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Itinerary for South Africa Escape • Expat Explore
Start Point: End Point:
Cape Town International Airport, Garden Court OR Tambo International
Matroosfontein, Cape Town, 7490, South Africa Airport Hotel,
12:15 hrs & 14:45 hrs 2 Hulley Rd, Isando, Kempton Park, 1619,
StayEasy City Bowl Cape Town, South Africa
54 Bree St, Cape Town City Centre, Cape Town, from 10:00 hrs Johannesburg airport
8000 (Oliver Tambo International Airport),
Check in from 15:00 hrs O.R. Tambo Airport Rd, O.R. Tambo,
Johannesburg, 1627, South Africa
Complimentary airport transfers offered -
email us for confirmation
DAY 1: Arrive in Cape Town
Wamkelekile e iKapa! Welcome to Cape Town! The Mother city is South Africa's oldest city and one
of three official capital cities. For flights arriving today, an Expat Explore team member will meet
and greet you at Cape Town airport. A complimentary airport transfer is offered at selected times to
take you to our starting hotel in the city. If you arrive early enough you'll have some free time to Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 2/18
explore Cape Town and its many tourist attractions. This evening you will meet your tour leader as
well as your fellow travellers from all over the world. Enjoy a welcome dinner this evening and get
to know your travel companions.
Experiences
Book flights to arrive at Cape Town international airport today, where a member of the Expat
Explore team will direct you to your complementary airport transfer (certain times - see tour help
section for more information), which will take you to the starting hotel in the city.
Enjoy an included welcome dinner this evening - the perfect opportunity to get to know your
Expat Explore tour leader and fellow travellers!
Included Meals
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner:
DAY 2: Cape Town City Tour
Your first full day in South Africa kicks off with a driving tour of Cape Town city centre, stopping at
the Castle of Good Hope, famous St. George’s cathedral and take a stroll through the colourful Cape
Malay quarters. We’ll also visit the well-known Company's Gardens - the oldest garden in the Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 3/18
country. The afternoon is then yours free to explore this incredible city. With a drop off at the
beautiful V&A Waterfront, this is the perfect place to have lunch and try a variety of local foods,
including some fresh fish right next to the Cape Town harbour. After lunch, why not take a cable car
ride up to Table mountain? This table-shaped mountain is a prominent landmark that towers over
Cape Town. Table Mountain is one of the official 'New 7 Wonders of Nature'!
Experiences
Cape Town city tour: Explore the heart of Cape Town. See highlights including the Castle of
Good Hope which was once a Dutch stronghold, see St George’s Mall which is a bustling cobbled
pedestrian street lined with shops, stalls and historic buildings. Wonder through the Company’s
Gardens before enjoying a taste of local culture in the Cape Malay Quarter.
Explore the V&A Waterfront: Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the ever-popular V&A Waterfront!
It’s home to world-class shopping, top-rated restaurants serving fresh, delicious food, craft markets,
buskers and great views of the harbour. Travelers can enjoy boat cruises and even helicopter trips!
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: StayEasy Cape Town City Bowl
Optional Excursions
Helicopter Flight: R 1450
Langa Experience: R 990
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 3: Cape Town: Free Day Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 4/18
Today is your free day to explore Cape Town! Outside of the famous Robben Island and Table
Mountain, the list of travel attractions are endless. Visit the Botanical Gardens, Constantia wine
valley, the Two Oceans Aquarium or District 6 Museum. You also have the option to join the Cape
Point & Peninsula day-trip and venture further south with your tour leader. Cape Point nature reserve
is a one hour drive from Cape Town, on the southeast corner of the Cape Peninsula. Expect beautiful
landscapes, over 40 km of coastline and a variety of fauna and flora. The Cape Fynbos is a natural
shrubland found here - the smallest floral kingdom in the world. Continuing along the peninsula,
stop at Boulder’s beach to see free-roaming African penguins. Stop for lunch and free time in Kalk
Bay, a quirky coastal town. Make your way back to the hotel after this and spend the rest of the day
at your leisure.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: StayEasy Cape Town City Bowl
Optional Excursions
Cape Peninsula Day Trip: R 1200
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DAY 4: Stellenbosch - Cape Winelands - Hermanus
This morning we explore the Cape Winelands! Following breakfast we take a scenic drive through
the Cape wine region. First stop is Stellenbosch, a special university town in the heart of the Cape
winelands. Explore the Cape Dutch architecture and many laid-back coffee shops, boutiques and art
galleries. Lunch is a delicious traditional meal served among the vineyards at a winery. South Africa
has the oldest wine industry outside of Europe. This is your chance to taste South Africa's signature
wine, Pinotage. Learn all about Cape district wines and the wine-making process from a local wine
expert . After one more wine tasting tour this afternoon we take a heavenly coastal drive to
Hermanus. The evening you will have free time to explore the town of Hermanus.
Experiences
Stellenbosch - Take some free time to explore the historical university town, admire the mix of
Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture, the tree lined streets and relaxing coffee shops.
Cape Winelands - Enjoy two wine tasting and included lunch at a wine farm in the famous
winelands region of the Western Cape.
Hermanus - Savour the stunning coastal views as we make our way to Hermanus, where you’ll
have a free evening to explore this delightful town on the Cape Whale Coast Route - if you’re lucky
you’ll even be able to spot whales from the beach!
Included Meals Accommodation Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 6/18
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Windsor Hotel
DAY 5: Hermanus - Swellendam - Mossel Bay
This is the official start of our Garden Route adventure! This morning you can stay put in Hermanus
to explore this beautiful harbour town. It’s one of the world's best whale-watching destinations. In
season, June to November, you can spot them right off the coast. Join one of the optional excursions
for the day: Shark Cage Diving or a Whale and Eco tour. This is your chance to see Great White
sharks in their natural habitat. The excursion includes a short drive to Gansbaai - a famous shark
cage diving spots in South Africa. Free time for lunch is in Swellendam. Taste authentic Boerekos
(traditional farmer’s food), or perhaps some Springbok (venison) carpaccio. After lunch stop outside
of Albertinia to visit Cape Aloe Vera farm. Taste aloe tea, sample the facial cream and learn more
about the health benefits and uses of this indigenous plant. The final destination for today is Mossel
Bay, a coastal village and popular holiday destination. Before making for the hotel we stop at the
Pinnacle Caves. This archaeological site is where the early evidence of modern human behaviour
has been found. Fossil findings date as far back as 170,000 years ago. Dinner is included at the
hotel tonight.
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Swellendam - enjoy free time for lunch in the third oldest town in the Republic of South Africa.
Check out the incredible architecture of the Dutch Reformed Church - a striking mix of Italian
Baroque and French Gothic influences, with an Eastern dome and Cape Dutch facades.
Aloe Vera farm - Stop at one of the original aloe factories in the Hessequa region. Sample various
Aloe Vera products, walk around in the indigenous garden (with 17 species of aloe) and drink some
Aloe tea!
Mossel Bay - Visit Pinnacle Point Caves, a Provincial Heritage Site where human bones of between
40,000 and 170,000 years ago has been discovered. The discoveries have led to further studies by
the Institute of Human Origins.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Oceans Hotel
Optional Excursions
Shark Cage Diving: R 2430
Marine Eco Big 5 Trip: R 1390
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 6: Garden Route: Game Drive - Knysna - Garden Route Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 8/18
First thing this morning we head to Botlierskop Private Game Reserve for a unique safari experience.
Enjoy close encounters with impala, wildebeest, rhinos, lions, giraffes and more! Over lunch we’ll be
in Knysna, the heart of the Garden Route. Jump aboard a double-decker floating restaurant for an
optional lunch cruise (fresh oysters anyone?). The lagoon cruise will take you along Knysna Bay for
spectacular views of the area. You can even do some bird watching from the deck. If you don't feel
like a cruise, explore the beautiful harbour area and dine in a local restaurant.
From Knysna we depart for more exciting animal adventures. Roam free with the monkeys at
Monkeyland, a multi-species monkey sanctuary. Alternatively, visit Birds of Eden, a unique eco-
tourism experience, and the world's largest free flight aviary and bird sanctuary. Dinner is included
this evening after which you can kick off your shoes for some rest.
Experiences
Botlierskop Game Drive - Get to know the garden route wildlife on an open vehicle safari truck in
Botlierskop Private Game Reserve. Sightings include buffalo, zebra, giraffe, golden wildebeest,
hippos, rhinoceros, lions and more than 200 bird species!
Knysna - Experience the laid-back yet stylish vibe of Knysna. A small and quaint town known as
"the beating heart" of the Garden Route. Get off at the Knysna waterfront - an ideal location with
unique and trendy stores, water activities and the most divine dining options.
Tsitsikamma Microbrewery - Visit a local craft brewery hang-out for a charming craft beer
tasting experience. A local beer brewer takes you through the process of beer-making, allow you to
taste Tsitsikamma favourites like Storms River Ale, Redwood Ale and the Woodcutters Ale. Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 9/18
*Only offered for passengers staying at the Tsitsikamma Village Inn.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Tsitsikamma Village Inn
Tsitsikamma Lodge and Spa
Optional Excursions
Monkeyland: R 280
Birds of Eden: R 280
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 7: Tsitsikamma National Park & Storms River - Eastern Cape
The Tsitsikamma forest forms part of the greater Garden Route National Park. The area
encompasses rivers, gorges, mountains and lush forests and plantations - the perfect place to get
adventurous! The morning is yours to explore the great outdoors. Options to consider include tree-
top canopy tours, bungy jumping at Bloukrans bridge (the highest bridge bungy in the world!) or the
Woodcutters trail drive. Then it’s onto the Storms River mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park. You can Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 10/18
take a walk along the coast, cross the longest suspension river in South Africa, and have some free
time to enjoy lunch overlooking the ocean. This afternoon we take a drive to the Eastern Cape coast
where we'll spend the rest of the day.
Experiences
Tsitsikamma National Park & Storms River mouth - A suspension bridge and lookout trail that
meanders along the most spectacular ocean and forest landscapes. The highlight of the walk is a
famous 77m long suspension bridge over the Storms River bridge. As you walk keep an eye out for
the Knysna Loerie, Cape Clawless Otter and dolphins.
Eastern Cape - Surfers and beach lovers from the world over flock to the Eastern Cape every year.
Its over 800 km of breathtaking coastline, offers perfect mild weather, nature walks and some of the
best swimming and surfing beaches in South Africa (it's also a water sport paradise!). Did you know
the Eastern Cape was Nelson Mandela's home province?
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Cape St Francis Resort
Optional Excursions
Bloukrans Bungy Jump: R 1400
Tree Canopy Zip-lining: R 695
Woodcutters Trail Drive: R 350
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 8: Fruit Route: Route 62 - Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farm - Cango Caves Excursion Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 11/18
Get set to explore a different region of South Africa as we leave the Garden Route behind and
meander along Route 62. Head for the arid Karoo, and the drive takes you through the Langkloof.
Nestled between the Kouga and Tsitsikamma mountains, this area offers spectacular views. You will
see vineyards, fruit and vegetable farms dotted along the road. Make it to Oudtshoorn, South
Africa’s famous ostrich capital! Stop off for a guided tour of a working ostrich farm and learn more
about these big feathered animals and sit down for a special included lunch. Take advantage of the
opportunity to explore one of South Africa's hidden treasures, the Cango Caves. This cave valley is a
series of dripstone caverns that are more than 20 million years old. Explore on a heritage walking
tour of the caves or go for the adventure rock- and cave climbing experience (especially if you're
feeling a bit adventurous). This evening sit down for a lovely Karoo dinner.
Experiences
Visit a Klein Karoo ostrich farm - Take a guided tour which covers the history of ostrich farming,
farming practices and the breeding cycle of these special Karoo ostriches. Also get the opportunity
to meet ostrich adults and chicks for a special up-close experience. A delicious traditional lunch is
also included in this experience.
Karoo Dinner: Eating and drinking in the Karoo is an experience in itself! On the menu tonight are a
variety of dishes prepared the traditional way: ‘Braaivleis’ (BBQ), boerewors (South African
sausage), potato salad, fresh seasonal veg and an iconic South African dessert. You might also get
to taste true Karoo lamb with its distinct herby flavour due to the fragrant shrubs and grasses sheep
naturally feed on in this region. Either way, this is sure to be a sensational culinary experience!
Included Meals Accommodation Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 12/18
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: De Oude Meul Country Lodge
Protea Hotel by Marriott Riempie Estate
Optional Excursions
Star Gazing: R 420
Cango Caves Adventure Tour: R 70
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 9: George - Johannesburg - Kruger National Park Region
This morning, travel from Oudtshoorn to George for an early morning flight to Johannesburg. On
your way to the airport, see the sun rise over the Langkloof. The first stop is on the Outeniqua pass
to take in the truly magnificent views. After taking an included flight to Johannesburg in the Gauteng
province, land in the "City of Gold", Johannesburg. Then travel east towards the South Africa’s
Mpumalanga province. The day ends as you arrive at tonight’s accommodation located on the
outskirts of the Kruger National park. Settle down for an included meal under the African sky on
arrival.
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Scenic drive - Early morning we travel through the Langkloof and Outeniqua mountains to the
airport in George, for an included internal flight to Johannesburg.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner:
DAY 10: Kruger National Park Region
Time for a full-day game drive of the park! Sitting elevated in the tour bus you can easily spot
animals in the bush, perhaps even the iconic Big 5! The Kruger National Park stretches over 20,000
square km and is just a bit smaller than the country of Belgium. In the park you can see all African
game in their natural habitat. Spot wild animals like cheetahs, wild dogs, leopards, elephants and
the white and black rhino. En route, stop at rest camps like Skukuza, Tshokwane and Satara. Around
late afternoon, make your way to the safari lodge/hotel on the western edge of the park, for a multi-
night stay. Time for a relaxing swim in the pool and a sun-downer or two before our included dinner
this evening!
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Kruger National Park game drive - Enjoy a full-day game drive through the southern part of Kruger
in our air-conditioned tour bus. Keep your eyes peeled for the iconic 'Big 5' - the African lion, African
elephant, Cape buffalo, African leopard and rhinoceros. Today's Kruger conservation fee is included
in the tour price..
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner:
DAY 11: Kruger National Park Region: Free Day
Time to further explore the Kruger National Park! Embark on a safari from the safari lodge/hotel in
open safari trucks led by local wildlife specialists. A full-day safari drive gives you the chance to
spend the day driving in prime game viewing areas, stopping at various waterholes and rest camps.
Snacks and lunch are served picnic style along the way. Try to spot some of the resident antelope,
birds and wildlife from your truck. Fingers crossed you’ll be able to tick off more animals on your list!
Did you know that Kruger National Park is home to 114 different species of reptiles, 507 kinds of
birds and 147 mammal species? You are sure to come across some of the most amazing creatures in
Africa. Slip into the pool on return to cool down before enjoying an included dinner - in true African
style. Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 15/18
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner:
Optional Excursions
Full-day Game Drive: R 780
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 12: Kruger National Park Region: Free Day
Today you have the option to go on a full-day, half-day, sunrise safari. The sunrise safari offers you
the chance to be outside in the African bush during an enchanting time of day. Listen to the chorus
of animals as they awake and the sun rises over the savanna. As it gets cooler the animals move
around to find food, and your guide will follow to see if there's anything interesting to see. This
evening, enjoy our last dinner in the African bush. Spend time around the campfire exchanging
safari stories and sipping Amarula (an African liqueur made with fruit of the Marula tree).
Included Meals Accommodation Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 16/18
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner:
Optional Excursions
Half-day Game Drive: R 670
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.
DAY 13: Three Rondawels - Bourke’s Luck Potholes - Blyde River Canyon Viewpoint - Johannesburg
Leave the Kruger National Park behind, discover the Panorama Route through the Mpumalanga
province. The first destination is the renowned Three Rondavels viewpoint with a stunning vista over
the Blyde River Canyon. This canyon forms part of the Drakensberg ridge and known for storybook
views. Next is Bourke’s Luck potholes, a natural water feature with hundreds of natural potholes and
plunge pools. This area marks the beginning of the Blyde River Canyon. On a clear day, you can see
the Kruger and even Mozambique in the distance. Continue the final leg of the tour back to
Johannesburg. Sit down for a farewell dinner with new friends!
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Three Rondavels - A spectacular viewpoint where you can take in views of three famous mountain
tops that tower over the Blyde River Canyon. Named after a traditional round-shaped African
homestead, The Three Rondavels is one of the major attractions in the area. Various look-out points
are sure to offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Bourke’s Luck Potholes - Take a short walk and wander around what has been dubbed "nature's
wishing well". You will see numerous waterholes, plunge pools and impressive rock formations. Visit
the information centre to learn more about the natural history as well as the "San" people, the
earliest inhabitants of this region.
Blyde River Canyon Viewpoint - Get one last look at the majestic Blyde River canyon. This must
be one of the most cherished and most photographed views in South Africa. See the Lowveld of
South Africa with the Kruger National Park and Mozambique in the far distance.
Farewell dinner - Sit down for one last special dinner together with the group in Johannesburg. You
are now in the bustling city of Johannesburg, the second largest city in Africa. Exchange stories,
highlights and memories as you look back at your two-week South African experience.
Included Meals Accommodation
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner: Garden Court Oliver Tambo International Airport
Holiday Inn Johannesburg Airport
DAY 14: Johannesburg: End of tour Expat Explore - Version: Sat Sep 25 2021 16:29:32 GMT+0000 (Coordinated Universal Time) Page: 18/18
The South Africa Escape tour concludes after breakfast. Have one last breakfast together to say bon
voyage. Guests are welcome to stay on to explore Jozi, as the locals call Johannesburg. If you are
flying home today, a complementary airport transfer is offered to take you to Johannesburg airport.
Included Meals
Breakfast: Lunch: Dinner:
Optional Excursions
Johannesburg City Tour: R 900
Soweto Half Day Tour: R 900
Soweto Half Day Tour with Lunch: R 1300
* Stated prices and availability are subject to change.