2019 Spectacular South Africa – 15 Days / 14 Nights

DATE ROUTING
DAY 1 – WEDNESDAY CAPE TOWN
DAY 2 – THURSDAY CAPE TOWN
DAY 3 – FRIDAY CAPE TOWN
DAY 4 – SATURDAY CAPE TOWN – HERMANUS
DAY 5 – SUNDAY HERMANUS – OUDTSHOORN
DAY 6 – MONDAY OUDTSHOORN – KNYSNA
DAY 7 – TUESDAY KNYSNA
DAY 8 – WEDNESDAY KNYSNA – TSITSIKAMMA
DAY 9 – THURSDAY TSITSIKAMMA – PORT ELIZABETH – DURBAN – UMHLANGA
DAY 10 – FRIDAY UMHLANGA – ZULULAND
DAY 11 – SATURDAY ZULULAND – SWAZILAND
DAY 12 – SUNDAY SWAZILAND – MPUMALANGA
DAY 13 – MONDAY MPUMALANGA
DAY 14 – TUESDAY MPUMALANGA
DAY 15 – WEDNESDAY MPUMALANGA – HOEDSPRUIT
END OF TOUR

 

Meal Key

BB             Bed and Breakfast

DBB          Dinner, Bed and Breakfast

DBB+        Dinner, Bed and Breakfast plus one additional activity

DBB++     Dinner, Bed and Breakfast plus two additional activities

FB             Full Board (includes 3 meals per day)

FB+           Full Board (includes 3 meals per day) plus one additional service

FB++        Full Board (includes 3 meals per day) plus two additional services

FI              Fully Inclusive (includes all meals and local drinks), plus all activities

 

Minimum 2 guests / Maximum 8 guests

Selected departure dates

DURATION

15 Days/14 Nights

ROUTING

CAPE TOWN – JOHANNESBURG

DEPARTURE DATES

Jan 19 Feb 19 Mar19 Apr 19 May19 Jun 19 Jul 19 Aug 19 Sep 19 Oct 19 Nov 19 Dec 19
16 13 13 17 15 12 10 7 11 9 6 11

 

INCLUDES

14 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 4 dinners, accommodation, porterage, transportation, sightseeing as specified

EXCLUDES

FLIGHT: PORT ELIZABETH – DURBAN (UMHLANGA) (PLZ/DUR) and departure tax on Day 9

Please book flights to depart Port Elizabeth after 14h30 on Day 9

FLIGHT: HOEDSPRUIT – JOHANNESBURG (HDS/JNB) and departure tax on Day 15

Please book flights to depart Hoedspruit from 12h00 on Day 15

Accommodation used:

Floreal House or similar x 3 nights

Misty Waves Boutique Hotel or similar x 1night

La Plume Boutique Hotel or similar x 1 night

Knysna Hollow or similar x 2 nights

Tsitsikamma Village Inn or similar x 1 night

The Oyster Box Hotel or similar x 1 night

Ubizane Wildlife Reserve or similar x 1 night

The Royal Villas or similar x 1 night

Country Boutique Hotel or similar x 1 night

Kapama River Lodge or similar x 2 nights

LANGUAGE

All departures are in English.

DAY 1 – WEDNESDAY – CAPE TOWN

On arrival in Cape Town you are met by your representative and assisted to your transfer. The remainder of the day is at leisure (unescorted).

DAY 2 – THURSDAY – CAPE TOWN

After breakfast you meet your tour guide and fellow travellers and set out to the picturesque Winelands, where century old vineyards are surrounded by awe inspiring mountain scenery. We have left today’s itinerary open. With extraordinary wine estates from Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek and fascinating historical landmarks to explore, your highly knowledgeable tour guide will discuss the many possibilities and tailor-make a memorable Winelands experience for the whole group. [Breakfast]

Distance travelled today: 200 kms

DAY 3 – FRIDAY – CAPE TOWN

This morning we ascend one of the New Seven Wonders of Nature – majestic Table Mountain (weather permitting), for unrivalled views of Cape Town. Thereafter we drive along Millionaires Paradise to Camps Bay, heading towards the charming working harbour at Hout Bay. We wind along legendary Chapman’s Peak Drive (if open) hugging the cliffs and relishing the breath-taking ocean views. After lunch (for own account) we visit the wild and beautiful Cape of Good Hope, an integral part of the world renowned Cape Floral Kingdom. [Breakfast]

Distance travelled today: 200 kms

DAY 4 – SATURDAY – CAPE TOWN – HERMANUS

We depart Cape Town after breakfast. A stunning coastal drive brings us to the Harold Porter National Botanical Garden with its delicate coastal Fynbos. We also seek out the small breeding colony of African Penguins at Stoney Point. In the “Hemel en Aarde” region, one of South Africa’s newest wine routes, we indulge in a wine tasting at a boutique winery before arriving in Hermanus. [Breakfast]

Distance travelled today: 200 kms

DAY 5 – SUNDAY – HERMANUS – OUDTSHOORN

This morning we explore the unique cliff paths of Hermanus and gasp at the outstanding views of Walker Bay. During the months of July – November, the possibility of whale sightings could add further enhancement to our explorations. We depart late morning stopping for a late lunch (for own account) in the pretty village of Barrydale on the scenic “Route 62”, then onward to Oudtshoorn. [Breakfast]

Distance travelled today: 380 kms

DAY 6 – MONDAY – OUDTSHOORN – KNYSNA

Today we will have the opportunity to marvel at the impressive Cango Caves, filled with wonderful stalactite and stalagmite formations. Thereafter enjoy a guided tour at an ostrich farm, which will give us insight into why Oudtshoorn is known as the “feather capital of the world”. We travel via the panoramic Outeniqua Pass to Knysna, known as the oyster box of South Africa. [Breakfast]

Distance travelled today: 220 kms

DAY 7 – TUESDAY – KNYSNA

This morning we cruise the vast Knysna Lagoon and visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve, where you will learn more about the fascinating history, fauna and flora of the area. Return for lunch. The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure (unescorted) to further explore the charming village of Knysna. [Breakfast & Lunch]

Distance travelled today: 20 kms

DAY 8 – WEDNESDAY – KNYSNA – TSITSIKAMMA

We depart Knysna after breakfast and travel to Plettenberg Bay for an ocean safari (weather permitting). During the summer months we may encounter bottlenose and common dolphins as well as seals in their natural environment. During the winter months we may see southern right and humpback whales. For those brave souls amongst us, this afternoon you will have the opportunity to attempt the world’s highest bungee jump at Bloukrans Bridge (for own account and weather permitting). We arrive late afternoon at the picturesque village of Storms River. [Breakfast]

Distance travelled today: 130 kms

DAY 9 – THURSDAY – TSITSIKAMMA – PORT ELIZABETH – DURBAN – UMHLANGA

This morning we immerse ourselves in the splendour and tranquillity of the Tsitsikamma National Park and head to the Storms River Mouth for unrivalled views of the Indian Ocean (weather permitting). We continue our journey to Port Elizabeth airport for our onward flight to Durban. On arrival in Durban we will be met and transferred to our accommodation for the evening, on the tropical North Coast of KwaZulu-Natal. [Breakfast]

Distance travelled today: 280 kms

DAY 10 – FRIDAY – DURBAN – ZULULAND

After breakfast head north to the tiny village of St Lucia, a World Heritage Site and one of South Africa’s wilderness treasures. A cruise on the St Lucia Estuary (depending on favourable weather conditions) affords us wonderful photographic opportunities as we may encounter large pods of hippos, the occasional Nile crocodile and prolific birdlife. Continue to a private game reserve where you can experience the unique richness that this peaceful region has to offer. Enjoy an afternoon game drive within the heart of Big Five territory. After winding down with sundowners, we marvel at the spectacular sunsets and continue our search for elusive nocturnal creatures. [Breakfast, Dinner & 1 Game Activity]

Distance travelled today: 350 kms

DAY 11 – SATURDAY – ZULULAND – SWAZILAND

This morning will be an early start with tea, coffee and rusks after which we set out on an early morning safari in search of the Big Five, enjoying the delightful scenery and excellent safari opportunity. After breakfast we set our sights north and cross the border into the tiny Kingdom of Swaziland, a former British Protection Territory, now ruled by King MsWati III. Arrive in the afternoon at our luxury lodge set in a beautiful, secure estate with stunning views of the Royal Mdzimba Mountains.        [Breakfast & 1 Game Activity]

Distance travelled today: 320 kms

DAY 12 – SUNDAY – SWAZILAND – MPUMALANGA

After breakfast we visit a chief’s village to gain an insight into the fascinating traditional Swazi culture and the residents invite us to participate in the cultural practices. Afterwards, we cross the border back into South Africa for an afternoon arrival in the lush Sabie River Valley. [Breakfast & Dinner]

Distance travelled today: 330 kms

DAY 13 – MONDAY – MPUMALANGA

Today we traverse the glorious Panorama route taking in the spectacular God’s Window, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and Three Rondavels at Blyde River Canyon. Our safari adventure continues at Kapama Private Game Reserve described as an African Eden. The reserve is a wilderness paradise. After checking in, we depart on an open vehicle safari accompanied by a ranger and tracker. We go in search of a diverse range of animal and bird species and hope to encounter the Big Five, lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. [Breakfast, Dinner & 1 Game Activity]

Distance travelled today: 280 kms

DAY 14 – TUESDAY – MPUMALANGA

The day starts with an early morning safari. While seeing big game is always exhilarating, there are many other smaller species that are also captivating, and birding enthusiasts will be delighted at the approximately 350 species of birds recorded on the reserve. Return to the lodge for a few hours of relaxation. In the afternoon we will gather for high tea, before heading out for the afternoon safari. As darkness falls, the nocturnal animals of the bush come out. A variety of completely different species can be seen on the night drive back to the lodge. [Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner & 2 Game Activities]

Distance travelled today: 90 kms

DAY 15 – WEDNESDAY – MPUMALANGA – HOEDSPRUIT

Enjoy a final early morning open vehicle safari, before returning to the lodge for brunch. Upon checking out, you will be transferred to nearby Hoedspruit’s Eastgate Airport for your onward flight to Johannesburg. [Breakfast]

STANDARD CONDITIONS OF BUSINESS

1. UNDERTAKING

Cullinan Guided Journeys undertakes to provide all services offered subject to the terms and conditions set out herein, which terms and conditions are accepted by the passenger.

2. DEFINITION

Cullinan Guided Journeys means: Cullinan Holdings LTD T/A Cullinan Guided Journeys

Passenger means: Individuals, groups, companies or other legal persons using the services offered by Cullinan Guided Journeys and includes the agents of passengers.

Services meansThe provision of accommodations and/or transportation and/or meals as offered by Cullinan Guided Journeys and accepted by the Passenger.

3. TERMS OF PAYMENT

3.1 On confirmation of services – a deposit of 25 % of the quoted tour price is required (N.B: For tours that include Blue Train and/or Private Game Reserves and Lodges, a different schedule of deposits, payments and cancellation fees apply. This will be provided when applicable.)

45 days before commencement of services – full payment plus rooming list is required.

Notes

  1. i) Bookings made within 45 days of commencement of services must be accompanied by full payment of the tour plus rooming list.
  2. ii) Where circumstances do not permit the timeous receipt of funds, explicit confirmation of transfer of funds will enable us to reserve services.

3.2 If payments are made in negotiable foreign currency, the payer will be responsible for any short payment resulting from exchange rate fluctuations. The exchange rate applied by the official bankers of Cullinan Guided Journeys on receipt of moneys will be accepted as the applicable rate.

3.3 If the required deposit or final payment is not received by due date, Cullinan Guided Journeys reserves the right to withdraw services.

4 . CANCELLATIONS

4.1 General Conditions

4.1.1 Cancellations made more than 45 days prior to arrival will not normally result in cancellation fees being charged. However;

4.1.2  Cullinan Guided Journeys reserves the right to recover any costs incurred or charges received from suppliers up to the date of cancellation.

4.1.3 In the event of services being cancelled 45 days or less, prior to arrival, the following cancellation fees will apply.

  • 45 days to 36 days before commencement of services: 25% total quoted tour price due.

(Subject to 2. above)

  • 35 days to 16 days before commencement of services: 50% of total quoted tour price due.

(Subject to 2. above)

  • 15 days or less before commencement of services : 100% of the total quoted tour price due

We recommend that you ensure that your passengers take adequate personal cancellation insurance cover before departure from home.

4.2 Special Conditions

For tours that include services of certain suppliers with more stringent policies, e.g., National Parks Board, Blue Train, Private Lodges and others, different cancellation fees will be enforceable.  These will be provided when applicable.

5. AIRLINES

Cancellations and refunds

In the event of cancellation or failure, for any reason whatsoever, to use confirmed space, as ticketed, 25% (twenty five percent) of the applicable airfare will be forfeited.  A change of reservation constitutes a cancellation. Extension of ticket validity is no permitted, save when a passenger is hospitalised due to illness or in the event of death of a member of the passenger’s immediate family.

Responsibilities and booking conditions

All airfare reservations are arranged subject to the conditions imposed by the respective airline.

6. LUGGAGE

One suitcase and one overnight bag per person is allowed. Cullinan Guided Journeys accepts no responsibility for loss or damage to luggage or personal property from whatsoever cause arising. Passengers are advised to take up adequate insurance cover.

7. DELAYS

Cullinan Guided Journeys shall not be responsible for the consequences of any delays whether arising from accidents, breakdowns, or any other cause.

8. RESPONSIBILITY

Cullinan Guided Journeys carries comprehensive passenger liability insurance details of which will be made available on request.  Cullinan Guided Journeys is not responsible for any damages sustained by any passenger as a result of any act or omission whatsoever of any hotel, airline or other person, notwithstanding the fact the Cullinan Guided Journeys acted as agent of such hotel, airline or other person.

9. LAW

The law of the Republic of South Africa shall govern the relationship between Cullinan Guided Journeys and the passenger and the Courts of the Republic of South Africa shall have sole jurisdiction in respect of any claims and/or disputes which may arise between Cullinan Guided Journeys and the passenger, or Agent.

For more information contact : res@rufaro.co.za