Gay Group Trip: South Africa Explorer

We’ll make our way towards the rolling vineyards and sample some of South Africa’s finest wines. We’ll meet some locals, try some reds, whites and bubbles and go winery hopping on the wine train.

Hopefully not too hungover, we’ll make our way to Kruger Park in the Northeast and set out on a South African safari. Keep an eye peeled for lions, springbok, hippos and cheetahs.

We’ll be staying in a beautiful hotel. During the day we’ll set out on game drives with an experienced ranger who’ll teach us about the magic and mystery of the African bush.

Our main focus will be on the “big five” but keep an eye out for the many other creatures that live in the reserve.

We’ll drive to the Johannesburg and spend our last night together. After some last minute shopping, you’ll be transferred to the airport for your return flight.

We can organise a 3-night optional extension in Victoria Falls. It’s the world’s largest waterfall – you’ll find it at the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe.

We’ll be staying in a boutique lodge in a peaceful setting. You can join an optional 2-hour cruise down the Zambezi River upon arrival. Over two full days, we’ll explore one of the great natural wonders of the world. The thunderous sound of the water can be heard for miles around. We’ll have lunch at the Batoka Gorge overlooking the waterfall.

On our final evening, we’ll try some classic Zimbabwean cuisine accompanied by live music. The sounds and tastes of Africa will make for a fitting end to an epic trip.

Experience genuine country-style hospitality at Cascade Country Manor, featuring 15 upscale rooms and a host of luxurious amenities such as a spa, outdoor pool, and Wi-Fi. Conveniently located near attractions like Ashia Cheetah Sanctuary, Drakenstein Lion Park, and numerous wine estates, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

Perched above Franschhoek’s wineries and mountains, this 4-star gem exudes historical charm, with some parts tracing their roots back to the late 1800s. Enjoy meals in the renowned restaurant, swims in the refreshing swimming pool, and in-room amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi, a refrigerator, room safe, flat-screen TV, and air conditioning.

Nestled along the Sabie River’s banks, this is the ultimate retreat for your Kruger National Park adventure. Pamper yourself at the exquisite spa, dine in style at the restaurant, and relax by one of the five swimming pools. Don’t miss the 18-hole golf course or the chance to spot resident hippos. Each room includes complimentary Wi-Fi, room safes, flat-screen TVs, and air conditioning.

Hotel Melrose Arch is perfectly situated in the heart of the vibrant Melrose Arch Precinct, surrounded by chic cafes, boutique shops, and open-air dining. With its own outdoor pool, restaurant, and bar, you’ll have everything at your fingertips. Enjoy complimentary Wi-Fi, 24-hour room service, flat-screen TVs, air conditioning, and USB outlets in each room.

You can join the trip as a solo traveller, with a partner or group of friends. Joining a group trip organised by destination experts is a great way to discover the highlights of South Africa in one trip. Booking a trip that visits so many places in the country can be tricky logistically – with this trip, all you have to do is show up and enjoy the ride.

South Africa’s climate is mostly mild throughout the year, with warm to very hot summer temperatures. The warmest season typically runs from November to February and the cool season is usually June to August. The further north you travel in South Africa, the hotter it gets. Meanwhile, areas along the coast tend to be slightly cooler in temperature year-round.

January through April tends to be warmest and sunniest time of year with typical highs reaching into the low 30s celsius while June through August typically sees temperatures dip down to around 15 degrees celsius. However, weather can sometimes be unpredictable in any region of the world so always pack appropriately for a potential rainy day!

Food in South Africa is incredible. While there are diverse options, including those for vegetarians, meat dishes are prominent in many menus, sometimes featuring exotic choices.

While all breakfasts are included in the trip, lunch and dinner are not part of the package, so you can explore the diverse restaurant options on offer for lunch and dinner at your own pleasure. This way, you have the freedom to dine at your chosen time and place, with the company of your choice, and within your preferred budget. Should you seek recommendations for the best dining experiences in each location, your trip leader will be a valuable resource.

South Africa is celebrated for its incredible diversity. With 11 official languages and a rich tapestry of cultures, classes, and ethnicities, it’s a nation where people from all walks of life unite. The post-apartheid constitution of 1994 aimed to foster inclusivity, extending a warm welcome to everyone, including the LGBTQ+ community. South Africa was among the pioneers in legalizing same-sex marriage, demonstrating its progressive spirit. The local population is renowned for their laid-back, friendly demeanor, making foreigners feel right at home in this welcoming nation. And you’ll find English to be widely spoken, so language barriers are rarely a concern.

The regions you’ll explore in South Africa are generally open-minded, and many people are accepting of diversity. However, it’s important to note that South Africa stands out as a welcoming destination in a continent with varying attitudes toward LGBTQ+ issues. For this reason, we recommend exercising discretion in public displays of affection.

What’s the Currency?
We recommend bringing your standard bank card from your home country and using South African ATMs to withdraw cash. This is typically more cost-effective than exchanging currency either in South Africa or your home country. South Africa’s currency is the Rand (ZAR), and you’ll find that most places don’t accept US Dollars or Euros. It’s advisable to carry at least one credit card with you, as credit cards are widely accepted in South Africa.

Do I Tip in South Africa?
Similar to customs in the United States and Canada, South Africa follows a tipping culture. It’s customary to add a gratuity of approximately 12-18% to your restaurant or bar bill for excellent service. Your trip leader will provide guidance on tipping for other services, such as your safari guide, during your journey.

What Plugs Are Used?
South Africa utilizes various plug shapes, making it advisable to carry a versatile multi-prong electrical adapter for your trip. The standard voltage is 230V with a frequency of 50 Hz.

How Many Go on the Trip?
These trips are intentionally intimate, accommodating a maximum of 16 travelers. Our group members span various ages, with approximately 90% falling in the 30s, 40s, and 50s range.

Will We Have a Trip Leader?
You’ll have a dedicated gay trip leader accompanying you throughout the journey. Their role is to make your Greece experience truly unforgettable by sharing expertise, eliminating travel hassles and ensuring you can fully immerse yourself in the Greek culture.

What Do I Bring?
We recommend you pack light, with breathable clothing and light layers. If there’s anything urgent you need that you’ve forgotten, you can always pick up a replacement in Athens.

Will I Need to Set Alarms?
We strive to avoid the jolt of an alarm clock during your trip. In Greece, your ‘rise and shine’ is ideally accompanied by the soothing sounds of waves or distant church bells. Occasionally, early departures may be necessary due to ferry schedules, but these are kept to a minimum.