Christmas in South Africa
Christmas in South Africa
$6406
Christmas in South Africa
15 Days Starting in Johannesburg, South Africa and ending in Cape Town, South Africa
Visiting: Johannesburg, Mpumalanga, Panorama Route, Greater Kruger National Park, Gqeberha, Knysna, Cape Town, Cape Peninsula, Stellenbosch
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2397
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
12 - 28
Age range:
12-99
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Experience the magic of Christmas in South Africa with a captivating journey through its diverse landscapes and vibrant culture. Begin your adventure in Johannesburg, exploring the Apartheid Museum before heading to the scenic Mpumalanga Panorama Route. Marvel at the natural wonders of God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes, and enjoy thrilling game drives in the Greater Kruger National Park. Discover the beauty of the Garden Route, with stops at Tsitsikamma National Park and the charming town of Knysna. In Cape Town, ascend Table Mountain, explore the Cape Peninsula, and visit the famous Winelands for a festive Christmas Day filled with exquisite wines and stunning views. Conclude your journey with leisure time in Cape Town, soaking in the city's vibrant atmosphere and indulging in traditional dishes at the V&A Waterfront. This tour promises an unforgettable festive season amidst South Africa's breathtaking scenery and rich cultural heritage.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 - 2 : Days 1-2: Fly To Johannesburg
Location: Johannesburg
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Upon your arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you have the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 3: Mpumalanga
Location: Mpumalanga
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Following breakfast, explore the Apartheid Museum before embarking on a journey to the Mpumalanga Panorama Route region. This enchanting and scenic area, embraced by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, waterfalls, and canyons, unfolds in lush greenery during the summer season. Serving as a splendid gateway to the renowned Kruger National Park, the region awaits your check-in, leaving the remainder of the day for you to relax at your leisure.
Day 4: Panorama Route
Location: Panorama Route
Accommodation Name: private game lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take a ride in the Graskop Gorge Lift, offering stunning views of the forest canopy. Continue your journey to God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes, a natural marvel featuring swirling pools and unique rock formations. After Three Rondavels, check in at the private game in time to partake in a dusk safari for the chance to encounter local wildlife.
Day 5: Greater Kruger National Park
Location: Greater Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: private game lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Spend today on thrilling game drives, the primary means of exploring the park, providing a close encounter with the animals. At dinner engage in an African drumming class where you'll not only master traditional beats but also delve into the rich cultural history, discovering how stories, songs, and traditions have been passed down through the universal language of rhythm and dance.
Day 6: Greater Kruger National Park
Location: Greater Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: private game lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Another day of opportunities for spotting 'The Big 5', as your expert ranger and tracker lead the way. Adept at spotting wildlife and sharing insights about the animals and their habitats, they ensure memorable and informative game drives, while contributing to the park's overall conservation efforts.
Day 7: Fly To Gqeberha
Location: Gqeberha
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Transfer back to Johannesburg and fly to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). On arrival, transfer to your hotel in time for dinner.
Day 8: Garden Route
Location: Knysna
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Set out this morning on your journey to Knysna, with a captivating stop at Oudebosch Protea Farm, where you'll discover fascinating insights into the country's national flower. Continue to Tsitsikamma National Park, a protected expanse celebrated for its breath-taking coastal and forest scenery. As you travel further south, you'll reach the charming town of Knysna, renowned for its scenic lagoon, the iconic Knysna Heads, and a lively waterfront that adds vibrancy to its picturesque surroundings.
Day 9: Discover Knysna
Location: Knysna
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The standout experience today is The Featherbed Eco Experience, an enchanting journey that commences with a picturesque boat cruise across the Knysna Lagoon. Following this, a guided tractor ride elevates you to the summit of the western head, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the lagoon, ocean, and mountains. A leisurely nature walk through the coastal forest unveils the unique flora and fauna of the area, culminating in a delightful lunch amid this beautiful setting. Continue to Oudtshoorn where you will have the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 10: Oudtshoorn To Cape Town
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Explore Oudtshoorn, where your exploration begins with the captivating Cango Caves, an underground marvel adorned with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Subsequently, venture to an ostrich farm for a tractor tour and indulge in a delectable lunch showcasing ostrich delicacies, before continuing to Cape Town.
Day 11: Cape Town
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Your adventures today take you around the highlights of Cape Town! Cruise past landmarks such as the Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens, and Houses of Parliament before ascending Table Mountain (weather permitting) via the cableway. Lunch will be in the colourful neighbourhood, Bo-Kaap, where you get to help prepare delicious Cape cuisine, enjoying the warm spices and unique flavours.
Day 12: Cape Peninsula
Location: Cape Peninsula
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today starts with a sea island cruise to witness playful seals in their natural habitat. If the weather permits, embark on a breath-taking drive along Chapman's Peak, revealing sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the rugged beauty of Cape Point, the meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, and enjoy a visit to Boulders Beach, renowned for its resident African penguin colony, offering a close-up observation of these charming creatures. Celebrate tonight with an unforgettable dinner at Gold Restaurant, an immersive and authentic African experience.
Day 13: The Winelands
Location: Stellenbosch
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Merry Christmas!! This year your Christmas Day will be filled with sunshine, gorgeous scenery and great wine, as you explore the renowned Winelands. Commencing with a drive through Stellenbosch before heading to Franschhoek. At Boschendal Wine Estate, take in the scenic vineyards and delve into its rich history, tasting exquisite wines. Stop for a delectable Christmas lunch at Rickety Bridge, where magnificent views enhance your experience.
Day 14: Cape Town At Leisure
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Enjoy Boxing day at leisure in Cape Town, with time to shop or explore with endless options to keep you busy in this wonderful city. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the vibrant V&A Waterfront, dining on a variety of traditional dishes in a relaxed setting.
Day 15: Depart Cape Town
Location: Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast
Depart to the airport for your flight back to the UK arriving the next day.
What's Included
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Airport Transfer
Upon arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.
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Accommodation
Accommodation is provided throughout the tour at various locations including Johannesburg, Mpumalanga, Greater Kruger National Park, Gqeberha, Knysna, and Cape Town.
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Meals
Meals are included throughout the tour, with breakfast, lunch, and dinner provided on most days.
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Guided Tours
Guided tours and experiences are included, such as the Apartheid Museum visit, Panorama Route exploration, game drives in Greater Kruger National Park, and the Featherbed Eco Experience in Knysna.
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Cultural Experiences
Cultural experiences such as an African drumming class and a cooking class in Bo-Kaap are included.
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Wine Tasting
Wine tasting at Boschendal Wine Estate in the Winelands is included.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights to and from South Africa are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is not included and is recommended for all travelers.
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Personal Expenses
Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and optional activities are not included.
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Visa Fees
Visa fees for entry into South Africa are not included.
Mode of Transport
Transportation includes flights to Johannesburg and Gqeberha, as well as transfers to various locations such as Mpumalanga, Greater Kruger National Park, and Cape Town.
Accommodation
DaVinci Hotel and Suites
This Sandton hotel is located at Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City with its shopping mall and restaurants right on the doorstep. It offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms and a full English breakfast.
Angels View Graskop
A Beautiful hotel that is ideally located along the Drakensberg escarpment, with the Panorama route in close proximity.
Shiduli Private Game Lodge
Nestled along the borders of the Karongwe Game Reserve, Shiduli Private Game Lodge epitomizes a harmonious blend of sophistication and charm, while radiating an unparalleled sense of warmth and welcoming hospitality.
The Paxton
This hotel is located close to the city centre and harbour, offering magnificent views of Algoa Bay and beautiful beaches.
Protea by Marriott Hotel Knysna Quays
This property has a spectacular view of the coastal town of Knysna, and is a popular choice along the Garden Route. With scenic surroundings and set on the Knysna Quays waterfront, this hotels offers a wonderful stay.
Protea by Marriott Oudtshoorn Riempie Estate
THE Protea by Marriott Oudtshoorn Riempie Estate is situated in a farm-like setting and is only 20 minutes away from the Cango Caves. Enjoy the best that Oudtshoorn has to offer from a cosy and tranquil setting. The hotel offers an excellent restaurant and an array of facilities including golf, tennis, squash, a fitness center, and lawn bowling amenities nearby,
The Portswood
Ideally located right at the entrance, within easy walking distance to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. The lobby and restaurant have been built around a 300 year old well and offers guests a very comfortable stay.
Experiences
African Drums
Participate in an African drum experience that is a journey into the heart of cultural traditions. Guided by skilled drummers, you'll explore the intricacies of hand placement and strikes, creating a collective synergy of beats that echo ancient rhythms. It's not just a drumming session; it's a celebration of heritage, where you become part of a rhythmic conversation.
Visit an ostrich farm
Known as the "Ostrich Capital of the World." Enjoy a guided tour that allows you to interact with and learn about these birds. Experience feeding sessions, learning more about these graceful birds as this farm showcases the historical significance of ostrich feathers. Enjoy lunch here, tasting many of its delicacies.
Observe the penguins
Observe the penguins at Boulders Beach, as they waddle along the soft, sandy shores, surrounded by weathered granite boulders that give the beach its name. Witness their comical antics, in this idyllic setting, nestled against the rugged beauty of the Western Cape, allowing for observation of these endearing birds in their natural habitat.
Check out our Q&As
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What activities are included in the Greater Kruger National Park visit?
During the visit to Greater Kruger National Park, you will participate in thrilling game drives, which are the primary means of exploring the park and provide close encounters with the animals. Additionally, there is an African drumming class where you can learn traditional beats and explore the cultural history of rhythm and dance.
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What can I expect to see on the Panorama Route?
On the Panorama Route, you will experience stunning views from the Graskop Gorge Lift, visit God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes with their unique rock formations, and see the Three Rondavels. The day concludes with a dusk safari at a private game reserve.
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What is the Featherbed Eco Experience in Knysna?
The Featherbed Eco Experience in Knysna includes a picturesque boat cruise across the Knysna Lagoon, a guided tractor ride to the summit of the western head for breathtaking views, and a leisurely nature walk through the coastal forest, ending with a delightful lunch.
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What highlights are included in the Cape Town tour?
In Cape Town, you will cruise past landmarks such as the Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens, and Houses of Parliament. You will also ascend Table Mountain via the cableway, weather permitting, and enjoy a lunch in the Bo-Kaap neighborhood where you can help prepare Cape cuisine.
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What experiences are offered on the Cape Peninsula tour?
The Cape Peninsula tour includes a sea island cruise to see seals, a drive along Chapman's Peak with views of the Atlantic Ocean, exploration of Cape Point, and a visit to Boulders Beach to see the African penguin colony. The day ends with a dinner at Gold Restaurant, offering an immersive African experience.
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How is Christmas Day celebrated on this tour?
Christmas Day is celebrated in the Winelands, with a drive through Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. You will visit Boschendal Wine Estate for wine tasting and enjoy a Christmas lunch at Rickety Bridge, surrounded by magnificent views.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
If, after our confirmation invoice has been issued, you wish to change your travel arrangements in any way, we will endeavour to make these changes, but it may not always be possible. Any changes to confirmed bookings need to be sent to us in writing via your travel agent. Please refer to our booking conditions for further information and fees.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Your Final Travel Documents are usually sent to you 2-3 weeks prior to your departure. Your travel pack will include your tour itinerary, hotel details, flight e-tickets and a travel guide. If you have booked with a travel agent, your tickets will be dispatched to your travel agent unless we have been otherwise informed.
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Will I be travelling with passengers from other countries?
Our passengers generally enjoy the mixture of British, Australian and American clients on tour. Occasionally we are joined by English-speaking passengers from other countries.
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What is 'Happy to Share'?
Customers booking to travel solo can choose our ‘Happy to Share’ option, which may enable them to share a twin room with other solo customers of the same gender who also request Happy to Share, thus avoiding the need to pay single room supplements. Note that ‘Happy to Share’ requests can be received when you make your booking with us but will not be confirmed until your final payment due date. If a share partner is found, the Single Supplement will be removed from your booking. If a share partner is not found, the Single Supplement will remain and is payable with your final balance in line with our normal booking conditions. Either way, our Operations Team will contact you around 75 days before departure to let you know whether a share partner has been found or not. We regret that Happy to Share requests cannot be accepted within 75 days of departure. Wendy Wu Tours reserves the right to change or withdraw this arrangement at any time.
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Do you allow children on your tours?
We allow children 12 years and over on our group tours. We recommend that families with children of any age take advantage of our private or tailormade tours. This will give you more flexibility while on tour.
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Low Deposit
Wendy Wu requires a minimum deposit of 350 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 75 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of wendy wu charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 60% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
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