Tara Williams

Book With Tara

9 Day Essential South Africa

Mar 21, 2026 to Mar 29, 2026

Cape Town, Limpopo Province

Know Before You Go
Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones.

Getting Ready to Go

Passports and Visas

It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the dates of travel and a visa if required. IMPORTANT: Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passengers who enter, leave and then re-enter the same country on their itinerary should check if they require a double-entry visa. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies. Passengers requiring visas, whether obtained in advance or locally upon arrival, should ensure that their passport has blank pages.

SOUTH AFRICA - Passengers are required to have at least two, entirely blank (unstamped) visa pages (i.e. one side of such a page not front and back thereof) in their passport, each time entry is sought into South Africa, including re-entry from eSwatini. Therefore, passengers continuing on to Zimbabwe and/or Botswana are required to have four blank visa pages. These pages are in addition to the endorsement/amendment pages at the back of the passport. South African government regulations prohibit airlines from boarding passengers without the required blank visa page. For more information, please visit the South African consulate website http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/tourist_visa.htm or http://www.southafrica-newyork.net/homeaffairs/

Trip Preparation

A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas, driver's license) are in order. Make sure also that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip and carry them with you in case your luggage is delayed. Bring a change of clothes in your carry-on bag in the event that your luggage is delayed or lost. Lost luggage is common. We strongly urge you to consider carry-ons instead of checked bags when possible, and when checking a bag is necessary, choose a bag color and identification that stands out. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, personal ID and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. You may also make a digital copy of your passport to keep a clear picture with the important details in your cell phone or digital camera photos. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. You may consider bringing a small supply of over-the-counter medications for headaches and/or anti-diarrhea pills (especially when traveling outside of the USA and Western Europe). We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock. Due to security reasons, many museums have restrictions on the size of bags that can be taken inside, and backpacks, carry-on bags or large purses may not be permitted. It is recommended to bring a small shoulder bag or purse to use in these situations instead. Avoid placing valuables such as cameras in your checked luggage. Airplane pressure can cause similar pressure in your body, most notably in ears, as well as liquid tubes and bottles. Your physician can suggest medication for decongestion. We suggest that you place liquid containers into Ziploc bags to catch any leaks.

Climate & Clothing

South Africa & eSwatini - Spring and Autumn: 55-70°F, Summer: 60-80°F, Winter: 45-65°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, clothes you can layer, and an all-weather jacket. Sunscreen, hat, and sunglasses are also recommended. A bandanna or light scarf is recommended as protection against dust and dirt on game drives. On game reserves, it is recommended to wear neutral colors such as khaki and beige, which are most comfortable during the heat of the day. Binoculars are a must for wildlife viewing, and a long-range lens is recommended for photography.

South Africa & eSwatini - While the majority of South Africa is malaria-free, visitors to Kruger National Park and the Limpopo Province are encouraged to consult their health care providers regarding malaria prophylaxis. Malaria is endemic to the Kruger National Park Area. The Waterberg region of the Limpopo Province is considered a non-endemic area however as of March 2017, the CDC has received official reports of possible locally transmitted cases of malaria in this region and further investigation and surveillance is taking place. Visitors should use mosquito repellent and wear long pants, closed shoes, and a lightweight long sleeve shirt when in this area. Additionally, you may encounter mosquitoes in other areas, both rural and urban, especially during wet seasons. Please consult your physician before traveling to South Africa.

This tour visits areas of high elevations on the Panorama Route (5,870 feet) and in eSwatini (6,110 feet) and may cause temporary altitude discomfort for some travelers. Those affected should avoid over-exertion, drink extra water, and eat lightly.

Travel Protection is highly recommended, you can book with your preferred company, or you can add, to your package

Embark on an incredible tour across Ghana, a country rich with history, colorful culture, and stunning scenery. Start with an immersive tour of Accra’s city center, where you can discover the vibrant energy of the city, its historic sites, and its bustling markets. Next, discover tranquility by taking an Akosombo Boat Cruise down the magnificent Volta River, where you can indulge in

Book by February 28,2025 you will save $300.00 off per person- (invoice will be updated.

example $1477.00-$300.00=$1177.00 per person double occupancy

What's included in this trip

Intra-flight Cape Town-Johannesburg

7 nights' accommodations

5 nights Cape Town

2 nights Limpopo Province

Hotel taxes, fees & service charges

Arrival & departure transfer

10 meals: 6 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

Sightseeing & Game Drives per itinerary

Services of English-speaking tour manager throughout

What’s not included in this trip

Airfares

Travel insurance

Optional Tours

Non-included meals

Tips to guide, drivers, and other service providers

Items of personal nature such as telephone calls, laundry, room service, etc.

Suggested Tipping

Gratuities

Tipping is always a matter of personal discretion. For your convenience, please refer to the summary below as a guideline for recommended gratuity amounts. Gratuities may be paid in local currency or US dollar equivalent where accepted. On some itineraries, you may encounter multiple drivers and local guides throughout. We recommend keeping small bills on hand for tipping.

Please be aware that many locals consider tipping to be a customary part of their compensation, and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to feel intimidated by these requests, nor should you feel pressured to tip beyond the suggested amounts. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour manager.

Suggested Tipping: Southern Africa & eSwatini

Tour Manager (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide): US $10 per person per day
Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage): US $4 per person per day, US $2 per half day
Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program): US $4 per person per day of sightseeing, US $2 per half day
Game Drive Ranger: US $6 per person per day

Itinerary:

DAY 1, Saturday - Depart for South Africa
Depart for South Africa

DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Cape Town
Arrive in Cape Town. As you transfer to the hotel, you will see the city's iconic symbol, Table Mountain, greeting you in the distance. Balance of the day is at leisure
Overnight: Cape Town

DAY 3, Monday - Cape Town Leisure day

DAY 4, Tuesday - Cape Town City Tour
This morning, embark on a city tour of Cape Town. Pass famous landmarks including the Castle of Good Hope, City Hall, the Grand Parade, St. George's Cathedral, Company Gardens, and the Malay Quarter. The route then leads to Kloof Nek and Table Mountain. Perhaps ascend to the summit by cable car (ticket not included) for bird's eye view of the city and its beaches. Continue to the V & A Waterfront where you will have the opportunity to learn the three-billion-year-old story of diamonds while touring prominent Shimansky Jewelers & Museum. Following the tour (or for those who do not wish to participate) stroll through the adjacent V & A Waterfront with its endless shopping and dining opportunities before returning to your hotel for an afternoon at leisure. In the evening, attend an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager
Overnight: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 5, Wednesday - Full Day in Cape Town
While in Cape Town, don't miss the optional tour to Cape Peninsula, known for its steep mountains, secluded coves, and pristine beaches. The Cape of Good Hope, within Table Mountain National Park, is home to at least 250 species of birds as well as antelope, ostrich, and baboons. Walk the rugged cliffs or take the famous Flying Dutchman funicular that climbs uphill to the old lighthouse. Afterward, visit Boulders Beach to see the unique spectacle of penguins waddling freely, and walk through Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Tonight, attend the Traditional African Dinner Experience for a memorable evening of live performances and African gastronomy before returning to the hotel
Optional: Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour
Overnight: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 6, Thursday - Full Day in Cape Town
Spend the day at leisure in Cape Town. Perhaps join the optional South African Wine Tour* which takes you along the country's principal wine route to the scenic towns of Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch with tastings along the way. Alternatively, thrill seekers will not want to miss the optional excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience shark cage diving*
*The South African Wine Tour and Full Day Shark Cage Diving operate simultaneously. Passengers may opt to participate in only one of these tours
Optional: South African Wine Tour
Optional: Full Day Shark Cage Diving
Overnight: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast

DAY 7, Friday - Flight to Johannesburg, Evening Game Drive
This morning, fly to Johannesburg, known as "Gauteng: The City of Gold." Upon arrival, drive to Limpopo Province located just three hours outside of Johannesburg. Your stay will be at a game reserve where the varied habitats provide ideal conditions for a selection of large mammals including the Big Five (lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard, and rhino). After lunch at the lodge, take a late afternoon game drive accompanied by a ranger to uncover the magic of the African bush. This evening, dinner is at the lodge
Overnight: Limpopo Province
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 8, Saturday - Morning and Afternoon Game Drives
Depart early for a morning game drive. Drive in open safari vehicles where you may have a chance to see not only the large beasts but also the smaller mammals, birds and insects. After lunch, relax at the lodge before setting out for your afternoon game drive. Return in time for dinner and toast to your final night in South Africa
Overnight: Limpopo Province
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

DAY 9, Sunday - Depart South Africa
Awake early this morning and set out on your final game drive. After the game drive, bid farewell to the bush and travel east toward Johannesburg. Arrive to the O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg at 4 PM for your departure flight. Please select flights that depart no earlier than 6:50 PM
Meals: Breakfast

Flight Information

Flight Schedule will be shared later.

The flight to Africa you will have, the option of booking your own flight.

But there will be a GROUP flight.

Payment Schedule

The full deposit is $300.00 per person -non-refundable

You will have the option to pay as listed below

Monthly Payments $200 or more per person, due by the 5th each month

Final Payment due: 20 Dec 2025

Optional Tours please add to your package when booking if interested.

Please be sure to select 1 or 2 guest for optional tours & travel protection.

Protea Hotel Fire & Ice Cape Town Cape Town, South Africa -5 nights

Hotel Amenities

Guest Rooms: The accommodations are decorated with modern furnishings and chic decor accents. All rooms are fitted with amenities that will ensure a comfortable stay, such as an in-room safe, a coffee maker and air conditioning.

Location: The hotel is located in the city of Cape Town. Long Street, the South African Museum and the Company Gardens are within a mile of the hotel. The Victoria and Alfred Waterfront is about a ten minute drive away.

Restaurants: The hotel's restaurant serves a variety of scrumptious a la carte dishes. Guests will be sure to enjoy the tasty cocktails that are available in the hotel's bar.

Mabula Game Lodge Waterberg, Limpopo, South Africa-2 nights

Guest Rooms: The rooms feature elegant furnishings and African style decor accents. All rooms are equipped with amenities for a comfortable stay, such as air conditioning, an in-room safe and tea and coffee-making facilities.

Location: During their stay, guests can explore the nearby Mabula Game Reserve. Johannesburg is about a two and a half hour drive away from the lodge. Enjoy the lodge's spa and pool.

Restaurants: The lodge's restaurant serves tasty cuisine for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Refreshments are available at the Pool Cocktail Bar.

Available Packages

Total Tour Package on Double Occupancy MUST HAVE ROOMMATE TO BOOK THIS RATE
Available until March 31, 2025 - available

$1,477.00
Deposit: $300.00 per person

Book now

Total Tour Package on Single Occupancy
Available until March 31, 2025 - available

$1,912.00
Deposit: $300.00 per person

Book now

Extra Options

Travel Protection + Cancel for any reason
Available until March 31, 2025 - available

$188.00

Travel Protection

Missing a vacation is bad enough. Therefore, we recommend that you purchase Travel Protection for your Gate 1 trip. At any time before you complete Final Payment, you may choose to purchase Travel Protection that helps provide coverage for Trip Cancellation, Interruption, Baggage Loss or Delay, Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and more.

Travel Protection Plan Highlights

Medical Coverage for illness or injury, including COVID-19
Trip cancellation, interruption and delay benefits
Baggage loss or delay protection
Pre-existing medical condition exclusion waiver
- Protection plan must be elected within 21 days of booking
- Traveler must not be disabled from travel at the time that the policy is paid
Emergency Medical Evacuation
24-hour emergency travel assistance (non-insurance services)

About Arch Insurance Travel Protection
Travel Protection plan provided by Arch Insurance provides insurance coverage for your trip that applies only during the covered trip. You may have coverage from other sources that provides you with similar benefits but may be subject to different restrictions depending upon your other coverages. You may wish to compare the terms of this policy with your existing life, health, home and automobile policies. If you have any questions about your current coverage, call your insurer, insurance agent or broker. The purchase of this plan is not required in order to purchase any other travel product or service offered to you by your travel retailer. Insurance coverages are underwritten by Arch Insurance Company, NAIC #11150, under policy series LTP 2013 and endorsements thereto. Policies are administered by Arch Insurance Solutions, 1-844-827-9996, CA License #0I18111, TX License #1787195. Your policy is the contract that specifically and fully describes your coverage. Certain restrictions and exclusions apply, and coverages may vary in certain states. Please refer to your policy for detailed terms and conditions. Consumer disclosures can be found at: https://gate1.archinsurancesolutions.com/disclosures

Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit (CFAR) - Provided by Gate 1 (non-insurance feature)

The Cancel for Any Reason Waiver (CFAR) benefit allows for cancellation up to 72 hours before your scheduled departure for any reason not otherwise covered in the Travel Protection Plan. CFAR is a separate non-insurance benefit. Travelers must first attempt to cover cancellation with Travel Protection. The Gate 1 Cancel for Any Reason Waiver Benefit is administered by Gate 1 Travel and must be purchased at the same time as the Travel Protection Plan.

Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour
Available until March 31, 2025 - available

$104.00

Depart on a full day Cape Peninsula tour to experience some of the most spectacular views. Drive to Cape Point at the southwestern tip of the Cape Peninsula, passing steep mountains, secluded coves, and sweeping beaches enroute. Head to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, comprising over 17,300 acres of indigenous flora and fauna, where you may see baboons by the roadside, rheboks, Cape Mountain zebras, bonteboks and the elusive eland. The native plant life, known as fynbos, forms one of only six floral kingdoms in the world. Following the coastline along False Bay, return to Cape Town by way of Simon's Town. Here, visit the penguin colonies at Boulders Beach, and continue with a scenic drive over Muizenberg Mountain. Lastly, visit the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, resting at the foot of Table Mountain, for a short walking tour of the beautiful gardens before finally returning to Cape Town.

Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.

Full Day Shark Cage Diving
Available until March 31, 2025 - available

$247.00

Join a thrilling full day excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience shark cage diving. Early this morning departs Cape Town and head east to the coastal fishing town of Gansbaai. Upon arrival, the crew of your expedition boat will review the day's activities, safety etiquette and provide fascinating insight to these marine predators. Enjoy a light breakfast before boarding your boat and heading out into the open waters between Geyser Rock and Dyer Islander where sharks hunt for seals and penguins. Outfitted with a wetsuit, lifejacket and snorkeling mask, climb through the top of the cage secured to the boat. You will take turns with your fellow divers watching these predators under water and from the comfort of the ship deck.

Return to the port in the early afternoon where you will be greeted with a hot bowl of soup and bread. Relax as the marine biologist recaps your adventure and answers any remaining questions before your return to Cape Town.

*Departure from the hotel will be as early as 4 AM and the drive from Cape Town to Gansbaai is approximately 2.5 hours (one way). The boat will be launched around 9 AM and the boat trip will last between 3-5 hours depending on the weather and sea conditions. Shower facilities will be available after the ship returns from the dive. The return transfer to Cape Town will be at approximately 2 PM and arrival at 4:30 PM. Pick-up and drop-off times are approximate and will be advised locally.

*Due to limited capacity, advanced booking is recommended for this tour. This is not an exclusive tour and therefore you may be with passengers from other tour companies. Shark sightings are not guaranteed and are dependent upon weather and sea conditions. Due to inclement weather and/or rough seas, this tour may be canceled and refunded.

*Sea conditions can be unpredictable and may become choppy or very rough at times. As a result, some customers experience discomfort and/or seasickness. Some over-the-counter medications, such as Dramamine or Benadryl, may help reduce or prevent seasickness. Clients who are prone to seasickness are advised not to participate in this tour.

*Optional "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.

South African Wine Tour
Available until March 31, 2025 - available

$65.00

Wind through South Africa's fertile valleys, prized for their renowned vintages, and discover the rustic beauty of sprawling estates shaded by giant oaks and rows of vines running as far as the eye can see. Travel the country's principal wine route and enjoy tastings at some of the excellent vineyards along the way. Begin with a visit to Stellenbosch, South Africa's second oldest town and the historic heart of the country's wine region. First recognized as an ideal location for vineyards in 1679, viticulture has been entwined with the town's history ever since. Also of interest is the town's fascinating variety of architecture, including buildings in Cape Dutch, Georgian, and Victorian styles. Then continue northwest to the old, scenic village of Franschhoek, founded near the Drakenstein Mountains in 1688 by French immigrants, whose descendants eventually supplied highly sought after wine to Napoleon, Bismarck, and even King Edward VII. Stop for lunch on your own, and then enjoy a final tasting before bidding farewell to the wine country and returning to Cape Town.

Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.