Experience South Africa 2025

Sep 19, 2025 to Sep 27, 2025
Cape Town, Pilansberg, and Johannesburg

 

 

 

 

 Sawubona (Greetings)!

Join the Travel Curio’s 2025 Experience South Africa ‘Cousins Trip.’ Gather your travel squad, rally your friends, and pack your bags because South Africa is calling! From the vibrant cities and pristine beaches to untamed wildlife, this is a journey filled with unforgettable moments. Indulge in world-class local cuisine and refreshing world-class wineries.

Let’s soak in the panoramic views from Table Mountain or simply relax at the Victoria and Albert waterfront or have an evening stroll on the golden beaches of Cape Town. After a short flight to Johannesburg, we’ll journey to Pilanesberg National Park for a sophisticated glamping experience while witnessing the majesty of the Big Five in their natural habitat. We’ll return to Johannesburg for a tour of Soweto. And of courses, there has to be some time for shopping.

Don’t miss out on this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to experience the wonders of South Africa with your nearest and dearest friends or the new friends you will make.

Who are the cousins and why is this The Cousins Trip? According to the dictionary, a cousin/cousins are "a thing or a person analogous to one another." Thus, whether we are related by blood, friendship or we just met, on a Cousins Trip, we belong to a group with an intended purpose to enjoy life and  fulfill travel curiosities through authentic experiences. So, with unobtainable enthusiasm, let's go Cousins!

Please note: This trip requires a total of 10 travelers to move forward. 

 

Experience South Africa Includes: 
 
  • 9 days and 8 nights in luxurious accommodations

    • 4 nights in Cape Town

    • 2 nights in Pilanesberg 

    • 2 night in Johannesburg

  • Welcome Dinner - The Black Out
  • Breakfast Daily
  • Cape Town Tour 
  • Pinotage and Pearls Winery Experience 
  • Soweto Tour

  • Pilansberg Game Drives 
  • Farewell Dinner - Golden Moments 
  • In-country flight to Johannesburg*
  • Group Ground Transportation 
  • Hotel Taxes unless mentioned in exclusions
  • Airport Transfer for in-country group flight only

 
 
 
 

 

What's Not Included: 

  • Round trip airfare to South Africa and any fees associated with airfare, departure taxes.

  • Passport and any applicable visa fees
  • Travel insurance - required. receipt of travel documents and final itinerary

    • Cancel for Any Reason (CFAR) plans only available if purchased within 10 days of booking travel
    • Plans beyond CFAR should be purchased prior to the final payment
  • Personal expenses and items of a personal nature

  • Optional tours and all tours recommended by local guide(s)

  • Any meals not mentioned in the  itinerary 

  • Alcoholic beverages  

  • Early check-in and check-out. Standard check-in is 2:00 pm and check-out at 11:00 am
  • Negative energy. Good vibes only
  • Expecting American culture and cuisine to be the top priority of the citizens of South Africa. Many of our group lunches and dinners will include local cuisine. However, there are endless restaurants featuring international cuisines.
  • Any unforeseen increases in local/government taxes such as tourism tax
  • Gratuities for Drivers, Porter, Tour Guide

    • Gratuities for Tour Guides (suggested $10 - $15 per day)
    • Gratuities for Driver (suggested $5-$6 per day)

 

 

 

ACCOMMODATIONS
Indulge in world-class accommodations 
 

Accommodations are based on double occupancy with twin/double bedding. Single occupancy has a king size bed. Couples will be placed in king rooms based on availability. Please inform via email if twin/double bedding preferred.  A similar hotel property may be selected based on the group size and availability.

 
Cape Town - Four Star Accommodations.
The hotel is an oasis of sophistication and balance in the heart of vibrant Cape Town. Settled amongst the city's most influential happenings, and adjacent to the city's tourist areas, the hotel provides the perfect central location for our time in Cape Town. 
 

     

 
  

Pilanesberg National Park

 Pilanesberg National Park offers the perfect opportunity to leave the city lights behind, and discover another world. From here we will experience the sophistication of upscale accommodations while immersing ourselves in the splendor of the park. Without a doubt, we're searching for the coveted Big 5!

Johannesburg

Next is a stay in the a hub for the business of  Johannesburg. The hotel provides refined access to  a myriad of trendy cafés, high-street boutiques and al fresco restaurants just moments from its doorstep.

 

As mentioned previously, hotels are subject to change based on group size and availability. Don't worry, we will keep it upscale!

 

ITINERARY:

A detailed itinerary will be sent  30 days prior to departure. Below is an overview of tentatively planned activities:

 
Day 1 - 4 (Cape Town)
  • Welcome dinner
  • Robben Island Tour
  • Cape Town City Tour
  • Wine Tour - Pinotage and Pearls
  • Optional Table Mountain Tour
 
Day 5- 7 (Johannesburg to Pilanesberg ):
  • Sophisticated Safari! - Pilanesberg Game Drives 
  • Relaxation
  • Farewell Dinner
  • Optional Hot Air Balloon Ride
 
Day 8 (Johannesburg) 
  • Soweto Tour
  • A day of leisure to explore Johannesburg including the Sandton area
  • Farewell Dinner

OCCUPANCY RATE DESCRIPTION:
 
Double Occupancy - this mean it's two people staying in the same room.  Select this rate if you have one roommate.  Each of you will have to pay the rate that is listed.
 
Single Occupancy - this means it's only one person staying the room.  Select this rate if you DO NOT have or want a roommate. 
 
 
Steps on How to Book:
  • Click Book Now based on which room category you want
  • On the next screen, it will ask for the number of travelers (in the drop down box, choose the number of people for each individual you're depositing for)
  • On the far right, it will tell you the overall cost of your trip package, then click continue to traveler
  • On the next screen, enter traveler details
  • Then proceed to making the payment by credit or debit card only.  Zelle, CashApp, ACH and checks are not accepted. Please note there may be a currency conversion difference and/or foreign transaction fees applied by your financial institution.

 

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

Travel Requirements: A passport valid 6 months beyond the travel dates is required for entry into South Africa. For this tour, your passport should not expire prior to March 26, 2026.  Also, ensure you do not need a visa for entry into South Africa. Currently, US citizens do not require a visa for visits less than 30 days. The Travel Curio will collect passport identification pages and flight details in February. This will assist with hotel check-in and airport transfers. Check the CDC Travelers Health page for health requirements.

Feel free to contact us if you would like assistance with arranging round-trip/multi-city airfare to South Africa. It is important to note we do not arrange airfare utilizing points.

Travel Insurance: Travel insurance - don’t leave home without it! This is an investment in your well-being, wanderlust or wallet. Therefore, The Travel Curio requires travelers to obtain travel protection insurance for all international destinations or officially sign a waiver. Upon booking, you will receive an email  to accept or decline coverage. If you accept, indicate if you would like to include the cost of the land package or the package plus airfare. 

Arrival and Departure: When scheduling your flights, plan to arrive directly in Cape Town (CPT) and select a departure from Johannesburg (JNB).   The hotel check-in date is September 19, 2025.  The hotel check-out date is September 27, 2025 at 11:00 am. Late check-out is at the discretion of the hotel, including any applicable fees.

Credit Card: A credit card is required upon check-in for room incidentals for each hotel. The hold amount varies. It can be $200-$500 USD. The Travel Curio does not provide a credit for the room. 

Package Pricing: All prices are based on the rate of exchange provided by our travel partners. In the event of a substantive price change, the Travel Curio reserves the right to increase the prices accordingly. You will receive sufficient communication to make an informed decision. 

 Illness and COVID-19: Please refer to the Travel Curio's Terms and Conditions for detailed information.

Group Harmony : The Travel Curio and the tour supplier, reserves the right to accept, reject or expel any individual who is deemed disruptive or incompatible with the interests of the group, including, but not limited to, individuals who are intoxicated and/or under the influence of drugs leading to a negative experience for the remainder of the group. Expenses, including cancellation fees and/or costs for alternate travel plans or to return home, will necessarily be borne by the person who infringes on the experience of others. All unused services are non-refundable.

Terms and Conditions: Please read the entire Terms and Conditions at www.thetravelcurio.com.

Ensure that payments are made on or before the scheduled due date.  All payments must be authorized via the invoice and are non-refundable and non-transferable.  If payments are not received by the agency on or before the monthly invoice Due Date, your reservation(s) may automatically be placed at risk of cancellation.

 Payment plans will be generated upon booking. If a reservation has gone 60 days without a monthly payment, your trip is considered in cancellations status. If after cancellation you would like to reinstate the booking, you will need to pay a reinstatement fee of $150 plus submit any past due amounts within 24 hours of the request. Note: reinstatement is contingent upon tour and accommodations availability.

When a card is declined during your monthly payment plan, we will attempt to charge your card two days later. If your card is declined a second time, you will receive an email to make a payment immediately or your reservation is subject to immediate cancellation. 

Without limitation, traveler(s) voluntarily hold The Travel Curio, LLC harmless for cancellation of booking for either late payments or declination of a credit card. All payments to The Travel Curio are non-refundable and non-transferable. The Travel Curio has contractual agreements with suppliers in which deposit refunds are not allowed. Refunds will not be given due to roommate abandonment . Please ensure your roommate has his/her reservation and they are making timely payments as required. If your roommate is unable to continue with the payments and/or join the trip, contact The Travel Curio to discuss adjusting your trip cost to single occupancy or the potential to find another travel partner. 

The Travel Curio, LLC travel merchant account is through TravelJoy. Travel Joy accepts all major credit cards. We are unable to accept Zelle, CashApp, checks or wire transfers. 

Without limitation, traveler(s) voluntarily hold The Travel Curio, LLC harmless for cancellation of booking for either late payments or declination of a credit card. All payments to The Travel Curio are non-refundable and non-transferable. The Travel Curio has contractual agreements with suppliers in which deposit refunds are not allowed. Refunds will not be given due to roommate abandonment . Please ensure your roommate has his/her reservation and making timely payments as required. If your roommate is unable to continue with the payments and/or join the trip, contact The Travel Curio to discuss adjusting your trip cost to single occupancy or the potential to find another travel partner. 

 

 
      

CANCELLATION POLICY:

Please note the deposit is  paid to the supplier and it's non-refundable and non-transferable.  Airfare (in-country and/or international) are non-refundable. This is a customized private tour; thus, its non-refundable.  In the event of cancellation of travel arrangements due to any reasons, The Travel Curio must be notified of the same in writing  by email at info@thetravelcurio.com in a timely manner to notify all suppliers involved with the planning of this trip. In most instances, cancellation charges will be effective from the time/date we receive your notice in writing. 

 

Given the cancellation policy, TRAVEL INSURANCE is strongly recommended. Each traveler, with the exception of family members traveling together, will be sent an individual insurance quote. Cancel for any reasons plans (CFAR) are only available within 10 days of booking. If declining, a waiver must be signed before applying final payment. Travel documents will not be released until the form is received.

 


Available Packages

DOUBLE OCCUPANCY - You and your bestie, your relative or the love of your life.
Unavailable as of June 29, 2025

$4,280.00
Deposit: $300.00 per person

Rooms feature double twins or full-size beds. If one bed is preferred, please email info@thetravelcurio.com at the time of booking bedding preference.
 
  • Price is per person based on double occupancy.
  • Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. Cancellations are subject to the policy outlined in the terms.
  • This package DOES NOT include round trip airfare to South Africa. 
 
The Travel Curio utilizes TravelJoy as its payment processor. TravelJoy charges a fee of 3.5% + .30 per transaction which is included in the pricing.
 
Cousin, if you select this room and you do not have a roommate or your roommate decide not to go, unfortunately, your package will default to the single occupancy rate.

SINGLE OCCUPANCY - I like y'all but, I need some time alone.
Unavailable as of June 29, 2025

$6,649.00
Deposit: $300.00 per person

Enjoy your king bedded room all to yourself. Do you - relax and unwind.
 
  • Price is per person based on single occupancy.
  • Deposits are non-refundable and non-transferable. This customized private tour is non-refundable.
  • This package DOES NOT include roundtrip airfare to South Africa.
 
The Travel Curio utilizes TravelJoy as its payment processor. TravelJoy charges a fee of 3.5% + .30 per transaction which is included in the price. 
 

Extra Options

Hot Air Balloon Safari
Unavailable as of June 29, 2025

$400.00
Deposit: $200.00

Experience Pilanesberg from an elevated view. From the air, spot herds of antelope, buffalo and elephant. This tour requires an early morning departure. 

The hot air balloon safaris include:

  • One hour flight over the reserve
  • Sparkling wine after landing
  • Full English breakfast
  • First flight certificate
  • Transfer to your hotel
 

Cape Town Treasures
Unavailable as of May 15, 2025

$98.00
Deposit: $25.00

Private Half Day tour to discover Cape Town's treasures. While you enjoy the breathtaking scenery of Maiden Cove, Table Mountain, Bo-Kaap, Chapman's Peak,  and the Boulders Penguin Colony. 

Group Air from ATL or JFK (New York City) - Deposit Only
Unavailable as of December 31, 2024

$0.00
Deposit: $200.00

Roundtrip - Economy Class

Estimated at $2528 | 1 Checked and 1 Carry-on Baggage Included

The Travel Curio is pleased to offer an option that provides stress-free logistical air assistance. This will ensure a smooth transition from the US and within South Africa. Pricing will be communicated 10 months prior to departure. You will have two business days to decide if you would like to accept the group air. If you decline, the airfare deposit will be returned to you. 

DEPOSIT: $200

Balance due 120 days prior to August 1.

Benefits  from our access to exclusive travel plans providing low deposits and pay as you go options. Upon booking, select the multi-city air transportation option. The best part is that you will have the opportunity to get to know the other TC Cousins in the air!

 

Limited Spaces Available!
Don't miss this chance to join our optional group air. Secure your seat now!

Travel Protection Insurance
Unavailable as of February 1, 2025

$0.00

The Travel Curio requires travel insurance of it's clients.  Protect your investment in this experience plus you have the ability to add the cost of airfare and transfers. 
 
Options will be provided via email through a separate invoice.  MUST PURCHASE WITHIN 10 DAYS OF DEPOSIT for most policies which included cancel for any reason (CFAR) or sign a waiver. A second payment will not be applied if this option is not selected. 
 
Please note I am not licensed to make travel protection insurance recommendations.