The Essential Afrique du Sud in 11 Days

You continue your exploration of the Kruger region, at the pace of wildlife and experiences offered during your safari lodge stay.

Sharing occupies a central place in this adventure. Discoveries are lived together, in a friendly spirit that invites you to take a different perspective on travel in Afrique du Sud.

In the Timbavati private reserve, safaris offer the opportunity to observe the Big Five: leopard, lion, elephant, buffalo and rhinoceros.

Depending on conditions and the program, you explore the reserve by 4x4 vehicle or on foot, with experienced rangers. They guide you through landscapes of grasslands, rivers, forests and open plains. The reserve is also home to giraffes, zebras, antelopes, hyenas and a great diversity of birds.

✅4x4 safari at sunset.

✅4x4 safari at sunrise.

During these two days in the Timbavati Reserve, you explore the bush during sunrise and sunset safaris. You set out to encounter wildlife, including the Big Five, in its natural environment. By your side, professional rangers and trackers share their knowledge of the animals, flora and ecosystem of the region.

🦁Sunrise Safari

Depending on the season, the morning safari begins just before sunrise. After a gentle wake-up, you have a cup of tea or coffee, then set off with your guide. You attempt to spot certain rare or elusive species, such as white lions, African wild dogs or aardvarks.

Back at the lodge, the culinary team serves you brunch, in a convivial and relaxed atmosphere.

🦁Sunset Safari

After high tea, you set off again for a guided safari in late afternoon. The golden light accompanies your observations, while the animals make the most of the last hours of daylight. A pause facing the sunset allows you to savour a personalized selection of drinks and snacks.

As night falls, you return to camp with the tracker's assistance. He illuminates the surroundings to spot and identify nocturnal wildlife. Upon your arrival, dinner is served indoors or under the starry sky.

Depending on conditions, a walking safari may also be offered. Led by qualified and experienced professional guides, this walk lasts two to three hours. It begins with a briefing on safety rules and behaviour to adopt in the bush. In case of unfavourable weather, it is replaced by a vehicle safari.

✅4x4 safari at sunset.

✅4x4 safari at sunrise.

Accompanied by your guide, you dedicate this day to discovering the Cape and one of its emblematic sites: table Mountain.

You begin with an ascent by cable car. On the way up and down, the cabin rotates 360°, gradually revealing the landscape. At the summit, approximately 1,000 meters above sea level, you enjoy a walk on flat terrain. Several viewpoints allow you to admire the city and the Atlantic Ocean.

With its characteristic flat silhouette, Table Mountain dominates Cape Town and serves as a landmark from many neighborhoods. From its summit, the panorama extends over the city, the ocean and the entire Cape of Good Hope peninsula.

You continue with a stroll through the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, known for its houses with colorful facades and its cultural identity. Formerly called the Malay Quarter, it invites you to discover the history, architecture and gastronomy linked to the local community.

Accompanied by your English-speaking guide, you dedicate this day to discovering the Cape Peninsula and the Cape of Good Hope, for an escape with an end-of-the-world feel.

You head towards the small fishing port of Hout Bay, nestled in a bay bordered by the Atlantic Ocean. You then take the scenic Chapman's Peak route, which winds along the mountainside above the ocean, before continuing towards Simonstown and Boulders Beach.

A stop allows you to observe the Cape penguin colony, which has spontaneously established itself in this residential area and public bathing space. Boardwalks facilitate their observation while respecting their natural habitat. In addition to the walkway, you can access an adjacent beach for picnicking and swimming in the presence of the penguins.

Off the coast of the Cape of Good Hope, formerly named Cape of Storms, many ships of the Dutch East India Company were wrecked in the 17th century. These shipwrecks preceded the establishment of a trading post on the peninsula, which was the origin of Cape Town.

From the lighthouse at Cape Point, a hike of approximately 1 hour 30 minutes allows you to reach the tip of the peninsula. To access the lighthouse, located at 87 meters above sea level, you can take an asphalt path or the Flying Dutchman funicular, whose name evokes the local legend of the phantom ship.

✅Guided tour of the Cape Peninsula.

✅English-speaking driver-guide.

✅Tickets for Boulders Beach.

✅Tickets for Cape Point.

You get a free day at the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, a lively and friendly neighborhood in Cape Town. Shopping, culture, relaxation or family time: this emblematic harbor is discovered according to your wishes, between visits and walks by the water.

Here are some activity suggestions to organize your day:

• Shopping: browse the shops and stores offering local crafts, designer clothes or jewelry.

• Two Oceans Aquarium: discover a wide diversity of marine species.

• Cape Wheel: take a seat on the big wheel to admire the Waterfront and its surroundings.

• Sunset cruise: sail in the bay with views of the harbor and Table Mountain, and perhaps some seals to observe.

• Zeitz MOCAA Museum: explore this contemporary African art museum, recognized for its architecture and the variety of works on display.

• Gastronomy: take a break to have lunch or dinner at a restaurant, café or food stand, with a wide choice of cuisines.

• Music and shows: enjoy the neighborhood's entertainment, between street performances and live music.

• Robben Island excursion: discover the history of the island where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for many years.

• Walking tour: stroll along the waterfront to enjoy the scenery and ocean air.

• Helicopter flight: you can book a flight to discover Cape Town from the air.

The Waterfront also hosts events, exhibitions and temporary markets, in addition to activities offered year-round. You discover, at your own pace, the bustle of Cape Town and its cultural diversity.

You spend this day on the free discovery of Franschhoek and its many wine estates in Cape Dutch style, in the heart of the wine region.

The history of the village is linked to the arrival of French Huguenot refugees, who left Europe in the 17th century to join the Cape Colony. These families contributed to the development of the region. The name Franschhoek, which means "the corner of the French," recalls this heritage.

Suggestions for visits in Franschhoek:

• Huguenot Museum and Memorial : discover the history of Protestant families exiled in Afrique du Sud in the 17th century.

• Babylonstoren : this 17th-century wine estate combines vineyards, gardens, accommodation and restaurant. It is notably known for its vast themed gardens, tastings of wines produced on site and its culinary experiences.

• Boschendal : this historic estate offers vineyard tours and wine tastings. You can also enjoy a gourmet picnic prepared with local artisanal products.

• La Motte : discover an estate that combines internationally renowned wines and South African art, with tastings and an adjacent art gallery.

• Franschhoek Cellar : enjoy a wide selection of wines to taste and dining options featuring local products.

• Haute Cabrière : specializing in sparkling wines and white wines, this estate offers tastings in an underground cave. Its restaurant offers a panoramic view over the valley.

These suggestions allow you to compose your day according to your wishes. Each estate has its own identity, atmosphere and approach to wine.