Following a relaxed morning meal, embark on a journey to the awe-inspiring Cango Caves, a global marvel carved meticulously by time and nature. Later, relish a wine tasting session amidst the picturesque backdrop of the Schoemanshoek Valley at a renowned wine estate. Conclude your day in Oudtshoorn with an engaging tour of a bustling Ostrich Farm.

Following breakfast, traverse the Outeniqua Pass to George, one of South Africa’s historic jewels adorned with landmarks like the Slave Tree and the Edwardian masterpiece, King Edward VII Library building. Continuing through Wilderness, a picturesque resort town, we arrive in Knysna, the pearl of the Garden Route, celebrated for its oysters and pristine lagoon. Delve deep into the enchanting Knysna Forests, once the haunt of the now elusive Knysna elephants, learning about the legacy of its woodcutters, the tragic fate of the elephants, and tales of gold discovery. Honor the memory of author Dalene Matthee at the Big Tree Memorial, a majestic 880-year-old Yellowwood. As the journey unfolds, savor a sumptuous lunch featuring regional delicacies.

Today, immerse yourself in the Garden Route’s splendid natural offerings. Embark on a visit to Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary, a remarkable haven where various primates roam freely amidst the dense forest. Esteemed for its rehabilitation initiatives for previously confined primates, this award-winning sanctuary has pledged a portion from the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience fees to bolster the survival and future reintroduction of these endangered species. This effort aligns seamlessly with the UN Global Goal 15: Life on Land. Your exploration then leads you to the iconic Eastern Head, offering awe-inspiring vistas of the Knysna Heads, contingent upon the weather. From there, journey to Brenton on Sea, a pristine oasis renowned for its untouched beaches and serene ambiance. Enjoy the remainder of your day at your leisure.

Journey to Plettenberg Bay, the Garden Route’s gem, and explore the Birds of Eden sanctuary, the world’s largest single free-flight aviary. This sanctuary fosters a haven for African birds, ensuring their free-flight in a safe realm. A share of the MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience’s cost aids in the conservation of genetically pure species, preparing them for future re-wilding—echoing the essence of UN Global Goal 15: Life on Land. The adventure proceeds to the Bloukrans Bridge, a marvel in engineering and home to the world’s highest commercial Bungy Jump. Concluding the day, you’ll venture into Tsitsikamma National Park and the Storms River Mouth, if weather permits. Embrace the rugged coastline, the lush forests, and the deep river gorges of the Tsitsikamma, a natural tapestry of beauty and wilderness.

Venture east through the lush Tsitsikamma Forest towards Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), often dubbed the “friendly city”. Proceed to Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport for your flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted and escorted to your hotel. The rest of the day is set aside for your relaxation (unescorted).

Dedicate an entire day to delving into Soweto and its surroundings, where pivotal moments in the fight against apartheid took place. Begin with a drive by the FNB Stadium, or Soccer City, host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final and the location of Nelson Mandela’s inaugural speech in Johannesburg post his 1990 prison release. Journey through Diepkloof, residence of Soweto’s elite, before proceeding to Kliptown, the site where the Freedom Charter was proclaimed in 1955. Pass by the influential Regina Mundi Church, and then navigate Vilakazi Street, renowned for housing two Nobel laureates, Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. The day culminates with visits to the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum, paying tribute to the students’ role in the anti-apartheid movement, followed by the enlightening Apartheid Museum, detailing South Africa’s apartheid history.

Savor a day at your own pace and without guidance. You might consider embarking on a journey to Maropeng, the renowned Cradle of Humankind (optional, at your own expense), or indulge in some retail therapy at Nelson Mandela Square, a hub of diverse shops and boutiques to suit every preference and budget.

This morning, we’ll retrieve you from your hotel and set course eastward to the renowned Mpumalanga region. Once you’ve settled and refreshed at your lodge, we’ll journey into the iconic Kruger National Park. Here, inside the safety of your enclosed tour vehicle, you’ll be privy to some of the world’s most exceptional game viewing experiences. As we traverse this vast reserve, you’ll gain insight into the complexities of maintaining such a unique ecosystem. Conclude your thrilling day in the Kruger with a taste of regional dishes at your accommodation.

Start your day with an invigorating cup of tea or coffee before embarking on an exhilarating open vehicle safari through Kruger National Park, accompanied by an English-speaking ranger. As you explore, relish a pre-packed breakfast while your guide aims to grace you with the sight of the “Big Five”, various other wildlife, and a diverse array of bird species.

For those interested, there’s an opportunity, subject to availability and at an additional cost, to delve deeper into the operations of the Kruger Park Anti-Poaching Dog Unit. These specialist dogs are trained to track poachers and detect illegal items like firearms and wildlife products. A segment of the cost for this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience contributes to the superior care these dogs receive, recognizing their crucial role in conservation. This initiative directly supports UN Global Goal 15: Life on Land.

After a thrilling morning, return to the lodge for an optional lunch and brief rest. The afternoon promises another enchanting journey through the Kruger’s rich biodiversity. Revel in spotting the Big Five and other exquisite species from the comfort of your enclosed tour vehicle. If you wish, open vehicle game drives are also available at an extra charge.

Savor your breakfast before embarking on a journey through the renowned Panorama Route, a region celebrated for its captivating vistas, stunning terrains, and cascading waterfalls. Marvel at iconic landmarks like God’s Window, the Three Rondavels, and the Blyde River Canyon, the world’s third-largest canyon of its kind. Delve into the geological intrigue of Bourke’s Luck Potholes and visit Graskop, a village steeped in history as one of the country’s initial gold mining encampments. For those with a penchant for wildlife, optional open vehicle game drives are on offer at an additional cost, providing an alternative to the Panorama Route exploration.

After relishing your breakfast, commence the journey back to Johannesburg. Upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport around 14h30, your tour concludes.