Discover the Exquisite Charm of South Africa at Cresta Grande and Mabula Game Lodge
Embark on an exhilarating adventure through the untamed wilderness of South Africa on a safari like no other. Picture yourself in open-top jeeps, navigating the rugged terrain, as you witness the raw beauty of the African savannah unfold before your eyes. Encounter majestic creatures up close, from the towering elephant herds to the graceful giraffes gracefully grazing on acacia trees. Imagine the thrill of being in the presence of the mighty African lion, its presence commanding respect and awe. But a South Africa safari is not just about wildlife; it's a sensory journey, where the earthy scents of the bush mingle with the distant roar of lions, creating an immersive experience unlike any other. With its diverse landscapes, from the iconic Kruger National Park to the breathtaking Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park, South Africa offers a variety of safari options to cater to every adventurer's dreams. Whether you are a wildlife enthusiast seeking the Big Five or a nature lover looking to reconnect with the untouched wilderness, a safari in South Africa will leave an indelible mark on your soul. So, don't miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity; pack your bags and let the untamed beauty of South Africa's safari sweep you off your feet.
Special Features
November 26, 2024 Departure:
United Airlines 9717
New York, NY (JFK): 26 Nov 2024 04:25PM
Zurich, Switzerland (ZRH): 27 Nov 2024 06:10AM
LAYOVER
Swiss Intl Air Lines LTD 8086
Zurich, Switzerland (ZRH): 27 Nov 2024 09:40AM
Cape Town, South Africa (CPT): 27 Nov 2024 10:05PM
December 3, 2024 Return:
Swiss Intl Air Lines LTD 283
Johannesburg, South A (JNB): 03 Dec 2024 08:25PM
Zurich, Switzerland (ZRH): 04 Dec 2024 06:15AM
LAYOVER
Swiss Intl Air Lines LTD 16
Zurich, Switzerland (ZRH): 04 Dec 2024 09:50AM
New York, NY (JFK): 04 Dec 2024 01:00PM
DAY 1, Tuesday - Depart for South Africa
Depart for South Africa
DAY 2, Wednesday - 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, Thursday - Cape Town City Tour
After an orientation meeting with your Tour Manager, depart on a city tour. 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
Overnight: Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Friday - Full Day in Cape Town DAY 5, Saturday - Full Day in Cape Town DAY 6, Sunday - Flight to Johannesburg, Evening Game Drive DAY 7, Monday - Morning and Afternoon Game Drives DAY 8, Tuesday - Depart South Africa
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IMPORTANT: You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary.
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Reimbursement for Trip Cancellation or Interruption
Medical Coverage & Emergency Medical Evacuation
Baggage Loss, Delay or Theft Protection
24-hour Emergency Assistance
Approximate tour duration is 8 hours.
Treat yourself to a memorable evening of entertainment and traditional African gastronomy. Enjoy an exciting interactive djembe drumming session before dinner. Then, savor a 14-course meal with dishes from several African nations, accompanied by live performances. While dining, you will also witness an extraordinary Mali puppet show.
Approximate tour duration is 4.5 hours.
Join a thrilling full day excursion to "Shark Alley" to experience shark cage diving. Early this morning depart 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.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
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.
*Optionals "Full Day Shark Cage Diving" and "South African Wine Tour" operate at the same time and should not be booked together.
Take off in a hot air balloon as you admire the breathtaking sunrise over the Mabula Private Game Reserve. Drift above the beautiful landscape, watching wild game roam below. At the end of your flight, enjoy a celebratory glass of sparkling wine in the bush. Continue game viewing as you take a leisurely drive back to the lodge.
*Please Note: Departure time for this excursion is very early in the morning, 5 AM or earlier. The take-off time and the duration of the flight and tour may vary due to weather conditions. Balloon rides will vary and can take up to an hour. Approximate tour duration is 2 hours. Agility is required to embark and disembark the balloon basket. Wildlife viewing, quantity and species of animals seen is dependent upon local conditions including weather, wind and seasonal migration patterns.
This tour is not exclusive and requires 4 passengers minimum to operate
The Mabula Balloon Safari optional is only available when staying at Mabula Game Lodge
Due to limited capacity, advanced booking is required for this tour.