One of the most culturally and geographically diverse places on earth, South Africa, fondly known by locals as the 'Rainbow Nation', boasts 11 official languages, and its inhabitants are influenced by a fascinating mix of cultures. Discover the gourmet restaurants, impressive art scene, vibrant nightlife, and beautiful beaches of Cape Town. Sample some of the world's finest wines at the myriad wine estates dotting the Cape Winelands and visit one of the best land-based whale viewing towns in the world. Above all else, its untamed wilderness is astonishing: wildlife roams freely across massive, unfenced game reserves throughout South Africa. Most of you have been here before but it truly is "a world in one country".

Cape Town
Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town presents an alluring combination of drawcards. Incredible powdery white beaches, highly acclaimed wine routes, and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. This diverse metropolis is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and a spectacular, chic waterfront harbor.

On arrival in Cape Town, check into our hotel located right in the heart of Victoria and Alfred Waterfront.

Welcome Dinner and drumming at Gold – get into the African Vibe on night one with an authentic African feast, along with a show.  GOLD Restaurant is a vibrant pan-African experience offering a set Cape Malay and African menu, accompanied by live entertainment and djembe drumming, 7 nights a week. Operating from an old warehouse building and a modern function venue, GOLD offers visitors a sophisticated African experience.
Enjoy an award-winning,14-dish tasting menu inspired by ingredients and textures from all over the African continent. Be seduced by live dancing and singing to the rhythmic beating of African djembe drums. Feel part of their tribal community with some optional pre-dinner drumming under the guidance of an experienced facilitator.

Overnight: The PortsWood Hotel

Cape Side Cars Adventure – the fun way to explore the Cape Peninsula and voted number one activity now in Cape Town!
Experience the beauty of the Cape in a once-in-a-lifetime trip on an exotic classic from yesteryear. Cape Sidecar Adventures offers the unique experience of cruising around the Cape on a classic 750cc Sidecar.

Travel along the spectacular Atlantic seaboard to Noordhoek farm village – taste the best ice cream in Cape Town before heading back to Table Mountain.  Imagine 12 vintage side cars touring together – this is totally photo worthy as hundreds of people hoot, wave and photograph you as you pass – now you can be the celebrity!

Drop off at Table Mountain for your opportunity to travel up the cable car to the most famous Cape Town attraction, with some time to explore at the top of the mountain.

Table Mountain Cableway
High above Cape Town, the ascent through rocky cliffs reveals sweeping views of the city, coastline, and distant Robben Island. Opened in 1929, this iconic cableway whisks visitors to the summit of Table Mountain, where hiking trails wind through unique fynbos vegetation and scenic viewpoints. Photographic opportunities abound, with panoramic vistas and sunsets, and a diverse ecosystem.

After Table Mountain, we will set out on foot on a Culinary Journey of Discovery as we savor the different flavors of Cape Town – there is a reason that Cape Town was voted in the top culinary destinations in the world! From the historic Bo-kaap to the chic De Waterkant, this gourmet journey promises a tapestry of tastes that span centuries.  This walking tour is a perfect blend of culture, history, and gastronomy. Led by knowledgeable local guides, travelers will explore vibrant neighborhoods, indulge in traditional dishes, and enjoy craft drinks.

And then - we have the Biggest Treat for you… End your day with the incredible opportunity to meet Christo Brand, author and most inspiring storyteller, and former prison guard to Nelson Mandela. We have organized a private 90 minute meet with him for him to share his incredible stories with you.

Christo Brand is a South African former prison guard who was one of several who were responsible for guarding Nelson Mandela. He came to Robben Island, where Mandela was being held, in 1978 when he was 19 years old. In 1982 he was transferred along with Mandela to Pollsmoor Prison. Christo and Mandela developed a close friendship over the course of many years. He is the co-author of his book, Doing Life with Mandela: My Prisoner, My Friend (2014). Christo retired from Robben Island on 31st July 2018 to pursue his storytelling on a full-time basis.  Option to purchase a signed copy of his book.

Drop off back at the V&A waterfront where there are endless choices for dinner (if needed)

Overnight: The PortsWood Hotel

Ever wanted to kayak side by side with the penguins – here’s your opportunity! We set off on a 2-hour kayaking adventure to Boulders Beach, one of the most famous penguin colonies in Africa. What better way to see the penguins than in their own environment? Tide permitting, there will be time to step off and swim with them or spend time with them on the beach.

Then follow the peninsula round to Cape Point, the southernmost tip of the Peninsula, with its incredible cliff faces jutting out to sea – wild and beautiful, this is another must-see in Cape Town.  Cape Point is a spectacular sight, covered in endemic fynbos and home to breathtaking bays, beaches and rolling green hills and valleys, just 60km outside of Cape Town. Cape Point falls within the Cape Floral Region, a World Heritage Site. The Cape Floral Region is one of the richest areas for plants in the world – it is home to nearly 20% of Africa’s flora.

We return via the other side of the coastline along the famous Chapman’s Peak drive, visiting Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens – in magnificent bloom during springtime and the best place to see the Famous proteas of the Cape. Kirstenbosch is proclaimed 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. Walk along the famous Tree Canopy Walkway, a curved steel and timber bridge that winds and dips its way through and over the trees of the Arboretum. Inspired by a snake skeleton and informally called ‘The Boomslang’ (meaning tree snake), The Walkway takes the visitor from the forest floor into and through the trees and bursts out above the canopy, giving spectacular panoramic vistas of the surrounding mountains, Gardens and City.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens is a botanical paradise nestled at the eastern foot of Table Mountain. Spanning over 36 hectares, it showcases a stunning array of indigenous plants, including a vast collection of fynbos, cycads, and proteas. Visitors can explore its well-maintained pathways, which lead to various themed gardens, including a fragrance garden and a medicinal garden.

Return to the hotel. The evening is at leisure to explore the bustling V&A waterfront with countless venues both day and night.

Overnight: The PortsWood Hotel

oday we spend the morning visiting some incredible community projects with Uthando who practice the true form of “Ubuntu”.  Uthando (Love) South Africa is an award-winning Fair Trade in Tourism certified nonprofit organization that is creating a unique link between tourism and community development projects that create meaningful, authentic, engaging, non-invasive and respectful visits.   These bring enormous benefits to the local communities being visited.

The tours take place in the expansive “townships” located on the eastern part of the city known as the Cape Flats. Our expert guides provide an in-depth overview to the history of South Africa and particularly the role that apartheid and institutionalized discrimination and inequality played in creating these communities.  Today we have a special visit to a local kindergarten that helps take children off the streets to give them a chance at life.   As an AFS Joy Surprise, let’s bring some USA goodies to leave a meaningful impact with these kids.

Then we depart to the incredible Winelands of South Africa, travelling through Stellenbosch before reaching the stunning Franschhoek Valley (the French corner) where many of the French Huguenots settled. Surrounded by mountains and Vineyards this village is a true gem.

We will stop for some wine tastings on the way to Franschhoek.

Franschhoek - Set just over an hour from Cape Town, within the inspiring landscapes of the Cape Winelands, Franschhoek is a heritage town and a world-renowned food and wine destination. The estates here attract wine experts from around the globe with their Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Cap Classique sparkling wine. Five-star restaurants alongside the cellars are surrounded by the same jaw-dropping valley scenes that have brought artists and writers to the area for centuries. The Cape Dutch manor houses, fascinating museums, and charming boutiques make Franschhoek a wonderful place to visit in winter.

Overnight: Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa

This morning, we will visit the incredible Farm Sanctuary to discover the story of Pigcasso, the Painting pig. Spend time with the rescue animals. It’s a wonderful place. Then we will visit the Dog Shelter next door for the chance to play and give the shelter dogs a walk. (No, you can’t bring one home.)

Later, join us for a meaningful lunch activity as we come together to prepare a warm, nourishing soup for the community soup kitchen in Elgin Valley. This hands-on experience allows us to give back, connecting with others while helping provide a comforting meal to those in need. The unique backdrop for this activity is on one of the well-known wine farms in Elgin Valley, where you will enjoy a delightful wine tastings during the process of creating the tastiest soup for donation to the community. Includes a light lunch of quiches, salads, breads, and more, along with 5 wine tastings.

Elgin Valley, located in the Western Cape Province of South Africa tretches between the Kogelberg Nature Reserve and the Groenland Winery. It is one of South Africa’s top apple producers. The undulating landscape is characterized by deep valleys, forests, mountain streams, lakes, rivers, and lush hills covered with vineyards and apple orchards.

Transfer to the beautiful town of Hermanus, the whale capital of South Africa. Check into the Windsor, a favorite AFS hotel in SA.

Hermanus - Situated just 140 kilometres from Cape Town and built between the beautiful shores of Walker Bay, Hermanus has grown from a small seaside resort town to become arguably the best-known place for whale watching in the world. This town is also famed for its natural scenic beauty, featuring long stretches of pristine beaches. An excellent variety of restaurants, cafes and bars are also on offer. Visitors can explore the Old Harbour Museum, which is comprised of the charming fisherman’s village, the old harbour, and the Whale House Museum; hike through the nearby Fernkloof Nature Reserve, and sample an array of top-quality wine along the famous Hermanus Wine Route.

Overnight: Windsor Hotel Hermanus

Hermanus is known to be one of the best land-based whale viewing sites in the world. Each year, between July and November, the whales come out to play and we are blessed with incredible sightings. They travel from the South Pole up to mate and give birth as Walker Bay provides them with a safe haven, giving us the opportunity to be part of this yearly migration. Whale season is full on for us.

9 AM We board the boat to go out into the bay for a 2-hour trip to view the Southern Right and Brydes whales as well as dolphins, seals and penguins.

SOUTHERN RIGHT CHARTERS is a leading boat-based whale watching operator. The company is environmentally sensitive and as a licensed permit holder operates under the motto "observing not disturbing."  The company has been in operation since 1999 and is located in Hermanus, regarded as one of the best whale-watching areas in the world. This up, close and personal encounter with the gentle giants of the ocean promises to be an ‘experience to be treasured.’  Encounter Southern Right, Humpback & Bryde’s whales.

Dolphins, Seals, and a large variety of marine birds including the African penguin.

On return, we enjoy lunch at Bientangs Cave on the Rocks – imagine sipping wine and eating seafood with the whales playing in front of you.

Bientang's Cave Seafood Restaurant & Destination venue is the most unique restaurant setting in the world.  Created out of a traditional cave previously inhabited by a Koi Strandloper of the same name, the restaurant spills out onto the rocks of Walker Bay in Hermanus, where Whale Watching is the preferred local pastime. The rustic charm and natural ambiance of the cave and its surroundings are a delight to all.  With an abundance of sea and bird life as well as Dassies for company, this exquisite setting is heightened by the freshest seafood and an award-winning wine list (Diners Club Diamond Award).

Afternoon at leisure to explore this quaint town on foot. Discover the arts and crafts, markets, coffee shops and 10km of cliff paths to walk along. This is a stunning nature walk for your panoramic photos along the ocean.

Overnight: Windsor Hotel Hermanus

Depart Hermanus after breakfast heading along the East coast towards Mossel Bay. We will pass incredible mountain scenery with farmlands and small villages.  Arrive Botlierskop for lunch and check in.

Botlierskop Private Game Reserve - Sandwiched between the spectacular Outeniqua Mountains and the sparkling Indian Ocean, the Botlierskop Private Game Reserve is set in the heart of the Garden Route. This luxury safari destination features an array of wonderful activities to look forward to including day and night game drives, horse riding excursions through lush woodlands and diverse fynbos, and spotting a variety of wildlife including the rare black impala, elephant, lion, buffalo, giraffe, zebra, hippo, and over 200 bird species. Visitors can also look forward to luxury accommodation with private wooden decks offering breathtaking views of the beautiful Moordkuil River. An abundance of wildlife roams free and might be spotted from your tent.

This afternoon you will depart on your first Game Drive, traversing the reserve in open 4x4 vehicles in search of the Big 5 (elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion , leopard). This beautiful reserve is surrounded by mountains and showcases the magnificent floral kingdom of the Western Cape. Sundowner drives offer breathtaking sunset vistas, culminating in a scenic drinks stop with premium beverages and gourmet snacks before returning. Led by expert guides, these intimate excursions blend thrill and peace, providing close encounters with nature’s majesty

Stop for bush drinks along the route before returning for dinner in the Fireplace Restaurant. You will love these huge open hearths where they light fires that warm the soul.

Overnight: Botlierskop Tented Lodge

Experience the Thrilling World of Vet Safaris at Botlierskop Private Game Reserve & Villas
This morning, you will get to experience true conservation in this incredible, once-in-a-lifetime immersive experience we have organized for you. You will go out accompanying licensed wildlife vet, Dr Willem Burger on a Veterinary Safari and observe and assist professionals administering medical care and routine procedures on the wildlife at Botlierskop. Depart into the heart of the reserve where the helicopters will dart a rhino or elephant to perform routine procedures.

Types of Vet Safaris:  our experience is to be determined one week prior to our arrival.  Elephant Vet Safari: Witness the administration of contraception vaccines, conduct health inspections, and help collect blood and biological samples for scientific research.
Rhino Vet Safari: Contribute to anti-poaching efforts by assisting in implanting microchips into rhino horns and skin, perform biological sampling for DNA identification, and assist in ear-notching for visual identification.
Lion Vet Safari: Participate in replacing or attaching satellite tracking collars, gather DNA for genetic biodiversity research, and collect biological samples to maintain healthy wildlife populations.

Whether you’re a wildlife enthusiast, a conservation advocate, or simply curious about the world of wildlife medicine, this promises an unforgettable journey filled with adventure, learning, and meaningful contributions to the well-being of African wildlife.  If you have a passion for wildlife and conservation, this is as exciting as it gets.
Includes AWCF short presentation, snacks and drinks, a video of the experience, assisting the wildlife vet with the procedure and possible wildlife viewing opportunities on route to procedure.  AWCF and Botlierskop saw the dire need for very specific rescue and rehabilitation missions. The result of this alliance is to enhance conservation in Africa with specific attention given to special-needs conservation projects. All donations, as well as funds generated from Veterinary Safari procedures done at Botlierskop, will be channeled to the AWCF – African Wildlife Conservation Foundation, projects fund.

Vision & Mission - To actively take action and create awareness for wildlife conservation in Africa, with a specific focus on conservation and veterinary mercy missions, critical care and rehabilitation especially for endangered & threatened species.

Return to the lodge for lunch.
This afternoon, we set out on a 3-hour Game Drive into the reserve.
This evening, we will enjoy a traditional “braai” dinner with drumming... A barbecue feast you'll never forget.

Optionals:  Fijnebos Spa
Indulge in ultimate relaxation with Spa Treatments at Botlierskop’s Fijnebos Spa, a luxurious haven for adults at the Tented Lodge. Enjoy African-themed treatments like the African Calabash, Rungu, or Bamboo massages, or choose signature options like the Elephant Mud Mask and African Zen Escape, using premium oils and balms. Explore body therapies such as the Miracle Repair SOS or Intensive Detox, and facials like the Brightening or CBD Facial with Nano-needling. Unwind in new facilities, including the Hammam and Rasul Treatment rooms for detoxifying rituals, plus a Steam Room, Sauna, and heated pool. Expert therapists tailor treatments to rejuvenate body and mind.

Horseback Safaris for a scenic perspective.  Choose from 1-hour or 2-hour rides for experienced or inexperienced riders, exploring majestic mountain valleys and fynbos with panoramic views and possible wildlife sightings—never guaranteed. Guided by experts through scenic trails, showcasing rhinos, antelopes, and the Outeniqua Mountains. For advanced equestrians, the 3.5-hour outrides challenge experienced riders with thrilling terrain, thick bushes, and game viewing at working speed.  Requiring long pants, closed shoes, and optional helmets, all rides create lasting memories amidst the reserve’s lush landscapes.

Overnight: Botlierskop Tented Lodge

Sunrise drives awaken your senses with golden light over the Outeniqua Mountains. These experiences create lasting memories amidst the reserve’s lush landscapes, inviting you to connect with Africa’s wild heart.   We drive five hours on scenic roads back to Cape Town. Please book your flights home after 5 PM out of CPT or add a night here.