Gourmet South Africa: Wine & Safari

Day 1 Welcome to Cape Town!

Arrive in colorful Cape Town! Meet your transfer at the airport and enjoy a scenic ride to your luxurious hotel. Be sure to look out the car window - you'll catch yourself gawking at the towering mountains as you pass by!

Settle in, then get exploring! Spend your first evening getting lost in the fun of the V&A Waterfront. This charming area is chock-full-of restaurants, bars, shops, and more! Snap your fingers as you walk by street performers, feel the beat of culture-rich drum circles, and enjoy breathtaking views of majestic Table Mountain. Watch boats float by on the bright blue water and take a ride on the giant Ferris Wheel that overlooks glistening Cape Town.

On your first night, treat yourself to a crisp glass of Crouchen, or Cape Riesling! If you're in the mood for a red, go for a local Pinotage or Shiraz. Dive right into the culture of the city and try its most famous flavorful dish: Chakalaka!

Day 2 Cape Town

After a rejuvenating breakfast, embark on your half-day city tour! Make your way up iconic Table Mountain, walk through the Company Gardens, and learn the history of this fascinating city.

While it's hard to beat Table Mountain, its neighbor mountain, Lion's Head, comes close. Take an easy-moderate hike up and enjoy some of the most spectacular views in the city!

In the afternoon, consider heading to the breathtaking Kirstenbosch National Gardens! Wander through overwhelming beauty and take priceless photos that will make everyone back home jealous. Cross the adventurous canopy foot bridge, discover rare flora & fauna, and feel tiny in the shadow of massive mountains. 

Tonight, enjoy a decadent 3-course dinner at renowned Constantia Uitsig. Spend the rest of your evening on trendy Kloof Street. Find a relaxed, yet chic atmosphere filled with restaurants, bars, and hip nightlife. 

Day 3 Cape Town

Enjoy an energizing breakfast, grab your camera, and get ready for adventure! Today you'll set off on an unforgettable journey down the picture-perfect Cape Peninsula. Be sure to take some photos with South Africa's cutest residents - the Boulders Beach African Penguins!

Tonight, enjoy a gourmet 3-course dinner at the elegant Roundhouse Restaurant.

Day 4 Cape Town - Franschhoek

Cherish your last morning in Cape Town, then enjoy a scenic ride to the beautiful village of Franschhoek, tucked away in the valley of the Cape Winelands. 

After settling into your elegant wine country hotel, take a stroll down bustling Huguenot Road. This quaint main street is lined with outdoor cafes, small shops, markets, and - of course - spectacular views of the surrounding mountains.

Day 5 Franschhoek

Say "cheers" to an amazing tour of the Cape Winelands today! Enjoy breathtaking landscapes while you sip the smooth flavors of the region.

Be sure to try South Africa's signature red: Pinotage! With a woody, smokey undertone, it pairs perfectly with Bobotie, Biryani, Braii, and other delicious, local dishes. 

Day 6 Franschhoek - Gansbaai

Wind past the vines and drive onward to Gansbaai, a scenic seaside town on the Whale Coast!

Settle into your luxurious accommodation, then explore the town. Treat yourself to an authentic South African dinner at any of the renowned restaurants in the area.

Day 7 Gansbaai

Enjoy a pleasant breakfast, then spend your day leisurely exploring the area. Head to Walker Bay Reserve and watch white-caps form on the vast blue-green ocean. Feel awe-struck by the natural wonders of the area, which include cliffs, hidden caves, gorgeous beaches, rare plant life, mountains, and more!

If you're the ultimate thrill seeker, you might want to consider shark cage diving. Come face-to-face with magnificent Great Whites in their natural habitats!

Today, you'll be treated to lunch at the picturesque Creation Wine Estate, where you'll enjoy a perfect pairing menu with local wines.

Day 8 Gansbaai - Kruger National Park

Take one last look at the Whale Coast's sparkling seascape, then get ready for the moment you've been waiting for - it's safari time! After breakfast, you'll be transferred to Cape Town International Airport (CPT) for a quick flight to Skukuza.

Upon arrival, meet your transfer and be on your way to world-renowned Kruger National Park, where the Big 5 call home. Tonight, enjoy a delicious dinner at your luxurious lodge, then embark on your first safari drive! 

Day 9 Kruger National Park

Wake up in the wild! Pack your camera and set off on your morning safari. Look out for elephants, rhinos, lions, and more! Why not take a selfie with a giraffe? Now that's a profile picture!

After an exciting morning, indulge in a delicious lunch at the lodge. Explore the gorgeous grounds, then get ready for your second safari drive of the day! Keep your eyes peeled for leopards, buffalo, and other famous residents.

Day 10 Kruger National Park

Make the most of your last day in the South African brush. Spot some rare bird species and see African wild game run by! Embark on your daily morning and evening safari drives and enjoy scrumptious lunch and dinner in-between.

Make sure you have room left on your camera! There's always tons of new things to see each day in Kruger. 

Day 11 Depart South Africa

Squeeze all your souvenirs into your luggage and pack your bags. Enjoy a comfortable transfer to Skukuza Airport for your flight to Johannesburg, where you will then connect with your international flight home.

Wave goodbye to the beauty of South Africa, until next time, and spend your flight home dreaming about your next adventure.