Cape Town is abundantly blessed with natural beauty, culture, fine restaurants, wonderful and welcoming people, history and hospitality. Table Mountain, the wineries of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, the Garden Route, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, the Cape of Good Hope, the city boasts an embarrassment of natural riches.
So it’s little wonder the City was again named the Greatest City on Earth in the 2023 Telegraph Travel Awards, beating out such illustrious destinations as Kyoto, Sydney, Rio de Janeiro, and Rome. Not to be outdone by one province, South Africa was also voted Country of the Year by the Telegraph’s readers.
In honor of Cape Town, and South Africa, we’ve put together a list of the very best safaris that feature Cape Town on the itinerary. Click on the Safari links for more information, more pictures from the various destinations, and all the support you need to make your dream trip to the Mother City a reality.
Embark on a captivating journey commencing in the vibrant heart of Cape Town, where you'll immerse yourself on the bustling streets, indulge in world-class culinary delights and wines, and engage with the warm-hearted locals. Your home for the upcoming days is the acclaimed One & Only Cape Town, promising exceptional amenities, lavish accommodations, and genuine hospitality.
Following your exploration of Cape Town's scenic coastline and charming wine country, the adventure takes a thrilling turn as you leave for an authentic African safari. You'll be staying in two renowned private reserves nestled within the greater Kruger National Park: Sabi Sands and Timbavati. While both reserves are famed for the majestic Big Five, Sabi Sands stands out for its exceptional big cat sightings, while Timbavati offers a unique chance to encounter rare white lions. Your safari days will unfold through immersive open vehicle game drives and guided bush walks, bringing you intimately close to Africa's captivating wildlife.
Relax and unwind on your intimate and tailored safari experience at Sabi Sabi Little Bush, before transitioning to Timbavati to continue your safari adventure at Ngala Tented Safari Camp. Both lodges epitomize ultra-luxury, featuring world-class amenities and unmatched service, making them the ultimate choice for travelers seeking the height of excellence.
Take a journey enriched by the essence of the Cape's iconic scenery, where opulent accommodations form a backdrop to your adventure. Drawing from past client experiences, this tour offers the flexibility to personalize your stay, in line with your preferences and budget. Our travel experts are at your service to assist with alternative options, and custom your trip to meet your every desire. Be captivated by the majesty of a Big 5 safari, revel in the captivating fauna and flora of the garden route and enjoy a myriad of unique experiences that are the hallmarks of this unforgettable journey.
Start your journey in the vibrant city of Port Elizabeth, a haven of relaxation adorned with numerous beaches and lively boardwalks. Your thrilling safari adventure kicks off with a roughly 2-hour journey to the pristine Kwandwe, a malaria-free Big 5 Game Reserve. Continuing along the mesmerizing Garden Route, you'll reach the captivating coastal gem of Knysna, a city teeming with adventure amidst lush indigenous forests, serene lakes, and inviting golden beaches. Knysna's allure extends to romantic escapades, thrilling exploits, and a tantalizing array of exquisite cuisine. Next on your itinerary is Oudtshoorn, famed for its ostrich farms, meerkats, and the enchanting Cango Caves.
Then you'll make your way to Cape Town, a tapestry of adventure, breathtaking landscapes, renowned Winelands, and rich cultural experiences. A leisurely stroll from your hotel, the V&A Waterfront awaits, boasting a vibrant market, captivating aquarium, upscale shopping mall, historical walking tours, and diverse dining options. Enriched by our knowledgeable guides, passionate about showcasing this magnificent country, your guided tour unveils the hidden treasures that South Africa holds. Born and raised in Cape Town, many of our guides infuse their personal connection into the journey, sharing insights and hidden gems that await discovery.
Whether you're a solo explorer, a group of friends, or a family seeking unforgettable experiences, this tour caters to all. Our guides possess an innate talent for engaging children, weaving intriguing facts and captivating activities that ensure their fascination throughout the journey.
3. 7 Day Timeless Kruger and Cape Town Safari
Embark on an extraordinary 7-day tour that immerses you in two iconic destinations of South Africa —our Travel experts are at your service for more details.
Your journey unfolds with an awe-inspiring Kapama bush safari, a harmonious blend of opulent accommodations, exclusive off-road game drives, invigorating walking safaris within the realm of the Big Five, and unique experiences like bush sleepouts that unveil the authentic essence of an African safari.
Departing from the expanse of the greater Kruger National Park, your adventure seamlessly transitions to the vibrant cosmopolitan embrace of Cape Town. Here, you'll be enveloped in a tapestry of rich heritage, picturesque landscapes, encounters with unique wildlife, and the indulgence of exceptional Cape cuisine.
Ideal for solo explorers, couples, and families seeking an affordable safari retreat, this tour promises an unforgettable journey.
Embark on a journey that unveils the perfect fusion of a Big 5 safari and the vibrant essence of Cape Town. Your first three days unfold at the lavish Tintswalo Safari Lodge, nestled within the pristine 23,000-hectare Manyeleti Game Reserve. Sharing an unfenced boundary with the renowned Kruger National Park, Tintswalo delivers unparalleled game viewing experiences—be it from the comfort of open vehicle game drives or the thrill of exploring the African bush on foot.
In the realm of the Manyeleti Game Reserve, where each safari lodge operates on its own privately owned, concession-based land, a sense of exclusivity is assured. With only seven lodges within the reserve and over 200 kilometers of gravel roads, expect to revel in the tranquility of this remarkable game reserve.
Following the exhilaration of your safari, your journey leads to on to Cape Town. Here, you'll delight in a three-day sojourn at the esteemed Tintswalo Atlantic lodge, a stunning hotel nestled in the foothills of the ocean-facing Table Mountain National Park. Cape Town's allure lies in its diverse cultural tapestry, historic landmarks, captivating museums, pristine beaches, majestic mountains, and picturesque vineyards.
Ideal for solo adventurers, couples seeking romance, and families in pursuit of an exceptional experience, this 6-day tour presents the quintessential exploration of South Africa's unparalleled offerings.
Embark on an African odyssey that centers around a four-day immersive safari in the enchanting Madikwe Game Reserve. As a malaria-free sanctuary, Madikwe may be lesser-known, yet it is celebrated as one of Africa's finest conservation areas. With the lavish Madikwe Safari Lodge as your temporary home, engage in morning and afternoon game drives that offer a glimpse of the iconic Big 5 and the rare African Wild Dog, thriving within this awe-inspiring reserve.
Following exhilarating game encounters, you'll transition to Cape Town, where you'll enjoy the awesome range of lively restaurants and cafes, natural splendor and world famous hospitality. The chic apartment-style retreat, More Quarters, becomes your sanctuary. Immerse yourself in the panoramic view from Table Mountain's summit or explore the sweeping vineyard valleys of the Cape Winelands. Plunge into the adrenaline packed adventure of shark cage diving or savor the stunning vistas of the Cape Peninsula.
For those seeking distinctive encounters, consider a visit to the charming, cobbled streets of Bo Kaap, adorned with vibrant 17th-century houses. Or go kayaking at Simons Town's naval port, interact with local South Africans, relish in native cuisine, or embark on a township journey, where you'll meet inspiring individuals and learn the art of crafting an African meal.
This 7-day escapade seamlessly weaves dynamic city life with the allure of encountering the Big 5. Ideal for couples, adventurous individuals, and families: Children of all ages are embraced at Madikwe Safari Lodge, with a dedicated children's program designed to entertain them.
