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Who hasn't dreamt of riding across the African savannah in an open vehicle, checking out the elephants, rhinos, giraffes, and a few big cats? I think everyone had this dream when they were young, but for many Canadians, an African safari has always seemed too far, too expensive, too dangerous, or just too much to seriously contemplate. But that's not true! An African safari is within your reach, and TravelMaven can make your dream a reality!
South Africa is a huge place, bigger than Germany, France and Italy combined. While many tours set an aggressive pace based on lots of stops and multiple short stays, TravelMaven takes a different approach by simply cherrypicking the 'best of the best'.
A few years ago we spent a lot of time figuring out how to assemble a top-notch program that covers the best in the Western Cape and Kruger regions with just two domestic flights and three hotels, spending 5 nights in Cape Town, 5 nights in Stellenbosch and 7 nights at Kruger. By staying in only 3 hotels, we avoid the wasted time of constantly packing and unpacking.
We also limit each group to 12 guests. That means we can walk down city streets together, blend into crowds in restaurants, and get around more efficiently than with a large group.
In terms of trans-Atlantic flights, we don't include them with our Land Package because there are many ways to get from Canada to South Africa, and many people want to add a pit-stop somewhere or use their loyalty points. In most cases, overnight flights arrive in Cape Town the day after departing Toronto. If you arrive on the designated day, Barry will be at Cape Town Airport to meet you and bring you to our hotel.
One advantage of staying 5 nights at the first hotel is it allows guests to recover from jet-lag and the fatigue of the journey. It's also why you won't need to arrive early. In fact, we recommend against it. That's because Africa isn't North America or Europe. If you've never been here before, it's best if you start with someone familiar with this region. (Having said that, adding extra days at the end of your tour as this is a wonderful place, as you'll be able to look after yourself after being with us for a couple of weeks.)
In terms of meals, we've included those that make sense, while leaving the rest for guests to choose on their own. We find many guests enjoy being able to pick where they eat. Fortunately, South African prices are very reasonable. Lunch can be found for $10-20, dinner for $20-40, and a beer or glass of wine is $3-8. As a result, guests should budget about $300 for meals not included over the 16 days.
So, if visiting South Africa is on your bucket list, maybe you should join us. Every year we get rave reviews from clients who love this country and are happy to be part of our small groups.
PLEASE NOTE: Due to limited hotel availability during peak season, some tours begin in Cape Town, folllowed by Stellenbosch. Others begin in Stellenbosch, followed by Cape Town. Both options work equally well and offer the same program. In all cases, Kruger is the 3rd stop.
TOUR DETAILS
LAND PACKAGE: C$8,280
SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: C$1,860
January 18, 2026 (8 available spots)
February 1, 2026 (for Rotarians only)
February 7, 2026 (subject to availability)
February 18, 2026 (SOLD OUT)
HOTELS: 4 star
GROUP: Max 12 guests
DURATION: 18 days (17 hotel nights)
Tours begin in Cape Town & end in Johannesburg
DAILY AGENDA (2026)
Each day's title includes the initials of the meals provided: B for breakfast, L for lunch, and D for dinner.
DAY 0: Depart Toronto
Your South African adventure begins today! There are multiple flight options from Toronto to Cape Town, all requiring a connection somewhere.
DAY 1: Arrive in Cape Town
Welcome to Cape Town! No matter what time you arrive, Barry will be there to greet you at the airport and take you to the Portswood Hotel, perfectly located in the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront district. If you arrive early enough, take advantage of the hotel’s pool or enjoy a meal at its in-house restaurant as you settle into this world-class city.
TravelMaven guests before Table Mountain.
DAY 2: Orientation Walk; Robben Island, Welcome Dinner (B,D)
After breakfast, we'll set out on a guided walking tour of the lively Waterfront District, taking in its stunning harbor views and vibrant atmosphere. Our stroll concludes with lunch at the upscale TIME OUT food market, where you can sample a variety of delicious local and international dishes. In the afternoon, we'll board the 1 PM ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison. This powerful visit offers a deep and moving insight into South Africa’s history. As the day winds down, we'll gather for a Welcome Dinner at one of the exceptional South African eateries in the Waterfront, the perfect way to toast the start of our adventure together.
DAY 3: Table Mountain; Camp's Bay; Two Oceans Aquarium; Sunset Champagne Cruise (B)
We kick off the day with a visit to Table Mountain, one of Cape Town’s must-see attractions. A scenic cable car ride takes us to the summit, where breathtaking panoramic views stretch across the city and coastline. Next, we head to Camp’s Bay for a relaxing lunch overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Then, back at the Waterfront, we’ll explore the Two Oceans Aquarium, home to fascinating marine life. After a quick dinner, we’ll set out on a Sunset Champagne Cruise from the main harbour.
Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.
DAY 4: Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens; Hout Bay; Seal Island (B)
Today, we explore the Western Cape using City Sightseeing’s excellent hop-on hop-off bus network, making it easy to experience the region’s top highlights. Our first stop is the stunning Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, home to a vast collection of indigenous plants. Here, we’ll walk the Boomslang Canopy Walkway, a winding, elevated bridge that snakes through the treetops, offering views of the mountains and gardens below. Next, we head to Hout Bay for an exciting boat trip to Seal Island, cruising across the bay’s lively waters to see a colony of Cape fur seals in their natural habitat. After lunch in Hout Bay, we take the scenic coastal route back to the Waterfront. The evening is free time to relax or explore on your own.
DAY 5: FREE DAY in Cape Town (B)
Free days are a great opportunity for guests to tailor their experience, choosing activities that match their interests and energy levels. With your provided City Sightseeing bus pass and City Pass, you have the flexibility to explore many attractions. You might visit top attractions like the District Six Museum, browse local art galleries, or take a sightseeing boat tour of Table Bay. Whether you want to fit in more sightseeing or take a relaxed day at a café or the beach, the choice is yours.
Cape of Good Hope walkway
DAY 6: Cape Point Tour & Transfer to Stellenbosch (B,D)
After checking out of the hotel, we’ll head south along the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive, a winding coastal route with dramatic ocean views. Our destination is the Cape of Good Hope, the most southwestern point in Africa and a legendary coastal headland that played a vital role in the age of exploration. Here, we’ll visit the Cape Point Lighthouse, perched high above the sea with stunning views. On our way back, we’ll stop at Boulders Beach to see the colony of African penguins up close. In the late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Stellenbosch, where guests will check in to the Stellenbosch Hotel and settle into South Africa’s renowned wine country.
DAY 7: Stellenbosch & Winery Tour (B,L)
We begin today with a walk through downtown Stellenbosch, exploring its charming streets lined with Cape Dutch architecture, followed by a visit to the Stellenbosch Museum to learn about the town’s rich history. After lunch, we’ll take a scenic driving tour around the city before heading to one of Stellenbosch’s renowned wineries for a memorable tasting experience. Guests will sample exceptional local wines while taking in the stunning vineyard scenery. After returning to the hotel in the late afternoon, guests will have a free evening to relax or explore more of Stellenbosch.
One of many Stellenbosch wine tastings
DAY 8: Franschoek & Winery Tour (B,L)
Today, we head to the picturesque town of Franschhoek, known as the culinary and wine capital of South Africa. After a leisurely stroll down its charming main street, we’ll visit our first winery for a tasting experience, sampling some of the region’s finest wines. Next, we’ll enjoy lunch at Le Pommier, a lovely spot surrounded by vineyards. In the afternoon, we’ll visit a working winery, where guests can see the winemaking process in action before returning to the hotel by mid-afternoon. Guests have a free evening.
DAY 9: HermanusTour (B,L)
After breakfast, we’ll make our way to Hermanus, a coastal town along the Indian Ocean, known for its dramatic cliffs and rich marine life. We’ll spend the day exploring the region, including a visit to Betty’s Bay, where guests can watch a thriving colony of African penguins waddling along the shore. Midday, we’ll stop for lunch at a local restaurant, enjoying the relaxed seaside atmosphere before continuing our journey. We return to the hotel in the late afternoon, and the evening is free time to spend as you choose.
Hermanus
DAY 10: A-LA-CARTE DAY in Stellenbosch (B,D)
With so much to see and do in Stellenbosch, today is all about choosing your own adventure! Barry will be available to help guests plan their ideal day, whether that means taking a bike or e-bike tour, playing a round of golf, visiting more wineries, or hopping on the charming Wine Tram for a scenic ride through the vineyards. In the evening, we’ll come together for a special "Farewell to the Western Cape" dinner at Helena’s, a fine dining experience set in the elegant five-star Coopmanhuijs Hotel.
DAY 11: Fly Cape Town to Kruger (B,D)
After checking out, you’ll transfer to Cape Town Airport for a two-hour direct flight to Mpumalanga Kruger Airport, bringing you one step closer to your exciting safari adventures. Upon arrival, Debbie from CD Tours, your local Tour Director, will meet you and take you to Rio Vista Lodge for check-in. Situated on the banks of the Crocodile River, the lodge offers stunning views where you may even spot elephants, hippos, and other wildlife right from the property. In the evening, enjoy dinner at The Deck, the lodge’s restaurant, which offers a great variety of delicious dishes. The rest of the evening is free to enjoy the lodge’s pool, take in the river views, and rest before an early start tomorrow.
On safari in Kruger National Park
DAY 12: Kruger Safari (10 hr) (B,D)
Today is the day many have dreamed of for a lifetime—a true African safari in Kruger National Park. You’ll set out early in open safari vehicles, catching the sunrise as the park awakens and wildlife becomes active in the cool morning air. This 10-hour safari takes you deep into Kruger, offering the chance to spot the Big Five and countless other species. Mid-morning, you'll pause for breakfast at a rest stop, and later stop for lunch at Skukuza, the park’s largest rest camp, before heading back out for a final drive. Returning to Rio Vista Lodge in the mid-afternoon, you’ll have time to relax before enjoying dinner at The Deck.
DAY 13: Panorama Ridge & Blyde River Canyon (B,L,D)
Get ready for another long but rewarding day as you travel north along the famous Panorama Route, one of South Africa’s most scenic drives. Along the way, you’ll stop at some of the route’s most spectacular viewpoints, including Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest and most stunning canyons in the world. The journey also includes a visit to Graskop Gorge, where you’ll experience The Drop Zone, a glass elevator that descends 51 meters (167 feet) down the face of the gorge. At the bottom, you’ll step into a micro-rainforest, where a network of trails winds through the dense vegetation, allowing you to explore this unique ecosystem up close. After a full day of exploring, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner.
Blyde River Canyon
DAY 14: Free Time / Sunset Safari & Bush Braai (4 hr) (B,L,D)
After a relaxed day spent enjoying the lodge’s pool and surroundings, the adventure continues in the late afternoon with a sunset safari in Kruger National Park. As the sun sets and the park transforms, you’ll have the chance to see nocturnal wildlife emerging and predators becoming more active in the fading light. The evening is set to end with a bush braai (BBQ)—a truly special experience deep within the park, hosted by National Park staff under the stars. However, as the bush braai is not always available, an equally fantastic alternative will be a dinner at one of the area’s best restaurants, offering a wonderful meal in a beautiful setting. No matter which option is available, it will be an unforgettable evening in the Kruger region.
DAY 15: Chimp Eden & Sudwala Caves (B,L,D)
The day begins with a visit to Chimp Eden, a sanctuary operated by the Jane Goodall Foundation. This incredible facility provides a safe haven for rescued and rehabilitated chimpanzees, many of whom were abused or displaced. As you observe them in their forested enclosures, you’ll learn about their stories and the ongoing conservation efforts that help protect them. Afterward, you’ll head to the Sudwala Caves, the world’s oldest known caves, where you’ll enjoy lunch at the on-site restaurant before setting off on a guided underground tour. As you walk through the ancient rock formations, you’ll discover the cave’s fascinating history and remarkable geology. After an exciting day, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner and a relaxing evening.
eSwatini Traditional Festival
DAY 16: Swaziland Tour (B,L,D)
Just beyond Kruger National Park lies the independent kingdom of eSwatini (formerly Swaziland). This full-day tour offers a fascinating look at Swazi traditions through three unique experiences. At Swazi Candles, we’ll visit a candle-making factory known for its beautiful handcrafted designs, with other local artists and a café on-site. At Ngwenya Glass, we’ll watch artisans transform 100% recycled glass into stunning new creations and explore the shop for unique souvenirs. Finally, at Matenga Cultural Village, we’ll step into traditional Swazi homes, learn about local customs, and enjoy a performance of Swazi music and dance. After a full day of exploration, we return to the lodge.
DAY 17: Kruger Safari (6 hr) (B,D)
Today marks the final safari of the tour, a 6-hour game drive offering one last chance to take in the beauty of Kruger National Park. Our expert guides can adjust the route based on previous sightings, giving guests one last opportunity to search for any wildlife they may not have seen yet. In the evening, enjoy your last dinner at The Deck and take the opportunity to try something new from its extensive menu.
Elephants in Kruger National Park
DAY 18: Transfer to Airport; fly to Toronto (B,L)
After breakfast and check-out, guests will be transferred to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport for a short flight to Johannesburg, where they will connect to their international flight home. Departure time from Rio Vista Lodge will depend on flight schedules. This marks the end of our tour. Safe travels!
DAY 19: Arrive in Toronto
Depending on their flight plan, travelers arrive back in Toronto in the morning, afternoon, or evening. Welcome home!
Relaxing in the Rio Vista Lodge pool