Big Five, Fine Wine and Sixteen Unforgettable Days in Southern Africa

Your journey begins with a warm VIP welcome at OR Tambo International Airport. Breeze through customs and relax at the Intercontinental OR Tambo, where refined comfort and exceptional service await. Take the edge off your travels with a rejuvenating spa treatment or a glass of South African wine at Quills Restaurant.

A short flight takes you to Victoria Falls, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Check into the riverside Palm River Hotel, where elegance meets tranquility. In the evening, board a luxurious Zambezi River cruise. Watch the sunset paint the sky in fiery hues as elephants and hippos grace the riverbanks.

Begin your day with a guided exploration of Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya, “The Smoke That Thunders.” Witness the sheer power of the cascading waters up close. Adventurous souls can opt for a helicopter flight over the falls or a heart-pounding gorge swing. Spend the afternoon browsing local markets or enjoying a serene poolside retreat.

Fly to Greater Kruger, where your safari dreams come alive at Lion Sands River Lodge, an elegant retreat along the Sabie River. Embark on your first game drive, guided by experts who reveal the secrets of the bush. Spot lions, leopards and elephants in their natural habitat. The evening concludes with a gourmet dinner under the stars, paired with fine South African wines.

Mornings in the bush are magical. Rise early for a game drive as the savannah awakens. Keep your camera ready for grazing zebras, prowling predators and the ever-graceful giraffes. Return to the lodge for a sumptuous breakfast and a serene midday respite by the infinity pool.

In the evening, venture out again for a sundowner safari, where cocktails in the wild set the stage for unforgettable moments. Return for a traditional boma dinner, complete with storytelling around a crackling fire.

Experience the African wilderness like never before with a stay at the Kingston Treehouse, a secluded open-air retreat that redefines luxury camping. From your elevated perch, the symphony of the bush is your lullaby, and the glittering Milky Way your nightlight.

Bid farewell to the bush and journey to Cape Town, where the urban meets the untamed. The Queen Victoria Hotel, with its regal charm and prime location at the V&A Waterfront, is your base for the next four nights.

Spend the evening exploring the bustling waterfront, from high-end boutiques to artisanal markets. Dine at the acclaimed Test Kitchen Fledgelings, where each plate is a work of art.

Rise early for a cable car ride up Table Mountain, where panoramic views stretch from Robben Island to the Cape Peninsula. Wander through the colorful Bo-Kaap district, steeped in Cape Malay culture, before indulging in a seafood lunch at Harbour House, perched above the Atlantic.

Afternoons are perfect for a stroll through Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, a tranquil oasis showcasing South Africa’s botanical treasures.

Embark on a scenic drive along Chapman’s Peak, a coastal road carved into cliffs, en route to Cape Point. Stop at Boulders Beach to meet the charming African penguins before ascending to the historic lighthouse at Cape Point.

The journey continues through Simon’s Town, where quaint streets invite exploration and seafood delights abound.

Adventurers will relish a sunrise hike up Lion’s Head, where 360-degree views reward every step. For a more relaxed pace, explore the trendy Woodstock district, home to contemporary galleries, design shops and craft breweries.

The Cape Winelands. Cap off your journey with a private tour of the Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyards and towering mountains create a dreamlike setting. Visit celebrated estates in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek for tastings paired with artisanal cheeses and charcuterie. After sampling the area’s finest offerings, retreat to the tranquil Babylonstoren Farm Hotel, where lush gardens and a gourmet dinner reservation at Babel await.

Indulging in Winelands Serenity. Savor the luxury of a day at leisure in the Cape Winelands. Explore Babylonstoren’s activities, from garden tours and wine tastings to cycling or bread baking. Take in the peaceful beauty of one of South Africa’s most picturesque regions.

The untamed Okavango Delta. Transition to the wild as you fly to Botswana’s iconic Okavango Delta. Over three days, discover the delta’s diverse ecosystems through game drives, boat excursions and walking safaris. Witness elephants, hippos and predators in their natural habitat, and unwind at Wilderness Jao Camp, where the magic of the delta comes alive.

A stopover in Johannesburg. Return to Johannesburg for a brief stay. Your journey concludes, leaving you with cherished memories of South Africa’s vibrant cities, captivating landscapes and unforgettable wildlife encounters.