Day 1: Arrival in Cape Town – Iconic Welcome & Grandeur
- Arrive at Cape Town International Airport (CPT), feeling the vibrant excitement of beginning your South African journey.
- Transfer to Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel, Cape Town. Step into a world of grandeur and timeless elegance, immediately embraced by its iconic charm.
- Settle in and enjoy the hotel's lush gardens or historic ambiance, unwinding after your travels.
- Dinner at leisure in Cape Town, perhaps enjoying a taste of local cuisine.
- Overnight at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel.
Day 2: Cape Town Exploration – City Charm & Mountain Majesty
- Morning: Embark on a captivating City Tour of Cape Town. Explore the colorful houses and vibrant streets of Bo-Kaap, feeling a sense of cultural delight and charm.
- Afternoon: Ascend the majestic Table Mountain via cable car (weather permitting). Be filled with awe at the breathtaking panoramic views, truly feeling on top of the world.
- Dinner at leisure, perhaps at a restaurant with stunning city or ocean views.
- Overnight at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel.
Day 3: Cape Peninsula – Coastal Wonders & Playful Discoveries
- Full Day: Journey along the picturesque Cape Peninsula. Begin with a scenic drive to Hout Bay, feeling the invigorating coastal breeze.
- Take a boat trip to Seal Island, experiencing playful delight watching the lively seal colony.
- Continue to the dramatic Cape Point and the legendary Cape of Good Hope, standing at Africa's southwestern tip – a moment of profound discovery and wonder.
- Visit Boulders Beach to observe the charming African penguins, bringing a sense of joyful observation.
- Dinner at leisure.
- Overnight at Mount Nelson, A Belmond Hotel.
Day 4: Franschhoek – Tranquil Escape & Gastronomic Indulgence
- Morning: After breakfast, transfer to Franschhoek, the heart of the Cape Winelands (approx. 1-1.5 hours drive). Feel a serene sense of tranquil escape as you enter this picturesque valley.
- Check into La Residence, where opulent beauty and exclusive charm envelop you.
- Afternoon: Indulge in a sophisticated wine tasting experience at a renowned Franschhoek vineyard, savoring exquisite flavors and feeling a deep sense of gastronomic pleasure.
- Dinner at La Residence or a celebrated local restaurant.
- Overnight at La Residence.
Day 5: Franschhoek – Vineyard Serenity & Personalized Leisure
- Full Day: Immerse yourself in the serenity and captivating beauty of Franschhoek. You might choose to explore more award-winning vineyards, stroll through the charming village, or simply relax by the pool at La Residence, enjoying the breathtaking vineyard vistas.
- This day is for pure indulgence and peaceful contemplation.
- Dinner and overnight at La Residence.
Day 6: Journey to Safari – Anticipation of the Wild
- Morning: After a final breakfast at La Residence, transfer back to Cape Town International Airport (CPT).
- Fly from Cape Town to Hoedspruit - Eastgate Airport (HDS) (approx. 2.5-3 hours flight). Feel your anticipation for the raw African wilderness grow with every mile.
- Upon arrival, transfer to Malewane Lodge at Royal Malewane within Thornybush Game Reserve. Be immediately enveloped in a world of exclusive luxury and unspoiled wild beauty.
- Afternoon: Embark on your thrilling first game drive, feeling the initial excitement of searching for Africa's iconic wildlife as the sun begins to dip.
- Enjoy an exquisite dining experience at Royal Malewane, surrounded by the sounds of the bush.
- Overnight at Malewane Lodge at Royal Malewane.
Day 7: Thornybush Safari – Raw Connection & Thrilling Discoveries
- Morning: Early start for a game drive, the air thick with anticipation. Experience the heart-pounding thrill of tracking big cats or encountering a majestic herd of elephants up close.
- Return to the lodge for a sumptuous breakfast and relaxation.
- Mid-morning: Opt for an enriching bush walk with an armed ranger, fostering an intimate connection with the smaller wonders of the bushveld, feeling the earth beneath your feet.
- Afternoon: Another exhilarating game drive, seeking out different species and witnessing the captivating drama of the savanna, bringing renewed excitement and discovery.
- Dinner at Royal Malewane.
- Overnight at Malewane Lodge at Royal Malewane.
Day 8: Thornybush Safari – Personalized Indulgence & Wild Beauty
- Morning: Enjoy a final game drive in Thornybush, soaking in the last moments of raw wilderness and feeling a deep sense of gratitude for the encounters.
- Alternatively, for the golf enthusiasts, arrange a golf excursion to a nearby championship course (additional cost), blending refined sport with the stunning African landscape.
- Return to the lodge for breakfast and leisure, perhaps a spa treatment or simply relaxing by the pool.
- Afternoon: Another opportunity for a game drive, or simply relax at the lodge, savoring the peaceful ambiance.
- Dinner at Royal Malewane.
- Overnight at Malewane Lodge at Royal Malewane.
Day 9: Departure – Reflective Farewell
- After a leisurely breakfast, filled with reflection on your incredible "Southern Escapade."
- Transfer from Malewane Lodge to Hoedspruit - Eastgate Airport (HDS).
- Fly from Hoedspruit to OR Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg.
- Connect to your international departure flight, carrying cherished memories of comfort, wild beauty, and profound experiences.
