Southern Africa Escapades 3 to 5 Star (18 Days) SAE18D

No other South African prison incarcerated the number of world-renowned men and women as those held within the walls of Constitution Hill’s Old Fort, Women's Jail and Number Four. During its 100-year history as a prison, tens of thousands of ordinary people, men and women of all ages, races, creeds, social standings, and political agendas, as well as children, were incarcerated here. Most recent prisoners included Nelson Mandela, Mahatma Gandhi, Joe Slovo, Albertina Sisulu, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela and Fatima Meer.

The history of every South African can be traced through its existence. It began in 1893 as prison, and while it continued to function as one, it also evolved into a military fort, a prisoner of war camp, a prison for strikers, women, neo-nazis, and political prisoners fighting against apartheid. In the worst period of Apartheid, it became a national monument.

Almost 100 years after it was commissioned, it was closed. Never in the best of repair, it was now left to fall into even worse decay.

After becoming newly democratic South Africa’s first black president, Nelson Mandela appointed the Constitutional Court judges. They choose the Old Fort prison complex, commonly known as Number Four, as the site of the new Constitutional Court premises, partly because of its accessibility and the space it provides, but primarily because of its historical and symbolic importance. It was fitting that the Constitutional Court was inaugurated on Human Rights Day, 21 March 1995 by then President Thabo Mbeki. Constitution Hill is open to the public and provides visitors with a unique perspective on South Africa’s remarkable transition to democracy, from the injustices of the past represented by the prison complex, to the democratic future represented by the court which endorses the rights of all citizens.

The Apartheid Museum is vitally important – it’s the heart the apartheid story. It is the pre-eminent museum in the world which chronicles the rise and fall of the apart-ness forced upon 11 million people under the Population Registration Act of 1950. The museum relies on donations, contributions, and sponsorship to operate. While a superb example of design, space and landscape, offering the international community a unique South African experience, a visit to the museum is vital for anyone wanting to learn about the past, and how South Africa has become the warm-hearted, multi-racial country it is today.

The exhibits, assembled and organised by a multi-disciplinary team of curators, film-makers, historians, and designers, include provocative film footage, photographs, text panels and artefacts illustrating the events and human stories of Apartheid.

There are three main types of exhibits at the Apartheid Museum:

• The Permanent Exhibition

South Africa’s struggle for liberation was long and difficult. After centuries of colonialism, and more than 40 years of apartheid, freedom for all South Africans was finally achieved in 1994. The permanent exhibition is a trip through time from those dark days to a place of healing founded on the principles of a democracy.

Apartheid was founded on racial classification. To ensure everyone knew ‘where they belonged’, people were classified as, ‘native’, ‘coloured’, ‘Asian’ or ‘white’. Many identity documents, the main tool used to enforce this, are on display in the museum.

To make everyday reality under apartheid a more visceral experience, visitors are arbitrarily classified as either white or non-white on arrival. Once classified, visitors can only enter the museum through the appropriate gate.

• The Mandela Exhibit

Nelson Mandela, South Africa’s first black president, was central to South Africa’s struggle against apartheid. He spent 27 years in prison, many of them on Robben Island, as a result. He was pivotal to the 1990 negotiations, and built a new nation, one very few believed was possible. In prison, Mandela discovered the power of forgiveness, and in 1995, one year after South Africa’s independence, he appointed Archbishop Desmond Tutu to chair the Truth and Reconciliation Commission to promote re-conciliation and forgiveness among perpetrators and victims of apartheid.

• The other exhibits are constantly changing and always well-worth experiencing.

In Johannesburg, a city larger than New York or London, is another city, the largest black township of its kind in South Africa. This is Soweto, the South Western Townships, which started as housing for gold mine workers. It’s made up of 32 different townships and running through it for less than half a kilometre is one of the 5 most famous streets in South Africa, Vilakazi Street.  

The street is named after Dr BW Vilakazi, a poet, novelist and intellectual. Employed as a 'language assistant' because Apartheid law didn’t allow black lecturers, he was the first black man to teach at the University of the Witwatersrand. With a PhD in literature, he helped develop the written form of both isiZulu and siSwati and helped put together the isiZulu dictionary.

While Diagonal Street, Donkin Street, Long Street and Victoria Embankment are famous for skyscrapers, hotels, churches and trendy shops and restaurants, Vilakazi Street is famous for the fact that 2 Nobel Peace Prize winners lived here, at the same time. Nelson Mandela went on to become the world’s most famous political prisoner and the first democratic President of South Africa. Desmond Tutu became the first black Bishop of Johannesburg and Archbishop Emeritus of Cape Town.

Between 1946 and 1962, Nelson Mandela lived at 8115 Vilakazi St, Orlando West and where he spent the first few nights with his former wife, Winnie Mandela, after his release from 27 years of imprisonment. This home is now the Mandela House Museum.

Across the road, is the home of The Arch, as Desmond Tutu is fondly called. When he’s in town can occasionally be seen strolling along Vilakazi Street.

On the corner of Vilakazi and Moema Streets is the Hector Peterson Museum and memorial. The young student, Hector Peterson was killed by police during the June 16, 1976 uprising. Today, June 16 is the South African public holiday, Youth Day. Nearby is Uncle Tom’s Hall. One of the few government buildings left alone during the riots because of the integral part it played as a community centre for the people living in Soweto.

A couple of well-known restaurants, Nambitha and Sakhumzi, with local cuisine as their speciality, the only community television station in the city, Soweto Tv which is broadcast from a classroom in the local primary school, art, and dance troupes are now all found on Vilakazi Street. A guided tour is definitely the best way to visit and experience this small but vibrant stretch of history.

One of the most famous addresses in Johannesburg, South Africa is 8115 Vilakazi Street, Orlando West, Soweto. The Street is named after the first black man to teach at the University of Witwatersrand, Dr BW Vilakazi, an intellectual, poet and novelist. Unfortunately, while the ‘rules’ of apartheid kept him at the level of a language assistant, he went on to obtain his PhD in Literature and helped develop the isiZulu dictionary and the written form of isiZulu and siSwati - two of the eleven official South African languages. The street also honours 12-year old Hector Pietersen who was killed by police in the 1976 student uprising against the Apartheid government. Vilakazi Street is most famously home to two Nobel Peace Prize Laureates – Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela.

Built in 1945, Mandela House was the home of Nelson Mandela from 1946 to 1962. And while he didn’t spend all of his life here the museum strives to tell the story of President Nelson Mandela’s family home and his life as a whole in an environment of democracy, dignity, human rights, mutual respect, reconciliation and tolerance as a world-class visitor attraction. Mandela, then a lawyer and political activist, lived here with his family, his first wife, Evelyn and, after their divorce, with his second wife, Winnie – before going on the run from the law. His family continued to live here while he was in jail.

It was such an important place to Nelson Mandela that he said, “That night I returned with Winnie to No 8115 in Orlando West. It was only then that I knew in my heart I had left prison. For me, No 8115 was the centre point of my world, the place marked with an X in my mental geography.”

In 2008, Nelson Mandela turned 90, and on July 18 a major restoration and restructuring of the home was begun. Construction of a new Visitor Centre, sourcing original fabrics, designing, and installing exhibitions took place and the museum reopened a year later. The Mandela House is managed by the Apartheid Museum on behalf of the Soweto Heritage Trust. While maintaining an effective, efficient, and meaningful experience for all visitors, the museum is also a leading centre for the preservation, presentation, and research of the historical heritage and Mandela Family legacy. The Mandela House was declared a Public heritage site in 1999.

One can enjoy a gentle and luxurious hot air balloon flight over the majestic Magaliesberg range and the scenic Magalies River Valley with Bill Harrop’s Original Balloon Safaris. The flight provides magnificent and inspiring views of the Cradle of Humankind World Heritage Site situated in a location with that boasts reliable and safe weather ideal for drifting delicately over the tree tops while sipping fine champagne and cherishing the African sunrise with the soft calls of the birds and animals below.

Three hours from Johannesburg’s OR Tambo Airport, and situated in South Africa’s beautiful Mpumalanga Province, is a place deep within a magnificent forest commonly referred to as ‘Scotland’s Only Outpost in Africa’ or ‘the Place of Eternal Mist’. On the map, it’s called Dullstroom. Despite its widespread appeal, the quaint village of Dullstroom still has its own calm, distinctive, and singular atmosphere. The area is known for its excellent fishing opportunities. In fact, the town is the unofficial capital of the piscatorial sport in South Africa. It’s taken so seriously that bait fishing and spinning is not allowed. Dullstroom marks the source of the Crocodile River and is home to other major tributaries providing excellent river and still water fishing as their streams and dams are stocked with both rainbow and brown trout. If fishing isn’t your thing, some dams, thankfully, allow float tubes.

The area’s sub-alpine climate, abundant wildflowers, rare mammals and 3 endangered crane species, not to mention its fresh country air, make hiking through the surrounding areas an unforgettable experience. The three most popular trails are the Ama Poot-Poot, the Num Num and the Elangeni Hiking Trail. The Verloren Valei, a closed reserve north-east of Dullstroom, is the source of 4 rivers making it a wetland of international importance. Because it is so special it can only be visited by appointment or on one of the Friends of Verloren Valei field trips.

If staying in town is more your scene, exploring the original architecture, quaint stores, artisan shops, art galleries and spas which line Dullstroom’s main street is a delightful way to spend a day.

At 6,814 feet above sea level, Dullstroom has the highest railway station in South Africa. Two festivals you may enjoy are the Ducktobeer Beer Fest and the Dullstroom Winter Festival in July. Dullstroom serves as a convenient stopover for visitors on the way to or from the Lowveld and Kruger Park.

It’s a passion born from the time spent waiting for a fish to bite, a love fed by spending days alone outdoors and the sense of satisfaction that arises when reeling in a record-breaking trout.

Whether you’re a beginner learning how to tie a Royal Coachman or a long-time fisherman perfecting your dry fly-fishing technique, you’ll enjoy Dunkeld Country & Equestrian’s high-quality fly-fishing environment.

Dullstroom is recognised as South Africa’s premier fly-fishing destination and Dunkeld – with its 19 well-stocked still water dams – gives visitors the chance to experience this for themselves. Trout were introduced into the area in the 1900s because the cool waters and climate provided ideal conditions. Stocked with Rainbow Trout, Dunkeld offers enthusiasts the chance to spend time in pursuit of the perfect catch.

Our trail centre horses are well trained and trustworthy, giving even the most novice rider the confidence to enjoy a ride in the Dullstroom countryside. Our Equestrian Centre is a popular destination for short weekend riding workshops for the more experienced rider.

Learn more about this exciting operation that keeps our dams stocked and supplies the northern hemisphere with 60 million live trout eggs!

Overview
Meet the five giants ambling towards you in the cool of the early morning. The elephants know they’re in for a treat as you’ll get to share their favourite cubes with them and then indulge them with a brush down. It’s during times like these that you’ll really see how deep the relationship between these amazing creatures and their handlers goes. Meander with the elephants as they enjoy their breakfast ramble and meal. End the morning as five of the gentlest creatures you’ll ever meet enjoy a swim in the dam and will have plenty of incredible photo-ops.

About Elephant Whispers
There is no other place for African elephants except the wild, and Elephant Whispers is no exception. The five elephants which make up the small herd at Elephant Whispers each have their own individual quirks and distinctive personalities and the incredible bond between each other, and the team of humans who have dedicated their lives to caring for them, is incredibly moving and humbling. This amazing place is called Elephant Whispers because of its founder, one of the world’s truly unique people, Zimbabwean Rory Hensman. When he acquired two young orphaned elephants, Jumbo and Miss Ellie, he soon realized elephants are incredibly intelligent and responsive to human interaction. Soon those who were critical of his unique methods which proved African Elephant didn’t need to be tamed by means of submission were stunned. His patience, trust and respect earned Rory the title of ‘Elephant Whisperer’. As a result of his loving care, which he taught to the team, the elephants at Elephant Whispers now feel so safe and cared for that they generously extend their warmth towards guests. As they have only ever been shown kindness and love, all five elephants are completely safe for humans of all ages and even disabilities. The largest and oldest elephant in the herd is 34-year-old Tembo. Standing over 11 feet high, this gentle giant, and protector of his herd, towers over humans and the other elephants. The youngest member of the herd is 17-year-old Lindiwe who stands nearly 9 feet tall.

The Code of Ethics at Elephant Whispers
Elephant Whispers runs on a strict code of ethics. The welfare and emotional health of the elephants is of paramount importance to the team. Elephant Whispers’ goal is their safety, health and contentment. As a result, the animals’ gentle nature is respected as is the dynamics of the herd. And method of interaction which involves ‘breaking the animals’ spirit is considered animal brutality at its worst and is not engaged in at all. Instead a bi-lateral ‘ask and reward’ technique, based on mutual respect, is the only approved way of working with the elephants at Elephant Whispers. The elephants are never chained. Their movement is not restricted in any way. In fact, if the elephants wanted to wander off into the bush and not return, they can. The elephants stay at Elephant Whispers out of choice. Their dignity is respected at all times and will never be trained to behave in undignified or ‘theatrical’ ways. Time spent with guests is limited. Roaming freely, feeding and interacting with each other is most important. Breeding isn’t undertaken at Elephant Whispers and the male, Tembo, is given a six-monthly GNRH vaccine to prevent pregnancies.

Adopt an Elephant
What a precious gift, for yourself or for someone else – being part of one elephant’s life for a year! Adopt one, or more of the herd, contribute to their care, and get access to your elephant’s Facebook page, an adoption certificate and profile, regular updates on your elephant as well as a voucher for 2 to visit Elephant Whispers.

Community Involvement
Elephant Whispers is also very involved with the community. Entokozweni Crèche, Alexandria Lower Primary School and Rindzani High School as well as the Hosanna Community Projects and Hospice have all benefitted from the generosity of Elephant Whispers in one way or another and continue to do so. Children with cancer have, thanks to the Rotary Club’s Camp Quality have had an encounter with the herd which brings a measure of joy to their lives. Then there are those people who have been blind from birth and have no ‘picture’ in their mind of the sheer size, power, and distinctive physical characteristics of the majestic African Elephant. A guided ‘touch experience’ with the elephants opens up a whole new word for them.

Research for Elephant Health and Safety
Dr Kruger with students from the University of Western Kentucky in the USA is conducting ways to help local communities live with wild elephants, especially when it comes to crop safety, and the herd at Elephant Whispers is part of his research team. Another part of his research is the vital role elephants play in seed dispersal.

Taking the ‘Panorama Route’ in South Africa means falling head long into an immersive adventure. The Panorama Route is steeped in history, famous natural land formations, incredible waterfalls, caves and canyons. Set deep in the Mpumalanga Province, it is centred around the Blyde River Canyon. There is no other canyon like it in the world and is uniquely African. It is the third largest canyon in the world and is exceptional for being the largest forested canyon in the world. The views from the rim are spectacular. They seem to stretch forever filled with waterfalls, wildlife and of course the indigenous forest nearly 3000 feet below. The forest is home to an enormous diversity of wildlife, from fish and other water inhabitants such as crocodiles and hippos, antelope species and every primate species South Africa has. Among the many species of birds found here is the beautiful and much sought Narina trogon, a bird named after the mistress of French ornithologist François Levaillant. And when you hear the haunting cry of the African fish eagle, you’ll have heard the heart of Africa.

The area was once home to mysterious civilizations whose presence is only felt through the hollow terracotta sculptures dating back to 500AD which they left behind. These are known as the Lydenburg Heads. Many of the small towns found along the route, such as Pilgrim’s Rest- a small museum town, was created as a result of the gold rush of the late 1880s. The village holds the National Gold Panning Championships every year.

Famous for its many mountain passes, the panorama route has a number of viewing spots revealing the different faces of this amazing location. Among them are the views to God’s Window, the Lowveld Viewpoint, the Pinnacle Rock view, and the view of the Three Rondavels.

Famous for its many mountain passes, the panorama route has a number of viewing spots revealing the different faces of this amazing location. Among them are the views from the Lowveld Viewpoint, the Pinnacle Rock view, the Three Rondavels, and of course, God’s Window.

A steep footpath cum stairway leads heaven-ward from the car park. At the edge of the escarpment a boardwalk meanders through the peaceful rainforest. Moss covered trees, little streams, and boulders lead the way to the highest and most inspiring viewpoint, appropriately called God’s Window. From here you will gaze down across the largest green canyon in the world, the 2nd largest canyon in Africa and the 3rd largest on earth. Sheer cliffs plunge over 3000 feet into canyons that seemingly stretch forever laced with plunging waterfalls, and thick indigenous forest nearly 3000 feet below. The Blyde River Canyon has some of the deepest precipitous cliffs of any canyon on the planet. From God’s Window, this nearly 250km long unbroken rampart of cliffs, it feels as if one can see forever on a clear day. When there are no clouds to obscure the view, you can see over the Kruger National Park towards the Lebombo Mountains on the border with Mozambique. And on an exceptionally fine day, you can see as far as the Indian Ocean 215 miles away.

Lisbon Falls, the highest in this Province are at the centre of Mpumalanga’s Waterfall heart. There are more waterfalls in this region than anywhere else in Southern Africa, and all of them are both beautiful and dramatic. The Lisbon’s crystal-clear waters cascade 300 feet into the canyon below. And they are especially dramatic when see from the footpath where this tributary of the Blyde River crashes to the ground, splitting into two and disappearing into the lush subtropical foliage. Tree ferns, cycads, orchids, lilies and proteas all nestling under the shade of the green canopy of trees, line the banks of the rivers.

In the late 1800s, when gold was discovered in the region, people from all over the world flocked to South Africa. Gold panners from Portugal flocked to the Mpumalanga region. These falls were named after the Portuguese capital.

Before the gold rush of the late 1800s, Tom Burke found himself in the Mpumalanga region of South Africa. He had a feeling the land was rich in gold, so he staked a claim. Although he was right about the region as a whole, his claim, as luck would have it, came up empty. It’s after this unfortunate prospector that Bourke’s Luck Potholes are named. These bizarre natural water features, hewn by centuries of swirling, rushing water and the sand and debris they carried, mark the start of the Blyde River Canyon. Tom Burke might have enjoyed the irony that although he was unsuccessful, the rock formations named in his honour now glisten with ‘gold’ – coins tossed in by others using the huge, cylindrical Holes as natural wishing wells. The Bourke’s Luck Potholes are otherworldly and dramatic. So much so that Frommer's 500 describe them as one of the places your kids should see before they grow up. Sitting at the confluence of the Treur, ‘the river of sorrow’ and Blyde, ‘the river of joy’, this abstract art of a geological phenomenon is famous for its giant’s kettles, potholes, smooth-sided cylinders, intricate network of tunnels, lines, rock layers and dark plunge pools. It’s a 700m walk to the potholes. A walk consisting of a network of pathways and metal footbridges which take you right above the potholes. Other walkways that go around the ridges open out different views of one of the most popular natural attractions in South Africa. They mark the start of the Panorama Route around the Blyde River Canyon.

Depending on which way you travel the Panorama Route, the Three Rondavels either start or end your journey. Together with God's Window and Bourkes Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels are three of the most famous natural wonders of the largest green canyon in the world. Over millennia, the softer stone around the more resistant quartzite and shale sections have been eroded away, leaving these three towers behind. There are actually 4 sections of free-standing quartzite and shale, but only 3 have the iconic conical tops. Together these formations with their forested summits are also known as the Chief and His Three Wives. The Chief, the flat topped peak next to the rondavels is called Mapjaneng. It is named after the Chief who opposed invading forces from Swaziland in a battle still remembered to this day. His wives, Magabolle, Mogoladikwe and Maseroto after whom the three other formations are named, were troublesome women to say the least. So, why are they known as the Three Rondavels? A rondavel is a traditional circular African dwelling with a conical thatched roof - which is exactly what they resemble. It may also be to avoid confusion with another trio of rock formations far to the South in the Northern Cape known as the Three Sisters.

From the lookout point, the view of the Blyde River Canyon across the Three Rondavels is breath-taking and is widely considered the best in South Africa. The fact that it looks like a Lost World may have something to do with it.

If you were looking for a lost world, the Blyde River Canyon would be a perfect fit. The 35-mile long, 30 000 hectare, Blyde River Canyon Nature Reserve is the largest green canyon in the world, the 2nd largest canyon in Africa and the 3rd largest on earth. It has some of the deepest precipitous cliffs of any canyon on the planet. Sheer cliffs plunge over 3000 feet to the valley below. From this nearly unbroken rampart of cliffs it feels as if one can see forever. It’s not surprising then that one of the most famous views is called God’s Window. It’s possible to see over the Kruger National Park towards the Lebombo Mountains on the border with Mozambique. On a clear day, you can see as far as the Indian Ocean 215 miles away.

The canyon hosts the world’s highest cable gorge swing - freefalling 230 feet at 87 mph in under 3 seconds. Once in the valley, it’s 400 steps back to the top, but for a moment you’d be forgiven for thinking you could hear angels!

There are a number of iconic landforms in the canyon, from the Three Rondavels, the Weeping Face of Nature, Bourke’s Luck Potholes to Pinnacle Rock, not to mention the highest concentration of waterfalls in the regions, one of which is Lisbon Falls.

Its southerly position is what gives the canyon its green fame. Among the lush subtropical foliage, a large diversity of life dwells in and under the canopy, and in its rivers, including numerous fish, antelope species, hippos and crocodiles. Every species of primate in South Africa calls this place home.

Numerous species of birds, from black eagles to rock kestrels, bald ibis to white-faced owls, golden-tailed woodpeckers to malachite sunbirds enjoy the forested landscape and the vast open skies above the canyon floor.

If you have an adventurous spirit, a love of nature or are a keen photographer, Blyde River Canyon will be a feast of joy

This exclusive lodge in the world-renowned Kruger National Park has private suites, each with their own private plunge pool and en-suite bathroom with magnificent views of the wilderness beyond.

The sparkling swimming pool at the main lodge area promises a refreshing dip while providing the opportunity to enjoy the rich and varied wildlife that comes to the Imbali water hole for a cooling drink.

Meals are served in the comfortable dining room where an impressive Jackalberry tree rises through the deck and Tsonga-styled thatched roof. Dinner may be served under the stars while you listen to the enchanting sounds of the surrounding bush coming alive at night.

Safaris are conducted on the private Mluwati Concession with access to the greater Kruger National Park.

We have locally trained therapist who will be able to do an aray of massages in the privicy of your own room. Different treatments are availible such as Theranaka infused Full Body massage, Theranaka infused Back, Neck & Shoulder massage, Theranaka detox deep tissue, Swedish full body Massage, Swedish back, neck and shoulder massage, Sole revival foot treat & Indian head massage. All treatments are designed to enhance relaxation and balance of both body and mind

The swimming pool at Imbali Safari Lodge has a magnificent view over the reserve. Guests can enjoy a cocktail in the pool while watching the sunset and the game wander past on their way to the waterhole.

The guided bush walks allows one to get close up and have an intimate experience of the local flora and fauna. Walks are available on request. The safety of guests is top priority so guided bush walks may be unavailable if the guide deems the conditions to be unsafe for walking.

This exclusive lodge in the world-renowned Kruger National Park has private suites, each with their own private plunge pool and en-suite bathroom with magnificent views of the wilderness beyond.

The sparkling swimming pool at the main lodge area promises a refreshing dip while providing the opportunity to enjoy the rich and varied wildlife that comes to the Imbali water hole for a cooling drink.

Meals are served in the comfortable dining room where an impressive Jackalberry tree rises through the deck and Tsonga-styled thatched roof. Dinner may be served under the stars while you listen to the enchanting sounds of the surrounding bush coming alive at night.

Safaris are conducted on the private Mluwati Concession with access to the greater Kruger National Park.

The Mluwati Concession is a 10 000 hectare private reserve hidden in the wilderness of Mpumalanga’s renowned Kruger National Park. Characterised by a sweeping landscape of bushwillows, acacias, open grassland, the N’waswitsontso River, and the eponymous Mluwati River, the concession is a nature lover’s and photographer’s paradise and provides an important protected habitat for a large lion population. Visitors can enjoy game drives and view an array of wildlife including leopard, wild dog, zebra, cheetah, elephant, buffalo, impala, giraffe, and wildebeest. The area also teems with hundreds of bird species including the southern yellow-billed hornbill, the crested barbet, and Burchell’s glossy starling. Ask a guide to tell you about the intriguing lost treasure of ‘Qugunyan's Fortune’ - an abandoned fortune of gold, diamonds, and coins with a fascinating story attached to it.

We have locally trained therapist who will be able to do an aray of massages in the privicy of your own room. Different treatments are availible such as Theranaka infused Full Body massage, Theranaka infused Back, Neck & Shoulder massage, Theranaka detox deep tissue, Swedish full body Massage, Swedish back, neck and shoulder massage, Sole revival foot treat & Indian head massage. All treatments are designed to enhance relaxation and balance of both body and mind

The swimming pool at Imbali Safari Lodge has a magnificent view over the reserve. Guests can enjoy a cocktail in the pool while watching the sunset and the game wander past on their way to the waterhole.

The guided bush walks allows one to get close up and have an intimate experience of the local flora and fauna. Walks are available on request. The safety of guests is top priority so guided bush walks may be unavailable if the guide deems the conditions to be unsafe for walking.

AVANI Victoria Falls Resort is located in Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, only a 5-minute walk from and with direct access to Victoria Falls. Accommodation is provided in Standard Rooms, Garden Rooms, Family Rooms, Superior Rooms and Suites. All guest rooms are lovingly decorated and equipped with Wi-Fi, private bathrooms, tea- and coffee-making facilities, telephones, personal safes, satellite TV and air conditioning. The hotel caters to every taste with irresistible dining experiences and restaurants including The Threatre of Food, Mukuni Boma and Shungu Pool Terrace.

Cruising slowly down the vast and legendary Zambezi River on a triple deck, 7-foot catamaran at sunset has a certain mystique to it, an ‘Out of Africa’ atmosphere, thanks to the wood panelling and simple, yet elegant comfort on board. It’s a river journey that creates a special moment in time where memories will be made and cherished for ever.

With excellent service from friendly and professional staff, drinks and substantial ‘snacks’, you can enjoy unimpeded views of the river. From the decks of the impressive African Queen, you can marvel at spectacular sightings of crocodiles and hippos within the waters, the elephants and buck along the shores, and the numerous and vibrant birdlife that lives in the Mopane scrub and riparian woodland on the banks. Reeds and papyrus are enjoyed by the smaller birds who use the plants for nesting material. Tall, majestic, and strong, there are trees that look as if they have stepped out of myths and legends – and they have their own legends to tell. They include the iconic Sausage trees, and of course the famous baobabs, the trees the devil ripped out in a rage, and shoved back in the earth, but this time upside down.

Leaving from the Royal Landing, the African Queen takes you on a voyage of discovery – the history of the area which has been inhabited for 3 million years, the amazing geography and it’s shifting and rising has formed this mighty river over time.

Even though this is a sunset cruise, this is also Africa, so don’t forget to wear comfortable clothing, flat shoes, sunglasses, a light jacket, and a hat. For the best viewing experience make sure you bring your binoculars and camera as well. Twilight in Africa, enjoying the time-honoured tradition of drinks at sunset - known throughout southern Africa as sundowners, one of the few remaining colonial traditions, - what better way to unwind and let Africa seep into your soul.

The massive, sometimes slow and sometimes dangerously fast Zambezi River commands the types of vegetation that grows along its banks and even the land beyond its shores. The immensity and power of the river, as well as its beauty and drama is best seen from the air. In 1855, David Livingstone, Scottish missionary and explorer, arguably the first European to see the Falls said, “Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight." To see the Zambezi from the same viewpoint as those beings is an unforgettable experience. It puts not only the river, but also the huge Victoria Falls, into perspective.  

Your helicopter flight starts at the Maramba Aerodrome, and for a time ranging from 12 to 30 mins (your choice) you’ll experience the Zambezi River and the Victoria Falls in a way unachievable from the land. Sweeping through the Bakota gorges the power of the river can be seen through the deep, impressive, basalt gorges carved by the water. Hovering over the Victoria Falls with the spray, which can be seen 40kms away, billowing around you and you will experience for yourself why the Falls are one of the New Seven Wonders of the World. Soaring high and sweeping up-river you can see clearly how the water has formed the landscape through which it has carved its way towards the Indian Ocean. From the air, the sunlight glittering on the mighty river looks like thousands of diamonds have been scattered across its surface. Views across the beautiful national park open out in a way that never happens on a land-based game drive.

The experience is about an hour and a half in total, including transfers from the resort to the helipad and back, as well as the flight itself.

Deep in the heart of Africa, between Zambia and Zimbabwe is one of the most dramatic natural phenomena - Mosi-oa-Tunya - The Smoke that Thunders, Seongo or Chongwe - The Place of the Rainbow, Victoria Falls. This is the greatest falling curtain of water on Earth, one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. The mighty Zambezi River has carved a unique pattern of gorges through the basalt rock and sandstone on its way to the Indian Ocean. Collectively, the six gorges which cover 150kms are known as the Bakota Gorge, and even now the Falls are cutting a new one at the Devil’s Cataract.

At its current location the Falls are 1708m wide and 125m high. It’s amazing to think that at one time they were 3.3kms wide and fell over 140m. The power of the river below results in Class 5 Rapids and some of the best white water rafting in the world. During the low-water season, a footpath will take you down to the Boiling Pot where the Falls form a massive whirlpool, and from where the Zambian white-water adventures begin. Livingstone Island and Devil’s Pool, a pool right on the edge of the Falls, can only be reached from the Zambian Side. Looking up from the Boiling Pot gives you a completely different perspective of the Falls.

The best way to experience the power and beauty of the Falls, the double rainbows, and on occasion the moonbows, awe-inspiring views, and thunderous rumble is on a guided walk along the paved paths and Knife-Edge Bridge, through the rain forest. During the flood season, the foot of the falls and its face are hidden by the sheer volume of water. The paths along the cliff are shrouded in mist. The spray from the Falls can be seen over 40kms away. It’s because of this spray that the rain forest exists. Along the edge of the edges of the Falls is a small, but highly significant ecosystem.

In 1855, David Livingstone, Scottish missionary and explorer, said, “Scenes so lovely must have been gazed upon by angels in their flight." Make sure they’re on your bucket list.

Including all transfers and time spent at the local craft market afterwards, the tour takes an hour and a half. But we guarantee you’ll want to spend longer than that.

On the banks of the Zambezi River, The Royal Livingstone Hotel by Anantara is named after the legendary explorer who named Zambia’s iconic waterfall in honour of his queen. Paying tribute to this glorious era, our hotel evokes Victorian elegance and colonial traditions in impeccable style, and offers unforgettable adventures.

Far in the northeast of Botswana, lying alongside the mighty Chobe River is the land of elephants. More than 50 000 pachyderms make up a migratory population which come from the Caprivi Strip in Namibia and the Zambezi floodplains of Zambia and Zimbabwe. Wars within the region have sometimes halted these migrations, but with peace comes a new migration. Led by the matriarchs with their deeply buried memories of water, quiet whiffles, soft footfalls and occasional trumpets, these herds, calling to other herds cross vast distances. With low earth-vibrating rumbles, they make their way through sandy terrain, lush floodplains, dense forests of cathedral mopane trees, and broadleaf woodlands that seem to stretch forever. Eventually the elephants, as well as massive herds of Cape Buffalo, reach the Chobe River. Along its banks, in the shade of the trees large prides of lions watch them as they slack their thirst, looking for their next meal.

The first sight of the dazzling, deep blue Chobe River protecting the 10 700 km2 of the northern Kalahari Desert is something, just like the elephants, you will never forget. But it’s not only elephants and buffalo, nor is it not only the river that make up the Chobe National Park, the third largest in Botswana. There are four distinct ecosystems with the Chobe National Park. Each provide sanctuary to different species of wildlife. And the wildlife is abundant. The Savuti Channel in the west, the predator-rich Linyanti Marshes in the northwest, the Arid Hinterland, and the fertile plains and thick forests of Serondela in the extreme northeast. Baboon, gentle giraffe, hyena, impala, lechwe, majestic kudu, puku, sable, solitary leopard, lion, warthog, waterbuck, the rare painted wild dog, blue wildebeest, and zebra are among the many creatures that call Chobe home. In fact, Chobe has one of the largest concentrations of game in Africa.

The original inhabitants of this paradise were the San bushmen. British missionary and explorer, David Livingstone, made his way through here to Mosi-oa-Tunya, now mostly known as Victoria Falls. Thankfully, the area became a protected game reserve in 1961, and in 1968, a national park, which has kept out the big-game hunters. Chobe is a true wilderness. An African treasure. Careful moderation of the number of visitors to the park keeps the feeling of remoteness and exclusivity.

The river is also home to its famed riverboat safaris. These are the best way to enjoy the river and watch the hippos, crocodiles and leguvaans which can grow up to 1,5M in length. In fact, the riverboats can be the best way to watch all the game, including the birds. Over 450 species of bird live here, including Fish eagles with their haunting cry, storks, wire-tailed swallows and bea-eaters. Some of the most beautiful are the white-backed night herons.

If you prefer to be on land, there are stunning safari lodges, camps, lodges and ‘under-canvas’ sites. The land safaris, with experienced and knowledgeable guides or self-guided, are as exciting and encounter rich as any on the water in Chobe.

As Chobe National Park is one of the best national parks in Africa, its unparalleled beauty provides a lifetime of unforgettable memories.

Bushtracks Africa Chobe River Sunset Cruise will allow guests to explore the inner reaches of the lower Chobe River, just before it flows in to join the mighty Zambezi River. Chobe National Park is one of Southern Africa’s most wild parks. Located in the North-East of Botswana, along the Chobe River, bordering Namibia’s Caprivi Strip. It’s an area where the countries of Botswana, Zimbabwe, Zambia, and Namibia meet. With the world’s largest elephant population and a reputation for big cat sightings, a Chobe River Sunset Cruise is an absolute must on any itinerary where game viewing is high on the agenda.

Located in the Gourmet Capital of South Africa, Le Franschhoek Hotel and Spa has become one of the ultimate getaways in its class. Capturing the essence of 4-star luxury, the impeccably appointed hotel offers unparalleled views of the mountains and is the perfect setting for a taste of the legendary Cape Wine Routes.

Restaurant - La Pavillion: Furnished in natural tones, with clean lines and white table cloths, and accented with beautiful indigenous flowers, the room is ethereal in the morning sun. Ease into the day with the delicious breakfast buffet and luscious views of the iconic Franschhoek scenery. La Pavillion is certainly a Le Franschhoek gem.

Restaurant - Sauvage: This elegantly portrayed fine dining eatery offers diners an opportunity to indulge in a scrumptious a’ la Carte menu, complimented by warm service and picturesque placement.

This luxury Hotel features 79 en-suite, elegantly finished rooms and suites, two lavish villas, eight double and eight single bedroom villas. Each boasts breath-taking views over either the towering Franschhoek Mountains or manicured gardens. Room facilities include complimentary amenities, an espresso machine with a supply of fragrant coffee pods, Air-conditioning, under floor heating, direct dial telephones, remote controlled television with selected DSTV channels, hairdryers, electronic safes and Wi-Fi provided for your convenience and enjoyment.

Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa retains its elusive charm with a contemporary Cape Dutch feel. Features include Camelot Spa and an ideal destination for team building, corporate functions or even a fairy tale wedding, boasting 5 world class conference venues, seating from 20 to 120 delegates.

The Camelot Spa Le Franschhoek, situated at the lavish Le Franschoek Hotel, boasts a glorious location set beneath the towering amphitheatre of the Franschhoek mountains. Here, hotel guests and visitors alike can look forward to complete health and beauty experience with treatments ranging from relaxing massages to rejuvenating facials.

The Franschhoek Wine Tram hop-on hop-off tour is one of the best ways to discover the true essence of the Franschhoek Valleys' picturesque vineyards, breath-taking scenery, warm hospitality, world-class cuisine, fine wines, and a 300-year history. The tour takes passengers right into the heart of the Franschhoek Valley, with a narration focusing on the history of Franschhoek and wine cultivation in the valley, complimentary wine tastings and unparalleled views of the valley and vineyards. Passengers aboard the hop-on hop-off tour will experience a unique and leisurely way to see the Franschhoek Valley as they journey through rolling vineyards in an open-sided tram and open-air tram-bus, stopping in at some of South Africa's oldest and most distinguished wine estates. During each stop, passengers can experience various activities, be it wine tasting, a cellar tour, lunch or simply a stroll through the vineyards.

Rickety Bridge Wine Estate is situated just 5 minutes from the centre of the quaint town of Franschhoek and lies on the slopes of the Franschhoek Mountains overlooking the majestic Wemmershoek Mountain range.

This position gives the estate a range of aspects and soil types for growing different varieties of grapes. The lower flatland of the estate is covered by sandy soils being close the Franschhoek River which crosses in front of the estate's lower border. The hillside provides the estate with decomposed granite soils which are ideal for growing high quality red grapes required for producing premium red wine.

Rickety Bridge is an historic Franschhoek wine estate, founded in 1797 by the widow Paulina de Villiers, and set in lush vineyards shadowed by the majestic Dassenberg and Wemmershoek Mountains.

Cross the ‘rickety bridge’ into a haven in the vines and revel in this multi-faceted offering of fine wine, delectable cuisine and luxury accommodation.

Today Rickety Bridge is home to a modern boutique winery producing world class wines, a bistro style restaurant, romantic wedding and function venue and a luxurious 5 star guest house set in the original Cape Dutch Manor House.

The Franschhoek Cellar, a beautiful asset to the Stellenbosch wine route, combines the charms of leisurely country life with the elegance of a world class venue. Enjoy wine tastings paired with Belgian chocolate or handmade cheese. Dine on alfresco style lunches in their fabulous garden, or sip on an artisanal beer in their bistro and beer garden. The Franschhoek Cellar has a special selection of unique event venues within the space to ensure they host your most memorable occasion.

Franschhoek Cellar is home to an exquisite range of award-winning Methode Cap Classique, white and red wines. Our winemaker and chef have joined forces to create dazzling food and wine, experiences showcasing our wines alongside Franschhoek's famous cheeses and chocolates.

A picnic lunch in the Boschendal Rhone Rose garden under the dappled sunshine of the oak trees surrounded by Cape-Dutch architecture of the Rhone Homestead, the Cellar Door, exhibition vineyards, and the Winery is a wonderful way to take time out, relax and enjoy a delicious, hearty yet sophisticated rustic lunch within view of the picturesque Simonsberg mountain range. The tranquil location, lazing on the grass or at the carefully laid-out tables, sipping world-class Methodé Cap Calssique, Blush, White and Red wines, or local artisan brews, ciders, G&Ts, and freshly squeezed juices, certainly improves ones appetite.

The picnic baskets are filled with delectable food created from the wine estates natural farm. Tear into freshly baked ciabattas and smother each section with Boschendal Butchery charcuterie, homemade preserves, or liver paté, onion marmalade, lemon atchar, camembert or parmesan cheeses. Dig into green salads from the Werf Food Garden, roast free-range chicken, aubergine and mushroom salad, mustard and spring onion salad with miso dressing or almond and garlic emulsion – your taste buds will thank you. Finish off with one of the celebrated desserts like the white chocolate cheesecake, vegan chocolate mousse. These are just a sample of the foody delights that await you at the Boschendal Rhone Rose garden picnic feast.

It’s important to note that the food, while having the occasional vegan dish as part of the options, is not halaal, kosher or allergy friendly. All of the estate kitchens use ingredients that may contain milk, eggs, soy, peanuts, tree nuts, wheat, fish, and shellfish etc. As the menus are created based on the seasonal food availability of fresh farm produce every visit to the Boschendal Rhone Rose garden picnic experience will be different. But they will always be delightful and delicious.

Your qualified guide will walk with you through the more than 300-year-old streets of Stellenbosch and while admiring the charm and harmony of the Cape Dutch Architecture, your guide will tell you tales about the interesting history of Stellenbosch. The tour will not only give you the opportunity to admire some of the best art and art galleries in South Africa, but you will also meet some of the artist at their studios and admire their art.

Grande Provence Wine Estate wears her 325-year history with dignity. Nestled in the beautiful Franschhoek Valley in South Africa’s Western Cape, her lush vines spread across 47 acres. Rolling vistas frame the valley floor and heighten the drama of the rugged mountains beyond. Barely a one-hour drive from Cape Town, this is heartland South African Wine Country at its very finest.

GRANDE PROVENCE IS OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK:

Deli service: Mon - Sun: 09:00 - 16:00
Wine Tastings: 10:00 - 16:30
Restaurant Lunch service: Sundays only: 12:00 – 16:00 (last seating 15:00 pm)
Restaurant Dinner service: Saturdays: 18:00 – 22:00 pm (last seating 19:30 pm)

Literally meaning ‘over the mountain’ in Dutch, the Overberg region extends from the Hottentots Holland Mountains, east of Cape Town, to the start of the Garden Route near the historic town of George. It serves as the perfect base to explore the spectacularly scenic landscapes which are characterised by fertile farmlands, a series of mountain ranges, tremendous plant diversity including the uniquely South African fynbos and a rocky coastline that makes it a haven for outdoor adventures. Visitors can enjoy a wide selection of activities such as: 4x4 trails, kayaking, swimming, horse riding, sunset cruises, wine tasting, and whale watching. Popular attractions include: Agulhas National Park on Africa’s southernmost tip; the rich birdlife at Bontebok National Park and the seaside town of Hermanus, a whale watching mecca.

Cape Agulhas Lighthouse, the 3rd lighthouse to be built on the South African coast was commissioned on 1 March 1849. The lighthouse has a unique design that is based on the Pharos of Alexandria, one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World. The original structure was declared unsafe in 1966 and was replaced with a lattice structure in 1968. The community was largely responsible for the restoration of the original structure and the lighthouse was inaugurated again on 25 March 1988 after having being out of service for 20 years.

Cape Agulhas is regarded as the place where the warm Indian Ocean meets the cold Atlantic Ocean, and Cape Agulhas is the southernmost tip of Africa. Its stormy seas and rocky coastline have claimed more than 140 ships over the years, perhaps most famous of which is the sinking of the HMS Birkenhead, where the concept of “women and children first” has since become known as the “The Birkenhead Drill”.

Regarded as the place where the warm Indian Ocean meets the cold Atlantic Ocean, Cape Agulhas is situated at the southernmost tip of Africa. Its stormy seas and rocky coastline have claimed more than 140 ships over the years, perhaps most famous of which is the sinking of the HMS Birkenhead, where the concept of 'women and children first' has since become known as the 'The Birkenhead Drill'. Enjoy whale watching boat tours, explore a range of art galleries and wine farms nearby, and photograph yourself at the southernmost tip of Africa. Climb to the top of the second oldest lighthouse in South Africa for some stunning views.

The tragic history of the Agulhas coastline is dramatically evoked at the Shipwreck Museum, situated in the south-western Cape town of Bredasdorp, 30 km from the coast.

The southernmost coastline of Africa is also one of its most dangerous parts - with an estimated 250 vessels and 2 500 people lost in its waters down through the centuries. No wonder, then, that generations of sailors have referred to this area as the 'ships' graveyard'.

The nearest town to this treacherous stretch of coast is Bredasdorp. Both Bredasdorp and the surrounding Strandveld owe much of their character and history to the ships and wreckage that fate so often washed up on their doorstep.

The museum is housed in a historical building in the centre of town. A series of scale models demonstrates the death throes of a ship until its final disintegration, when it is buried by sand. The bulk of the exhibits are the artefacts and remains from four of the area's biggest wrecks, notably the Arniston, the Birkenhead, the Queen of the Thames and the Oriental Pioneer.

Sir Lowry’s Pass was constructed in 1828 in order that ox wagons could cross the mountains originally used by the Bushmen. It is named after a former British governor of the Cape, Sir Lowry Cole. On a clear day, the top of the pass affords a spectacular view across the Cape Flats and False Bay to Table Mountain and Cape Point. This view at night is spectacular as Cape Town’s lights join the stars and she shines in all her glory.

The name Bredasdorp Square was adopted in 2004 with the jingle Eat Sleep Shop to acknowledge its prominent central location in the old heart of Bredasdorp with its graceful Victorian buildings dating from the 1890’s overlooking the beautiful formal landscaped town square with the obelisk fountain, the ”Bredasdorp Square” is proudly an icon.

Meals can be enjoyed inside at the fireplace with the glistening chandeliers, in the courtyard with the gold fish pond and wisteria or on the stoep, overlooking the square garden, with more than a 100 Iceberg Rose bushes. Guests can wonder around through the gift and curio store and the art gallery featuring 13 artists depicting scenes which reflect the best of the southern tip of Africa.

The lively complex is a favorite with locals and tourists where they Eat, Sleep & Shop. Guests can explore the area on day trips to De Hoop, Agulhas, Arniston, Napier and Elim.

For nearly 400 years, Robben Island, had a varied history, but 6.9 kilometres out from Cape Town it began and ended as a political prison. Frequent poor weather, fog, strong currents and the high waves of the Atlantic Ocean, as well as the flatness of the island made it a shipping hazard, sinking vessels in shallow waters around its shores. The dangerous location made it perfect for the various uses to which it has been put since the 17th Century. It was a leper colony, a whaling station, an animal quarantine station, and in World War II an armed military base for Cape Town’s defence.

Remains of this turbulent past include the 17th century quarries, the Moturu Kramat, the burial place of the Prince of Madura, one of Cape Town's first imams, the remains of the 19th century ‘village’ administrative buildings including a chapel and parsonage, a small lighthouse, derelict World War II military structures, and the maximum security prison of the Apartheid era.

There is no record of anyone swimming to freedom, yet despite the Great White sharks patrolling the icy waters it is possible. Today, Robben Island is a starting point for many long-distance event swimmers.

The most famous modern-day political prisoner was activist Nelson Mandela, imprisoned there for 18 of the 27 years he was imprisoned during apartheid. He was later awarded the Nobel Prize for Peace and was elected in 1994 as the first democratic President of South Africa. He served one term as President.

The maximum-security prison closed in 1991 and the medium security prison five years later.

Now a living museum, a South African National Heritage Site, it is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. One of the most poignant memorials on the island is the Rock Pile. It was started by Nelson Mandela and added to—one rock at a time—by former prisoners returning to the island to visit.

Every year thousands of tourists visit the island. Many of the guides are former prisoners. Robben Island is also one of South Africa’s most important breeding localities for 8 500 breeding pairs of African Penguins, the world’s second largest colony of this vulnerable species.

A trip up Table Mountain is quite rightly one of the first things a tourist wants to do when arriving in Cape Town.

Table Mountain is the most iconic landmark of South Africa, the only flat-topped mountain in the world and one of the NEW7WONDERS of Nature. Starting with spectacular 360-degree views from the rotating cable car, you then marvel at the abundant views 1000m above the city below, and the awesome display of unique “fynbos” vegetation with a variety of over 2,200 species. The most common mammal found on the mountain, the “dassie” (pronounced “dussy”) or rock hyrax, is about 50 cm long, like a marmot but surprisingly more closely related to the elephant and manatee.

What better way to discover a new city, especially one with as much history, and as many delights as Cape town, than with a Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour. Cape Town is considered one of the world’s most beautiful cities. Purchase either a 1or 2-day ticket and learn Cape Town’s history as the bus wends its way through the 368-year-old city.

As with any bus, if you see something you want to investigate further, simply jump off, explore to your heart’s content, then catch the next Hop On Hop Off bus that comes along, and pick up your tour right where you left off. Each tour narration is available in Spanish, Turkish, Zulu, Chinese, Dutch, English, Afrikaans, French, German, Italian, Japanese, Arabic, Portuguese, and Russian. It’s the most cost-effective, and most informative, way to explore Cape Town.

The Hop On Hop Off Bus Tour has 4 different tours for you to choose from: the Red, Yellow, Blue or Purple Routes. The 2-day ticket also includes 2 walking tours, a harbour cruise, and a sunset bus tour during the summer season.

Starting at the V&A Waterfront, the Two Oceans Aquarium, or any of the clearly branded bus stops along the tour routes, you can, depending on the tour you take, discover landmarks such as Table Mountain, Camps Bay, Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, the Clock Tower, Green Point Lighthouse, St George’s Cathedral, the South African Museum and Planetarium, the Mount Nelson Hotel, the South African Jewish Museum and Holocaust Centre, the District 6 Museum, the Castle of Good Hope, the Company Gardens, and Constantia Valley.

You’ll be relieved to know that the South African Post Office was responsible for the name of the town Hermanuspietersfontein being changed to Hermanus. Much more pronounceable and fits better on a signpost. Which is a good thing as this ‘village’, as the locals call it, is one of the most famous places in the world to watch whales from land.

Although the Southern Right whale is the most prolific species, it’s not the only one that visits these shores. Once hunted, the whales are now protected ensuring the survival of the species. Perhaps that, as well as the warm-summer Mediterranean climate, is why they return year after year. A Kalfiefees, or Calf Festival, is held, usually in August, to welcome the first whales. At the end of September, the annual Hermanus Whale Festival celebrates the calving and mating season. The whales can be seen from the cliffs all along the coast from June to early-December. The cliff path is wheelchair friendly. The Old Harbour Museum comprising the charming fisherman’s village, the old harbour, and the Whale Museum tells the story of whales, whaling and Hermanus.

Walker Bay where Hermanus lies is stunningly beautiful. Long pristine sandy beaches, the protective arms of the Cape Fold Mountains that surround it, and one of the highest plant diversity levels in the world make this quaint town a memorable destination. A hike through the nearby Fernkloof Nature Reserve, and sampling prestigious wines on the famed Hermanus Wine Route add to the charm of the town.

Among the excellent restaurants and cafes, the town’s rather eccentric nature is also evident - the historic railway station, which has no railway line. Then, there’s the fact that Hermanus has the World’s only Whale Crier. Dressed in eye-catching attire, his job is to patrol the cliff paths during the whale season, alerting the population to the presence of whales by blowing on a kelp horn. Today, Eric Davalala, is the town’s Whale Crier. From keeping an eye on the whales to keeping one on variations of the earth's magnetic field - the National Research Foundation facility in Hermanus forms part of the worldwide network monitoring the earth's magnetic field.

Bientang's Cave Seafood Restaurant & Destination is the most unique restaurant setting in the world. This International award-winning restaurant is situated on the shores of Walker Bay and is carved into the depths of a century old cave, in the heart of the best land-based whale watching area in the world.

The cave was named after Bientang, the last known Khoi Strandloper to have lived in the cave. A Strandloper is a member of a Khoisan people who lived on the southern shores of Southern Africa from prehistoric times until the 19th century. ‘Strandloper’ can also be translated as ‘beachcomber’. Bientang lived here at the turn of the 19th Century but mysteriously disappeared. Her cave, the ever-present stream which is still part of the restaurant, the fruit and vegetables she grew – in the same place the restaurant grows its produce and the rich supply of seafood meant that Bientang could be totally self-sufficient. A family of spotted genet cats followed her everywhere and, by all accounts, Bientang had a special connection with the wildlife. Perhaps that’s why the whales return every year to this exact spot at Walker’s Bay.

The restaurant’s delicious menu includes the freshest and tastiest seafood as well as non-seafood delights including meat, poultry, and vegetarian dishes. If you let them know in advance, they will also be able to accommodate food allergies and special dietary requirements.

The whales, seabirds and dassies, not to mention the excellent food, the stunning location and the outstanding wine list which Diners Club awarded their Diamond Award, is why both local and international diners return to feast and whale watch time and time again! Did we mention that Bientang’s Cave, Walker’s Bay, Hermanus is one of the premier whale-watching spots in the world?

The Harold Porter National Botanical Garden is in the heart of the Cape's fynbos region and is home to a spectacular variety of Proteas, Ericas, conebushes, and cape reeds or Restios. There are over 700 species of indigenous South African plants and 88 species of birds. Garden walks, hike, a restaurant, curio shop and nursery complete its offerings.

This is a great place to see these comical little chaps in their tuxedos. The penguin colony at Stony Point started in 1982 and is one of only three mainland colonies. Due to human and predator disturbances the Stony Point area was fenced off in 1987 and soon cormorants started to breed here.

Romonza Boat Based Whale Watching operates from July to November each year in Mossel Bay. The Romonza is a 36-passenger vessel and was awarded one of only twenty boat based whale watching permits in South Africa presented by MCM. The tour includes a qualified whale guide on each trip and a tour around Seal Island, which boasts a colony of over 4000 seals. A cash bar is available on board.

Originally a small fishing village, Hout Bay (Wood Bay) or the Republic of Hout Bay as it’s affectionately called by the locals, has a name which dates back to 1653. The town was properly established in 1867 and is nestled in a once-deeply wooded valley on the Atlantic Seaboard between Llandudno and Noordhoek. The ancient, once-huge forests are still in evidence, but only in small, highly protected pockets. At the northern end of Hout Bay Valley, the Orangekloof Forest is the most intact and oldest indigenous mountain forest on Table Mountain.

Hout Bay is a popular day-trip destination for tourists thanks to its old-world charm, colourful multicultural ambience, stunning views, its beach and busy fishing harbour where tuna, crayfish and snoek are the regular catch of the day all make for a delightful experience. The bustling port area has seafood restaurants, craft stores and boating activities as well as fresh fish for sale.

Humans aren’t the only ones interested in the catch of the day. As many as 6 thousand Cape Fur seals reside on Duiker Island, a 40-minute boat cruise from Hout Bay Harbour. This child-friendly cruise is the perfect opportunity to see these exuberant and delightful creatures up close and in their natural habitat. To get there you travel past some of the most rugged scenery on the Western Cape including the bay, the Sentinel and Chapman’s Peak.

Duiker Island is a ‘pick-up’ spot for the Cape Fur Seals. The males congregate here while they wait to ‘come of age’ and breed with the females. The water around the island is far too rough and dangerous for pups forcing the females go elsewhere to give birth. The seals are a popular snack for Great White sharks, and you may be lucky enough to see one or two, as well as whales and dolphins while on your cruise.

Chapman’s Peak Drive, or as it is known locally, Chappies, is a nail-biting 9 kilometres long, stretching from Noordhoek to Hout Bay. Vehicles swoop around 114 bends bounded on one side by huge vistas of the cold Atlantic Ocean, and on the other by the warm, russet-coloured granite and sandstone mountain, whose almost sheer cliff face soars 593m out of the sea. The views are spectacular and locals as well as tourists stop at the viewpoints to gaze over towards Hout Bay, the Sentinel Peak and the kilometres of pristine sand at Noordhoek Beach. Building Chapman’s Peak Drive was an extraordinary feat. It was carved out of the west-facing cliffs by convict labour between 1915 and 1922. Engineers said it couldn’t be done as the mountain was plagued by rockslides and bad weather. But the Cape Administrator, Sir Nicolas Frederick de Waal, believed otherwise. At first, it seemed the engineers were right. During its first 80 years, rockfalls and weather proved to be an enormous hazard. In 2009, the road was closed. The rockfall situation had to be solved. Engineers employed every new technology imaginable to tame the cliffs above. And they’ve succeeded. Their solutions as seemingly miraculous as the original construction. This spectacular drive forms the backdrop to two of the largest mass participation races in South Africa, the Cape Argus Cycle Race, and the Two Oceans’ Marathon. The 109 km long cycle race is the first event outside Europe to be included in the Union Cycliste Internationale's Golden Bike Series. it’s the world's largest individually timed cycle race with over 35 000 cyclists taking part. The Two Oceans is the world's most beautiful marathon. This56km ultramarathon and a 21km half-marathon is held annually on the Easter weekend.

There’s no snow, no ice, no polar bears… but there are penguins at Boulders Beach. Boulders Beach near Simon’s Town lies with the Table Mountain National Park. It consists of 1 penguin viewing area and 3 boardwalks lining the cove of 3 pristine, soft, white beaches which are sheltered by immense boulders from currents, wind and large waves. It’s the perfect place for the penguins to call home. The wheelchair-firendly boardwalks were built to allow visitors access across the dense vegetation to view these wonderful birds, while keeping the birds safe from poking fingers and the humans safe from razor sharp beaks. If the birds feel threatened they are likely to bite fingers or noses.

The penguins are known as the African Penguin, Cape Penguin, South African Penguin, Black-footed Penguin, or the Jackass Penguin because of their loud, donkey-like bray. They are the only penguin that breeds in Africa, the only one found on the south-west coast of Africa and live in only 24 colonies.

These delightful creatures are highly endangered and great care and respect must be shown towards them and their habitat at all times. In 1910, they numbered approximately one and a half million. By 1982, there were only 2 breeding pairs left. Huge conservation efforts were undertaken, and the Boulders Beach population rose to 3 900 birds in 2005. Since then there has been a decrease. The 2011 figures sit at around 2100 birds at Boulders Penguin Colony. To try and ensure their safety, the Table Mountain National Park services have banned alcohol and smoking in the area, as well as all vessels including canoes and kayaks. Under no circumstances may marine life or vegetation be removed.

The view from this consistently highly rated restaurant is unrivalled anywhere in the world. Where else could you watch the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean clash while enjoying Patagonia Calamari, Smoked Lamb Shank or Ostrich Carpaccio?

Set into the cliffs high above the south-western most tip of the Cape Peninsular in the Good Hope Section of the Table Mountain National Park, the restaurant’s unique design and spectacular view over False Bay gives the impression that guests are relaxing in on the deck of a luxury ocean liner! The restaurant’s innovative design means that the 300 guests to which the restaurant can comfortably cater, each have an unimpeded view of the vast oceans below them.

While fresh seafood is their specialty, especially their world famous Two Oceans Restaurant Seafood Platter, vegetarians, meat & salad lovers, and children will all be delighted with the varied and meticulously prepared meals which they can enjoy with some of the Western Cape’s most magnificent wines. Two Oceans Restaurant is one of the most stylish, light, airy, sophisticated and yet relaxed restaurants in the Cape. After a sumptuous breakfast or lunch, a delicious pudding such as a toasted fig marshmallow, dark chocolate, walnut honey cookie with goats cheese ice cream, and a browse in the curio shop, the Flying Dutchman funicular can whisk guests up to the lighthouse. Or perhaps if they prefer, guests can wander down to explore one of the many beautiful and protected beaches in the reserve.

Either way, the Two Oceans Restaurant will be remembered as one of the highlights of any Cape Town experience.

The Cape of Good Hope was once called the Cape of Storms because of the often-terrifying weather and violent oceans which have wrecked ships on its coast since sailors first began to explore beyond the horizon. The most enduring legend is the phantom ship known as The Flying Dutchman. According to the tale, a sea captain found himself struggling to round the Cape of Good Hope during a ferocious storm. He swore that, even if he had to sail until Judgment Day, he would succeed. The Devil heard and the Flying Dutchman was condemned to stay at sea forever. Apparent sightings claim it glows with a ghostly light, spelling doom for anyone that sees the Dutchman. Rounding the Cape meant the possibility of finding a sea route to India and the East, so John II of Portugal renamed it the more optimistic Cape of Good Hope. The Cape has seen a lot of history. The Khoikhoi had lived in this area for about fifteen hundred years before the first European, Bartolomeu Dias, arrived in 1488. The Portuguese government erected two navigational beacons to commemorate the achievement. When lined up, the crosses point to Whittle Rock, a large, permanently submerged shipping hazard in False Bay. The Cape became such a proficient supply station for ships, especially those of the Dutch East India Company on their voyages east, that Cape Town became known as the Tavern of the Seas. In 1687, a community of Huguenots, fleeing religious persecution in France arrived and over the next 150 years the Cape colony gradually grew stretching hundreds of kilometres to the north and north-east. In 1795, it was occupied by Napoleon’s troops and then the British. Today, Cape Town, South Africa’s Mother City, is also the country’s most cosmopolitan, thanks to its varied roots and layers of cultural influences. It’s also home to the the first world-class, custom-built, film studios in Africa rivalling both British and American film studios thanks to its stunning location, and weather.

The Cape of Good Hope is an integral part of the Cape Floristic Kingdom, the smallest but richest of the world's six floral kingdoms. This comprises a treasure trove of 1100 species of indigenous plants, a number are endemic, including the fynbos and the iconic proteas. The wildlife of the Cape of Good Hope is as much a treasure trove as the flora.

An hour's drive from Cape Town is the Cape Point Nature Reserve, one of the most scenically beautiful parks in South Africa. Mountains, oceans, history, wildlife on land and in the water, legends and views that are as vast as the horizon. Framing this wild and dangerous coast are the two peaks - Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. Cape Point is the south-western most point of the continent and Cape Agulhas is the southernmost tip and it’s Cape Agulhas where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. Wild and unpredictable oceans through which sailors struggled for centuries before finally being able to navigate their way around the tip of Africa. Even on a good day, the icy wind blowing in from the Antarctic, is a good indication of why it was such a perilous journey. The Flying Dutchman funicular will carry you up to the old lighthouse standing among the thick fynbos, the panoramic views, and, in the springtime – August, September and October, possibly even the sight whales in the ocean below. The impressive old lighthouse was built in 1859, but instead of guiding ships to safety, it was often the cause of mishaps. Ironically, it sits too high above the ocean, so ships approaching from the east saw the light too clearly and approached too closely ending up on the rocks. The Cape Point Shipwreck Trail is the short – 3kms - easily accessible Oliantsbos trail leading down to the beach where you can see the remains of the SS Thomas T. Tucker. Once a WWII transport vessel it’s now a popular photography subject and home to the local birdlife.

Nearby are the crosses erected by the Portuguese King John II to Vasco da Gama and Bartolomeu Dias in recognition of their expeditions to and around the then named Cape of Storms. 

There are a number of secluded beaches in the reserve. Buffels Bay and Bordjiesdrif are relatively sheltered beaches. Their tidal pools are great for a post-hike dip. Diaz Beach is without a doubt one of Cape Town’s most beautiful but is a steep climb down and you can’t swim when you get there. Edged by wild, natural fynbos, with at least three shipwrecks, Olifantsbos Beach is also a marine protected area and has a nearby shallow lagoon, a favourite haunt of coastal birdlife.

Being a nature reserve Cape Point is home to a large variety of animals and bird life. Over 270 species of birds live here as well as antelope, Cape foxes, genets, polecats, mole rats, porcupines, mongooses, tortoises, and snakes.

The Cape Point is notorious for its strong icy winds even if the sun is shining. For the best experience you may want to consider a professional guide.

There is no better way to experience a culture than to experience how people live their day to day lives. Cape Town is a melting pot and consequently there are many cultures on offer with the two predominant ones being the BoKaap and the townships of the Cape Flats. The Bo-Kaap, previously known as the “Malay Quarter” is the remnants of Cape Town first freed Malay Slave community and the Townships are where the majority of Cape Town’s black population live. During the tour you will interact with locals, visit a Shebeen, as the once illegal pubs are known, get a chance to see some local arts and crafts and visit a Sangoma (traditional healer).

Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, lying on the slopes of the Table Mountain National Park, is one of the great botanic gardens of the world. They are part of the Cape Floristic Region Protected Area, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Covering 528 hectares, of which 36 are cultivated and the rest supporting natural forest and fynbos along with their wildlife inhabitants, the Kirstenbosch estate is unparallelled in terms of the grandeur of its setting. Walks and trails wind their way through this natural beauty, allowing you to explore to your heart’s content.

In the 17th and 18th centuries thousands of trees were felled for timber. Since the gardens were established in 1913, the natural forests have been protected, alien species eradicated, and the original forest left to recover naturally. Fynbos, including proteas, ericas and restios, is unique to the Table Mountain area and Kirstenbosch supports these 3 different varieties.

There is an abundance not only of plant life but also birds, insects and butterflies, including the resident Spotted Eagle Owl and the spectacular butterfly, the Table Mountain Beauty.

Most of the animals that live and breed in the Gardens are mostly active at dusk so are seldom seen.

The magnificent landscape of Kirstenbosch is perfect for both outdoor and indoor art exhibitions, sculptures, and dinosaurs! Five life-sized, anatomically correct dinosaurs and a pterosaur, sculptured in tin, hover among the cycads in the Cycad Amphitheatre. The picnic-style summer concerts are a delightful way to spend an evening surrounded by the impressive Cape Fold Mountain range, enjoying good food, wine and excellent music.

We can guarantee that you’ve never had a foodie experience like the one you’ll enjoy at GOLD Restaurant in Cape Town. It’s more than just a restaurant. It’s an immersive experience with a 14-dish taste-safari bringing you flavours and ingredients from across the African continent. Combine that with learning where the meals originate, how they’re cooked and what they’re spiced with and you have a taste experience like no other.

The entertainment at GOLD is as original and memorable as the food. The ancient and somewhat mystical art form of Mali puppetry, as well as storytelling through praise singing, dancing to the utterly authentic marimbas and the pre-dinner, interactive djembe drumming, not to mention the delicate and sophisticated Xhosa face-painting, Zulu warriors and calabash serenades brings diners face-to-face with the wild, colourful and beating heart of Africa.

The GOLD team come from all over Africa. Their traditions and creative ideas are part of their traditional costumes. They even hand-stitch their ideas and personalities into the table linens intricate patterns.

From Uganda to Burundi, Tanganyika and Zanzibar, the history of spices and how they impacted not just food but world politics, are an integral part of the Spice Experience at GOLD. Spices were once used as currency and now you can taste, smell and delight in an aromatic new world thanks to the African spice pastes and well-known African spice mixes to which the team at GOLD will introduce you. This private, one-on-one curated experience will take you on a unique story-telling and aromatic adventure.

Whether you come for dinner or the Spice Experience, GOLD Restaurant will transport you right into the beating heart of the vibrant African continent through their one-of-a-kind world.

45 MINUTES FROM CAPE TOWN: SIMON’S TOWN
The deep blue waters of False Bay are intoxicating. You scan the depths as the rugged outline of Seal Island draws closer, or watch the wave’s crash upon the rocky, mammoth headland of Cape Point as you head out into the Atlantic Ocean. In every sharky location, a diverse abundance of wildlife surrounds, Southern Right whales exhaling through their blowholes, comedic African Penguins and thousand-strong pods of Common Dolphins patrolling for schools of fish. Yet the species you yearn to see most are always solitary; evolutionary masterpieces perfectly adapted to their habitat. Without warning – a movement catches your eye; the faintest shimmer, the merest glint of white teeth and an agile, powerful body. The incredible shark species found in these waters include Sevengill, Bronze Whaler, Blue and Mako shark, together with the occasional sighting of a Great white shark. No matter the species – your perspective will have been changed forever, way beyond your wildest imagination.

INCLUDED

• Guided Shark Cage Diving Tour Our qualified shark cage diving guides are especially trained for this very experience you are about to book. They are passionate and eager to share their knowledge with you, of not only the sharks, but all the marine wildlife you will encounter on your shark tour.
• Educational Booklet You will receive a beautiful illustrated educational eBook (or hard copy) on the marine life you may encounter on your shark tour from the apex predators in the ocean to the sea birds above.
• Light Meals Lunch consists of fresh fruit, delicious home baked quiches, gourmet sandwiches including chicken with pecan nuts amongst others. We will include a vegetarian option upon request. To quench that adventurous thirst, fruit juice and mineral water are on tap with a variety of snacks that are more on the indulgent side. All food is hygienically prepared and individually packaged using natural recyclable materials that are environmentally friendly.
• Dive Gear We guarantee a clean dry wetsuit for every guest of Apex Shark Expeditions. Each guest will receive dive equipment and a wetsuit that has been thoroughly disinfected and rinsed with fresh water and dried before use. Every piece of squeaky clean dive equipment will be used by one guest only per day. They say sharing is caring but we’ll leave that to Barney.
• Towels We do provide clean, dry towels however it is our goal is to reduce the consumption of natural resources in laundry and therefore we ask where possible, to provide your own towel.

ITINERARY

• Meet and greet for breakfast or brunch and an informative talk on the sharks in the area, and receive a safety and sighting briefing aboard White Pointer II before departure.
• Depart for historical Seal Island which is a 25 to 35 minute boat ride based on sea and weather conditions. Should amazing Cape Point be the location for the trip, the boat ride is +- 50 minutes.
• Arrive at anchor destination. Based on the weather, we will decide on the best spot to weigh anchor and begin attracting sharks to the vessel. The shark cage is then deployed, where it floats tied next to our vessel.
• The crew will brief the guests on shark cage safety and shark behavior around the vessel.
• Once a shark approaches our boat, bait is kept in the water to keep the shark around long enough for identification, viewing and cage diving purposes.
• It is important to know the sharks come very close to the boat so it is not necessary to cage dive in order to see the sharks. Those not wishing to dive will have excellent views of the sharks from the boat’s viewing deck.

Cape Town Helicopters is a young and vibrant company that has been exploring the African skies since 2011, giving foreigners and locals a chance to experience the most breath-taking views of the South African coastline along with the rush and exhilaration of flying. We have a small team consisting of 15 people, most of which has come straight out of University because we believe in empowering people and growing their skills to better our country.

We are dedicated in offering our passengers an unforgettable experience, whether on business or leisure trips, with multiple air travel options, while guaranteeing punctuality, safety and luxury. The Cape Town Helicopters crew are always ready to fly you to any destination in Africa or to carry out any aviation operation safe and efficient. Our unfailing commitment to customer satisfaction and the highest safety standards has made us the first choice for many travellers. We believe in excellent customer service and doing well within the community.

The packages we offer a wide variety of Scenic Peninsula flights around the …… Cape Peninsula to the more luxurious Day Adventures to the Winelands and Beyond. All our aircraft are immaculately maintained in line with recognised international safety standards, giving you peace of mind to enjoy the freedom of flying.

Needing a refuelling station for its trading fleets between Europe, Asia and Australia, Jan van Riebeeck built the first jetty on the shores of Table Bay for the Dutch East India Company. Although not a natural harbour, it remained in use until June 1858. Serious winter storms wrecked over 30 vessels and Lloyds of London refused to cover ships wintering in Table Bay any longer. So, the British Imperial Government approved the building of Cape Town’s first real harbour. Construction began and increased in breadth when gold and diamonds were discovered in South Africa.

As the oldest working harbour in the Southern Hemisphere, the V&A Waterfront, named after Queen Victoria and her son, Alfred, is, with its dramatic location, also the heart of Cape Town’s tourist industry. While surrounded by the Cape Town City Bowl, behind it towers one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World, Table Mountain. In front, lies the Atlantic Ocean and, not far offshore, is the infamous prison, Robben Island.

Take a guided tour and explore the V&A Waterfront’s more than 22 historical landmarks, like the Rat Catcher’s Cottage, ancient defensive fortifications, including the Chavonnes Battery Museum which, dating back to 1725, is the harbour’s oldest heritage site. The Iziko Maritime Centre is fascinating, as is the notorious Breakwater Prison, for 10 years one of the most feared prisons in the world, and Robinson Dry dock – the oldest operating dry dock in the world!

All this time travel builds up an appetite and, thankfully, the V&A is also a foodie heaven! Apart from the numerous world-class restaurants, the V&A Food Market is packed with delicious regional delicacies, artisanal breads and cheeses, craft beers, vegan treats, biltong – a South African speciality, and delectable ice cream.

At the V&A, fascinating history and scrumptious food mixes well with imaginative office locations, world-class hotels and luxury apartments, and 450 retail outlets in 5 shopping districts. There’s something for everyone, from local designers to big international brands, sophisticated audio equipment and crafts, art and jewellery.

With the exciting shopping experiences, the diversity and history, hedonistic spa treatments and exceptional food, and creative, dynamic events held here - from stand-up comedians to ‘Sharktober’ at the Two Oceans Aquarium - it’s no wonder the V&A Waterfront attracts more than 23 million visitors a year!

Ideally situated in Cape Town and accessible from all major transport route including the Hop-on, Hop-off City Sightseeing Cape Town Bus. This privately owned property “Silvermist Estate” has a number of facilities including a restaurant – conference facilities and other team building options as well to cater for groups

Icarus Tandem Paragliding Cape Town is an approximately 25 to 45 minutes tandem paragliding adventure offered by Icarus. The tandem paraglider is specifically designed to carry two people. The passenger is strapped into a harness in front of the experienced pilot. Standard paragliding flights are from Lions Head and Signal Hill in Cape Town and further out of Cape Town in Hermanus. Cross-country paragliding flights are from Porterville and Sir Lowry’s Pass. The paragliding pilot will brief visitors on taking off and landing procedures before the flight.

An exceptional tour at the premier Shimansky jewellers in trendy De Waterhant in Cape Town is one of the most luxurious tours in which you can indulge. From the cutting and polishing operations, the design studio, the state-of-the-art workshop to the 1200m2 showroom, you will be inspired by the creativity and beauty surrounding you. Discover how diamonds, formed 3 billion years ago deep below the Earth’s surface are transformed into the sparkling jewels that glitter on your fingers, ears, neck or on your wrists. Choose from a wide selection of diamonds or tanzanite - the only precious stone exclusive to the African continent - and, with the Shimansky designers, create a completely unique piece of jewelley. Designs co-created on the diamond tour will be brought to life within 48 hours. All Shimansky diamonds are conflict-free and of South African origin, and their journey from mine to finger can be traced. This fascinating experience will be enriched with stories of South Africa’s incredible diamond heritage thanks to Shimansky’s knowledgeable specialists. You will be amazed at the extraordinary levels of skill and expertise required, the dedication and authenticity needed to ensure every stone, hand selected from the mines, is analysed and graded according to the highest standards of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA-certified). Witness first-hand the transformation of the rough diamonds of the Earth into the cut and polished signature pieces of Shimansky jewellery. Across the globe, the Shimansky brand is set apart by the pioneering diamond cuts and jewellery designs of the ultimate Master Diamond Craftsman, Yair Shimansky. It’s not just the diamonds that sparkle. The stylish bar lounge with its tranquil ambiance and attentive service provide the perfect setting to experience premium wines, craft gins and whiskey tastings.

Nestled beneath Bantry Bay’s majestic Lion’s Head, on the shores of the Atlantic Ocean and just a step away from Cape Town’s CBD lies the President Hotel. Situated in Bantry Bay, the hotel is secluded, protected from the elements and therefore enjoys nearly 300 wind-free days of sunshine per year. The 4-star luxury hotel’s 349 rooms combine contemporary sophistication and comfort with spaciousness. Guests will experience fresh sea air, panoramic ocean views, superb cuisine, unsurpassed service and a friendly team waiting to welcome them.