Johannesburg, South Africa | 26°S 28°E

Vacayans from all over the world will make their way to Johannesburg today. We’ll overnight here in Joburg at the InterContinental Johannesburg, located only a short walk away from the Arrivals Hall.

Depending on when you arrive, today may provide an opportunity to explore a bit on your own. If you find yourself with free time, you simply must visit the iconic Apartheid Museum, which offers a powerful and moving glimpse into South Africa’s tumultuous past. Marvel at the displays of the country’s long fight for freedom and democracy, and feel the weight of history settle upon your shoulders as you bear witness to the struggles and triumphs of the people of this great nation.

But if history is not your cup of tea, perhaps a leisurely stroll through the sprawling Johannesburg Botanical Gardens is more your speed. Take in the vibrant colors and intoxicating scents of the flora and fauna that call this oasis home, and bask in the tranquillity of nature as you wander along the winding paths.

If you’re feeling more adventurous, a visit to the Lion Park is a great way to spend a couple hours. Here, you can get up close and personal with some of Africa’s most majestic creatures, and even take a walk with lion cubs!

And last but certainly not least, no trip to Johannesburg would be complete without a visit to the bustling and vibrant neighborhood of Soweto. This historic township played a pivotal role in the struggle against apartheid, and is now a thriving hub of culture, art, and music. Spend the afternoon immersing yourself in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this colorful community, and experience the heart and soul of South Africa.

Meals: Welcome Drink Included. On-Your-Own Dining.

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Today, we fly from Johannesburg to Victoria Falls! Victoria Falls is a breathtaking destination that offers you an unforgettable experience. As you approach the falls, you’ll hear the roaring sound of water cascading down the cliff, and as you get closer, you’ll see the magnificent sight of the misty spray rising high into the air. The view is simply awe-inspiring, and the feeling of being in the presence of such natural beauty is humbling. Over our time here, you’ll have the opportunity to explore the surrounding rainforest and take a guided tour of the falls. Whether you’re a nature lover, adventure seeker, or just looking for a stunning backdrop for your Insta photos, Victoria Falls will leave you breathless.

For the next two nights, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge will be our home.

Either today or tomorrow, each guest will have the chance to enjoy a helicopter ride over the Falls, and nothing beats seeing Victoria Falls from above.

This afternoon features a Sundowner Cruise on the Zambezi River. The Zambezi River cruise is a superb way to relax and enjoy the beauty of the river. If we’re lucky, you’ll have the opportunity to see a variety of game, including hippo, crocodile, elephant, and sometimes even rhino in their home environment, as well as enjoy the many different bird species found in this area. The cruise includes finger snacks, beer, wine, champagne, and soft drinks. And assuming the skies are clear, we’re hoping for a truly spectacular sunset to end our second day together.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

Today, plan to experience a guided tour of the Falls. And half of our group will be enjoying their helicopter ride, as well, today. The afternoon is a truly free time to simply enjoy the magnificence of everything that surrounds us.

At 4:30pm, we’ll depart our hotel to head to The Lookout Café, where dinner will be served. Dining at The Lookout Café in Zimbabwe is an unforgettable experience. Located on the edge of the Batoka Gorge and overlooking the Zambezi River, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

The décor is rustic and charming, with wooden tables and chairs, and a thatched roof that blends seamlessly into the natural surroundings. Our set menu features a range of dishes that are inspired by local and international cuisine, with a focus on fresh and locally sourced ingredients. But the real highlight of dining at The Lookout Café is the spectacular view.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa

Today, we say goodbye to Zimbabwe and head back to beautiful South Africa. Sabi Sabi is a wildlife-rich private reserve in the Greater Kruger area with four luxury lodges, each with its own character and style. The unique character of each of the four lodges is reflected in their menus and varied dining settings.

The magical bush setting, the locally sourced ingredients, the talented chefs, and the sprinkle of Sabi Sabi flavor blend together to create unforgettable dining experiences.

But the food becomes almost an afterthought when you compare it to what lies ahead. This afternoon, we’ll have our first Game Drive!

As you embark on your first drive at the stunning Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, you can’t help but feel a sense of wonder and excitement. No life experiences can truly prepare you for the breath-taking landscapes that will surround you. Majestic acacia trees stretch towards the endless blue sky, their leaves swaying in the gentle breeze. The scent of wildflowers and grasses tickles your nostrils, while the chirping of birds fills your ears. As your knowledgeable guide navigates the rugged terrain, you catch your first glimpse of the magnificent wildlife that roams freely here. A herd of majestic elephants gracefully moves through the savannah, while a tower of giraffes nibbles on the treetops. In the distance, a pride of lions basks in the warm sun, their roars echoing across the plains. With every turn of the trail, your heart races as you eagerly anticipate what other wondrous sights await you on this unforgettable safari adventure.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch (dependent on arrival time), & Dinner

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa

Today features two Game Drives – each taking you further and further into the savannah.

Our morning starts before sunrise. The crisp morning air tingles your senses as you eagerly anticipate the thrilling wildlife sightings that await you. The sun rises above the horizon casting a warm golden glow across the African savannah. You can hear the sounds of the bush awakening as birds sing their melodic tunes and antelope scamper through the grasslands. As you traverse the rugged terrain, keep a keen eye out for the majestic lions, the elusive leopards, and the magnificent elephants, all of which roam this magnificent wilderness. Our guides expertly navigate the terrain, using their extensive knowledge of the area to track the animals, and share their wisdom with you, revealing fascinating insights into the intricate balance of nature. You can’t help but feel a sense of awe and wonder as you witness the majesty of Africa’s wildlife up close and personal, leaving an indelible mark on your soul.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa

We’re back at it again, with two additional Game Drives today – one at sunrise and one at sunset.

Have you felt it yet? That stirring in your soul that awakens the deepest parts of one’s being? If not, today’s definitely the day! The rugged terrain, abundant wildlife, and the unbridled beauty of everything we’re experiencing should ignite a sense of awe and wonder that’s unmatched by any other earthly experience. The thrill of encountering majestic lions, graceful giraffes, towering elephants, and other exotic creatures in their natural habitat is a truly magical experience that brings your senses to life with the sounds, sights, and smells of the untamed world around you, transporting you to a place where the connection to the earth is palpable. In this wild environment, your soul is free to soar, unencumbered by the pressures of modern life, allowing a deep and profound sense of peace and clarity to take root.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Sabi Sabi Game Reserve, South Africa

As the golden sun rises one last time for you over these vast plains, you’ll feel the excitement in your veins as we climb into our open-top safari vehicles one last time, ready to embark on our final journey through this untamed wilderness.

Take in this endless sky one last time as it transforms into a breathtaking canvas of oranges, pinks, and purples, a stunning display that will leave you inspired. Breathe in your good fortune as this experience leaves you feeling humbled and grateful for the opportunity to witness such raw and unbridled beauty – memories that you’ll carry with you for the rest of your life.

A post-Game Drive breakfast will give you another chance to share the endless stories of the past several days with fellow Vacayans. Shortly after breakfast, we’ll leave Sabi Sabi Game Reserve for our flight to Cape Town.

Cape Town is one of the world’s most beautiful cities. It’s situated amidst majestic mountains and is surrounded by pristine white beaches. Often called the “cosmopolitan hub of Africa,” it’s home to a rich cultural and historical heritage, vibrant restaurants and nightlife, and a multitude of activities – from extreme sports to world-class shopping.

Tonight (and for the next four nights after), The Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, a 5-star beauty, will be our home.

This iconic pink lady, which has been captivating visitors since 1899, is the beating heart of Cape Town. Nestled between the slopes of Table Mountain and the vibrant city, when you step through our gates, you enter a world of relaxation and glamour. Take a timeless tea on our terrace and stroll through storied gardens, or starbathe beneath clear skies with a cocktail in hand. With pioneering gastronomy with local roots and close collaboration with South Africa’s creative community, “The Nellie” has a vintage heart and innovative spirit.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cape Town, South Africa

Today, we travel to Cape Point for a full-day exploring this beautiful area.

You’ll travel via the 12 Apostles and Hout Bay, as well as Chapman’s Peak (subject to road maintenance), one of the region’s most dramatic mountain drives offering amazing panoramic views over the city and its surroundings.

We’ll stop in Hout Bay for a boat cruise to the seal island, then continue to Simon’s Town where you’ll visit a colony of African Penguins in their natural environment at Boulders Beach.

Lunch will be served at Black Marlin Restaurant, with a 3-course set menu and your choice of 1 soft drink or 1 beer/wine and water.

After lunch, continue to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, established in 1939 to protect 7,750 hectares of indigenous flora and fauna. The reserve comes to an end at majestic Cape Point. Rugged rocks and sheer cliffs towering more than 200 meters above the sea and cutting deep into the ocean provide a spectacular background for the park’s rich bio-diversity. Cape Point falls within the southern section of the Table Mountain National Park.

Tonight, we’ll have dinner at Pigalle Restaurant, with a 3-course set menu, including your choice of 2 soft drinks or 2 beers, and water.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, & Dinner

Cape Town, South Africa

Ok, wine lovers, get ready! Today, we’re heading to Stellenbosh and Franschhoek!

Known worldwide for its quality wines and the spectacular beauty of the surroundings, Stellenbosch is home to one of the most prestigious old Wine Regions in the world. You’ll be mesmerized by breath-taking scenery and warm South African hospitality. Here, you’ll enjoy the juice of the vine in an historic setting. Founded in 1679, Stellenbosch is the oldest town in South Africa next to Cape Town. Walking through the streets of Stellenbosch, you’ll feel the history, as if strolling in days of old. The town is packed with many historic buildings dating back to the early 1700s.

After our visit to Stellenbosch, we’ll continue on to Franschhoek, where we’ll visit another winery and then have a 3-course lunch at Haute Cabriere, where you’ll have your choice of 1 soft drink or 1 wine/beer, and water.

After lunch, you’ll have free time to explore Franschhoek and its centuries-old vineyards and Cape Dutch architecture. Trails wind through flowers and wildlife at Mont Rochelle Nature Reserve to views over Franschhoek Valley. The Huguenot Memorial Museum and neighbouring monument honor the area’s French settlers, who arrived in the 17th and 18th centuries.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Lunch

Cape Town, South Africa

You’ve seen SO MUCH this trip, but this day will be like no other. Why is that? We’re glad you asked!

Embark on an exhilarating adventure and immerse yourself in the depths of the ocean’s majesty, as you descend into the crystal-clear waters off the captivating coast of South Africa. Feel the adrenaline coursing through your veins as you come face-to-face with one of the ocean’s most magnificent predators – the mighty great white shark!

With bated breath, witness the unbelievable power and grace of these magnificent creatures as they glide effortlessly through the water. As you venture into their mesmerizing marine world, feel the thrill of the unknown and the excitement of the unexpected.

This once-in-a-lifetime experience will leave you spellbound as you watch these majestic creatures roam in their natural habitat. With every passing moment, you’ll be captivated by the sheer beauty and raw power of the ocean’s most iconic apex predator.

As the rays of the sun dance through the water, casting a shimmering glow on the vibrant underwater world, you’ll feel the rush of the ocean’s energy and the wonder of nature’s untamed beauty. So come, take the plunge, and discover the magic of great white shark cage diving off the breathtaking coast of South Africa.

Of course, if you don’t want to get into the cage, which is secured to the side of our tour boat, you are free to stay safely on deck and watch all that unfolds. If you decide to get into the cage (and we certainly hope you will), only an ability to hold your breath for a few seconds is required to slip below the water’s surface to come face-to-face with these amazing creatures.

DISCLAIMER: While our tour operators can’t guarantee we’ll see sharks, the days of not encountering them are extremely limited. If the sharks don’t come to play, you’ll have the chance to see other marine wildlife, including seals and sea birds.   

Meals Included: Breakfast

Cape Town, South Africa

Today, we’ll visit Robben Island, a place of profound historical significance and breathtaking natural beauty. As you step off the boat onto this remote island off the coast of Cape Town, you will immediately be struck by the stunning vistas that surround you. The waters of the Atlantic Ocean stretch out as far as the eye can see, while rugged cliffs and rolling hillsides covered in lush vegetation rise up to meet the sky.

But it is the rich and complex history of this place that truly sets it apart. For centuries, Robben Island was a place of exile, a site where political prisoners were sent to be isolated and silenced. It was here that Nelson Mandela, one of the greatest statesmen of the 20th century, was imprisoned for 18 years. As you tour the island’s historic sites, including the cell where Mandela was held, you will gain a deep and meaningful understanding of the struggles and triumphs of the South African people.

As you leave Robben Island and make your way back to Cape Town, you’ll carry with you a newfound appreciation for the strength and resilience of the human spirit, as well as a sense of awe for the natural beauty of this remarkable place.

This is our final night together and we’ll all dine at Gold Restaurant, where you’ll enjoy a drumming session and a 3-course set menu, including your choice of 2 soft drinks or 2 beers, and water.

Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner

Cape Town, South Africa

Today, we say goodbye to each other. While most of you will head home, we know others will continue their explorations of the region.

And no matter whether you stay or go, this trip is guaranteed to change you in profound ways. Of course, our 12 days together will provide you with the opportunity to experience some of the most beautiful and unique places Africa has to offer – from the stunning Table Mountain in Cape Town and the majestic wildlife of Kruger National Park to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls; but, it’s the laughter, the conversations, and the shared experiences that ultimately create the lasting memories that strengthen your connections with our community. If you weren’t already, you are now a Vacayan, part of a vast interconnected web of global adventurers. Welcome to the family.

Meals Included: Breakfast