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Upon arrival, we visit the Apartheid Museum to explore South Africa’s history, from racial segregation to Nelson Mandela’s release. The exhibit focuses on the apartheid struggle, ending with the first democratic elections. Through original materials, eyewitness accounts, photos, and film, it offers a powerful experience. The rest of the afternoon is free for leisure.

After breakfast, we depart for the Highveld, following the Panorama Route to Kruger National Park, one of South Africa’s most scenic drives. We pass the stunning Blyde River Canyon, a 20-mile-long gorge with amazing rock formations and breathtaking views. Our hotel for the next three nights is set in lush forest along the Sabie River, on the edge of the National Park. Dinner is included tonight.

In Kruger, embark on a full-day game drive in 10-seat 4x4s, exploring savannahs, rivers with hippos, and waterholes, guided by expert rangers. The next day, relax by the pool or spot hippos by the river, or opt for river rafting (weather permitting), a sunset/night safari by spotlight, or an exclusive overnight stay at a tented camp with a bushwalk, available to a limited number of travel guests.

Today is at leisure to relax by the hotel pool or spot hippos from the lawn overlooking the river. Alternatively, try river rafting (weather permitting), or join a sunset or night safari for a thrilling game drive by spotlight in an open 4×4 vehicle. Exclusively for Riviera Travel guests, a limited number of places are available to stay overnight at a tented camp and enjoy a bushwalk.

After breakfast, we visit the Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift battlefields of the Zulu Wars. At Isandlwana, a British force of 1,300 was overwhelmed by 20,000 Zulus in 1879, while at Rorke’s Drift, 140 British soldiers held off 4,000 Zulus for over ten hours, earning eleven Victoria Crosses. Our expert Zulu guide will bring these historic encounters to life. Lunch is included, and we return to our hotel in the afternoon.

Fly from Johannesburg to George in the Western Cape, located at the heart of the beautiful Garden Route. After breakfast, we take a short drive to the coastal town of Mossel Bay, where we stay at the Diaz Hotel. Spend the afternoon exploring the area before enjoying dinner at a local restaurant. It’s the perfect introduction to the stunning scenery of the Western Cape.

We depart for Knysna and take a ferry across the lagoon to Featherbed Nature Reserve. Exploring by 4×4, we stop at scenic viewpoints and learn about the wildlife and history. After a guided walk, enjoy a buffet lunch under milkwood trees (or at a Knysna restaurant from May to August). You’ll have free time to explore Knysna afterward.

Enjoy a scenic drive through the Cape’s Winelands before continuing to Hermanus, known as the world’s best spot for onshore whale watching, typically between July and November. Watch in awe as these magnificent whales move gracefully through the water, offering a truly unforgettable experience. Stay at Pearl Valley Hotel in this charming town during your visit.

Today, we explore the beautiful Winelands, with vineyards and historic Cape Dutch wineries set against majestic mountains. Our first stop is Stellenbosch, a 300-year-old town home to South Africa’s prestigious university, where we enjoy a cellar tour and tasting at Neethlingshof Wine Estate. We then visit Franschhoek and end the day with a South African BBQ or Cape Malay buffet dinner at our hotel.

Start the day at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, home to 7,000 plant species and stunning sculptures on Table Mountain’s slopes. Afterward, return to Cape Town for free time near the vibrant V&A Waterfront. The next day, visit the Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point, and see Boulders Beach’s penguins.

Day 14 back in Cape Town, explore its British, Dutch, and Cape Malay heritage, shop, dine, or visit Table Mountain or Robben Island.

Enjoy a leisurely morning in Cape Town before boarding the Rovos Rail in the afternoon. Settle into your luxurious cabin aboard the vintage, wood-paneled train, free from radios and TVs, allowing you to relax completely. As we journey through the Winelands, enjoy afternoon tea in the Lounge and Observation cars. Later, listen for the gong signaling dinner, and indulge in a delicious meal featuring fresh, local ingredients.

After breakfast, we arrive at Matjiesfontein, a historic village founded in 1884 by Scottish railwayman James Douglas Logan. Once a popular Victorian health spa, it’s now a living museum with charming architecture. Explore the railway station museum, which includes the station master’s office and vintage cars, such as two Royal Daimlers. We then continue through the vast Karoo, a semi-desert region offering stunning views of open plains and changing landscapes.

Wake up to the breathtaking African landscape and enjoy a peaceful morning with a delicious breakfast as the train rolls through stunning scenery. Afterward, we visit Kimberley, a town with a rich diamond-mining history. Explore the iconic Kimberley Big Hole, a 700-foot excavation, and discover the town’s diamond legacy at the Diamond Museum, showcasing the hardships and triumphs of miners since the 1866 diamond rush.

Enjoy your final meal onboard the Rovos Rail before disembarking for a sightseeing tour of Pretoria. Explore the city’s historic buildings, landmarks, and lush neighborhoods adorned with jacaranda trees. After a relaxing afternoon, it’s time to say goodbye and start your journey home, cherishing the unforgettable memories of your trip.