GRAND TOUR OF AFRICA
The ultimate adventure for intrepid travellers who want to experience the very best of East Africa and Southern Africa on one exclusive tailor-made itinerary, our Grand Tour of Africa will take you deep into the bush, into the hearts of the African people, and into a whole new world.
A magnificent 28-day tour, fully inclusive of luxury accommodations, unique safari experiences, coastal adventures, and all flights within Africa, it is a once-in-a-lifetime adventure that showcases the very best of what this beautiful continent has to offer. Departures available throughout the year for couples and groups of any size.
ITINERARY
YOUR AFRICAN EXPERIENCE VISITING
EAST AFRICA: Nairobi, Masai Mara, Serengeti NP, Ngorongoro Crater, Lake Manyara NP, Tarangire NP
ZIMBABWE / BOTSWANA / ZAMBIA: Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, Chobe National Park
SOUTH AFRICA: Johannesburg, Sabi Sand Kruger National Park, Cape Town, Grootbos, Cape Winelands
UNFORGETTABLE ADVENTURES INCLUDED IN YOUR AFRICAN ADVENTURE
VALUE INCLUSIONS
ITINERARY
DAY 1: ARRIVE NAIROBI
Arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and after clearing with immigration and customs formalities, you will be met by a representative of Wilderness Safaris and transferred to Nairobi Serena Hotel.
The Nairobi Serena stands amidst lush tropical gardens with panoramic views over Nairobi’s Central Park and the glittering downtown skyline. Despite its central location, the Serena remains an oasis of serenity amidst the bustle of one of Africa’s most vibrant capital cities. The interior décor of the hotel reflects a kaleidoscope of cultural influences blending Moroccan mystique and a breadth of African heritage. The hotel offers a range of dining experiences and is renowned for its ‘Mandhari' fine-dining restaurant. There is also a world-class Conference Centre and the exclusive ‘Maisha' Health Club and Spa. Dinner will be at the hotel tonight. Overnight at Nairobi Serena Hotel (Meal: Dinner)
DAY 2: NAIROBI – MASAI MARA
Breakfast at the hotel and then transfer to Wilson Airport for a scheduled flight departing at 10.30 hrs to Masai Mara National Reserve. On arrival at Mara Serena airstrip at approximately 11.10 hrs, you will be met by our professional English speaking driver guides and transferred to Mara Serena Safari Lodge.
Mara Serena Safari Lodge is located at the centre of the famous ‘Mara Triangle' within the Masai Mara National Reserve. The lodge sits on a hill with panoramic views of the savannah plains and the winding hippo-filled Mara River below. Styled to resemble the circular motif of a traditional Maasai Manyatta (village), the lodge blends luxury with raw African beauty. Rooms are all en-suite with a private verandah and a spacious seating area. The central dining and bar areas enjoy spectacular views, as does the swimming pool. Lunch at the lodge. This will be followed by an afternoon game drive in the reserve. Dinner at the lodge. Overnight at Mara Serena Safari Lodge (Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner)
DAY 3 & 4: MASAI MARA
Spend the next two days in Masai Mara with game drives. Your driver guides will plan your days with you, which can be as active or as leisurely as you wish. You may decide to spend the whole day in the reserve with picnic lunch or enjoy a morning game drive and return to the lodge for a leisurely lunch and time to relax before going out game viewing again in the cooler hours of the afternoon.
Masai Mara is one of Africa’s greatest wildlife reserves. Acacia dotted plains, tree-lined rivers and woodlands are abundant with wildlife and an array of birdlife. Game viewing is spectacular year round; you may see a pride of lions stalking their prey, observe a herd of elephant and their fascinating social structure, or see pods of hippo wallowing in the rivers. The great wildebeest migration is one of nature’s wonders; an estimated two million animals migrate in a year-round pattern through Tanzania and Kenya following the rain. From around July to October each year the grasslands of the Mara and Northern Serengeti are covered by a mass of moving wildebeest, offering easy opportunity for crocodile and predators that are never far away. During your stay in the Mara, you will visit a traditional Maasai village to learn more about their ancient culture and traditions, which they still practice today. Meet the elders of the village, the warriors and the women and children who love to entertain with song and dance. Overnight at Mara Serena Safari Lodge (Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner)
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN MASAI MARA INCLUDE:
Hot Air Balloon: Early morning wake up with a hot beverage and biscuits served in your tent. Transfer to the balloon launch site. The balloon sets afloat at the first rays of sunrise, floating gently over the plains and giving a bird’s eye view of the game below. After around one hour the balloon lands and nearby breakfast is already being prepared as glasses of bubbly toast your flight.
Sundowner Bubbly Cocktail: As the afternoon game drive comes to an end, drive to a specially chosen vantage point and take in the beauty of the rapid sunset as it transforms the world in a matter of minutes. Relax by roaring fire with drinks and canapés and enjoy the spectacular view on the horizon.
Hippo Pool Breakfast with Bubbly: After a morning game drive, you stop at a secluded and shady spot on the banks of the Mara River. It’s where hippos bask in the warming sun, birds flit among the shady branches and plains game stroll across the grasslands. The breakfast of sparkling wine, freshly squeezed juices and chilled tropical fruits.This also includes freshly prepared eggs, sausages and bacon, scones and pancakes with honey.
Bush BBQ: After the morning game viewing activity drive to a specially chosen point where a hot lunch has been prepared and will be served in the middle of the wilderness.
DAY 5: MASAI MARA / MIGORI / TARIME / SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Breakfast at the lodge and then transfer to the airstrip for a scheduled flight departing at 08.45 hrs to Migori airstrip. On arrival at 09.30 hrs, you will be met and transferred to the Kenya/Tanzania border point of Isebania to clear with immigration and customs formalities. Then, transfer to Tarime airstrip for another scheduled flight departing at 11.00 hrs to Serengeti National Park [Approximately 45 min drive from Migori, Kenya to Tarime, Tanzania - not including stop at Isebania border]. On arrival at Seronera airstrip at approximately 13.00 hrs, you will be met by our Tanzania professional English speaking driver guides and transferred to Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge.
Set high on the saddle of a tree-clad ridge, commanding panoramic views across the Serengeti, the Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge is a fusion of traditional African architecture and modern style. The lodge has 66 rooms and has been designed to blend completely into the landscape and is decorated with lavish African carvings. There is a ‘horizon' pool, which looks out over the ‘endless plains' after which the Serengeti is named. Lunch at the lodge. There will be time to relax before your afternoon game drive in the park. Overnight at Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge (Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner)
DAY 6 & 7: SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK
Spend two days in Serengeti with morning and afternoon game drives or full day game drives with picnic lunch. The name 'Serengeti' comes from the Maasai language and means ‘endless place' The vast open savannahs and wooded grasslands are home to large predators like lion, leopards, cheetahs, herds of buffalo, elephant, giraffe and also to a host of plains game and a wide variety of birdlife. Serengeti is host to the great Wildebeest migration which is one of the natural wonders of the animal world - millions of wildebeest and zebra migrate in a year-round pattern through Tanzania and Kenya and iin the early months of each year the short grass plains of Serengeti provide the perfect setting for the calving season where hundreds of calves are born. All meals at the lodge. Overnight at Serengeti Serena Safari Lodge (Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner)
OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES IN SERENGETI NATIONAL PARK INCLUDE:
Hot Air Balloon Serengeti: Early morning wake up with a hot beverage and biscuits served in your tent. Transfer to the balloon launch site. The balloon sets afloat at the first rays of sunrise, floating gently over the plains and giving a bird’s eye view of the game below. After around one hour the balloon lands and nearby breakfast is already being prepared as glasses of bubbly toast your flight.
Bush Dinner: An elegant dinner served in a secluded clearing in the middle of the African bush, under the star lit sky. Lanterns throw their golden glow over the beautifully set tables as waiters serve the meal. After dinner relax by the warm camp fire and take in the sounds of the African night.
DAY 8: SERENGETI / NGORONGORO CONSERVATION AREA
This morning after breakfast, you will be transferred to the airstrip for a scheduled flight departing at 10.45 hrs to Lake Manyara airstrip. On arrival at 11.25 hrs, you will be met by Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge driver guides and transferred to the lodge. Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge is built from local river stone and camouflaged with indigenous vines so that it blends completely into the landscape. The lodge is decorated with cave paintings and lit by flaring torches, taking inspiration from the prehistoric site of Olduvai Gorge, which is located nearby. The rooms are strung around the Crater rim and each has its own balcony with uninterrupted views of the volcanic amphitheatre below. Lunch at the lodge. After lunch, spend the rest of the afternoon at leisure. Overnight at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge (Meals: Breakfast, lunch & dinner)
DAY 9: NGORONGORO CRATER
Today, you will descend into Ngorongoro Crater for a full day game viewing with picnic lunches inside the crater. The Ngorongoro Crater is a World Heritage Site and is the home to a wide variety of animals. The Crater is about 610 Meters deep and 260 km squared and consists of a number of ecological environments, including grasslands, swamps, forests and even a soda lake. There is a wide variety of game like, rhino, buffalo, wildebeest, zebra and an amazing variety of birdlife including thousands of migrating flamingos. Later in the afternoon, return to your lodge in time to freshen up before dinner. Overnight at Ngorongoro Serena Safari Lodge (Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner)
DAY 10: NGORONGORO / LAKE MANYARA NATIONAL PARK
Breakfast at the lodge and then drive (approximately 2 hours) to Lake Manyara National Park for game drive with picnic lunch. Lake Manyara National Park sits at the base of the Great Rift Valley and is famous for its tree-climbing lions. The large shallow lake and the surrounding landscape are extremely scenic. Large fig and mahogany trees can be seen in the forest around the park gates and to the south are acacia woodlands. The lake and the surrounding area are home to over 300 bird species, including flocks of migratory flamingo. During the dry seasons, the lake waters recede exposing large grass covered areas. Later in the afternoon, you will be transferred to Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge. Standing high on the edge of an escarpment with panoramic views over the glittering alkaline waters of Lake Manyara, Lake Manyara Serena offers a unique blend of tranquillity, wildlife discovery, and ornithological richness. The lodge features a central dining room, bar, veranda and swimming pool which is perched on the very edge of the cliff, with stunning views over the lake. Accommodation is in circular two-story ‘rondavels', which house the rooms and are dotted around the grounds, all with views over the lake. The hotel has been designed to reflect the brilliance of Lake Manyara's unique birdlife, the architectural motif melds swooping avian curves with the gentle concentric patterns of traditional Maasai ‘Bomas' , while the vibrantly coloured wall frescoes depict the colourful intricacy of bird migratory patterns. Various activities are available, including mountain biking, canoeing (when water levels permit), forest walks and cultural visits to neighbouring villages. Dinner at the lodge. Overnight at Lake Manyara Serena Safari Lodge (Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner)
DAY 11: LAKE MANYARA / TARANGIRE NATIONAL PARK
Following breakfast, drive (approximately 2.5 hours) to Tarangire National Park for game viewing with picnic lunch.
Tarangire National Park is home to large herds of elephant and other game, including the elusive leopard and over 400 bird species. The parks picturesque landscape is dotted with large Baobab trees and it gets its name from the Tarangire river that crosses through the park. During the dry season (from around August to October) the river is the only source of water for the animals. Later in the day, drive to Arusha Serena Hotel.
Nestled at the foot of the wooded slopes of Mount Meru, this unique hotel stands amid coffee plantations on the shores of tranquil Lake Duluti. The hotel was designed to echo the traditional style of a colonial coffee farm which originally stood on this site. Arusha Serena Hotel offers a range of tastefully presented cottage-styled rooms set amid extensive landscaped grounds and, if time permits, there is a broad range of activities on offer (some at an extra cost), like: walking, mountain biking and canoeing on the lake. There is a lounge, library, restaurant, boutique and business centre. Dinner will be served at the hotel. Overnight at Arusha Serena Hotel (Meals: Breakfast, picnic lunch & dinner)
DAY 12: DEPART KILIMANJARO AIRPORT (JRO) TO JOHANNESBURG
Breakfast at the hotel and later transfer to Kilimanjaro Airport for your flight to Johannesburg where you will overnight. Intercontinental Johannesburg Airport (Meals: Breakfast)
DAY 13: DEPART JOHANNESBURG TO VICTORIA FALLS
After a leisurely breakfast, transfer back to the airport (opposite the hotel) for your onward flight to Victoria Falls. Scheduled road transfer from Victoria Falls Airport to The Victoria Falls Hotel. Overnight at The Victoria Falls Hotel (Meals: Breakfast & dinner)
DAY 14: VICTORIA FALLS
MORNING: Scheduled Tour of Victoria Falls Zimbabwean Side
The Victoria Falls is one of the seven natural wonders of the world. David Livingstone was the first European to visit the Falls and named it after Queen Victoria. To the locals, it is known as Mosi-oa-Tunya The Smoke that Thunders an accurate description of what happens when the waters of the Zambezi River plunge over the 1700 metre wide and 100-metre deep chasm, creating a shower of spray and a deafening noise. From February to May each year, the Victoria Falls are in full flood and 500 million litres of water tumble over the edge into a series of gorges each minute! After a briefing and explanation of the Falls, your guide accompanies you along the 1.7 kilometre scenic pathways of the rainforest, stopping at numerous viewpoints to gaze at the Falls. This tour is approximately 1 ½ - 2 hours and Includes transfers to and from your hotel.
AFTERNOON: Flight of the Angels 13 Minute Helicopter Excursion
This ideal birds-eye aerial view of the Zambezi River, the Victoria Falls and the gorges can be viewed by light aircraft (fixed wing) or Bell helicopter (Jet Ranger 4 passengers, Long Ranger 6 passengers). View the Zambezi from the air in all its beauty as it flows to the Falls, where it throws up a cloud of spray that sometimes reaches 300 metres high. The excursion also gives you a better understanding of the zigzag gorge system and how it developed it also ideally complements a ground tour of the Falls and its surrounding rainforest.
NB. Helicopter flights are weather-permitting. No age restriction, weight or health requirements apply.
EVENING: The Zambezi Explorer Sunset Cruise Zambezi River, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
The Zambezi Explorer is a luxury catamaran that cruises the mighty Zambezi River upstream of the Victoria Falls. This modern catamaran lets you enjoy the best of the Zambezi River in comfort and style. The décor is proudly 'African chic' mimicking the subtle hues of the savannah. From the rich tapestry of colour inspired by the red earth, to the artistic genius of its peoples, The Zambezi Explorer showcases an African imagination. At the end of the day, the Zambezi Explorer sails upstream to celebrate the setting African sun. Enjoy a range of cocktails served with an accompaniment of delectable hors d' oeuvres. Bring a camera and create your own golden memories. Overnight at The Victoria Falls Hotel (Meals: Breakfast & dinner)
DAY 15: VICTORIA FALLS
Scheduled Chobe Day Trip
This tour departs daily at 07h30 from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park in Botswana. You are transferred to the Kazungula border where your Botswana guide will meet you. The transfer takes approximately 40 minutes. From here you proceed directly to the Chobe River where you spend the morning game viewing by boat. Tea, coffee & biscuits are provided on board. The morning cruise ends around 12h30 and you are transferred to the Chobe Safari Lodge for lunch on the riverbank. After lunch, you’ll head out on an afternoon game drive in the Chobe National Park, taking in the abundance of wildlife. The game drive ends at around 16h30 after which you are transferred back to the border and arrive in Victoria Falls at around 18h30. Overnight at The Victoria Falls Hotel (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & dinner)
DAY 16: VICTORIA FALLS – HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Depart from The Victoria Falls Hotel to Victoria Falls Airport.
Transfer by Road - Makalolo / Linkwasha Airstrip – Linkwasha.
Linkwasha Camp lies in a private concession near the Ngamo Plains in Hwange National Park. Hwange is known for its prolific summer or green season game viewing, and Linkwasha adds an extra
dimension during the dry season, when wildlife streams to drink from the pan immediately in front of the camp. Nine luxurious en-suite tents (eight twin and one family) make this the most
exclusive of Hwange’s camps. The multi-level main area shares the same unimpeded views, and day and night safaris in open 4x4 vehicles, walks and village visits let guests get to know their
neighbours, both animal and human. Overnight at Linkwasha Camp (Meals: Breakfast & dinner) Includes: twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry and all local drinks except
premium imported brands and champagne.
DAY 17: HWANGE NATIONAL PARK
Spend a full day enjoying the safari based activities at Linkwasha Camp. Overnight at Linkwasha Camp (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) Includes: twice daily scheduled camp activities, park fees, laundry and all local drinks except premium imported brands and champagne.
DAY 18: HWANGE NATIONAL PARK – VICTORIA FALLS – KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
Depart from Linkwasha Camp to Linkwasha Airstrip. Transfer by Road – Victoria Falls Airport to Livingstone Airport for direct flight to Kruger National Park. Private road transfer from Kruger Mpumalanga Airport to Inyati Game Lodge with English speaking driver/guide.
As you arrive at Inyati Private Game Reserve you will be struck by a remarkable feeling of peace and tranquillity. You will meet the genial and well-trained management and staff who will be your hosts for your stay at Inyati. Situated on the scenic banks of the perennial Sand River, Inyati is set in 65 000 hectares of the most diverse and beautiful bushveld, in one of the world’s largest and most prestigious private conservancies. the Sabi Sand Game Reserve, adjacent to the Kruger National Park. Overnight at Inyati Private Game Reserve (Meals: Breakfast & dinner) Includes: twice daily scheduled camp activities, refreshments on game drives, fishing, walking, night safaris, tea and coffee.
DAY 19 & 20: INYATI GAME RESERVE, SABI SANDS
Spend the next 2 days enjoying the safari based activities at Inyati Game Reserve
Overnight at Inyati Game Reserve (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & dinner) Includes: twice daily scheduled camp activities, refreshments on game drives, fishing, walking, night safaris, tea and coffee.
DAY 21: SABI SANDS GAME RESERVE – CAPE TOWN
Depart from Inyati Game Lodge
Private road transfer from Inyati Game Lodge to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport Depart Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport on direct flight to Cape Town. Private road transfer from
Cape Town International Airport to Table Bay Hotel. Overnight at The Table Bay Hotel (Meals: Breakfast)
DAY 22: CAPE TOWN
A privately guided experience in and around Cape Town. This tour can be tailormade according to your interests as there is no pre-determined itinerary. This guarantees maximum flexibility. Recommendations include Table Mountain, Robben Island, and the Cape of Good Hope. Ticket availability for certain activities may present a challenge if not pre-booked, and so we recommend you book before travel. Entrance fees and meals are to your own account. Overnight at The Table Bay Hotel (Meals: Breakfast)
DAY 23: CAPE TOWN
A privately guided experience in and around Cape Town. This tour can be tailormade according to your interests as there is no pre-determined itinerary. This guarantees maximum flexibility. Recommendations include Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens and Wine Tasting in Stellenbosch. Ticket availability for certain activities may present a challenge if not pre-booked, and so we recommend you book before travel. Entrance fees and meals are to your own account. Overnight at The Table Bay Hotel (Meals: Breakfast)
DAY 24: CAPE TOWN – GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE
Depart from Table Bay Hotel
Private road transfer from Table Bay Hotel to Cape Town International Airport.
Private road transfer from Cape Town International Airport to Grootbos Nature Reserve.
Nestled in an ancient Milkwood forest in the peaceful Grootbos Private Nature Reserve, surrounded by rolling hills of fynbos and majestic mountains, The Forest Lodge features 16 freestanding luxury suites beneath an ancient forest canopy. Each of the suites are stylishly furnished with canopy beds, spacious en suite bathrooms, separate lounges with cosy fireplaces and private wooden decks with spectacular panoramic views. The lodge features a variety of elegant dining venues, a bar, lounge, curio shop and conference centre. Spacious wooden decks and an infinity pool beckon you to relax and unwind. As the evening descends, cosy fireplaces and subtle lighting create a warm, romantic atmosphere for the perfect dining experience. Overnight at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve (Meals: Breakfast & Dinner) Includes: welcome drink served upon arrival, fresh fruit daily in suite, scheduled daily activities & transfers to/from all activities.
DAY 25: GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE
Spend the day enjoying the vast amount of activities on offer at Grootbos, including guided nature walks, coastal safaris, whale watching and spa treatments (some activities are payable onsite). Overnight at Grootbos Private Nature Reserve (Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner) Includes: welcome drink served upon arrival, fresh fruit daily in suite, scheduled daily activities & transfers to/from all activities.
DAY 26: GROOTBOS PRIVATE NATURE RESERVE – FRANSCHHOEK WINELANDS
Depart from Grootbos Nature Reserve and transfer to Franschhoek Country House in the Western Cape Winelands. Spend the afternoon exploring the many world-class wine estates and impressive range of excellent restaurants or simply browse the quaint, upmarket boutiques strewn along the town’s lovely tree-lined avenues. Overnight: The Franschhoek Country House (Meals: Breakfast)
DAY 27: FRANSCHHOEK WINELANDS
Private Full Day Classic Winelands Tour
Depart the city for the Winelands in the nearby Boland Mountains for a leisurely exploration of historic towns, liquid delights, gastronomic wonders and home-grown hospitality. Wine estates visited will vary according to your preferences, but the tour generally includes the region’s major wine producing areas of Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschhoek, and there are chances aplenty en route for tastings of world-renowned reds and whites, as well as Cap Classiques - South Africa’s answer to Champagne. Lunch at one of the many classic, award-winning restaurants in the area (own account). Overnight: The Franschhoek Country House (Meals: Breakfast)
DAY 28: DEPARTURE
Private road transfer from Franschhoek Country House to Cape Town Airport. Departure – End of Services
PRICES STARTING FROM: £16.995 PER PERSON