Luxury South African Adventure: Trek, Surf and Safari vacations

South African Adventure: Trek, Surf and Safari

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At a glance

? Don't forget that all of our itineraries are totally customized and so this is just an idea of what we can build for you.

From Cape Town’s soaring peaks to the untamed wilderness of Manyoni, this journey blends adventure, culture, and wildlife in a thrilling exploration of South Africa’s most spectacular landscapes. Hike Table Mountain, surf the Atlantic waves, trek through the Drakensberg Mountains, and track the Big Five on safari—each day offers a new experience, weaving together the country’s wild beauty and rich heritage.

Cape Town is a city of contrasts, where rugged cliffs meet urban elegance. Begin by ascending Table Mountain’s rocky trails, rewarded with breathtaking panoramas before exploring the historic streets of Bo-Kaap. Feel the rush of the ocean as you ride the waves in a private surf lesson, then journey along the Cape Peninsula, where the cliffs of Cape Point give way to the playful penguins of Boulders Beach.

Leaving the mountains behind, the call of the wild leads to Manyoni Game Reserve, a sanctuary where elephants roam free, lions prowl the plains, and rhinos graze beneath golden skies. With expert guides, track Africa’s most iconic wildlife on game drives that pulse with the thrill of discovery. At Leopard Mountain Lodge, the days end with bush sundowners and candlelit dinners beneath a canopy of stars.

In Durban, the adventure takes a cultural turn, from bustling markets to street art and the vibrant flavors of bunny chow. As the journey ends, the memories—of mountains conquered, waves ridden, and wildlife encountered in its rawest form—linger long after you’ve said goodbye to South Africa’s wild spirit.

In detail

? Don't forget that most of our itineraries can be totally customized. Our expert team will be able to talk you through all the options.

Day 1: Welcome to Cape Town

Arrive in Cape Town, where a warm welcome awaits as a local representative greets you at the aircraft door. With assistance through immigration and baggage collection, you’ll be seamlessly transferred to Four Rosmead, a boutique hotel in a tranquil setting. Spend the rest of the day at leisure, soaking in the relaxed ambiance of this elegant retreat. Whether you choose to unwind after your journey or explore nearby sights, the adventure begins with a perfect balance of comfort and anticipation for the days ahead.

Day 1: Welcome to Cape Town

Day 2: Conquering Table Mountain & Exploring Cape Town

Lace up your hiking boots for a challenging ascent of Table Mountain, one of Cape Town’s most iconic landmarks. Accompanied by an expert guide, tackle a panoramic trail offering breathtaking views of the city, Camps Bay, and the Twelve Apostles. At the summit, celebrate your achievement before descending by cable car (weather permitting). In the afternoon, embark on a private city tour, exploring the historic streets of Bo-Kaap, the lively Greenmarket Square, and the storied landmarks of Cape Town. Choose to end the day at your hotel or continue exploring the V&A Waterfront, brimming with shops, cafés, and cultural attractions.

Day 2: Conquering Table Mountain & Exploring Cape Town

Day 3: Cape Peninsula & Boulders Beach Penguins

Venture along the Cape Peninsula, a landscape of rugged cliffs, white-sand beaches, and diverse wildlife. Discover scenic walking trails in Cape of Good Hope Reserve, where dramatic coastal scenery meets rich biodiversity. Along the way, encounter the endearing African penguins at Boulders Beach, before exploring charming seaside towns. Midday, enjoy a scenic picnic lunch, surrounded by breathtaking natural beauty. With your expert guide, learn about the region’s ecology, history, and local traditions, before returning to Four Rosmead for a relaxing evening.

Day 3: Cape Peninsula & Boulders Beach Penguins

Day 4: Surfing Cape Town’s Coast & V&A Waterfront

Feel the thrill of the waves with a private surf lesson at one of Cape Town’s premier surf spots. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced surfer, your certified instructor will tailor the session to your skill level, ensuring a fun and exhilarating experience. The afternoon is yours to explore the V&A Waterfront, a vibrant hub of culture and entertainment. Visit the Two Oceans Aquarium, meet playful Cape fur seals, browse designer boutiques, or take in sweeping harbor views from the historic Clock Tower.

Day 4: Surfing Cape Town’s Coast & V&A Waterfront

Day 5: From Cape Town to the Drakensberg Mountains

Bid farewell to Cape Town as you board a flight to Durban, followed by a scenic drive to the Drakensberg Mountains. En route, witness the rolling landscapes of KwaZulu-Natal, a region rich in natural beauty and Zulu heritage. In the afternoon, embark on a guided cycling tour through the rural village of Hambrook, gaining an intimate glimpse into local life. Meet welcoming community members, visit a preschool, and experience the traditions of Zulu culture. Settle into Three Tree Hill, a luxury retreat offering breathtaking mountain views.

Day 5: From Cape Town to the Drakensberg Mountains

Day 6: Hiking the Tugela Gorge

Embark on a full-day hiking adventure through the UNESCO-listed uKhahlamba National Park, trekking through protea-studded meadows, lush forests, and riverbeds. The 9-mile route winds through Drakensberg’s dramatic landscapes, culminating at the spectacular Tugela Falls, the second-highest waterfall in the world. With your private guide, explore the rich biodiversity of this pristine wilderness, spotting rare birdlife and soaking in jaw-dropping vistas. This immersive journey showcases the raw beauty of South Africa’s great outdoors, making for an unforgettable active escape.

Day 6: Hiking the Tugela Gorge

Day 7: From Mountains to Safari in Manyoni Game Reserve

Leave the Drakensberg Mountains behind as you journey to Manyoni Private Game Reserve, one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premier Big Five safari destinations. Initially established for black rhino conservation, Manyoni is now a thriving wildlife sanctuary set against breathtaking Zululand scenery. Arriving at Leopard Mountain Lodge, settle into your luxury chalet before embarking on an afternoon game drive. As the sun sets over the savannah, encounter majestic elephants, prowling leopards, and grazing antelope, before returning to the lodge for dinner under the stars.

Day 7: From Mountains to Safari in Manyoni Game Reserve

Day 8: Safari Adventures in Manyoni

Wake before dawn for a thrilling morning game drive, when wildlife is at its most active. Traverse diverse landscapes, tracking the Big Five with expert guides who bring the bush to life with fascinating insights. After a leisurely afternoon at the lodge, set out once more as the sun begins to dip, offering the chance to witness predators on the move. Each game drive is unique, promising extraordinary encounters with South Africa’s most iconic wildlife in their natural habitat.

Day 8: Safari Adventures in Manyoni

Day 9: Bush Tranquility & Travel to Durban

Savor a morning of relaxation at Leopard Mountain’s spa, where a soothing massage with natural ingredients provides the perfect complement to your safari experience. Enjoy a final bush breakfast before departing for Durban, a city famed for its golden beaches and cultural diversity. Arrive at The Oyster Box, a luxury seaside retreat offering stunning ocean views. Spend the evening at leisure, perhaps enjoying a cocktail on the terrace as you listen to the sound of the waves.

Day 9: Bush Tranquility & Travel to Durban

Day 10: A Taste of Durban’s Culture & Cuisine

Explore the vibrant city of Durban on a private guided tour, discovering its hidden gems and cultural treasures. Stroll through the Botanical Gardens, home to a rare collection of cycads and orchids, before venturing into Glenwood, a hub for street art and contemporary culture. Meet Mama Nkosi, a curator of traditional Zulu artifacts, and sample Durban’s famous bunny chow, a unique culinary experience. The day ends at Distillery 031, where you’ll enjoy a gin tasting, celebrating the city’s emerging craft spirit scene.

Day 10: A Taste of Durban’s Culture & Cuisine

Day 11: Farewell to South Africa

Your journey through South Africa’s landscapes, cultures, and wilderness comes to a close with a private transfer to the airport. As you depart Durban, the memories—of scaling Table Mountain, surfing Cape Town’s waves, hiking the Drakensberg, and encountering wildlife in Manyoni—will stay with you forever.

Day 11: Farewell to South Africa
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