Upgraded - Best of South Africa

Our tour begins today in Cape Town, South Africa's Mother City, nestled between the Atlantic Ocean and the Twelve Apostles mountain range.

This vibrant and culturally rich city has much to offer. For those arriving in the morning, there is the option to join an orientation tour of Cape Town. If you would like to take part, your Tour Leader or a local representative will meet you in the hotel reception at 12:30pm

Along the way, we'll take in some of the city's historic and cultural landmarks such as the colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood, the Castle of Good Hope, City Hall and the leafy Company's Garden.

We will return to the hotel in time for our official welcome meeting, before heading out to an authentic South African restaurant for our first group dinner.

If you would like more time to explore Cape Town in depth before we journey along the Garden Route, we recommend booking an extra night or two as a pre-tour stay.

A transfer from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) to the named start hotel is included on all trips in our Upgraded range regardless of your arrival day, provided we receive your flight details no later than 14 days prior to departure and you have made pre-tour accommodation arrangements through Explore. The journey from the airport to our hotel is around 30 minutes.

The majority of flights land into Cape Town in the early morning and it's often too early to check in to. However, early arrivals will have access to tea and coffee, toilets and the hotel lounge.

Our hotel for the first two nights is located in Sea Point, a vibrant and cosmopolitan suburb of Cape Town.

We'll set off early from our hotel for a full day exploring the stunning Cape Peninsula. Our first stop is Maiden's Cove, a picturesque viewpoint nestled between Clifton and Glen Beach, where we'll enjoy breathtaking views of the Twelve Apostles and the rear of Table Mountain. From there, we'll head to Hout Bay for a 40-minute boat cruise to Duiker Island, home to a large colony of Cape Fur Seals.

If the weather is favourable, we'll continue along the renowned Chapman's Peak Drive, taking in its dramatic coastal scenery before arriving at Cape Point Nature Reserve at the very tip of the Cape Peninsula, known for its dramatic sea cliffs, rich bio diversity and sweeping views over the Atlantic Ocean. On the way back, we'll visit Boulders Beach to observe its famous colony of African penguins.

We will stop for lunch in Simon's Town, an idyllic maritime town offering a variety of excellent seaside restaurants.

After a refresh at our hotel, we will travel a short distance to the base of Table Mountain. From here, we will take the Aerial Cableway to the summit, where a network of walking trails crosses the plateau. These paths offer a range of viewpoints with sweeping panoramas over Cape Town and the bay below. perfect for watching the sun set in the distance.

After breakfast, we'll begin our drive to the Winelands region, arriving at our first stop, Babylonstoren Vineyard, after around two hours on the road. Here, we will enjoy a full cellar tour including a number of wine tastings. We will also enjoy lunch at their Greenhouse Restaurant, a peaceful hideaway nestled among the oak trees at the far end of the garden, where guests can dine surrounded by greenery and a tranquil, natural setting.

In the afternoon, we continue to Het Vlock Casteel for an olive tasting experience, where you can sample fresh local olive oils alongside a selection of olives, dips, and salts.

We then conclude the day with a short drive to our hotel, one of the oldest in South Africa, nestled in the idyllic Riebeek Valley. Housed in a historic colonial-style building, the hotel provides the perfect setting to soak up its rich heritage, wander through its charming gardens, or relax by the pool with a glass of local wine.

After check in, there'll be time to unwind and enjoy a cooling dip in the pool. We'll have dinner either at the hotel or at a nearby restaurant.

Today we'll travel towards the Cederberg region, with a stop along the way at a local wine estate. Here we can enjoy a wine tasting and see how one of South Africa's wineries craft its wines, taking a relaxed break before we continue our journey.

In the afternoon, we'll visit the Carmien Tea Shop, where we'll join the Rooibos Experience. This includes a guided walk through the nearby rooibos fields at De Tol, where we'll learn how rooibos is grown and harvested. The visit includes a short presentation, a tasting session of a number of different rooibos teas as well as a tea blending activity where we'll attempt to create our own rooibos blend using a variety of natural ingredients.

Founded as a local co-operative in the early 2000s, Carmién was established to create employment opportunities and support community development in the Citrusdal area. Today, the organisation continues to invest in local communities through educational centres, wraparound care facilities and annual apprenticeships for local residents.

For the next two nights, we'll stay at Piekenierskloof, a lodge set in the heart of the Cederberg Mountains. Perched at the top of the pass and overlooking the town of Citrusdal, Piekenierskloof offers uninterrupted views of vineyards and lowland plateaus. The lodge features a swimming pools, spacious rooms, and an expansive patio terrace where you can enjoy breakfast.

Today we are free to explore the Cederberg at your own pace. There are a number of marked hiking trails in the area, including a scenic 3.7-kilometre/2.2-mile trail that circles the lodge, with three viewpoints showcasing the very best of this unique part of the Garden Route. Maps and assistance are available at reception, and our tour leader will be on hand to advise which trail is best suited to the time of year and weather conditions.

If walking is not for you, you might prefer to visit a neighbouring vineyard, renowned for its full-bodied, fruity Grenache made from grapes grown on the hills surrounding the lodge. There are also a number of other optional activities available on site. Please refer to the prices in the budgeting section below for further details.

Alternatively, you might like to stay at the lodge, soak up the serene beauty of the surrounding hills, and make the most of the two on-site swimming pools. The choice is entirely yours.

Today is a travel day as we make our way to Oudtshoorn, famously known as the ostrich capital of the world. Along the route, we'll pass through the picturesque towns of Worcester, Robertson and Montagu, before arriving in the charming village of Barrydale, where we'll pause for a relaxed lunch.

Upon arrival in Oudtshoorn, we'll check in for a two-night stay at the beautiful Hlangana Lodge, a welcoming, family-run retreat set within lush, tranquil gardens.

Our day begins with a visit to a nearby ostrich farm for an up-close encounter with one of the region's most iconic animals. Oudtshoorn is known as the ostrich capital of the world, and this visit shows exactly why. With their long legs, curious eyes and unmistakable strut, ostriches are both amusing and impressive. On a guided tour of the farm, you will learn about the life cycle of these flightless birds, from egg incubation and chick rearing to adult behaviour and breeding habits.

Afterwards, we head to the magnificent Cango Caves, a breathtaking underground world of limestone formations shaped by nature over millions of years. Hidden within a limestone ridge at the foothills of the Swartberg Mountains, this vast cave system is considered one of South Africa's greatest natural wonders. First discovered in the late 18th century, the caves have since captured the imagination of travellers from around the world.

Inside, we follow a guided heritage walk through the first series of grand halls and chambers. These feature soaring ceilings, towering stalagmites and delicate curtain-like stalactites, all naturally sculpted into extraordinary shapes. The route leads through dramatic spaces such as the African Drum Room, where ancient rock formations echo with a sense of mystery and wonder.

Later in the day, we set off on a sunset tour through the spectacular Swartberg Pass. As we wind our way up the mountain, the ever-changing Karoo landscape reveals stunning views and countless photo opportunities. Along the way, our guide shares insights into the region's unique flora, fauna and geology, as well as the fascinating story of the pass's construction. At the top, we continue towards the vast Great Karoo, where there is time to stretch our legs and explore the natural surroundings before enjoying a scenic sundowner.

We end the day with a traditional country dinner at Kobus se Gat Restaurant, where you can sample authentic Karoo cuisine and experience a true African braai, complete with music, storytelling and dancing under the stars. It is a joyful celebration of local culture and history.

On the way to our accommodation, we will make a stop at a local farmers market, offering a great opportunity to stretch your legs and enjoy a relaxed lunch. Here, you can browse a variety of fresh, locally sourced produce and regional specialities, giving you a real taste of the area and its flavours.

After lunch, we will continue with the final 50-minute drive to our accommodation.

Later in the afternoon, we'll enjoy a relaxing river cruise on the Hoogekraal and Karatara River. This gentle boat ride offers an excellent opportunity to unwind while taking in the tranquil surroundings. As we glide along the calm waters, you might see a variety of bird species such as kingfishers, herons, and other waterfowl. The riverbanks are lush with vegetation and provide a peaceful setting to observe the natural world. This leisurely cruise is the perfect way to soak up the serenity of the region, capture beautiful photographs, and appreciate the quiet beauty of the waterways.

This evening is at your leisure - there are a number of excellent local restaurants to discover.

We'll enjoy a relaxed start to the morning before heading to Goukamma Nature Reserve for a guided walk. This remarkable reserve is celebrated for its rich biodiversity and beautifully preserved natural landscapes. As we follow easy walking trails, we'll discover the distinctive indigenous fynbos vegetation, a unique mosaic of shrubs and wildflowers found only in this part of South Africa. Our knowledgeable guide will help bring the ecosystem to life, sharing insights into its ecological importance and the ongoing conservation efforts that help protect it. Along the way, keep an eye out for colourful birdlife, small mammals, and a fascinating variety of insects that all contribute to the reserve's vibrant natural balance.

Afterwards, we continue to the coastal town of Knysna along the Garden Route, where we board a relaxed cruise on the Knysna Lagoon. We head towards the iconic Knysna Heads, where two dramatic sandstone cliffs frame the entrance to the open Indian Ocean. This striking stretch of coastline offers spectacular views, with the sheltered estuary giving way to the sea beyond. The Knysna Estuary is a vital ecosystem, supporting a wide range of birdlife, marine species, and indigenous vegetation.

During the cruise, there will be the opportunity to sample Knysna's famous oysters, now predominantly sustainably farmed in the calm lagoon waters and prized for their clean, briny flavour and delicate texture. Wine and soft drinks will also be served on board, adding to the relaxed, scenic atmosphere.

We then return to Sedgefield in the early evening for dinner.

After breakfast this morning, we set off towards the scenic coastal city of Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth). En route, we pause at Storms River Mouth in the renowned Tsitsikamma National Park for a refreshing 2-kilometre (1.2-mile) round-trip hike. This scenic walk takes us across the impressive 77-metre suspension bridge, with sweeping views of the river as it meets the Indian Ocean. The lush forest setting and fresh sea air make this a truly memorable experience.

We then continue our journey to Gqeberha, where we check into our accommodation and take some time to unwind, either at the hotel or on one of the area's many unspoilt beaches. A popular local spot, the Summerstrand beachfront promenade, is also well worth a visit.

As the day draws to a close, we return to the hotel for a delicious dinner to bid farewell to the Garden Route. Tomorrow, we head north to the safari haven of Kruger.

Early this morning we'll make the short journey to the airport (PLZ), where we'll board our morning flight to Johannesburg. After clearing customs and collecting our luggage, we'll set off on the next stage of our adventure: the journey towards Kruger National Park.

Unlike the coastal beauty of the Garden Route, this drive takes us inland through South Africa's heartland, where the landscape shifts to wide-open plains, scattered acacia trees, and rugged bushveld. Along the way, we'll pause regularly to stretch our legs and appreciate the changing scenery, keeping an eye out for wildlife and local birdlife that become more abundant as we approach the park.

The drive usually takes between five and six hours, allowing us to arrive at our camp in the late afternoon. You'll have plenty of time to relax by the pool or enjoy a drink at the bar before dinner. Tonight, we'll get an early night in preparation for a full day of wildlife spotting and safari tomorrow, starting bright and early.

Rising with the sun, we'll depart our lodge in the early hours of the morning. Accompanied by a local guide, we'll travel in open-sided safari vehicles to begin a full day of game driving inside Kruger National Park - one of southern Africa's premier wildlife viewing destinations. Established in 1898 to protect big game that had been hunted to near extinction, Kruger is now one of South Africa's most prolific animal habitats, dedicated to conservation.

During today's safari, we'll stop at various watering holes, where buffalo and antelope are often spotted. We might also encounter members of the legendary Big Five: lion, leopard, rhino, elephant, and cape buffalo. We'll spend the morning searching for wildlife before stopping at one of the park's restaurants or cafés for lunch.

After our break, we'll continue with our safari before returning to our lodge in the late afternoon.

Today begins with an early morning walking safari, offering the chance to spot some of the reserve's early risers. Led by qualified guides and rangers who know the area intimately, you'll learn to read the landscape through tracks, droppings, and other subtle signs that bring the bush to life.

Later in the morning, we return to the lodge for a well-earned rest before heading back out to continue where we left off yesterday on another game drive in the reserve. Depending on previous sightings, we may focus on searching for some of the park's more elusive and unusual wildlife, including honey badger, black rhino and eland.

We return to camp in the early evening to celebrate our final night of the tour with a traditional open-air boma dinner.

Departing around 7am or earlier this morning, we'll begin our drive back to Johannesburg. We expect to arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) at around 3:30 pm, where our trip comes to an end. Please ensure that your flight departs no earlier than 6.00pm.