Overview
Small groups lead to big experiences on this Small Group Discovery tour of Africa with a lion’s share of captivating cities, private game reserves, natural wonders, and wondrous wildlife? Point your compass south for the diverse and enchanting sights of South Africa and Zimbabwe. The glorious panoramas from Cape Town’s Table Mountain and the candy-hued streets of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood read more set the stage for the sweet sights to come.
Six open-air game drives in Kruger National Park offer a fascinating glimpse of up to 42 mammal species and 350 bird species. Keep your eyes peeled for the “Big 5”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo—before branching out in Johannesburg. Here, you’ll explore Soweto, the city’s largest township, including the former home of Nelson Mandela and the significant sites of the anti-apartheid movement.
Your South Africa vacation crescendos at Victoria Falls, called Mosi-oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders) on the Zambezi River. Twice the height of Niagara Falls, this breathtaking waterfall spanning the border of Zimbabwe and Zambia offers twice the photo ops. A Small Group Discovery tour for the wild mannered!
12 Days
Cape Town
Johannesburg
Small Group Discovery
4 - 4.5 Star
Premium
5-99 Years
24
Fully Guided
QS
Itinerary
Your Small Group Discovery Tour begins!
Welcome to Cape Town, commonly referred to as the “Mother City” by locals, as it was home to the first European settlement in South Africa. Hotel check-in is available mid-afternoon.
City Sights & Soaring Heights
Start at the Grand Parade to see the Castle of Good Hope and City Hall. Walk to see more of Cape Town's landmarks including St. George's Cathedral, Parliament, and The Company's Garden. Then, join a local community leader to explore the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, also known as the Malay Quarter, including a visit to the Bo-Kaap Community Center. After a traditional Malay lunch, enjoy a scenic cable-car ride to the top of Table Mountain for stunning 360-degree views over the city. Tonight, enjoy dinner at a popular local restaurant!
LOCAL FAVORITE - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Explore Cape Town's neighborhood that was founded by former slaves in the 1750s. Today, Bo-Kaap is a melting pot of cultures within its National Heritage sites. Stroll past vibrantly hued houses ranging from lime-green and pink to orange, reflective of Dutch and British architecture. Your Local Guide shares fascinating stories of this lively neighborhood where the aromas of fragrant spices waft from local restaurants and spice shops. Enjoy lunch with your small group, followed by a cable-car ride to take in the 360-degree views from the top of Table Mountain.
Rocky Coast & Beach Life
Take a scenic drive along stunning Chapman's Peak Drive en route to Cape Point Nature Reserve. Stop at the Cape of Good Hope before arriving at Cape Point. Ride a funicular to the steps of the old lighthouse with panoramic views of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans. After lunch at a local seafront restaurant, visit Boulders Beach to see a colony of endangered African penguins. Free time this evening.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - TUXEDO JUNCTION: Jackets aren't required on Boulders Beach, even though the residents look dressed to the hilt. The only penguins found on the continent, African penguins are known for the unique sound they make. Colonies can be found from southern Namibia all the way around the South African coast, and Boulders Beach is the premiere viewing spot.
Free to Wander
Full day at leisure for your own discoveries in this beautiful city.
ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: Today, consider exploring the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, take an excursion to the stunning Cape Winelands for wine tasting, or go whale watching in nearby Hermanus (June-December)
Operation Safari
Fly to the Kruger Mpumalanga Airport and transfer to your luxury tent camp located just outside the national park. Arrive in the home to an abundance of wildlife for a game drive to spot the “Big 5”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and Cape buffalo. Return to your lodge for Sundowners and dinner. Your visit here contributes to Endangered Wildlife Trust's Conservation Canine Project, aimed at training dogs to patrol, detect and track poachers and to the Lion Recovery Fund who works towards the rehabilitation of Lions and their habitats.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: Climb aboard your custom safari vehicle for an afternoon game drive with a skilled tracker and professional Ranger who share fascinating facts about this wildlife paradise, while helping to spot the majestic creatures who call the national park their home. Quench your thirst after today's safari with a traditional sundowner experience with cocktails in true safari tradition with your small group.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - ACCOMMODATION SPOTLIGHT: Staying in a luxury tent camp is the ultimate safari experience in South Africa. Go off-road to get close to the wildlife at Elephant Walk Tent Camp, a stylish camp featuring regional African cuisine, bar/lounge, pool, and game viewing opportunities on the Crocodile River. Each spacious tent features views from a private balcony, air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, safe, and a large ensuite bathroom!
Kruger Magic
Rise early for coffee, tea, and pastries before your morning game drive. Keep an eye out for big cats after their night of hunting. Other animals you may see include kudu, impala, giraffe, hippo, cheetah, spotted hyena, wildebeest, and more. Return for brunch late morning followed by time to relax at your lodge. Afternoon game drive with sundowner drinks.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - SMALL GROUP EXCLUSIVE: As the sun sets over the majestic landscape, enjoy a memorable happy hour in the bush in the nostalgic tradition of early safari explorers.
Spotting Skills
Sharpen your game-spotting skills on your morning and afternoon game drives. Watch for African buffalo, reintroduced to the area after an absence of more than 50 years, reuniting the “Big Five” to roam freely. After Sundowners and dinner, join a private astronomy chat and stargazing experience with a local expert.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - STARRY EYED: The night skies above the Kruger National Park area are a sight to behold, with vivid constellations that cover the sky with a blanket of twinkling stars against Africa's dark skies. Join a local expert for a private astronomy talk and look upward as we unveil the stellar secrets of the African night sky.
ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: When not on a game drive, do as the lions do with a rest in the heat of the day. Enjoy your lodge amenities, swim in the pool, kick back on a viewing deck or your private balcony to watch nearby wildlife.
A Jaunt to Joburg
Enjoy a final game drive this morning before boarding your flight from Kruger to Johannesburg. Free time late afternoon and evening.
From the Dark Enters Light
Guided sightseeing includes a visit to Soweto (Southwestern Township) with a local community member. Along the way, see the neighborhood that was home to two Nobel Peace Prize winners: Archbishop Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela. Visit Mandela House, where Nelson Mandela lived with his family from 1946 to around 1960, when he was forced underground to elude arrest. Also learn about the impact of his wife, Winnie Madikizela-Mandela, known as the “Mother of the Nation” and a formidable anti-apartheid activists.
After lunch at a local restaurant, visit Constitution Hill, a museum that tells the story of South Africa's journey to democracy.
LOCAL FAVORITE - A BEACON OF LIGHT: Soweto, the largest township in the country, is a part of South Africa's turbulent past, but this multicultural area is also a reflection of today and hope for tomorrow. Your Local Guide shares insightful stories as you see the Hector Pieterson Memorial and the former neighborhoods of Nobel Peace Prize winners, Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and Nelson Mandela, featuring the Mandela House—former home of the legendary human rights leader.
Zoom to Zimbabwe & Sunset Sensations
Fly to Zimbabwe and transfer to your hotel. Take a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River. The remainder of the evening is at your leisure.
TOUR HIGHLIGHT - THE RIVER WILD: Transfer to the Zambezi River's edge and board the cruise boat. You'll be treated like royalty as you take in the scenery and watch for wildlife while sipping and sampling from a selection of included drinks and canapés. Your cruise culminates in a spectacular African sunset!
Smoke on the Water
Take a guided walk at Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the smoke that thunders), as the locals call it, due to the clouds of mist produced by the cascading cataracts. Learn about the history of the falls and fascinating facts about the local flora and fauna with plentiful photo opportunities. Free time late morning and early afternoon. Tonight, your Tour Director hosts a farewell dinner on the banks of the Zambezi River, featuring a menu of African-fusion dishes using fresh local ingredients.
ENHANCE YOUR FREE TIME - EXPLORE MORE: Soar high above the falls on an optional helicopter ride or visit a nearby village to experience the local culture. Optional excursions are available for purchase at MyGlobus.
Safe travels until we meet again!
Fly to Johannesburg. Schedule departing flights after 7:30 pm.
Trip Inclusions
- Guided sightseeing in Cape Town includes a stroll along the Grand Parade past the landmarks of St. George's Cathedral, Parliament, and more
- Learn about the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood on a walk with a Local Guide and enjoy a traditional lunch
- Speed past the lines with the Fast Track pass up Table Mountain
- Visit Cape Point Nature Reserve and ride the funicular to the steps of the old lighthouse
- View the endangered Africa penguins at Boulders Beach
- 6 game drives in Kruger National Park, nightly Sundowners, and an astronomy stargazing experience
- Sightseeing in Johannesburg includes a walk with a Local Guide through Soweto, a visit to the Mandela House, and the Constitution Hill Museum
- Enjoy an evening cruise with drinks and canapés on the Zambezi
- Take a guided walk at thrilling Victoria Falls!
- 4-wheel-drive safari vehicle, limited to just 9 guests and equipped with an open roof for unfettered game viewing
- Hand selected hotels and safari lodge
- All internal flights!
- Breakfast daily, 5 lunches, 5 dinners
- Cape Town: Southern Sun The Cullinan (Superior First-Class):
Southern Sun The Cullinan offers travelers easy access to all that Cape Town has to offer including the popular Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Complementing the rich, cultural heritage of Cape Town through timeless architecture, the opulent décor creates a mood that is a world away from home, while service and attention to detail ensure your every need is taken care of. - Kruger National Park Area: Makalali Main Lodge (Superior First-Class):
Makalali Main Lodge is a newly built lodge located in Makalali Private Game Reserve. Enjoy the luxury of air-conditioned rooms with comfortable interiors of classic leather and wood furnishings. The central area is designed with rustic features that effortlessly bring outside elements indoors. The outside area is distinctively designed around the natural surrounds, with a spacious deck area built around indigenous trees that overlook a watering hole. This is the ideal spot to view wildlife and appreciate the scenery. The large crystal blue rim-flow pool is equally spectacular! Its comfortable chairs and sun-loungers create an inviting ambience. Enjoy an array of African cuisine in main dining area with its distinct fireplace that connects the bar lounge and dining area. - Kruger National Park Area: Elephant Walk Tented Camp (First-Class):
Nestled at the doorstep of the world-renowned Kruger National Park, Elephant Walk Tented Camp offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and wilderness. Situated at the Crocodile Bridge Gate, the most southern entrance to Kruger, our exclusive, brand-new safari camp offers breathtaking views across the Crocodile River and beyond. Whether you seek an immersive safari experience or a tranquil retreat in nature, Elephant Walk Tented Camp delivers the perfect balance of comfort and adventure. - Johannesburg: Sandton Sun & Towers (Moderate Deluxe):
Built in 1984, the hotel is every inch a grand property, offering guests the ultimate "red carpet experience". This is punctuated by staff who strive to provide superb VIP treatment for all who pass through the doors. Situated in Sandton, the heart of Johannesburg's new Central Business District, guests are perfectly located within easy reach of the city's finest entertainment and leisure amenities. - Victoria Falls: Ilala Lodge (Superior First-Class):
Ilala Lodge provides distinguished accommodation in a gracious and secluded ambiance. The hotel is the closest to Victoria Falls as well as the town center. Wild animals often graze on the hotel lawns with the spray of the falls in the background.
- Airport transfers at your arrival and departure destination are not included in the price of the tour.
- Itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and specified internal flights. International flights not included.
- For approximately one month each year (typically late July to mid-September), Table Mountain Aerial Cableway is closed for annual maintenance. In these instances, a private tour of Kirstenbosch National Garden will be included in its place.
- During the dry season (September-December) and particularly dry years, water flow to Victoria Falls may be low.
- All game viewing is done at your own risk and requires a signed liability waiver prior to travel.
- Due to rough driving on/off road and in/between game parks, this vacation is not recommended for guests with serious back problems or mobility issues.
Operator
At Globus, we understand that your holiday is your treat – a gift from you to you. Let us connect you with a new world of people, places and experiences that will ignite your imagination.
Globus includes all must-see national parks and game sites, with special VIP access that lets you skip to the front of the queue. Read more
Globus has the recipe for a great safari experience. Savour the flavours of Africa through its regional cuisine. Read more
Travel with expert Tour Directors and Local Guides who share their vast experience in game spotting & tracking. Read more
Globus' selection of lodges & camps provide a relaxing checkpoint to your safari experience. Read more
Get the best possible safari experience with Globus' range of custom-designed 4WD safari vehicles. Read more
Experience Africa like an insider with Local Favourites that you wouldn't find touring on your own. Read more
Trip Reviews (3)
We visited the Chetah Outreach and were fortunate enough to be able to pat one at the expensive price of approximately 10cents. We also saw meerkats and seals! We went to Bird World, quite rundown but amazing birds to see. Next we saw the Jackass Penguins and even though the rain was annoying and very wet we actually got to see a penguin chick hatch. After leaving Cape Town we flew to Hoedspruit and then drove to Makalali Game Reserve where we ventured into the wilderness. I celebrated my birthday in style seeing a giraffe at the waterhole right beside our Jeep. Best present ever. Our driver was Lewis and Anton our Tracker. I ‘m sure we had the best crew! During our six safaris lasting about 3 hours each we were privileged to see, Giraffes, Lions, Cape Buffalo, Elephants, Hippopotamuses, Leopards, Rhinos, Elan, Kudus, Wart Hogs, Zebra, Hyena, Hunting Dogs, Honey Badger and more not to mention the numerous species of birds including the Horn Bill. Like the Lion King all over. The accommodation was to die for, outdoor shower and all!
Next we travelled to Johannesburg, visiting Nelson Mandela’s House, and the Museum. Also the slums, it was definitely a eye opener for us! Following 2 days there we flew to Victoria Falls. The Elephants wandered the front yard of the hotel grounds. You could hear the Falls thundering the distance. The mist in the morning from them could almost be felt on the room balcony. We walked across part of the front of the Falls and then headed back to enjoy a helicopter ride over the Falls and down the river, we had a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River and spotted a crash of Hippos frolicking in the water. It was very sad to leave and head back to Johannesburg. Then home. An absolutely amazing time was had by us both!!
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Globus Small Group Discoveries (2026-27)
Enjoy front-row views of legendary sites more such as the Eiffel Tower, the Grand Tetons and Nagoya Castle. Skip the queues with VIP entry, and immerse yourself in stories that bring rich history and vibrant cultures to life. With nearly 100 years of expertise, hand-selected hotels, expert Tour Directors and worry-free travel, Globus delivers the ultimate touring experience – now with the added benefit of smaller groups for bigger discoveries. This is Touring. Beyond. Don’t just see the world. Tour it with Globus Small Group Discoveries.
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