Experience South Africa at its very best. Discover Cape Town, Kruger National Park, Johannesburg, Cape Winelands, the Garden Route, Blyde River Canyon and so much more. Get up close to the iconic wildlife. Be awestruck by the African spirit, natural beauty, rich history and dazzling diversity of South Africa - from the untamed coastline to rolling wine estates to the remote savannah homelands of the most incredible African wildlife. Tour Stellenbosch, Great Karoo, Cape Point, Hermanus, Mossel Bay, Paarl, Langkloof, Oudtshoorn, Knysna and Eastern Cape. Experience the instantly recognisable and our special hidden gems. Explore the unimaginable wealth of wildlife, landscapes and panoramas. History is all around you as we discover the Rainbow Nation’s remarkable cultures, stories, art, architecture and cuisine. Discover the real South Africa with HolidayMax’s immersive escorted touring. Themes include: Africa, Africa Touring, Western Cape, Gauteng, Departs from Cape Town, Luxury Coach, Returns from Johannesburg CBD. + Show more

Package Includes

International flights: Australia to Cape Town and Johannesburg to Australia (premium airline)
Travel by modern large coach
Tour host and guide
6 Nights Cape Town hotel (quality 4 Star)
4 Nights Kruger Safari Lodge
2 Nights Johannesburg Hotel
1 Night Hermanus Hotel
1 Night Mossel Bay Hotel
1 Night Tsitsikamma Hotel
1 Night Eastern Cape Hotel
1 Night Oudtshoorn Hotel
13 breakfasts, 3 lunches, 9 dinners
Flight from Cape Town to Johannesburg
Meet and Greet Personalised Transfers

Highlights

Cape Town (South Africa) Kruger National Park (South Africa) Garden Route (South Africa) Blyde River Canyon (South Africa) Stellenbosch (South Africa) Johannesburg (South Africa) Cape Winelands (South Africa) Hermanus (South Africa) Knysna (South Africa) Paarl (South Africa) Botlierskop Private Game Reserve (South Africa) Mossel Bay (South Africa) Swellendam (South Africa) Tsitsikamma National Park (South Africa) Oudtshoorn (South Africa) Karoo (South Africa) Langkloof (South Africa) George (South Africa) Eastern Cape (South Africa) Albertinia (South Africa) Fruit Route: Route 62 (South Africa)

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Descriptions

Amazing Experiences:

• Experience Cape Town, Kruger National Park, Wildlife Safari Tours,

Johannesburg, Garden Route, Cape Winelands and Panorama Route

• Enjoy free flexi-days to explore Cape Town, Johannesburg and

Kruger National Park

• Cape Town flexi-tour, walking tours, harbour cruise

• African Wildlife Safari Tours (iconic African animals in Kruger and

Garden Route)

• Visit Stellenbosch, Pinnacle Point Caves, Cape Winelands,

Mossel Bay, Oudtshoorn, Storms River Mouth, Blyde River Canyon,

Three Rondavels viewpoint, Bourke's Luck Potholes

• Free time in Stellenbosch, Hermanus, Swellendam, Knysna,

Tsitsikamma National Park, Spice Route in Cape Winelands

• 3 Days in a traditional Kruger Safari Lodge (full day game drive)

• Garden Route coastal scenic touring

• Panorama Route stops at Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels

viewpoint and Bourke's Luck Potholes

• Cape Town welcome dinner

• Wine tastings and lunch at a Cape Winelands winery

• Aloe Vera Farm Tour with Aloe tea tastings

• Visit Botlierskop Private Game Reserve (safari game drive)

• Guided tour of Klein Karoo ostrich farm with traditional lunch

• Traditional Karoo Dinner

• Heritage walking tour of the Cango Caves

• Lunch in the Robertson Wine Region

• Cheese and wine tasting at a Paarl winery (Cape Wineland)

• Farewell dinner in Johannesburg

• Plus more immersive excursions and experiences

DAY 1 Depart Australia for South Africa

Today we depart for Cape Town, South Africa. Fly on a premium award-winning airline like Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, Etihad Airways, Emirates, Qantas or British Airways (subject to availability). Enjoy the attentive cabin service, regular meals and onboard entertainment system.

DAY 2 Arrive in Cape Town

Welcome to Africa! You will be personally met at Cape Town Airport by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to your central Cape Town hotel. You can relax and use the rest of the day to explore your hotel and its facilities, perhaps take a stroll around this beautiful city.

Meet and Greet Personalised Arrival Transfer, Overnight Cape Town hotel

DAY 3 Tour Cape Town

Your first two full days in Cape Town are flexi-tours, so you can tour at your own pace, visiting places of most interest to you. Relax into Cape Town time with a choice of included touring options to suit your mood.

There's nowhere quite like Cape Town, a spectacularly beautiful city crowned by the dramatic Table Mountain. It is a city defined by its remarkable geographical setting, eclectic mix of vibrant cultures, rich history, diverse cuisines and cool modern vibe. If cities were romances, Cape Town would be the love-at-first-sight kind. Slowly rotating cable cars ascend towards Table Mountain’s flat summit, towering above the city’s contrasting streetscapes; from the historic Victoria & Albert waterfront promenades to the pastel coloured facades of Bo-Kaap. African spirit abounds in this alluring cosmopolitan city enriched by a wealth of historical sites, spirited café culture and lively nightlife; that is now the epicentre of Africa’s thriving creative arts scene. Each day in the ‘Mother City’ will see you unearthing new treasures that will have you falling in love all over again.

Your flexi-tour includes 3 circular driving tours, stay on for the whole tour enjoying our guide’s entertaining commentary or get-off at any one of 27 incredible stops and re-join our next circular tour bus at your leisure. It also includes our “Historic City” and “Bo-Kaap” walking tours, a magnificent Harbour and Seal cruise plus a special Sunset tour.

Experience Table Mountain and the impressive Victoria & Albert (V&A) harbour that feels like the beating heart of Cape Town with its bustling food markets and chic African craft markets. Discover Cape Town’s rich urban texture in its diverse architecture; a collage of Georgian, Cape Dutch, Victorian and twentieth century. The place where Europe, Asia and Africa meet in intriguing markets, alluring alleyways and lavish buildings. Explore the centre of Cape Town (known as the City Bowl due to its amphitheatre shape nestled in the shadow of Table Mountain) and the distinctive Bo Kaap neighbourhood (streets lined with ultra-colourful, historic homes). Among the captivating draw cards here are the famous Company’s Gardens, the Parliament, and many of Cape Town’s major museums eager to disclose the past stories held within. Relax at Camps Bay, one of the most stunning beaches and most affluent neighbourhoods in Cape Town. Perhaps see the African penguins on the beach, experience an epic sunset, take in the thriving arts and cultural scene or wander the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. There is so much to see and do in spectacularly beautiful Cape Town. The city tour takes you through the City Bowl, to the Table Mountain cable car and along the magnificent city beaches. The Peninsular tour takes you behind Table Mountain, around the National Park, to the Hout Bay peninsular and along the extraordinary Atlantic Coast. The wine route takes you to the historic Constantia wine region. Find your own piece of captivating Cape Town.

All 3 circular hop-on hop-off tours, two walking tours and a cruise are included – so tour as much as you like or simply take it easy.

Coach Tour, Overnight Cape Town Hotel

DAY 4 Explore Cape Town & Cruise

Make the most of your second flexi-tour today to discover more of Cape Town. This is a great day to take your scenic Harbour and Seal cruise. Discover the legends and stories of the V&A, learn about Cape Town's colourful nautical history and see the playful cape fur seals close up as we cruise through the bustling port waters.

Perhaps find your favourite city beach, like Clifton, Sea Port or Camps Bay. Maybe explore the splendid wineries of the Constantia wine region stretching up the south-east slopes of the Table Mountain National Park or take your Sunset tour to along the coast to panoramic Signal Hill for an inspirational Atlantic Ocean sunset experience.

All 3 circular hop-on hop-off tours, two walking tours and a cruise are included.

Coach Tour, Cruise, Overnight Cape Town Hotel

DAY 5 Cape Town Walking Tour & Welcome Dinner

Today meetup with your tour leader and get to know the rest of your fellow travellers on our fully escorted Grand South Africa Safari Tour adventure. Discuss the special activities that lie in store over the next two weeks.

We start our exhilarating journey through the pulsating heart of breathtaking South Africa with a guided walking and driving tour to experience another side of Cape Town. Bear witness to the history of apartheid at District Six before enjoying a taste of local culture in colourful Bo Kaap, the Cape Malay Quarter. See the Castle of Good Hope which was once a Dutch stronghold, St George’s Mall - a bustling cobbled pedestrian street lined with intriguing shops, stalls and historic buildings. Wander through the Company’s Gardens and marvel at panoramic Signal Hill.

In the evening we all enjoy a special African welcome dinner together with a choice of traditional local dishes and contemporary cuisine.

Meet and Greet Personalised Transfer, Dinner, Overnight Cape Town Hotel

DAY 6 Flexi-Free Day (Optional Cape Point Tour)

Choose how you’d like to experience more of the Cape Town region with a selection of activities on offer. Spend your free day discovering incredible experiences like Robben Island, Shark Cage Diving, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, the ‘townships’, Two Oceans Aquarium or perhaps take the optional guided tour to spectacular Cape Peninsula and the infamous Cape of Good Hope. A dramatically breathtaking rocky promontory laced with wild beaches and tranquil tidal pools brimming with biodiversity, the Cape Peninsula inspires nature lovers from the peaks of Table Mountain to the theatrical landscapes of Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. Its treacherous swells have been braved by maritime navigators since the 15th century, with numerous historic wrecks lying off the coast. The Cape Peninsula tour features a glorious scenic drive to explore Cape Point, a visit to the African Penguins at Boulders Beach and a stop to admire Kalk Bay.

Today is a free flexi-day so you have the choice of activity to suit your mood. Enjoy more time to explore Cape Town or take the optional guided tour of Cape Peninsula ($195). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Cape Town Hotel

DAY 7 Cape Town to Cape Winelands to Stellenbosch to Hermanus

Today we depart Cape Town to discover the stunning Cape Winelands with a scenic drive through the Cape Wine Region. A patchwork of rolling vineyards and charming country towns, the Cape Winelands are one of the most breathtakingly beautiful wine regions in the world. Traditional Cape Dutch architecture adorns the sun dappled hillsides, while the surrounding mountains create a mesmerising backdrop and provide an ideal microclimate for cultivating the robust reds and Méthode Cap Classique sparkling the region is renowned for.

Our first stop is Stellenbosch founded in 1679; a thoroughly charming university town nestled amidst the mountainous nature reserves of Jonkershoek and Simonsberg and surrounded by the lush rolling countryside and acclaimed wineries of the Cape Winelands. Enjoy free time to explore its shady oak-lined streets offering some of the finest examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture in the country – discover the laid-back coffee shops, boutiques and art galleries. Delight in a delicious lunch served amongst the winding vineyards at a local winery where you have the chance to taste South Africa's signature wine, Pinotage. Learn all about Cape district wines and the wine-making process from a local wine expert and bask in the experience of an additional wine tasting tour this afternoon.

Then relax back on your coach as you admire the views on a coastal drive to Hermanus. Once a small fishing village, Hermanus’ reputation as one of the best land-based whale watching destinations on earth has transformed this quaint town into a buzzing seaside hub. With Kleinriviersberg providing a breathtaking backdrop; shops, restaurants and weekend farmers markets line the streets - but it’s the coastline that steals the show - with its pristine beaches and rocky oceanfront promontories stretching out into Walker Bay. Enjoy free time to wander the streets of this charming town and perhaps even spot whales from the beach - before heading to tonight’s accommodation.

Breakfast, Lunch, Cape Winelands Wine Tastings, Overnight Hermanus Hotel

DAY 8 Hermanus to Swellendam to Mossel Bay

This morning you have free time where you can choose to perhaps embark on one of the optional excursions. Test your bravery with a Shark Cage Dive which includes a short drive to Gansbaai and a chance to see great white sharks in their natural habitat - or enjoy a Whale and Eco tour.

Our journey then continues through a section of the glorious expanse of coastline stretching some 200km from Mossel Bay to Storms River known as South Africa’s Garden Route. An awe-inspiring journey across thrilling topography where winding country roads traverse rugged coastal bluffs, vast arched bridges, quaint villages and picture-perfect swimming coves; while inland, rolling hillsides and bubbling brooks are interspersed amidst tangled forest scenery, dramatic mountain passes and verdant National Parks.

Set within the picturesque undulating farmland of the Western Cape province is a quaint country town dating back to 1745. Known for its Wildebraam Berry Liqueur, Swellendam’s charming tree lined streets are dotted with over 50 elegantly restored provincial heritage sights. We enjoy free time here for lunch whilst admiring the gorgeous Cape Dutch homes lining the main street; their traditional whitewashed walls, gables and thatched roofs are silhouetted against the majesty of the nearby Langeberg Range. We then travel onwards to stop at one of the original aloe factories in the Hessequa region. Sample various Aloe Vera products, wander through the indigenous garden (with 17 species of aloe) and taste some intriguing Aloe tea.

Today’s last stop is Mossel Bay - a cheery coastal town affording an old-school seaside ambiance. Its beautiful white and red 19th century lighthouse stands watch over the charming town and its picturesque coastal surrounds; from the wide stretch of powdery sand at celebrated Santos Beach to the pods of dolphins, the passing whales and infamous great white sharks. We visit Pinnacle Point Caves, a Provincial Heritage Site where human bones of between 40,000 and 170,000 years ago have been discovered and then head back to our hotel for dinner tonight.

This morning you can explore the beautiful harbour town of Hermanus at your leisure or join the optional Shark Cage Diving tour ($289) or the Marine Eco Big 5 Trip ($207). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Dinner, Aloe Tea Tastings, Overnight Mossel Bay hotel

DAY 9 Mossel Bay to Botlierskop Private Game Reserve to Knysna to Garden Route to Tsitsikamma

Today come face-to-face with Africa’s most famous wildlife at a large game conservatory. Experience an incredible safari game-drive through the Botlierskop natural sanctuary to spot for free roaming wildlife including lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino, cheetah, zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, hippo and more. Delight in the thrill of close encounters from a traditional open safari vehicle.

Then the charms of the Garden Route continue as we pause for lunch in Knysna – a celebrated seaside stopover set around a dazzlingly beautiful natural lagoon - its stunning turquoise waters surrounded by forested hills dotted with vacation homes and walking trails. Enjoy free time here to stroll the town centre revealing traditional woodworking stores, art galleries, coffee houses and heavenly waterfront restaurants. The perfect opportunity to taste the fresh local oysters and locally brewed Mitchell's beer.

We resume our journey for more animal adventures where you can choose to perhaps roam free with the monkeys at Monkeyland - a multi-species monkey sanctuary or visit Birds of Eden - a unique eco-tourism experience, and the world's largest free-flight aviary and bird sanctuary.

We all enjoy a relaxing dinner this evening.

This afternoon you can choose between optional activities of the Monkeyland ($31) or Birds of Eden ($31). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Tsitsikamma Hotel

DAY 10 Tsitsikamma National Park & Storms River to Eastern Cape

Today is defined by breathtaking natural landscapes and the opportunity for adventure as we venture in to the Tsitsikamma National Park. Tucked between the mountains and the sea, the park is home to a band of dense forest rich with thickets of ferns and towering yellow-woods, offering spectacular views over the Indian Ocean. Navigated by winding walk trails complete with a daring 77 metre long suspension bridge spanning the Storms River; immense millennia-old sandstone and quartz rock formations outline the breathtaking gorge and articulate the rocky shoreline.

The morning is yours to explore as you choose. Perhaps embark on a tree-top canopy tour, bungy jumping at Bloukrans Bridge (the highest bridge bungee in the world), the Woodcutters Trail Drive or a Kayak and Lilo Adventure. We then continue onto the spectacular Storms River Mouth. Take an exhilarating walk along the coast, cross the longest suspension river in South Africa and appreciate some free time to enjoy lunch overlooking the sparkling Indian Ocean. As you meander along the trails - keep an eye out for the Knysna Loerie, Cape Clawless Otter and dolphins.

We settle into our hotel tonight nestled within the splendour of the Eastern Cape. From its lush tropical forests and vast deserts to its delightfully undeveloped coastline, the Eastern Cape is South Africa off the beaten track; uniting waterfall-filled mountain landscapes, turquoise lagoons and private wildlife reserves aplenty. Settlements range from traditional African villages to casual coastal towns, while the picturesque landscape of the Amatole district is said to be the inspiration for J.R.R. Tolkien’s Middle Earth.

This morning is yours to explore the Tsitsikamma forest where you can choose from one of the optional activities such as the Bloukrans Bungee Jump ($153), the Tree Canopy Zip-lining ($70), the Woodcutters Trail Drive ($62) or Kayak and Lilo Adventure ($67). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Eastern Cape Hotel

DAY 11 Eastern Cape to Fruit Route: Route 62 to Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farm to the Karoo and Cango Caves

Our journey today ambles through the Langkloof Valley - a tranquil patchwork of rolling vineyards, colourful orchards, sun dappled valleys and rugged mountain passes - Route 62 - known as the Fruit Route - is touted as the longest wine route in the world. Dotted amongst the stone riverbanks, red country roads and the world’s longest narrow-guage railway are a selection of little towns, much the same – some larger, others virtually as they were when they first appeared in the valley.

Our first stop today is renowned for its Ostrich farms; Oudtshoorn made its fortune in the late 1800’s providing much sought after ostrich feathers for use in women’s fashion. The vestiges of this wealth can be seen today in the town’s sandstone buildings and "feather palaces"; the grandiose homes built by prosperous feather merchants. Enjoy a guided tractor tour featuring the history of ostrich farming, farming practices and the breeding cycle of these special Karoo ostriches. See ostriches and adorable chicks up-close and delight in a delicious traditional lunch. The world's longest underground cave system is also found nearby – the Cango Caves - a magnificent 20-million-year-old network of limestone chambers. While we are here, you have the option to join an included excursion to explore one of South Africa's hidden treasures on a heritage walking tour of the Caves.

As our day draws to a close we find ourselves surrounded by a vast semi-arid desert created by an ancient seabed; The Karoo has an almost magical feel to it. Endless plains are dotted with aloe plants and dwarf baobab trees, towering flat topped mountains lending a deep blue haze to the distant horizon. Beneath stunning sunsets and mesmerizing starscapes, small hamlets steeped in history and intrigue pop up like oases and quality wines are cultivated along the fertile riverbanks. Eating and drinking in the Karoo is an experience in itself and tonight we all relish a special traditional Karoo Dinner. On the menu are a variety of dishes prepared the customary way: ‘Braaivleis’ (BBQ), boerewors (South African sausage), potato salad, fresh seasonal veg and an iconic South African dessert. You may also get to taste true Karoo lamb with its distinctly herby flavour. This is sure to be a sensational culinary event!

This afternoon is yours to explore Oudtshoorn at your leisure or choose to take an optional tour like Star Gazing ($62). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Overnight Oudtshoorn Hotel

DAY 12 Oudtshoorn to Route 62 to Cape Winelands to Cape Town

We turn back towards Cape Town today and enjoy a stop at one of the quirky road stalls along the way. Along the Fruit Route we pause at Robertson, another exceptional wine-producing region, to enjoy a tasty included lunch before the tour continues to Paarl in the Cape Winelands.

Brimming with bucolic charm, Paarl is one of the oldest towns in South Africa; with a beautiful oak lined main street - nestled on the banks of the Berg River exhibiting charming Cape Dutch, Edwardian and Art Deco architecture. We pause to enjoy a cheese and wine tasting amongst the delightful patchwork of vine-combed valleys and rolling farmland. Taking its name from the stunning granite domes that overlook the town, Paarl is home to numerous world-class wineries - their Shiraz, Cabernet and Sauvignon vines glowing golden in the afternoon light and bejewelled by dazzling whitewashed colonial homesteads. We can use our free time here to explore the attraction known as the Spice Route which is home to outstanding artisanal shops and restaurants and the opportunity for more wine tasting.

Tonight we have a free evening in Cape Town. Perhaps visit Camps Bay or book a table at one of Cape Town’s marvellous restaurants.

Breakfast, Lunch, Overnight Cape Town

DAY 13 Cape Town to Johannesburg to Kruger National Park Region

This morning we head to the airport for our flight to the vibrant city of Johannesburg in the Gauteng province - known as the "City of Gold". Soon after our arrival we travel east towards South Africa’s Mpumalanga province. The journey ends as we arrive at our accommodation for the next few nights, a traditional Safari Lodge in the greater Kruger area. We settle down for a delicious meal under the African sky.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Kruger Safari Lodge

DAY 14 Kruger National Park Region

Today our dreams come true as we come face-to-face with Africa’s most famous wildlife on a full-day safari game drive of the southern part of the breathtaking Kruger National Park. Conjuring up images of idyllic African sunsets, leopards lazing in trees and dirt tracks disappearing into the wilderness, Kruger National Park is South Africa’s most exciting and iconic safari park. Vast landscapes awash with rolling plains, granite peaks and peaceful watering holes extend out in every direction, where elephants, lions, rhinos, Cape buffalo, leopards, giraffes, hippos and zebras roam free, and the hearts of people soar high above the glorious African planes.

Kruger offers some of the best close-up African wildlife encounters. Sitting elevated in the air-conditioned vehicle we can easily view the iconic animals in the bush. Look out for cheetahs, lions, wild dogs, leopards, elephants, buffalo, the white and black rhino, giraffe, zebra, ostriches, wildebeest, springbok, baboons, jackal, , impala, hippos and so much more. Pause at rest camps like Skukuza, Tshokwane and Satara along the way. Around late afternoon, we make our way back to our safari lodge on the western edge of this extraordinary game park. Enjoy time for a relaxing swim in the pool and a refreshing sun-downer or two before our delicious dinner this evening.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Kruger Safari Lodge

DAY 15 Explore Kruger National Park Region

Today we are offered more exceptional opportunities to further unveil the epic beauty of Kruger National Park - on safari in traditional open safari vehicles and accompanied by local wildlife specialists. A full-day safari game drive enables you to spend the day driving through some prime game viewing areas, stopping at a number of idyllic waterholes and rest camps. Along the way, we indulge in delicious snacks and a delectable picnic style lunch, served amidst the Park’s vast grasslands. Relish the opportunity to spot some of Kruger’s resident antelope, as well as an exhilarating array of birds and wildlife as we navigate through the Park. Kruger National Park is home to 114 different species of reptiles, 507 species of birds and 147 varieties of mammal offering us a plethora of opportunities to encounter some of Africa’s most iconic and amazing wildlife. On our return to the lodge – perhaps take a refreshing dip in the swimming pool before delighting in our mouthwatering dinner - in true African style.

Today is a flexi-free day where you can choose to relax around your accommodation or choose to take the optional Full Day Game Drive ($149) or the Full Day Game Drive with Lunch ($174). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Kruger Safari Lodge

DAY 16 Explore Kruger National Park Region

Today we have another exceptional opportunity to experience an extraordinary half-day, sunrise safari. The sunrise safari allows you to soak up the magic of the African bush at an enchanting time of day. Listen to the rousing chorus of animals and birdlife as they awaken and the sun casts its heavenly morning glow over the golden savannah. This incredible park has recorded more than 100 reptile species, 500 kinds of birds and 140 mammals - your guide will lead you to witness the waking of these remarkable creatures. Alternatively, you can choose to stay at the lodge and relax by the pool. This evening, it’s time to relax and savour our final dinner in the African bush. Unwind around the glowing campfire as we reminisce over the day’s adventures, exchanging safari stories and sipping delicious Amarula – a decadent African liqueur made with fruit from the region’s iconic Marula tree.

Today is a flexi-free day where you can choose to relax around your accommodation or choose to take the optional Half Day Game Drive ($124) or the Full Day Game Drive ($153). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Kruger Safari Lodge

DAY 17 Kruger National Park to Three Rondawels to Bourke’s Luck Potholes to Blyde River Canyon Viewpoint to Johannesburg

Today we farewell Kruger to discover the Panorama Route through the Mpumalanga province and the phenomenal splendour of the Blyde River Canyon. One of the world’s largest - the pure magnitude of beauty at the Blyde River Canyon makes it one of South Africa’s most celebrated natural sights. Stretching a breathtaking 60km - epic red rock formations tower above the lush evergreen vegetation dropping sharply away from the Escarpment into the lowveld and the meandering river below. The transcendent vistas stretch out in a seemingly endless panorama of colour and texture.

Our first awesome stop is the renowned Three Rondavels viewpoint. Widely considered one of the most spectacular views in all of South Africa, the vistas at the Three Rondavels Viewpoint are completely intoxicating. Amidst the glowing orange and purple hues of the canyon walls, a trio of enormous beehive hut shaped, grass topped peaks protrude up above the chasm overlooking the peacefully meandering Blyde River hundreds of metres below.

Next is an otherworldly geological site; carved into the sandstone bedrock over thousands of years by whirlpools generated at the union of the Blyde and Treur Rivers - Bourke’s Luck Potholes are a mesmerizing sight to behold. Viewed from the crags above, these bizarre cylindrical holes form a fascinating network of tunnels, tubes and whirlpools, flaunting a kaleidoscope of cool green hues amidst the striking orange of the canyon. Take a short walk and wander around what has been dubbed "nature's wishing well". Visit the information centre to learn more about the natural history and the San people, the earliest inhabitants of this region.

We then pause for one last look at the majestic Blyde River Canyon from one of the most cherished and photographed viewpoints in South Africa. See the Lowveld of South Africa with the Kruger National Park and Mozambique in the far distance.

Our final leg of the tour then takes us back to the bustling city of Johannesburg. Sit down for one last very special farewell dinner together; exchange stories, highlights and memories as we look back at our phenomenal South African wildlife and wildscapes experience.

Breakfast, Dinner, Overnight Johannesburg Hotel

DAY 18 Explore Johannesburg

Today is a flexi-free day to explore the dynamic city of Johannesburg. Take time today to relax amidst the facilities of your hotel or set out to discover the infectious energy of Johannesburg with a range of optional tours available. Jozi, as the locals call Johannesburg, has a fast-paced lifestyle that invigorates the spirit. Once home to the great Nelson Mandela, the sprawling Soweto district continues to be a potent reminder of the stark wealth divide and the era of apartheid. Today, the city is being reborn, skyscrapers tower above this once modest gold mining settlement, whereJacaranda’s bloom in spring and each evening is crowned with a dazzling sunset.

Perhaps discover the magic of Johannesburg on the City Tour – admire the iconic 269m Telkom Tower, enter the inspiring Constitution Hill and Court (when not in session) – where political activists like Nelson Mandela and Mahatma Gandhi were once held, walk on the Jazz Walk of Fame and head to the “Top of South Africa” at the Carlton Centre for panoramic views of Jozi.

Maybe cross into Soweto with your born and bred local Soweto guide who will take you deep into the township culture. Enjoy a personal experience of how vibrant and lively this part of Johannesburg really is. Discover the Hector Pieterson Museum, visit an informal settlement, walk through the Regina Mundi Church, admire the Freedom Square and Freedom Charter Memorial and view the homes of Nobel peace prize winner Archbishop Emeritus Desmond Tutu and Winnie Madikizela-Mandela.

You may perhaps take this last chance to indulge in the tastes of Johannesburg cuisine including Vetkoek - also known as amagwinya – like a sweet doughy donut that can be accompanied by syrup or savoury meats, allow some local Braai (braised meats) to enliven your taste buds or opt for some of the local and world renowned favourite of Biltong, delve in to the spice of the Chakalaka side salad or slip in to the sweetness of melktert - a delicious baked-egg custard tart.

Today you can spend time discovering the city of Johannesburg your own way or choose one of the optional tours available like the Johannesburg City Tour ($116), or the Soweto Half Day Tour ($116). Make your choice while on the tour.

Breakfast, Overnight Johannesburg hotel

DAY 19 Say Goodbye to Johannesburg

Today your Grand South Africa Tour draws to an end - your senses filled with the colours, flavours and aromas of this magnificent country and your heart overflowing with its precious gifts of remarkable wildlife, breathtaking panoramas and unforgettable experiences.

You will be personally met at your hotel by your HolidayMax representative and transferred to O.R. Tambo International Airport for your flight home.

Meet and greet personalized departure airport transfer

Day 20 Arrive Home

Enjoy the attentive service on your premium airline flight home.

Escorted Tour Details

Overview What to Expect Freedom and Flexibility Modern Coaches

Tour Leader Your Mobility & Fitness

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Escorted Coach Touring

Cherish the unforgettable moments of your HolidayMax escorted tour featuring unparalleled sightseeing and enriching cultural experiences. We are passionate about showing you the heart of the destination, enabling you to be truly touched by new experiences.

Your knowledgeable Tour Leader and host will ensure you get the best personal experience on your journey. Tours feature all the must-see sights along with our little-known exclusive hidden gems and special touches in each destination, with plenty of free-time for you to take it all in for yourself. Enjoy the freedom to tailor your holiday in your free-time, including whole free-days that give you a choice of activities to suit your mood on the day.

Stay in quality handpicked hotels. Savour deliciously authentic local dining in outstanding restaurants with a mouth-watering array of culinary experiences. Travel in large modern coaches with expansive windows for an incredible elevated view, in your comfortable seat with generous legroom.

Experience HolidayMax’s renowned immersive touring or river cruising. Join us on an unforgettable journey of discovery. We’ve taken care of the details; you just need to relax and embrace your sense of adventure.

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Grand South Africa Safari Tour

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* Starting holiday costs, per person, for 2 people sharing, on selected travel dates (off-peak). Travel on other dates attracts a surcharge. As prices vary based on travel dates, be flexible with dates to get the best deals! Itinerary and vehicle types subject to change without notice. Subject to limited availability at these prices, after which higher prices apply, book now. Some governments and service operators have Covid vaccination requirements. Your included flights advised via email with 24 hours to select alternative flights, routing or airline (alternatives may be at a higher price). Included flights may not be the most direct routing. Arrive earlier/stay longer for specified airports only. Stop-overs are not possible. Subject to Booking Conditions, see Important Information before booking. © DISCOVER AUSTRALIA Booking Code: mp480