Southern Africa Safari Splendour

Day 1 - Thursday 11 September 2025

Melbourne - Sydney - Johannesburg (in-flight meals, D)

Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel. 

Join your tour hostess and fellow travellers at the Melbourne airport for our flight to Johannesburg. 

Sit back, relax and enjoy the inflight entertainment of the airlines as we head towards South Africa.

Upon arrival into Johannesburg, we'll transfer to our hotel to relax and refresh.

Dinner tonight in the hotel restaurant.

Accommodation:  City Lodge Hotel  Johannesburg (or similar)

Day 2 - Friday 12 September 2025

Johannesburg - Hoedspruit - Kapama Game Reserve (B, D)

This morning we will be transferred to the Johannesburg Airport for the onward flight to Hoedspruit.

On arrival, we will be met and transferred via the Panorama Mountain route to Kapama Game Reserve. We'll explore one of South Africa’s most picturesque routes in an area of many natural wonders and see the Pinnacle Rock towering 30 metres above the forest as well as God’s Window, one of South Africa’s most famous vantage points (on clear days you can see as far as Mozambique).  Take in the Blyde River Canyon and the Three Rondavels, massive spirals of dolomite that rise from the far wall of the canyon. 

Other highlights include the spectacular Lisbon Falls and the unusual rock formations of Bourkes Luck Potholes.  A light lunch with a soft drink is enjoyed halfway through the journey and there is a chance to explore colourful craft markets en route.

We continue to Kapama Game Reserve - our home for the next 2 nights. Combining an upmarket safari experience with luxury accommodation, the Kapama River Lodge is set on a bend of the Kapama River within the largest reserve in the Kruger National Park.  A game-rich area, we can expect to see the Big 5 and more on daily game drives and guided bush walks.  Even from the decks of this luxury lodge, game can be spotted at the nearby watering hole and along the dry riverbed.  Cool off in the beautiful swimming pool, relax in the spacious lounges and look forward to decadent bush dining in a variety of venues from the riverbed itself to the Pan-African cuisine of the Rhino Boma and the fresh seasonal dishes of the Siyatla Lounge.  An excellent wine cellar provides fine wines to accompany meals. 

Accommodation:  Kapama River Lodge, Kapama Game Reserve (or similar)

Day 3 - Saturday 13 September 2025

Kapama Game Reserve (B, L, D)

Today we'll enjoy morning and afternoon game activities offered by Kapama Game Reserve.

The Kapama Game Reserve is a slice of African paradise, a 13,000-hectare slice.  It consists of savannah and riverine forest and is where the mighty Drakensberg Mountains can be seen in the distance and the icon that is the Kruger National Park is to the east. Kapama Game Reserve is home to Africa’s most famous wildlife, the Big Five, lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard and both game drives as well as bush walks are offered.  

Accommodation:  Kapama River Lodge, Kapama Game Reserve (or similar)

Day 4 - Sunday 14 September 2025

Kapama Game Reserve - Mpumalanga (B, D)

This morning we'll enjoy a game drive activity and return to the hotel for breakfast. 

We will then be transferred to Hazyview via the Panorama Route. 

Hippo Hollow Country Estate is an African oasis set in indigenous gardens on the outskirts of Hazyview.  Minutes away from the famous Kruger National Park, this country estate is perfectly positioned and overlooks the Sabie River.  After traversing the African bush on game drives, we can relax on a hammock in the garden by the pool and watch as hippos, crocodiles and other wildlife congregate at the river.  Food is an art form at Hippo Hollow Country Estate and has been paired expertly with some of the finest South African wines.  Emphasis is on utter contentment at the estate while showcasing Africa’s distinctive natural beauty.

Accommodation:  Hippo Hollow Country Estate, Hazyview (Mpumalanga) (or similar)

Day 5 - Monday 15 September 2025

Mpumalanga - Victoria Falls (B)

This morning, we will be transferred to the Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for the onward journey to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

Upon arrival, we will be met and transferred to the hotel.

Victoria Falls, where the “Smoke that Thunders” inspires all that stand in its regal glory.  

This evening we'll enjoy a Boma Dinner including transfers.  Indulge in both a cultural as well as culinary experience at the boma dinner.  The menu comprises a range of traditional Zimbabwean dishes complemented by a delicious barbeque buffet.  The ambiance is created by local Shangaan dancers and singers who provide entertainment during the meal – face painting is an optional extra!  A traditional storyteller adds that extra element of intrigue and drama to the evening.  The sound of the drums reverberates through the stillness of the African night.

Accommodation: Palm River Hotel, Victoria Falls (or similar)

Day 6 - Tuesday 16 September 2025

Victoria Falls (B, D)

This morning, we enjoy a guided tour of the Falls.

It's no surprise that Victoria Falls is one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World.  Understand it instantly with a tour on the Zimbabwean side, for there are numerous spectacular vantage points along the width of the Falls, and the sight of this astounding gift of nature, simply takes your breath away.  Walk through the permanent, beautifully misty rain forest that flanks the Falls, stopping to marvel at the principal sites as it cascades to the depths below the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, Cataract Island and Livingstone Island.  Stand and watch, feel and listen to the spray and thunderous noise, as millions of litres of water tumble over the Falls into a series of narrow gorges below.  The seventh Natural Wonder of the World puts on the most dramatic show.

Later this afternoon, we will be transferred to the departure point for the sunset cruise onboard Zambezi Explorer, Signature Deck, including canapes and beverages.  Pure Africa’s reimagined River Cruise brings a new level of sophistication to Victoria Falls.  Facilities on the Signature Deck include a fully stocked bar, wheelchair access, wheelchair toilet and wifi.  It also houses a kitchen where fresh cooked food is prepared.  Uniquely designed, the upper ‘Signature Deck’ is utter sophistication, and guests are encouraged to relax into the deep-set couches that reflect the earthy tones and river blues found in the surroundings.  Enjoy uninterrupted views from the 6m elevation, delicious canapés and the service of a dedicated mixologist.  A range of Pure Africa wines, craft beer and artisanal spirits are also available throughout.  Cruising along the Zambezi River is an experience that creates lasting memories and includes sightings of hippos and crocodiles and any other species that congregate on the banks to quench their thirst.  As the sun sets, head back to the Pure Africa Waterfront. 

Accommodation: Palm River Hotel, Victoria Falls (or similar)

Day 7 - Wednesday 17 September 2025

Victoria Falls - Kasane (B, L, D)

This morning we will be picked up and transferred to Kasane after crossing the border into Botswana.

Chobe National Park is undoubtedly one of the best safari destinations in the world. This land is famed for its gentle giants, the African elephant and Chobe has one of the largest concentrations of them in Africa. The abundance of wildlife in this reserve is truly prolific and it’s all centered around the Chobe River and, in Africa, where there is water, there is life.  The river is populated with hippos and crocodiles and an overwhelming amount of birdlife that has photographers from all over the world itching to get a shot of the many rare species. 

Offering gorgeous accommodation in an enviable location on the banks of Botswana’s Chobe River, Cresta Mowana Safari Lodge is situated amidst tranquil surroundings and offers outstanding personalised service, delicious cuisine and an array of exciting activities for those looking for an authentic African experience.

Accommodation: Cresta Mowana Lodge, Kasane (or similar)

Day 8 - Thursday 18 September 2025

Chobe National Park (B, L D)

Today we'll enjoy game-viewing activities in the incredible Chobe National Park.

Accommodation: Cresta Mowana Lodge, Kasane (or similar)

Day 9 - Friday 19 September 2025

Kasane - Victoria Falls - Cape Town (B)

After breakfast, we'll check out and transfer to the Victoria Falls Airport for the onward journey back into South Africa.

Upon arrival into Cape Town International Airport, we will be met by a local guide and local driver and transferred to the hotel for our 4-night stay.

Accommodation:  The Commodore Hotel, Cape Town (or similar)

Day 10 - Saturday 20 September 2025

Cape Town (B)

This morning, we depart from the Nelson Mandela Gateway at the V&A Waterfront and head to one of the most famous prisons in the world, Robben Island.  This is where South Africa’s father of the nation spent 18 years, the legend of a man, Nelson Mandela.  Disembark at Murray’s Harbour on the east coast of the island and take a short walk to buses that will transport us to all of the historically significant sites. The guides inside the prison today, are former political prisoners and their knowledge of this island is unparalleled and adds a unique cultural layer to this experience. The tour culminates with a viewing of Nelson Mandela’s cell. 

Please note:  Robben Island requires guests to produce a form of identification when boarding the ferry to visit the island.  All visitors need to present a passport, birth certificate, or driver's license.

After, we'll take a trip to the top of the world, high above the clouds on the famous Table Mountain (weather permitting). Table Mountain is an icon in Cape Town and is most likely the most photographed landmark in the country. Table Mountain has been named as of the seven wonders of nature and attracts millions of visitors from all across the globe, in fact, since the opening of the aerial cableway in 1929, more than 22 million people have taken the trip to the top.  At the upper cable station, guests will find a restaurant and a curio shop as well as some footpaths for exploration.

Later, we'll explore South Africa’s exciting “Mother City” on a guided tour of the historical and cultural sights of Cape Town.  Step into the rich history of the city passing by key historical monuments and places of interest, such as the impressive Castle of Good Hope and Cape Town City Hall.  Stop at the beautiful St George’s Cathedral, pass through the lush Company Gardens, and explore a cultural hub of Cape Town, the Bo Kaap, also known as the Cape Malay Quarter.  A tour of this vibrant city, home to street markets of every kind, cosmopolitan and rustic eateries, and a host of cultures is an unforgettable experience.

Accommodation:  The Commodore Hotel, Cape Town (or similar)

Day 11 - Sunday 21 September 2025

Cape Town (B, D)

This morning, we depart Cape Town for a Cape Peninsula Full Day Tour including Chapman’s Peak (weather permitting), Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point Funicular, Boulders Beach (Penguins) and Kirstenbosch Gardens.

The road out of town takes us to Chapman’s Peak along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world. Locals call this famous scenic drive that winds its way between picturesque Hout Bay and Noordhoek on Cape Town’s stunning Atlantic Ocean coastline “Chappies”. The toll route stretches nine kilometres along the coast taking 114 curves in a road carved out by prisoners of war in the mid-1910s over a seven-year period.  On the one side are towering cliffs and on the other a steep drop to the ocean.  A favourite with visitors and locals alike for scenic hikes, cycles and drives, as well as picnicking.

The famous Cape of Good Hope nature reserve, a World Heritage site, is set at the end of Cape Town’s south peninsula. Take a trip via funicular to the lighthouse at 286 metres above sea level (built to warn ships they are approaching the feared “Cape of Storms”), stroll along the cliff paths or venture down the steep slopes to the stunning white-sand beaches below.  

The reserve is home to a variety of small wildlife and is a favoured picnicking, fishing (with a permit) and hiking destination with its rich plant biodiversity and inspiring landscapes.

Later we'll return to Cape Town via Boulders Beach, home of the endangered land-based colony of African penguins, and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, set up against Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain. It is the first botanical garden to be included within a natural World Heritage site.

This evening, we enjoy a 14-dish taste safari and interactive drumming at Gold Restaurant.

Accommodation:  The Commodore Hotel, Cape Town (or similar)

Day 12 - Monday 22 September 2025

Cape Town (B)

Today we have a free day at leisure in Cape Town.

Relax or enjoy some last-minute shopping.

Accommodation:  The Commodore Hotel, Cape Town (or similar)

Day 13 - Tuesday 23 September 2025

Cape Town - Stellenbosch (B, L, D)

This morning, we depart Cape Town for the Cape Winelands. 

Stellenbosch is often described as the crown jewel of the Cape Winelands. It is a world-class wine, art and hospitality destination and has exceptional examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture along its oak-lined streets.  It is the second oldest town in South Africa and was founded in 1679; it also boasts being the oldest wine route in the country. Stellenbosch also has a youthful exuberance thanks to the prestigious University. 

Today, it has a wealth of wine estates that beckon with the promise of pleasing palates as well as art galleries, designer boutiques and fascinating museums. Gastronomy is an art form in Stellenbosch and plates are usually masterpieces of passion and creativity. Stellenbosch is an aesthetic beauty and there are a number of hiking trails in the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve for those who want to immerse themselves in the landscape. Enjoy a tour of the town.

Visit Fairview Wine Estate for a wine and cheese tasting followed by lunch at The Goatshed Restaurant. Their world-renowned tasting room consists of 4 unique, barrel-shaped 'pods' that facilitate a welcoming and more social tasting.  The custom-designed pods offer a tasting selection of 6 different wines with dedicated hosts to guide and assist guests.  The tasting also includes an expertly paired selection of 6 Fairview cow and goat's milk cheeses.

Return to Stellenbosch and check in to the hotel for an overnight stay including breakfast.  The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.

This evening enjoy dinner at De Volkskombuise Restaurant

Accommodation: Southern Sun De Wagen, Stellenbosch (or similar)

Day 14 - Wednesday 24 September 2025

Stellenbosch - Cape Town - Johannesburg (B)

This morning we will be transferred to Cape Town International Airport for the flight to Johannesburg.

Upon arrival into Johannesburg, we will be met and transferred to the hotel.

The remainder of the day is at leisure.

Accommodation: Southern Sun Rosebank, Johannesburg (or similar)

Day 15 - Thursday 25 September 2025

Johannesburg (B, L, in-flight meals)

Today, we'll enjoy a Soweto Tour by Tuk Tuk.

The tour begins at the panoramic viewpoint atop ‘Leboland’, where visitors are surrounded by pumpkin fields from the community garden and the lush greenery of the campsite, offering a 360-degree view of Soweto. Here, our guide provides insights into the area's history and current community initiatives. From this vantage point, visitors can spot landmarks such as the Orlando Towers and Orlando Stadium.

Next, the tour proceeds to the former men’s hostel in Mzimhlophe, once home to migrant mine workers during the apartheid era. Guests learn about the history of gold mining in Gauteng, and the harsh conditions endured by the workers, and witness the area's development today.

Continuing towards Orlando West and the famed Vilakazi Street precinct, we'll make quick stops to support local traders, sampling delicacies and refreshments along the way. The next stop is the Hector Peterson memorial site, dedicated to the Soweto Uprising of June 16, 1976, when students protested the apartheid government’s education system in Black schools. Afterward, the tour proceeds down Vilakazi Street, stopping outside Nelson Mandela’s house to delve into the life and legacy of this leader.  Later, we'll return to where the tour started and enjoy lunch.

This afternoon we will be transferred from Lebo to the OR Tambo International Airport for the flight back to Australia.

Day 16 - Friday 26 September 2025

Welcome home!

Welcome Home! 

We'll arrive late afternoon into Melbourne.

Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure!