Southern Africa Family Adventure

Upon arrival in Johannesburg, transfer to our hotel and gather for an orientation and welcome reception.

This morning, board chartered bush planes to Kasane, our gateway to the wonders of Chobe National Park. Built along the riverbanks with spectacular views of the Chobe River, floodplains and plentiful animal and bird life, this well-known lodge is the only permanent lodge within the boundaries of the park. This afternoon, enjoy a river safari in a flat decked safari boat. 

Follow the animals as the natural conditions determine our activities, from a lecture at our lodge to taking a land-based wildlife drive or cruising the Chobe River in search of the park’s giraffes, baboons, impalas and elephants. This evening we take part in a traditional boma dinner—a festive outdoor BBQ with live music and dancing, whose roots stem from the African bush.

Cross the border to Zambia today to explore one of the world’s greatest natural wonders: Victoria Falls. An average of almost two million cubic feet of water cascades every minute over the edge of the falls, which stretch an amazing one mile in width, dropping 360 feet into the Zambezi Gorge. The constant mist nicknamed “the smoke that thunders,” creates an environment simulating a tropical rain forest and is visible from the winding footpath along the rim. Share lunch at the hotel, which offers direct access to the Zambezi River, followed by a tour of the falls.

Take time this morning to relax at our luxurious hotel or choose your own adventure among optional activities that include rafting and zip-lining. Meet back up with the group in the afternoon for a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.

Fly above South Africa to Nelspuit Airport and transfer to Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, one of the first private game reserves in South Africa, which abuts the southwestern border of Kruger National Park. Over the next several days, head out in open vehicle with naturalist guides in search of Africa’s “Big Five”—the lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros and buffalo, all of which dwell in the reserve. We also observe the reserve’s nocturnal inhabitants, during a memorable nighttime safari. During down time, enjoy the lodge’s fun educational activities, as well as its pools, viewing decks and spa.

Following a final early morning wildlife drive and breakfast, head back to the airport for our flight to Cape Town. Home to Table Mountain and overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town is often described as one of the world’s most beautiful cities, boasting beaches, mountains and plenty of greenery. It’s also a rare cultural gem whose cuisines, languages and cultures reflect the rich diversity of Cape Town’s population.

Take in sweeping views of the area during a cable car ride to the summit of Table Mountain, then head to the Cape of Good Hope to marvel at the distinctive flora and fauna of its nature reserve. Travel along the Atlantic coast of the Cape Peninsula via Chapman’s Peak Drive, considered one of the world’s most spectacular marine routes. Stop en route to view the colony of endangered African penguins that hang out at Boulders Beach.

Explore a sobering chapter in the history of South Africa, traveling by boat to Robben Island for a tour of the maximum-security prison where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned. See the cell occupied by Mandela, as well as the cells of other noted anti-apartheid activists. Return to Cape Town to visit the District Six Museum, which honors the memories of communities affected by forced removals and contributes to the cultural reconstruction and restitution of post-apartheid Cape Town. Reflect on our journey with fellow travelers at our farewell dinner this evening.

Transfer to Cape Town International Airport for flights home.