South Africa & Victoria Falls

Arrive in Cape Town, a breathtaking harbor city where old and new converge in history, architecture, cultural pursuits and the essence of its people. Warmed by the African sun, the city is dominated by the towering, flat-topped Table Mountain, set on a peninsula of rocky heights and lush valleys. An A&K representative transfers you to your luxurious hotel.

Wind your way through the scenic, shrub-dotted landscape to Table Mountain; ascend to its sky-high plateau by cable car (weather permitting) for dazzling views of city and sea. Next, venture to old Cape Town with views of notable buildings, including Groote Kerk (South Africa’s oldest church) and City Hall on the Grand Parade, Cape Town’s largest square. Continue past the pentagonal Castle of Good Hope. Built by the Dutch East India Company as a maritime refreshment station, it later became the center of military life in the cape. When available, stop at Streetwires for an artisan visit, where locals come together to craft unique, handmade wire and bead art, now successfully exported to over 15 countries worldwide. After lunch, visit Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden alongside a private local guide. At tonight’s welcome dinner, relax as a resident chef or sommelier guides you through a progressive, contemporary feast.

Discover Cape Point, the mountainous and scenic promontory at the southwestern tip of the continent. Embark on a journey past the “bikini beaches” at the base of the towering Twelve Apostles Mountains, bucolic Hout Bay with its bustling fishing harbor, and over the famous Chapman’s Peak Drive. Explore the stunning Cape Peninsula and Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, home to rare bontebok, chacma baboons and several endemic plant species not found elsewhere. Ride the “Flying Dutchman” funicular to the great pinnacle at blustery Cape Point, which presides over treacherous reefs, sandy beaches and, from July to November, breathtaking views of Southern right whales. At Boulders Beach, visit its colony of endangered African penguins; accustomed to humans, they provide endless photo opportunities. Spend the remainder of your day at leisure, enjoying your hotel, exploring the city’s harborfront and boutique shops, or dining in one of Cape Town’s world-class restaurants.

Fly to either the Lion Sands River Lodge located in Sabi Sands Game Reserve or MalaMala Main Camp in MalaMala Private Game Reserve. Both of these wildlife-rich properties are privately owned and each reserve borders Kruger National Park to offer you the very finest game-viewing safari experience. Lion Sands River Lodge lies on the banks of the Sabie River, where trees date back 800 years. Facing due east, the lodge catches the sun as it rises over Kruger National Park. Hosted by the fourth generation of a family that makes it feel like home away from home, it embodies spirit, warmth and nature. Legendary MalaMala Main Camp is set on the lush banks of the Sand River on a private reserve long heralded for its superb game watching. Air-conditioned guest rooms boast spectacular views of the surrounding bush, the main lounge overlooks an active watering hole, and a staff-to-guest ratio of three to one assures personalized service. Once you are settled into your elegant accommodations, set off in search of the “Big Five” — elephants, lions, rhinos, Cape buffalo and leopards — and other wildlife.

Spend two days immersed in your private game reserve. Embark on game drives in open safari vehicles for optimum viewing and go on early-morning game walks with your ranger. This region is one of the finest in Africa for high densities of wildlife, which often appear just steps in front of you. As you explore, learn about the flora and fauna as well as basic tracking skills. Also today, participate in an A&K Chef’s Table culinary experience, preparing a traditional South African dish. At dusk, stop for a sundowner, and then search for nocturnal animals before returning to your lodge for dinner.

Today, fly to Livingstone, Zambia, and then transfer to your hotel in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. After lunch, enjoy an afternoon at leisure, anticipating tomorrow’s visit to the falls once called Mosi-oa-Tunya (“The Smoke That Thunders”).

Take a guided walking tour of breathtaking Victoria Falls, one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, and explore the surrounding rainforest. See rainbows and clouds of spray as the mile-wide Upper Zambezi plummets into the Lower Zambezi. Afterward, you may opt to shop at the stalls of local artisans at a local market. At sunset, cruise the Zambezi, viewing hippos and elephants at the shore, while sipping a cocktail for a delightfully relaxing Scenic Sundowner. Gather tonight for a farewell dinner.

Fly to Johannesburg, where you enjoy access to the Premier Lounge before boarding your international flight home.