Cape Town, Safari, and Victoria Falls Trip

Set sail aboard Ra-Ikane, a luxury monohull teak boat cruising the tranquil waters of the upper Zambezi. Inspired by the famed explorer David Livingstone and his boat journey, and named after one of his guides, Ra-Ikane boasts a fleet of three classic vessels honoring the heritage of yesteryear exploration in the region. Relive their historical journey on your intimate sunset cruise down the mighty river flanked by Zambezi National Park. Sit back and cherish your ride as the boat circles the river islands, meandering through hidden coves. You can observe numerous African wildlife along the river banks, and sight a plethora of exotic birds and micro life. Crocodiles and hippos bask in shallow waters, and herds of elephants amble down riverine forests. Savor an assortment of sumptuous canapés as the sun slips into the horizon. Enjoy a range of colorful sundowner cocktails to complement, or opt for a flute of bubbly, courtesy the well-stocked bar onboard. (Start Time: Late afternoon; Duration: 3 hrs incl transfers; Shared Activity & Private Transfer; Fitness level: Easy)

Head out and discover the Smoke that Thunders! This tour will take you to all the highlights surrounding Victoria Falls. Stand at the ideal vantage point overlooking the heart of the mighty waters as they gush and roar. Pack your waterproofs because the closer you get, the more likely you are to experience the spray! (Time: Early morning or late afternoon; Duration: 2-3 hrs; Private Activity with private transfers ; Fitness level: Easy)

Savor a delicious lunch at the The Lookout Café, while enjoying a spectacular, panoramic view of the thundering Victoria Falls. Meet your local guide at your hotel before driving down to the town’s iconic eatery. The restaurant and bar is also accessible to differently abled guests. Settle down in the alfresco dining area at the outdoor terrace facing the mighty waterfall and relish the local African and global cuisines served here. Try a freshly grilled Zambezi bream in white wine sauce, served with salad and French fries, or a duet of roast zucchini and mushrooms with halloumi in a puff pastry shell. Finish off with a delectable fresh fruit kebab, drizzled with cinnamon and honey. (Duration: 2-3 hrs, anytime between 1000-1600 hrs; Private Activity & Transfers; Meals included: Lunch; For special dietary needs, please inform us ahead of tour; Fitness level: Easy; Please dress comfortably).

Enjoy a traditional dining experience at the Dusty Road Restaurant in Chinotimba Township. Step into the restaurant designed to resemble a typical local residence where food is cooked on open fires in cast iron vessels. Take in the vibrant decor with quirky recycled creations. Walk past creatively repurposed vehicle tires, buckets that double up as tables, and a broken down truck with metal goats and hay! Settle down to enjoy a delicious meal made with locally sourced ingredients. Choose from an ever-changing menu that features freshly baked maize bread, brown rice with lentils and chomolia, among others. Top it off with sweet treats featuring baobab cream or cassava. Pair your meal with locally brewed beer, a choice of flavorful iced tea or Maheu, a maize drink. You will be treated to an entertaining show with your meal on days when the performing cultural groups are available. (Duration: half day; Shared activity; Private Transfers; Meals included: dinner, drinks; Please inform us of any food allergies in advance)

Discover Livingstone Island—the perfect destination for visiting the majestic Victoria Falls from the Zambian side of this widest waterfall in the world. Cross the border and take a guided trip to this beautiful island, and marvel at the dramatic views of the Zambezi plunging into a curtain of mist, creating spellbinding rainbow arcs! Plunge into the ultimate, natural infinity pool of ‘Devil’s Pool’, which stands right at the edge of the 100 meter drop down the Victoria Falls! Swim right up to the edge of the waterfall to take a good look down the plunge pool. Between February and June, when the Devil’s Pool closed because of high water, you can refresh in the smaller and man-made Angel’s Pool just closeby. You can also catch the plaque marking the very spot where David Livingstone had first sighted this extraordinary and breathtaking African destination. After a tiring afternoon of exhilarating experiences, relish a sumptuous luncheon spread, washed down with soft drinks, wine and beverages at the Island before heading back. (Half Day, Afternoon Tour; Shared Activity; Private Transfers; Meals included: Lunch; Closed from February–June, the high water season; Swimming is allowed for children 8 years and above, accompanied by guardians).

Enjoy a gourmet dining experience at Bains Restaurant followed by a visit to the theater to watch Simunye, The Spirit of Africa, a spectacular production by the Victoria Falls Theatre Company. At a scheduled time, you will be driven to the stylish Bains Restaurant, nestled upstream from the majestic Victoria Falls. Soak up splendid views of the mighty Zambezi River, while savoring a delicious dinner. Then, travel to The Ndlovu Theatre near Elephant Walk. Take your seats in the open-air venue, for an extravaganza that celebrates Africa’s cultural heritage and human spirit. Under the direction of acclaimed writer and director Mongiwekhaya, the show tells the story of a young man and his elephant companion. The performance comes with a powerful message about love, community and elephant conservation. It features a talented cast that weaves together puppetry, dance and vocals, complemented by colorful sets and costumes, and an original musical score. After the show, return to your hotel. (Duration: 2.5 hrs; Time: 2000-2100 hrs (Simunye Theater); Private activity & transfers (Theater experience is shared); Guide not required; Meals included: set-menu dinner (drinks to be paid for onsite); Please inform us of any food allergies in advance; Fitness level: easy; Not available on Mon)

Experience morning and afternoon game drives and bush walks during your stay at Arathusa Safari Lodge. Accompanied by wildlife rangers and trackers, head out in an open safari vehicle in search of the Big Five and the other creatures that call this sanctuary home. Drive through the endless plains and spot rhinos and predators such as cheetahs, lions and leopards that rest amid the grassland. Scattered throughout the savannah you’ll see herds of impalas, gazelles and elands, and hippos wading in shimmering pools of water. At dusk, you are most likely to find packs of jackals, spotted hyena and wild dogs. In between safaris, explore the wilderness on foot with a naturalist guide. Learn basic tracking techniques, see dung beetles and gain insight into the architecture of anthills. You will also discover trees like the acacia, marula and knob-thorn, and medicinal plants and herbs along the way. (Duration: half day; Time of day: morning & afternoon; Shared activity; Fitness level; easy; Please bring sunscreen, hats, binoculars and a camera)

Get up close with wildlife during morning and afternoon game drives, while staying at Elephant Plains Game Lodge bordering Kruger National Park. Venture out in an open 4×4 vehicle along with a ranger and a tracker who will identify fresh animal spoors. While the ranger skillfully navigates through ravines and thickets in pursuit of wildlife, you may be able to spot some of the Big Five. At stops along the way, the wildlife experts will share their extensive knowledge of the African bush. During afternoon safaris, take in the splendid African landscape and sip a refreshing sundowner. During night drives, use a spotlight to observe the nocturnal activities of predators such as the civet and hyena, before returning to the lodge. On bush walks with your experienced Shangaan tracker, discover the sounds and sights of the reserve and learn about plants and insects. View different bird species, acquire knowledge about basic tracking techniques and listen to folklore. (Duration: half day; Time of day: morning & afternoon; Shared activity; Fitness level; easy; Please bring sunscreen, hats, binoculars and a camera)

Enjoy a day visiting Cape Town’s highlights. You are at liberty to discover the cosmopolitan city at your own leisure and pace. Whether your interests lie in exploring Cape Town’s natural landscapes, its cultural history and art, or even in its gastronomic scene, the city has it all. Visit the Castle of Good Hope, the Company Gardens, and the Green Market Square. Or ride right up to the iconic Table Mountain with its panoramic view of the city and the coastline spread out beneath. The choice is yours. (Full Day; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses & sun hats. Don’t forget your camera or binoculars. All expenses to be paid directly on site; no mode of transport included).

Enjoy a tailor-made tour of Cape Town specifically designed for your interests. With a chauffeured car at your disposal for the entire day, you are at liberty to discover the cosmopolitan city at your own leisure and pace. Whether your interests lie in exploring Cape Town’s natural landscapes, its cultural history and art, or even in its gastronomic scene, the city has it all. Visit the Castle of Good Hope, the Company Gardens, and the Green Market Square. Or ride right up to the iconic Table Mountain with its panoramic view of the city and the coastline spread out beneath. The choice is yours, as are the hours of your bespoke city tour. (Full Day; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable shoes, sunglasses & sun hats. Don’t forget your camera or binoculars). Price includes car and your driver-guide. All other expenses to be paid directly on site).

Learn about community development initiatives on this leisurely tour. Set off early in the morning to Cape Flats townships located on the outskirts of the city. Along the way, your guide will familiarize you with local greetings, customs, and traditions. Learn about the history of South Africa, apartheid, and the many socio-economic challenges faced by people who live here. Learn more about community development projects aimed at women and children, agriculture and food gardens, and housing. Interact with community activists and social entrepreneurs leading these initiatives, to gain insights into their inspiring work and success. Be a part of in-depth discussions on various political and economic issues of the day. Return to the city after a day well spent. (Duration: half day; Closed: Sat, Sun; Time: 0830/1300 – 1330/1730 hrs; Shared activity & transfers; Group size: max 13 ppl; Min age: 5; This is not a typical township tour, but a respectful visit to some of the community projects within the townships and it is important to adhere to the visitors code of conduct.)

Take a short ride on the popular Table Mountain Aerial Cableway, located within a national park and World Heritage Site, and take in panoramic views. Get into your cable car and enjoy the scenery during the five-minute ascent to the top of Table Mountain. From the upper cable station, located more than 1,000 meters above the capital of South Africa, you will be able to get a bird’s eye view of Table Bay, Robben Island, the Atlantic Ocean and the city below. At the summit, you can explore and even grab a bite to eat at the cafe located there. After, return by cable car to the lower cable station. (Duration: 10 mins (round trip); No guide; No transfers; No meals included; Entrance tickets only; The cableway is wheelchair accessible; This activity is weather dependant and shared in a group)

Experience a leisurely tour of the Winelands with some delicious wine and a bit of local history. You have an entire day to appreciate this beautiful countryside with all your senses. After an early breakfast at your hotel, drive over to the rolling Winelands for a cellar tour of some of the best and most romantic vineyards in the region. Enjoy your first round of wine before driving up to Paarl. Visit the Groot Drakenstein Prison where Nelson Mandela had spent the last days of his imprisonment. Drive up to the beautiful little village of Franschhoek, overgrown with vineyards and overlooked by the Cape mountains. Stop over for another round of delicious South African wine paired with cheese. Afterwards you could enjoy an alfresco trout lunch at any of the pretty little restaurants in the area, and make the most of the fresh catch of the day (optional). Travel up to the spectacular rural setting of Stellenbosch after lunch, established by Simon van der Stel in the shadows of the Hottentot Holland Mountains. Feast your eyes on the white gabled Cape Dutch homesteads and tree-lined avenues shaded by ancient oaks. You could also feast on yet another round of wine, if time allows. (Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Duration: 9 hrs; Private Activity & Transfer; Meals included: Wine & selected snacks like crackers and cheese; Fitness Level: Easy; Please bring comfortable walking shoes & don’t forget your camera; Note: No wine tasting for those under 18 years)

Discover all that Cape Point has to offer on this enjoyable day excursion. Following an early breakfast at your hotel, drive out to the Atlantic Seaboard Coastal Road with your local guide. Enjoy your drive along this scenic stretch of road, passing by white sandy beaches and the ocean by Clifton and Camps Bay. Take in the bracing sea breeze as the wind catches your hair. Watch the sudden appearance of the Twelve Apostles Peaks to one side of the road, while the dramatic cliffs and rocky outcrops of the Cape Peninsula rise above the Atlantic on your other side. Make a pit stop at the pretty little fishing village of Hout Bay with its famous Sentinel. If you wish, you can take a boat ride to Seal Island, or browse through colorful stalls by the harbor piled high with handicrafts and local artifacts. Drive up to the Cape’s famed Chapman’s Peak and make the most of its photo opportunities. Continue up to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve before dropping by the spectacular Cape Point. Look out for the feathery ‘fynbos’ swaying in the heathland along with the region’s endemic birds and wildlife, particularly the Cape Mountain Zebra and the baboons. Gaze out at False Bay, or if you wish, you can ride the funicular to the old lighthouse for taking in the twin oceans of the South Atlantic and the Indian Ocean. Take a refreshing lunch break (optional), before visiting the colony of African penguins at Boulders Beach. (Duration: Full Day; Time of Day: Morning; Private Activity & Transfer; Fitness Level: Easy; Lunch not included. Entrance fees for Seal Island, Boulders Beach, Colony, Cape Point Nature Reserve, Funicular included; Please bring comfortable walking shoes).