Southern Africa in Style: Cape Town, The Cape Winelands, Sabi Sands and Victoria Falls

Explore a wide swath of Southern Africa from the tip of the continent in Cape Town to thundering Victoria Falls. See the sights and sounds up close as you explore and immerse your senses in the esteemed African wilderness near Kruger National Park. Under the guidance of an expert guide and tracker you learn to read the bush traveling by foot as well as open vehicles. Luxurious boutique accommodations will treat you in style at each turn of your itinerary as you work you're way from the winelands, to the bushlands to the cascading falls in the center of Southern Africa.

Quick Summary

Day	Description	Accommodation
Day 1	Depart from Home
Day 2	Cape Town	Cape Cadogan
Day 3	Cape Town - Cape Peninsula	Cape Cadogan
Day 4	Cape Town - Table Mountain Arial Tram and Bo-Kaap Cultural Tour	Cape Cadogan
Day 5	Private Full Day Winelands Tour + Lunch	Le Quartier Francais
Day 6	Franschhoek - Free Day to Explore or Relax	Le Quartier Francais
Day 7	Transfer to Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve	Dulini Leadwood
Days 8 - 10	Safari in Sabi Sands Private Reserve	Dulini Leadwood
Day 11	Travel to Livingstone, Zambia	Mukwa River Lodge
Day 12	Victoria Falls Exploration, Sunset Bout Cruise	Mukwa River Lodge
Day 13	Victoria Falls - Free Day or Optional Activities	Mukwa River Lodge
Day 14	Depart for Home

Itinerary Detail

Day 1: Depart from Home

Day 2: Cape Town

Daily Summary

Transfers: Cape Town Airport to Cape Town: Private Transfer
Accommodation: Cape Cadogan

VIP Meet & Greet: Cape Town International Airport

Welcome to Cape Town Tim and Lauren! On arrival you will be met at the door of your aircraft with your name on a paging board. Should your aircraft not be directed to the main terminal building, you will be transported to the terminal by bus where your Meet and Greet will be waiting for you as you step off the bus. You will then be assisted through immigration, baggage collection and customs and on to your next service.

Cape Town Airport to Cape Town: Private Transfer

Pickup: Cape Town International Airport at time TBD.
Dropoff: Cape Cadogan

Welcome to Cape Town...

Scenically beautiful, Cape Town is a compelling mix of trendy modern and old-world elegance. Glamorous hotels, world-class dining and stunning vistas merge seamlessly with dynamic student suburbs and vibrant nightlife. Malay and African heritage is evident in the cuisine, traditions and entertainment while the architecture reveals a strong Dutch, German and English flavor and style. Contemporary art is proudly displayed in a variety of galleries and modern boutique hotels, and wine bars and brandy tasting lounges will appeal to the fashionable set. For the well-heeled the finest in opera, ballet, drama and music can be appreciated in style.

A short boat cruise to Robben Island, just over seven km's from Cape Town harbor, you can experience a sense of hopelessness inside the prison cell where South Africa's most beloved legend, Nelson Mandela spent 27 years hard labor. It is difficult to imagine how anyone could rise above the horror of incarceration to become arguably the most iconic and compassionate leader of our era.

An exciting trip up Table Mountain in a cable car provides panoramic views over the "Mother City" and other attractions include the Cultural History Museum, the Castle of Good Hope and the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Greenmarket Square's local crafts markets and the Bo-Kaap's colorful Cape Malay buildings add a sense of authenticity to your trip, and Long Street's vibrant restaurants, bars and clubs come alive after dark. Perhaps wander around the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a working harbor and hub of entertainment and shopping opportunities.

Overnight Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel (Luxury Room - Bed & Breakfast)

Includes: Breakfast
Check in time is 2pm, however you can request early check in on arrival. Additionally, you can leave your luggage with the front desk and use the facilities while you wait for your room to be ready.

Day 3: Cape Town - Cape Peninsula

Daily Summary

Tour: Explore Cape Peninsula
Accommodation: Cape Cadogan
Meals: B, L

Explore Cape Peninsula

Enjoy a privately guided day exploration of the Cape Peninsula, beginning at the working fishing harbor of Kalk Bay, with its bohemian arts and crafts shops, quirky boutiques, and antiques stores. Next, head to the richly historic Simon's Town, a naval town with museums and monuments to bring insight into the colorful past and the shark diving industry. Your guide will lead you in search of a splinter colony of rogue penguins, away from the crowded boardwalks, on a beach known only to locals. Next it's on to the Cape Peninsula for a gentle hike to explore the reserve's secluded beaches and unique wildlife. Your return to Cape Town is via Noordhoek Farm Village a food artisan hub of the Peninsula and a place to get some Kick Ass Ice Cream. Time permitting, we may stop for a sundowner at a local brewery, vineyard, beach or scenic look-out.

Pickup: Hotel at 8:00am
Dropoff: Hotel
Includes: Entrance fees, selection of craft beers, wines, local gins & tonic, specialist tea, coffee & hot chocolate, juices, ice tea,
gourmet pantry with home baked goodies & local snacks. Wild Picnic Lunch.

Day 4: Cape Town - Table Mountain Arial Tram and Bo-Kaap Cultural Tour

Daily Summary

Tour: Full Day Table Mountain and Bo Kaap Walking and Cooking
Accommodation: Cape Cadogan
Meals: B

Full Day Table Mountain and Bo Kaap Walking and Cooking

Start the day on top! Table Mountain is the most prominent feature of Cape Town and the best place to see incredible views of the surrounding geography. Take a self-guided gondola ride up Table Mountain to 3400 feet above sea level. There is plenty of time to walk around, explore the various nature trails to learn about the local flora or "fynbos" before descending back to the city where you're driver will be waiting for you.

Bo-Kaap is the oldest suburb in South Africa with its origins dating back to the Dutch colonists who brought with them slaves from Indonesia, Batavia, Malaysia, India and Africa. It is this mix of cultures that culminates in the unique and incomparable Bo-Kaap culture, custom and cuisines. Enjoy a walk on cobblestone streets that meander between the colorful houses and learn of the important history of these people to Cape Town's modern identity. Working your way towards Cape Town’s famed spice shop, Atlas, take in the heady aromas of spices used in everyday Cape Malay cooking which should pique your senses and prepare your next adventure. Learn the cooking techniques and the integral role food plays in Cape Malay culture before sitting down to enjoy a delicious feast.
ADDITIONAL COST: $250 per person / Duration: 8 hours
Pickup: Cape Cadogan at 8:00am
Dropoff: Cape Cadogan at 4:00pm
Includes: Full Day Transportation, Bottled water, and entrance fees and guiding in Bo Kaap

Day 5: Private Full Day Winelands Tour + Lunch

Daily Summary

Tour: Private Full Day Wineslands Tour + Lunch
Accommodation: Le Quartier Francais
Meals: B, L

Private Full Day Wineslands Tour + Lunch

A fabulous day of tastings and pairings, taking in superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads along two of the Cape's famed wine routes. Celebrated wine and food destination, the beautiful Franschhoek Valley was established by French Huguenot refugees in 1688 and offers a captivating blend of European charm and spectacular verdant scenery. Franschhoek’s main street boasts exclusive boutiques, gourmet restaurants and art galleries. Cape Dutch-style farms in the valley produce all the noble and classic cultivars - from superlative whites such as Sauvignon, Chardonnay, Semillon and Chenin Blanc, to intense Syrah, complex Pinot Noir and the famed Méthode Cap Classique sparkling wines. The vibrant heart of the winelands, Stellenbosch, is a paradise of bars and bistros. Grapes have been cultivated in this area for more than 350 years, and it produces South Africa's finest reds. Our day is completely flexible and adjusted to your wine and cultivar preferences.
Duration: 8 hours
Pickup: Cape Town Hotel at 8:00am
Dropoff: Franschhoek Hotel at 4:00pm
Includes: Bottled water, vehicle and guide and entrance fees (This service is on a private basis.)

Day 6: Franschhoek - Free Day to Explore or Relax

Daily Summary

Accommodation: Le Quartier Francais
Meals: B

Free Day to Explore or Relax

Take the day to explore the area on your own or simply relax and recharge.

Day 7: Transfer to Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve

Daily Summary

Transfer: Airport Transfers
Tour: Welcome to the Sabi Sands Private Reserve
Accommodation: Dulini Leadwood
Meals: B, D

Airlink Flight 663

CAPE TOWN

NELSPRUIT

CPT

MQP

DEPARTS

ARRIVES

10:29 AM

12:31 PM

You'll be met at your hotel this morning for a private transfer to the airport for your departing flight to the Kruger Area. Upon arrival you'll be greeted by your local driver in the baggage collection area and begin your 2.5hr drive north to your Luxury Camp in the Private Sabi Sands Reserve.

Franschhoek Hotel Pickup Time: TBD

Welcome to the Sabi Sands Private Reserve

Enjoy 4 nights and 3 full days on safari at the Sabi Sabi Reserve, a recognized ‘hot spot’ of biodiversity which makes for an astonishing variety of wildlife - including over 200 mammal and 300 bird species. Unforgettable day and night safaris are enjoyed in open safari vehicles with close encounters with the Big 5 being a regular occurrence. Environmental awareness walking safaris add an extra dimension to the bush experience, allowing a close-up look at the fascinating smaller creatures of the bushveld.

Overnight at Dulini Leadwood or Similar

Includes: Conservation levy, all meals, tea and coffee, two daily game drives and a daily bush walk.

Days 8 - 10: Safari in Sabi Sands Private Reserve

Daily Summary

Tour: Sabi Sabi Safari
Accommodation: Dulini Leadwood
Meals: B, L, D

Sabi Sabi Safari

Enjoy 3 days on safari at the Sabi Sabi Reserve, a recognized ‘hot spot’ of biodiversity which makes for an astonishing variety of wildlife - including over 200 mammal and 300 bird species. Unforgettable day and night safaris are enjoyed in open safari vehicles with close encounters with the Big 5 being a regular occurrence. Environmental awareness walking safaris add an extra dimension to the bush experience, allowing a close-up look at the fascinating smaller creatures of the bushveld.

Day 11: Travel to Livingstone, Zambia

Daily Summary

Transfer: Airport Transfer
Accommodation: Mukwa River Lodge
Meals: B, D

Airlink Flight 470

NELSPRUIT

LIVINGSTONE

MQP

LVI

DEPARTS

ARRIVES

11:35 AM

1:30 PM

After breakfast, pack your bags for Victoria Falls! Head out with your private driver in an air conditioned van for a 2.5hr drive to the Nelspruit airport for your direct flight to Livingstone, Zambia and the Victoria Falls. Upon arrival you'll be greeted and transferred to your accommodation for the evening.

Welcome to Victoria Falls, Zambia

When you wander through the lush rainforests above the Victoria Falls, newly baptized in the mist, your ears holding the echo of thundering waters, it isn't hard to imagine that this is where it all began. Eden. As the land cuts away beneath the ancient Zambezi River, the waters plummet dramatically into the Batoka Gorge, over 100 meters below. The angrily churned up spray shoots skyward, painting the landscape in billowing clouds. This striking "smoke that thunders" can be seen for miles, a geographic pointer summoning visitors into its presence.

The vibrant town of Victoria Falls is known as the adventure capital of the world, and if your eyes light up at the thought of conquering the "Stairway to Heaven" or "The Terminator" in a raft, then this is the place for you. While the notorious Nyaminyami (Zambezi River God) watches from its mythical depths, and the majestic basalt cliffs allow your passage through the canyon's exquisite landscape, adventure seekers are assured of a good time. From Grade 5 white-water rafting, bungee jumping and abseiling the amusement never ends.

What makes this destination so memorable is the fact that it is perfectly combined with warmly hospitable people, exquisite scenery and an array of accommodation. Excellent game, historic ruins, fishing and luxury train travel are easily accessible from Victoria Falls, as are the neighboring countries which border this fascinating town.

Day 12: Victoria Falls Exploration, Sunset Bout Cruise

Daily Summary

Tour: Victoria Falls Walking Tour
Tour: Victoria Falls Sunset Cruise
Accommodation: Mukwa River Lodge
Meals: B, L, D

Victoria Falls Walking Tour

After meeting your 'local resident' guide, head to the Falls for breath-taking vistas and insight into the spectacular rainforest bathed in the mist from the waterfall. Meander into town center, visiting Elephant Walk, a hotspot of artisan shops and galleries, then perhaps try some bargaining at the colorful craft market. Lunch at the Lookout Café overlooking the dramatic Batoka Gorge (own expense). Lot of other excursions are possible at Victoria Falls, just ask!

Victoria Falls Sunset Cruise

Take in the sunset and wildlife on an afternoon cruise up the Zambezi River. Learn about this history of the falls and be on the lookout for wildlife on the banks or crossing the river as the sunset turns the waters around into a golden marmalade shimmer.

Day 13: Victoria Falls - Free Day or Optional Activities

Daily Summary

Accommodation: Mukwa River Lodge
Meals: B, L, D

Free Day in Victoria Falls

Spend the day at leisure or book any number of excursions through the concierge at your hotel. Indulge in relaxation at the lodge with a spa treatment, return to the town of Livingston to visit some of the curio shops in case you missed them the previous day or schedule a safari in the near by Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, or get a birds eye view of the falls on a private helicopter flight (all services and activities at additional expense). However you wish to spend your last full day in Africa is up to you!

Day 14: Depart for Home

Daily Summary

Transfer: Airport Transfer
Meals: B

Airlink Flight 483

LIVINGSTONE

JOHANNESBURG

LVI

JNB

DEPARTS

ARRIVES

1:25 PM

8:10 PM

You will be met in the hotel lobby by your private driver & guide who will assist with luggage and escort you to the airport for your departing flight to Johannesburg, South Africa to make your international connection home.

Accommodation

Cape Cadogan

Cape Town, South Africa

Website: Cape Cadogan

The Cape Cadogan is an elegant and luxurious double-storied Georgian and Victorian building that dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. It was originally a single story Georgian farmhouse, which was ‘Victorianized’ in the later part of the century. A second floor was added by the owner in 1912, Mr Heinrich Becker, using a renowned architect and builder of this era. The building was awarded national monument status in late 1984. Cape Cadogan has undergone a two-year refurbishment and reopened on 19 December 2022. Her look is elegant and stylish, in beautiful emerald greens, classic black and white, and touches of gold. On property are 12 luxuriously appointed en suite bedrooms, decorated with an eclectic mix of antique and contemporary furniture, for the utmost comfortable and enjoyable stay. The public areas in Cape Cadogan include an inviting lounge with sofas and an open fireplace, gardens and a swimming pool, as well as a library with complementary computer access. A delicious breakfast is served in the dining room, overlooking the courtyard garden and pool. Located just off of Kloof Street, the property is surrounded by charming restaurants and boutique shops. It is also within easy walking of some of Cape Towns city center sights, such as the Company Gardens, National Museum and Art Gallery, parliament buildings and Greenmarket Square. SEE MORE DETAILS HERE.

Le Quartier Francais

Franschhoek, South Africa

Website: Le Quartier Francais

At the heart of the Cape Winelands, Le Quartier Français is a boutique retreat where contemporary elegance meets the easy charm of Franschhoek village. Part of the Leeu Collection, the property offers just a handful of individually styled rooms and suites, creating an intimate and indulgent stay steps from the valley’s celebrated restaurants, galleries, and wine estates. Accommodation is designed with comfort and character in mind. Auberge Rooms are inviting and well-appointed, perfect for couples looking for a cozy base in town, with king beds, spacious bathrooms, and thoughtful luxuries like underfloor heating. Grande Rooms offer more space, with generous lounge areas and private terraces overlooking the manicured gardens or pool—ideal for extended stays or those wanting extra room to unwind. For the ultimate in comfort, the hotel’s Suites provide a residential-style experience with separate living areas, oversized bathrooms, and private gardens or terraces that invite relaxation and privacy.

Guests can spend the day enjoying the lush gardens, take a dip in the secluded pool, book an in-room spa treatment, or even enjoy a film in the hotel’s private cinema. Dining is a highlight: Protégé serves inventive small plates in a relaxed bistro style, while Epice delivers an intimate, multi-course tasting menu inspired by global spices and flavors. Staying at Le Quartier Français also unlocks exclusive guest privileges at Leeu Estates, just five minutes away, including access to the Leeu Spa, the acclaimed Everard Read Gallery, art-filled gardens, mountain walking trails, and wine tastings at the estate’s boutique winery. With these experiences, guests enjoy not only a luxurious stay in the village but also a gateway to the very best of Franschhoek’s food, wine, and art culture.

Dulini Leadwood

Nelspruit, South Africa

Website: Dulini Leadwood

Dulini Leadwood captivates its guests by taking deep root in their hearts, much like the ancient trees after which the Lodge is named. Leadwood Lodge is the ultimate safari choice for discerning travelers in search of luxurious exclusivity and solitude. Tucked secretively into the lush elbow where the Mabrak and Sand rivers confluence, four Leadwood suites whisper of lavish luxury in the breath-taking setting, enchanting every guest. The contemporary elegance of the Leadwood suites is complemented by the chic attention of personal butlers, and the exclusivity of the experience is extended to the safari where no more than six guests are accommodated on the customized Land Rover. Four suites whisper of lavish luxury, offering an idyllic honeymoon setting as well as an appealing venue for soirees of friends and families who relish exclusivity.

Mukwa River Lodge

Livingstone, Zambia

Website: Mukwa River Lodge

Welcome to Mukwa River Lodge, an exclusive boutique family owned retreat situated on the banks of the renowned Zambezi River. Just a short 20-minute journey from the magnificent Victoria Falls, one of the Natural Wonders of the World, this lodge exudes a sense of grandeur and timeless elegance. Imagine yourself on the dining deck, savouring a chic cocktail made with locally foraged berries, herbs & fruits, while gazing across the mighty Zambezi river at the spray of the falls in the distance. At Mukwa River Lodge, luxury meets the African bush, offering an upscale experience whereby you can soak up the natural beauty that surrounds you, and take in the wide open African sky. With its classic charm and refined style reminiscent of a bygone era, Mukwa River Lodge provides accommodation fit for royalty and embodies the essence of bush chic. Every creature comfort is thoughtfully provided, accompanied by 5-star service and exquisite dining comparable to that of an award-winning restaurant. Situated across from the Zambezi national park, you are able to see animals come down to the river to have a drink or graze on the banks of the Zambezi, all from the comfort of your own private deck or plunge pool. Observe elephants and other captivating wildlife as they gracefully traverse the banks of the majestic Zambezi River.

Details

Price Includes

- 3 Nights at Cape Cadogan (Luxury Room, breakfast included)
- 2 Nights Le Quartier Francais (Auberge Room, Breakfast and minibar + 1 wine tasting)
- 4 Nights at Dulini Leadwood (All meals and local drinks included)
- 3 Nights at Mukwa River Lodge near Victoria Falls (all meals and house drinks included)
- Meals and tours as noted throughout your itinerary
- Private vehicle transfers with an English-speaking driver/guide
- 3 Internal flights: Cape Town-Nelspruit / Nelspruit to Victoria Falls / Victoria Falls - Johannesburg.
- All Park & Reserve Entrance Fees
- 24-hour Emergency Support in-country
- Outlier Journeys custom itinerary design & service

Price Excludes

- Meals not noted in the itinerary
- International Flights to Cape Town (CPT) and from Johannesburg (JNB)
- Optional Gratuities (tipping guidelines provided in our Travel Essentials documentation)
- Alcoholic drinks unless specified in the itinerary
- Items of a personal nature (laundry, wellness treatments) unless specified in the itinerary
- Required Travel Insurance (we will send you a quote from Travelex)
- Optional tours not stated or TBD in the itinerary

About Outlier Journeys

Outlier Journeys designs thoughtful, immersive, and personalized global adventures for the modern explorer. We specialize in custom journeys to destinations we know well and where we have developed close relationships with a vetted network of partners. These individuals are leaders in the world of responsible and sustainable tourism and offer our travelers unrivaled insight into their home environs while leveraging tourism to drive conservation and social enterprise within their communities.

WHAT DEFINES AN OUTLIER JOURNEY?

Locally Led: Expert local guides grant our traveler's insider perspective and personal insight into the culture, history, politics and socio-economic facets of a destination.
Independent, Boutique Hotels: Properties with a true sense of place, led by local staff and responsibly managed.
Active Adventures: Human powered-adventures are the most immersive. All of our trips have an active component to them - hiking, biking, horseback riding, kayaking, trekking or participating in surf lessons or a yoga class.
Social Impact: Outlier Journeys trips support social issues such as education, women's empowerment and sustainable rural tourism development in less-frequently visited areas.
Environmental & Cultural Conservation: Through local partnerships and 1% for the Planet, we support reforestation and regeneration projects globally, recommend properties engaged in conservation and research and promote the preservation of indigenous cultures and wisdom.

With a special focus on Latin America, Africa and Asia plus select European destinations, we collaborate closely with our travelers to guide their trip vision to life, seamlessly and with great care. The result is full-service custom travel planning with an intentional eye towards how our travelers move through and interact with a destination, and where their travel dollars will have the greatest positive impact.

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