, commonly referred to as the “Mother City” by locals, as it was home to the first European settlement in South Africa. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.ARRIVE IN CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA Your Small Group Discovery Tour begins!Welcome to Cape Town, commonly referred to as the “Mother City” by locals, as it was home to the first European settlement in South Africa. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.

Day 2: Cape Town

Ilse Wiespointner
Abd Abo naser

Location: Cape Town

Accommodation Name: Southern Sun The Cullinan

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

CAPE TOWN City Sights & Soaring HeightsStart at the Grand Parade to see the Castle of Good Hope and City Hall. Walk to see more of Cape Town’s landmarks including St. George’s Cathedral, Parliament, and The Company’s Garden. Then, explore the [LF] Bo-Kaap neighborhood, also known as the Malay Quarter, including a visit to the Bo-Kaap Museum. After a traditional Malay lunch, enjoy a scenic cable-car ride to the top of Table Mountain for stunning 360-degree views over the city. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant! (B,L,D)LOCAL FAVORITESMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Explore Cape Town’s neighborhood that was founded by former slaves in the 1750s. Today, Bo-Kaap is a melting pot of cultures within its National Heritage sites. Stroll past vibrantly hued houses ranging from lime-green and pink to orange, reflective of Dutch and British architecture. Your Local Guide shares fascinating stories of this lively neighborhood where the aromas of fragrant spices waft from local restaurants and spice shops. Enjoy lunch with your small group, followed by a cable-car ride to take in the 360-degree views from the top of Table Mountain.

Day 3: Cape Town,Cape Peninsula Excursion

Ilse Wiespointner
Abd Abo naser

Location: Cape Town

Accommodation Name: Southern Sun The Cullinan

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

CAPE TOWN–CAPE PENINSULA EXCURSION Rocky Coast & Beach LifeTake a scenic drive along stunning Chapman’s Peak Drive en route to Cape Point Nature Reserve. Stop at the Cape of Good Hope before arriving at Cape Point. Ride a funicular to the steps of the old lighthouse with panoramic views of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Boulders Beach to see a colony of endangered African penguins. Free time this evening. (B,L)TOUR HIGHLIGHTTUXEDO JUNCTION Jackets aren’t required on Boulders Beach, even though the residents look dressed to the hilt. The only penguins found on the continent, African penguins are known for the unique sound they make. Colonies can be found from southern Namibia all the way around the South African coast, and Boulders Beach is the premiere viewing spot.

Day 4: Cape Town

Ilse Wiespointner
Abd Abo naser

Location: Cape Town

Accommodation Name: Southern Sun The Cullinan

Meals Included: Breakfast

CAPE TOWN Free to Wander Full day at leisure for your own discoveries in this beautiful city.(B) ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE Today, consider exploring the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, take an excursion to the stunning Cape Winelands for wine tasting, or go whale watching in nearby Hermanus (Jun.-Nov.). Optional excursions are available for purchase with MyGlobus.

Day 5: Cape Town,Hoedspruit,Makalali Private Game Reserve (Greater Kruger National Park Area)

Location: Greater Kruger National Park Area

Accommodation Name: Makalali Main Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

CAPE TOWN–HOEDSPRUIT–MAKALALI PRIVATE GAME RESERVE (GREATER KRUGER NATIONAL PARK AREA) Operation Safari Fly to Hoedspruit and transfer to Makalali Private Game Reserve. Arrive in the home to an abundance of wildlife including the “Big 5”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Climb aboard your custom safari vehicle for an afternoon game drive with a skilled tracker and professional Ranger. Sip sundowner drinks before returning to your lodge for dinner. (B,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Climb aboard your custom safari vehicle for an afternoon game drive with a skilled tracker and professional Ranger who share fascinating facts about this wildlife paradise, while helping to spot the majestic creatures who call Makalali Private Game Reserve their home. Quench your thirst after today’s safari with a traditional sundowner experience with cocktails in true safari tradition with your small group. TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE ACCOMMODATION Staying in a private game reserve is the ultimate safari experience in South Africa. Go off-road to get close to the wildlife at Makalali Main Lodge, a stylish lodge featuring regional African cuisine, bar/lounge, pool, and spa facilities. Each spacious room features views from a private balcony, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, safe, and a large ensuite bathroom with indoor and outdoor showers!

Day 6: Makalali (Greater Kruger National Park Area)

Location: Greater Kruger National Park Area

Accommodation Name: Makalali Main Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

MAKALALI (GREATER KRUGER NATIONAL PARK AREA) Makalali Magic Rise early for coffee and tea before your morning game drive. Keep an eye out for big cats after their night of hunting. Other animals you may see include kudu, impala, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, spotted hyena, wildebeest, and more. Return for breakfast mid-morning, followed by time to relax at your lodge. Afternoon game drive with sundowner drinks. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTSMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE As the sun sets over the majestic Drakensburg Mountains, enjoy a memorable happy hour in the bush in the nostalgic tradition of early safari explorers.

Day 7: Makalali (Greater Kruger National Park Area)

Location: Greater Kruger National Park Area

Accommodation Name: Makalali Main Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

MAKALALI (GREATER KRUGER NATIONAL PARK AREA) Spotting SkillsSharpen your game-spotting skills on your morning and afternoon game drives. Watch for African buffalo, reintroduced to the area after an absence of more than 50 years, reuniting the “Big Five” to roam freely in the Greater Makalali Nature Reserve. (B,L,D)ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE When not on a game drive, do as the lions do with a rest in the heat of the day. Enjoy your lodge amenities, swim in the pool, pamper yourself with a wellness treatment, kick back on a viewing deck or your private balcony to watch nearby wildlife.

Day 8: Makalali,Hoedspruit,Johannesburg

Location: Johannesburg

Accommodation Name: Sandton Sun

Meals Included: Breakfast

Enjoy a final game drive this morning before boarding your flight from Hoedspruit to Johannesburg. Free time late afternoon and evening.MAKALALI–HOEDSPRUIT–JOHANNESBURG A Jaunt to JoburgEnjoy a final game drive this morning before boarding your flight from Hoedspruit to Johannesburg. Free time late afternoon and evening. (B)

Day 9: Johannesburg

Location: Johannesburg

Accommodation Name: Sandton Sun

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch

JOHANNESBURG From the Dark Enters LightGuided sightseeing includes a visit to [LF] Soweto (Southwestern Township), Nelson Mandela's House, and Constitution Hill, a museum that tells the story of South Africa’s journey to democracy.(B,L)LOCAL FAVORITEA BEACON OF LIGHT Soweto, the largest township in the country, is a part of South Africa’s turbulent past, but this multicultural area is also a reflection of today and hope for tomorrow. Your Local Guide shares insightful stories as you see the Hector Pieterson Memorial and the former neighborhoods of Nobel Peace Prize winners, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Nelson Mandela, featuring the Mandela House—former home of the legendary human rights leader.

Day 10: Johannesburg,Victoria Falls,Zimbabwe

Location: Victoria Falls

Accommodation Name: Ilala Lodge

Meals Included: Breakfast

JOHANNESBURG–VICTORIA FALLS, ZIMBABWE Zoom to Zimbabwe & Sunset SensationsFly to Zimbabwe and transfer to your hotel. Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The remainder of the evening is at your leisure.(B)TOUR HIGHLIGHTTHE RIVER WILD Transfer to the Zambezi River’s edge and board the cruise boat. You’ll be treated like royalty as you take in the scenery and watch for wildlife while sipping and sampling from a selection of included drinks and canapés. Your cruise culminates in a spectacular African sunset!

Day 11: Victoria Falls

Location: Victoria Falls

Accommodation Name: Palm River Hotel

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

VICTORIA FALLS Smoke on the WaterTake a guided walk at Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders), as the locals call it, due to the clouds of mist produced by the cascading cataracts. Learn about the history of the falls and fascinating facts about the local flora and fauna with plentiful photo opportunities. Free time late morning and early afternoon. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a riverside farewell dinner with live entertainment. (B,D)ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME EXPLORE MORE Soar high above the falls on an optional helicopter ride or visit a nearby village to experience the local culture. Optional excursions are available for purchase at MyGlobus.

Day 12: Victoria Falls,Kasane,Botswana,Chobe River,Namibia

Location: Victoria Falls

Accommodation Name: Chobe Princess

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

VICTORIA FALLS–KASANE, BOTSWANA–CHOBE RIVER, NAMIBIA Embarkation ElationTransfer by road to Botswana before embarking on your Chobe River cruise. Lunch is served onboard the beautiful Chobe Princess prior to a sunset cruise to spot big game. (B,L,D)SHIP SPOTLIGHT SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE Carrying a maximum of just 8 guests, the all-inclusive and intimate river safari experience on the Chobe Princess is like being on your very own intimate houseboat. On board, knowledgeable river guides and attentive staff deliver exceptional insights and experience. Each cabin is tastefully decorated in a contemporary style and features its own private view onto the river and landscapes beyond. You’ll also enjoy comfortable spaces on board, including spacious lounge, bar, outdoor viewing deck, and plunge pool!

Day 13: Cruising: Chobe River

Location: Chobe River

Accommodation Name: Chobe Princess

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

CRUISING: CHOBE RIVER Relaxed AdventureChoice of morning activities include a water safari by tender boat, tour of a Namibian village, bird watching, or tiger fishing excursion. Return to the ship for lunch and time to relax. This afternoon, embark on a water safari and get up close to a wide array of wildlife including crocodiles, hippo, and elephant, for which Chobe National Park is known. (B,L,D)TOUR HIGHLIGHTREVERIE ON THE RIVER An extraordinary experience awaits on the Chobe River. A wealth of wildlife gathers here, where herds of elephants may be seen crossing the river, as well as hippos and crocs. A menagerie of mammal species and bird life share the waters of the Chobe to take advantage of the river’s wide banks and lush grasses in one of Africa’s most scenic and tranquil ecosystems.

Day 14: Cruising: Chobe River

Location: Chobe River

Accommodation Name: Chobe Princess

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Choice of activities in the morning and afternoon. Choose from a water safari by tender boat, tour of a Namibian village, bird watching, and a tiger-fishing excursion. Enjoy time on the houseboat to relax and spot animals between activities.CRUISING: CHOBE RIVER Wildlife WonderlandChoice of activities in the morning and afternoon. Choose from a water safari by tender boat, tour of a Namibian village, bird watching, and a tiger-fishing excursion. Enjoy time on the houseboat to relax and spot animals between activities. (B,L,D)

Day 15: Cruising: Chobe River,Kasane,Johannesburg

Location: Kasane

Meals Included: Breakfast

Disembark and transfer to Kasane for your flight to Johannesburg where your tour ends at the airport. Schedule departing flights after 7 pm.CRUISING: CHOBE RIVER–KASANE–JOHANNESBURG Sweet Dreams, AfricaDisembark and transfer to Kasane for your flight to Johannesburg where your tour ends at the airport. Schedule departing flights after 7 pm.(B)

What's Included

  • Transportation

    Transportation includes flights from Cape Town to Hoedspruit, Hoedspruit to Johannesburg, and Johannesburg to Victoria Falls. Additionally, there are road transfers and a Chobe River cruise.

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation includes stays at Southern Sun The Cullinan in Cape Town, Makalali Main Lodge in the Kruger National Park Area, Sandton Sun in Johannesburg, Ilala Lodge and Palm River Hotel in Victoria Falls, and Chobe Princess on the Chobe River.

  • Meals

    Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners are included.

  • Guided Tours

    Guided tours include visits to Bo-Kaap neighborhood, Cape Point Nature Reserve, Boulders Beach, Makalali Private Game Reserve, Soweto, Nelson Mandela's House, Constitution Hill, Victoria Falls, and a Chobe River cruise.

  • Game Drives

    Experience thrilling game drives in Makalali Private Game Reserve with opportunities to see the 'Big 5' and other wildlife.

  • Sunset Cruise

    Enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River in Zimbabwe.

  • Chobe River Cruise

    Embark on a Chobe River cruise in Namibia, with opportunities for water safaris and wildlife spotting.

  • Small Group Discovery

    Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on all Africa safari tours, limited to an average of just 20 guests per departure.

What's Not Included

  • Liability Waiver

    All game viewing is done at your own risk.

    A signed liability waiver is required prior to travel.

  • Optional Excursions

    Optional excursions such as exploring the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Winelands, whale watching in Hermanus, helicopter rides over Victoria Falls, and visits to local villages are not included and can be purchased separately.

Meals

Breakfast daily, 8 lunches, 8 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. During the dry season (September-December) and particularly dry years, water flow to Victoria Falls may be low. 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

Globus offers Small-Group Discoveries on all Africa safari tours. A Small-Group Discovery 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 Globus escorted tour, complete with expert Tour Director, Driver, and Local Guides who ensure that your health and safety is our top priority. A Small-Group Discovery trip is the perfectly sized tour—without the crowds.

UNESCO Sites

Cape Floral Region Protected Areas|Mosi-oa-Tunya / Victoria Falls

Accommodation

Cape Town: Southern Sun The Cullinan, Kruger National Park Area: Makalali Main Lodge, Johannesburg: Sandton Sun, Victoria Falls: Ilala Lodge, Victoria Falls: Palm River Hotel

Check out our Q&As

  • What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the safari in Makalali Private Game Reserve?

    During the safari in Makalali Private Game Reserve, you can expect to see a variety of wildlife including the 'Big 5'—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Other animals you may encounter include kudu, impala, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, spotted hyena, wildebeest, and more.

  • What activities are available during the Chobe River cruise?

    During the Chobe River cruise, you can choose from a variety of activities including water safaris by tender boat, tours of a Namibian village, bird watching, and tiger fishing excursions. You will also have opportunities to spot wildlife such as crocodiles, hippos, and elephants.

  • What is included in the guided sightseeing tour in Johannesburg?

    The guided sightseeing tour in Johannesburg includes a visit to Soweto (Southwestern Township), Nelson Mandela's House, and Constitution Hill, a museum that tells the story of South Africa's journey to democracy.

  • What can I expect during the visit to Victoria Falls?

    During the visit to Victoria Falls, you will take a guided walk to see the falls, also known as Mosi-oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders). You will learn about the history of the falls and the local flora and fauna, with plenty of photo opportunities. There will also be free time for additional activities such as a helicopter ride over the falls or visiting a nearby village.

  • What kind of accommodation is provided during the tour?

    The tour provides accommodation in various locations including Southern Sun The Cullinan in Cape Town, Makalali Main Lodge in the Kruger National Park Area, Sandton Sun in Johannesburg, Ilala Lodge and Palm River Hotel in Victoria Falls, and the Chobe Princess houseboat on the Chobe River.

  • What is the experience like on the Chobe Princess houseboat?

    The Chobe Princess houseboat offers an intimate river safari experience with a maximum of just 8 guests. The houseboat features contemporary decor, private views from each cabin, spacious lounge, bar, outdoor viewing deck, and a plunge pool. Knowledgeable river guides and attentive staff provide exceptional insights and experiences.

  • What are the meal arrangements during the tour?

    The tour includes breakfast daily, 8 lunches, and 8 dinners. Meals are provided at various local restaurants and accommodations throughout the tour.

  • Are there any optional excursions available during the free time in Cape Town?

    Yes, during the free time in Cape Town, you can explore the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, take an excursion to the Cape Winelands for wine tasting, or go whale watching in nearby Hermanus (June to November). Optional excursions are available for purchase with MyGlobus.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    For over 90 years.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    Yes

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    Please contact us for latest Covid-19 policies

  • 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 Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Globus Lighthouse Project - an illuminating initiative where we can all come together to tread lightly and give generously for the globe's greater good. Globus, along with sister companies Avalon Waterways and Cosmos, invite our travellers and partners to help us in supporting causes that provide for a more sustainable planet and a brighter tomorrow.

Reviews of this operator

Lisset  

Great Value for your Money

19-Dec-2022

This is my second time travelling with Globus, would have been my third if not for COVID. The way they plan everything is super organized, the tour managers are very caring and knowledgeable. We always enjoy all the site visits planned for each trip. They start by picking you up from the airport and from then on everything is taken care of up until the last day of your trip, even dropping you off at the airport not matter the time of day or night. The hotels at every city are always great and centrally located so you can walk around during your free time or plan your own visits to different sites.

Joan Cupp (Google Reviewer)  

My go-to escorted travel Co My...

01-Mar-2024

My go-to escorted travel Co My 4th trip with Globus and the did not disappoint. The sales deals they offer make it affordable for me to travel. All of the guides are well versed in the history of the area you travel in.

David R  

What a wonderful trip, thanks Globus

10-Jan-2023

Globus is my favorite travel agency. I tried others, but always come back to Globus. It is a 100% stress free one-stop shop. Easy booking with flight, hotel, transportation and travel insurance all in one place. Great customer service at reasonable prices. Lots of information prepared for the trip to handle travel logistics. I planned and booked my trip within 24 hours. Highly recommended to everyon

Alexander Wright  

Great guide, accommodations, and tours.

28-Dec-2022

We had a fantastic guide, with a great mix of free time and guided tours.

CTRTeach 11  

Globus exceeded my expectations!

20-Dec-2022

This is my first Globus tour. I was pleasantly surprised with the depth and quality. The hotels were top notch, and the cruise on the Nile exceeded my expectations. The cabins were roomy and comfortable, and the food was very good.

Nancy Arias  

The experience was amazing!!

30-Dec-2022

The trip was amazing. Our tour guide was so kind and very knowledgeable. I needed to attend a very important meeting via zoom. She was very understanding and accommodating to my needs and made it happen. I was very grateful! Our driver was by far the best driver I’ve ever encountered! I was beyond impressed with our guide, driver and trip!! I will definitely be back for another adventure!!

Irish Beth Maddock (Google Reviewer)  

Did the Globus Highlands and...

30-Sep-2023

Did the Globus Highlands and Islands Scottish Tour with Ian and Allister. What a trip!! With his sharp wit, immense knowledge and fun humour, Ian absolutely brought Scotland to vivid life with his many tales, informative quips and total, utter passion for history. Was spellbound. Am so VERY thankful I had the opportunity to be on Ian's last bus tour before retiring with Globus. In addition, to being so hard working and helpful, with Allister our driver, I cannot tell you how safe and secure I felt in his capable driving hands. He had some very awkward traffic and interesting roads to navigate with our large bus, (especially on the islands and up north) but he handled it all expertly and without a hitch. So much so, I was able to relax and enjoy the journey. All in all, with our tour, you could tell both these kind men cared very much for those of us who needed the extra help and advice. Made my bucket list trip to Scotland so memorable and wonderful. Thank you Ian and Allister! Globus is truly fortunate to have you both.

Patty Walker (Google Reviewer)  

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland...

11-Aug-2024

Specifically, Cosmos Tour of Ireland and Scotland. August 2024. Let me begin with the positive , the Tour guide was knowledgable, personable and educated! He also was extremely professional and took a genuine interest in providing the highest quality of service to the client. The bus was clean and comfortable and well maintained. The driver was highly experienced and provided excellent transportation. The excursions were acceptable and enjoyable. The Variety of age groups on the trip made for wonderful traveling companions. But unfortunately, that is where the positive ends. The Leonardo hotels that are part of the chain and experience for this specific tour are below quality. We spent a night in a room with a leak in the ceiling. That was known before we checked in and continued to leak while we were there. Another Leonardo hotel, we could not get out of our room. Due to the carpet being ripped up and blocking the door. Most of these hotels I would have walked away from, had I been on my own individual trip. The customer service is missing, customer safety is also missing in these hotels. There is lack of concern to assist customers to their rooms even when it is there responsibility to change the room, there isn't assistance offered. Never have I experienced where you had to absolutely be your own advocate. Because there is no customer concern or care. Quality of food provided is also below standards. It is frowned upon if you request something and often denied. We even had a situation where another individual was placed in the same room we were in and it was considered a "oh well too bad for you." Again, we had to transport our own luggage and bags to a new room. Only after we were our own advocates. We said this stranger and ourselves are not going to stay in the same room. Finally, we received a good room, a room that would be found acceptable in every day normal travel, and we had to change again. Because there was a missing part in a Radiator and this was known to the hotel but yet they still booked us into a room. The radiator would not turn off and the room was steaming hot. So once again, we had to transfer all of our luggage and personal items and trudged down stairwell and elevators to once again change rooms. This is so sad for a bucket list, once in a lifetime, save your money and go on your anniversary trip. The rooms are old and out, dated with stains and tears in carpets and materials. Some of the missing items are a safety concern. Buyer beware! The communication for traveling in other countries is not to the level of customer service and satisfaction that we are used to, we did not expect this level of unacceptable accommodations, much like staying in a hostile. It is the Globus/Cosmos Travel companies responsibility to make sure their accommodations for housing is up to the level of expectations of their customers. The accommodations provided are a reflection of Globus/Cosmos business model and integrity in the global travel industry. This is not everything we experienced, but just a few examples. At this time, their brand appears to be old, outdated, without concern or care for the safety of their clients or their health and welfare as applied to accomodations.Customer service, is their lost art. Choose carefully for travel service. And I would not recommend Globus or Cosmos.

Suneetha Raja (Google Reviewer)  

I have done Newfoundland &...

06-Jul-2024

I have done Newfoundland & Labrador with Iceberg Festival tour with Globus in June 2024. It was absolute rubbish for the price I paid towards the tour. Terrible hotels, horrible meals, barely any sightseeing that is worth while the visit, most importantly, the Iceberg festival never happened. Globus sold this specific tour departure date as the only way to attend this supposed Iceberg Festival. I felt cheated after paying 3527£ for a 13 day tour considering the only reason I picked this departure date was because I wanted to attend this Iceberg festival. I could have used my time and money in a better way doing a different tour with another company. A Canadian company who did the exact same tour is doing it for £2400. I have been travelling with Globus and Cosmos tours since 2008. However, this company tours have been terrible after the covid shutdowns. They are charging more than the premium companies and not providing the equivalent service on par with the prices. Safe to say that I won't be recommending Globus and Cosmos tours to anyone. Try other tour companies that are on the market.

Lynda Bailey (Google Reviewer)  

I really enjoyed my Cosmos...

11-Jun-2024

I really enjoyed my Cosmos tour to Italy last September. However I was totally disappointed by two major things which completely changed the atmosphere of the holiday for me. One was the 'last minute' rearrangement of one of our hotels which then put us well outside of Florence on a trading estate for two nights instead of walking distance from the city walls. That completely blocked any plans or ideas of enjoying Florence in the evening. My biggest disappointment was the terrible travel arrangements and associated advice about travelling through Heathrow Cosmos put in place for me and for which they refused to be accountable despite the fact that they had made the ticket booking on my behalf and I had asked them for appropriate check in advice at all key points before I travelled. As a result I was put on standby when I should never have been (even the BA departure staff were shocked at this) and separated from my luggage which travelled on a later flight. I spent over 6 hrs of my first day in Rome in the airport waiting for my luggage and subsequent transfer to my hotel, without any assistance from Cosmos or BA airside staff. When I complained after my holiday, Cosmos would not take any responsibility at all for the fact that I lost the first day of my holiday and approx. 50% of the time I was due to spend in Rome, preferring to blame BA who in turn were uncontactable about my complaint. Very poor customer service indeed.

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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.

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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.


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