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Southern Africa Grand Tour View Full Screen Itinerary

14 NIGHTS, VICTORIA FALLS, ROVOS RAIL LUXURY TRAIN, JOHANNESBURG, CAPE TOWN, SABI SANDS GAME RESERVE

This incredible 14 night itinerary takes you to some of Southern Africa's most spectacular destinations. including the mighty Victoria Falls on the boarder of Zambia and Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe's largest National Park the beautiful Hwangwe National Park, Botswana and of course South Africa, from the stunning Cape to the Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve in the north east. 

EXPERIENCE THE VERY BEST OF AFRICA WITH THE GRAND SOUTHERN AFRICA TOUR 

Throughtout this luxury tour of southern Africa you can expect to be staying in true luxury hotels and acommodation including three nights in a deluxe suite on the world famous Rovos Rail. The 'Pride of Africa' harks back to the golden era of luxury travel encapsulating elegance and old world style. The train will take you from Victoria Falls in Zambia to Pretoria in South Africa via Zimbabwe and Botswana's captital city of Gabarone. From the viewing car you will be able to see parts of these stunning countries few travellers are able to witness as the railway track snakes it's way through remote rural Africa. 

Witness some of the best game viewing on offer anywhere in Africa from Hwanage National Park in Zimbabwe to the world famous Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve in the Greater Kruger area of South Africa. 

ITINERARY HIGHLIGHTS

  • SEE THE MIGHTY VICTORIA FALLS 
  • TRAVEL IN STYLE ON THE WORLD FAMOUS ROVOS RAIL
  • EXPERIENCE JOHANNESBURG AND CAPE TOWN TWO OF AFRICA BEST CITIES
  • TRAVEL THROUGH REMOTE PARTS OF RURAL AFRICA
  • GAME VIEWING IN THE SABI SANDS PRIVATE GAME RESERVE
  • LUXURY ACCOMMODATION THROUGHOUT
Day 1

Day 1: Arrival in South Africa and onward travel to Zambia

On arrival at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, a Sandgrouse Travel representative will be waiting for you at the door of your aircraft. They will have your name on a paging board so you cannot miss them. You will be shown through to immigration, baggage reclaim and then on...

On arrival at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, a Sandgrouse Travel representative will be waiting for you at the door of your aircraft. They will have your name on a paging board so you cannot miss them. You will be shown through to immigration, baggage reclaim and then on to customs. Once through you will then be directed to your onward flight check-in for Zambia.

On arrival in Zambia, you will again be met by a representative who will show you to your private transfer vehicle. This will take you from Victoria Falls Airport to Victoria Falls Hotel where you will stay for two nights.

Having checked in and relaxed at leisure in the afternoon, you’ll be getting ready for a sunset cruise. The luxury Zambezi Explorer catamaran is the sleekest and largest cruise boat in operation on the Zimbabwean side of the river.  You will be able to enjoy the ‘Signature Deck’,  the third level of the boat, offers pure luxury with gourmet hors d’oeuvres and a wide selection of chilled beverages served from the bar. From the boat you will be able to enjoy the river’s abundant wildlife, soak up the atmosphere of drifting down the mighty Zambezi and of course savour a spectacular sunset. This cruise lasts two hours and on your return, you will be taken by private transfer back to your hotel.

Victoria Falls Hotel is an African classic. At over a century old, the property is integral to the area and exudes the splendour of a bygone era. The hotel has, over the years, welcomed many greats and it isn’t hard to see why. With an iconic backdrop of the Victoria Falls Bridge, the ‘Grand Dame’ of the falls remains a firm favourite on many travellers’ ‘bucket lists’.

The hotel stands out as an icon herself; with its white-washed walls and red roof there is a good blend between modern and Edwardian colonial elegance. Inside the long corridors are decorated with drawings of historical maps, photographs of explorers and pioneers to the area. There are 119 front-facing deluxe rooms at the hotel. The adjacent Stable Wing offers 2 honeymoon suites as well as a further 42 rooms.

Outside guests can enjoy the extensive landscaped grounds and gardens where monkeys can be seen playing and warthogs even graze. There is a choice of three dining venues, two lounges, gift shops, a chapel, a swimming pool and tennis court. The hotel itself is only a short 10-minute walk from the Victoria Falls.

Includes: Breakfast, special nightly room turn-down service, complimentary mini bar, an evening cocktail on Stanley’s Terrace, spa voucher (neck and back massage), personal assistant service, private check-in and complimentary Wi-Fi. River usage fee. 

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Day 2

Day 2: Tour of Victoria Falls

Today you will be taken on a private 2-hour tour of Victoria Falls. The Falls’ flow rate reaches its zenith or peak around May each year. This really is an impressive sight, and the awe-inspiring power of the water is something you will always remember. You will be accompanied through...

Today you will be taken on a private 2-hour tour of Victoria Falls. The Falls’ flow rate reaches its zenith or peak around May each year. This really is an impressive sight, and the awe-inspiring power of the water is something you will always remember. You will be accompanied through the rainforest by a qualified guide who will give you a history of the Falls, and of course a breakdown and explanation of the surrounding flora, fauna, birdlife and wildlife. We recommend using the raincoats and protective camera bags provided when needed.

Includes: Transfers to and from Victoria Falls Town, Victoria Falls entrance fee. 

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Day 13

Day 13: Full day on safari in the South African bush

Full day on safari in the South African bush

Full day on safari in the South African bush

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Day 3

Day 3: Victoria Falls to Pretoria on Rovos Rail

Today you will leave Zambia, travelling in style on the world-famous Rovos Rail. The Rovos Rail train departure point at Victoria Falls is conveniently located next to Victoria Falls Hotel, only a short walk away. The journey starts at 17h00 and you will travel in a south-easterly direction towards Zimbabwe’s...

Today you will leave Zambia, travelling in style on the world-famous Rovos Rail. The Rovos Rail train departure point at Victoria Falls is conveniently located next to Victoria Falls Hotel, only a short walk away. The journey starts at 17h00 and you will travel in a south-easterly direction towards Zimbabwe’s largest national park, the Hwange National Park. By 19h30 you will be enjoying dinner in the dining car en-route to your overnight stop.

Rovos Rail is one of the world’s most authentic bygone era luxury rail experiences. Steaming along the tracks through the very heart of the African bush in a relaxed, elegant fashion, it is very easy to imagine colonial days gone by. On the train you will be able to enjoy the fine cuisine served in beautifully furnished Victorian dining cars. The lovingly refurbished and restored Rovos Rail ‘Pride of Africa’ trains accommodate up to 72 guests in 36 superbly appointed suites. Royal and Deluxe Suites accommodate two people and even have a private lounge area. Pullman and Deluxe feature en-suite bathrooms, including Victorian baths.

As soon as they step aboard, guests will notice as soon as they step aboard the meticulous attention to detail. Wood-panelled coaches combine the grandeur and opulence of pre-war travel with innovative, modern yet subtle upgrades. The Rovos Rail trains travel slower than a modern day locomotive, taking time to stop at sites of specific interest along the routes. During these stops, guests are invited to join guided walks, game drives and tours, all conducted at a level of excellence to match the Rovos Rail experience.

Includes: Rovos Rail includes all meals, drinks, sightseeing excursions, 24-hour room service and a limited laundry service. 

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Day 14

Day 14: Final full day on safari

Today is your final full day on safari in the South African bush. 

Today is your final full day on safari in the South African bush. 

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Day 4

Day 4: Your second day on Rovos Rail

Today you will wake up early and enjoy a continental breakfast before disembarking from the train for an early morning game drive at The Hide. Brunch will be served by 11h00 in the main dining car and the afternoon will be spent at leisure on board. Tea is usually served...

Today you will wake up early and enjoy a continental breakfast before disembarking from the train for an early morning game drive at The Hide. Brunch will be served by 11h00 in the main dining car and the afternoon will be spent at leisure on board. Tea is usually served on board around 16h00. At 19h30 dinner will be served and the train will make its way to the Botswana border. 

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Day 5

Day 5: Your third day on Rovos Rail

Breakfast will be served as the train makes its way to the border via Botswana’s capital city Gaborone. By midday the train will arrive at the South African border for formalities at Ramatlabama. Lunch will then be served as the Rovos Rail ‘Pride of Africa’ continues to travel through the...

Breakfast will be served as the train makes its way to the border via Botswana’s capital city Gaborone. By midday the train will arrive at the South African border for formalities at Ramatlabama. Lunch will then be served as the Rovos Rail ‘Pride of Africa’ continues to travel through the farmlands of the Marico Valley. As usual, dinner will be served at 19h30 as the train traverses the beautiful Magaliesberg Mountain Range. 

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Day 6

Day 6: Arrive in Pretoria and depart Rovos Rail

Breakfast will be served on board until 09h30. Today you will arrive in Pretoria at 10h00 before being collected and transported via private vehicle to your Pretoria accommodation, 54 on Bath.

54 on Bath will be a contrast to your Rovos Rail experience in that it is a contemporary hotel in...

Breakfast will be served on board until 09h30. Today you will arrive in Pretoria at 10h00 before being collected and transported via private vehicle to your Pretoria accommodation, 54 on Bath.

54 on Bath will be a contrast to your Rovos Rail experience in that it is a contemporary hotel in a suburb of Rosebank in northern Johannesburg. Certainly a hotel built with the discerning traveller in mind. Rosebank is a lively business and leisure area of the city and the hotel itself sits on the attractive tree-lined Bath Avenue.  As the hotel is located over 10 floors, guests are able to savour spectacular views over the city of Johannesburg, taking in the skyline or garden below. Rooms include black-out curtains, fluffy duvets, crisp white linen, feather top beds and well-appointed bathrooms, including both baths and showers. The restaurant serves à la carte breakfast, lunch and dinner. There is a swimming pool and terrace to relax at, and a gym should you wish to fit in a work out.

Includes: Breakfast.

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Day 7

Day 7: Johannesburg and Soweto Private Half Day Tour

The tour of Johannesburg and the famous township of Soweto is designed to give you an overall impression and understanding of ‘Egoli’ – the City of Gold, Africa’s commercial and financial capital. Having started the tour with a look around the northern suburbs, you will continue to areas such as...

The tour of Johannesburg and the famous township of Soweto is designed to give you an overall impression and understanding of ‘Egoli’ – the City of Gold, Africa’s commercial and financial capital. Having started the tour with a look around the northern suburbs, you will continue to areas such as Hillbrow and Braamfontein, home to the Constitutional Court of South Africa. After this you’ll head downtown to the famous Carlton Centre for a view of the city from the 50th floor. From here it is onwards to the famous Soweto (South West Township). Soweto is the largest black residential area in South Africa, and certainly presents a fascinating contrast to Rosebank and Sandton in the north, the more salubrious parts to the city. This is a city within a city, home to approximately 3.5 million people. The tour includes a visit to major sites within Soweto, including Nelson Mandela’s former home.

 

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Day 8

Day 8 : Travel to Cape Town – one of the most beautiful cities in the wo

After breakfast your car and driver will be waiting to take you from your hotel to Johannesburg Airport. From here you will fly to Cape Town. On arrival in Cape Town, a Sandgrouse representative will meet you and escort you to your driver who will take you to your city...

After breakfast your car and driver will be waiting to take you from your hotel to Johannesburg Airport. From here you will fly to Cape Town. On arrival in Cape Town, a Sandgrouse representative will meet you and escort you to your driver who will take you to your city hotel. Cape Town’s famous Cape Grace Hotel on the waterfront awaits.  For the next four nights this will be your base from which to explore one of the world’s most beautiful cities.

This afternoon and evening you will be free to enjoy your new surroundings - perhaps take a stroll around the V&A Waterfront and soak up the atmosphere whilst taking in the views of Table Mountain above.

The Cape Grace is a 5* luxury boutique hotel situated on its own private quay between both the working harbour and the luxury international yacht marina. With Table Mountain as a backdrop, it’s hard to beat the location of this world-famous hotel, now synonymous with sophistication and style.

There are 120 luxury rooms at the Cape Grace; all of these rooms are individual, with custom decoration and stylish interiors. The interior design of the hotel celebrates Cape Town’s rich history, showcasing the contrast from bygone to modern. Rooms feature air-conditioning, flat screen televisions, satellite channels, iPod docking stations, fully stocked private mini-bars, deli snacks, tea and coffee making facilities, a private safe, and WiFi. En-suite bathrooms include both a separate shower and bath and are finished in marble.

The main guest areas of the hotel include spacious lounges, a private library, the locally famous Signal Restaurant (serving fine Cape and South African cuisine), the Bascule Whisky, Wine and Cocktail Bar, its collection of over 400 whiskies makes it the largest collection in the southern hemisphere!), 15-metre swimming pool, rooftop fitness studio and spa. Guests also benefit from a luxury chauffeur transfer service within a 20km radius of the hotel (by prior arrangement), a selection of daily newspapers and use of facilities for those early arrivals or late departures.

Includes: Breakfast, luxury chauffeur transfers (2-3 guests within a 10km radius) and Cape orientation.

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Day 9

Day 9 : Discover Cape Town with a Private City and Table Mountain Tour

After breakfast this morning, you will be met at the hotel by your private guide and driver for a half day discovery city tour. This will act as a great familiarisation of your new surroundings and help you find your feet in this incredible city. Uncover what is affectionately known...

After breakfast this morning, you will be met at the hotel by your private guide and driver for a half day discovery city tour. This will act as a great familiarisation of your new surroundings and help you find your feet in this incredible city. Uncover what is affectionately known as ‘The Mother City’ by the locals. Your tour will take in the Houses of Parliament, the Castle of Good Hope (the oldest building in South Africa), the vibrant daily market of Greenmarket Square, Company Gardens and then a trip up the iconic Table Mountain. No trip to Cape Town is complete without a trip up this most beautiful of mountains. On descending the mountain, see the Bo-Kaap area, home to the Cape Malay community and famed for its multi-coloured houses and cobbled streets. Finally you will be dropped off at the V&A Waterfront close to your hotel, in time to discover some of the many restaurants, pubs and shops.

Included: Table Mountain Cableway fee.

The rest of your afternoon and evening are at leisure to enjoy exploring the city. Should you wish, Sandgrouse Travel & Expeditions will happily make a restaurant reservation for you at one of the many first class restaurants throughout the city.

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Day 10

Day 10 : Private Tour of the stunning Cape Winelands

Today you will be picked up early and your driver guide will take you out to the beautiful Cape Winelands. Pass through breathtaking mountain ranges, vineyard carpeted valleys and by Cape Dutch farms. Visit the famous Stellenbosch, a winelands town that boasts not only old world beauty but is steeped...

Today you will be picked up early and your driver guide will take you out to the beautiful Cape Winelands. Pass through breathtaking mountain ranges, vineyard carpeted valleys and by Cape Dutch farms. Visit the famous Stellenbosch, a winelands town that boasts not only old world beauty but is steeped in South African history. Today, in this area, with the sheer number of wine estates on offer, you are truly inundated with choices for some first class wine tasting. If you have a particular preference to white wine, red, or sparkling wine, your guide will do their very best to head to an appropriate vineyard.

After Stellenbosch, you will head up and over the picturesque Helshoogte Pass before dropping down into the town of Franschhoek. Founded by the French Huguenots in the 17th century, they brought with them their wine making skills and settled in what is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful corners of Africa. Franschhoek is now considered the Gourmet Capital of South Africa, with not only a number of excellent wineries but some superb restaurants and many boutique shops selling local artisanal produce. (Lunch here will be on your own at your own expense).

After Franchhoek, your driver guide will take you to the quaint town of Paarl, one of South Africa’s original farming districts. Your final stop for the day is at a Paarl wine estate on the local ‘Paarl Wine Route’.

Finally, you will return to Cape Town by 17h30, where you can either relax at your hotel afteryour enthralling day in the countryside or head out to experience some of the city’s bars - perhaps on Long Street. 

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Day 11

Day 11: Point and Peninsula Tour - Private Full Day Cape

Today you will set off on a full day tour of the staggeringly beautiful Cape Peninsula. On your way out of the city, you will be able to stop and take in the beauty of Clifton and Camps Bay beaches, famed areas for the rich and famous in Cape Town....

Today you will set off on a full day tour of the staggeringly beautiful Cape Peninsula. On your way out of the city, you will be able to stop and take in the beauty of Clifton and Camps Bay beaches, famed areas for the rich and famous in Cape Town. On crossing the mountain pass over to Hout Bay, you can choose to either embark on an optional boat cruise out to Seal Island or continue driving on to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. This particular drive is probably one of the most scenic coastal drives to be found anywhere in the world and takes in Chapman’s Peak. On arriving at the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, you will be able to take the funicular railway to the top of the peninsula and stand where the Indian Ocean meets the Atlantic Ocean. An iconic spot.

After lunch (at your own expense) continue to Simon’s Town where you’ll be able to see the famous African Penguin colony, certainly a memorable experience. On returning to the outer suburbs of Cape Town, there will be time for one last stop before returning to your hotel - the world-famous Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden 

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Day 12

Day 12: Cape Town to the Sabi Sands for safari

This morning you will be taken by private driver to Cape Town Airport where you take an internal flight to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport. On arrival at the airport, your driver will be waiting to take you the short distance to your luxury safari lodge in the heart of the world...

This morning you will be taken by private driver to Cape Town Airport where you take an internal flight to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport. On arrival at the airport, your driver will be waiting to take you the short distance to your luxury safari lodge in the heart of the world famous Sabi Sands Game Reserve.

 

You will spend the next three nights at Savanna Private Game enjoying some of the best safari game viewing on offer anywhere in the world.

 

Located within the world-renowned Sabi Sands area and lying in the western corner, commanding an intimate, secluded setting, the lodge itself is set within extensive open gardens abounding with flowers and boasting views over a floodlit watering-hole.

The lodge has an old fashioned “Out of Africa” charm, blending the bygone era of romance with modern comforts throughout. There are nine suites including a two-bedroom Savanna Suite (a perfect option for families). All suites are free-standing with spacious en-suite bathrooms, with stand-alone baths, and they also have the option of indoor and outdoor showers. Air-conditioning is standard, with ceiling fans, minibar, tea and coffee facilities. Each suite has its own private decking area; however, four of the suites benefit from private plunge pools.

The main lodge has a large lounge area with open patio and game viewing loft. There is a small library which has Internet access, perfect for those who want to upload a few teaser photos for their friends to social media accounts.  Expect gourmet dining and sumptuous breakfasts either on the deck or around the open-air Boma under a star-studded sky. At the main lodge there is also a swimming pool for guests to enjoy which overlooks the gardens and watering-hole.

Savanna Lodge offers morning and afternoon/early evening game drives, a bush walk accompanied by a ranger at request, plus a selected range of relaxing spa treatments with a qualified therapist.

Includes: Two game drives and optional bush walk per day, all meals and drinks (excluding selected wines and imported beverages), game drive drinks and laundry services. Private safari vehicle, private dining and waiter attendance

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Day 15

Day 15: Transfer to Johannesburg Airport

Today your driver guide will be waiting today to take you from Savanna Lodge back to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport. From here you will take your final internal flight back to Johannesburg Airport for your return flight home. 

Today your driver guide will be waiting today to take you from Savanna Lodge back to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport. From here you will take your final internal flight back to Johannesburg Airport for your return flight home. 

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Cape Grace

FIVE-STAR LUXURY ON THE CAPE TOWN WATERFRONT   A stay at the world famous Cape Grace is an experience in itself. The hotel...

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Savanna Private Game Reserve

LUXURY AND PEACE IN THE HEART OF THE SABI SANDS  An exclusive 5 star lodge, Savanna Private Game Reserve is located within the...

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Rovos Rail - 'Pride of Africa'

EXPERIENCE THE LUXURY OF A BYGONE GOLDEN ERA The Rovos Rail has earned an international reputation for its truly world class travel experiences. Exceptional...

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54 on Bath

SITUATED IN THE BEATING HEART OF JO'BURG  Situated in the leafy Johannesburg suburb of Rosebank, the 54 on Bath hotel offers...

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Victoria Falls Hotel

EDWARDIAN-STYLE FIVE-STAR HOTEL  The Victoria Falls Hotel, popularly known as “the grand old lady of the Falls”, is situated in the...

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