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Escape to the transcendent region of South Africa. Let its elegance engulf you as you traverse the land aboard the world-class Rovos Rail and engage in exclusive safari experiences at luxury lodges from Lions Sands River Lodge to the ethereal Elephant Camp set on private concessions. From the pursue of the Big Five to the thrilling power of Victoria Falls, from South Africa to Zimbabwe, savour the timeless grace unveiling Southern Africa on this unforgettable 13-day escapade.
Gather your closest loved ones and embark on a voyage of discovery across South Africa to the treasures of Zimbabwe. Your adventure starts in Cape Town. Pursue its thriving neighbourhoods, learn its history and visit iconic destinations such as Table Mountains, Robben Island, Boulder’s Beach, and much more. See the ‘Big 5’ and all ...
Gather your closest loved ones and embark on a voyage of discovery across South Africa to the treasures of Zimbabwe. Your adventure starts in Cape Town. Pursue its thriving neighbourhoods, learn its history and visit iconic destinations such as Table Mountains, Robben Island, Boulder’s Beach, and much more. See the ‘Big 5’ and all of Africa’s iconic creatures on thrilling game drives, exhilarating safari walks, and immerse yourself in the best safari experience in the privately owned game reserve of Sabi Sands. Unearth the immense beauty of this land as you ride in extreme luxury and comfort aboard one of the most luxurious trains on Earth, the world-class Rovos trail. Travel back in time, relive the elegance of a bygone era encompassing the timeless grace and high romance of African exploration. Sit back, see the magic and mystery of Africa unfold beyond the windows and you’ll see why this railed castle has earned its stripes. End your voyage on the less traveled and unspoiled splendours at Zimbabwe. Drink in everyday views of the majestic Victoria Falls and feel the connection to nature and the empowering experiences at the exclusive safari lodge The Elephant Camp.
ACCOMMODATION PLANS
Our program offers two accommodation plans.
Standard Plan: 3 nights’ stay at the elegant Georgian-Victorian guesthouse, Cape Cadogan, with breakfast included. Tucked in the residential street of Gardens making an ideal city escape with Cape Town at your doorstep. You’ll stay 2 nights at Lion Sands River Lodge famous for its record number of leopard spotting and perfectly set on the banks of the Sabi River. Inclusive of two daily game drives, bush walks and other complimentary safari activities on a fully inclusive basis. 3 night’s stay onboard the Rovos Rail in a Pullman Suite measuring 7 sqaure metres. Complete with lounge area and ensuite bathroom with shower on a fully inclusive basis.
Luxury Plan: 3 nights’ stay at the award winning five-star boutique hotel, Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, with breakfast included. A prime location set amongst breathtaking Camps Bay and the majestic Table Mountain and Twelve Apostles Mountain Range. You’ll stay 2 nights at Lion Sands Ivory Lodge situated on the banks of the Sabi River. The epitome of ultimate luxury, each suite has their own private rim flow plunge pools with magnificent views over the river. Inclusive of two daily game drives, bush walks and other complimentary safari activities on a fully inclusive basis. 3 night’s stay onboard the Rovos Rail on a fully inclusive basis in a spacious Deluxe Suite measuring 10 square metres. Complete with lounge area, ensuite bathroom with shower and a bar fridge filled with your choice of beverages. Please contact us for a quote.
This luxury package includes 12 nights accommodations on a twin share basis. All meals and luggage transfers are covered. All planned explorations will be in the company of a professional guide.
Explore the romance, style and indulgence of luxury travel in the most beautiful wilderness regions where rare memories are created from rail journey to bush paradise. Escape the crowds and absorb the magnificence of otherworldly regions that is Africa.
Dates or itinerary don't fit?We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
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On your arrival at Cape Town, you will be met by our representative at the airport. You will then be transferred to the hotel, Cape Cadogan, your home for the next 3 nights.
The Cape Cadogan is a beautiful boutique hotel located on the thriving Kloof street of Cape Town. The resort is very well known for its luxurious, tranquil, and comfortable atmosphere exuding an immaculate sense of history as it is housed in a 19th-century national monument, blending the best parts of the past and present together. The hotel offers a free area shuttle to attractions nearby; Table Mountain, Long Street, Clifton beach, V&A waterfront, and Cape Town International Airport.
After settling in your cozy, comfortable, and luxurious ‘Classic Room’ in the hotel. You can saunter around the garden and appreciate the decor of your lodge, order a soothing drink from the lounge or go for a relaxing swim in the shimmering waters of the outdoor pool.
Amuse your taste buds with refined bistro-style fare in a chic, contemporary setting with the best selection of some of South Africa’s best wines as the Grub & Vine, where you will enjoy a delicious dinner tonight.
Upgrade to Luxury Plan: Alternatively, spend 3 nights at the award winning five-star boutique hotel, the Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa. Poised above the Atlantic Ocean of Camps Bay, it is flanked by the majestic Table Mountain a World Heritage Site, and the Twelve Apostles Mountain range. Where every room takes advantage of tis stunning scenery, enjoy ultimate luxury from a plush bar, white linen restaurant, holistic spa, private cinema, swimming pools, ornate rock pools to gardens that complete the scene.
Today, start your adventure with a ferry to the historic Robben Island, a World Heritage site and museum. The historical landmark is known for housing political prisoners such as the former president African Nelson Mandela. Experience first-hand the treacherous prison conduct in a private tour of the island led by an ex-prisoner.
Delve deeper into Cape Town’s treasures exploring the kaleidoscopic houses of the Bo Kaap and learn about the heritage of the vibrant Cape Malay people before a journey to Iziko to Slave Lodge. Step inside, learn the history of the unwilling immigrants and how they contributed to the richness and diversity of South African history.
Be privileged as you witness the spectacular Table Mountain, part of the seven wonders of the world. Take a scenic cable car up to its summit to marvel at the stunning panoramic view of Cape Town and its beautiful surroundings. You’ll also have a chance to learn about fynbos (the local plant life) and maybe spot a few adorable ‘Dassies’.
Spend the rest of the afternoon unwinding at your hotel. Take a relaxing swim in the pool before enjoying dinner.
Today, venture further afield to Cape Town’s breathtaking coastline, the Cape Peninsula. A beautiful rocky peninsula that projects into the Atlantic Ocean and a great spot to take delightful pictures. Enjoy the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the Western Mountains as you take a smooth drive along the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive to visit the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve & Cape Point. Journey to Boulder’s Beach, a pristine location made up of inlets between granite boulders. Get up close and photograph the unique African Penguin jostling around their territory.
Set out to the seaside towns of Simon’s towns and Kalk Bay and enjoy a delicious lunch. Cap off a magical day at the beautiful Kirstenbosch Gardens, acclaimed as one of the greatest botanical gardens in the world with over 7000 species of plants found from Southern Africa.
After your fill of exploring, head back to the hotel to rest and relax with its many luxury amenities. Or if you're fueled for more adventure, make use of the hotel's shuttle and discover more of Cape Town at your own pace.
This morning, transfer to Cape Town International Airport and fly to the luxury Lion Sands River Lodge in the acclaimed private game reserve of Sabi Sands. *The domestic flight is not included in the price. Subject to airline fare change and schedule. We will quote you the flight fare at time of booking.
Famous for its record number of elusive leopard sightings, enjoy 7000 hectares of Africa’s most pristine ‘Big 5’ territory and the only reserve in South Africa to offer a safari in both the Sabie and Sand River ecosystem. Your luxury River Lodge has perfectly captured the spirit of the Sabie River. Your spacious luxury rooms are cosy with private en-suite, wooden walkways that lead off to a spa, gym, and pool and boasts a private wooden deck for you to absorb the immaculate views of nature and beyond. You won't have to leave the privacy of your room in search for wildlife.
Spend your days venturing out in the morning or evening on game drives. Exposed to the wild in open land rovers with your expert tracker and ranger, pursue the search of the ‘Big 5’ along with a supporting cast of over 130 mammal species and 450 varieties of birds. For a different perspective, embark on a bush walk and spot the little details and creatures that make up the wilderness that you may have missed while on game drives.
After a day of exploration, dial it back. Order a rejuvenating session at the wilderness spa or unwind at the pool with a soothing drink in hand and stunning views of nature. For something truly special, immerse in a Treehouse sleep out safari exclusively offered at the lodge (at additional cost) for an unparalleled experience and an ultimate fresh perspective on the South African bush.
Dining affairs here are as delicious as your scenery. Indulge in delectable cuisine paired with an award-winning wine list amidst the serenity of the African wilderness from bush breakfasts to boma dinners under the African starlit sky.
Upgrade Luxury Plan: Alternatively, upgrade and spend 3 nights at the sister lodge, Lion Sands Ivory Lodge. Pursue a safari escapade of utter exclusivity with just eight waterside villas set apart by some twenty metres. Situated on the banks of the Sabie River, be one of the lucky ones to gaze at wildlife from the comfort of your bed, deck, private plunge pool or even the guest spa.
Today, we say our hearty goodbyes to the wild. Having had our fill, fly to Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport and then private road transfer to Pretoria, one of South Africa’s three capital cities.
Upon arrival, we transfer to the picturesque 5-star Castello Di Monte, located in Waterkloof Ridge. The grand Tuscan style portrays pure luxury and elegance and offers spectacular views of the hills in and around the city. The landscaped gardens with lavender bushes and mature olives give a nice touch of Italian culture to the African landscape.
Unwind in its tranquility with a therapeutic massage to help ease the jet lag or take a calming swim in the crystal-clear water of the pool.
Today, see Africa with a sense of romance. Step aboard a three-day luxury trip on one of the most luxurious trains in the world, Rovos Rail.
Enjoy a transfer to the Rovos Rail Station. The train combines the golden age of rail travel with modern conveniences, creating an elaborate elegance of a bygone era. Your Pullman Suites are equipped with a comfortable sofa seat during the day with a conversion to double or twin beds for the evening, and a private en-suite bathroom with a shower. The spacious seven square metre suites offer passengers the opportunity to travel in privacy, comfort, and luxury with fittings and facilities of the highest standard. There’s no finer way to see the country. When you board, you’ll see exactly how this railed castle has earned its stripes.
Escape from the rowdiness of modern, everyday life and travel back in time to the elegance of a bygone era; no radio or television set onboard. Immerse yourself in the immense beauty of the land and breathe its fresh air in the observation car with its open-air balcony and big picture windows to take in all the magnificence.
Dine in style and luxury in the chic pre 1940 dining cars. Indulge in exquisite cuisine with fine china, glassware, crisp linen while dressed in dazzling formal attire, adding to the grandeur of the theme of the railed castle. (Men; jacket & tie, ladies; cocktail/evening dresses as minimum requirement).
As you ride aboard the luxury vehicle, enjoy mingling with new friends or whiling away your time with a nice, soothing drink from the exotic bar in hand. Sit back on the sofas and in the booths and take in awe-inspiring views of nature through the big picture windows at the observation lounge.
Your views throughout are just as indulgent as your food and wine menu. Marvel as you wind your way through Warmbaths, known for its mineral waters, christened by the Voortrekkers as the source of the Nile River. Admire the escarpments as you cross the Tropic of Capricorn to the border of Zimbabwe and its diverse countryside. Arrive at Hwange Park for an off-train adventure exploring the beautiful Kennedy Sliding and a thrilling game drive before ending the journey at the majestic Victoria Falls.
Luxury Plan: Alternatively, upgrade to a spacious Deluxe Suite measuring 10 square metres. Enjoy fully inclusive basis complete with lounge area, ensuite bathroom with shower and a bar fridge filled with your choice of beverages.
Today, we bid farewell to the luxury Rovos Rail and transfer to The Elephant Camp. Within its own private reserve, it boasts a luxury, intimate lodge with spectacular views of the mists rising over the majestic Victoria Falls and the steep gorges of the Zambezi River. Exclusive, your luxury tented suites have a private deck overlooking a waterhole and plunge pools offering unique views of the wild and beyond.
Within easy reach of Victoria Falls, yet secluded on its own game reserve, spend your days immersing in community and conservation-focused activities offered complimentary at camp. Marvel at a masterpiece of Mother Nature on a guided tour of Victoria Falls, engage in an elephant experience with unforgettable encounters or for a more thrilling adventure take a Victoria Falls Canopy Tour. Savour peaceful moments on a sunset cruise on the Zambezi Royal, whisk away to the tops of Batoka Gorge with cocktails and canapes, visit a village for cultural immersion or drink in the wild on birding and nature walks; the adventures are endless!
After a day of adventure, retreat back to camp and unwind in the sun kissed pool where comfortable loungers gaze onto sweeping vistas of Bakota Gorge. Retreat in the sunken firepit and swap your captivating safari stories around a blazing fire. Each day relish in delicious meals and sundowners in private seating areas, or on the main dining deck, and even create your own delicious wood fire pizza in the pizza oven at lunch.
Today, you have the opportunity to marvel at the arrival views of this stunning land. You will be collected from the camp 30 minutes before your flight departure time and briefed on safety on arrival at the Helipad, near the Elephant Hills Inter-Continental Hotel. Enjoy 13 blissful minutes on the Flight of Angels as the helicopter flies circuits over the Falls in different directions giving you the best viewing and photographic opportunities. The trip ends as you fly upriver and back over the Zambezi National Park.
You’ll spend the rest of day enjoying the majesties of your camp. Delve deeper into the Batoka Gorge, Victoria Falls or engage in the many adventures offered at camp.
Take in the last views of this beautiful destination over a relaxed breakfast before you are transferred to Victoria Falls Airport. Leaving inspired with a profound sense of adventure, bid adieu to the magnificent destination and continue your onward journey.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
Departure daily on request. Please contact us for group bookings or private departures. Peak/festival season surcharge applies.
- The departure point is Cape Town
- The finish point is Victorial Falls, Zimbabwe
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Cape Town
Cape Town
Cape Town’s Dry and Wet seasons are opposite to those in Kruger. Therefore, the best time for visiting Cape Town and surrounds is during the dry summer months of November to March. The daily temperatures average between 17°C (63°F) and 28°c (82°F), although it can reach as high as 40°C (104°F). Cape Town has a Mediterranean climate, which means that it gets its rainfall in the winter months Late April to early June has crisp and clear days, perfect for a hiking trip. The best time for a whale watching is from July to September when migratory whales arrive along the coastline.
Sabi Sands
Sabi Sands has two distinct seasons. The winter season runs from May to October. It’s the coolest and driest period – especially May through July – and the most comfortable time to go on safari. The risk of malaria, slight as it is, is at its lowest in winter. Early morning temperatures dip below freezing in mid-winter but days are mild and sunny. The summer season begins with the onset of heavier rain in November. Temperatures are hotter too, rising to a season average of 30°C/86°F. The May – October dry season is generally regarded as the best time for game viewing: the vegetation is thin and trampled which makes animals easier to see – especially since wildlife is often concentrated around waterholes and rivers. Waterhole game viewing is very rewarding in late winter.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe enjoys a lovely, temperate climate. Dry season is from April to October, there is virtually no rainfall, and humidity is low. The best time for game viewing is between July and October, where wildlife will congregate around waterholes and rivers when other water sources dry up. Wet season is November to March. Temperatures remain warm throughout the year, ranging from 21°C to 35°C. Meanwhile, April to June provides great value, and fantastic views of Victoria Falls in full flow can be enjoyed.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A single supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 90 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 90 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 90 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 90 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.