12 Days South Africa Family Holiday Tour Package

Duration: 12 Days / 11 Nights
Priced From: $7,855 pp dbl. occ.
Dates: Dec

South Africa offers not only first-rate wildlife viewing but the pleasures of the modern, cosmopolitan cities of Johannesburg and Cape Town. Head out one day to explore towering mountains, rocky cliffs over crashing waters, expansive bushland and magnificent waterfalls; another day, ride a historic steam train or visit a museum devoted to toys.

Days 1-2: USA/Cape Town, South Africa

Arrive in Cape Town by overnight flight and transfer to your hotel.Cape Grace D

Day 3: Cape Town

Drive through the suburb of Tamboerskloof ("Drummers' Ravine") to Table Mountain where, weather permitting, you ascend to the top of the mountain by cable car. Then at Scratch Patch on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, have fun "scratching" for your favorite gemstones from the thousands of polished stones that cover the floor. After lunch, visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, where the ocean seems to come alive and the mysteries of the deep are revealed in resplendent color. Observe the marine life that includes more than 300 species. Younger children can hear stories, watch puppet shows and enjoy face painting.Cape Grace B L D

Day 4: Cape Town

Depart on a full day of adventure to Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, including Seal Island and a visit to a colony of endangered African penguins. Visit the Warrior Toy Museum, which has a permanent exhibition of toys, dolls, Meccano model cars, boats and trains.Cape Grace B L

Day 5: Cape Town/George/Knysna

Fly to George on the Garden Route and transfer to Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa in Knysna. Part old world village and part bustling tourist town, it is impossible to explore all in one day. Horseback riding for all skill levels is on course for this afternoon, and after an early dinner, the children embark on a movie adventure in the resort.Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa B D

Day 6: Knysna

Today is another exciting day filled with activities for children and adults alike. Ride the Outeniqua Choo-Tjoe, a historic steam train, through breathtaking landscapes with stunning views of lush mountain tops and wide river plains with crystal clear water.

Walk above the clouds on the canopy walkway at Birds of Eden. The unique five-acre dome (the world's largest) spans a gorge filled with indigenous forest. The sanctuary has its own mysterious ruin, which incorporates a walk-behind waterfall. Another feature is its amphitheater, which has the capacity to seat more than 200 visitors. Approximately 2,000 birds of more than 100 species reside in the aviary.

Then visit Monkeyland in Plettenberg Bay, a modern primate sanctuary established in a pristine natural high canopy forest. The animals who live here are not caged and are free to move about the forest. The primates are not found on predetermined map points as they would be in a zoo, and visitors need to search for them. The reward is seeing them free and in the wild.Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa B L

Day 7: Knysna

Younger children embark on a "field of dreams" of outdoor activities including Frisbee, soccer and an obstacle course. The older children depart on a guided hike through ancient indigenous forests and then canoe down the pristine Noetzie River. Later, all family members gather at Noetzie beach for a lovely picnic lunch.Pezula Resort Hotel & Spa B L D

Day 8: Knysna/George/Johannesburg/Kruger National Park

Fly to the world-renowned Kruger National Park and Lukimbi Safari Lodge, located in the Mpumalanga province, an area steeped in history. Lukimbi is a luxury safari lodge with exclusive use of 37,000 acres of prime game and bushveld wilderness. The open architecture of this stunning lodge makes you aware of the sounds and movements of the animals outside and offers thrilling views and spectacular sunsets. The 16 spacious and luxurious suites are beautifully decorated with local art and elegant furnishings, each with an outside and inside shower and separate bath, and with fabulous views. The private, secluded deck is a wonderful place to relax and watch the animals coming down to drink from the Lwakahle River. Children of all ages are welcome at Lukimbi, where activities include an entertainment center with games, jungle gyms, face painting and bush Olympics.Lukimbi Safari Lodge B L D

Days 9-10: Kruger National Park

You have two full days to explore this area and search for Africa's "Big Five" - lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Morning and afternoon game drives as well as bush walks are offered. End each day with a dip in the pool and a lavish meal prepared by the resident chef, accompanied by a sampling of vintage wines and spirits.Lukimbi Safari Lodge B L D

Day 11: Kruger National Park/Johannesburg/USA or Canada

Transfer to the airport and relax in a dayroom at the airport hotel before tonight's international flight.B

Day 12: USA or Canada

Today you arrive in the USA or Canada.

12/09