Day 1 - South Africa - Soweto Tour

After a morning tour of Soweto, we visit Lesedi cultural village, a multi-cultural village home to the Basotho, Pedi, Xhosa, Ndebele and Zulu tribes. We see their homes, crafts, and watch their traditional dancing and singing to the beat of drums. For lunch we enjoy a feast of traditional dishes from around the African continent and then browse in the markets. In the afternoon we make our way to Gold Reef City. Built around the original number 14 Shaft of Crown Mines, Gold Reef City recreates the city of Johannesburg as it was during the gold rush days of the last century.

Day 1 - South Africa - Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind was inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1999. This unique destination casts light on the evolution of the human being over the past 3.5 million years; his way of life and the animals with which he lived. The Cradle of Humankind offers a unique natural, cultural and historical experience. We spend the day exploring the various caves and learn about the evolution of humankind. There are plenty of other activities for you to participate in including game drives, mountain bike trails, craft rambles and adventure activities.

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Days 2 > 3 - South Africa - Blyde River Canyon

The Blyde River is the third largest in the world and one of South Africa’s scenic wonders. You will see wildlife including mountain reedbuck, dassies, hippo, crocodile, impala, kudu, blue wildebeest, waterbuck and zebra. We spend the day exploring the area’s unique geological features from lookouts, vehicle and on foot. Bourke’s Luck Potholes, one of the area's highlights, are very impressive rock formations that were shaped millions of years ago by erosion. A network of pathways and footbridges allows us to explore the potholes, some of which are 6 metres deep.

Days 4 > 5 - South Africa - Kruger National Park

The Kruger National park is an outstanding Game Reserve, offering a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa and the world. The Kruger, over two million hectares in size, boasts a brilliant infrastructure of roads, waterholes, hides, picnic sites and rest camps to ensure one gains maximum exposure to the fauna and flora. Using the Baobab 4x4s, we explore the reserve on morning and afternoon game drives, after which we enjoy a magical evening at Jock Safari lodge, a luxury camp incorporating elements of indigenous Zulu and Shangaan cultures. 

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Days 6 > 7 - Mozambique - Transfrontier Park

Following the path of the Limpopo River towards Mapai, next we venture into the heart of the wilderness. The area we traverse is what forms the Mozambique side of the Transfrontier Peace Park; a joint initiative between Mozambique, South Africa and Zimbabwe. The day is spent exploring both on foot and in vehicle, all the while enjoying the serenity the wilderness has to offer. If you are after a true adventure and untouched Africa, few areas compare with this. The park offers a mix of cultural experiences; traditional healers explaining their trade, story-telling, foods, dance, music, handicraft and art, all for you to explore and enjoy.

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Days 8 >10 - Mozambique - Bazaruto Archipelago

The small chain of Bazaruto Archipelago islands consist of four main islands all covered by large freshwater lakes and sand dunes and offering a spectacular eco-system untouched by development. Bazaruto Island, part of the National Park and one of the largest conservation areas in the Indian Ocean is our first stop of the day. The protected reefs and beaches support dolphin, dugong, gamefish, giant lobster as well as several species of marine turtle. Spend your day relaxing on the crystal white beaches or alternatively, enjoy the fantastic scuba diving, deep-sea fishing and sailing facilities. 

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Days 11>12 - Mozambique - Praia de Barra

Passing through Inhambane; one of Mozambique’s oldest and most charming towns is characterised by its extensive coconut palms, cashew trees and picturesque dhows. The beautifully secluded and untouched beaches of Barra, set in one of the most picturesque areas of Mozambique, are home to Barra Lodge where you will be staying. Spectacular views of pristine beaches and the crystal clear waters of the Indian Ocean are a feature of this accommodation. You can choose from a selection of activities; including snorkelling, scuba diving, catamaran yacht, charter boat fishing, fly fishing, dhow trips, mangrove boat trips, horse riding and Inhambane city sight seeing trips.

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Days 13>14 - Mozambique - Exploring Maputo

Highlights of the Maputo province include old qaint towns; some of Africa’s best diving facilities, beautiful beaches and well-stocked reserves. Exploring the capital Maputo, formerly named Lourenco Marques is how we spend the first day of the trip. The city is charming is constantly bustling with activity. Its wide avenues lined with red acacia and flowering trees offer you innumerable historical, cultural and scenic spots. In the morning we visit the Museum of the Revolution where the story of the struggle against Portuguese colonialism is explained. You will have ample time in the afternoon to explore the numerous street markets in and around the town.

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Days 15>17 - South Africa - St Lucia Wetlands Park

Sodwana Bay is home to magnificent coral reefs within a marine reserve stretching 150 kilometres along the coast and forming the Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park; inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1999. The waters come alive with ragged-tooth sharks as well as loggerhead and leatherback turtles depending on the season and they all enjoy the protection of the bay during their breeding season. Two days spent in this wonderful water world affords you plenty of opportunity to enjoy the numerous activities offered in the area; from hiking and horse riding, to snorkelling and diving.

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Day 18 - South Africa - Zululands Adventure

Shaka Rocks, on the North Natal Coast, is a beautiful overnight location. Sitting atop a picturesque bay, the camp is located deep in the heart of Zululand. We visit Shakaland, a traditional Zulu ‘Umuzi’, or homestead. You will feel the pulsating rhythm of the mysterious and magical Africa, as you re-live the excitement and romance of the days of Shaka, King of the Zulus. Experience the sight of assegaai-wielding warriors, share the fascinating secrets of the Sangomas and witness traditional customs, such as spear making, tribal dancing and beer-drinking ceremonies.

Days 15>20 - Lesotho - Maluti Mountains Pony Trekking

The Drakensberg area is inhabited by the Basotho people. The landscape is wild and rugged and the Basotho pony is the ideal option to navigate around this terrain. The isolated worlds of the Maluti Mountains are a truly fantastic landmark. In summer the mountains are carpeted in wild flowers, whilst in winter the mountain peaks are covered in snow. The trails traverse spectacular moutain passes and some of Lesotho's highest waterfalls exploring Bushman paintings and experiencing the Basotho culture.

Days 15>18 - Railway, Durban to Pretoria

You have the option to return to Pretoria on the Pride of Africa, one of the worlds most luxurious trains.  The optional 3 day return journey to Pretoria offers the opportunity of enjoying fine cuisine in five-star luxury whilst taking in some of the most varied African scenery imaginable. A game drive in Mkhaya Game Reserve and a game drive in Malelane followed by a boma dinner is included in the journey.  Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a by-gone era and experience the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion.

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Day 14, 18, 19 or 20 - International or Domestic flight

• Johannesburg International Airport is served by most African carriers and a wide selection of international airlines. 
• Maputo International Airport is served by some African carriers and a few international airlines.
• Durban International Airport is served by some African carriers and a few international airlines. 

Da Gama Option B

Day 1 - South Africa - Soweto Tour

After a morning tour of Soweto, we visit Lesedi cultural village, a multi-cultural village home to the Basotho, Pedi, Xhosa, Ndebele and Zulu tribes. We will see their homes, crafts, and watch their traditional dancing and singing to the beat of drums. For lunch we will enjoy a feast of traditional dishes from around the African continent and then browse in the markets. In the afternoon we will make our way to Gold Reef City. Built around the original number 14 Shaft of Crown Mines, Gold Reef City recreates the city of Johannesburg as it was during the gold rush days of the last century.


 

Day 1 - South Africa - Cradle of Humankind

The Cradle of Humankind was inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1999. This unique destination casts light on the evolution of the human being over the past 3.5 million years; his way of life and the animals with which he lived. The Cradle of Humankind offers a unique natural, cultural and historical experience. We spend the day exploring the various caves and learn about the evolution of humankind. There are plenty of other activities for you to participate in including game drives, mountain bike trails, craft rambles and adventure activities.

Click on icons   

Days 2 > 3 - South Africa - St Lucia Wetlands Park

Sodwana Bay is home to magnificent coral reefs within a marine reserve stretching 150 kilometres along the coast and forming the Greater St Lucia Wetlands Park; inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1999. The waters come alive with ragged-tooth sharks as well as loggerhead and leatherback turtles depending on the season and they all enjoy the protection of the bay during their breeding season. Two days spent in this wonderful water world affords you plenty of opportunity to enjoy the numerous activities offered in the area; from hiking and horse riding, to snorkelling and diving.

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Days 4 > 5 - South Africa - Drakensberg Mountains

The Drakensberg Mountains, or uKhahlamba (the barrier of Spears), is a 200 kilometre long mountainous wonderland, named a World Heritage site in 2000. In the morning we drive up the Sani Pass, the highest and undoubtedly one of the most revered and panoramic passes in Southern Africa. This is 4x4 terrain. The 6 kilometre route from the South African border post, takes you on an ascent of 1000 metres to the highest pub in Africa. In the afternoon we hike to the top of the ‘Amphitheatre’ with wonderful views, whilst short hikes along the Mount Aux Sources River take you to the base of the Amphitheatre. 

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Days 6 > 7 - South Africa - Port St. Johns

We spend two days exploring Port St Johns, a small coastal town in South Africa known as the jewel of the Wild Coast. The Wild Coast is a stretch of 250 kilometers of coast, which gained its name by its inaccessibility and reputation for ship-crushing waves. Port St Johns has escaped industrial development and is renowned instead for its unparalleled natural beauty and relaxed lifestyle. Port St Johns offers a unique blend of cultural richness. The Xhosa culture, both traditional and modern, is always apparent. You will see a sangoma (traditional healer) strolling along in all his finery, hear the thumping sound of kwaito music from a furniture store, and dodge the ever-present voracious mini-bus taxies.

We spend two days at the Shamwari Game Reserve where you have the opportunity to enjoy game drives, wilderness trails or relax and unwind at the luxury spas. We also visit the Born Free Foundation Animal Rescue and Education Centre, where you can see some of the big cats which were rescued from situations where they were in danger. The Born Free Foundation is at the forefront of drawing the public's attention to the plight of wild animals, confined in an impoverished captive environment.

Days 10>11 - South Africa - Kayaking the Garden Route

The coastline between Storms River Mouth and Mossel Bay boasts some of South Africa's most beautiful and unspoilt beaches, craggy cliffs and seemingly endless oceans. We visit selected adventure destinations where you can enjoy exciting watersports facilities including surfing, sailing, waterskiing, angling, and most notably kayaking and canoeing. The ideal playground for the kayaker and canoeist, the Garden Route is dotted with lakes, coves and cliffs, sleepy lagoons and wild oceans. Enjoy watching dolphins play in the waves, seals ply the ocean and gentle white horses ripple across the sea.

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Discover the grandeur of the Karoo Heartland, with its vast plains, majestic mountains and sweeping skies. The picturesque towns are steeped in history and reflect the bygone era of the English and Dutch Settlers. We pass through fruit growing, wine producing and ostrich farming vicinities. The ever changing colour of the majestic mountains, scenic passes and rivers will offer you an unforgettable adventure. We visit a vineyard, where a variety of dry wines, fortified wines and brandies are produced. World class port and South Africa’s renowned White Muskadel are produced here.

Days 13>15 - South Africa - The Cape Wine Route

Stellenbosch is one of the oldest and one of the most scenic and historically-preserved towns in South Africa. Our day includes strolling down beautifully restored streets in the historical town centre and visits to museums and monuments. We join the winemaker on a tour of his cellar followed by a visit the historical village of Paarl, famous for its breathtaking scenery and many cycling and nature trails. We visit Paarl Mountain, a huge granite rock formed by three rounded outcrops that make up Paarl Mountain, the second largest granite outcrop in the world. 

Days 16>18 - South Africa - Exploring Cape Town

Our day in Cape Town begins with a cable car journey to the top of Table Mountain, one of Africa's best known landmarks. A leisurely drive to the Cape of Good Hope takes us through the scenic village of Hout Bay, and awe inspiring Chapman’s Peak. We also visit Robben Island, inscribed as a World Heritage site in 1999, exploring the buildings which witnessed the triumph of democracy and freedom over oppression and racism. Our final visit is to the Cape Floral Region, also inscribed as a World Heritage site in 2004. The Cape Floral Region covers 553,000 hectares and is one of the richest areas for plants in the world. It represents less than 0.5% of the area of Africa but is home to 20% of the continent’s flora. 

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Days 19>24 - Lesotho - Maluti Mountains Pony Trekking

The Drakensberg area is inhabited by the Basotho people. The landscape is wild and rugged and the Basotho pony is the ideal option to navigate around this terrain. The isolated worlds of the Maluti Mountains are a truly fantastic landmark. In summer the mountains are carpeted in wild flowers, whilst in winter the mountain peaks are covered in snow. The trails traverse spectacular moutain passes and some of Lesotho's highest waterfalls exploring Bushman paintings and experiencing the Basotho culture.

Day 19>21 - Railway, Cape Town to Pretoria

You have the option to return to Pretoria on the Pride of Africa, one of the worlds most luxurious trains. The optional 3 day return journey to Pretoria offers the opportunity of enjoying fine cuisine in five-star luxury whilst taking in some of the most varied African scenery imaginable. A stop-off at the quaint village of Matjiesfontein and a tour of the Big Hole and City of Kimberley is included in the journey. Recapture the romance and atmosphere of a by-gone era and experience the magic and mystery of Africa in a relaxed and elegant fashion.

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Days 19, 21 or 25 - International or Domestic flight

• Johannesburg International Airport is served by most African carriers and a wide selection of international airlines. 
• Cape Town International Airport is served by most African carriers and a wide selection of international airlines.
• Durban International Airport is served by some African carriers and a few international airlines.