Luxury South African Epicurean Escape
13 Days - Daily
Embark on this 13 day luxury tour that blends adventure, culture, and indulgence. Begin in Johannesburg, then head to Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge for thrilling game drives. In Cape Town, explore Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, and savor local flavors on a culinary walking tour.
Continue to Grootbos Forest Lodge for unique nature experiences, then visit Franschhoek to enjoy world-class wines and gourmet cuisine at Leeu House. Conclude your adventure in Cape Town, departing with unforgettable memories and a rich palate from South Africa’s finest offerings. This luxurious tour offers the perfect mix of relaxation, adventure, and culinary delights.
from USD $9870pp
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Itinerary Highlights
- Experience thrilling game drives and wildlife viewing at the luxurious Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge.
- Discover the beauty of Cape Town with guided tours of Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, and the vibrant city itself.
- Savor local flavors and culinary delights on a walking food tour through Cape Town’s diverse neighborhoods.
- Enjoy unique nature experiences and luxurious accommodations at Grootbos Forest Lodge.
- Indulge in world-class wines and explore boutique art galleries in the picturesque town of Franschhoek.
Itinerary in Brief
- Day 1: Arrive in Johannesburg
- Day 2: Fly to Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge
- Day 3: Game Viewing Activites
- Day 4: Game Viewing Activites
- Day 5: Fly to Cape Town via Johannesburg
- Day 6: Full Day City & Table Mountain Tour
- Day 7: Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour
- Day 8: Full Day Cape Town Eats Walking Tour
- Day 9: Transfer to Grootbos Forest Lodge
- Day 10: Grootbos Forest Lodge Experiences
- Day 11: Transfer to Leeu House in Franschhoek
- Day 12: Full Day Valley Boutique Art & Wine
- Day 13: Transfer to Cape Town Airport
Tailor-made suggestions for this itinerary
- Consider changing your transfer from Gansbaai to Franschhoek on day 9 for a scenic tour in this beautiful area.
- Spend a few extra days in Botswana and explore the majestic Okavango Delta.
- Add in a few days to explore the famous Kruger National Park
- Add a a few extra days to witness the breathtaking Victoria Falls
Arrive to Johannesburg, overnight at airport hotel
On arrival into Johannesburg Airport you will make your way outside of the arrivals hall and take the complimentary shuttle service to your airport hotel.
Depending on your selected hotel, you could opt for walking from the terminal to your hotel.
Johannesburg to Madikwe
Today you will fly from Johannesburg to Madikwe for your lodge stay.
Federal Air representative will meet guests in the main arrivals areas and assisted onto the shuttle transfer to Federal Air Terminal. However, guests staying at an airport hotel or those who missed the Federal Air representative, should make own way as follows: Exit the Terminal on the lower (ground) level & walk towards the IC Hotel. To the side of the IC Hotel, enter the multi-story parkade & stay on the lower level. Follow the signs to the bus terminal, which is behind the IC Hotel. At the bus terminal, look out for the Federal Air Guest Services booth.
Please note:
- Luggage restricted to 20kg per person in soft one-flat sided bag (size 40x30x60cm).
- Hand luggage restricted to 1 piece per person at 5kg.
- Excess baggage will be charged for & only allowed if within specifications.
4 Day Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge
Tucked away in the far north of South Africa is a 75,000 hectare, malaria-free wilderness inhabited by a profusion of species from Vervet monkeys to Leopard and - of course - the odd very fortunate human! Madikwe is widely acknowledged as being one of the finest conservation areas in Africa.
Jamala Madikwe is a luxury boutique safari lodge within the reserve that offers its lucky guests the ultimate safari experience, complete with the ability to enjoy daily "Sofa Safaris". There are very few places in Africa where you can sit and watch wild elephants play at a waterhole 20 meters in front of you. The Sofa Safari will evoke incredible emotion for any traveller.
Your stay includes: all meals, local brand drinks, 2 game drives per day, and conservancy fees.
Arrival Day
Arrive to the stunning Jamala Madikwe today and settle in to your luxurious accommodation. After high tea in the lounge, enjoy your first afternoon game drive on the reserve this afternoon before returning to the lodge for drinks around the fire and a delicious dinner under the African night sky.
Lunch and Dinner included.
Game Viewing Activites
Bordering Botswana, this semi-arid reserve has an overlapping of habitats and an abundance of wildlife in addition to many of the unique desert species such as brown hyena and aardwolf. It features dramatic scenery with huge craggy mountains and hills, and the red sand of the nearby Kalahari Desert. Your twice daily game drives provide the opportunity to view the big 5, antelope such as sable, oribi and springbok, as well as rare cheetah and wild dog. Early mornings mean you are up to hear the fresh chattering of birds and view creatures about their business.
Spend some time resting after the morning drive, and in the afternoon, hop aboard open safari vehicles and enjoy the change-over as the nocturnal animals become active and the stars come out. Spotlights are used to aid in finding the animals. Should the option be available, a walking safari, is an exhilarating way to immerse yourself in the wilderness and learn about smaller creatures and plant life.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Departure Day
Enjoy a final morning game drive in the reserve before breakfast at the lodge and check out.
Breakfast included.
Madikwe to Johannesburg
Today you will fly from Madikwe to Johannesburg.
Please note:
- Luggage restricted to 20kg per person in soft one-flat sided bag (size 40x30x60cm).
- Hand luggage restricted to 1 piece per person at 5kg.
- Excess baggage will be charged for & only allowed if within specifications.
Flight: Johannesburg to Cape Town
Today you will take a flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town
Arrive in Cape Town
On arrival into Cape Town Airport you will be met by our representative and transferred to your hotel.
Cape Town's most distinctive feature is its stunning setting: it lies on a dramatic coastline of pristine white beaches and ice waters, overlooked by the iconic flat-topped Table Mountain. Its attractions cover the natural world and the country's fascinating history in equal measure.
Breakfast included.
Full Day City & Table Mountain Tour - Explore
Take the cable car up Table Mountain for incredible panoramas enjoyed along with freshly brewed coffee and home-baked treats (after a short hike away from the crowds). Descend and wander through the inner city, soaking up the vibe through a combination of historic tales, witnessing modern culture and meeting the people. Focusing on food, design, arts and crafts we uncover a selection of historical sites, such as Company’s Garden, Green Market Square and St George’s Cathedral. We touch on the fascinating and controversial politics that have shaped the city. Then it’s on to the Bo-Kaap, with its brightly coloured 17th century houses and cobble stone streets before visiting local upliftment projects impacting positively on the talented artists and crafters. We explore Bree Street, a hotspot for artisans, fashion, jewellery and interior design. End the day mingling with locals at a cool city haunt, rooftop bar or beach cove.
Duration: Approximately 9 hours
Pickup and Dropoff from your hotel
Includes: Entrance fees, fast track fee, selection of craft beers, wines, local gins & tonic, specialist tea, coffee & hot chocolate, juices, ice tea, gourmet pantry with home baked goodies & local snacks,
*Extras included: 1 x Entrance Fee; 1 x Lunch - Local Eats
* Please note that the Table Mountain Cableway tends to close for annual maintenance usually from mid July until the beginning of September. If this happens again in 2025, during the closure, we can include a drive to Signal Hill to take in the amazing views of Table mountain from there. Table Mountain has not released their 2025 Maintenance dates yet.
Breakfast and Lunch included.
Full Day Cape Peninsula Tour - Explore
Our tour begins at the working fishing harbour of Kalk Bay, with its bohemian arts and crafts shops, quirky boutiques, and antiques stores. We head to the richly historic Simon’s Town, a naval town with museums and monuments to bring insight into the colourful past and the shark diving industry. We go in search of our own splinter colony of rogue penguins, away from the crowded boardwalks, on a beach known only to locals. Next its on to the Cape Peninsula for a gentle hike to explore the reserve’s secluded beaches and unique wildlife.
Our return to Cape Town is via Noordhoek Farm Village a food artisan hub of the Peninsula OR alternatively, pop into a gorgeous Constantia wine estate, a well-known wine-producing area, one of the oldest in the southern hemisphere. Time permitting, we may stop for a sundowner at a local brewery, vineyard, beach or scenic look-out.
Please note: your guide may advise route changes to beat the crowds.
Duration: Approximately 9 hours
Pickup and Dropoff from your hotel
Includes: Entrance fees, selection of craft beers, wines, local gins & tonic, specialist tea, coffee & hot chocolate, juices, ice tea, gourmet pantry with home baked goodies & local snacks
*Extras included: 1 x Entrance Fee; 1 x Lunch - Fine Dining or Wild Picnic
Breakfast and Lunch included.
Full Day Cape Town Eats Walking Tour
After collection from your hotel you'll have the opportunity to explore Cape Town from all sides as this tour aims to climb under the skin of the city so that by the end of the day you understand the pulse of the city. Explore the history, the people, their cultures, their cuisines, as well as contemporary Cape Town and its artisanal trends. You will walk the city flat as you explore and taste the city. The tour will be tailored by your guide depending on your interest and taste and will reflect on the positive outcomes, the creativity and the entrepreneurial spirit of the Capetonians. So, if you like history, sweet things, coffee, savoury bites, shopping etc. your guide will make sure to take you to their favourite spots and ensure you have an immersive experience in the city!
Duration: Approximately 7 hours
Includes: City entrance fees, food tasting, non-alcoholic drinks and transfers from local Cape Town hotels to and from venue.
Breakfast included.
Cape Town to Grootbos
Today, get ready for an exciting journey as we pick you up from your Cape Town hotel and embark on a picturesque 2.5-hour drive to your luxurious retreat in Grootbos, where adventure and breathtaking natural beauty await you!
Grootbos is a private nature reserve located near Gansbaai, just a short drive from Cape Town. Renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, Grootbos offers luxurious accommodations nestled amidst lush fynbos landscapes and ancient milkwood forests. The reserve is celebrated for its commitment to conservation and sustainable tourism, providing guests with the opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems, spot the Big Five of marine life, and enjoy activities such as guided nature walks, horseback riding, whale watching, and exploring coastal caves. Grootbos seamlessly combines luxury and nature, making it an ideal destination for eco-conscious travelers seeking both adventure and relaxation.
3 Day Grootbos Forest Lodge
With breathtaking panoramic views of mountain and sea, Grootbos Private Nature Reserve is a luxurious pristine paradise showcasing the splendour of the Cape Floral Kingdom and the incredible marine life of the southern tip of Africa. Situated 2 hours from Cape Town, Grootbos is the perfect base to discover all the magnificent attractions of the Cape, offering an extensive variety of guided experiences and luxurious facilities. In addition to guided nature walks and drives, activities at Grootbos include horse riding, fishing, birdwatching, and whale watching.
Arrival Day
Arrive to the picturesque Forest Lodge today. After a celebratory drink on arrival, enjoy a delicious lunch either in our restaurant or on the deck outside. After lunch, check in to your suite and make yourself comfortable. Take some time to get familiar with your surroundings or, depending on your arrival time, you may have the opportunity to participate in your first Forest Lodge experience.
Dinner included.
Grootbos Forest Lodge Experiences
Grootbos Forest Lodge offers an extensive range of activities during your stay, each of which have been inspired by your pristine surroundings and has conservation and community at its core. Horse-riding (weight limit restriction applies), Botanical Fynbos hike, Milkwood forest walk, 4x4 flower safari, coastal drive with seasonal land-based whale watching (July - December), beach picnics, ancient Klipgat Cave and Walker Bay Nature Reserve beach excursion.
Here are also some activities you might be interested at an additional cost:
- Lady Stanford river cruise
- Fatbike tours
- Scenic flights
- Spa treatments
- Shark cage diving
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner included.
Grootbos Forest Lodge Departure Day
After a final breakfast in the restaurant, depart Grootbos with a host of memories you won’t soon forget.
Breakfast included.
Transfer to your hotel in Franschhoek
Today you will be picked up by our representative and driven to Franschhoek in the Cape Winelands.
An easy drive from Cape Town, the Winelands dramatic mountains stand guard over a quilt of working vineyards, elegant Cape Dutch estates and quaint towns boasting top restaurants, hotels and spas. Sample some of the regions award-winning wine offerings, stroll through exquisitely maintained gardens or explore art galleries and antique shops in the oak-lined streets of the local towns. The buzzing university village of Stellenbosch was named after the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel and, as the historic hub of the Winelands it is surrounded by around 200 wineries.
Franschhoek, a charming town with French Hugenot heritage is arguably the culinary headquarters of the country and home to the creative genius of a number of resident chefs. Framed by a majestic backdrop of the Helderberg Mountains, Paarl lies peacefully nestled amongst vineyards laden with the harvest's finest offerings.
Enjoy gourmet meals lovingly prepared by experienced chefs and served in lush gardens, or stylish restaurants. Sample local wines and explore the cellars of well-established wine farms. The Winelands is all about stepping back from the hectic pace of modern living, and appreciating the finer things in life in some of the most gorgeous and tranquil locations this country has to offer.
***Consider changing this transfer for a scenic tour with with Art Trip (Dominic Dear) to truly enjoy the journey through this beautiful area. Dominic will discuss the routing with you to ensure your interests and expectations are met. Cost to change the transfer for the Hermanus, Walker Bay & Elgin Tour is approx. USD170 per person more.
Full Day Valley Boutique Art & Wine
Once collected from your hotel enjoy the day discovering the best of Franschhoek, from the history of the valley to its fine boutique wine farms, craft breweries, galleries, heritage, architecture, gardens and shopping! Start with an orientation and introduction to the village, discovering the fascinating history of Franschhoek and visiting some of the best local galleries on foot.
After a morning coffee stop at Terbodore coffee roasters, the remainder of the day will be tailored to your specific interest, may it be great wine then visit three estates, or craft beer you visit three breweries, if you are an art lover you will experience three fantastic collections and there’s something special for keen gardeners too! In between the various stops enjoy stunning views and tranquillity from Berg River Dam viewpoint and Groot Drakenstein mountains. Also visit the iconic Nelson Mandela statue at Drakenstein prison before stopping for lunch at a local restaurant (lunch not included).
Duration: 8 hours
Pickup and Dropoff from your hotel
Includes: Entrance Fees, snack break and pick up from hotels in the Franschhoek area.
Transfer to Cape Town Airport
At the scheduled time today you will be met at your hotel in Franschhoek and transferred to Cape Town airport.
Daily
Season | Type | From | Special Offer |
---|---|---|---|
06 Jan 2025 - 12 Jan 2025 | USD $10727pp | ||
Package price | USD $10727pp | Contact us | |
13 Jan 2025 - 28 Feb 2025 | USD $10721pp | ||
Package price | USD $10721pp | Contact us | |
01 Mar 2025 - 31 Mar 2025 | USD $10646pp | ||
Package price | USD $10646pp | Contact us | |
01 Apr 2025 - 30 Apr 2025 | USD $10670pp | ||
Package price | USD $10670pp | Contact us | |
01 May 2025 - 31 Jul 2025 | USD $9870pp | ||
Package price | USD $9870pp | Contact us | |
01 Aug 2025 - 31 Aug 2025 | USD $10623pp | ||
Package price | USD $10623pp | Contact us | |
01 Sep 2025 - 02 Dec 2025 | USD $10948pp | ||
Package price | USD $10948pp | Contact us |
**Prices are per person based on twin / shared accommodation.
**Single supplements may apply
Package price
Johannesburg, South Africa - Intercontinental Johannesburg OR Tambo Airport
Madikwe, South Africa - Jamala Madikwe
Cape Town, South Africa - Camissa House
Gansbaai, South Africa - Grootbos Forest Lodge
Franschhoek, South Africa - Leeu House
Whats included?
- 12 Nights Accommodation
- Jamala Madikwe Royal Safari Lodge includes all meals, local drinks, activities and transfers to and from landing strip. Activities: early morning and evening game drives. Maximum 6 guests per vehicle.
- Grootbos Forest Lodge includes breakfast, light lunch, 5-course dinner, welcome drink, water, soft drinks, minibar, tea and coffee and transfers to/from all activities. Activities: Horse-riding (weight limit restriction applies), Botanical Fynbos hike, Milkwood forest walk, 4x4 flower safari, coastal drive with seasonal land-based whale watching (July - December), beach picnics, ancient Klipgat Cave and Walker Bay Nature Reserve beach excursion.
- Transfers as specified
- 3 flights: Johannesburg/Madikwe/Johannesburg and Johannesburg to Cape Town
- Activities as specified
- Park Fees/ Conservation levies / Entrance fees / Taxes as specified
What’s not included?
- International arrival & departure flights to/from Johannesburg
- Visa fees
- Travel insurance
- Tips
- Any meals and drinks not mentioned as included
- Optional activities
- Personal purchases
- Any items not mentioned as included
Notes
- Please note: Park fees are quoted based on current rates and are subject to change at any time. If the local Wildlife Authority decides to increase their park fees after you have booked a safari trip, Eclipse Travel will need to add a supplement to your booking to cover the additional cost.
- The prices on our website will give you a very good estimate of the cost of this itinerary, however there might be a small variation in price due to the fluctuating costs of the internal flights and potential overlap between the rate seasons of different suppliers. To get an exact quote, please speak to one of our consultants who will provide you with a detailed itinerary and quote based on your specific travel dates.