Africa and the Middle East
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SWAIN's Southern Africa
9 nights From $3835Highlights
Prestigious service, enveloping wildlife and a world-wonder waterfall all embody this itinerary.
DestinationsCape Town, Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve, Johannesburg, Victoria Falls
Your Itinerary Includes
- All round trip airport transfers
- 3 nights Cape Town
- Cape Town City half-day tour
- Cape Peninsula full-day tour
- Roundtrip scheduled charter flights between Johannesburg and the Sabi Sands
- 3 nights Sabi Sands Game Reserve
- Sabi Sands game viewing
- 1 night Johannesburg
- 2 nights Victoria Falls
- Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River
- Morning tour of Victoria Falls
- Afternoon Elephant Interaction
- 9 breakfasts 3 lunches 3 dinners
Day-By-Day Itinerary
This itinerary can be fully customized; to tailor this package to your specific requirements please call one of our travel specialists at 1-800-22-SWAIN.
Day 1 Fly USA to Cape Town (Via Johannesburg)
Day 2 Welcome to Cape Town, South Africa
Arrive in spectacular Cape Town, also known as the “Mother City”. You will be met at the airport
and transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is at leisure to soak up the atmosphere of Cape
Town and the waterfront area.
Day 3 Cape Town City Tour
Cape Town City Tour - half-day (morning)
Come with us on the ultimate 'Mother City' experience, designed to orientate and give you a full-colour insight into the extraordinary magic of Cape Town. We've chosen iconic buildings, snatches of its history, and experiences unique to this City. First up, it's the cable car to the summit of the legendary Table Mountain - weather permitting - and from there, you'll be able to see to the end of our world, including the City and surrounding layout of this southernmost tip of Africa (own account). We visit the country's oldest building, The Castle (closed Sundays), and a short distance away, the Company Gardens, both historically fascinating and well conserved. Our drive continues past Parliament Buildings, City Hall and the Slave Lodge, and you'll sense the depth of history via their distinctive architecture. Colonial then changes to colourful, as we move up the cobblestoned hills to the Malay Quarter, and marvel at the ice-cream colours of the quaint Bo-Kaap homes. Our day ends on a sparkling note, as we trace the moves of a professional diamond cutter, as he creates every girl's dream stone.
Afternoon at leisure
Day 4 Cape Peninsula tour
Travel along the Atlantic Seaboard, to Hout Bay. From Hout Bay, travel to Noordhoek and through Ou Kaapse Weg.
Proceed to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, where you are able to ride the Funicular (for your own account) to the viewpoint where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The Cape Peninsula is the thin finger of land in the southwestern most corner of Africa with the city of Cape Town at its head. As you travel south towards Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, the land gets narrower until the great Indian and Atlantic Oceans combine into one vast southern ocean, with nothing beyond except Antarctica. In 1578 Sir Francis Drake described it as 'The fairest cape in the whole circumference of the globe,' and it still is.
The Peninsula can be divided into the Atlantic coast on the west (including the City of Cape Town) and the False Bay coast on the east. With nothing but water all around the peninsula, the weather can be a little unpredictable and the wind can whip itself up into a fury. Luckily when it is howling on one side it is normally quiet on the other, so you can always find a sheltered spot.
On leaving the Nature Reserve, proceed to Simonstown, where you stop for lunch (for your own account), as well as a short stop at Boulders Beach. Nestled in historic Simon's Town in South Africa, Boulders Penguin Colony is part of the Cape Peninsula National Park. Almost 3000 African (jackass) penguins, so called because their call resembles the bray of a donkey, reign supreme amidst rounded rocks and fish-filled False Bay. These endangered, flightless birds are free to roam the seas and return to their private haven - Foxy Beach at Boulders.
Day 5 Cape Town to Sabi Sands (via Johannesburg)
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight to the Sabi Sands. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your Sabi Sands accommodation.
Undoubtedly the most prestigious game park in South Africa, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is known for having some of the best available Big Five game spotting in the country. Located on the southwest corner of the Kruger National Park, there are no restricting fences so the animals roam freely just as nature intended.
Days 6-7 On safari, Sabi Sands
The day will typically start with an early rise. Enjoy a light snack before departing on an activity,
with a stop for a snack and tea/coffee en route. Upon return to camp (normally about three
hours later) enjoy a sizeable brunch. Free time is them ample during the heat of the day to enjoy
a siesta, or a dip in the pool. Mid-afternoon, tea, cakes and savories are served, before you
depart on your afternoon activity, with a stop for cocktails en route. Return to camp and savor a
sumptuous dinner.
Day 8 Sabi Sands to Johannesburg
Fly to Johannesburg and transfer to your hotel. They came from far and wide to strike it rich
when gold was discovered here in 1886, and the “City of Gold” still pulsates with entrepreneurial
energy.
Day 9 Fly Johannesburg to Victoria Falls
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your accommodation.
The Victoria Falls, affectionately abbreviated to Vic Falls by anyone who’s been there, is one of the 7 wonders of the world.
The Victoria Falls, affectionately abbreviated to Vic Falls by anyone who’s been there, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and the locals refer to the Falls as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (the smoke that thunders). There is a magic about them manifested in the towering column of spray when the river is high, the thunder of the falling water, the terrifying abyss and tranquil lagoons upstream in which hippo and crocodiles lurk.
The mighty Zambezi flows broad and placid to the brink of a one mile wide basalt lip before taking a headlong 328 foot plunge into the thunderous, frothy chasm of the gorge below. This is the world's largest sheet of falling water. Once the river has taken its plunge, things change...for those with the courage, the rapids immediately downstream offer some of the most adrenalin-pumping white water rafting available anywhere in the world.
Sunset Cruise
Half-day Tour (afternoon)
We understand. You've expended all your energy after a day's assault on your adrenaline levels at exciting Victoria Falls, and now, you're ready to chill. You've come to the right place. Put your feet up, sip a sundowner as the light gently fades, and let our tranquil wildlife cruise float you along the Zambezi River above the Falls. You'll have the finest vantage point from which to watch hippo, crocodiles and other animals which come down to the river's edge in the early evening, to slake their thirst. You're in the first-class seats, that's for sure, and while you're sipping your cocktail and enjoying snacks - no further movement required on your part - you'll be captivated by the sun's dying rays as they cast a burnt-orange glow which shimmers on the river. Take another sip in this golden setting - cheers!
Day 10 Victoria Falls Activities
Tour of Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe side
Half-day Tour (morning)
No surprise why Victoria Falls is one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World! You'll understand it instantly as we tour the Zimbabwean side, for there are numerous spectacular vantage points along the width of the Falls, and the sight of this astounding gift of nature, simply takes your breath away. We'll walk through the permanent, beautifully misty rain forest which flanks the Falls, stopping to marvel at the principal sites as it cascades to the depths below: the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, Cataract Island and Livingstone Island. We'll stand and watch, feel and listen to the spray and thunderous noise, as millions of litres of water tumble over the Falls into a series of narrow gorges below. The seventh Natural Wonder of the World puts on the most dramatic show for you, and you'll be privileged to have watched it.
Elephant Back Safari
Half-day Tour (afternoon)
There you are, sitting up high on the back of a massive, placid elephant, with the world and wildlife at your feet! It's an extraordinary way to view nature, for the surrounding wildlife is entirely unafraid, contrary to their reaction to the normal human presence. After a short safety briefing and introduction, you'll be introduced to the elephants and their handlers. Each elephant carries a single handler, and no more than two guests. You set off on these gentle creatures through the bush, crossing a shallow river to arrive on a small island. Here, you dismount, and are encouraged to interact with the elephants, while the knowledgeable guides share their knowledge with you. It's an extraordinary experience communicating, if you like, with the elephants, being up so close to one. Savour every moment.
Please bear in mind that you will be responsible for carrying your personal effects while on the walk. It is therefore advisable that belongings are kept to a reasonable limit. Bottled water will be available, so it is not necessary for you to take your own.
You should wear neutral colored clothes. Wildlife may be encountered and therefore whites and bright colors should be avoided.
Day 11 Victoria Falls to Johannesburg to USA
You will be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport to connect with your scheduled departure flight to Johannesburg. On arrival into Johannesburg, connect with your onward flight returning to the U.S.
Day 12 Arrive USA
Day 2 Welcome to Cape Town, South Africa
Arrive in spectacular Cape Town, also known as the “Mother City”. You will be met at the airport
and transferred to your hotel. The afternoon is at leisure to soak up the atmosphere of Cape
Town and the waterfront area.
Day 3 Cape Town City Tour
Cape Town City Tour - half-day (morning)
Come with us on the ultimate 'Mother City' experience, designed to orientate and give you a full-colour insight into the extraordinary magic of Cape Town. We've chosen iconic buildings, snatches of its history, and experiences unique to this City. First up, it's the cable car to the summit of the legendary Table Mountain - weather permitting - and from there, you'll be able to see to the end of our world, including the City and surrounding layout of this southernmost tip of Africa (own account). We visit the country's oldest building, The Castle (closed Sundays), and a short distance away, the Company Gardens, both historically fascinating and well conserved. Our drive continues past Parliament Buildings, City Hall and the Slave Lodge, and you'll sense the depth of history via their distinctive architecture. Colonial then changes to colourful, as we move up the cobblestoned hills to the Malay Quarter, and marvel at the ice-cream colours of the quaint Bo-Kaap homes. Our day ends on a sparkling note, as we trace the moves of a professional diamond cutter, as he creates every girl's dream stone.
Afternoon at leisure
Day 4 Cape Peninsula tour
Travel along the Atlantic Seaboard, to Hout Bay. From Hout Bay, travel to Noordhoek and through Ou Kaapse Weg.
Proceed to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, where you are able to ride the Funicular (for your own account) to the viewpoint where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet. The Cape Peninsula is the thin finger of land in the southwestern most corner of Africa with the city of Cape Town at its head. As you travel south towards Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, the land gets narrower until the great Indian and Atlantic Oceans combine into one vast southern ocean, with nothing beyond except Antarctica. In 1578 Sir Francis Drake described it as 'The fairest cape in the whole circumference of the globe,' and it still is.
The Peninsula can be divided into the Atlantic coast on the west (including the City of Cape Town) and the False Bay coast on the east. With nothing but water all around the peninsula, the weather can be a little unpredictable and the wind can whip itself up into a fury. Luckily when it is howling on one side it is normally quiet on the other, so you can always find a sheltered spot.
On leaving the Nature Reserve, proceed to Simonstown, where you stop for lunch (for your own account), as well as a short stop at Boulders Beach. Nestled in historic Simon's Town in South Africa, Boulders Penguin Colony is part of the Cape Peninsula National Park. Almost 3000 African (jackass) penguins, so called because their call resembles the bray of a donkey, reign supreme amidst rounded rocks and fish-filled False Bay. These endangered, flightless birds are free to roam the seas and return to their private haven - Foxy Beach at Boulders.
Day 5 Cape Town to Sabi Sands (via Johannesburg)
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight to the Sabi Sands. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your Sabi Sands accommodation.
Undoubtedly the most prestigious game park in South Africa, the Sabi Sand Game Reserve is known for having some of the best available Big Five game spotting in the country. Located on the southwest corner of the Kruger National Park, there are no restricting fences so the animals roam freely just as nature intended.
Days 6-7 On safari, Sabi Sands
The day will typically start with an early rise. Enjoy a light snack before departing on an activity,
with a stop for a snack and tea/coffee en route. Upon return to camp (normally about three
hours later) enjoy a sizeable brunch. Free time is them ample during the heat of the day to enjoy
a siesta, or a dip in the pool. Mid-afternoon, tea, cakes and savories are served, before you
depart on your afternoon activity, with a stop for cocktails en route. Return to camp and savor a
sumptuous dinner.
Day 8 Sabi Sands to Johannesburg
Fly to Johannesburg and transfer to your hotel. They came from far and wide to strike it rich
when gold was discovered here in 1886, and the “City of Gold” still pulsates with entrepreneurial
energy.
Day 9 Fly Johannesburg to Victoria Falls
Transfer to the airport for your onward flight. On arrival you will be met and transferred to your accommodation.
The Victoria Falls, affectionately abbreviated to Vic Falls by anyone who’s been there, is one of the 7 wonders of the world.
The Victoria Falls, affectionately abbreviated to Vic Falls by anyone who’s been there, is one of the Seven Wonders of the World, and the locals refer to the Falls as "Mosi-oa-Tunya" (the smoke that thunders). There is a magic about them manifested in the towering column of spray when the river is high, the thunder of the falling water, the terrifying abyss and tranquil lagoons upstream in which hippo and crocodiles lurk.
The mighty Zambezi flows broad and placid to the brink of a one mile wide basalt lip before taking a headlong 328 foot plunge into the thunderous, frothy chasm of the gorge below. This is the world's largest sheet of falling water. Once the river has taken its plunge, things change...for those with the courage, the rapids immediately downstream offer some of the most adrenalin-pumping white water rafting available anywhere in the world.
Sunset Cruise
Half-day Tour (afternoon)
We understand. You've expended all your energy after a day's assault on your adrenaline levels at exciting Victoria Falls, and now, you're ready to chill. You've come to the right place. Put your feet up, sip a sundowner as the light gently fades, and let our tranquil wildlife cruise float you along the Zambezi River above the Falls. You'll have the finest vantage point from which to watch hippo, crocodiles and other animals which come down to the river's edge in the early evening, to slake their thirst. You're in the first-class seats, that's for sure, and while you're sipping your cocktail and enjoying snacks - no further movement required on your part - you'll be captivated by the sun's dying rays as they cast a burnt-orange glow which shimmers on the river. Take another sip in this golden setting - cheers!
Day 10 Victoria Falls Activities
Tour of Victoria Falls - Zimbabwe side
Half-day Tour (morning)
No surprise why Victoria Falls is one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World! You'll understand it instantly as we tour the Zimbabwean side, for there are numerous spectacular vantage points along the width of the Falls, and the sight of this astounding gift of nature, simply takes your breath away. We'll walk through the permanent, beautifully misty rain forest which flanks the Falls, stopping to marvel at the principal sites as it cascades to the depths below: the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, Cataract Island and Livingstone Island. We'll stand and watch, feel and listen to the spray and thunderous noise, as millions of litres of water tumble over the Falls into a series of narrow gorges below. The seventh Natural Wonder of the World puts on the most dramatic show for you, and you'll be privileged to have watched it.
Elephant Back Safari
Half-day Tour (afternoon)
There you are, sitting up high on the back of a massive, placid elephant, with the world and wildlife at your feet! It's an extraordinary way to view nature, for the surrounding wildlife is entirely unafraid, contrary to their reaction to the normal human presence. After a short safety briefing and introduction, you'll be introduced to the elephants and their handlers. Each elephant carries a single handler, and no more than two guests. You set off on these gentle creatures through the bush, crossing a shallow river to arrive on a small island. Here, you dismount, and are encouraged to interact with the elephants, while the knowledgeable guides share their knowledge with you. It's an extraordinary experience communicating, if you like, with the elephants, being up so close to one. Savour every moment.
Please bear in mind that you will be responsible for carrying your personal effects while on the walk. It is therefore advisable that belongings are kept to a reasonable limit. Bottled water will be available, so it is not necessary for you to take your own.
You should wear neutral colored clothes. Wildlife may be encountered and therefore whites and bright colors should be avoided.
Day 11 Victoria Falls to Johannesburg to USA
You will be transferred to Victoria Falls Airport to connect with your scheduled departure flight to Johannesburg. On arrival into Johannesburg, connect with your onward flight returning to the U.S.
Day 12 Arrive USA
Extras
Cape Peninsula Full Day Tour
Drive past pristine beaches to Hout Bay, a functioning harbor and heart of the local crayfish industry. Drive along the breathtakingly scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive and around the Atlantic Seaboard. See the spectacular sea and mountain views from the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve; the rocky landscape is home to mountain zebra, eland and ostriches. Continue along the coastline to Boulders Beach where you can view a colony of penguins. Stop in the naval port of Simon’s Town, the country’s third oldest European settlement.Cities: Cape Town
Cape Town Half Day City Tour
Enjoy the ultimate 'Mother City' experience, designed to orientate you and give you an insight into the magic of Cape Town. Weather permitting, take a cable car up to Table Mountain (own account) before visiting South Africa’s oldest building – the Castle. Explore the Company Gardens, and continue on a scenic tour past the Parliament Buildings, City Hall and Slave lodge. Travel through the historic Malay Quarter and the colorful Bo-Kaap, and end with a diamond cutting tour.Cities: Cape Town
Cape Winelands Tour
Enjoy a whole day dedicated to the indulgence and splendor of Africa’s premier wine region. Escape to the beauty and tranquility of the Paarl, Franschhoek and Stellenbosch Winelands. The first stop is the Afrikaans Language Monument, perched on Paarl Rock, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding area. Then continue onto wineries to sample wines of merit before visiting the Huguenot Monument and Museum in Franschhoek, where you will discover the origins of the world renowned wine producing region.Cities: Cape Town
Hermanus Full Day Tour
The once quiet fishing village of Hermanus provides some of the finest shorebased whale watching in the world. See the Southern Right whales at play. Enjoy the coastal drive with breathtaking ocean views. Stop for wine tasting at a coastal wine estate. Following the whale watching and lunch (own account), you will drive through the scenic Elgin – an apple growing center. Travel back to Cape Town via St. Lowry's Pass.Cities: Cape Town
Sandboarding Tour
Enjoy a fun filled morning of Sand Boarding! Travel to the stunning nature reserve at Atlantis (approx. 40 minutes from Cape Town). This idyllic location offers incredibly white sand dunes, unique views of Table Mountain and the City and provides an incredible wide-open feeling of Africa. Alternatively, we can travel along the East Coast to Bettys Bay which is approximately an hour drive out of Town. Your Guides will provide instruction for the duration of the activity in a safe and fun filled environment. All sand board equipment, expert instructors, permits, and transport to and from the sand dunes location is included. *This tour requires a minimum of 4 people to operate.Cities: Cape Town
Shark Cage Diving
Between the islands of Geyser Rock and Dyer Island is a narrow and shallow channel called Shark Alley - reputed to be the world’s best place for Great White Shark cage diving. Enjoy a light breakfast before an orientation of the activities for the day. Then, depart on the boat for a 20 minute trip to “Shark Alley”. The Skipper will begin “chumming” (baiting for sharks) and get the opportunity to view from the deck or participate in a Cage Dive as sharks make their appearance. No diving qualification is necessary.Cities: Cape Town
Walk to Freedom Full Day Tour
Tour the vibrant Bo- Kaap (Malay Quarter) where the breezes carry the scent of spicy curries, then head to the District Six Museum. Tour Langa, the oldest apartheid housing scheme in the Western Cape townships and visit the Tsoga Environmental Gardens. Sample a slice of township life with a visit to an informal spaza (shop), a shebeen (pub) and hostels. Following lunch, (own expense) embark on a 3 hour cruise and tour of Robben Island and walk in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela.Cities: Cape Town
Winelands and Cape Point Cycling Tour
Visit the African Penguin Colony at Boulders Beach then continue to the Cape Point Nature Reserve for spectacular costal views. Cycle through this area and smell the unique scent of the Protea, Walk up to the site of the original lighthouse at Cape Point then walk along the Clifftop route from Cape Point to the Cape of Good Hope. Next, head for the Constantia wine lands; try a selection of wines and discover why South Africa is hailed as one of the finest wine producing countries in the world.Cities: Cape Town
Apartheid Museum
Discover the racial segregation experienced by millions of South Africans a mere decade ago. On entering the building you are racially classified and you see this segregation in all forms of life. There are excellent displays including the inauguration of Nelson Mandela as President.Cities: Johannesburg
Soweto Cultural Half Day Tour
Travel through the streets of the sprawling township of Soweto, scene of the tragic riots of 1976. Despite crowded and chaotic conditions, there’s a tangible sense of community which the ordered, walled suburbs lack. Pass the Mandela House, with the option to visit the small museum. Then, visit Regina Mondi Church, site of many underground meetings for then banned political parties.Cities: Johannesburg
Tour of the Falls
This morning enjoy a tour of the Falls. The Victoria Falls is classed as one of the wonders of the world. From January to June, Zambia benefits massively from the increased water flow over the falls making it a spectacular viewing point.Cities: Victoria Falls
White Water Rafting
This full day white water rafting adventure on the Zambezi River is internationally acclaimed as being the wildest in the world. White water rafting on the Zambezi River below the Victoria Falls has been classified by the British Canoe Union as Grade 5 – 'extremely difficult, long and violent rapids, steep gradients, big drops and pressure areas'. This is a high volume, pool-drop river with little exposed rock either in the rapids or in the pools below the rapids. On occasion Klipspringer, Rock Hyrax, Vervet monkeys and Baboon are spotted and the birdlife is spectacular; Black eagle, Augur buzzard, Black stork, Pied and Giant kingfisher, and Red Winged starling are some of the birds normally seen during the trips. Sightings of the very rare Taita falcon are not uncommon. There are crocodile in the river, but they are small due to the unsuitability of the area for their habitation.Cities: Victoria Falls
*All prices are per person.
All Private Tour prices and most Small Group prices require a minimum 2 paying participants.
Hotels
For more information about the hotels visited in this itinerary please click the hotel name below.Standard |
Superior |
Deluxe |
Luxury |
|
Cape Town
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Southern Sun Waterfront Cape Town
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Victoria & Alfred Hotel
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Cape Grace
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Sabi Sands Reserve
|
Notten Bush Camp
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Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge
|
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Johannesburg
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Peermont Metcourt
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D'Oreale Grande
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InterContinental Johannesburg
|
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Victoria Falls
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Ilala Lodge
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Victoria Falls Safari Lodge
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Victoria Falls Hotel
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Pricing
Please note all prices listed below are subject to current rate of exchange adjustments. Please call for exact price quote for your travel dates.To determine pricing for your tour select the appropriate travel season and desired accommodation level from the table below.
| Twin Share | Single Rate** | Child Rate*** | |
Reference # |
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Standard |
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May 1, 2012 - Sep 30, 2012
|
$3835 | $5040 | - |
Oct 1, 2012 - Oct 31, 2012
|
$4175 | $5620 | - |
Superior |
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May 1, 2012 - Jul 31, 2012
|
$5385 | $6460 | - |
Aug 1, 2012 - Sep 30, 2012
|
$6005 | $7180 | - |
Oct 1, 2012 - Oct 31, 2012
|
$6290 | $7740 | - |
Deluxe |
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May 1, 2012 - Aug 31, 2012
|
$7750 | $11350 | - |
Sep 1, 2012 - Oct 31, 2012
|
$7750 | $11350 | - |
Add Internal Airfare Pricing |
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Routing: CPT-JNB-VFA-JNB |
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Jan 1, 2012 - Dec 31, 2012
|
$536 | ||
**Single Supplement is based on an individual traveling with others (sharing touring and transfers etc.) but has their own room at each place of accommodation. If you will be traveling alone, please contact us for the single traveler supplement.
***Child Rate pricing for child is under 12, based on a family of 4 |
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