Stars of South Africa

Prepare for the perfect combination of incredible wildlife viewing, culturally rich and historic cities, and an abundance of natural wonders. The “Rainbow Nation’s” colourful city, Cape Town, provides the perfect entrée to your southern African adventure before flying north to your four-­night Chobe River safari cruise. Roam among the gentle giants at Chobe National Park and then travel to Victoria Falls to soak up the sights and sounds of one of the world’s largest waterfalls for two nights. Fly to Johannesburg, a sprawling city of remarkable contrasts, for two nights, and conclude your epic adventure in Greater Kruger National Park, home to the “Big Five.” Be treated to every imaginable wildlife sighting on twice-­daily game drives led by the most passionate and knowledgeable guides all while staying in unmatched style at either Tintswalo or Makanyi luxury safari lodges, both offering exceptional amenities, service and cuisine.

South Africa awaits!  Won’t you join us?

 

Joe & Zaneta Rochemont

Co-Founders, Cruise Holidays of Clarkson | Clarkson Travel

What You’ll Love About This Journey

The opportunity to see the Big Five animals in their natural habitat

Being immersed in the culture of the South African people and especially enjoying the special Africa themed evening on the Zambezi Queen!

Enhanced knowledge of apartheid and the sacrifices made by Nelson Mandela and his family

Interacting with the local guides and gamekeepers and learning their stories

Being with like-minded travellers and sharing photographs and stories of your Big Five encounters!

Marvelling at Victoria Falls ... our own Niagara bears no comparison!

Journey Itinerary

DAY 1 | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

October 22, 2027Welcome Reception

Welcome to Cape Town. Situated amidst majestic mountains and lined with pristine beaches, Cape Town has a rich cultural heritage with extraordinary attractions. After being greeted at the airport by an AmaWaterways representative, you will be transferred to your Cape Town hotel. Get to know your Tour Director and fellow travellers at the Welcome Reception.

DAY 2 | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

October 23, 2027Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, . Embark on a full­-day exploration along one of the world’s most stunning routes, taking you past the 12 Apostles, Hout Bay and Chapman’s Peak. Stop at the Cape of Good Hope, first rounded in modern times in 1488 by the Portuguese in their attempt to establish trade in the Far East and still a significant landmark for sailors today. Visit Boulders Beach, home to thousands of African penguins, and then be treated to lunch with drinks overlooking beautiful False Bay.

DAY 3 | CAPE TOWN, SOUTH AFRICA

October 24, 2027Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, take a cableway up to Table Mountain followed by a trip to the Cape Winelands where you’ll visit two of its best vineyards, complete with wine tasting. A delicious lunch will be included along the way. You also have the choice to explore another side of Cape Town at famous Robben Island, once used as a prison for many political inmates, including Nelson Mandela. Ferry over to the island where you will take a tour led by a former inmate. Back in Cape Town, enjoy lunch, and then visit the colourful historic Bo Kaap neighborhood before boarding the cableway to Table Mountain’s summit.

Republic of South Africa. Cape Town (Kaapstad). Panoramic ocean view of the city, Signal Hill and Robben Island

Day 4 | CAPE TOWN - CHOBE - EMBARKATION

October 25, 2027Breakfast, Welcome Reception, Dinner

In the morning, transfer to the airport for a flight to Victoria Falls.  From here you will be transferred to the Chobe River that forms the border between Botswana and Namibia. Tender boats will transport you to the Zambezi Queen moored on the Namibia side of the river. Settle into your stateroom, enjoy a mid­-afternoon snack, and in the evening, be treated to a Welcome Cocktail Reception and Dinner.

DAY 5 | ZAMBEZI QUEEN - CHOBE

October 26, 2027Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Embark on an exhilarating, morning boat safari to explore the Chobe River’s diverse game viewing. Afterwards, return to the Zambezi Queen for lunch. As the Zambezi Queen cruises along the Chobe River, relax on board in the afternoon and enjoy what nature has to offer. Be sure to spend time in the splash pool or perhaps catch ­up with your favourite book. Later in the day, revel in panoramic view with another thrilling boat safari.

DAY 6 | ZAMBEZI QUEEN - CHOBE

October 27, 2027Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Join a full­ day safari of Chobe National Park in open-­top 4×4 vehicles. For lunch, take a seat under the trees and savour a delicious picnic.

Day 7 | ZAMBEZI QUEEN - CHOBE

October 28, 2027Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Visit a typical African village where you’ll spend time with the village children as well as its elders. Back on board and following lunch, you’ll have a choice to take a boat safari, bird watch or fish. Enjoy your last evening aboard with a festive African­ themed dinner hosted by your crew.

DAY 8 | DISEMBARKATION - VICTORIA FALLS

October 29, 2027Breakfast

Enjoy a morning cruise during breakfast and be on the lookout for wildlife. Afterward, transfer to the legendary Victoria Falls, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders. After hotel check in, Spend the afternoon exploring the town or experience the included helicopter flight over Victoria Falls for those who benefit from our early booking bonus. Later on, join a cocktail reception with appetizers aboard a vintage steam train and make your way to the Victoria Falls Bridge to watch the sunset over the Falls.

DAY 9 | VICTORIA FALLS

October 30, 2027Breakfast, Dinner

A local guide will take you on a tour of awe­-inspiring Victoria Falls. You’ll learn about its history, and the flora and fauna that make this area so unique. In the evening, embark on a private sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. Relax on board as you observe a variety of game while enjoying a delicious mix of tapas with drinks, followed by a special dinner with live local entertainment at the hotel.

DAY 10 | JOHANNESBURG

October 31, 2027Breakfast

Depart Victoria Falls for the flight to Johannesburg. Transfer to the Fairlawns Boutique Hotel with its park-like setting and wonderful Spa.

DAY 11 | JOHANNESBURG

November 1, 2027Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Get an in­depth look at Soweto’s unique neighbourhoods, the centre of the uprising against the apartheid state. Walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela, followed by a township lunch. Before dinner, gather with a local expert for an informative discussion and afterwards enjoy a multi-­course dinner.

DAY 12 | JOHANNESBURG TO KRUGER PARK

November 2, 2027Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Fly to Greater Kruger National Park in the morning where you’ll be transferred to your luxurious hotel, the Tintswalo Safari Lodge. During the afternoon, set out on a game drive in search of the country’s “Big Five” and other native wildlife. Spend your first night and every night, if you wish, gathering with fellow travellers, sharing stories of the day’s adventures.

DAY 13 | KRUGER PARK

November 3, 2027Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

The early morning is the perfect time to go on safari as the wildlife is usually prolific. Your open-­air vehicle provides the ideal way to explore your private game reserve, located just a stone’s throw from the game-­rich Kruger National Park. The rest of the morning can be spent enjoying the facilities at your lodge. Later in the afternoon, you’ll go on another game drive deep into the bush, where you may encounter South Africa’s top predators: cheetahs, hyenas and lions.

DAY 14 | KRUGER PARK

November 4, 2027Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Go on two exhilarating game drives today, as well as enjoy ample leisure time to relax and enjoy your game lodge.

DAY 15 | KRUGER - JOHANNESBURG

November 5, 2027Breakfast

Be treated to an early ­morning game drive before returning to the lodge for breakfast. Afterwards, transfer to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg for your connecting flight home, or ask about extending your journey further with four nights in magical Rwanda.

Note: Please do not schedule your onward flight before 4:30 p.m

ACCOMMODATIONS

Cape Grace Hotel (or comparable)

Cape Grace, A Fairmont Managed Hotel is a graceful icon, crafting bespoke journeys into the essence of Cape Town.

Standing at the heart of the V&A Waterfront,  Cape Grace is a timeless presence. With rooms gazing out onto the harbour, marina, or majestic silhouette of Table Mountain, this grand hotel feels as if it has always been part of the landscape of Cape Town.

The interiors of Cape Grace exude a sense of calm and belonging, embracing a sophisticated palette that invites you to unwind in luxury, and effortlessly bridging the divide between indoors and outdoors, each of the 113 spacious, elegantly appointed rooms and suites extend an invitation to the world beyond.

The Zambezi Queen

Designed specifically for wildlife viewing, the intimate 28-passenger Zambezi Queen made her debut in one of the world’s most captivating places, Africa’s legendary Chobe River. As she drifts along the river, animals perceive no threat, affording you with once-in-a-lifetime up-close game experiences. Additionally, to ensure no harm to the environment, the eco-friendly Zambezi Queen uses a water jet propulsion system, fuel-efficient and low-emission generators, and a solar heating system. An enclosed, air-conditioned dining room, lounge and bar grace the top deck, as well as an open-air Sun Deck complete with plunge pool. Suites feature private balconies where you can enjoy unobstructed views of the river and African landscape. All staterooms offer in-room temperature control & fan, deluxe hotel-style bedding, spacious ensuite bathrooms, a large wardrobe, full-length mirror, hair dryer, toiletries & slippers. Sliding shutters provide privacy and protection from the sun. Complimentary wifi is also offered. Throughout the day, be treated to complimentary South African wines, beer, local spirits, soft drinks and bottled water. And on one special night, enjoy an African-themed dinner with traditional dishes and entertainment.

Victoria Falls Hotel (or comparable)

The Victoria Falls Hotel, One of the world’s Classic five-star hotels commands a prime location overlooking Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, an acclaimed Natural Wonder of the World. The Edwardian-style hotel, built in 1904, was splendidly redecorated in 2013 to combine its traditional majesty with modern sophistication and for more than 110 years has been a luxury icon in Africa.  The property is renowned for impeccable service, luxurious accommodation and exceptional facilities, including complimentary wi-fi for all guests.

As befits Zimbabwe’s grandest and oldest luxury hotel, The Victoria Falls Hotel presents a connoisseur’s delight of dining options, with internationally-trained chefs creating exquisite dishes.  Both the famed, signature Livingstone Room and the thatched outdoor-style Jungle Junction restaurants offer the finest menu selections in town.  The hotel is renowned for its ever-cheerful staff and five-star service. A fine selection of wines and liqueurs is always available to suit the most discerning guests.

Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa (or comparable)

Nestled amidst lush, landscaped gardens in the heart of Johannesburg, Fairlawns Boutique Hotel and Spa is an urban sanctuary where refined luxury meets warm, personalised hospitality. With 42 bespoke suites individually styled to reflect global elegance, Fairlawns offers an intimate escape for discerning travellers and vibrant personalities alike.

From its world-class service to its serene garden setting, every detail is curated to create a sense of calm, comfort, and sophistication. Indulge in exquisite dining, unwind in the award-winning spa, and experience the charm of a boutique destination designed for those who appreciate the extraordinary.   (Or comparable hotel property)

Tintswalo Safari Lodge and Manor (or comparable)

Located in Manyeleti Nature Reserve, Kruger National Park, with an unfenced border adjoining the acclaimed Kruger National Park, Tintswalo Safari boasts one of the most minimal vehicle densities in Greater Kruger. Visitors revel in uninterrupted wildlife encounters amidst an unspoiled African wilderness. An epitome of opulent lodging and hospitality, Tintswalo Safari presents six Explorer Suites, along with the spacious Baines Presidential Suite and the Grant Family Suite comprising two bedrooms.

Tintswalo Safari is recognised as a superior 5-star safari destination.

Your Experience Includes

Complimentary private limo transfer from your home in the GTA to Pearson International or an $80 per booking credit.

Transfers to & from airports, hotels and the Zambezi Queen as part of the group itinerary

3 nights hotel accommodation including breakfast in Cape Town (Cape Grace Hotel or equivalent)

2 nights hotel accommodation including breakfast in Victoria Falls (Victoria Falls Hotel or equivalent)

2 nights hotel accommodation including breakfast in Johannesburg (Fairlawns Boutique Hotel or equivalent)

3 nights hotel accommodation for Greater Kruger Park (Tintswalo Safari Lodge or equivalent with full board)

4 Night river cruise on the Zambezi Queen

Daily shore excursions as outlined on both cruise and land tours

All meals included during the cruise

Other meals as specified

Complimentary South African wines, beer, local spirits, soft drinks and bottled water while on board.

Complimentary cocktails nightly during Happy Hour and Captain’s Receptions while onboard

Complimentary bottled water onboard.

Complimentary Wifi

Pre paid gratuities  for the cruise … the Cruise Manager,  Zambezi Queen crew and staff.

Exclusions

International Airfare and baggage fees

Internal domestic flights within the itinerary

Additional excursions and meals other than those indicated

Upgraded and non-included beverages

Gratuities for other tour guides

Travel Insurance

Why Travel With Cruise Holidays of Clarkson | Clarkson Travel

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Curated Departures & Added Value Amenities

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