Home > Tours > Africa Tours > Grand African Journey

Grand African Journey

5.0/5 Based on 1 Reviews No Booking FeesDedicated Travel Advisor
Fully Guided Coach Group Wildlife Scenic
Sold Out
 Trip Length
28 Days
 Trip Starts
Cape Town
 Trip Finishes
Kilimanjaro
28 Day Grand African Journey Itinerary (Travelmarvel)
Countries Explored: South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana, Kenya, Tanzania
Trip Style
Land Journey
Accommodation
4 Star
Max. Group Size
40
Guide Level
Fully Guided
Trip Code
AFTKT28

Overview

Read reviews and enjoy exclusive savings on Travelmarvel's 28 Day Grand African Journey. Visit the best destinations in Africa including Cape Town, Victoria Falls and the Garden Route. See the African wilderness on a safari in the Masai Mara and Kruger National Park.

Itinerary

Start your journey in Cape Town, where we'll meet you on arrival and transfer you to your hotel, located close to the tourist-friendly V&A Waterfront precinct.

This evening, meet fellow guests and your Tour Director at a Welcome Reception. Stay Three Nights: Cape Town, Southern Sun Waterfront Hotel

A city alive with creativity, colour, sounds and tastes, be ready to fall in love with Cape Town. The magnetism of the city's icon, Table Mountain, takes hold as you ride the cableway up to its summit. Then, discover the intricacies of the city on an informative guided tour. During a free afternoon, perhaps choose to take a ferry to Robben Island, explore Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, join an African Heritage Tour or visit the Constantia Wine Valley. (B/D)

Insider Experience: Tonight, try your hand at African drumming, before indulging in a Welcome Dinner of Cape Malay cuisine.

Enjoy your Insider Experience before a leisurely evening to independently explore the lively V&A Waterfront. (B/L)

Insider Experience: Discover the breathtaking Cape Peninsula during a full-day tour. This scenic journey takes you along Chapman's Peak Drive to Cape Point. The most south-westerly tip of Africa, Cape Point is covered in endemic fynbos and home to bays, beaches and rolling green hills. Savour a light lunch before observing the penguins at Boulders Beach. Then, venture on to historic Simon's Town.

Farewell Cape Town this morning and travel through the Karoo region, discovering the scenery of a well-preserved semidesert eco-system.

Later, arrive at your hotel for a delicious dinner of local produce, including ostrich. Stay: Oudtshoorn, Surval Boutique Olive Estate (B/D)

This morning, discover the subterranean limestone formations of the Cango Caves. Afterwards, take part in your Insider Experience. Then, join the Garden Route towards the charming coastal town of Knysna, where you will revel in a free afternoon to spend however you please. Stay Two Nights: Knysna, Protea Hotel Knysna Quays (B)

Insider Experience: Tour an ostrich farm and come face-to-face with Africa's enormous flightless bird. You may wish to take the opportunity to feed an ostrich by hand.

This morning, perhaps join an optional boat tour from Plettenberg Bay, for the opportunity to view dolphins (April-May) or whales (June-October) and other wildlife native to the area (additional expense). Then, discover your Insider Experience. Cross the lagoon and join a park guide for a 4WD journey to the top of Western Head. Take some time to immerse yourself in the stunning view and later, perhaps embark on an optional bushwalk into ancient sea caves. (B)

Insider Experience: Visit Featherbed Nature Reserve, a pristine slice of paradise on the Western Head of Knysna, accessible only by ferry.

Depart Knysna and continue along the Garden Route near Plettenberg Bay. After your Insider Experience, continue along the Storms River Mouth and through Tsitsikamma Forest on the way to Port Elizabeth. Later, check into your hotel and have the rest of the day all to yourself. Stay: Port Elizabeth, Boardwalk Hotel (B)

Insider Experience: Make a stop to visit Monkeyland Primate Reserve, the world's first free-roaming, multi-species primate sanctuary. Gain a greater understanding of these various species of primates and learn about the challenges that these furry creatures face.

This morning, board an included flight to Kruger National Park via Johannesburg. Then, travel to a private designated area of land within Kruger National Park. Excitement reaches an all-time high as you head out on your first game drive through the lodge's private concession. Experience the thrill of searching for Africa's untamed wildlife in one of the nation's greatest game parks. Enjoy sundowners amid the breathtaking African bush, before having dinner back at your lodge this evening. Stay Two Nights: Kruger National Park, Shishangeni Private Lodge (B/L/D)

Signature Experiences:
  • Arrive at Shishangeni Private Lodge where you will stay for the next two nights, relaxing in your own thatched chalet with a private deck.

An exhilarating morning game drive delivers the chance to track down Africa's Big Five (rhinos, elephants, buffalos, lions and leopards), along with a host of other animals that call the park home. Then, during your leisure time perhaps relax by the pool or sit on the deck listening to the peaceful sounds of the bush. Afterwards, embark on your afternoon game drive. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: You're treated to a taste of South Africa tonight with an authentic outdoor boma dinner beneath the starlit sky.

Today, embark on your final early morning game drive. After, transfer to the airport for your flight back to Johannesburg. Settle into your accommodation for the night and have an evening at your leisure. You may choose to go out and explore the complex or relax in the hotel. Stay: Johannesburg, Peermont Mondior (B)

Take an included flight to the spectacular Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

This afternoon, set off on a walk where your guide will enlighten you on the history and culture of the local area. Then, transfer to your hotel and settle in for the night. Stay Two Nights: Victoria Falls, Victoria Falls Safari Lodge (B/D)

With a full day at leisure, perhaps enhance your journey by taking a helicopter or microlight flight, or head out on a magical sunset cruise (optional expense). Alternatively, take time to relax at your lodge with views across the idyllic landscape and waterhole. Receive frequent visits from your neighbours including elephants, impala and warthog to name a few. (B)

Cross the border into Botswana and later, arrive in the heart of Chobe National Park, home to the largest concentration of game in Africa. As the sun begins to set, head out on a sunset game-viewing cruise through the waterways. Traverse the wilderness at the best time of the day to see large herds of elephants, as well as a plethora of other animals that flock to the banks of the Chobe River.

Later, retreat to your modern bush-style accommodation, which sits at the doorstep of where four African countries meet: Botswana; Namibia; Zimbabwe; and Zambia. Stay Two Nights: Chobe National Park, Chobe Bush Lodge or upgrade to a suite on a Chobe Princess Houseboat (B/L/D)

Today, embark upon an enticing game drive adventure through the iconic Chobe National Park. Here, ensure you have your camera ready as you delight in the many chances to spot Africa's famous mammals, thanks to the park's high density of elephant herds and lion prides. At the end of the day, return to your lodge to reflect on your day with some down time and dinner. (B/L/D)

Return to Victoria Falls once more and take an included flight to Nairobi.

This evening, you'll meet your friendly East African Tour Director, who will provide you with an introduction to the next chapter of your incredible adventure into East Africa. Stay: Nairobi, 2.5.4 Ole Sereni Hotel (B)

It's time to explore the incredible country of Kenya. Your first stop is Amboseli National Park. The signature attraction here is spotting hundreds of elephants, set to the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. Bird watchers will also delight in knowing that 370 bird species can be spotted in the area. Arrive at Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge in time for lunch. Located in the heart of this world-famous national park, the lodge offers you the perfect base from which to embark on your Kenyan safari.

After lunch, begin an afternoon game drive to look for the Big Five, as well as hippos and a variety of waterfowl, which can be found near the park's wetlands. Sundowner drinks at Observation Hill rounds out a perfect first game drive in Amboseli National Park. You'll then return to the lodge to relax and savour an expertly prepared dinner. Stay Two Nights: Amboseli National Park, Amboseli Serena Safari Lodge (B/L/D)

Wake early to enjoy some tea and a snack in preparation for another exciting day. For this afternoon's game viewing, your expert game driver/tracker will be on hand to ensure that you are presented with the best opportunities possible to see the animals of Kenya. Experience a real highlight and have the chance to view elephants roaming against the backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro. While travelling in smaller groups today, you're able to get a closer vantage point to this fabulous wildlife show. In between game drives, you'll return to the lodge to relax and indulge in delicious meals. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: The morning takes you to a local Maasai village where you'll wander about the homes that the Maasai have built with their own hands. Delight in their unique and colourful jewellery and interact with the villagers to learn about their authentic daily life.

It's onto the next adventure as you take a short flight to Nairobi. Continue by 4WD to Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge, situated on a stunning range of hills that form the western limits of Africa's Great Rift Valley. Arrive just in time for lunch. You may also wish to take advantage of the lodge's beautiful surrounds and embark on a stunning nature walk around the property. The afternoon is all about wildlife spotting with a game drive.

Afterwards, enjoy dinner at your lodge this evening. Stay Two Nights: Lake Nakuru Sopa Lodge (B/L/D)

Bound by rocky escarpments and brimming with hordes of animals, a day of game drives at Lake Nakuru National Park offers yet another window into the life in Africa's animal kingdom. On the floor of the Great Rift Valley, surrounded by wooded and bushy grassland, this beautiful park will leave you spellbound.

This morning, look for rare white rhinos around the soda-encrusted lake at the centre of the park. Keep your eyes locked on the grassy plains in search of zebras, buffalo and graceful Rothschild's giraffes. If you're lucky, you may even spot an awe-inspiring leopard. Return to your lodge for lunch and time to relax before an afternoon game drive. (B/L/D)

Awake to the sounds of the African bush as you prepare to travel to your next destination. Soak up the dramatic landscapes of the Great Rift Valley, stretching from the Middle East all the way to Mozambique.

Onwards, you'll be greeted by the endless plains of the Masai Mara, a region famous for its big cat population including leopards, lions and cheetahs. The vast, open spaces provide excellent game viewing, which is why this reserve is one of the most well-regarded for wildlife in all of Africa. At certain times of the year, you may see enormous herds of wildebeest, gazelle and zebra travelling to and from the Serengeti in search of food during the seasonal Great Migration. Plus, you can also witness the predators who follow them.

This afternoon, head out on an exhilarating game drive, noticing how different these landscapes are compared to those that you experienced in Southern Africa. At the end of a thrilling day of exploration, perhaps unwind with a drink before sitting down to dinner this evening at your lodge. Stay Three Nights: Masai Mara, Fig Tree Camp (B/L/D)

Today presents the unique opportunity to enhance your journey and experience the Masai Mara from the skies on a magical hot-air balloon ride (optional expense). There is simply no better way to view these vast landscapes. Enjoy breakfast while you listen to the sounds of the bush as you get ready to head out on another captivating game drive.

The Masai Mara delivers those quintessential safari scenes of endless grassy plains, peppered with acacia trees and powerful predators who stalk unsuspecting prey. Thanks to your expert game driver/tracker, you'll enjoy a remarkable morning in the wild on the prowl for wildlife. Return to the lodge for a delicious lunch before a free afternoon. Take the chance to relax and unwind after a busy day of seeking out wildlife. (B/L/D)

Today presents the final opportunity to head out on exciting game drives to tick the final animals off your spotting list. Experience the beauty of an African sunrise and discover the morning rituals of the local wildlife during some tea and a snack ahead of today's first game drive. Afterwards, enjoy a leisurely breakfast before having the rest of the morning at leisure. This afternoon's game drive once again brings you plenty of chances to catch a close-up look at the animals that call the expansive grasslands of the Masai Mara, home. (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Delight in a memorable bush dinner this evening and experience the flavours of the region. As you dine under the African night sky, take a moment to reflect on the adventures so far.

Relish your final morning in the Masai Mara, then transfer to the airstrip and board your scheduled flight to the Tanzanian border. From here, embark on a connecting flight to the Serengeti and be transferred to your tented camp. Relax by the campfire before dinner, then retire to your tented room with an ensuite. Situated in an idyllic spot with the national park on your doorstep, there is no better place to sleep under the expansive African sky. Stay Two Nights: Serengeti National Park, Kati Kati Tented Camp (B/L/D)

Serengeti National Park is known for its predators who spend their days pursuing impalas, zebras, buffalo, gazelle and more. This morning, head out in search of these local inhabitants, armed with your camera ready to capture all that appears before you. Return to your camp for lunch before your afternoon game drive. Perhaps you will seek out some of the unique wildlife which may have been hiding this morning. (B/L/D)

Journey to Olduvai Gorge to explore one of the world's most important archaeological sites, dubbed ‘the Cradle of Mankind'. It is believed to be the site of the remains from the first human beings on Earth.

Continue on to your charming accommodation, set on a farm and coffee plantation, accompanied with views of the Oldeani Volcano. Stay Two Nights: Karatu, Ngorongoro Farm House (B/L/D)

Marvel at the lush, green scenery as you descend from the high crater walls of World Heritage-listed Ngorongoro Crater, the world's largest intact caldera. Enjoy a picnic lunch and go in search of the wildlife that roams this unique place, with most never leaving the crater floor. (B/L/D)

After your Insider Experience, explore Lake Manyara National Park, famous for its colourful flamingos and baboons which reside here. As you head off-road, keep an eye out for the tree-climbing lions, also known to inhabit the park. Continue on through to Arusha, where your accommodation for the night is nestled between the Usa River and a wildlife sanctuary. Tonight, enjoy dinner at your lodge. Stay: Arusha, Mount Meru Game Lodge (B/L/D)

Insider Experience: Travel to the tiny village of Mto wa Mbu to visit a local school and see what daily life is like for the students. This school is close to our hearts, and it is supported by our OneTomorrow Charitable Fund, so that the school can continue to flourish. You'll end the tour at a local restaurant where you can try a range of flavourful East African dishes.

Sadly, your journey through Africa draws to an end. After breakfast, transfer to Kilimanjaro airport for your onward flight home. (B)

Trip Inclusions

  • A private game park experience in Kruger National Park
  • Relish the opportunity to embark on up to 22 exciting game spotting activities
  • Witness the wonder of Victoria Falls
  • Meet the locals during a Maasai Village Experience

  • 27 nights in premium accommodation
  • Services of a Travelmarvel Tour Director, local guides and expert game trackers
  • All flights within Africa
  • Tipping, game park fees and transfers

  • 63 meals – 27 breakfasts (B), 17 lunches (L) and 19 dinners (D)

  • Itinerary and inclusions are subject to availability
  • Prices include tipping, transfers and all internal flights (including airport taxes, which are subject to change), as per itinerary and Flying Doctor Service in East Africa
  • For those wishing to seek extra time and touring in Cape Town, pre-tour accommodation and Select Experience touring is available. Please contact us for more information regarding your stay in Cape Town, prior to the commencement of this tour itinerary
  • Upgrade your journey with an optional sail on the Chobe Princess for two nights. Enquire for details
  • Perhaps extend your journey on the tour Cape Winelands (AFTW3). Enquire for details
  • Table Mountain Cableway closes annually for maintenance around late July-early August and during this period tours will include the Cape Town Wheel
  • Water levels at Victoria Falls vary across the year and levels cannot be guaranteed
  • Flights to and from Africa are not included

Trip Reviews (1) Most Recent 'Grand African Journey' Reviews

5.0
AVG. RATING 5.0 / 5
1 Review
5 Star
100%
4 Star
3 Star
2 Star
1 Star
Marvelous Travelmarvel tour to South and East Africa 0 , ACT, Australia, Sep 2019
Had a wonderful time travelling from Capetown to Tanzania, via a number of fantastic highlight experiences. Some of the most memorable bucket-list animal encounters you could ever imagine. Seeing 4 cheetah brothers posing for a National Geographic photo on a termite mound, then picking their way past the safari vehicles (so close you could have reached ...read more out and touched them) and staging a military precision hunt taking down two gazelles will never leave us. That was just one of several things that we treasure forever.
Play Youtube Video

Brochure

Africa

Travelmarvel Africa (2024)

Uncover the heart of Africa on a tour with Travelmarvel. Each journey seamlessly weaves iconic sights and authentic adventures into an unforgettable journey. Our Africa Specialist team has travelled extensively in order to create itineraries that exceed expectations. Our journeys shed new light on iconic attractions, steer away from the crowds to engage...more in local life, and provide incredible experiences.

Prices & Dates

There are currently no departures available on this trip. Either it's the end of the season and new departures will be released shortly, or this itinerary has been changed and will no longer continue. Feel free to contact us for information about when next seasons dates will be released or click here to view the general release dates for all destinations.

Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Prices and trip information are correct at the time at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by Travelmarvel. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from Travelmarvel. These should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.

Cities