South Africa Tour
We landed early in Cape Town and went straight into exploring. First stop: the gorgeous beaches of Camps Bay and Clifton, followed by a visit to the lively Victoria & Alfred Waterfront—packed with restaurants, bars and upmarket shops. Our lunch at The Market Place was delicious and gave us our first taste of South Africa’s amazing value for money.
That night we checked into the charming Vineyard Hotel, just 15 minutes from the city centre and with amazing Table Mountain views. Stylish, welcoming and full of character—this hotel set the bar high.
Day two kicked off with a trip to Hout Bay and a cruise with Drumboat Charters to see the local seal colony—hundreds of them sunbathing and diving around us. Then it was on to Boulders Beach, home to a colony of African penguins. Watching them waddle, nest and swim was a real highlight. After a scenic coastal drive to Simons Town, we had an epic seafood lunch at Black Marlin—highly recommended.
Next stop: Cape Point, via the spectacular Chapman’s Peak Drive. We took the funicular (The Flying Dutchman) up to the lighthouse, though a few of us bailed on the steps at the top thanks to a surprise storm!
On day three we left Cape Town and headed into the Winelands—first stop Babylonstoren, a dreamy Cape Dutch farm surrounded by mountains. It’s a tranquil escape with beautiful rooms, a farm-to-table restaurant (booked months in advance), a spa, gardens and activities like canoeing, yoga and wine tasting. The daily garden tour at 10am is free and well worth it.
Next, we popped into Delaire Graff Estate for wine tasting in a stunning mountain setting, then on to Stellenbosch, South Africa’s oldest town and one of my trip highlights. A walking foodie tour introduced us to biltong, rooibos tea, rusks and local breads. The town is packed with history, culture and charm—and my favourite hotel of the trip, Oude Werf, which blends Georgian heritage with modern luxury and fantastic food.
Day four took us along the Garden Route to Knysna—a five-hour drive that flew by thanks to smooth roads and incredible views. Knysna sits on a picturesque lagoon, surrounded by forest and mountains, and known for its oysters and bustling markets.
We stayed at the Protea Hotel Knysna Quays, right on the waterfront. That evening we took a sunset cruise on the ‘John Benn’ before dinner at Cruise Café, just a short stroll from the hotel.
Day five was the grand finale—Shamwari Game Reserve, one of South Africa’s best private, malaria-free reserves. Spread over 25,000 hectares, Shamwari is home to the Big Five—and we were lucky enough to see them all up close, thanks to our brilliant rangers, Phillip and Tops.
We stayed at Riverdene, a relaxed and luxurious family-friendly lodge, but also toured Long Lee Manor, Bayethe, Sarili, and Eagles Crag, each offering something unique.
Beyond the game drives, Shamwari is deeply committed to conservation. We visited the Born Free Foundation Rescue Centre, where rescued big cats are given a safe home, and the Wildlife Rehab Centre, currently caring for “Hope” the rhino, who survived a poaching attack. Shamwari’s mission to protect and rehabilitate wildlife was inspiring and moving.
South Africa wowed me at every turn—breathtaking scenery, rich culture, warm hospitality, incredible food and wine, and unforgettable wildlife experiences.
It’s a destination that has something for everyone: foodies, wine lovers, wildlife enthusiasts, families, honeymooners, solo travellers, and couples. This trip exceeded my expectations—and I’d love to help plan one that exceeds yours too.
