South Africa Itinerary: Stunning Landscapes, Top Wineries and Exciting Safaris

Our South African adventure began at the iconic Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel, a stunning oasis in the heart of Cape Town. The moment we arrived, we were captivated by the hotel's lush gardens and charming historic architecture.

First on our agenda was the much-anticipated high tea at the Belmond — a bucket-list experience that did not disappoint. We savored an array of exquisite treats, from delicate pastries to savory bites, all perfectly paired with a selection of fine teas. It was an afternoon of pure indulgence in a truly elegant setting.

Our room at the Belmond was an absolute delight. Spacious and beautifully decorated, it offered a perfect blend of classic charm and modern luxury. The plush bedding, stylish furnishings, and breathtaking views of the gardens made it a haven of comfort and relaxation. Every detail, from the marble bathroom to the cozy sitting area, was thoughtfully designed to ensure a truly luxurious stay. Not to mention the little surprises they leave in your room each day — think pink gin!

In the afternoon, I treated myself to a rejuvenating spa session, melting away any travel fatigue and setting the perfect tone for our trip. Afterward, we took a leisurely stroll around the property, soaking in the serene beauty of our surroundings.

As evening fell, we dined at the hotel's acclaimed restaurant. The menu featured a delightful array of South African flavors, and each dish was more delicious than the last. The intimate ambiance and exceptional cuisine provided the perfect end to our first day in Cape Town.

If you're seeking a perfect blend of relaxation, luxury and adventure, this is just the beginning of an unforgettable journey through South Africa.

Our second day began with an exciting coastal drive from Cape Town to the enchanting Grootbos Private Nature Reserve. Here’s what made this journey unforgettable:

Morning Stops

• The Pitstop: We started our drive with a delightful break at The Pitstop, an adorable roadside café. It’s the perfect spot to grab a coffee and stretch your legs while enjoying the quaint, cozy atmosphere.

• Betty’s Bay Penguins: Our next stop was Betty’s Bay, home to a charming colony of African penguins. Watching these cute, waddling creatures up close was an absolute treat.

• Harold Porter National Botanical Garden: Continuing our journey, we visited the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden. This lush, expansive garden is a must-see, offering stunning flora and the unexpected delight of encountering a family of baboons. We even hiked to a beautiful waterfall, making for a perfect nature escape.

Lunch Stop

• Burgundy Restaurant in Hermanus: By lunchtime, we reached Hermanus and dined at the Burgundy Restaurant. The food was incredible — highly recommend the Kingklip and chips! The restaurant also offers fantastic views of the ocean, making it a delightful dining experience.

Arrival at Grootbos

Finally, we arrived at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, which was absolutely stunning!

The Property

• Grootbos offers a luxurious escape amidst pristine nature. We stayed in a magnificent four-bedroom villa that was nothing short of spectacular. The villa boasted spacious rooms with modern, elegant décor and expansive windows offering breathtaking views of the surrounding fynbos and distant ocean.

• Each villa comes with its own private chef, ensuring that every meal is a culinary delight tailored to your preferences. The villa also features a private pool, a game room for endless entertainment and an amazing kitchen that makes you feel right at home.

• Whether you're relaxing by the pool, enjoying a gourmet meal or playing a game of billiards, the villa provides an unmatched level of comfort and luxury.

Insider Tips

• Pack comfortable walking shoes for the botanical garden and penguin viewing.

• Book high tea at the Belmond in advance to secure a spot.

• At Grootbos, take advantage of the guided nature tours to fully immerse yourself in the unique biodiversity of the reserve.

This day was packed with memorable experiences, from adorable penguins to serene botanical gardens and a luxurious end at Grootbos. If you’re looking for a blend of adventure and relaxation, this itinerary is perfect!

Morning Adventure

• Sunrise Hike: Our day began with an incredible sunrise hike above the resort, led by our knowledgeable guide, Jono. The early start was well worth it, as we were treated to stunning views as the sun rose over the landscape with the ocean in the background. Jono introduced us to the diverse flora of the region, explaining the unique characteristics and uses of various plants.

• The hike concluded with a magical forest walk, where the tranquility and beauty of the natural surroundings left us in awe. The combination of mountain and forest scenery made this hike an unforgettable experience.

• After our hike, we returned to our villa to find our private chef busy preparing a scrumptious breakfast. The spread included fresh fruits, pastries, and made-to-order dishes, all crafted with the finest ingredients. Dining on the terrace with panoramic views added to the perfect start to our day. If you book a villa, they come with your own private chef!

Insider Tips

• Book the sunrise hike in advance to ensure you get a spot, as it offers the best views and a peaceful start to the day.

• Bring a good pair of hiking boots and a jacket for the early morning chill.

• Take advantage of the guided tours at Grootbos to learn about the unique biodiversity of the area from experts like Jono.

Grootbos is truly a dream destination, offering the perfect blend of adventure and luxury. The combination of a magical sunrise hike and a gourmet breakfast prepared by our private chef made for an unforgettable start to our day.

Next Stop: Cellars-Hohenort

• The Property: We then traveled to the exquisite Cellars-Hohenort Hotel, nestled in the heart of Cape Town’s Constantia Valley. The property is a blend of elegance and charm, with beautifully landscaped gardens and luxurious rooms offering breathtaking views.

Afternoon Activities

• Hike at Table Mountain National Park: We started with a light hike at Table Mountain National Park, enjoying the stunning vistas and natural beauty.

• Wine Tasting at Beau Constantia: Next, we visited Beau Constantia, a beautiful winery where we indulged in a delightful wine tasting experience. The scenic views and exquisite wines made for a perfect afternoon.

Evening

• Dinner at Cellars-Hohenort: We concluded our day with an amazing dinner at the hotel’s renowned restaurant. The food was exquisite, featuring a delightful blend of flavors and beautifully presented dishes.

Day 3 was a perfect mix of adventure and relaxation, with stunning hikes, exquisite wines and luxurious accommodations.

Morning

• Flight to Greater Kruger National Park: Today, we headed to the airport to catch our flight to the Greater Kruger National Park area for an unforgettable safari experience. The flight took approximately an hour and a half. A word of advice: arrive at the airport early, as the check-in lines can be quite long.

Arrival at Thornybush Game Lodge

• The property:

  • Thornybush Game Lodge is a stunning retreat set within the Thornybush Private Nature Reserve. The lodge seamlessly blends luxury with the natural beauty of the bush. Our room was spacious and elegantly designed, featuring a comfortable king-size bed, a private deck with breathtaking views of the surrounding wilderness and a luxurious en-suite bathroom complete with a freestanding bathtub and indoor/outdoor showers. The lodge's main area includes a cozy lounge, a bar, and a dining area overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife. The infinity pool provides a perfect spot to relax and soak in the African sun.

• Activities:

  • Twice daily game drives: The highlight of our stay at Thornybush was undoubtedly the twice-daily game drives. Our knowledgeable and passionate guides made each safari adventure exciting and educational. We were incredibly fortunate to spot all of the Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant and buffalo) during our drives, along with numerous other species of wildlife.

  • Morning game drive: We started our day with an early morning game drive, a fantastic way to witness the bush come alive with activity. The cool morning air and golden light made for perfect photo opportunities.

  • Evening game drive: The evening game drive was equally spectacular. We paused for sundowners in the bush, enjoying refreshing drinks and snacks while watching the sun set over the horizon.

  • Walking safaris: Being in a private reserve like Thornybush, we had the unique opportunity to go on guided walking safaris. These walks allowed us to experience the bush on foot, learning about the smaller details of the ecosystem that you might miss from a vehicle.

  • Night safaris: Thornybush also offers thrilling night safaris, where we explored the bush after dark. With the help of a spotlight, we saw nocturnal animals and experienced the bush in a completely different light.

• Meals:

  • Breakfast: Breakfast at Thornybush was a delightful affair, served after the morning game drive. We enjoyed a delicious spread of fresh fruits, pastries, eggs made to order and a variety of other options, all while soaking in the stunning views from the dining area.

  • Sundowners: Sundowners in the bush were a unique and memorable experience. Sipping on our favorite drinks and snacking on delicious treats as the sky turned shades of orange and pink was simply magical.

Insider Tips

• Pack a good pair of binoculars and a camera with a zoom lens to capture the wildlife up close.

• Dress in layers for the game drives, as mornings and evenings can be chilly while afternoons are warm.

• Listen to your guides' advice — their knowledge and experience greatly enhance the safari experience.

Our stay at Thornybush Game Lodge was nothing short of incredible. The luxurious accommodations, fantastic guides, and unforgettable wildlife encounters made for a truly exceptional safari experience. The added thrill of walking and night safaris provided a deeper connection to the African wilderness.

After an unforgettable stay at Thornybush, we transferred to the Sabi Sabi Private Game Reserve for a two-night stay at the spectacular Earth Lodge. The journey itself was an adventure, transitioning from one incredible wilderness experience to another.

The Property

• Earth Lodge is nothing short of a wow factor. This extraordinary lodge blends seamlessly with the natural landscape, designed to look as though it has grown from the earth itself. The architecture is modern and eco-friendly, offering an unparalleled level of luxury and comfort.

• Our suite was an oasis of tranquility, featuring a private plunge pool, an open-plan design with natural textures and floor-to-ceiling windows that offered uninterrupted views of the bush. The attention to detail in the decor, from the handcrafted furnishings to the curated art pieces, was simply stunning.

• The lodge also boasts a beautiful central lounge, an elegant dining area, a well-stocked bar and a refreshing infinity pool overlooking a waterhole frequented by wildlife.

Amenities & Experiences

• Spa: The spa at Earth Lodge was a highlight of our stay. Nanny, the therapist, provided the best treatment I’ve ever had. The serene environment, combined with Nanny’s skilled hands, made for an incredibly relaxing and rejuvenating experience.

• Dining: Dining at Earth Lodge was an intimate and exquisite affair. Each meal was thoughtfully prepared, featuring gourmet dishes that celebrated local flavors and ingredients. The candlelit dinners under the stars were particularly memorable, offering a romantic and unique dining experience.

• Game drives: The twice-daily game drives continued to impress. Our guides were once again phenomenal, sharing their vast knowledge and passion for the wildlife. We were fortunate enough to see the Big Five again, along with numerous other species, making each drive an exciting adventure.