12 Days in South Africa: Wine, Wildlife & Safari
We can't possibly be the only ones who've had an African safari on our bucket list for years. So, we thought a trip away from the dark Nordic winter and down to sunny South Africa might be just what you need.
We've put together a 12-day journey with 11 nights for two adults and two children, taking you from Cape Town along the beautiful Garden Route and onwards to the safari reserves of the Eastern Cape.
This is just a sample, so contact us to tailor this trip to your interests on travel@journeys.no.
Days 1–3: Cape Town, Beautiful Nature & Wine
The first three nights are spent in Cape Town, staying at The President Hotel.
The Cape Winelands are home to some excellent New World wine producers, many of which welcome visitors for tastings. For example, some friends of ours have visited Ken Forrester Vineyards near Stellenbosch and had a fantastic time. We've only tried the wines, but they're ridiculously good.
There are also guided hikes to Table Mountain and around the Cape Peninsula, if you fancy walking off those few glasses of wine.
Days 4–5: Lekkerwater Beach Lodge, De Hoop Nature Reserve
Next, you head to Lekkerwater Beach Lodge in De Hoop Nature Reserve. This beautiful lodge has six kilometres of white sandy beach right on its doorstep. The area is also famous for its whales, which visit the coast during the South African winter and spring. If you're lucky, you might even spot one from the lodge during the season.
If you're up for a longer excursion, there's also the famous Cango Caves, an impressive cave system filled with stalactites and stalagmites. Not for the claustrophobic, though!
Days 6–8: The Plettenberg, Garden Route
The journey continues along the famous Garden Route, with beautiful coastal scenery and small towns along the way. You'll stay at The Plettenberg, where you'll have your own 150 m² (1,615 sq ft) Beach House.
The area is also known for its marine wildlife, so a boat safari is recommended! Remember, the seasons are reversed in the Southern Hemisphere, so December and January are summer months and the whales have moved on. It's a great time to spot dolphins, and the boat trip also takes you past the nearby Robberg Seal Colony, home to more than 5,000 seals.
Days 9–12: Safari in the Eastern Cape
And now for the grand finale. Three nights at Founders Lodge, where the focus shifts from the coastline to the African bush. You'll stay in a Contemporary Room with a private veranda overlooking the surrounding landscape.
The programme includes guided game drives, with opportunities to spot the famous Big Five, as well as guided bush walks where you'll learn about the smaller things that make this ecosystem so fascinating. Birds, insects, plants and animal tracks all have their own stories.
For the younger adventurers, there's also the Bear Grylls Survival Academy, where children can learn practical outdoor skills and survival techniques.
Founders Lodge also has a strong focus on wildlife conservation, including the protection of endangered rhinos. Depending on the activities available during your stay, there may be opportunities to learn more about the conservation work taking place in the area.
Phew! Not a bad way to finish 12 days in South Africa.
Practical Information & Pricing
This itinerary is based on a self-drive holiday between the destinations, giving you the freedom to explore at your own pace. Private transfers can also be arranged at an additional cost.
Estimated price: NOK 42,000 per person
This offer is valid until 15 January. The price excludes international flights and private transfers. Selected meals are included.
Contact Greta at travel@journeys.no to start planning your South African adventure.
