Summerfields – 2 Nights

Day 1

After arriving at Oliver Tambo International Airport a short one-hour flight will bring you to Nelspruit situated in Mpumalanga province meaning “THE PLACE WHERE THE SUN RISES!”. Formally known as Eastern Transvaal, Mpumalanga is considered to be one of the most geographically diverse and unbelievably beautiful places in South Africa. eyeseeAfrica will collect you at the airport for your 45-minute transfer to Summerfields Rose Retreat. Summerfields is the ultimate destination for relaxation and tranquility set on a pristine working farm beside the Sabie River. The Spa is surrounded by bush-clad mountains on the banks of the Sabie River which affords glimpses of crocodiles and hippos. The bird life is prolific with over 100 species already identified on the estate.
The accommodation comprises 12 luxury tented suites, surrounded by the music of nature’s sounds of cascading water, amplified by a choir of bird calls and the occasional snort of a hippo. The spa is located by the river, just a short walk from the tented suites and The River Café where lunches are enjoyed. After settling into your room the rest of the afternoon is to relax and maybe have a quick nap after your long flight. In the late afternoon it is time for a sun downer drink on the patio of your tent before making your way to dinner at the Summerfields Kitchen. Dining at Summerfields is a gastronomic experience. The owners pride themselves on their attention to detail, from the carefully prepared menus to the table settings. All vegetables are taken fresh from their own organic nursery where everything is grown as close to its natural and original form as possible.

Day 2

This morning after a lazy late breakfast next to the river you have the option to spend time at the unique Rose Spa and experience a total escape from your daily life routines. There are many treatments on offer and a full body massage amongst the tranquil river sounds is highly recommended after your long international flight. Lunch is served at the fully licensed River Café where there is also a lounge and library area with beautiful views over the Sabie River. Summerfields Farm comprises 100 acres of rolling hills running down to the river, with orchards of macadamia and litchi trees and granadilla plantations. Should you want to be a bit more active, a tour of the farm and the rose tunnels can be arranged. Dinner will again be served at Summerfields Kitchen.

 

Accommodation 

Accommodation – Summerfields Rose Retreat – View Property
Meals – HB

The River Lodge comprises 12 luxury tented suites, surrounded by the music of nature – the sounds of cascading water, amplified by a choir of bird calls and the occasional snort of a hippo. Attention to detail is evident in every rose-variety suite, with specially designed furniture, percale linen and the tantalizing fragrance of fresh cut roses from the farm. All units are air-conditioned with additional roof fans, have double vanities, an outdoor shower and luxury bath, are stocked with quality toiletries and have a private fridge for the comfort of our guests.

Activities Optional
Spa treatments
Farm tour
Orchard walks
Rose tours

Kruger National Park – 4 Nights

Day 3

This morning after breakfast you are transferred to the Kruger National Park via Mpumalanga’s Panorama Route which offers a wealth of attractions which make for one of the most spectacular self-drive routes in the province and indeed, the entire country. Well known for attracting scores of breakfast-run bikers and meandering through pine forests, sweeping grasslands, sub-tropical bush and beautiful mountain ranges, the Panorama Route along the Mpumalanga escarpment is both pleasurable and picturesque to drive along.
In the early afternoon, just in time for your first game drive, you will arrive at your safari destination. Situated in South Africa’s northernmost province of Limpopo, renowned for its prolific and diverse wildlife, Kapama Private Game Reserve is home to over 40 different mammal species, including the Big Five of elephant, lion, leopard, buffalo and rhinoceros. Approximately 350 bird species and a myriad smaller species can also be seen here in their natural environment.
Set among tall, shady trees, with a seasonal river below, Buffalo Camp’s suites are ultra-luxurious tents. Dark wood and leather finishes add a nostalgic air, while oil lanterns illuminating the walkways at night create a wonderfully romantic ambience. Each luxury tent features en-suite bathrooms and aircon, as well as heated blankets for cooler weather comfort. After settling into your luxury tent there will be time for a quick cup of coffee or tea before going on your first game drive. We will return to camp just before sunset and after refreshing, drinks will be followed by dinner under a starry African night sky.

Day 4-6

For the next two days it will be an early rise for your game drives followed by a late breakfast on each return from the bush. The best game viewing in the African bush is at sunrise and sunset when the animals are active. Across all of Kapama’s lodges, two daily game drives are offered daily and accompanied by a skilled ranger and tracker, guests can expect to encounter a diverse range of animal and bird species on game drives. Another popular activity is to feel Africa underfoot on a guided bush walk with a highly trained game ranger. This experience offers an intimate encounter with nature and wildlife, and medicinal and other plants are identified en route. Bush walks are included in your stay.
The elephant interaction offered by Kapama is a unique opportunity for guests to get extremely close to the world’s largest land animals. As an additional add-on to the luxury safari experience guests can expect at Kapama, this activity offers visitors the chance to learn about African elephants, both wild and habituated, as they interact and feed these gentle giants. To see rare wildlife up close you will be transferred on day 3 to the nearby Hoedspruit Centre for Endangered Species. Here cheetah, wild dog, serval, caracal and various other species are rehabilitated and can be safely viewed from close range. Rare king cheetah can also be seen here.
This African camp atmosphere at Buffalo is perpetuated at mealtimes with serve-yourself choices presented in heavy African cooking pots over a gentle flame. Hot and cold breakfast and lunch options are spread out across the servery, while dinner is prepared in the kitchen or cooked on the grill and served around an open fire in the circular traditional outdoor Boma.

 

Accommodation 

Accommodation – Kapama Buffalo Camp – View Property
Meals – FI

Set among tall, shady trees, with a seasonal river below, Buffalo Camp’s suites are ultra-luxurious tents that consistently delight our guests. Dark wood and leather finishes add a nostalgic air, while oil lanterns illuminating the walkways at night create a wonderfully romantic ambience.
Each luxury tent features en-suite bathrooms, an air-conditioner, as well as heated blankets for cooler weather comfort. Tea and Nespresso coffee facilities come standard, along with a fully stocked minibar. For peace of mind, there’s a lock-up safe for your valuables, and for our guests from abroad, international plugs for convenience.

Activities Included
Morning & evening game drives
Game walks
Elephant interaction

Activities Optional
Hoedpruit endangered species visit

Victoria Falls – 3 Nights

Day 7

An early transfer this morning to Nelspruit for your flight to Livingstone in Zambia via Nelspruit airport. You will be collected at the Livingstone airport for your transfer to the Royal Livingstone Hotel situated on the banks of the mighty Zambezi river. On 16 November 1855, David Livingstone first laid eyes on the waterfall that would define his life story, and that of an entire country. Visible from over 30km away, the Kololo people with whom he had travelled downriver called it Mosi-oa-Tunya ‘the smoke that thunders’. As the first European to witness this magnificent site, he decided to name it Victoria Falls in honour of his Queen. The Royal Livingstone Hotel is a luxurious 5 star plus hotel situated on the Zambian side of the falls. The hotel stretches along the banks of the Zambezi River, just a short walk to the entrance of Victoria Falls. It is named in honour of David Livingstone, and its interior design reflects the elegance of days gone by, using an African architectural style. After settling into your room a short walk will bring you to the water’s edge of the river. The Zambezi Sunset Cruise is almost a compulsory outing when in Victoria Falls and suitable for the whole family. It is an ideal way to end your day, providing an opportunity to unwind and relax in the timeless environment while enjoying complimentary sundowner drinks and light snacks. Dinner will be served under a starry night with great views over the river.

Day 8

This morning after breakfast you will be collected in the reception of your hotel to be transferred to Zimbabwe for a guided walking tour of the breath-taking Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. The falls are more majestic on the Zimbabwean side, therefore you will cross the border from Zambia where a network of paths allows you to thoroughly see the falls from every angle. Hereafter you will enjoy lunch at the Lookout Café. The cafe is perched 120m above the turbulent rapids of the Zambezi River, overhanging a giant chasm of the Batoka Gorge and just down from the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge which forms part of its spectacular backdrop. The semi open‐air café undoubtedly offers the best views in Victoria Falls. For the rest of the day you are free to explore the town and its many activities. For the adrenaline junkies there is the wildest one-day white water rafting trip in the world, the 111-meter-high bungee jump, river surfing, kayaking as well as heart stopping gorge swings, zip wires and many more. For the more sedate there are river cruises, elephant interactions, rich local arts, crafts and cultural experiences, fishing, golf, and game and safari adventures. In the late afternoon you will be transferred back to the Royal Livingstone where dinner is booked at one of the dining venues.

Day 9

After an early breakfast this morning get transferred to Botswana after crossing 2 borders. Chobe National Park is known for the large herds of elephants and buffalo. They tend to make their way to the river for a drink and onto the islands in the river to feast off the sweet grass. River boat safaris on the Chobe river offer a unique up-close and personal game viewing and bird watching opportunity. A specially adapted boat will take you through the unique islands and channels that provide such a haven for bird and wildlife. Your professional boat captain will impart their knowledge of this amazing environment and the people that inhabit its shores. This full day trip to the Chobe starts with a morning on the river and then a game drive on land in the Chobe National Park in the afternoon. This evening we will arrange a private dining setting on the banks of the Zambezi river under a starry African night.

 

Accommodation 

Accommodation – Royal Livingstone – View Property
Meals – B&B

The Royal Livingstone is located on the Zambian side of the Zambezi River in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, overlooking and with direct access to the Victoria Falls. Renowned for its colonial-inspired décor, The Royal Livingstone owes its existence to its named in honour of the explorer David Livingstone. All of the luxury rooms and suites feature a private veranda with mighty Zambezi River views.

Activities Included
Sunset river cruise
Guided tour of the falls
Lunch at Lookout Cafe
Chobe safari on land and water

Activities Optional
Helicopter flight
Microlight flight
Elephant interaction
Whitewater rafting
Bungee jumping
Gorge swing
Fishing
Devils pool
Horse riding

Cape Town – 5 Nights

One of the most beautiful cities in the world, the sheer natural beauty of this South African capital will take your breath away. A coming-together of cultures, cuisines and landscapes, there’s nowhere quite like Cape Town, a singularly beautiful city crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park.

Day 10

This morning fly via Johannesburg to Cape Town, South Africa. Cape Town is a port city on South Africa’s southwest coast, on a peninsula beneath the imposing Table Mountain where slowly rotating cable cars climb to the mountain’s flat top. Mother Nature surpassed herself when crafting the Mother City. Whether jogging along Sea Point promenade, climbing up Lion’s Head in the dawn light, clambering over giant boulders at Sandy Bay or driving the amazing coastal roads down to Cape Point, it never fails to soar your spirits with her breathtakingly beautiful vistas. Eye See Africa will meet you at Cape Town’s International airport for your 20-minute transfer to the Cape Cadogan, an elegant hotel nestled in Gardens, a vibey and popular area of Cape Town. The original structure of Cape Cadogan dates back to the beginning of the 19th Century. You will feel the charm and character as soon as you arrive! After settling into your room the rest of the afternoon is at your own leisure. You can explore the vibrant city of Cape Town including nearby attractions like Long Street and the Company Gardens. Another option is to make your way to the Mount Nelson and enjoy their high tea for which they are famous for in Cape Town. Tonight we have booked dinner at one of our favourite restaurants Kloof Street House which is within walking distance from your hotel.

Day 11

Table Mountain is a flat-topped mountain forming a prominent landmark overlooking the city of Cape Town in South Africa. The Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is a state-of-the-art cable car transportation system offering visitors a five-minute scenic ride to the top of Table Mountain or alternatively hike to the top. The number of different views from Table Mountain are outstanding. Located between Bakoven and fashionable Clifton, Camps Bay Beach is the Blue Flag beauty among a string of trendy Atlantic seaboard beaches along this scenic stretch of coastline. After Table Mountain make your way down to the beach for a lunch at one of the many restaurants on the beachfront. After lunch may your way to Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden which is acclaimed as one of the great botanic gardens of the world. Few gardens can match the sheer grandeur of the setting of Kirstenbosch, against the eastern slopes of Cape Town’s Table Mountain. Time permitting the Company’s Garden in Cape Town is a great place in the late afternoon to spend an hour or two unwinding and exploring the natural, historical and architectural attractions. Located right at the heart of the Mother City, the garden is easily accessible and contains lots to see and do. This evening we will make a reservation have dinner at one of the many trendy restaurants in Bree Street close to your hotel.

Day 12

At the tip of the Cape Peninsula 60 km south-west of Cape Town, lies Cape Point, a nature reserve within the Table Mountain National Park. Your journey to this declared Natural World Heritage site will take you over the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive past the white beach of Noordhoek. Cape Point is a nature enthusiastic paradise. We will leave early not to miss out on any of the popular areas. We will have a quick coffee stop at The Noordhoek Farm Village just after Chapman’s Peak where you will find artisan breads and confectionery freshly baked daily at the Foodbarn Deli as well as an array of shops selling local craft. Hereafter we take the road to Cape Point following the magnificent coastline past Kommetjie, Soetwater, Witsand, Misty Cliffs and Scarborough and then inland for a few kilometers. The views at Cape Point are amazing, and during the winter months, you may also see Southern Right whales on the open sea. Hereafter visit a colony of endangered African penguins at Boulders Beach in Simons Town. (Look out for the Boulders Penguins sign) The penguins provide endless photo opportunities from Foxy Beach, where newly constructed boardwalks take visitors to within a few meters of the birds. On your way back have lunch in the fishing village of Kalk Bay, packed with antique stores, coffee shops, galleries, second hand bookstores and restaurants. I have not booked at a restaurant as I do not want you to be pressured by time. A good choice is Harbour House at the little harbour (also the restaurant downstairs is just as good and cheaper). Cape To Cuba and Olympia Cafe in Kalk Bay also good choices. Hereafter have a quick stop at Muizenberg Beach which with its colourful Victorian bathing boxes adding bold hues to the dramatic landscape that has been etched into the minds of beach-going South Africans for decades. It’s a Blue Flag Beach, which means it gets top marks for safety, recreational facilities and eco-consciousness. Time and again surfers will tell that Muizenberg was the place they first took to their boards and the beach’s Surfer’s Corner remains the place to experience a relatively gentle introduction to the sport.

Day 13

This morning you will be collected at 9h00 by our In-House sommelier Lara for your wine tour. It’s only a short scenic drive from Cape Town but the Cape Winelands feel like a different world. There are rolling vineyards, towering mountains and historic wine estates. Cape wine enjoys an international reputation and the winelands are home to most of South Africa’s premier wine estates. First visit Oom Samie se Winkel in the town of Stellenbosch which is the second oldest European settlement in the province after Cape Town. Undoubtedly the most scenically attractive and historically preserved town in Southern African history it reflects the neo-Dutch, and modern-Victorian architecture that encompasses simple lines, fine detail and elegant proportions. Oom Samie se Winkel, meaning “Uncle Sammy’s Shop”, is a Victorian style store that operates the same way now as it did back in the Victorian era. The store has been a Stellenbosch institution since 1904 and is now a national monument, offering all sorts of bric a brac and delightful foods and products. Hereafter our drive takes us over the scenic Helshoogte pass to the beautiful Franschhoek Valley. On your way stop for a wine tasting at Delaire Graff nestled between majestic mountains and overlooking the vineyards of Stellenbosch. Here striking Cape Dutch architecture meets African artefacts and styling, with original artworks from Laurence Graff’s personal collection on display through- out, representing some of South Africa’s finest contemporary artists. Lunch will be at La Petit Ferme, listed as one of the top 15 best value establishments in the world by Conde Nast Traveller. The cuisine incorporates international methods and flavours, made from the freshest locally sourced produce. This afternoon on your way back to Cape Town stop at Babylonstoren for a drink and stroll through the beautiful gardens. Babylonstoren is a Cape Dutch farm with vineyards and orchards surrounded by the dramatic mountains of the Drakenstein Valley. It has an exceptionally well preserved werf dating from 1690. A fruit and vegetable garden of botanical diversity supplies a remarkable restaurant.

Day 14

Your last day in Cape Town will be at your own leisure. There are so many options of things to do and the day will for sure be too short to do everything that is possible. Eye See Africa have a blog post of the most popular things to do in Cape Town and we will help you plan the day. Cape Town has many great beaches, from the popular Clifton and Camps Bay beaches to the long stretches of Noordhoek and Muizenberg. Another option is to do some last-minute shopping at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Nestled between Robben Island and Table Mountain in the heart of Cape Town’s working harbour, the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront has become South Africa’s most visited destination. Set against a backdrop of magnificent sea and mountain views it offers exciting shopping and entertainment options. Visitors to the Two Oceans Aquarium will enjoy a fascinating underwater world. The Maritime Museum focuses on the history of shipping from prehistoric times to the present day. Boat trips around the harbour and along the coast are also popular and helicopter flips provide a broader perspective of the Cape Peninsula. This evening we have booked dinner at FYN, one of South Africa’s top 10 restaurants.

Day 15

After breakfast we will do a last drive up Signal Hill to have a last view over the beautiful city before leaving for the airport and your flight homebound.

 

Accommodation 

Accommodation – Cape Cadogan – View Property
Meals – B&B

The Cape Cadogan is a stately double-storeyed Georgian and Victorian building that dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. It was originally a single story Georgian farmhouse which was ‘Victorianised’ in the later part of the century.

Activities Included
Full day Cape Point tour
Boulders Penguins
Table Mountain
Full day private wine tour

Activities Optional
See our list of “50 Things to do in Cape Town”