If you, too, believe that the journey is as important as the destination, you will know that there is no better way to experience a country than to bike, hike or kayak through its varied landscapes. This tour promises an interaction with the Big 5, migrating whales at the Southern tip of Africa, five distinct reserves through breathtaking landscapes including the Karoo, the Coastal Wetlands, the Addo Bush, the Middle Veld and finally the Kruger Bushveld. And unforgettable experiences in our host country, South Africa.
Schedule - Day 1Arrive by shuttle at Cape Grace, the premier hotel in the Cape Town. Explore the bustling V&A Waterfront or just unwind before the start of your cycling safari in Africa!
Schedule - Day 2We hike up Table Mountain for a bird's eye view of one of the most beautiful cities in the world, before enjoying a leisurely picnic under the trees in the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, on the slopes of Table Mountain.
Schedule - Day 3Discover Cape Point by bicycle and visit the delightfully rural, tucked-away hamlet of Kommetjie.
Schedule - Day 4We leave the elegant Cape Grace behind and head into the dramatic landscapes of the Karoo. Cycle the last 25 km into the Sanbona Wildlife Reserve, home to the only free-roaming white lions in the world, where we will stay at the luxury tented lodge 'Dwyka'. Come hike with us and uncover the fascinating history of the San bushman art.
Schedule - Day 5We shuttle via Perdepoort Pass to Oudtshoorn, jewel of the Little Karoo and synonymous with ostriches. If you feel more adventurous, cycle some distance along the panoramic Montagu Pass. Our next destination, via shuttle, is Lake Pleasant Living near Knysna.
Schedule - Day 6Lake Pleasant Living is located in a wetlands area and is a great base from which to explore the natural beauty of the Garden Route. Here we kayak along the lakes, walk to a waterfall and cycle 30 km along the backroads to explore the countryside around the untouched Ruigtevlei. And after a busy day, what better way to relax than with sundowners on the beach!
Schedule - Day 7After breakfast we leave for Knysna, where we take a walk through the quaint village of Thessens Island, before cycling down from The Heads. A heritage walk will uncover facts about the days when elephants roamed the forests around this town. Which is a good time to head to Shamwari Game Reserve, home to the Big 5 and undisputed highlight of your holiday.
Schedule - Day 8We join our ranger on an early game drive and discover not only the Big 5, but also the smaller plains game, plant life and fantastic birding that make up the 25,000 hectares of land you are about to explore. After breakfast, we cycle to the rehabilitation and wildlife centre at Shamwari, to see the important work that takes place here.
Schedule - Day 9After a game walk with our ranger, it is time to relax... visit the spa for a treatment or simply enjoy the vistas before we leave for Oceana Beach & Wildlife Reserve, a mere hour's drive away.
Schedule - Day 10At Oceana, with its 7 km stretch of private beach and unspoilt natural vegetation, you will have time to relax and unwind... or to be as active as you choose. Join us on the Three Sisters beach walk, a bush walk or some horse-riding in the surf... or sit outside your room and watch the whales!
Schedule - Day 11Your African safari has almost come to an end... so take another leisurely stroll and tip your toes in the Indian Ocean one last time before shuttling to the airport for your connecting flights home... and tuck your safari memories safely in your heart until you return to our shores!
Included:
- All accommodation.
- All breakfasts, lunches and picnics and all dinners except for one, when you'll have the opportunity to sample local fare on your own.
- Expertise and services of our experienced guides.
- Snacks and beverages between meals.
- Additional guides and experts from the region on all trips.
- Van shuttles to support a variety of route options.
- Comprehensive Travel Planner with detailed pre-trip information.
- Private guided tours at museums, historic sites, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the Travel Planner.
- Special events, including wine tastings and other select attractions as mentioned in the Travel Planner.
- On biking and multisport trips use of fully equipped Bike and Saddle composite bike plus helmet and accessories.
- Equipment and experienced guides for kayaking, rafting, snorkeling, sailing, horse riding and canoeing as described.
- Park and other entry fees.
- Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the Travel Planner.
- Select coach transfers.
- Baggage transfers and porterage.
- Bike and Saddle water bottle and T-Shirt.
Not Included:
- Airfare, alcoholic beverages (we provide wine at select events), gratuities for Trip Leaders and personal expenses.