October 10-19, 2024
Mr. Nelson Mandela was a leader of the anti-apartheid struggle and oversaw the transition to democracy, becoming the country’s first democratically elected president of South Africa in 1994. Come go with us as we follow in his footsteps.
Visit at least three of the social development projects being funded through Uthando South Africa, a charity that supports a wide range of highly effective community projects across the country.
Elephants, lions, leopards, zebras, and cheetahs are just some of the animals you’ll spy on during your sunrise and sunset safaris as you come face-to-face with the wild heart of South Africa.
You’ll also take in breath-taking views of cosmopolitan Cape Town, explore the cobbled stone streets and brightly colored houses of the traditional Cape Malay community at Bo Kaap, frolic with the African penguins at their breeding colony at Boulders Beach, and sample the wines that make Stellenbosch famous on a tour of the fabled Cape Winelands.
Spend your nights at stylish city hotels in the heart of Cape Town’s vibrant entertainment district and in traditional safari lodges. When it comes time to discover South Africa’s wild heart, your expert safari guides will take you closer to the action than you ever imagined possible.
On this custom designed private journey to South Africa, you will travel with us to .....
Spend your nights at stylish city hotels in the heart of Cape Town's vibrant entertainment district and in traditional safari lodges.
Enjoy learning about the fascinating history of Nelson Mandela’s South Africa while it is brought to life through a collection of soulful encounters with the people and places he touched in his efforts to end apartheid.
Learn more in-depth about the culture and history of South Africa as well as who Nelson Mandela was and where he lived his life.
Take a journey on a safari where you will likely meet the Big Five (lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and African buffalos). Enjoy a front-row seat and watch the sun cast its golden hue across Africa's endless savanna as the local wildlife being their daily parade.
Round out your stay with delicious wine tastings, coupled with mouthwatering chocolate and dessert tastings that make Stellenbosch famous.
By the end of this journey, you would have enjoyed time spent with family and friends so you can cherish these memories forever.
You will be welcomed to Southern Africa by a local representative who will direct you through immigration, baggage collection and customs.
On one of the tour dates, set out on your first official game drive alongside a professional tracker, ranger and other guests of the camp.
As a part of the Greater Kruger Area, the Kapama Private Game Reserve is home to impressive herds of migrating buffalo, trumpeting elephants, grazing antelopes and a variety of predators including lions and leopards.
Spend the afternoon spotting and snapping photos of species on the reserve while basking in the incomparable beauty of South Africa, the sun descending behind the distant Drakensberg Mountain Range during the latter hours.
Experience the thrill and excitement of viewing wildlife in their natural habitat as a guest of a private game lodge.
Set off through the Winelands; a delightful drive which winds its way through superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads.
We understand finding time to take a vacation is often difficult. Nothing is worse than squeezing in the time for vacation only to be stressed and overwhelmed with the planning to arrive to an underwhelming experience. We plan hosted group trips, such as this one to South Africa.
We work hard to ensure your vacation will be an experience of a lifetime.
This custom-designed journey combines luxury travel, adventure, history, outdoors, and culture, providing a unique and transformative experience.
You will have the opportunity to see wildlife in green grasslands, connect with Mr. Mandela’s legacy, learn about his life and struggles, visit some of the world’s best winelands, and most of all connect with locals – an essential part of travel.
Join us for a journey you won't forget.
Here's your travel itinerary for this journey of a Lifetime!
Arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa
Welcome to Johannesburg!
Johannesburg, South Africa's biggest city and capital of Gauteng province, began as a 19th-century gold-mining settlement. Its sprawling Soweto township was once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
Mandela’s former residence is now the Mandela House museum. Other Soweto museums that recount the struggle to end segregation include the somber Apartheid Museum and Constitution Hill, a former prison complex.
The city was established in 1886, following the discovery of gold, on what had been a farm. Due to the extremely large gold deposits found along the Witwatersrand, within ten years, the population had grown to over 100,000 inhabitants. A separate city from the late 1970s until 1994, Soweto is now part of Johannesburg proper. An acronym for "South-Western Townships", Soweto was organized initially as a collection of nondescript settlements on the outskirts of the city, populated mostly by African laborers working in the gold mining industry.
Johannesburg
Today’s tour seamlessly combines two of Johannesburg’s most popular attractions while giving you an opportunity to take a closer look at South Africa’s turbulent past.
Beginning with a visit to Soweto (South Western Township), a sprawling “city within a city” which is home to many who work in various parts of the greater metropolitan area of the Witwatersrand.
Visit the Mandela House Museum - formerly the home of Nelson Mandela and the Apartheid Museum for a deeper look at the humbling and ultimately inspiring journey from the dark days of segregation to Mandela's release from prison, and his policy of reconciliation rather than retribution.
Embark on a historical voyage of discovery, a personal exploration of the past that examines the story of apartheid right up to the first democratic elections held in 1994.
Johannesburg to Kapama Private Game Reserve
Board a flight in Johannesburg with service to Hoedspruit. (approx. 55 minutes flight duration)
Set out on your first official game drive alongside a professional tracker, ranger and other guests of the camp.
Spend the afternoon spotting and snapping photos of species on the reserve while basking in the incomparable beauty of South Africa, the sun descending behind the distant Drakensberg Mountain Range during the latter hours.
Kapama Private Game Reserve
In the cool morning hours before sunrise, the Kapama bush is incredibly active. Gear up and get comfortable in your safari vehicle as you set out before morning light to witness this symphony of nature firsthand.
Beyond the Big 5, 40 unique species of mammals and nearly 350 species of birds can be found in Kapama; it is a nature lover’s paradise that cannot be fully appreciated until you’re cruising through the bush, engulfed in the sounds, scents and sights of South Africa.
Cape Town
Transfer between the Kapama Private Game Reserve and Hoedspruit. Board a flight in Hoedspruit with service to Cape Town. (approx. 2 hour and 40 minutes flight time). Arrive in Cape Town and enjoy an afternoon at leisure.
Cape Town is South Africa's oldest city. It serves as the country's legislative capital, being the seat of the South African Parliament.
Cape Town is a port city on South Africa’s southwest coast, on a peninsula beneath the imposing Table Mountain. Slowly rotating cable cars climb to the mountain’s flat top, from which there are sweeping views of the city, the busy harbor and boats heading for Robben Island, the notorious prison that once held Nelson Mandela, which is now a living museum.
A coming-together of cultures, cuisines and landscapes, there's nowhere quite like Cape Town, a singularly beautiful city crowned by the magnificent Table Mountain National Park.
Cape Town
Beat the crowds and start the day early with your private guide by visiting Cape Town’s most iconic landmark, Table Mountain. One of the most spectacularly bio-diverse places on Earth, an estimated 1,500 unique species of plant-life are found on Table Mountain alone, many of which are endemic and found nowhere else on the planet. Ascend by cable car as the mist from the clouds open up to the main plateau while striking views of Cape Town come into crystal-clear focus.
Visit Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for 18 years. After boarding a ferry to reach the island, you will be met by a local guide – usually a former inmate of the island during the apartheid era – to participate on a shared outing where you will learn deeply moving and at times personal accounts of times past.
This historic landmark and UNESCO site pays tribute to the triumph of freedom and human dignity.
Cape Town
Begin the day with a visit to one of the more popular leisure hubs for locals – the glorious beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, where impressive white sand beaches hug the shoreline with the Twelve Apostles as a stunning backdrop. Learn about the fascinating history of this breathtaking land from your Capetonian guide as you begin the spectacular sea-side drive to the quaint village of Hout Bay.
Visit Boulders Beach, a nearby nature preserve that is home to a colony of African penguins. Wrapping up your day’s adventure, tour the idyllic Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a sprawling park brimming with rare and exotic plant-life that is surely one the finest examples of botany the world over.
Franschhoek
Enjoy a private transfer between Cape Town and Franschhoek.
Visit the sprawling townships around Cape Town where projects being funded through Uthando programs are underway. On this outing, you will visit at least three of the social development projects. These visits offer a unique and authentic introduction to the social problems confronting so many South Africans while also illustrating the innovative and inspirational ways in which these issues are being overcome. The projects are not treated as tourist attractions and the tours are designed to educate, inform and inspire while also respecting the dignity and privacy of the people affected. A portion of your tour price goes directly to Uthando charities.
Enjoy a private transfer between Cape Town and Franschhoek.
Whether you’re looking for sophistication or a laid back fine dining experience, Franschhoek has something to satisfy your taste. Aspiring young chefs flock to this postcard perfect village in the heart of the Cape Winelands to work alongside industry veterans in a collection of renowned restaurants and wine estates that make Franschhoek a true gastronomic gem.
Franschhoek
Set off through the Winelands; a delightful drive which winds its way through superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads.
Your first stop is Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, with canal lined avenues, and magnificent examples of Cape Dutch architecture where you will enjoy your first wine tasting, coupled with a chocolate and dessert tasting.
Onward over the scenic Helshoogte Pass, to Franschhoek, founded by French Huguenots over 350 years ago, and widely regarded as the culinary capital of South Africa. Its beautiful setting and café lined streets will charm you, and a further wine tasting is included at one of the renowned estates here.
Your final stop is at the town of Paarl, at the foot of a cluster of remarkable granite domes where you enjoy your final wine tasting.
Franschhoek to Cape Town
Transfer to Cape Town Airport
Until we meet again!!
Da Vinci on Nelson Mandela Square
The Da Vinci Hotel and Suites is a contemporary masterpiece. This property is the Legacy Groups latest luxury hotel developed in a prime location of Nelson Mandela Square.
This is Legacy's fourth hotel on the cosmopolitan square in the heart of the Sandton business and leisure district. One could speak of the opulence of the rooms, the restaurant and lounge, pioneering fitness centre and health spa but to truly understand all of this, you'll need to come and see it for yourself.
Guests can enjoy the convenience of luxurious shopping at the Legacy Corner Mall and Sandton City just an elevator trip away. The Da Vinci offers 166 luxurious hotel rooms which meet all of the wants and needs of the discerning traveller, whether your trip is for business or pleasure.
With a unique open plan yet comfortably private layout, guests will be taken back by the sheer opulence.
Kapama Private Game Reserve
Kapama River Lodge offers the epitome in luxurious safari accommodations. With the majestic Drakensberg Mountains as a backdrop to this 64-suite River Lodge, and positioned along a bend of the seasonal Kapama River, it’s the largest luxury game lodge in the Greater Kruger area.
Stylishly furnished to ensure an unforgettable African safari experience, the lodge features contemporary African decor in thatched lounges that create a cavernous effect. Open-concept designs extend to the pool deck where a large rim-flow pool looks outward to a waterhole that is frequented by the incredible range of animals that live within the Kapama Reserve.
Relax in luxury at Kapama River Lodge, the ideal host for an unforgettable safari escape.
Taj Cape Town
Taj Cape Town is a luxury hotel set in the vibrant heart of Cape Town, offering guests a combination of refined Indian hospitality and an authentic Cape Town experience.
Occupying two historic buildings, it retains the architecture and many meticulously restored interior features of the original South African Reserve Bank and the old BoE building – formerly the Temple Chambers, built in 1890. The rooms combine old-world quality and modern amenities.
As well as the gamut of facilities that guests would expect in a luxury hotel room such as a mini-bar, safe, voicemail and international plug sockets, standard features include high-speed wireless internet, an iPod docking station and charger, an internet-enabled television and a work station with a multi-media hub so laptops can be interfaced with the television.
The Franschhoek Country House & Villas
The Franschhoek Country House & Villas is a 5 star hotel located in the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, just 1 km from the main town.
Voted as one of South Africa’s top restaurants, Monneaux Restaurant features a contemporary take on Mediterranean classics influenced by local Cape Malay flavours. Sample some of the mouth-watering wines from the underground cellar, showcasing local and international bottles.
Relax and unwind with a range of spa treatments by qualified professional staff at the on-site spa. Lounge out by the two outdoor swimming pools and enjoy the panoramic views of the surrounding area. Reception staff at Franschhoek Country House & Villas are happy to arrange a variety of activities for guests, such as wine tours, wine tasting on horseback, golf and more.
There are 4 lunches and 2 dinners included. We want you to experience on your own the many fabulous restaurants these destinations have to offer.
Itinerary and accommodations are subject to change without notice.
TRIP COSTS:
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Book your reservations now!
Terms and Conditions:
A $2,090.00 per person (for double occupancy) non-refundable deposit is required when booking your reservation (based on double occupancy). This deposit is non-refundable if you cancel your reservation.
The deposits are needed to secure the private safaris and private lodge and other accommodations.
We highly recommend you protect your investment by purchasing Travel Protection/Insurance. Quotes can be provided once you book.
Your reservation will not be confirmed until deposits have been received for all parties on the reservation. Initial deposits must be made by credit card only.
Payment schedules can be arranged (monthly or custom payments).
Final payments are due by June 24, 2024.
Guests are required to adhere to the payment plan selected until balance is fully paid.
LATE PAYMENT POLICY FOR INSTALLMENT PAYMENTS
Customers on the installment plan are required to make regular payments in accordance with the selected payment plan. If an account becomes 15 days past due, the customer may lose their room assignment and their reservation will be suspended. If an account becomes 30 days past due, the reservation will be automatically canceled and all payments forfeited.
FEES FOR RESERVATION CHANGES
Changes made to an existing reservation will be subject to a $125 change fee.
AGE RESTRICTIONS
Passengers must be 21 years of age or older for this private journey.
Availability is limited and will sell out very quickly.
Travel arrangements coordinated through Kensington Tours.
Other restrictions may apply.
Prior to take off we will have a Bon Voyage get together (may be virtual) that will set you on the right track for preparing for your trip!
Do I have to participate in all of the activities? Of course not! Each private event has been arranged. However, you can opt-out of any event. (Please note however, there will not be any monetary credits made for opting out in scheduled event).
Can I stay longer? If you are looking to extend your stay on either end of your trip we are happy to offer suggestions and recommendations!
Will I need a passport? Yes. All guests traveling with a valid passport must have at least six (6) months validity during your trip.
Are vaccinations required? No vaccinations are required or mandatory at this time. But the Kruger is in an area with malaria, so we highly recommend anti-malarial for South Africa. Seek professional medical advice.
What will I need to know about booking my room if I have a roommate? When you book your double occupancy room, please read the following information regarding roommate reservations:
If you and your roommate(s) will be paying separate deposits, your reservation cannot be completed until all roommate deposits are received. If your roommate is unknown at the time of booking, your reservation will be booked as a single-occupancy. A fee for changes will apply if adding a new roommate after 15 days of the original reservation date.
Who can I talk to, I have more questions? We are always happy to jump on a call and speak with you! In fact we would LOVE it! Just email hello@tilliejamestravel.com and we will get a call set up right away for you! Or call us at 804.997.9460.