Journey to Southern Africa

Upon arrival to Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport you will be transferred by hotel shuttle to the nearby Protea Hotel OR Tambo for a two-night stay.

Protea Hotel OR Tambo has a funky aviation theme that ties into its proximity to OR Tambo International Airport.  It is a hotel that is on trend and modish while at the same time a serene escape from the hustle and bustle of the city, with blackout curtains and double-glazed windows.  There is an onsite restaurant, The Warehouse, that offers distinctive international cuisine, and it has an outdoor terrace allowing for alfresco dining.  There is an outdoor swimming pool as well as a fitness centre.

Johannesburg is one of Africa’s biggest cities. It is the economic capital of Africa and the gateway to Southern Africa. Although not as famous as other South African destinations, there is plenty to do in Johannesburg. The old city is a multi-cultural mixture of traditional medicine shops, Chinese restaurants, taxi ranks and ultra modern skyscrapers. There are excellent museums, art galleries and organised tours of historical and political interest. The shopping is Southern Africa’s best and the many restaurants cater for all tastes. The nearby township of Soweto is Johannesburg’s most popular tourist attraction.

SOWETO, acronym for South Western Township, is home to over 2 million people, who, despite living in crowded and chaotic conditions, have a tangible sense of community, one which ironically, the ordered, walled, elitist northern suburbs lack. Inside Soweto, guests visit the Kliptown Open Air Museum where delegates met in 1955 to adopt the Freedom Charter, now the cornerstone of the Bill of Rights and the South African Constitution. This journey continues to Regina Mundi Church, site of many secret underground meetings of the then banned political parties. The next stop is the Hector Pieterson Memorial, and discover the cause of the tragic riots which led to his death; guests will pass Mandela House, and give you time to visit this fascinating little museum (own account).

The tour will visit the Apartheid Museum. 

The Apartheid Museum opened in 2001 and is acknowledged as the pre-eminent museum in the world dealing with 20th century South Africa, at the heart of which is the apartheid story. 

The Apartheid Museum, the first of its kind, illustrates the rise and fall of apartheid. 

An architectural consortium, comprising several leading architectural firms, conceptualised the design of the building on a seven-hectare stand. The museum is a superb example of design, space and landscape offering the international community a unique South African experience. 

The exhibits have been assembled and organised by a multi-disciplinary team of curators, filmmakers, historians and designers. They include provocative film footage, photographs, text panels and artefacts illustrating the events and human stories that are part of the horrific period in our history, known as apartheid. 

Shuttle from the hotel back to Johannesburg’s airport for your scheduled flight to Victoria Falls. On arrival in Victoria Falls, you’ll be transferred to Bayete Guest Lodge where you will spend three nights.

Bayete Guest Lodge Victoria Falls offers comfortable and affordable accommodation in the heart of the Victoria Falls residential area. It is the flag ship and first lodge in the Bayete Collection.

Bayete Guest Lodge is a family run lodge which offers 30 rooms set in a lush tropical garden. Central to the lodge is the large teardrop swimming pool, which is hugged by the Dining Boma and Bar. The Tavern is steeped in history and character and is central to the communal area where guests are welcomed to gather, have refreshments and socialise. 

Bayete Guest Lodge room rates include a Full English Breakfast, which is served every morning in the dining boma. A delicious seasonal menu prepared by our executive chef for lunch and dinner are also available on request and should be pre-ordered on the day. 

We are a quiet oasis far removed from the hustle and bustle of the town and offer a tranquil and comfortable escape for both work and pleasure orientated travelers.  

A late afternoon private guided tour of the falls has been arranged.

The Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. David Livingstone was the first European to visit the Falls, and named it after Queen Victoria. To the locals, it is known as Mosi-oa-Tunya The Smoke that Thunders an accurate description of what happens when the waters of the Zambezi River plunge over the 1700 metre wide and 100-metre deep chasm, creating a shower of spray and a deafening noise. From February to May each year, the Victoria Falls are in full flood and 500 million litres of water tumble over the edge into a series of gorges each minute!

Enjoy another exciting  day in Victoria Falls.  The activities are endless. White water rafting on the Zambezi River is an adrenaline thrill. Shopping in Chinotimba Village for school supplies and visiting the local elementary school is always heartwarming. Enjoying afternoon tea or a gin and tonic at the classic historical Victoria Falls Hotel is an experience in itself.  A horse back safari offers a unique safari experience like no other.  Hop on the hop on hop off Bamba Bus and stop and tour the many sites of Vic Falls.

Zambezi River Cruise: As the sun begins its descent, step on board our floating restaurant for an exceptional evening on the Zambezi River. Like the exquisite bird after which it was named Malachite is one of the Zambezi River’s crowning gems. Powered by two 60HP four stroke marine motors, this beautifully crafted double deck vessel silently slices across the surface of the river.  On the upper deck, guests are offered a glass of sparkling wine to sip as they settle into the plush cushioned furniture and relax before the journey along the Zambezi River begins; all the while looking out for the various birdlife and animals there are to be seen and then watching as one of Africa’s famous sunsets erupts in the sky.   After the sun has sunk below the river line, dinner is served on the lower deck of the vessel exemplifying the hallmarks of exquisite cuisine prepared on board by two Chefs. The rich aroma of locally sourced, fresh ingredients wafts around diners as the dishes are plated.  Time seems to stand still as the boat gently glides along to the sound of water lapping up against her sides. Far removed from the glare of city lights and noise, the moon and stars shine brightly in the sky and an atmosphere of mystery and romance envelopes the evening’s experience. A captain completes the crew and their combined experience promises an insightful and memorable evening.

Lagoon 

Lagoon is perched on the banks of the wild Kwando River, nestled beneath towering ebony and marula trees. The heavily forested site is home to a wide variety of birds and mammals, while elephant and hippo are normally visible from the camp. The stunning views and proximity of wildlife all contribute to the pervading sense of calm at Lagoon. 

Lagoon’s area in the Kwando Reserve has a well-earned reputation for big game and large herds of elephant and buffalo, especially in the winter months, when herds of up to a thousand are not uncommon. This vast concentration of game attracts the attention of large predators. The Lagoon wild dog pack regularly den close to the camp, providing excellent viewing opportunities. 

Seasonally large herds of elephant drink at the riverbank near to the camp in full view of the main deck, while pods of hippos are commonly seen languidly sunbathing in the water. 

Lagoon accommodates up to 18 guests in nine expansive tents. Each tent’s private deck, living area, and bathroom all afford picturesque views over the river. Likewise, these views are also perfect to wake up to, in bed. Each tent has an ensuite bathroom with both an indoor and outdoor shower, as well as a bathtub for an enjoyable afternoon soak. 

The main areas of the camp include a bar and sitting area, outdoor deck with a swing, dining area, curio shop, orientation centre, and a cozy second-level library overlooking the river. 

Lagoon Camp offers many exciting and interesting activities. Including off road game drives, walking safaris, night drives, and seasonal fishing. 

Another special feature of the camp is the afternoon river cruise. The unique double deck boat allows several guests the opportunity to drift along the river while enjoying spectacular views, mammal and bird life while sipping at your ‘sundowner’ of choice. 

Lebala means ‘wide open spaces’, and the camp is located in the Kwando Reserve’s 232,000 hectares of private unfenced wilderness. Here, the southerly flowing Kwando River disappears into the vast marshland to the east, outside of the Kwando Reserve. Lebala sits on the floodplains of the Kwando River and the special ecosystem is home to a wide variety of Africa’s plains game such as zebra, wildebeest, impala, giraffe, and tsessebe. The wonderful variety of wildlife also includes elephant, hippo, buffalo and the ever-present predators of lion, cheetah and hyena. Lebala’s location away from the dense mopane woodland to the east of the Reserve facilitates the ease of traversing the concession looking for big game.

The Camp 

The camp itself is comprised of nine custom designed tents, with unique mosquito net walls, allowing an unobstructed flow of cooling breezes and stunning views. Each spacious tent has its own viewing deck, bathroom and luxurious double outside showers. 

There is also one family tent which consists of an additional twin bedroom within the unit itself, ensuring that parents and young children sleep in the same tent for their peace of mind. 

The main areas of the camp include a small swimming pool, a communal fireplace and dining room, a curio shop, bar and lounge area complemented with a small library. 

Outdoor private dinners can be organised by the poolside or by the fireplace for special occasions such as birthdays, anniversaries and honeymoons. 

The wide-open areas at Lebala offer incredible animal sightings. Daily off roading safaris, night drives and walking safaris make it an ideal camp to stay at. Sitting by the pool or on the porch on your tent animal watching is a highlight.  

Circuit Flights: The light aircraft, circuit flights are subject to weight restrictions based on the aircraft used, weather conditions and season, passenger and luggage weights, routing and fuel required. Some routes may require enroute stops which may involve changing aircraft. Total baggage allowance on these inter-camp flights is 20kg total per person (includes checked bag as well as all carry-on items).

Splash Camp is situated in the heart of the Okavango Delta, within the Private Kwara Reserve.  This brand new camp offers a very relaxed, friendly, and authentic atmosphere.  The area has long been known as Splash due to the huge water crossings that had to be negotiated to access the camp area.

Located around a pan, each of the 12 rooms is situated on a deck overlooking the pan which attracts game year-round.  All include ensuite flush toilets, double sinks, and both indoor and outdoor showers.  In addition each room has a private veranda with outdoor lounge chairs, the perfect place to relax and take in the magnificent views and soak up the atmosphere.

The rooms and main area are simply and elegantly decorated with contemporary furniture, complementing the atmosphere of the camp.  The main area has a plunge pool, bar, and lounge, as well as an orientation centre and a curio shop.

The Kwara Reserve shares a 30km water boundary with the famous Moremi Game Reserve, and its unique location boasts both permanent water and seasonal flood plains as well as extensive dry bush wilderness.  Favoured by labyrinths of permanent water channels and secret islands, this area offers the perfect delta experience and is considered to be among the best in Botswana for game viewing and activities.

Three-night stay on an inclusive basis: accommodation, all meals, twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry and all local drinks excluding premium imported brands and champagne.

While staying at Splash Camp you will be taken on daily off road game drives (day and night) in Land Cruisers with 3 seats, maximum six (6) people per vehicle.  Enjoy guided walking safaris, or relax by the pool or on your own deck, watching the landscape for animals.  Splash Camp operates game drives using a guide and tracker.  This adds to the experience on two levels: there are two sets of eyes searching out the action, looking for tracks; this ensures a good chance of sightings, especially predators.  In addition, having the tracker out front tracking gives the guide more opportunity to interact with clients, leading to a relaxed, convivial game drive atmosphere.  As Splash is in a private concession, the opportunity to drive off road in search of sightings means one is able to drive at night with spotlights.

Helicopter Tour Option (additional cost)

Helicopter Horizons – Scenic Helicopter Flights

Doors off (seatbelts on!) for unrestricted views and the best photo opportunities imaginable. Fly deep into the Delta to experience inaccessible areas and wildlife that is concealed from ground-level observers.  Wildlife and birding enthusiasts will value the aerial view laid out below. See the tapestry of hidden channels, islets dotted with termite mounds and the flooded glory of the Okavango Delta that you only truly appreciate from above.

A helicopter tour over the Okavango Delta is a once in lifetime experience you will never forget.

Departures can be arranged from Splash Camp at anytime between dawn and dusk – your choice.  Duration options: 30, 45 and 60 mins

Light aircraft transfer to Maun Airport. Scheduled commercial flight to Cape Town.

The modern City Lodge V&A Waterfront is situated centrally in the city of Cape Town and is at the entrance of the premier V&A Waterfront.  This is where you will find exclusive shops, restaurants and bars as well as the Two Oceans Aquarium, a fascinating insight into ocean life.

Situated at the entrance of this iconic mixed-use precinct, the 207-room City Lodge Hotel Victoria and Alfred Waterfront allows guests easy access to this great Cape Town attraction, as well as the Cape Town International Convention Centre and colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood.

A nautical theme runs through the property in keeping with its seaside location.

The hotel features the #Cafe restaurant service Full English and Continental breakfast, lunch and dinner daily; sundowner bar and spa pool with views; uncapped WiFi, 12-seater meeting room; and fitness room.

Resting at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Ocean, sandwiched between the slopes of the iconic Table Mountain and the glistening sapphire waters of Table Bay, the exceptionally scenic city of Cape Town is in a class of its own. Some cities boast rich culture, vibrant nightlife, a cosmopolitan atmosphere and extraordinary architecture, while others boast breath-taking landscapes and extraordinary natural wonders. Cape Town is lucky enough to be blessed with all of these attractions and so much more. With its bustling harbour, world-class beaches, top-notch vineyards, and its mountainous surroundings brimming with diverse flora and fauna, Cape Town consistently captivates the hearts of all who visit.

Experience the 114 curves and 9km drive of the one of the world’s most scenic and majestic drives, Chapman’s Peak.  Hope off at one of the many picnic spots where you can enjoy and take photographs of the breathtaking view of the rugged cliffs, beaches, ocean, whales. and dolphins!

Visit the Jackass penguin colony at Boulders Beach in Simon’s town.  Observe their fascinating behaviours up close.

Visit the Cape Point Ostrich Farm and see the largest and heaviest bird in the world.  Observe these towering birds trot and show their plumage.  The lovely gift shop stocks ostrich eggs, leather goods, and African gifts.

Hike up to or take the funicular to the spectacular view from Cape Point lighthouse.  Explore the Cape of Good Hope.

Explore the stunning botanical gardens at Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens.  The gardens cover five of South Africa’s six different biomes.  (entrance fee not included)

Free Day to explore Cape Town. We suggest Robben Island, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront Park, Two Oceans Aquarium, and the many beautiful beaches in the area.

Robben Island: Robben Island is most famous as the place where Nelson Mandela, the first democratically elected president of South Africa, was imprisoned for 18 of his 27 years in jail. The island has since become a symbol of the triumph of democracy and freedom over oppression.

V&A Waterfront: The V&A Waterfront is one of South Africa’s most visited destinations, with 24 million visits annually. Situated in the oldest working harbour in the southern hemisphere, the property boasts the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop and extensive views of the ocean, city bowl and mountain peaks.

After breakfast you will depart on your half day Winelands tour. Explore the beautiful Boland region in South Africa’s breath-taking winelands. Visit wine estates that suit your preferences, and taste delicious wines while enjoying stunning views. Relax over lunch at one of the local, award- winning restaurants (lunch is included) and soak up the rich history and culture of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

Enjoy your free day before departing Cape Town.