South African Programme

SOUTH AFRICAN PROGRAMME

09 DAYS / 08 NIGHTS

Date: Description:

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, Johannesburg and connection with domestic flight to Cape Town or direct arrival at Cape Town International Airport (depending on airline).

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Transfer to the hotel in luxury transport with air conditioning.

Day 1: Time TBC (depending on flight details) Arrival at The Portswood Hotel ARRIVAL–CAPE and check in. Free time to rest after the flight. TOWN Lunch and Dinner at leisure under own arrangements.

We recommend dinner at the hotel or one of the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Restaurants - "Belthazar Restaurant"; "Sevruga Restaurant"; “Harbor House Restaurant”; “Meloncino Restaurant” or "Baia Seafood Restaurant".

Overnight at the hotel: The Portswood Hotel 4*

07.00 – 09.00 Breakfast at the hotel.

09.00 Half day Cape Town City and The Table Mountain (weather permitting) Tour in luxury transport with air conditioning with English speaking guide onboard.

Cape Town is considered one of the most beautiful cities in the world. If weather permits, you will ascent by cable car to the top of the Table Mountain (1086 m. above sea level), which was officially recognized by

UNESCO as one of the "7 Natural Wonders of the World" and Signal Hill. You will enjoy breathtaking, fantastic views of the Atlantic coast and the giant port city, surrounded by mountain ranges and forests. Then, coming down to the city, you will visit the fort the first settlers - the Castle of Good Hope and History Museum at the Castle, walk the famous gardens of the Dutch East Indian Company, where you can hand-feed the tame squirrels, see the building of the South African Parliament, a

historic hotel "Mount Nelson" (which preserves the memory of almost the all the great people from the UK and other countries around the world, who has ever visited South Africa), Malay Quarter: Bo-Kaap, with its colorful houses, famous Adderley Street and the Strand, University of Day 2: CAPE Cape Town, the memorial of Cecil John Rhodes, famous clinic Groote TOWN Schuur, where Dr. Christiaan Barnard performed the first-ever successful human heart transplant operation in 1967.

13.00 Return to the hotel. Lunch at leisure under own arrangements.

In the afternoon, we recommend optional visit to one of the best marine aquariums in the Southern Hemisphere "Two Oceans" (open until 17:00 entrance fee under own arrangement), and then to explore the famous Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, located on the site of the old Commercial Port of Cape Town. This is one of the most famous South African tourist centers, with its fashionable restaurants, luxury shops and various entertainment facilities, is in perfect harmony with its natural background - grand panorama of Table Mountain, and old port and the harbor are still used and filled with yachts under colorful sails.

Dinner at leisure under own arrangements.

Overnight at the hotel: The Portswood Hotel 4*

07.00 – 09.00 Breakfast at the hotel.

09.00 Full day Cape Peninsula and Cape of Good Hope Tour in luxury transport with air conditioning with English speaking guide onboard.

You will travel along popular urban oceanfront "Promenade" on the highway cut through a mountain slopes, steeply down to the Atlantic. Then along the rocky coast and sandy beaches of indescribably beautiful Clifton and Camps Bay. Tourist guides describe them as "the most

beautiful coastal areas of the world". From the fishing port of Hout Bay, you will make a 45 min. scheduled boat excursion to the island colony of sea lions (Cape Fur Seals). After this you will travel to the Cape Point National Park, where you will see monuments, commemorating Bartholomew Dias and Vasco Da Gama - the Portuguese discoverers of these places and the actual Cape of Storms (later renamed by the King of Day 3: CAPE Portugal to the Cape of Good Hope). You will ascend by cable car to the TOWN famous lighthouse "with a view on Antarctica ". When you will reach the top point by the lighthouse, you will see a 200-meter vertical wall breaking off into the ocean, where you will be probably shocked by grandiose picture that opens under you: turquoise waves of the South Atlantic lapping there on the black stones and breaking against them,

creating a frenzied flow of snow-white foam. Then you will visit a geographical point, "Cape of Good Hope" with a sign board indicating the latitude and longitude of the Cape - this place is considered to be the most photographed point of the Southern Hemisphere.

13.00 Lunch at leisure under own arrangements.

Return to the hotel. Dinner at leisure under own arrangements.

Overnight at the hotel: The Portswood Hotel 4*

07.00 – 09.00 Breakfast at the hotel.

09.00 Full day Cape Winelands Tour in luxury transport with air conditioning with English speaking guide onboard.

You will visit South African wine making center, historical and picturesque town of Stellenbosch, named after the first Dutch Cape Colony’s Governor, Simon Van Der Stel – first settlement, which received town status in South Africa and also later became a major University center. Next you will visit Franschhoek (French Corner), where first Huguenots, fleeing from religious persecution in France, settled in 1687, bringing culture of commercial wine making with them to South Africa. You will be offered 2 wine tastings in two different wine estate, as well as wine cellar Day 4: CAPE tour during which you will learn about wine making process. You will be TOWN offered unique opportunity to purchase magnificent wines, many of which were awarded multiple prestigious international prizes, directly from manufacturer.

13.00 Lunch at leisure under own arrangements.

Return to the hotel. Dinner at leisure under own arrangements.

Overnight at the hotel: The Portswood Hotel 4*

07.00 – 10.30 Breakfast at the hotel.

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Bag pull and check out (latest check out time 11.00)

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Transfer to Cape Town

International Airport in luxury transport with air conditioning.

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Scheduled domestic flight Cape Town to Johannesburg.

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Arrival at O.R. Tambo

International Airport, Johannesburg and road transfer in luxury transport with air conditioning to Pilanesberg National Park (approx. 2.5 hours DAY 5: CAPE drive) TOWN– PILANESBERG Time TBC (depending on flight details) Arrival at Kwa Maritane Bush NATIONAL PARK Lodge or Bakubung Bush Lodge and check in. Free time to rest after the flight.

Lunch at leisure at the Lodge under own arrangements.

Time at leisure.

16.00 Afternoon / evening safari drive in Pilanesberg National Park with English speaking safari ranger, in open game viewing vehicle in search of African “Big Five” (Lion; Elephant; Rhino; Buffalo and Leopard). Return to the Lodge for dinner.

Overnight at the safari lodge: Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge or Bakubung Bush Lodge 4*.

05.00 Early wake up. Tea and Coffee and cookies will be served in reception area.

05.30 Early morning safari drive in Pilanesberg National Park with English speaking safari ranger, in open game viewing vehicle in search of African “Big Five” (Lion; Elephant; Rhino; Buffalo and Leopard). Return to the Lodge for breakfast.

Time at leisure. DAY 6: PILANESBERG Lunch at leisure in at the Lodge under own arrangements. NATIONAL PARK Time at leisure.

Overnight at the safari lodge: Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge or Bakubung Bush Lodge 4*.

05.00 Early wake up. Tea and Coffee and cookies will be served in reception area.

05.30 Early morning safari drive in Pilanesberg National Park with English speaking safari ranger, in open game viewing vehicle in search of DAY 7: African “Big Five” (Lion; Elephant; Rhino; Buffalo and Leopard). Return to PILANESBERG the Lodge for breakfast. NATIONAL PARK -JOHANNESBURG 10.30 Bag pull and check out.

11.00 Road transfer to Johannesburg in luxury transport with air conditioning (approx. 2.5 hours drive).

12.30 Arrival at Da Vinci Hotel and check in.

Lunch at leisure under own arrangements.

In the afternoon, we recommend visiting Nelson Mandela Square and Sandton City Shopping Mall, situated in short walking distance from the hotel within vibrant business district of Sandton.

Afternoon at leisure.

Overnight at the hotel: Da Vinci Hotel 4*

07.00 – 10.00 Breakfast at the hotel.

10.00 Full day Lesedi Cultural Village; Lion Park and Crocodile Farm Tour in luxury transport with air conditioning with English speaking guide onboard.

You will tour Lesedi Cultural Village, representing 5 biggest African Tribes of South Africa – Zulu; Khoza; Basotho; Pedi and Ndebele. After video presentation, you will visit five villages, where you will learn about local culture, history and traditions. After this, you will be entertained by Tribal Singing and Dancing show and enjoy traditional lunch.

Buffet menu lunch at Nyama Choma Restaurant (included). DAY 8: JOHANNESBURG After lunch you will visit Lion Park, where you will drive through lion prides; African Wild Dogs and Cheetah enclosures, interact and take pictures with lion cubs, hand feed tame giraffe and ostriches. Next you will visit “Croc City” crocodile farm, where you will see different age and size Nile Crocodiles, take pictures with variety of reptiles like non- venomous snakes; baby crocodile and lizards.

Return to the hotel. Dinner at leisure under own arrangements.

We recommend dinner at one of the Nelson Mandela Square or Sandton City Restaurants - "Maximillien Restaurant"; "Pigalle Restaurant"; “Butcher’s Shop & Grill Restaurant” or “Montego Bay Restaurant”.

Overnight at the hotel: Da Vinci Hotel 4*

07.00 – 10.30 Breakfast at the hotel.

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Bag pull and check out (latest check out time 11.00)

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Transfer to O.R. Tambo DAY 9: International Airport, Johannesburg via Johannesburg City Orientation JOHANNESBURG- Tour in luxury transport with air conditioning and English speaking guide DEPARTURE onboard.

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, where you will be met and assisted by Language speaking guide with VAT refund and flight registration procedures.

Time TBC (depending on flight details) Outbound flight.

End of ABC Africa Travel & Tours arrangements.

SOUTH AFRICAN PROGRAMME QUOTE:

Quote is based on 2 PAX travelling, accommodated at standard rooms in 4* Hotels (Legacy Hotels Group special combination rates). DBL / TWIN accommodation with SGL room supplement. Rates are valid until 31.10. 2013.

ACCOMMODATION:

Hotels and Safari Lodges (DBL or TWIN standard room): The Portswood Hotel 4* - ZAR 949.00 per person sharing per night 4 nights = ZAR 3,796.00 (including breakfast daily)

Kwa Maritane or Bakubung Lodge 4* - ZAR 1,846.00 per person sharing per night x 2 nights = ZAR 3,692.00 (including breakfast; dinner and 2 safari drives daily)

Da Vinci Hotel 4* - ZAR 1,138.00 per person sharing per night x 2 nights = ZAR 2,276.00 (including breakfast daily)

Sub-total accommodation: ZAR 9,764.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 19,528.00

Single room supplement: The Portswood Hotel 4* - ZAR 503.00 per room per night Kwa Maritane or Bakubung Lodge 4* - ZAR 988.00 per room per night Da Vinci Hotel 4* - ZAR 665.00 per room per night

GROUND SERVICES:

Transfers (per vehicle): 1. Cape Town International Airport – The Portswood Hotel (one way) – ZAR 410.00 2. The Portswood Hotel - Cape Town International Airport (one way) – ZAR 410.00 3. O.R. Tambo International Airport – Pilanesberg National Park (one way) – ZAR 1,751.00 4. Pilanesberg National Park – Da Vinci Hotel (one way) – ZAR 1,751.00 5. Da Vinci Hotel - O.R. Tambo International Airport via Johannesburg City Orientation Tour (one way) – ZAR 1,197.00

Tours (entrance fees are subject to change without prior notice): 1. Half day Cape Town City and The Table Mountain Tour (per vehicle) – ZAR 1,197.00 Entrance fees (per person x 2 PAX): Castle of Good Hope – ZAR 30.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 60.00 Table Mountain Cable Car – ZAR 215.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 430.00

2. Full day Cape Peninsula and Cape of Good Hope Tour (per vehicle) – ZAR 1,476.00 Entrance fees (per person x 2 PAX): Seal Island scheduled cruise – ZAR 85.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 170.00 Chapman’s Peak toll fee (per vehicle) – ZAR 45.00 Cape Point Nature Reserve – ZAR 95.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 190.00 Cape Point Lighthouse Funicular – ZAR 50.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 100.00 Boulders Beach penguin colony – ZAR 45.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 170.00

3. Full day Cape Winelands Tour (per vehicle) – ZAR 1,476.00 Entrance fees (per person x 2 PAX): 2 x wine tastings + 1 Cellar Tour – ZAR 90.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 180.00

4. Full day Lesedi Cultural Village; Lion Park and Crocodile Farm Tour (per vehicle) – ZAR 1,476.00 Entrance fees (per person x 2 PAX): Lesedi Vilage Cultural experience, incl. lunch at Nyama Choma Restaurant – ZAR 435.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 870.00 Lion Park – ZAR 150.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 300.00 Crocodile Farm – ZAR 65.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 130.00

English speaking guide services (per service): 1. Half day Cape Town City and The Table Mountain Tour – ZAR 1,150.00 2. Full day Cape Peninsula and Cape of Good Hope Tour – ZAR 1,625.00 3. Full day Cape Winelands Tour – ZAR 1,625.00 4. Full day Lesedi Cultural Village; Lion Park and Crocodile Farm Tour – ZAR 1,625.00 5. Da Vinci Hotel - O.R. Tambo International Airport via Johannesburg City Orientation Tour – ZAR 1,150.00

Domestic flights:

Scheduled domestic flight fare Cape Town – Johannesburg (budget carriers Mango or Kulula) : ZAR 1,100.00 x 2 PAX = ZAR 2,200.00, incl. airport taxes and fuel surcharges (estimate – subject to change).

Sub-total ground services: ZAR 23,164.00

GRAND TOTAL (accommodation & ground services): ZAR 42,629.00 / ZAR 21,346.00 per person

USD estimate price (subject to change due to daily exchange rate fluctuations) as per today’s rate of exchange (USD 1.00 = ZAR 8.48) – USD 5,028.00 / USD 2,514.00 per person.

ACCOMMODATION AND ACTIVITIES DESCRIPTIONS:

THE PORTSWOOD HOTEL 4* (CAPE TOWN)

The Portswood Hotel was originally built as part of the historic convict’s station, but today, the Portswood Hotel is the kind of place where you're far more likely to want to extend your stay. With elegance, stunning grounds and beautiful rooms which all offer an air of comfort, charm and luxury, this hotel is truly unique. This hotel is very popular as it ensures one-on-one personal service from check-in to check-out. The attentive staff is always on hand to help and answer any of your questions, as well as ensuring that your stay is comfortable. Located only 22 km from the Cape Town International Airport and close to all of the action, this hotel truly does have a great location, and for business travelers it offers so much more. For the professional traveler, this hotel will provide everything you could possibly need including a boardroom, a business centre and unlimited free Internet access both night and day, from the comfort of your own room. A valet service will ensure that you feel like royalty as you bask in the luxury that this hotel has to offer. On hand is a foreign exchange and medical service in case you need an extra helping hand, so that you never have anything you need to worry about. The sparkling pool as well as the Quarterdeck Restaurant and Cocktail Bar both offer a perfect place to rest and relax. Basking by the blue water or sipping on a fruity cocktail are both amazing ways to spend your time and to truly lull you right into holiday mode, or to help you unwind from a busy working day. With free use of the health and wellness centre next door, this hotel really does have everything covered. For rest and relaxation, for work and for play, the Portswood is the place to be.

KWA MARITANE BUSH LODGE 4* (PILANESBERG)

Capture the spirit of Africa at Kwa Maritane Bush Lodge, where Mother Nature and civilization meet in perfect harmony. Located on the slopes of an ancient volcano, Kwa Maritane offers guests all the amenities of a prime resort on the doorstep of the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park. Indulge yourself with a stay in any one of our 90 luxury rooms. There is a weekend minimum stay of two nights. Enjoy a delicious breakfast, lunch or dinner in the Kwa Maritane Restaurant overlooking the waterhole, The Rock and the magnificent granite formations within the park. You could also choose to sample something from the terrace or in-room dining menus. On Saturday and Wednesday evenings, weather permitting; dine al fresco on traditional South African fare in our Bush Boma.

ALTERNATIVE: BAKUBUNG BUSH LODGE 4* (PILANESBERG)

You’ll discover many amazing things at our lodge. A mere two hour drive from the hustle and bustle of Johannesburg city life, lies a place of breathtaking beauty and serenity - Bakubung Bush Lodge. Concealed in the rich expanses of the malaria-free Pilanesberg National Park, Bakubung, or the Place of the Hippo, has 76 luxury rooms in a beautifully tranquil setting. Here, you can enjoy a number of activities including bush walks, boma braais (BBQ), ‘Big Five’ game viewing and for the children, there’s even an adventure playground. So isn’t it time you enjoyed all the comforts of home, in a place that couldn’t feel further away.

DA VINCI HOTEL 4* (JOHANNESBURG)

The Da Vinci Hotel and Suites, located on Nelson Mandela Square within Legacy Corner, is the Legacy Group's latest addition to their development portfolio and proves to be one of the most luxurious establishments within Johannesburg. A true masterpiece, the Da Vinci offers its guests anything and everything whether their objective is purely that of accommodation or on the other hand, that of an unforgettable lifestyle experience. The Da Vinci is the Legacy Group's fourth hotel on the cosmopolitan square and in the heart of the Sandton business and leisure district. The hotel itself is an embodiment of 21st century opulence and magnificence fused with the decadence and convenience of a world-class shopping experience at the Legacy Corner Mall and Sandton City.

The Da Vinci Hotel offers its guests the following comforts and facilities contributing to the Legacy Lifestyle:

166 en-suite rooms 54 luxury suites Complimentary high speed internet access 24-hour room service Interleading rooms Wheelchair accessible facilities Fully equipped kitchens Full DStv bouquet Endless edge pool with pool terrace Legacy Balance gymnasium

DAVINCI Spa Business Centre Conference Facilities Restaurant and Bar Direct access to Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City and the Sandton Convention Centre, as well as the Michelangelo Towers Mall and Legacy Corner Mall Valet and laundry service available Medical service on call Foreign exchange Legacy Corner Lifestyle and entertainment centre Situated a mere 33km from OR Tambo International Airport

ACTIVITIES:

CAPE TOWN

HALF DAY TABLE MOUNTAIN & CITY TOUR (DEPENDING ON TIME OF ARRIVAL TO CAPE TOWN)

On arrival to Cape Town you will be transferred to The Table Bay Hotel. As an optional “WOW” factor enhancement en-route to the hotel, we suggest surprise stop on Signal Hill for drinks and dry snacks or substantial canapés and welcome performance by Cape Minstrels Band. After check in and lunch at the Conservatory at the Table Bay Hotel, you will depart on a half day Cape Town City and The Table Mountain (weather permitting) Tour:

CAPE TOWN CITY TOUR

Before visiting the Table Mountain, commence the city tour. Drive through the city along Adderley Street past the statues of Jan van Riebeeck and his wife, past the Cultural History Museum and statue of Jan Smuts, onto St George’s Cathedral, up Queen Victoria Street and continue to the Houses of Parliament. A stroll in the Company Gardens can be enjoyed.

After this you will pay a visit to the oldest building in Cape Town, Castle of the Good Hope with the Castle Museum. Depending on the time of your visit you may witness the Castle Change of Guard colorful ceremony. Then travel down Strand Street, and up to the Malay Quarter. Be taken along Dorp Street, the oldest street in the Bo-Kaap. Here the history and culture of the people will be explained. The first house, built in the 16th century, will be pointed out. In passing the very colorful houses of the Cape Malay community, photo opportunities will be enjoyed.

TABLE MOUNTAIN (WEATHER PERMITTING)

Table Mountain is the definitive symbol of Cape Town and is one of the “7 Natural Wonders of the World”. It dominates all photographs of the Mother City and is a part of everyday life even if you never set foot on its hallowed slopes. Not many cities have an easily accessible mountain in such close proximity and this mountain in particular offers a myriad hiking paths and climbing crags. The Cableway offers a quick and scenic ride to the top and in three minutes you can be admiring the Cape Peninsula from its high points. The highest point of Table Mountain is Mac Lear's Beacon at 1,086m above sea level on the eastern side of the front table. Dress warmly for the top and be prepared for different weather conditions to what the rest of Cape Town is experiencing.

FULL DAY CAPE POINT AND PENINSULA TOUR

Travel along magnificent Marine Drive beyond Lion's Head, past the Twelve Apostles, which stretches to Hout Bay, a quaint fishing village on the Atlantic seaboard.

HOUT BAY HARBOUR

Hout Bay Harbour is an active fishing Harbour. Trawlers can be seen off - loading tons of Crayfish as well as Snoek, Tuna and other deep-sea fish. The bay is surrounded by Chapman's Peak, a famous scenic drive built on a base of solid granite rock, and the majestic 331m high Sentinel Mountain. From Hout Bay you will depart on scheduled boat cruise to the Seal Island (colony of Cape Fur Seals).

As an optional “WOW” factor enhancement, we suggest private powerboat speed flip to the Seal Island.

CAPE POINT NATURE RESERVE AND CAPE OF GOOD HOPE

Continue over the magnificent Chapman’s Peak drive offering spectacular views of the Atlantic Ocean and on to Cape Point.

At Cape Point the warm Mozambique current meets the cold Benguela current. The reserve was started in 1936 to preserve the indigenous flora and fauna of the Cape Peninsula. The 7750ha reserve has as many plant varieties as there are in the whole of Britain.

In addition to the predominating Protea and heath varieties there are numerous endangered floras and the fauna includes Eland, Bontebok, Rhebok, Grysbok, Springbok, Baboons, Porcupine, Ostrich and Zebra.

The principal road through the reserve ends near the summit of Cape Point from where a walk or a funicular ride will end at the highest vantage point. From this position the panorama is breathtaking, encompassing the whole of False Bay and the Hottentots Holland Mountains beyond.

By far the most dramatic view, however, is downward, for the vantage point is 209m above the rocks, making a significant impact on all forms of marine life in the vicinity and on the flora of the peninsula. Visit the lighthouse, which has long been one of the worlds’s shipping beacons, marking the turning point between the Atlantic and Indian Oceans.

JACKASS PENGUIN COLONY

After lunch leave the Park and drive to Simon’s Town where guests enjoy a stroll down to the beach to photograph the Penguins. The Jackass Penguin Colony is at Boulders Beach, a short hop away from Simon’s Town.

Continue the journey through Fish Hoek, along Boyes Drive, which offers glorious views of Muizenberg beach, the False Bay coastline and the Hottentots Holland Mountains in the background.

Return to the hotel in the late afternoon.

CAPE WINELANDS TOUR

The Winelands is an area surrounded by vineyards, fruit orchards and mountains renowned for a gracious blend of 18th Century Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture. The tour includes a visit to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek and lunch at a wine estate.

Stellenbosch The Stellenbosch Wine Route is arguably the country’s most famous, and the Stellenbosch Wine of Origin area includes 106 cellars - most of which are open to the public. Enjoy a long day’s wine tasting and wine buying and you’ll sip more than our great South African wines – you’ll taste our South African way of life.

Highlights of this tour are: A visit the historical towns Franschhoek and Stellenbosch, the oldest town in South Africa including a stop at the University of Stellenbosch 2 wine tastings and Cellar Tour Lunch at Moyo Traditional Restaurant at Spier Wine Estate

PILANESBERG

SAFARI DRIVES IN PILANESBERG NATIONAL PARK

The Pilanesberg Game Reserve is located in North West Province in South Africa, west of Pretoria. The park borders with the entertainment complex Sun City. The park is currently administered by the North West Parks and Tourism Board. The area is fringed by three concentric ridges or rings of hills, of which the formation rises from the surrounding plains. Pilanesberg is named after a Tswana chief, Pilane, the 'Pilanesberg Alkaline Ring Complex' is the park's primary geological feature. This vast circular geological feature is ancient even by geological standards as it is the crater of a long extinct volcano and the result of eruptions some 1,2 billion years ago. It is one of the largest volcanic complexes of its type in the world, the rare rock types and formations make it a unique geological feature. A number of rare minerals occur in the park. Pilanesberg Game Reserve rates high amongst the world's outstanding geological phenomena. Scattered throughout the park are various sites that originate from the Iron Age and Stone Age and show the presence of man from those periods in these areas. The park has an area of 572 km² (+/- 56,000 hectares). One can travel through in a standard road vehicle as although most of the 188 kilometres of track are not surfaced, they are well maintained. The three main tarred roads are named Kgabo, Kubu and Tswene. There are several camps serving the park from the outside, such as Bagatla and Manyane. Several lodges are situated within the park itself. For the day visitors there are several stops on the inside where there are bars and gift shops. Towards the centre of the park there is an artificially constructed lake, the Mankwe Dam, and Thabayadiotso, which means "the Proud Mountain".

The scenic terrain lies in the transition zone between Kalahari and Lowveld, and both types of vegetation are found here. As a result of the park being on a transition zone there are overlaps in mammals, birds and vegetation. Today, Pilanesberg Game Reserve accommodates almost every large mammal of southern Africa. The park has a rich array of Southern African wildlife including the Big Five, the five most dangerous game animals in Africa. In the Pilanesberg Game Reserve today live most of the animal species of Southern Africa these include lions, elephants, black and white rhinoceros, African (Cape) buffalos, leopards, cheetahs, zebras, hyenas, giraffes, hippos and crocodiles, variety of antelope species. The Painted Hunting Dog, had been extirpated from the park, but reintroduction efforts have been carried out recently, with uncertain outcome. Over 360 bird species were counted. The Pilanesberg is not in a location which the Big Five animals would naturally inhabit, however they have been brought into the 550 square kilometers of African bush land. The Bird life diversity is excellent with over 360 species having been recorded. Though some are migrants, most others are permanent inhabitants. Their food sources vary with some eating carrion or live prey; others eat seeds, fruit or tiny water organisms.

“BIG FIVE”

Africa is an environment with a diverse fauna and flora that captures the hearts and minds of all who visit this beautiful content. A few animals, however, has been awarded a very special award, the Big Five. The famous Big Five refers to five of Africa's greatest wild animals - the Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino, and Buffalo. The term "Big Five" was originally coined by hunters, and referred to the five most difficult animals to hunt on foot in Africa. The Big Five wasn't chosen for their size, but rather for the difficulty in hunting them, and the degree of danger involved.

LION: The term is still used today in most tourist and wildlife guides, and are usually high on the priority list and a real treat for many a visitor to African game reserves. The Lion is a large carnivorous feline, with a short tawny coat and a tufted tail. Males have magnificent heavy manes around their necks and shoulders. Considered by many the best of the Big Five, lions are very dangerous animals, and would attack if given a chance.

ELEPHANT: The African Elephant is a very large herbivore with thick, almost hairless skin. The upper incisor of the elephant forms long curved tusks of ivory. The African Elephant is difficult to spot because despite its large size, they are able to hide in tall

RHINO: Rhinoceros (also called Rhino for short) are large, thick-skinned herbivores with one or two upright horns on the nasal bridge. Rhinos are able to reach one tone or more in weight. Rhinos are listed as "critically endangered" by the IUCN Red List, as they are killed by humans for their valuable horns, which are made of keratin, and wrongly believed by some to act as an aphrodisiac, amongst other things.

BUFFALO: The African (Cape) Buffalo is a large horned bovid. Buffalos are considered the most dangerous of the Big Five, reportedly having caused many hunter deaths. Buffalos are known as the "Black Death" in Africa, with wounded animals reportedly ambushing and attacking its pursuers.

LEOPARD: The Leopard is a large, carnivorous feline with either tawny fur with dark rosette-like markings, or black fur. Leopards are very difficult to spot as they have nocturnal feeding habits and secretive nature. Leopards are also

“BIG FIVE” ON SOUTH AFRICAN BANK NOTES

JOHANNESBURG

LESDEDI CULTURAL VILLAGE, LION PARK AND CROCODILE FARM TOUR

LESDEDI CULTURAL VILLAGE

Lesedi African Lodge and Cultural Village offers the opportunity of experiencing the fascinating cultures and traditions of the people of Africa. Located in the Cradle of Humankind, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the village is only a 45-minute drive from Johannesburg and Pretoria. The multi- cultural village features five traditional homesteads each inhabited by Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho and Ndebele tribes that live according to the tribal folklore and traditions of its ancestors. The Zulus with their sticks and cozy beehive huts, the Xhosa with their perfectly thatched rondawels (round huts) and distinctive white blankets, the Pedi with their rhythmic drums and whistles, the conical straw hats and brightly colored blankets of the Basotho and the Ndebele with their beautifully painted homes will reveal a way of life not readily encountered in the South African urban centers. Rooms are built in the traditional style but with modern conveniences, enabling guests to stay overnight to experience the lifestyle of a traditional rural African family without forfeiting comfort. Meals are a culinary feast and are enjoyed in a stylish decorated restaurant offering an exotic buffet serving ethnic dishes and a carvery. Special cultural programmes consisting of an audio-visual presentation on the history and origins of the various ethnic groups, guided tours and tribal dance displays, introducing guests to the multi-cultural lifestyle of the inhabitants of Lesedi. Enjoy the spirit of Ubuntu at this unique cultural venue where the music, song and warmth of Africa’s hospitality await you and the crafts and lifestyle of her people will thrill you. “Nyama Choma” Restaurant is divided into three sections. South Africa has murals reflecting the nine tribes of South Africa. 'East Africa' features murals of the Masai, the statuesque people of the East. 'North Africa – The Serengeti' offers the Nile Room, where you sit crossed legged on floor cushions at low tables and smoke shisha. The Fundudzi bar is situated next to the restaurant where overnight guests can relax. The Monati (lunch) and Boma (dinner) cultural experiences are two and a half hour programs starting at 11:30am and 16:30pm. Guests are taken to the Ndebele village where a welcome by all the people of Lesedi takes place. The program begins with a multi-visual presentation on the history

and origins of today’s rainbow nation, followed by a guided tour of the five homesteads. Guests are escorted to the Boma for traditional singing and dancing – a very participative affair.

LION PARK

Get up close and personal with rare white lions The Lion Park offers terrific close encounters with lions, other predators and large herbivores indigenous to Africa. You can also expect some superb filming and photographic opportunities. The Lion Park is home to over 80 lions including the rare white lions and many other carnivores such as cheetah, wild dog and brown hyena, striped hyena, spotted hyena, black-backed jackal, side-striped jackal, and a wide variety of antelope which roam freely in the antelope area. Visitors have an opportunity to interact with some of the animals in the Cub World area. A giraffe feeding platform puts you at eye level with the tame resident giraffe creating a fun experience for all ages. The hugely popular cub interaction allows guests to touch the cubs and take photographs.

CROCODILE FARM “CROC CITY”

Croc City crocodile farm provides the opportunity for the public to observe one of the world's most spectacular predators at close range. We are home to more than 800 crocodiles, ranging from hatchlings, to large adults of over four meters in length. Croc City Crocodile Farm is the first commercial crocodile farm in Gauteng granted with a display permit for crocodiles issued by the Department of Nature Conservation in November 2005. Croc City Crocodile Farm is situated, north of Johannesburg. The area is called Nietgedacht and falls within the Crocodile Ramble area. The tea garden offers delicious refreshments and in the curio shop, you will find a wide variety of souvenirs, as well as vacuum packed crocodile meat. Bring your own picnic basket and make it an affordable fun family outing. In the lecture room, a video presentation is shown to visitors on a regular basis. Educational posters and other interesting crocodile related objects are on display, e.g. crocodile eggs, hatchling crocodiles in formalin, stuffed crocodiles, crocodile skeletons etc. Curios of local African craft as well as crocodile skin and meat products are sold from the curio shop. Farm’s aim is to use local artist’s products to assist in our vision to empower the local community. Visitors are given the option of a guided tour through the park where answers to questions relevant to crocodiles and their behavior are addressed. On entering the park a pamphlet is made available with additional information and this will answer a lot of frequently asked question about crocodiles.

JOHANNESBURG CITY ORIENTATION TOUR

Johannesburg also known as Jozi, Jo'burg or eGoli, is the largest city in South Africa. Johannesburg is the provincial capital of Gauteng, the wealthiest province in South Africa, having the largest economy of any metropolitan region in Sub-Saharan Africa. The city is one of the 40 largest metropolitan areas in the world, and is also the world's largest city not situated on a river, lake, or coastline. The tour commences with stop at Constitution Hill, home of the Constitutional Court (architectural marvel) and Johannesburg’s Old Fort Prison. Our tour continues through the through the newly renovated and charming suburb of Melville with its trendy shops and restaurants, and stop at Newtown Market, home of Johannesburg Market Theatre. Neat on the itinerary is Museum Africa, Johannesburg’s premier cultural history museum, reminiscent of a 1950’s “shebeen” or pub, and here you’ll really sense the soul of the inner city. The driver back to your hotel will take you through the lush, up-market suburb of lower Houghton.