South Africa: From the Cape to Kruger

3 ★ Accommodation Standard
from €4,131
for 12 Nights
South Africa-A group of travellers on a South Africa tour exploring the iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town.

This comprehensive 13-day South Africa tour is an ideal choice for travellers looking to experience the diverse beauty of the Rainbow Nation without overstretching their budget. As an organised Escorted Tour, it begins in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town and concludes in Johannesburg, covering the most iconic highlights along the way. You will have the opportunity to see the ‘Big Five’ in their natural habitat and explore the rugged coastlines of the southern cape. Cape Town itself is a city regularly voted as one of the most beautiful in the world, and here you will take the cable car to the top of Table Mountain for panoramic views of the Atlantic. This itinerary is designed for those who appreciate natural wonders, from the endangered penguins at Stony Point to the dense coastal forests of Tsitsikamma.

As you move along the famous Garden Route, the scenery changes from rugged cliffs to lush greenery. You will visit a local ostrich farm and explore the ancient Cango Caves, home to incredible limestone formations. The wildlife portion of the trip is truly exceptional. In Mkuze Game Reserve and the world-renowned Kruger National Park, you will ride in open-air safari vehicles with expert guides who know exactly where to find the local wildlife. Whether you are spotting a cheetah on the hunt or watching a herd of elephants at a watering hole, the experience is designed to get you as close to nature as possible.

The tour also includes a unique venture into Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), where you can meet local artisans and learn about the traditions of the Swazi people. Cultural immersion is a key part of this trip, with an immersive Zulu village visit that provides genuine insight into local life. Before finishing in Johannesburg, you will travel the Panorama Route. This drive traces the Blyde River and offers some of the most dramatic canyon landscapes on the continent. Throughout the trip, your internal flights and ground transportation are all handled, allowing you to relax and focus on the incredible sights. This is a straightforward, high-value way to see one of the world’s most fascinating countries in the company of like-minded travellers who share a passion for adventure and discovery.

What kind of wildlife can I expect to see?

During your game drives in Kruger and Mkuze, you may see the ‘Big Five’ (lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and buffalo), as well as zebra, cheetah, hippo, giraffes, and various bird species.

Is the Table Mountain cable car always available?

The cableway usually closes for annual maintenance for about a month between late July and mid-September. If it is closed during your visit, a private tour of Kirstenbosch National Garden is provided instead.

What is the maximum group size for this tour?

This South Africa tour is limited to a maximum of 24 guests per departure to ensure a more personal and comfortable experience.

What's Included+
  • Booking advice from your Travel Escapes travel advisor
  • All internal flights
  • Guided city sightseeing of Cape Town
  • Admission to Table Mountain aerial cable car, Cape Point Nature Reserve, and Cape of Good Hope Lighthouse funicular
  • Entry to Stony Point Nature Reserve to see the penguin colony
  • Guided gin tasting experience
  • Scenic drive along the world-famous Garden Route
  • Guided hike in Tsitsikamma National Park
  • Game drives by land and water in Mkuze Game Reserve
  • Admission to Swaziland Arts Centre and Glass-blowing Factory
  • Swazi village visit with lunch and cultural entertainment
  • Morning and afternoon game drives in the Greater Kruger National Park area
  • Services of a professional Tour Director and Safari Guide

Itinerary

1
Arrive in Cape Town+

Welcome to South Africa. On arrival in the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure to explore the vibrant V&A Waterfront or relax after your flight.

2
Table Mountain and City Sights+

Enjoy a guided tour of the city, including a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain for spectacular views. Note that during maintenance periods, a private tour of Kirstenbosch National Garden is included instead.

3
Cape Point and African Penguins+

Travel along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the world's most scenic coastal routes. Visit Cape Point, the southwesternmost tip of Africa, and see the endangered African penguins at Stony Point Nature Reserve.

4
Garden Route Exploration+

Begin your journey along the famed Garden Route. Visit a local ostrich farm in Oudtshoorn for a guided tour and enjoy a unique gin tasting experience in the heart of this scenic region.

5
Cango Caves and Knysna+

Marvel at the impressive stalagmites and stalactites of the Cango Caves before continuing to the lagoon-side town of Knysna, known for its stunning natural beauty and local crafts.

6
Tsitsikamma National Park+

Take a guided hike through the unique coastal forest of Tsitsikamma National Park. Walk across the suspension bridge at Storms River Mouth and take in the dramatic ocean views.

7
Mkuze Game Reserve+

Head into the wild at Mkuze Game Reserve. Enjoy game drives where you can watch for lion, leopard, rhino, and giraffe. Learn about local Zulu customs during an immersive village visit with lunch.

8
Lake Jozini Cruise+

Enjoy a boat cruise on Lake Jozini. This area is home to hippo, Nile crocodile, and frequently attracts elephants to the shoreline for a drink. It is a fantastic way to view wildlife from a different perspective.

9
Cultural Traditions in Eswatini+

Cross the border into the Kingdom of Eswatini. Visit an arts centre and a glass-blowing factory to interact with local artisans. Enjoy a Swazi village visit with traditional lunch and cultural entertainment.

10
Greater Kruger National Park Area+

Travel to the world-renowned Greater Kruger National Park area. This evening, relax and prepare for your safari adventures in one of the most famous wildlife sanctuaries on the planet.

11
South Africa tour Safari Adventures+

Set off in open-air safari vehicles for morning and afternoon game drives. Your expert Safari Guide will help you track the 'Big Five' and other incredible animals like cheetah and spotted hyena.

12
The Panorama Route+

Depart for Johannesburg via the scenic Panorama Route. This dramatic landscape traces the Blyde River and offers breathtaking views of deep canyons and rugged rock formations.

13
Johannesburg and Home+

Your journey concludes in Johannesburg. After breakfast, you will be transferred to the airport for your return flight home, taking with you memories of an incredible African adventure.

DateAcc.PriceBooking
04 Sep 2026Twin04 Sep 2026Twin€4,205Enquire Now
15 Jan 2027Twin15 Jan 2027Twin€4,131Enquire Now
12 May 2028Twin12 May 2028Twin€4,602Enquire Now
Booking Remarks
  • Booking deposit: enquire at time of booking
  • Prices are per person based on two sharing.
  • Single Supplement applies.
  • A non-refundable / non-transferable deposit is required at the time of booking.
  • Balance due 16 weeks before departure.
  • Optional insurance available (terms & conditions apply).
  • Taxes, prices & itinerary subject to change.
  • Booking terms & conditions apply.
  • Travel Insurance is not included.

 

Ref: COS

from €4,131
for 12 Nights

Your Tour Specialist

Eleanor M
Eleanor MCall Us:01-294 1000Email:book@travelescapes.ie
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