Our team of travel experts at Adventures Africa has been fortunate to visit some of the most interesting places on our Mother Earth. But truthfully– the more places we go, the more we realize how difficult it is to top the continent of Africa, and South Africa in particular.

Along with the natural beauty that is the background for South Africa are all the memorable and adventurous activities we can arrange for our travel guests. African wildlife safaris are usually #1 on everyone’s list. To be so close to such majestic animals in their natural habitat is an experience never forgotten. But game drives are not the only adventures available. offered.

You can have very active outings such as cage diving with sharks, bungee jumping, zip-lining, kayaking and hot-air ballooning. Different cities offer full contrasts of experiences such as delicious food and wine, scenic outdoors with breathtaking nature, an expansive coastline with an abundance of beaches, and the most important of all—the South African culture. No matter where you go, the warm hospitality of the people will leave you feeling welcome and eager to return.

One of the goals of the travel experts at Adventures Africa is educate as many people as possible about this remarkable country so that travelers can consider it for their future plans. We send many groups to South Africa, so when we have the opportunity we send group decision makers there to experience this destination in person.

Then they can share their impressions with their group members, and together they plan for all to go and enjoy it for themselves. Our most recent group leader FAM (familiarization trip) was to the Eastern Cape, the beautiful city of Cape Town, and to the Cape Winelands. We had the pleasure to host eight directors of U.S. travel clubs, and here is what they experienced during their stay.

Our trip started with a pleasant hour and a half drive from Port Elizabeth airport to Kariega Game Reserve, accompanied by our driver-guide. His knowledge about the Eastern Cape and Port Elizabeth was extensive and we all enjoyed the stories about the history of Port Elizabeth and the lives of its residents. Upon arrival at Kariega Game Reserve, we were warmly greeted and given a short introduction to the resort. Juan, our ranger, took us to our chalets at the Main Lodge area which was our home for next 3 nights.

We were accommodated in three ensuite bedroom log chalets with large private decks and gorgeous views of the game reserve. The chalets were tucked away in the brush, so we felt totally private yet were only a short walk to the main lodge with dining area, bar, curio shop and swimming pool. We had one game drive the first evening, and a total of 5 game drives by the end of the stay. Each drive was three hours of photo-safari experience starting at 6:00am and going again in the afternoon at 4:00pm. No two games drives are ever alike, mainly because of the animals’ natural behavior. We were able to see lions and lionesses, elephants, rhinos, giraffes, hippos, zebras, buffalos, ostriches, monkeys, impalas, and warthogs, and all at very close range.

Unfortunately, we did not get to see leopards during this trip. Our guide Juan was very knowledgeable and very kind and empathetic. He provided us with a wonderful experience while being sensitive and respectful to the animals. He unraveled many secrets of the African bush and taught us to understand the environment so much better. We all agreed he was quite exceptional.

The dinners were served outdoors by the light of lanterns and a central fire in a ‘boma’, which is a traditional place made to enclose outdoor dining areas and create a warm space where guests can enjoy meals under the African night sky and after a day out on a game drive.

Beside enjoying the beauty of a game reserve and the wildlife, the highlight of the stay was when we were taken to a secluded track off the beaten path during a game drive. After a short distance, we stopped, got off the safari vehicle and walked through the bush. We came out to a welcoming setting with lanterns creating a circle of light around chairs and tables set with snacks and drinks. What a surprise! It was truly a magical and special moment that none will ever forget.

Our next stop: Cape Town, the Mother City of South Africa. We went back to Port Elizabeth Airport to depart on a nonstop flight to our next adventure.

Our host for the next three nights in Cape Town was the Commodore Hotel, which is conveniently located only a short stroll to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. It’s only few minutes further to walk to the main shops and restaurants.

You can get out and about very easily. The hotel itself is traditional and colonial in style with maritime themes. The rooms are very spacious, with gorgeous views of Table Mountain. The hotel staff from the front desk to the concierge was very friendly and attentive.

As travel planners, we are delighted to know that our Kariega three-night stay will help our trip leaders to return to South Africa, wanting their groups to experience the magic of this storied game reserve, its lodge team, and its skilled rangers.Our itinerary for next two days was filled with many ‘must-see’ tours for first time visitors. Big thanks to our guide Ivan, a human fountain of knowledge for all things Cape Town and South Africa.

Highlights of our trip down to Cape Point Peninsula included one of the world’s most spectacular drives, Hout Bay, Chapman’s Peak, Noordhoek Beach, the Cape Point Nature Reserve, two lighthouses on the tip of Africa, Boulders Penguin Colony, Simon’s Town, Kalk Bay and the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

Our Chapman’s Peak drive wound its way between Noordhoek and Hout Bay. Situated on the Atlantic Coast at the south-western tip of South Africa, it is one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world.

The six-mile route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman’s Peak. The drive shows stunning 180° views with many areas along the route where you can stop and take in the scenery or sit down for a relaxing picnic.

The Boulders Penguin Colony is a picturesque area, with enormous boulders dividing small, sandy coves. It is home to a colony of some 3000 delightful African penguins. The bulk of the colony, which has grown from just two breeding pairs in 1982, seems to prefer hanging out at the beach, where, like nonchalant, stunted supermodels, they blithely ignore the armies of camera-toting tourists snapping away on the viewing platforms. The aquatic birds, which

are an endangered species, were formerly called jackass penguins because of their unique, donkey-like braying.

Simon’s Town is nestled on False Bay, within easy distance of Cape Town. It is rich in history, character, atmosphere and warmth. The neighbors to Simon’s Town are whales, penguins, seals, and world-heritage- status birdlife. Simon’s Town offers one of the best holiday accommodations in Cape Town and features the beauty of the Table Mountain range, Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope. This town has stunning views in the most beautiful environment of the Cape Peninsula.

On the lower slopes of Table Mountain, the beautiful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens showcase some of the Cape’s rich flora. Taking center stage is the unique ‘fynbos’ vegetation. Featured in this garden paradise are the restaurant and the tea room, with tempting delicious meals, yummy treats and refreshing beverages. Kirstenbosch is rated as the seventh best of its kind in the world.

With straight cliffs and a long flat summit, Table Mountain names itself. Rising over 3,200 ft above sea level, it is the icon that makes Cape Town instantly recognizable. It is a symbol, a playground, a spiritual retreat and a must-see for South African tourists. Table Mountain is so intertwined with the identity of Cape Town that a visit to the city isn’t complete without having walked or taken the cable car to the top.

South Africa’s Cape Winelands are only an hour drive from Cape Town. These valleys and mountains have become synonymous with some of the world’s finest wines. Spectacular mountain scenery, fine hotels and guest houses, 300 years of wine making history, and many of the country’s top restaurants combine to make the Cape Winelands a much-desired destination.

This is the center of South Africa’s award-winning wine industry. The places of interest include Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and numerous other noteworthy wine estates. We visited two wine farms that included with cellar tours and wine & cheese tastings.

Idyllically situated in the Cape Winelands, the peaceful country retreat of Franschhoek is one of the oldest towns in South Africa. The once sleepy little village, whose name means ‘French Corner’, was founded by French Huguenots. The fertile valley of Franschhoek’s rich heritage is showcased at the fascinating Huguenot Memorial Museum.

The Cape Dutch architecture in much of the village remains remarkably well preserved. The town’s proximity to Cape Town allows for pleasant day trips during which visitors can explore the area’s many world-class wine estates, the impressive range of excellent restaurants, or browse the quaint boutiques strewn along the town’s lovely tree-lined avenues.

Cape Town is one of the world’s most beautiful cities, and it has fascinating history, interesting culture, natural beauty, award-winning wines, and a laid back lifestyle. It captures your heart and all your senses and will remain as a collection of memories that will always bring a smile to your face.

Our educational trip for group leaders started in the bush with the wildlife for which Africa is uniquely famous and ended with tours in and around one of the loveliest and most celebrated cities in the world. This is Africa and it is our specialty. Whether you are traveling with your family, with a group, or going solo, Adventures Africa can create the life trip that will always remain as your favorite.

In addition, another part of this wonderful journey was a pre-ski trip to Alpe d’Huez, the main resort of the fabulous ‘Grandes Rousses’ ski area and mythical La Grave, the legendary off piste ski resort (both located in France). By putting together these two destinations, the ultimate SKI and SAFARI experience was delivered to all travelers.

Approximate package cost for this type of program is $2,500 USD, based on low season rates. Inclusions: 1-night stay in Johannesburg, 3 nights in Kariega Game Reserve, 4 nights in Cape Town, and all ground transport and tour/activities.

TAKE A LOOK AT OUR PACKAGES HERE