BUCKET LIST DESTINATION!
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
TYPE: Classic
HOTELS: 4 star
GROUP: Max 12 guests
DURATION: 18 days (17 hotel nights)
January 18, 2026 (SOLD OUT)
February 1, 2026 (SOLD OUT)
February 18, 2026 (SOLD OUT)
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. If you’re unsure which route to take, Barry is happy to provide recommendations to help you find the best option based on your schedule, preferences, and travel style. The adventure of a lifetime is just a flight away!
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 enjoy a guided walking tour of Cape Town’s vibrant Waterfront District, ending with lunch at the upscale TIME OUT food market. In the afternoon, we'll board the 1 PM ferry to Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela spent 18 of his 27 years in prison. As the day winds down, we'll gather for a Welcome Dinner at one of the exceptional eateries in the Waterfront.
DAY 3: Table Mountain; Camp's Bay; Two Oceans Aquarium; Sunset Champagne Cruise (B)
We start 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. Then we're off to Camp’s Bay for lunch by the ocean. Back at the Waterfront, we’ll visit the Two Oceans Aquarium before ending the day with 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. Our first stop is the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where we’ll stroll the treetop Boomslang Canopy Walkway. Then it’s on to Hout Bay for a scenic boat trip to Seal Island and a relaxing lunch by the water. We return to the Waterfront via a scenic coastal drive, with the evening free to relax or explore.
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. Activities Included in City Pass
Cape of Good Hope walkway
DAY 6: Cape Point Tour & Transfer to Stellenbosch (B,D)
After checking out, we’ll head south along the iconic Chapman’s Peak Drive to the Cape of Good Hope, the southwestern tip of Africa known for its dramatic coastal scenery. On our way back, we’ll stop at Boulders Beach to see the colony of African penguins. In the late afternoon, we’ll arrive in Stellenbosch, check in to the Stellenbosch Hotel, and settle into the heart of South Africa’s renowned wine country.
DAY 7: Stellenbosch & Winery Tour (B,L)
We begin today with a walk through downtown Stellenbosch and a visit to the Stellenbosch Museum. After lunch, we’ll take a scenic driving tour around the city before heading to one of Stellenbosch’s renowned wineries. Guests will sample 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.
One of many Stellenbosch wine tastings
DAY 8: Franschoek & Winery Tour (B,L)
Today, we visit Franschhoek, South Africa’s culinary and wine capital. After a stroll through its charming main street, we’ll visit our first winery for a tasting experience. Next, we’ll enjoy lunch at Le Pommier, a lovely spot surrounded by vineyards. In the afternoon, we’ll tour a working winery where guests can see the winemaking process in action before returning to the hotel by mid-afternoon. The evening is free.
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 to see a colony of African penguins. Midday, we’ll stop for lunch at a local seaside restaurant. 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)
Today is all about choosing your own adventure in Stellenbosch! Barry will be available to help guests plan their ideal day, whether it’s a bike or e-bike tour, a round of golf, visiting more wineries, or a scenic ride through vineyards on the Wine Tram. In the evening, we’ll gather for a special "Farewell to the Western Cape" dinner at Helena’s, located 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 your flight to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport. Upon arrival, our local partner CD Tours will transfer you to Rio Vista Lodge (less than an hour away). Tonight guests can enjoy the lodge's peaceful atmosphere before tomorrow's early start. Swim in the pool, look for animals along the Crocodile River, and enjoy dinner at The Deck, the lodge's restaurant.
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 full-day African safari in Kruger National Park. You’ll set out early in open safari vehicles, catching the sunrise and spotting wildlife as the park comes to life. Along the way, stop for coffee at Afsaal Trader’s Rest and lunch at Skukuza, the park’s largest rest camp. After a final afternoon drive, return to Rio Vista Lodge to relax before dinner at The Deck.
DAY 13: Panorama Ridge & Blyde River Canyon (B,L,D)
Get ready for a rewarding day along the scenic Panorama Route, with a stop at Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest and most spectacular green canyons in the world. You’ll also visit Graskop Gorge, where a glass elevator takes you down into a lush rainforest. Optional ziplining and bungee jumping are available for adventure-seekers. After a full day, we’ll return to the lodge for dinner and a well-earned rest.
Blyde River Canyon
DAY 14: Free Time / Sunset Safari & Bush Braai (4 hr) (B,L,D)
After a relaxing day at the lodge, the adventure continues with a 4-hour sunset safari in Kruger National Park. As daylight fades, watch for nocturnal animals and active predators. The evening ends with one of two memorable dinners: a traditional bush braai (BBQ) in the park, hosted by National Park staff (weather and conditions permitting), or a delicious meal at one of the region’s top restaurants.
DAY 15: Chimp Eden & Sudwala Caves (B,L,D)
In the morning you’ll visit Jane Goodall's Chimp Eden, a sanctuary that provides care and rehabilitation for chimpanzees rescued from abuse, neglect, or illegal captivity. Afterward, you’ll head to the Sudwala Caves, some of the world’s oldest known caves, where you’ll enjoy lunch at the on-site restaurant before setting off on a guided underground tour. After an exciting day, you’ll return to the lodge for dinner.
eSwatini Traditional Festival
DAY 16: eSwatini (Swaziland) Tour (B,L,D)
Just beyond Kruger Park lies the independent kingdom of eSwatini (formerly Swaziland). This full-day tour explores Swazi culture with visits to Swazi Candles, known for handcrafted designs; Ngwenya Glass, where recycled glass becomes art; and Matenga Cultural Village, where we’ll experience traditional homes, customs, and a lively music and dance performance. We return to the lodge in the evening.
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. 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 flights home. Departure time from Rio Vista Lodge will depend on individual flight schedules, but we'll ensure everyone arrives at the airport with plenty of time to catch their flights. This marks the end of our tour. Safe travels!
DAY 19: Arrive in Toronto
Depending on individual flight itineraries, travelers will arrive back in Toronto in the morning, afternoon, or evening. We hope this journey has exceeded your expectations and left you with unforgettable memories and stories to share with your loved ones. We sincerely thank you for choosing to travel with Travelmaven. Last tip: ask whoever is picking you up at the airport to bring you a coat! Welcome home!
Relaxing in the Rio Vista Lodge pool