Southern Africa Safari by River & Rail, 13 Days Johannesburg Return with A&K

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An African Safari like None Other

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Start this unique journey atop Table Mountain where the views of Cape Town are breathtaking. Admire white sandy beaches lapped by the waters of the Atlantic and head south to where two oceans meet at Cape Point. An artisan encounter reveals the craft culture of the country before you board Rovos Rail for a luxury rail journey from winelands to waterfalls. Marvel at the “smoke that thunders" before a river safari on the Chobe River aboard a boutique floating hotel. The Okavango Delta provides the grand finale to your safari where lodgings are at the outstanding Sanctuary Chief’s Camp where safari chic is elevated to a new level and wildlife sightings are second to none.

 

Highlights

  • From cosmopolitan Cape Town to thundering Victoria Falls to the extraordinary Okavango Delta, experience the best of Southern Africa in one unique and spectacular journey
  • Embark on a three-night stay along the banks of the Chobe River aboard the graceful ‘Zambezi Queen’
  • Traverse majestic mountain ranges and grassy savannah on a two-day train journey by elegant, timeless Rovos Rail
  • Stand atop Table Mountain overlooking the Twelve Apostles range, tour the spectacular Cape of Good Hope and see the African penguin colony on Boulders Beach
  • Enjoy a privately guided tour of Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World
  • End your journey as few others do, at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp — one of the region’s finest — located in Okavango Delta’s Moremi Game Reserve, predator capital of Africa
 

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrive Cape Town, South Africa.

Arrive in Cape Town, the metropolitan light of South Africa, where you transfer to one of the country’s most famous hotels, set in the heart of the city.
Accommodation: Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

 

Day 2

Cape Town | Look to the Beacon of Hope.

Explore this magnificent harbor city, starting with a scenic drive to flat-topped Table Mountain, where you reach the summit via cable car (weather permitting). Take in the panorama of southern seas and sun-drenched city as well as the impressive cliffs of the Twelve Apostles brooding high above the ragged shore. History follows with a drive through old Cape Town, past Groote Kerk (South Africa’s oldest church), City Hall and the Grand Parade. Continue with a drive past the Company Gardens with views of the Houses of Parliament and National Art Gallery. When available, stop for an artisan visit at Streetwires, where locals come together to craft handmade bead art. Visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden to explore five of Africa’s six biomes (distinctive ecological regions) with a private local guide. Tonight, enjoy a celebratory welcome dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

 

Day 3

Cape Town | Thrilling Coast Beyond the City.

Journey along the Atlantic coast, past the “bikini beaches,” through the charming harbor of Hout Bay and over historic Chapman’s Peak Drive. Reach the tip of the continent at the Cape of Good Hope, a richly diverse, 22,000-acre nature reserve that juts into the sea. Ride the “Flying Dutchman” funicular to the great pinnacle at Cape Point, offering views of Southern right whales from July through November. Spot Cape mountain zebras and possibly the rare bontebok en route to Boulders Beach, where you view endangered African penguins. Pass through Simon’s Town with its English seaside feel; False Bay with its brightly painted boats; and Constantia, South Africa’s legendary wine country. Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

 

Days 4–5

Riding the Rovos Rail | Winelands to Grasslands.

Recapture the romance of a bygone era as you board the wood-panelled coaches of the luxurious Rovos Rail. Depart Cape Town Station as you settle into your suite featuring a sitting area, an en suite bathroom, and the perfect blend of period ambience and modern amenities. Wind through mountains, rolling green hills and the Cape Winelands before stopping to visit Matjiesfontein, an authentically preserved Victorian village. Sip South African vintages in handsome dining cars serving up artful menus as the stunning scenery scrolls by. The next day, gain another perspective from the Observation Car at the rear of the train. In Kimberley, tour the Diamond Mine Museum and take the opportunity to see one of the world’s largest hand-dug excavation sites. Continue through the hauntingly barren Great Karoo and the grasslands of gold-rich Highveld, marvelling at the changing landscapes.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Rovos Rail

 

Day 6

Johannesburg | Heart of South Africa.

After breakfast and some time to relax, taking in views of the gold fields of Witwatersrand, arrive at Pretoria Station. Transfer to your hotel in the suburbs of Johannesburg, where you enjoy lunch before an afternoon at leisure. Rest and relax or enjoy the amenities of your accommodations.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch
Accommodation: Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa

 

Day 7

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe | The Mighty Zambezi.

Fly to Victoria Falls, where you transfer to your historic hotel. After settling in, join your guide for a private walking tour on the Zimbabwean side of Victoria Falls, known locally as Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”). Watch as the mile-wide Upper Zambezi plunges over 300 feet into the Lower Zambezi, making rainbows form and fade in the mist. This evening, before dinner, enjoy hearing from a special guest speaker who shares tales of celebrated Scottish explorer and missionary David Livingstone — considered the first European to sight the falls, later naming them for England’s queen — on an A&K-exclusive experience.
Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
Accommodation: The Victoria Falls Hotel

 

Day 8

Along the Chobe River, Namibia | Design Your Day.

This morning, enjoy one of these Design Your Day activities.

  • Cruise the Zambezi River, watching the mist of the falls in the distance and spotting hippos, crocodiles and birds.
  • Visit a Rural Village for an interactive experience that offers insight into the traditions of the Zimbabwean people.
  • Privately Tour the Ndau Collection Studio to meet the artisans who design their opulent jewellery.

Later, relax on a drive to Kasane, where you pass through Namibian customs before boarding five-star ‘Zambezi Queen.’ Enjoy the sunset river views on this elegant, uniquely African vessel while sipping cocktails, nibbling light snacks and watching wildlife come to the river’s edge to drink. On board tonight, enjoy a beautiful dinner prepared by the resident chef.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: ‘Zambezi Queen’

 

Days 9–10

Along the Chobe River | Chobe National Park.

Discover the wildlife-rich Chobe plain, which boasts buffalo, lions, giraffes and hippos, as well as Africa’s highest concentration of elephants. Experience the region as you wish by choosing a morning and afternoon activity: opt to tour a local Namibian village, fish on the Chobe River or embark on a river safari aboard a small boat. The next day, set off on a morning game drive in Chobe National Park. Following lunch and time to unwind aboard ‘Zambezi Queen,’ you again have the choice to fish or embark on a river safari, both from aboard a smaller boat for more intimate views of the river. This evening, from the decks of ‘Zambezi Queen,’ watch baboons, buffalo and familial herds of elephants come to the river to drink, while hippos begin their nightly graze.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: ‘Zambezi Queen’

 

Day 11

Okavango Delta, Botswana | Predator Capital.

After breakfast, disembark ‘Zambezi Queen’ and fly to the Okavango Delta via Kasane Airport. Arrive at Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, in the Mombo Concession of the vast Moremi Game Reserve. This area is considered the “Predator Capital of the World” and is home to the Big Five. It offers Botswana’s most exciting game viewing, with a lush delta that draws a remarkable concentration of birds and wildlife. The rest of your day is at leisure.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Sanctuary Chief’s Camp

 

Day 12

Okavango Delta | Game Drives and the Big Five.

Rise early for a game drive on the reserve, where the game viewing is magnificent. Large concentrations of elephants, buffalo and impalas as well as lions and other predators call the Okavango home. Activities include a seasonal mokoro ride on the delta and a Chef’s Table experience offering you a taste of traditional local cuisine. This afternoon, learn more about the Rhino Conservation Program, a bold initiative supported by A&K Philanthropy and Sanctuary Retreats in partnership with the Botswana Defence Force and other local organizations, which has to-date relocated 20 rare and endangered rhinos from South Africa to Moremi Reserve to protect them from poachers. Then, set out on your afternoon safari. Tonight, celebrate with a special farewell dinner.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Accommodation: Sanctuary Chief’s Camp

 

Day 13

Depart Johannesburg, South Africa.

Fly to Johannesburg via Maun, where you connect with your international flight home. Compliments of A&K, enjoy access to the Premier Lounge before your departure.
Meals Included: Breakfast

 


Journey Details

  • Minimum age is 10 years.
  • Each guest on this journey will receive an A&K Safari Duffel.
  • First group event: welcome briefing at 8:00 a.m. on Day 2.
  • Last group event: airport arrival at 3:30 p.m. on Day 13.
  • Departures are guaranteed to operate with a minimum of 2 guests.
  • Table Mountain closes annually mid-July to mid-August. Alternate touring will be provided for affected departures.
 

 

Ask one of our Travel Specialists about Packaging Flights with your Tour and Save

Additional dates and rates may be available, please speak to one of our Travel Specialists for more information. 

Single Supplement rates are available on request.

*Rates are subject to availability and seasonality and may change without notice. Rates are based on two adults sharing. For solo travellers or single person occupancy rates or further information on terms and conditions, please contact our Travel Specialists at time of booking.

Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, Cape Town

An oasis of calm at the foot of Table Mountain, Belmond Mount Nelson is a unique hideaway within the vibrant heart of Cape Town. Painted pink for peace in 1918, the hotel has become an icon and exudes the magic of a bygone era with exquisitely restored interiors and quirky modern touches.

Each of the 57 suites and 144 spacious bedrooms are individually furnished and four cottages in Sydenham Terrace have been meticulously restored for increased seclusion and are set in private gardens with a swimming pool.

Dining is a delight with seasonal specialities on offer at the Lord Nelson Restaurant. Afternoon tea is a spread of tempting tastes and treats and lighter fare is delivered at the poolside Oasis Bistro. The stylish and lively Planet Bar offers an impressive selection of wine, champagne and cocktails.

For those wishing to explore, complimentary transfers are available within a 10km radius of the hotel. Labrisa Spa offers eight treatment rooms of which four are double and perfect for romantic relaxation treatments. The floodlit tennis courts and two heated swimming pools are set against the mighty backdrop of Table Mountain.

 

Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail’s elegant features evoke the spirit of a bygone era and just 72 guests are treated to this unforgettable African rail experience. The Deluxe Suites are cosy and stylishly decorated with wood panelling and polished timber finishes, each with en suite bathroom. Meals are a highlight with an emphasis on fresh local ingredients and traditional dishes with a selection of fine South African wines.

 

Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa

Once a private home, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa is a delightful grand retreat away from the busy city. The atmosphere is designed to be elegant with the Terrace restaurant set with candlelit tables. Beautiful linen, crockery and silver cutlery are an integral part of the refined experience at this hotel. We love the hotel’s latest addition – the Muse Champagne Room by Perrier-Jouët and adjoining Courtyard are the perfect place to retreat and enjoy a sundowner.

Each opulent suite is spacious and individually decorated with a working fireplace, internet access, under floor heating and air conditioning. The large en-suite bathrooms boast a jacuzzi bath with a separate shower. Lounges can be fully separated from bedroom area. All of the suites overlook the beautiful landscaped gardens.

 

Victoria Falls Hotel

Established in 1904, The Victoria Falls Hotel is set in The Victoria Falls National Park and has provided the base for statesmen, royals, authors and celebrities. Suites and rooms are superbly furnished in an Edwardian-style that recaptures the comfortable charm of a bygone age, with colonial prints, four-poster and canopied beds, antique furniture and well-chosen artefacts. The rooms may be compact in size so we recommend a suite if space is your preference.

The elegant lounges offer serenity and seclusion whilst corridors reflect all the past glories of the Empire. Enjoy the grandeur of the building, the history and charm. The courtyard entrance overlooks lily ponds, lush flowering shrubs and palm trees. Victoria Falls are a 20 minute walk through the gardens.

 

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp, Moremi Game Reserve

Sanctuary Chief’s Camp sits silent among the glassy waters of the seasonal flood waters. Sited in the exclusive Mombo concession of the Moremi Game Reserve, this camp has been seamlessly integrated into the environment of winding waterways, reedbeds, mopane woodlands and seasonal lagoons. The area’s game is outstanding: lion are frequently seen and the area is one of the few places in Botswana offering a ‘Big Five’ experience. Access to Sanctuary Chief’s Camp is by light aircraft, using the private landing strip just 15 minutes’ drive away. The swimming pool is perfect to escape from the heat of the day. Sanctuary Chief’s Camp also has a small library. Through the day expeditions with expert guides allow an up-close and personal bush experience, and when the floodwaters arrive from the north, mokoros come into their own, gliding silently along labyrinthine waterways (subject to water levels). More conventional, game-drives provide a succession of outstanding photographic opportunities, getting quietly close to unexpected sights of nature’s drama in one of the most beautiful places in the world.

The twelve luxury bush pavilions, all set on wooden platforms are spacious offering 141sq metres of living indoor and outdoor space. The features of the pavilions include a private dining area, Nespresso machine, outside seating area, plunge pool, air conditioning and fan and Wi-Fi. The luxury bathrooms feature a spacious outdoor shower, a large bath tub and floor to ceiling windows that look out to the wilderness of the Okavango Delta.

 

Zambezi Queen, Chobe National Park

The Zambezi Queen is comprised of 14 Suites, 4 of which are Master Suites, sliding mosquito net doors and the finest finishes complete this cocoon of creature comforts amidst the wild and untamed Africa. Sit back and relax in the air-conditioned lounge, which offers a comprehensive library of books on the surrounding area and a DVD player with wildlife documentaries. The dining area is located alongside an open-plan lounge with a wood-burning fireplace. Make sure to use the astronomical telescope situated on the fore deck to explore the African night-time sky. The stylish bar is stocked with the finest wines and spirits and affords magnificent views for a relaxing evening. All areas are protected by mosquito screens which allow for a comfortable and pleasant environment for relaxing, wining and dining.

Indulge in the wonderful Zambezi dining experience with specially imported South African wines, all of which are expertly paired with gourmet meals prepared by on-board skilled chefs. Complimentary drinks are provided with all activities both land and boat based. You can take part in Tiger and Bream fishing when in season and bird watching from smaller boats. Land-based activities available include a cultural tour of a delightful local village.

Departing on Mondays Wednesdays or Fridays, choose from a two or three night stay on the Zambezi Queen sailing along the Chobe River, this includes collection from Botswana immigration at Kasane on the banks of Chobe River, or Impilila airstrip on the Namibian side (special arrangements can be made for other land transfer requirements).

 
 

Call a Luxury Tour Specialist on 1300 308 081 and Quote #25348

(During Business Hours)