Road Scholar : Home
South Africa Wildlife Safari and the Garden Route

Program Number: 19398RJ
Start and End Dates:
10/24/2012 - 11/7/2012; 8/21/2013 - 9/4/2013; 9/27/2013 - 10/11/2013; 10/23/2013 - 11/6/2013; 1/22/2014 - 2/5/2014; 2/12/2014 - 2/26/2014; 3/5/2014 - 3/19/2014; 8/20/2014 - 9/3/2014; 9/26/2014 - 10/10/2014; 10/22/2014 - 11/5/2014;
Duration: 14 nights
Location: South Africa
Price starting at: $6,349.00 - Price may vary based on date, departure city
Program Type:
Meals: 35; 12 Breakfasts, 3 Brunches, 8 Lunches, 12 Dinners    
Meal Options: Vegetarian; Gluten Free    

Learn about the diverse beauty, turbulent past, dynamic present and hopeful future of South Africa on a journey from its capital to its coastlines. Search for the Big Five and more on game drives and walking safaris. Experience the cultures of Johannesburg and Cape Town. Journey along the coast and through fertile vineyards on the magnificent Garden Route.




Highlights

Gain an up-close perspective on elephants during a hands-on interaction with these gentle giants.
Revel in the scenic beauty of the Cape Winelands and sample some of the regions wines.
Learn about the unique fynbos environment of the Cape Floristic Region, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.



Activity Particulars

Bumpy, dusty game drives in open-air safari vehicles; require stamina, flexibility, stability. Walking up to two miles on paved, possibly uneven paths.



Program limited to 18 participants. Program #19499, Extension: Victoria Falls and Chobe, was created as an extension for this program and participants are encouraged to register for both. Some dates of program #19398 can be taken back-to-back with program #3645, Wild Africa: Botswana and Zambia.




Date Specific Information

8-21-2013, 9-27-2013, 10-23-2013

This departure spends 1 night in the Cape Winelands instead of 1 night in Oudtshoorn, and does not visit Mossel Bay but instead spends a full day in the Cape Winelands.



Itinerary Summary

Arrival Johannesburg, 2 nights; flight to Port Elizabeth, coach to the Garden Route, 2 nights; coach to Oudtshoorn, 1 night; coach to Hermanus, 1 night; coach to Cape Town, 3 nights; flight to Kruger Mpumalanga; coach to Manyeleti Game Reserve, 3 nights; flight to Johannesburg for departure; overnight flight.



Overnight flight from the U.S.A.
1 night
Arrival Johannesburg
2 nights

Visit Soweto and the Apartheid Museum to gain insight into South Africas tumultuous past, and hear a presentation on the countrys political history.



Flight to Port Elizabeth
Coach to the Garden Route
2 nights

On an eco-marine voyage, discover the rich bio-diversity of the waters just off the coast. At Featherbed Reserve, study the unique ecology of this beautiful reserve as you walk along the lagoon. Learn about elephant social structure and behavior during a hands-on interaction.



Coach to Oudtshoorn
1 night
Coach to Hermanus
1 night

Explore the role of early Portuguese explorers in the history of South Africa. Meet students at the Green Futures Horticulture and Life Skills College and learn what they are doing to help save South Africas unique fynbos vegetation. In the Cape Winelands, explore the historic town of Stellenbosch and enjoy a gourmet lunch at a local vineyard.



Coach to Cape Town
3 nights

During three days in vibrant Cape Town, discover the citys sights and sounds through visits to a variety of grassroots, sustainable projects that aim to help the most marginalized communities in the area. Also explore the natural wonders of Table Mountain, Cape Point, the Cape of Good Hope and Boulder Beach.



Flight to Kruger Mpumalanga
Coach to Manyeleti Game Reserve
3 nights
Flight to Johannesburg for departure
Overnight flight to the U.S.A.
1 night

Explore Manyeleti Game Reserve, part of the greater Kruger National Park area, with local experts who provide in-depth commentary on species sighted. Learn to identify the smaller creatures of the bush. Lectures here include lion social structure and behavior, the importance of termites to the local ecology, and the endangered rhinoceros.




South Africa

Released from prison in 1990 after 27 years, Nelson Mandela adopted a policy of reconciliation and negotiation that guided South Africas transition from apartheid into a true democracy. Awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1993, he became the first South African to win the presidency in fully representative democratic elections. Todays visitors find a kaleidoscopic of wildlife rivaled only by the cuisine, art and music of the nations diverse cultures.
Accommodations
Johannesburg: Villa-like hotel on a small lake. Garden Route: Unique log-built lodge in Knysna. Oudtshoorn: cozy guesthouse on a working ostrich farm. Hermanus: Harborside hotel. Cape Town: Waterfront hotel. Manyeleti Game Reserve: Luxury tented safari camp.

Road Scholar Instructors
These instructors are participating on at least one date of this program. Please note that changes may occur.
Mervyn Sparks
A dual citizen of England and South Africa, Mervyn Sparks left the field of financial management in 1995 to devote himself full time to helping visitors explore his adopted home of Cape Town. Since then, Mervyn has gained extensive experience of South Africas diverse peoples and environments during a period of historic transformation. He enjoys giving Road Scholar participants a thorough picture of modern-day life in Cape Town and the history behind it.
 
Meals and Lodgings
   Courtyard Hotel Eastgate
  Johannesburg, South Africa 2 nights
   Knysna Log Inn
  Garden Route, South Africa 2 nights
   Harbour House
  Hermanus, South Africa 1 night
   Oude Werf Hotel
  Cape Winelands, South Africa 1 night
   Bantry Bay Suites
  Cape Town, South Africa 3 nights
   Honeyguide Camp
  Manyeleti Game Reserve, South Africa 3 nights
 Courtyard Hotel Eastgate
Type: Hotel
  Description: The Courtyard Hotel, a beautifully appointed, Tuscan-themed hotel, is located on a small lake only 15 minutes from the Johannesburg International Airport in a very secure area. All studio suites have private, attached bathrooms, and either twin or double beds.
  Contact info: 9 Zulberg Close, Off Ernest Oppenheimer Road,
Bruma Lake
Johannesburg,  2100 South Africa
phone: +011-27-(0)11-622-8436
web: https://www.citylodge.co.za/cy2.php
  Room amenities: Large rooms include full bathrooms, seating/office area, television, patios overlooking the lake as well as coffee/tea making facilities, telephone, radio, hair dryer, TV, AC/heat, safe, fan, safe/lock box, and electrical outlets. Refrigerator, ironing board, and iron are available on request.
  Facility amenities: Amenities include a jacuzzi, steam room, sauna, pool (not heated), restaurant serving continental meals, bar, room service, and US currency exchange. Hotel staff can provide laundry service during week-days; guests can also do their laundry for a nominal fee. Guests can get 15 minutes wireless free per day on each of their personal wireless devices. After the 15 minute deal guests can purchase a voucher from the front desk or via credit card on the web link. The purchase will generate a username and password to be entered on screen by the guest. Alternatively, a PC computer and printer is available at the guest office but the 15 minute free wi-fi deal does not apply. The voucher prices vary by time: in summer 2012 30 minutes of wireless costs 30 South African Rand, 1 hour is 50 South African Rand, 2 hours is 90 South African Rand, 4 hours is 145 Rand, and 1 day is 195 Rand.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Additional nights prior: Contact Program Provider Please phone EXPLORE, Inc. at 888-596-6377 for more information.
  Check in time: 2:00 PM

 Knysna Log Inn
Type: Full Service Hotel
  Description: Built in 1998, the Knysna Log Inn provides accommodations influenced by the city's natural wonders- the sparkling Knysna Estuary and coastline as well as the breathless Outeniqua Mountains. The building itself mirrors its surroundings, using yellow wood logs throughout, slate flooring and natural river rocks as accents. Large stained-glass windows let in plentiful light which illuminates the automnal hues. The Log Inn is centrally located in the heart of Knysna, within walking distance of local amenities and the Knysna Quays.
  Contact info: 16 Gray Street
Knysna,  6571 South Africa
phone: +011-27-(0)44-382-5835
web: www.log-inn.co.za
  Room amenities: Each room is equipped with a deck, air-conditioning, ceiling fans, electronic safes, remote control televisions, direct dial telephones, hairdryers and tea/coffee making facilities, as well as full bathroom facilities.
  Facility amenities: The Log Inn boasts a year-round swimming pool surrounded by lush gardens, as well as a Jacuzzi and sauna. A restaurant and bar area are on-site. Fax services are available, as are laundry services, room service and an on-site curio shop (the Inn takes South African Rand and all major credit cards as payment). Wireless is available for your personal device in your room or the reception area. Ask for the password at the reception desk. This service is free of charge.
  Smoking allowed: No

 Harbour House
Type: Bed and Breakfast
  Description: The Harbour House is ideally situated at the edge of the Old Harbour in Hermanus, which has bustled with fishmongers and other colorful figures since the 1800s. Positioned only a few feet from the ocean's breath, the hotel makes for an ideal spot for keen whale watchers and is only a few minutes walk from the town center. Each of the spacious, modernly-decorated rooms are individually furnished to the highest standard with en-suite bathrooms, sitting area, balcony, direct satellite televison, kitchenette and contemporary art paintings. The hotel offers a large infinity pool overlooking Walker Bay, enticing meals at the hotel restaurant, as well as a wine bar featuring South African award-winners.
  Contact info: 18 Harbour Road
Hermanus,   South Africa
phone: +011-27-(0)28-312-1799
web: www.harbourhouse-hermanus.co.za
  Facility amenities: Guests can access the internet free of charge by using a computer available in the business center. To access the internet on your personal device you must pay for wi-fi via credit card; your card is charged according to the amount of time you spend on the internet. On your device, connect to the guest Wi-Fi, click on an internet browser, and enter your information on the payment landing page. Wireless is available in all rooms and hotel areas. For other services, such as laundry amenities and/or items, the Harbour House accepts South African Rand and all major credit cards.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Oude Werf Hotel
Type: Hotel
  Description: Established in 1802, Oude Werf is South Africas oldest and most historic hotel, and continues to be the leader in South African hospitality and fine dining. Located on the vibrant Church Street, in the historical core of Stellenbosch, Oude Werf retains the graceful and serene ambience of Georgian style throughout. Soft hues and antique furniture have been tastefully aligned with the comforts of modern living to create a calm haven from which to base your exploration of the Cape Winelands. The 1802 Restaurant is renowned for its traditional and international cuisine and boasts a wine list that will satisfy even the most sophisticated connoisseur. The site of Oude Werf has an interesting story to tell: beneath the floorboards of the Oude Werf kitchen lies the site of the Dutch colony's first church in South Africa, built in 1686 when Governor Simon van der Sel and the Reverend Johannes Overneij decided religious worship should be moved out of the colony ships.
  Contact info: 30 Church Street
Stellenbosch,  7600 South Africa
phone: +011-27-(0)21-887-4608
web: www.oudewerfhotel.co.za
  Room amenities: All rooms have full, en-suite bathroom facilities as well as bathrobe, bathroom amenities, hairdryer, direct satellite television, tea & coffee making facilities, mineral water, air conditioning, safe, telephone and a work desk with lamp.
  Facility amenities: Oude Werf Hotel is located within walking distance of many of Stellenbosch's historic landmarks. The hotel itself has a quiet, secluded courtyard that comprises a beautifully landscaped garden with a vine-covered courtyard and heated swimming pool. The Kromme Elleboog Lounge provides respite with a cozy fireplace and complimentary tea, coffee, and biscuits. The 1802 Restaurant is located on site, as well as a bar area. The hotel also has a separate conference room. Wi-fi is available all over the hotel property free of charge. Simply visit the Front Desk for the log in name and password and enter these details on your personal wireless device. For miscellaneous purchases, Oude Werf accepts South African Rand and all major credit cards.
  Smoking allowed: Yes

 Bantry Bay Suites
Type: Hotel
  Description: Located a short stroll from the sea and several sandy beaches, the Bantry Bay Suites lie nestled on the western side of Signal Hill, on a stretch of sea-facing land known as the platinum mile. The hotel is a short five minute drive from the lively Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, and a 10 minute drive to the central business district. The hotels 41 suites all offer spacious rooms with separate lounge and dining area. The hotel boasts a swimming pool, and bar and lounge area where light meals and drinks are served.
  Contact info: 8 Alexander Road
Bantry Bay
Cape Town,  8060 South Africa
phone: +27 (0)21 434 8448
web: bantrybay.ahagroup.co.za/
  Room amenities: The hotel consists of 41 suites. Each suite has living areas, a private bathroom with separate bath and shower, and a balcony or terrace. Suites also boast air conditioning, television, digital safe, hairdryer, mini bar (stocked on request) and coffee/tea making facilities
  Facility amenities: The hotels breakfast caf serves a scrumptious breakfast, and the bar and lounge offer light meals and drinks until 10pm daily; room service is available throughout the day. The swimming pool provides a great place to cool off, and the beach and ocean are just a short stroll away. Reception is open 24 hours a day, laundry facilities are available, and business services offered include: faxing, printing and photocopying. The reception desk sells vouchers for wireless access at this hotel. Voucher fees vary by length of connectivity. For example, 30 minutes of access is 30 South African Rand; 1 day of access is currently 195 South African Rand. After obtaining your voucher, use your username and password provided to connect to the internet. You may use your personal wireless device or use a computer at the hotel's business center. Note: the wireless signal is weaker on the fifth and final floor of the hotel
  Smoking allowed: No
  Elevators available: Yes

 Honeyguide Camp
Type: Lodge
  Description: Honeyguide's Mantobeni and Khoka Moya Camps are set among Tamboti trees on the banks of a flowing riverbed. Accommodation is in very spacious and comfortable East African-style tents which are raised on platforms and possess luxurious amenities. Honeyguide is the original tented safari - a real "Out of Africa" experience, with great comfort, excellent food, superb game viewing and outstanding service. The camps are housed in the Manyeleti ("The Place of the Stars" in the local language) Game Reserve with a team of reliable staff who will share the wonders of the reserve with you on safaris.
  Contact info: Manyeleti Game Reserve, Limpopo Province, PO Box 786064
Sandton,  2146 South Africa
phone: +011-27-(0)11-341-0282
web: www.honeyguidecamp.com
  Room amenities: Each spacious East African-style tent is built on a raised platform with approximately five steps leading up. There is a sitting area on the front end of the platform, including a comfortable couch, oversized chair and writing desk with lamp. The bed is in the center of the tent, with a dressing area just behind it. Unzip the back tent wall and there is a covered, walled bathroom area with shower, sunken bathtub, sink and conventional flush toilet. Each tent also has an electrical strip with common international plug configurations, so no plug adaptor or converter is needed here. A fan provides cool air, and hot water bottles are put in the beds if the temperature is chilly.
  Facility amenities: The main lodge area consists of a sitting area, library, bar, dining area, and swimming pool, all of which are open to the surrounding bush. The helpful lodge staff provide porterage, wake up calls, and complimentary laundry service. A telephone is available for guest use in the lodge main area. A safe in the manager office is available for guest use. A small curio shop is located on site, and accepts South African rand in cash as payment. The firepit allows guests to relish in the African sunset, warm up during cool weather, and enjoy refreshment with new friends. Lunch and dinner at Honeyguide include the freshest ingredientsfor truly sumptuous dishes, such as braised lamb shank or vegetable rolls with sweet pepper (you will be given a choice of plated main course with starters and deserts). In the morning you will be brought tea, coffee, and juice in your tent prior to your game drive; the game drive will include a stop for light refreshments, and once back at camp you are privy to a hearty breakfast. Wi-fi is available at Honeyguide Camps free of charge. Ask a ranger or a manager for the password to use on your personal device. The wireless works in both the common areas and tents. For miscellaneous purchases, Honeyguide accepts Visa and Mastercard in addition to South African rand.
  Smoking allowed: No
  Check out time: 11:00 AM


Travel Details
  Start of Program:
Dinner at 7:00pm on Oct 25 at the hotel in Johannesburg, South Africa You will be staying at Courtyard Hotel Eastgate that night.
  End of Program:
3:30pm on Nov 6 at the airport in Johannesburg, South Africa following the arrival of the flight from Hoedspruit You will be staying at Honeyguide Camp the night before.
  Required documents:
The Road Scholar Health & Safety Form is required. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months past trip return date; US passport holders need a minimum of 4 blank visa pages (not amendment/endorsement pages at back), and Canadian citizens need a minimum of 6 blank visa pages. No visa necessary for South Africa. Signed liability waiver required for participation.
  Parking availability:
None needed.
Transportation (For Independent Travelers)
To Start of Program
  Location:  Johannesburg
  Nearest city or town:  Johannesburg
  Nearest highway: R21
  Nearest airport:  Johannesburg International Airport
  Transportation to site: The arrival transfer from O.R. Tambo airport to the first hotel in Johannesburg is provided by hired coach; transfer time approximately 20 minutes. Typically only one transfer is provided, meeting SAA #208 from Washington-DC which arrives in the early evening. Taxis are available but not recommended for safety reasons; estimated taxi fare is ZAR 400. The Courtyard Hotel Eastgate also provides an airport shuttle service but is not always reliable as far as showing up when scheduled; approximate price ZAR 250 per person. Independent travelers are welcome to join the scheduled group transfer but Program Provider needs to know travel details in advance for head-count purposes. Program Provider can also assist in arranging a separate airport transfer if arriving at a different time from the group flight.
  From End of Program
  Location:  At Home
  Transportation from site: Group transfer from the last location to the Hoedspruit airport included for everyone. The flight from Hoedspruit to Johannesburg is also included in the program price. Upon arrival in Johannesburg you connect to international departures; no further ground transfers are needed unless ongoing travel is planned. Program Provider can help with ongoing travel arrangements if needed.
Elevation Note: Johannesburg is at 5,575 feet; everywhere else is under 3000 ft.

Equipment Requirements: Suggested equipment: binoculars, camera, flashlight.
The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.


Daily Schedule

Day 1: Departures
(Wednesday, October 24)
   
 Afternoon: Depart the U.S. on an overnight flight to Johannesburg, South Africa.

Day 2: Arrivals
(Thursday, October 25)
   
 Afternoon: Arrive Johannesburg where you clear Customs and are met and transferred 20 minutes to the Courtyard Hotel. Enjoy the complimentary beverages and snacks during happy hour in the main lounge of the hotel.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
 Evening: Orientation session.
   
Accommodations: Courtyard Hotel Eastgate
Meals Included: Dinner

Day 3: Soweto/ Apartheid Museum
(Friday, October 26)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: This morning, you have a tour of Soweto (SOuth WEstern TOwnship), the largest black residential area in South Africa. This city within a city consists of 50 suburbs, or sections, and essentially acts as a labor reservoir for the greater metropolitan area of the Witwatersrand. In many ways, the story of Soweto is the story of South Africa. The tour route takes you to all the major points of interest, such as Chris Hani Baragwanath Hospital, Baragwanath taxi rank, Freedom Square, and Hector Peterson Memorial. Overview of South Africa and Apartheid.
 Lunch: Lunch at a local restaurant in Soweto.
 Afternoon: After lunch, transfer to the award winning and internationally acclaimed Apartheid Museum, where you walk through the museum with a local guide. This beautiful museum gives a balanced account of 20th century South Africa. It recounts the political upheavals beginning in the last century and moves on to the transition from a racist state into the new era of hope and freedom as a democracy.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Courtyard Hotel Eastgate
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 4: Fly to Garden Route/ Marine Life Cruise
(Saturday, October 27)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Transfer to the Johannesburg airport where you board a commercial flight to Port Elizabeth, along the southern coast. In Port Elizabeth, board your coach and head west along the coast to Plettenberg Bay.
 Lunch: Packed lunch provided, eaten at a scenic spot along the way.
 Afternoon: In Plettenberg Bay, you embark on an eco-marine cruise to observe and learn about dolphins, sharks, whales (August to November departures), seals and pelagic birds. The waters outside of Plettenberg Bay are rich in marine life, including: Bottlenose dolphins, Common dolphins, Southern Right dolphins, the rare Indo-Pacific humpback dolphins, Brydes whales, Humpback whales (in season), Cape Fur seals, several species of shark and seabirds. You also observe and discuss the unique geology of the area. Lecture on marine biology. After the cruise, continue heading west to Knysna.
 Dinner: At the hotel in Knysna.
 Evening: Stroll through the streets of Knysna or take a walk down to the Knysna Quays.
   
Accommodations: Knysna Log Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 5: Featherbed Nature Reserve/ Knysna Elephant Park
(Sunday, October 28)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: The Featherbed Nature Reserve, a unique 370 acre private reserve which encompasses the Western Head of Knysna, is also one of South Africas premier Natural Heritage Sites. The reserve is accessed by a ferry ride across the Knysna Lagoon. Once there, you are driven up to the overlook as your guide discusses the unique ecology of the reserve (20 minutes); magnificent views over the coastline and estuary are seen from here. From the overlook, an optional 1.5 mile guided walk through the forest, onto the cliffs, and into the caves and along the spectacular coastline is available (note: this hike is strenuous and on uneven terrain with no handholds; you must be agile and wear shoes with good gripping soles). As another option, you can be driven back down to the jetty, thus avoiding the walk.
 Lunch: Buffet picnic lunch under the milkwood trees.
 Afternoon: This afternoon you visit the Knysna Elephant Park, which provides a safe home for elephants in need of one. The park provides a controlled, free-range environment, meaning the elephants are free to graze and wander as they would in the wild, but there are trained handlers around since the elephants live, and interact, with humans on a daily basis. After a briefing by one of the local guides, you are driven through the fields to the elephants. Here you have the opportunity to touch, feed, and photograph the elephants without the hindrances of barriers or fences. A local specialist discusses elephant behavior, anatomy and social structure as you interact with the gentle giants. You also have the chance to discuss the plight of the nearby Knysna Forest Elephants, and how they relate to elephants in other parts of Africa.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
 Evening: Time at leisure to relax or explore the streets of Knysna on your own.
   
Accommodations: Knysna Log Inn
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 6: Grootbos Nature Reserve/ Fynbos
(Monday, October 29)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Depart Knysna early in the morning and continue west through the scenic natural environment of the Wilderness Lakes area to Mossel Bay. Spend the remainder of the morning traveling through the rolling farm lands of the Overberg, arriving at Grootbos Reserve in time for lunch.
 Lunch: At Grootbos, you enjoy fresh fish, succulent meats, and home-grown vegetables, all enhanced with flavors from the flourishing herb garden. Prepared with innovative flair, presented with brilliance and color, and served in a restaurant with unbeatable views, a Grootbos meal is an unbeatable experience.
 Afternoon: You take a walk through Grootbos ancient milkwood forest, where thousand-year old trees send exploratory branches in search of sunlight, before continuing on to visit the Green Futures Horticulture and Life Skills College. The Green Futures College was founded by Grootbos in order to conserve the unique biodiversity of the area. The college trains unemployed and unskilled people from the surrounding villages in the science of horticulture, specifically in the preservation of fynbos vegetation. You meet some of these students and plant a tree with the group before departing. Lecture on the unique fynbos given by your group leader. Afterward, you transfer a short distance to Hermanus for your overnight stay.
 Dinner: At a local restaurant in Hermanus.
   
Accommodations: Harbour House
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 7: Cape Wine Region
(Tuesday, October 30)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Transfer to the historic town of Stellenbosch where you have time to explore on your own. Many of the town's historical landmarks are within easy walking distance of the town center. Depart in the late morning for Moreson's Bread & Wine, the award-winning restaurant where lunch is taken today.
 Lunch: At Moresons Bread & Wine. Bread & Wine exudes an old world charm, and is a character-filled, rustic restaurant that has won numerous accolades for its honest food. The menu changes seasonally and is inspired by the variety of ingredients available locally.
 Afternoon: After lunch, head through the scenic countryside to Franschhoek, where you have a bit of time to explore this charming little town on your own. End the afternoon at a local winery for a wine and chocolate pairing. Lecture on the area's architecture, history and viniculture.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Oude Werf Hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 8: Table Mountain/ Kirstenbosch Gardens
(Wednesday, October 31)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Depart towards Cape Town and head straight to Table Mountain. Take a cable car ride up the steep granite slopes of Table Mountain (weather permitting) to see the splendid views of the city and peninsula; it is perhaps one of the most magnificent views in the southern hemisphere. After descending Table Mountain, you have a city orientation which takes you to the historic Company Gardens, the colorful Bo Kaap community, and the District 6 area which remains a poignant example of the forced-removal era of apartheid. Discussion on the history of Cape Town and the varied cultures that helped to settle it.
 Lunch: At Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens.
 Afternoon: After lunch, you have a guided walk through the Kirstenbosch Gardens where your local guide explains the unique fynbos. Kirstenbosch is acclaimed as one of the greatest botanic gardens in the world. Few gardens can match the sheer grandeur of its setting, against the eastern slopes of Table Mountain. Kirstenbosch was established in 1913 to promote, conserve and display the extraordinarily rich and diverse flora of southern Africa, and it was the first botanic garden in the world to be devoted to a country?s indigenous flora. On display in the gardens is a wide variety of the unique Cape Floristic Region plant life, as well as plants from all the diverse regions of southern Africa; there are over 7,000 species in cultivation at Kirstenbosch, including many that are rare and threatened. In 2004, the Cape Floristic Region, including Kirstenbosch, was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Following your walk through the gardens, drive to your hotel which overlooks the ocean.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Bantry Bay Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 9: Cape Peninsula/ Boulders Beach
(Thursday, November 1)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: After breakfast at the hotel, depart toward Cape Point via the coastal route passing through Camps Bay (South Africas world famous beach resort), past the Twelve Apostle Range, through Hout Bay and along Chapmans Peak Drive, one of the most spectacular coastal roads to be found in Africa. Arrive at the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. Cape Point, the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, is one of the worlds most beautiful places a stretch of rocky mountain jutting southward into the sea. Here you find a myriad of pristine beaches, sheltered bays and coves, as well as a rich array of indigenous flora. The fynbos reserve (a unique vegetation type of the Cape Floral Kingdom) is home to a variety of wildlife and bird species. Whales (dependant on season), penguins and seals may be spotted from this point.
 Lunch: At a local restaurant overlooking the sea.
 Afternoon: Stop off at Boulders Beach to view the resident African penguin colony. Nestled in a sheltered cove between Simon's Town and Cape Point, Boulders has become world famous for its thriving colony of African penguins and magnificent wind-sheltered beaches. Boulders is one of the few sites where this vulnerable bird (Spheniscus demersus) can be observed at close range, wandering freely in a protected environment. Lecture: African (Jackass) Penguins. Head back to the hotel for the late afternoon at leisure.
 Dinner: At the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Bantry Bay Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 10: Interaction with Township Locals/ Free Time
(Friday, November 2)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Visit several grassroots, community-based projects through Uthando South Africa, a non-profit organization that gives back to the community. Visits to these projects are done on a non-commercialized, authentic and interactive basis with a view to a genuine and meaningful interaction. Projects visited may include (but are not limited to): Volcano Arts Project, founded by Mandlesizwe Lufele and other concerned community youths who are committed to community development and empowerment through arts, culture and life skills training; Hout Bay Music Project or Jikeleza Dance Project, both of which aim to develop self-confidence, life skills and performance skills in the children within the projects; Abalimi Bezekhaya (the Planters of the Home), a non-profit organization working to improve sustainable food production and environmental greening amongst the poor in Cape Town; Neighbourhood Old Age Home (NOAH), where you spend some time with a vibrant group of oldies during one of their social gatherings; Home from Home, which provides foster care for orphans, abandoned and vulnerable children; or Mandela Park Mosaics, T-Bag Designs, and Iziko Lo Lwazi, community-based initiatives where beauty is created out of every day objects. Exact projects visited to be determined.
 Lunch: On your own to explore local fare.
 Afternoon: Free time with many optional activities to choose from.
 Dinner: Light dinner at the hotel.
   
Accommodations: Bantry Bay Suites
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Day 11: Transfer to Manyeleti Game Reserve/ Game Drive
(Saturday, November 3)
   
 Breakfast: At the hotel.
 Morning: Transfer to the Cape Town airport where you board your commercial flight to Kruger-Mpumalanga Airport in the greater Kruger National Park area.
 Lunch: Packed lunch provided.
 Afternoon: Upon arrival in the early afternoon, you are met and transferred by minivan approximately two hours to Honeyguide Mantobeni Camp in Manyeleti Game Reserve. Manyeleti Game Reserve occupies a prime position on the western border of the world-renowned Kruger National Park. Manyeleti may be explored in open game viewing vehicles, or on foot under the guidance of armed and experienced guides. The Reserve boasts a large number of lion, buffalo, rhino, cheetah, leopard, wild dog, zebra, giraffe, a healthy elephant and hippo population, and a variety of antelope species as well as prolific bird life. Arrive Mantobeni Camp where you have time to settle in before tea and snacks are served. During tea time, your group leader gives a lecture on lion social structure and behavior. Afterwards, embark on your first game drive within Manyeleti in search of the Big Five and other wildlife resident in the Reserve. Sundowner drinks and snacks are served at a scenic spot as you watch the sunset.
 Dinner: Enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by the resident chef.
 Evening: Spend the evening stargazing in Manyeleti, which means "place of the stars" in Shangaan.
   
Accommodations: Honeyguide Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Day 12: Game Drive/ Termites
(Sunday, November 4)
   
 Breakfast: Wake to the sound of beating drums followed by early morning coffee/tea served in the tents.
 Morning: Morning game drive in search of the Big Five.
 Brunch: A delicious and filling brunch is served following the morning game drive. Afterwards, you can relax at the pool, participate in a short foot safari with one of the guides or view passing game at the waterhole next to the camp. On the foot safari you learn to identify tracks, spoor, and other signs to discern the small things of the bush.
 Afternoon: Afternoon tea and snacks are served, during which time your group leader gives a lecture on termites and their importance to the ecology of the area. Following tea, the evening safari departs; explore the area with in-depth interpretation from your guides. Sundowners at a scenic spot.
 Dinner: Enjoy a gourmet meal prepared by the resident chef.
 Evening: Spend the evening in the Boma around the fire, in discussion with your fellow travelers.
   
Accommodations: Honeyguide Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner

Day 13: Game Drive/ Rhinoceros
(Monday, November 5)
   
 Breakfast: Wake to the sound of beating drums followed by early morning coffee/tea served in the tents.
 Morning: Morning game drive in search of animals that may have eluded you so far.
 Brunch: Following the morning game drive, a filling brunch is served back at camp. After brunch, you have time at leisure during the heat of the day. A short foot safari with one of the local guides is offered today, too, where you can learn to identify the smaller things of the bush.
 Afternoon: Over afternoon tea, your group leader gives a lecture on rhinoceros. Following tea time, you embark on the last evening safari of the program. Cherish your last sundowners at a scenic spot.
 Dinner: Dinner at camp.
 Evening: Spend the evening recounting tales from the program with your fellow travelers.
   
Accommodations: Honeyguide Camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Brunch, Dinner

Day 14: Game Drive/ Departure
(Tuesday, November 6)
   
 Breakfast: Wake to the sound of beating drums followed by early morning coffee/tea served in the tents.
 Morning: One last game drive within the Reserve in search of animals you may not have seen thus far.
 Brunch: A filling brunch is served, after which you have time to pack.
 Afternoon: You are transferred approximately one hour to Hoedspruit airport, where you board your commercial flight to Johannesburg. In Johannesburg, you connect to your international, overnight flight home or the start of optional extension program #19499, "Extension: Victoria Falls and Chobe."
   
Meals Included: Breakfast, Brunch

Day 15: Arrive Home
(Wednesday, November 7)
   
 Morning: Early morning arrivals back in the USA and Canada.

Free Time Opportunities
  
  Cape Town Robben Island
Starting from the V&A Waterfront, the Robben Island ferry takes you out to the island. Robben Island, just seven miles off the Cape Town coast, was for nearly 400 years a place of banishment, exile, isolation and imprisonment. It was here that rulers sent those they regarded as political troublemakers, social outcasts and the unwanted of society. During apartheid years, Robben Island became internationally known for its institutional brutality. The duty of those who ran the island and its prison was to isolate opponents of apartheid and to crush their morale. This is where Nelson Mandela spent most of his 27 years in prison. From the island, enjoy spectacular views of the Cape. Tickets can be booked yourself online, or the Program Provider is happy to book the tour on your behalf. Current price is approximately $30 per person. For additional information, visit www.robben-island.org.za/
  South African Museum & District Six
Visit the South African Museum which houses a superb collection of Bushman rock paintings and extensive displays on the Stone Age peoples who once inhabited the Cape. Also visit the District 6 museum, which is home to an emotional collection of art and memories from the district's glory days before the neighborhood was leveled by the apartheid government.
  Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
Explore the lively shopping, restaurants and entertainment on the waterfront.
  various museums
Cape Town has a variety of natural history, art and social history museums in town. Visit the website for more information on the numerous museums to choose from. Adult tickets are approximately $5. For additional information, visit www.iziko.org.za/iziko/izihome.html
Important information about your itinerary: Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy and completeness of the information featured on this website. Itineraries are based on our best information at this time. Circumstances beyond our control may require us to adjust itineraries or other details. We regret any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding. Information will be sent to you from your Program Provider approximately three weeks prior to the program start date. The prices listed for commercial services and facilities that are not included in the program cost, such as airport shuttles or extra nights lodging, are subject to change without notice. Since Road Scholar cannot guarantee the accuracy of these prices, we strongly suggest contacting the companies directly for the most up-to-date information.

Suggested Reading List


Adventuring in Southern Afica


Author: Allen Bechky


Description: This comprehensive guide to game parks throughout Southern Africa includes an overview of the region, tips on watching wildlife and good descriptive information on each park or nature reserve.



Cape Town, A Lonely Planet City Guide


Author: John A. Murray


Description: A practical guide to the city and surroundings, featuring suggested walks, excursions and attractions. This surprisingly complete book also includes color photographs and a map.



Exploration of Africa, From Cairo to the Cape


Author: Ann Hugon


Description: This jewel of a book chronicles 19th century exploration of Africa with hundreds of contemporary paintings and prints, brief chapters on the expeditions and a very useful chronology.



Long Walk to Freedom


Author: Nelson Mandela


Description: An unpretentious tale of an extraordinary life. Mandela recounts the circumstances of his imprisonment and ultimately his successful drive to end Apartheid.



Newmans Birds of Southern Africa


Author: Kenneth Newman


Description: This classic field guide features hundreds of color plates, a comprehensive checklist and information on habitat and distribution.



Silent Thunder, In the Presence of Elephants


Author: Katy Payne


Description: In this memoir, Katy Payne relates stories of research, discovery and conservation in Africa. An acoustic biologist, Payne has worked on communication among elephant populations at Amboseli National Park, Etosha and Sengwa.



Southern Africa Wildlife, A Visitor's Guide


Author: Mike Unwin


Description: A popular, photographic guide to the mammals, birds, reptiles and habitats south of the Zambezi. With 300 color photographs and illuminating text.



Southern, Central, and East African Mammals


Author: Chris and Tilde Stuart


Description: A compact guide to 152 mammals.



The Kingdon Field Guide to African Mammals


Author: Jonathan Kingdon


Description: The most complete African mammal guide available.



The Myth of Wild Africa


Author: Jonathan Adams, Thomas McShane


Description: A no-holds-barred attack on old-style conservation in Africa, provocative and dead-on. The authors explore the fallacy of an untouched continent where animals roam freely in sanctuaries.



The No. 1 Ladies Detective Agency


Author: Alexander McCall Smith


Description: McCall Smiths detective, Mma Ramotswe, makes her debut. A pleasure in every respect, this novel not really a mystery evokes the cultures, customs and diverse landscapes of Botswana.



The Safari Companion


Author: Richard Estes


Description: An encyclopedic guide to the behavior of Africas mammals by a noted scientist.



The Scramble for Africa


Author: Thomas Pakenham


Description: A well-written, meticulously researched history of the Victorian land grab in Africa. The book includes especially good portraits of the egomaniacal personalities who overran the continent.





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