8-Day Journey: Safari, Cellars & City Lights

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From the thrilling Big 5 sightings in Sabi Sand, to a taste of wine country in Franschhoek, and the vibrant pulse of Cape Town, this itinerary blends luxury, nature, and culture in perfect harmony.

Day 1: Arrival in the wild

Your adventure begins with a flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit, where you’ll be met and transferred to Arathusa Safari Lodge, nestled in the exclusive Sabi Sand Game Reserve.

Check into your elegant water-facing suite, where the sounds of the bush and the tranquil view of the waterhole set the tone for your stay. That afternoon, set off on your first game drive with expert rangers and trackers guiding your journey through Big 5 territory.

Return to the lodge for a gourmet dinner under the African stars, a fitting welcome to the wild.

Days 2–3: Immersed in safari magic

Each day begins with a gentle wake-up and morning refreshments before heading out on an early game drive, when wildlife is most active. Expect thrilling encounters with lions, elephants, leopards, and more.

After a well-earned breakfast back at the lodge, enjoy some leisure time - whether lounging by the pool, relaxing at the spa, or watching wildlife from your suite.

In the late afternoon, enjoy high tea/snacks before heading out for another safari experience, timed for golden hour photography and the magic of dusk in the bush. Return to the lodge for cocktails and dinner, sharing stories by the fire.

Day 4: Journey to the Cape Winelands

After your final morning drive and breakfast, you'll be transferred to Hoedspruit Airport for your flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival, a scenic transfer will bring you to Rickety Bridge Estate, a charming wine estate nestled in the Franschhoek Valley. Settle into your suite and enjoy an afternoon exploring the estate, sampling fine wines, or discovering the heritage-rich town of Franschhoek nearby.

Optional wine tastings and vineyard walks complete this relaxed and indulgent day in South Africa’s culinary capital.

Day 5–7: Cape Town Sophistication

The following morning, you’ll transfer to Cape Town for a stay at The Onyx Apartment Hotel, a modern and stylish retreat in the heart of the city. Your location puts you within easy reach of Table Mountain, the V&A Waterfront, Bo-Kaap, and other iconic landmarks. Spend your days exploring the city's vibrant neighborhoods, world-class cuisine, and breathtaking coastal scenery.

To enrich your experience, speak to your travel expert to arrange guided tours to places like Robben Island, Cape Point, or the penguin colony at Boulders Beach. The Mother City is yours to discover.

Day 8: Farewell to South Africa

Enjoy a final breakfast before your private transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your onward journey.

You leave with unforgettable memories, from the raw beauty of the bush and the refined elegance of the Winelands to the vibrant soul of Cape Town.

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Location and getting there

Please note that all itineraries can be tailored to meet your specific needs. We can easily adjust the length of your stay or include additional destinations upon request.

Rates & Pricing

  • Arathusa Safari Lodge: 3 Nights in 4-star in Sabi Sand Game Reserve
  • Arathusa Safari Lodge: All meals and house wines, beers and spirits; teas & coffees
  • Arathusa Safari Lodge: 2 Daily game drives in open vehicles and a guided bush walks
  • Rickety Bridge Estate: 1 Night in 5-star in Franschhoek
  • Rickety Bridge Estate: Daily breakfast and a wine tasting session
  • The Onyx Hotel: 3 Nights in 4-star in Cape Town
  • The Onyx Hotel: Daily breakfast
  • Round-trip Transfer from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) to Arathusa Safari Lodge
  • Transfer from Cape Town Airport (CPT) to Rickety Bridge Estate
  • Transfer from Rickety Bridge Estate to The Onyx Hotel
  • Transfer from The Onyx Hotel to Cape Town Airport (CPT)
  • Flight from OR Tambo Airport (JNB) to Hoedspruit Airport (HDS)
  • Flight from Hoedspruit Airport (HDS) to Cape Town Airport (CPT)
Dec 1st, 2025
to
Dec 19th, 2025
All accommodation, meals, and activities mentioned above are included.
ZAR
63345
ZAR
63345
ZAR
Dec 20th, 2025
to
Dec 31st, 2025
All accommodation, meals, and activities mentioned above are included.
ZAR
65182
ZAR
65182
ZAR
Jan 1st, 2026
to
Jan 5th, 2026
All accommodation, meals, and activities mentioned above are included.
ZAR
66383
ZAR
66383
ZAR
Jan 6th, 2026
to
January 31, 2026
All accommodation, meals, and activities mentioned above are included.
ZAR
64545
ZAR
64545
ZAR
  • The rate is for the complete package, per person.
  • A single supplement may apply for solo travellers.
  • We offer a price match guarantee; please contact us for details.
  • Consult our safari specialists for the best available rates and offers.

SEAMLESS SAFARI PROMISE

Since 2006, we’ve arranged unforgettable safaris for over 58,000 travellers, handling every detail with precision. Learn more about our Seamless Safari Promise

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Meet our resident safari specialist

Get in touch with Nerine, who can book all aspects of your trip including flights, lodging and transfers. For fastest response get in touch on WhatsApp.
Nerine Du Plessis

What our guests say about Nerine

February 6, 2026
Great service
Nerine was very communicative and responsive, answering all my questions and giving me a number of great options for safaris.
craig norris
,
US
February 6, 2026
Great experience planning our trip
We have just finished finalizing our trip with safari.com. Our agent was Nerine Du Plessis. She made our planning so easy. All our questions and concerns were answered in such a timely manner. We gave her our wishes and she came back to us with a very exciting itinerary. Now just have to wait until we get to do our safari.
Kathy Ellis
,
CA
February 3, 2026
Last minute booking
We are living abroad in Australia, heading on a last minute trip to South Africa. We reached out to Safari.com and were allocated Nerine Du Plessis as our consultant. Nerine was so great in helping us to organise this trip with only 5 weeks until departure/arrival in South Africa. Nerine has been incredibly prompt in her responses, articulate in the requirements and easy to communicate with. So far, we can't fault our experience.
Claire Bagnall
,
AU
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