South Africa with Lex

Let's raise a glass and toast to an exciting trip ahead during your welcome dinner! Tonight's gathering will take place at a local restaurant, just a brief 10-minute transfer from the hotel. The evening promises an immersive experience that will take you on a 14-dish tasting, paired with traditional Mali puppets and music entertainment. Please note that beverages are not included, but can be purchased at the venue. The specific restaurant will be determined by your on-site guide.

Meet your host and connect with your fellow travelers at the hotel.

Overnight in Cape Town

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

Depart the hotel and take a private transfer to Boulder's Beach.

Boulders Penguin Colony is home to a growing colony of the vulnerable African Penguin. You will be able to view the penguins in their natural habitat from the wooden walkways, and you'll also be able to learn more about these amazing birds by stopping in the information center.

A scenic private transfer will guide you through the captivating landscapes of Table Mountain National Park.

After your transfer, you'll arrive at the Cape of Good Hope, the southwestern tip of Africa, also referred to as Cape Point. Here, immerse yourself in the historically significant site that once captivated antique ocean explorers. Take in the stunning vistas while exploring the rugged coastline, and ascend a lengthy staircase to reach the majestic lighthouse, offering an imposing panoramic view of the surroundings. Following this exploration, indulge in some leisurely free time to relish local cuisine at seaside restaurants. Please note that lunch is at your own expense and should be a quick meal to seamlessly continue with the tour. After lunch, the adventure continues with a visit to Table Mountain, a natural marvel dominating Cape Town's skyline. Ascend to the summit aboard the cable car, an exhilarating journey that unfolds breathtaking panoramic vistas before your eyes. Each car accommodates 65 travelers, providing a swift 4–5 minute ascent. During the journey, the car floors rotate 360 degrees, offering a panoramic view of the ascent or descent. Upon reaching the summit, revel in ample free time to wander and soak in the coastal views and surrounding landscapes. After approximately one hour, descend via the cable car and take the transfer back to your hotel, arriving in the late afternoon.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After an early breakfast, pack your luggage and prepare to check out of the hotel. Then, jump into the vehicle and enjoy a scenic 2-hour drive from Cape Town to Elgin Valley, where you'll enjoy a thrilling zipline activity. Please keep in mind that the transfer duration may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Arrive in Elgin Valley -- a lush area nestled amidst majestic mountains. Prepare for an exhilarating stop at Cape Canopy, your destination for an incredible zipline adventure. The experience comprises eleven thrilling slides, some spanning over 985 feet, each culminating on a platform perched atop the cliffs overlooking the awe-inspiring Riviersonderend Gorge. A highlight of this adventure is the unique suspension bridge, traversing a narrow sandstone ravine above a magnificent double waterfall -- a sight sure to etch itself into your memory! Trained guides will accompany each group on the approximately 4-hour tour. To ensure smooth logistics, groups larger than 8 travelers will run in concurrent half-hour timeslots, accommodating 8 people per slot. At the reception area, a cozy coffee shop awaits, offering a delightful cup of coffee, complimentary Wi-Fi, and additional drinks and snacks for purchase. Please note, reaching the zipline area requires a 4x4 ride followed by a 1-mile hike. This thrilling activity, unfortunately, is not suitable for pregnant individuals, and has a weight limit of 265 pounds. It is also not recommended for those with a fear of heights. After completing the zipline adventure, restroom facilities are available at the entrance before you rejoin the vehicle to continue your transfer to Hermanus.

Following your zipline tour, resume the transfer for another 2-hour drive to Hermanus. A midday stop at a charming farm stall is planned, allowing you the opportunity to enjoy lunch at your own expense. Please keep in mind that the transfer duration may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.

Overnight in Hermanus

Breakfast is included at the hotel, or you will be provided a breakfast box. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After an early breakfast, pack your luggage and prepare to check out of the hotel. Then, jump into the vehicle, and enjoy a scenic 1.5 hour drive from Hermanus to Gansbaii, where the optional shark cage dive activity takes place. Following this optional shark cage dive, the transfer resumes for another 4-hour drive to your lodge at Albertinia. A gas station stop along the route is planned, where you can purchase sandwiches and drinks for your lunch. Please keep in mind that the transfer duration may vary depending on traffic and weather conditions.

After settling into the lodge, you'll have some free time to relax and unwind. As the sun begins its descent, prepare for an immersive safari adventure aboard 4x4 jeeps, each accommodating a maximum of 10 passengers. Led by expert guides, the journey traverses rugged terrain, offering a glimpse into the breathtaking beauty of the African wilderness. Lasting approximately 2 hours, the safari unfolds amidst the captivating golden hues of the setting sun, painting the landscape with a mesmerizing glow. This excursion provides your first opportunity to witness the majestic Big Five – lions, elephants, buffaloes, leopards, and rhinoceroses – thriving in their natural habitat. Throughout the safari, ample opportunities arise to observe and photograph these magnificent creatures. Guides will share insights into their behaviors, habitats, and the dedicated conservation efforts aimed at preserving these incredible animals. As the sun sets, temperatures may begin to drop, creating a cooler atmosphere. It's advisable to wear warm clothing for comfort during the safari. During the activity, complimentary snacks and soft drinks are provided. Following the safari, return to the lodge for a delightful dinner.

After concluding your sunset safari, you'll have a few minutes to freshen up before gathering with your fellow travelers at the lodge's restaurant. Dinner is served buffet-style, offering a variety of authentic African dishes for you to savor and enjoy. Please note that beverages are not included, but may be purchased at the restaurant at your own expense. The specific offerings may vary depending on your confirmed lodge.

After breakfast, both those participating in the optional shark cage diving activity and those opting out will travel together in the same vehicle for a transfer to Gansbaai, a charming fishing village. For those not partaking in the shark cage diving experience, free time awaits to explore the town by foot, unwind at the wild beaches, or enjoy a relaxing coffee at a local café. Travelers joining the shark dive will board a public boat for a 3-hour cruise. Onboard, a guide will conduct a briefing session, providing safety instructions and an overview of the upcoming dive. Participants will be fitted with wetsuits, gloves, boots, life jackets, and snorkeling gear, preparing them for this incredible encounter with the sharks. Upon reaching the shark diving location, participants will enter a secure cage attached to the boat. Small groups of a maximum of 9 travelers take turns entering the cage. As the sharks swim nearby, participants have a remarkable opportunity to observe these majestic creatures in their natural environment. For those not entering the cage, there's the option to observe the predators from the outside area of the boat. After the dive, access to a boat shower allows for a quick rinse, followed by a change into dry clothes. Please note, this adventure requires participants to be comfortable in the water and may not suit individuals prone to seasickness. Additionally, shark sightings are never guaranteed due to their presence in their natural habitat. Strict safety measures ensure a secure and respectful interaction with the sharks. The diving experience concludes at the harbor, where participants will reunite with fellow travelers to continue the drive to the Albertinia accommodation.

Overnight in Albertinia.

Set your alarms early for a unique experience as you embark on the second safari of your South African adventure. Today the game drive activity starts before sunrise; and unlike the previous evening's sunset safari, this time you'll witness the awakening savanna. The morning light casts a different ambiance, offering a chance to spot an array of wildlife distinct from those seen during the evening hours. Board the safari vehicle as the dawn breaks, and keep your eyes peeled for animals that prefer the cooler temperatures of the morning, which might include various antelope species, zebras, giraffes, and perhaps elusive predators starting their day. To keep you warm and energized during the safari, hot drinks and snacks will be provided. After 2 hours, return to the lodge where a hearty breakfast awaits. It's also time to check out of the hotel, and then jump into the vehicle for your journey to Plettenberg Bay.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After breakfast at the lodge, it's time to embark on your journey towards Plettenberg Bay. Anticipate arriving around noon, where your first stop will be at a recommended restaurant selected by your guide. Here, you'll have the opportunity to enjoy lunch at your leisure. Following lunch, proceed to your hotel for check-in and some time to freshen up.

Overnight in Plettenberg Bay.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After breakfast, a quick 30-minute transfer will whisk you from Plettenberg Bay to two animal sanctuaries. The first stop is Monkeyland, an innovative haven where more than 550 primates roam freely. Here, you will find glimpses of diverse species like Capuchin Monkeys and Ring-tailed Lemurs. An impressive 128-meter suspension bridge offers a captivating forest canopy view. The sanctuary not only shelters rescued primates but also reintroduces endangered species into the wild. Exploring Monkeyland's flat trails typically takes about 1 hour. Next, a brief 5-minute stroll connects you to Birds of Eden Sanctuary. Hosting over 220 bird species and providing a haven for 3,500 birds, this sanctuary stands out for its commitment to bird welfare. The diverse aviary, housing exotic and African birds, showcases varied habitats, ensuring a holistic experience for bird species. About an hour's exploration along the sanctuary's walkways awaits! Both sanctuaries offer cafes and restroom facilities. Remember, touching or feeding the animals is strictly prohibited. After these visits, your journey continues to Robberg Beach for a snorkeling activity. En route, a brief stop at a local restaurant offers you the opportunity to enjoy a quick and satisfying lunch, at your own expense.

After visiting the sanctuaries, a 30-minute transfer will take you to Robberg Beach. Before reaching the beach, you'll stop at a local restaurant for lunch at your expense. Upon arrival at the beach, you'll be provided with a wetsuit, mask, and fins. Following a safety briefing and instructions from your guide, a 20-minute boat ride will bring you close to Plett’s colony of Brown Fur Seals in their natural habitat. Situated in the Robberg Nature Reserve, the seal colony eagerly welcomes visitors, showcasing their acrobatic skills and playful nature upon your arrival. These Brown Fur Seals are friendly and enjoy interaction, showcasing pure joy as they engage with guests. It's advised not to tug back if they playfully interact with your equipment to avoid startling them. The seal swimming adventure is safe, requiring no prior skills. After enjoying your time in the water, you'll return to the beach. Changing facilities will be available for you to switch into dry clothes, followed by a short 10-minute transfer back to your hotel.

Overnight in Plettenberg Bay.

After enjoying breakfast and checking out of the hotel, you'll head to the Robberg Nature Reserve with a short 15-minute drive. Upon arrival, your guide will lead you along pathways and sandy trails that wind through the reserve. The trails here cater to various skill levels and timeframes, with the most common trail extending for around 3.5 miles. This trail leads to the spectacular Witsand dune, offering panoramic views of the coastline and frequent opportunities to spot wildlife like seals, dolphins, and diverse bird species. The Robberg Coastal Trail promises an adventure that blends natural beauty with thrilling wildlife encounters, making it a must for nature enthusiasts and avid hikers. Make sure to carry ample water, wear hats, apply sunscreen, and opt for sturdy hiking shoes. Be ready for potential weather changes along the way. Restrooms are available at the parking area. Once you've concluded your hiking experience, you'll hop back into the vehicle to begin your transfer to Oudtshoorn.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After the hike at Robberg Nature Reserve, it's time to continue your journey toward Oudtshoorn. Expect to arrive early in the afternoon, with the Cango Caves as your first stop. Please note that there will not be a restaurant stop available for lunch today, but there will be opportunities for gas station stops where you can purchase snacks and beverages.

Upon arrival in Oudtshoorn, your journey begins with a captivating exploration of the Cango Caves before your hotel check-in. These subterranean marvels greet you with towering limestone formations and an irresistible air of mystery. Your adventure kicks off with a guided tour, leading you through a complex network of caverns. Renowned for their extraordinary dripstone formations, these caves exhibit a mesmerizing showcase of stalactites and stalagmites. Meandering through narrow passages and vast chambers, the magnificent formations, meticulously shaped over centuries, command attention with their sheer scale and intricate allure. Please note that this excursion involves traversing thrilling passages and narrow tunnels, requiring a reasonable level of physical fitness. Prepare to crawl, slide, and climb—immersing yourself fully in the art of spelunking. The duration of the activity spans approximately 1.5 hours. Once you have finished, a brief 30-minute transfer will whisk you away to your hotel.

Overnight in Oudtshoorn.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.

After breakfast and hotel check-out, we'll begin our transfer to Cape Town. After 3 hours, we'll make a stop at a local winery, nestled in a beautiful natural setting. Following your winery visit, we'll continue our journey with another 2.5-hour transfer, arriving at the Cape Town hotel in the late afternoon.

After a 3-hour drive, we'll pause at the boutique Van Loveren Winery, nestled in a stunning natural setting. Your guide will teach you the winemaking process, from the vineyards to the glass. Explore the nuances of three different wine varieties during the tasting, discovering their distinctive flavors. Feel free to wander the gardens and revel in the winery's beauty. The winery offers a restaurant where you can opt for lunch at your expense. Please note, the specific winery may vary based on availability. As time for lunch is limited, it's advisable to enjoy a quick meal to continue our journey to Cape Town.

In the evening, a brief 20-minute transfer will take you to a local restaurant to enjoy your farewell dinner with fellow travelers. The evening promises a delightful three course set menu, offering a taste of the most authentic African flavors. Please note that beverages are not included, but may be purchased at the venue at your own expense. The specific restaurant will be determined by your on-site guide.

Overnight in Cape Town.

Breakfast is included at the hotel. Typical hotel breakfasts are continental, full/American, or buffet style. The exact breakfast offered will be determined by your finalized hotel.