South Africa Vacation
September 3rd - 15th, 2025
10-nights with 1 night in Johannesburg, a 3-night safari,
6-nights in Cape Town, most meals and all tours listed
Just $3,250 - Land only - see group air below

This is a repeat of our trip from 2017 which was an amazing trip. It will include 1-night in Johannesburg, a 3-night safari in the Pilanesberg National Park where we'll go on 2 safari's each day with a chance to see the big five and then 6-nights in Cape Town, plus all the tours that you see here.

Itinerary:

September 4th

Arrival in Johannesburg

Welcome to South Africa! We land in Johannesburg at 5:45 pm and settle in for a well-deserved rest.

September 5th

Johannesburg to Bakubung Bush Lodge, B,L,D

This morning we will head off in the direction of our safari lodge located in Pilanesberg National Park. In route we will take a tour of the Cradle of Humankind, one of eight World Heritage Sites in South Africa, and the only one in Gauteng, is renowned as the place where humankind originated. It is here that the first hominid, Australopithecus, was found in 1924 at Taung in the North West Province by Professor Raymond Dart of the University of the Witwatersrand. And is one of the major tourist attractions in South Africa.

The Cradle of Humankind area boasts 13 excavation sites that are recognised as national heritage sites, both internationally and by the South African Heritage Resources Agency. For those wanting to experience the birthplace of humankind first-hand, the official visitor centres for the Cradle of Humankind, Maropeng and the Sterkfontein Caves.

See fossils, learn about how humankind was born, view stone tools that are up to one million years old, and much more. This self-guided, interactive tour allows you to take all the time you need to ponder humanity’s fascinating origin story.

We will then arrive at the Lodge in time for lunch and an afternoon safari. Located in the Pilanesberg National Park, on the slopes of a 2-billion-year-old volcano, is home to Africa’s big five. We will get there in time to enjoy a late afternoon game drive and then enjoy dinner in our wonderful restaurant.

September 6th

Bakubung Lodge   B,L,D

Bakubung Bush Lodge: Less than a two-hour drive from Johannesburg and situated right at the entrance to the malaria-free, Big-5 Pilanesberg National Park, lies one of the most unforgettable bush getaways in South Africa. Bakubung Bush Lodge, fondly translated as “Place of the Hippo”, is an ideal destination for both families and MICE groups alike.

We will enjoy 2 game drives each day. Game drives feature regular encounters with lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and black and white rhino as well as many other fascinating animals. Guided bush walks give you insights into the subtleties of the bushveld.

September 7th

Bakubung Lodge   B,L,D

Another day of game drives and chances to see the Big Five!

 

 

 

 

 

 

September 8th

Bakubung/ Cape Town B, L

We will enjoy one more morning safari and then depart for the Johannesburg airport and our flight to Cape Town.

 

 

 

 

September 9th

Half Day Cape Town City & Table Mountain Tour   B
A trip up Table Mountain is quite rightly one of the first things a tourist wants to do when arriving in Cape Town. Once on the top, a 1000m above the city below, you are rewarded with spectacular 360 views. Take your time and enjoy this unique environment, go for a walk or have a bit to eat at the restaurant with arguably one of the best views possible.


COMPANY'S GARDEN
The Company's Garden, located in Cape Town, is a tranquil oasis in the heart of the city. This historic garden dates back to the 17th century and was originally established as a refreshment station by the Dutch East India Company. Today, it is a popular public park that offers a serene escape from the bustling city streets. The garden features lush lawns, beautiful flower beds, and majestic trees, providing a peaceful setting for leisurely strolls and picnics.It is also home to several notable landmarks, including the South African Museum, the Planetarium, and the famous Delville Wood Memorial Garden.

DISTRICT 6 MUSEUM
The District 6 Museum in Cape Town is a poignant testament to the forced removals and apartheid policies that impacted the vibrant District 6 community during Apartheid. Housed in a former church, the museum tells the story of the neighbourhood's history, culture, and the devastating impact of segregation. Through interactive exhibits, personal testimonies, and preserved artefacts, visitors gain insight into the resilience of the community and the ongoing struggles for social justice


CASTLE OF GOOD HOPE
The Castle of Good Hope in Cape Town is a star-shaped fort built in the 17th century by the Dutch East India Company and is South Africa's oldest surviving colonial building. The castle's bastions and imposing architecture reflect its strategic military significance in the past. Today, it serves as a museum, offering visitors a glimpse into Cape Town's colonial history. Inside, one can explore the chambers and learn about the castle's role in shaping the city's development.

 

September 10th

Full Day Cape Winelands Tour    B, L

PRIVATE FULL DAY WINELANDS TOUR, BOSCHENDAL WINE TASTING, WITH LUNCH AT THE WERF RESTAURANT
The iconic Boschendal Farm Estate was founded in 1685 and is one of the oldest farms in South Africa. Wine tasting is offered daily at the Cellar Door Wine Tasting Centre from 09h00 to 16h30. Several multi-award winning and limited release vintages are offered by the experienced hosts as visitors are guided through various tastings. A popular product is the chocolate wine on offer. Handmade souvenirs and wine are also for sale in the wine tasting room.

SPIER WINE TASTING
Our tasting room on the banks of the Spier dam has beautiful views of the Helderberg Mountains. Here you can sample Spier's award-winning wines paired with tasty snacks.

 

September 11th

Full Day Cape Point & Peninsula Tour    B, L

PRIVATE FULL DAY PENINSULA TOUR, INCLUDING LUNCH
CAPE OF GOOD HOPE

Cape Point is a spectacular sight, covered in endemic fynbos and home to breathtaking bays, beaches and rolling green hills and valleys, just 60km outside of Cape Town. Cape Point falls within the Cape Floral Region, a World Heritage Site. The Cape Floral Region is one of the richest areas for plants in the world – it is home to nearly 20% of Africa’s flora. Cape Point is open daily and is a must-see.

 

BOULDERS PENGUIN COLONY
Boulders Penguin Colony is located near Cape Town, South Africa. This popular tourist attraction offers visitors the chance to observe African penguins at close range and learn more about them. The section also includes three boardwalks that provide easy access to the beach area, and sheltered areas for viewing the birds.

FLYING DUTCHMAN FUNICULAR
The Flying Dutchman funicular takes visitors at Cape Point up to the lighthouse, where there is an outstanding view of the point and ocean. The funicular is named after a ghost ship whose destiny it is to sail the oceans forever. More information can be found at the museum.

September 12th


Visit of Robben Island  B

Today we will take a boat and enjoy a tour of Robben Island. Robben Island is famous, or rather infamous, as the holding place for the imprisoned Nelson Mandela. Mandela served 18 of his 27 years in prison incarcerated on the island's prison, but Robben Island has also housed a hospital, mental institution, leper colony and military base during its rich history. Now, Robben Island is a World Heritage Site and museum, offering daily tours.

The tour begins at the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront with a multimedia exhibition, museum shop and restaurant, after which, guests hop onto the ferry for a scenic trip to the island. Once on Robben Island itself, the tour is guided by a former political prisoner of the island, for unique and incomparable insights into the island's history.


 

September 13th


Free Day Cape Town   B

Today is a free day. We purposely did not want to include every tour on this trip to give you a variety of choices. We will have more information on our suggested options as we get closer to the trip. You can take a canopy zip line, go to the Cheetah Outreach Center, or even do a shark cage trip!

September 14th

We have most of the day today for any other tour you might have in mind. Our flight is at 8:00 pm so we will be leaving about 5:00 pm.

SoWeTo / Home  B

A fond farewell… We wish you a fond farewell as you are collected from your hotel and transferred to Cape Town International Airport for your homeward flight…

So there it is. A wonderful itinerary without any long layovers!  Plus there are no visa's required!  Cost of this trip is just $3,250, a great group rate with the safari, 4-star hotels, all tours and most meals!

$200 DEPOSIT TO SIGN UP

SINGLE SUPPLEMENT (your own room only if you prefer): $965

GROUP AIR: Please let us know if you would like to be included in our group air. We'd like to point out that our return is on Monday the 15th.

Flight: United Airlines 2127 Departure's Angeles Intl 03SEP/1015A Arrival: Newark Liberty 03SEP/646P
Flight: United Airlines 188 Departure: Newark Liberty 03SEP/850P Arrival: Johannesburg 04SEP/545P

Flight: United Airlines 2023 Departure: Cape Town 14SEP/800P Arrival: Washington Dulles 15SEP/550A
Flight: United Airlines 1734 Departure: Washington Dulles 15SEP/819A Arrival's Angeles Intl 15SEP/1043A

The base fare is $798.00, plus taxes, which are $727.51.This totals to $1525.51 (*Total Fare Estimate per seat with taxes and fees at time of booking*). Please note that taxes and fees are subject to change until final payment is collected.


INCLUDED:INCLUSIONS

  • All accommodation mentioned
  • Meet & Greets at OR Tambo International Airport and Cape Town International Airport
  • Domestic air from Johannesburg to Cape Town
  • .Meals and drinks as specified
  • Sakhumzi Restaurant
  • The Werf Restaurant
  • Two Oceans Restaurant
  • Coach Transfers based on 32x Seater, with English Speaking Guide on transfers and guided tours.
  • Activities as specified
  • All entrances mentioned
  • Table Mountain Tickets (Fast Track Tickets included)
  • 2x Wine tasting and one cellar tour

DOES NOT INCLUDE:

  • Tips for guides and drivers

Janet Bergland will be our tour director.

She's been an SIP traveler for over 20 years

and recently was our tour director on our Vietnam and Cambodia trip.

You will love her!

 

 

 

OUR HOTELS

Johannesburg

Southern Sun Hotel - 4-star

Website - Tripadvisor review

The stylish, comfortable Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport hotel is conveniently located directly adjacent to Johannesburg’s International Airport. A number of Johannesburg’s most important business facilities, commercial hubs, shopping centres and restaurants are found nearby.

The hotel’s 366 en-suite rooms are tastefully furnished, with a wide range of amenities, including free WiFi, flat screen with DStv, air conditioning and other in-room comforts and amenities. In addition, guests enjoy the convenience of a porter service and a wake-up call facility. For relaxation guests can make use of the outdoor pool, while Caroline’s Day Spa offers a range of exclusive beauty and health treatments.

Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport hotel offers guests a complimentary return shuttle service from the airport to the hotel, as well as a bus service to the nearby Rhodesfield station - part of the Gautrain high-speed rapid rail transit system.

Bernoulli’s Restaurant offers a choice of Mediterranean-themed dishes that are centered around grills, pastas, line fish, and fresh produce.

Our Johannesburg airport hotel ensures convenience and comfort whether you are just passing through to your next destination or Johannesburg is your final stop. We look forward to welcoming you to Southern Sun O.R. Tambo International Airport.

 

Bakubung Bush Lodge ****

Website     Tripadvisor

Less than a two-hour drive from Johannesburg and situated right at the entrance to the malaria-free, Big-5 Pilanesberg National Park, lies one of the most unforgettable bush getaways in South Africa. Bakubung Bush Lodge, fondly translated as “Place of the Hippo”, is an ideal destination for both families and MICE groups alike.

A variety of facilities and activities are available to keep everyone entertained including walking safaris, game drives, boma dinners, quad biking, world-class treatments at the Legacy Balance spa, as well as the ever-popular snake demos, archery lessons and Junior Rangers programme for kids.

Accommodation options range from spacious (dinner, bed and breakfast) hotel rooms and self-catering chalets, to luxurious villas, for those looking for a more exclusive retreat. Whatever your preference, business or leisure, Bakubung is the ideal destination for everyone.

Cape Town

Southern Sun Waterfront Hotel ****

Website     Tripadvisor review 

Wonderful sunsets over the Atlantic Ocean assist in making the Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town a preferred business and holiday destination. A mere 15 minutes’ drive from Cape Town International Airport, and within walking distance to the V&A Waterfront, this hotel is superbly located to offer every guest easy access to the sights and sounds of Cape Town.

Breathtaking views of Table Mountain can be enjoyed from rooms that offer all the quality and comfort you would expect from a full service hotel. Offering guests a fitness centre, a pool and convenient meeting rooms and a business centre, the Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town caters for all possible business or leisure traveler needs.

 

 


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