South African Safari Splendour

Day 1 - Thursday 10 September 2026

Melbourne - Sydney - Johannesburg (in-flight meals, D)

Welcome to Sisterhood Womens Travel. 

Join your tour hostess and fellow travellers at the Melbourne airport for our flight to Johannesburg. 

Please sit back, relax and enjoy the in-flight entertainment of the airlines as we head towards South Africa.

Upon arrival into Johannesburg, we'll transfer to our hotel to relax and refresh.

Dinner tonight in the hotel restaurant.

Overnight - Southern Sun Rosebank Johannesburg (or similar)

Day 2 - Friday 11 September 2026

Full Day Soweto Tuk-Tuk Tour (B, L)

Today, after breakfast, we begin our adventure by enjoying a full-day Soweto Tour by tuk-tuk. The tour starts at the panoramic viewpoint atop ‘Leboland’, where visitors are surrounded by pumpkin fields from the community garden and the lush greenery of the campsite, offering a 360-degree view of Soweto.  Here, the guide provides insights into the area's history and current community initiatives. From this vantage point, visitors can spot landmarks such as the Orlando Towers and Orlando Stadium.

Next, the tour proceeds to the former men’s hostel in Mzimhlophe, once home to migrant mine workers during the apartheid era. Guests learn about the history of gold mining in Gauteng, the harsh conditions endured by the workers, and witness the area's development today.

Continuing towards Orlando West and the famed Vilakazi Street precinct, the tour makes quick stops to support local traders, sampling delicacies and refreshments along the way.  The next stop is the Hector Peterson memorial site, dedicated to the Soweto Uprising of June 16, 1976, when students protested the apartheid government’s education system in Black schools. Afterwards, the tour proceeds down Vilakazi Street, stopping outside Nelson Mandela’s house to delve into the life and legacy of this leader.  Throughout the tour route, we'll be introduced to various local businesses and entrepreneurs. We'll have the opportunity to explore fashion, crafts, souvenirs, coffee shops, health products, and more, supporting the vibrant local economy and community spirit.

Dinner at leisure tonight. Your tour hostess will arrange a venue.

Overnight - Southern Sun Rosebank Johannesburg (or similar)

Day 3 - Saturday 12 September 2026

Johannesburg - Victoria Falls (B, AT, D)

This morning, we will transfer to Johannesburg Airport for our flight to Victoria Falls. Upon arrival, we'll be met and transferred to our hotel..

Victoria Falls, where the “Smoke that Thunders” inspires all who stand in its regal glory.  The area is renowned for activities such as white-water river rafting, canoeing, helicopter flights, zip-lining, bungee jumping, and fishing.  Other local attractions include golf and guided game safaris.

This afternoon, a special treat - afternoon tea at the iconic Victoria Falls Hotel.

This evening, we'll enjoy a Boma Dinner, indulging in both a cultural and a culinary experience.  The menu comprises a range of traditional Zimbabwean dishes complemented by a delicious barbecue buffet.  The ambience is created by local Shangaan dancers and singers who entertain during the meal, and a traditional storyteller adds an extra element of intrigue and drama to the evening.  The sound of the drums reverberates through the stillness of the African night.

Overnight -  Ilala Lodge, Deluxe Room, Victoria Falls 

Day 4 - Sunday 13 September 2026

Victoria Falls (B, L)

This morning, enjoy a guided tour of the Falls.

No surprise that Victoria Falls is one of the seven Natural Wonders of the World.  Understand it instantly with a tour on the Zimbabwean side, for there are numerous spectacular vantage points along the width of the Falls, and the sight of this astounding gift of nature takes your breath away.  Walk through the permanent, beautifully misty rain forest which flanks the Falls, stopping to marvel at the principal sites as it cascades to the depths below the Main Falls, Horseshoe Falls, Rainbow Falls, the Boiling Pot, Cataract Island and Livingstone Island.  Stand and watch, feel and listen to the spray and thunderous noise, as millions of litres of water tumble over the Falls into a series of narrow gorges below.  The seventh Natural Wonder of the World puts on the most dramatic show.

This afternoon, we'll visit Chinotimba township, where we will be hosted by a local family in their residence and served a traditional African homemade meal. The authentic home-cooked meal includes sadza or rice as the main dish, together with beef or chicken stew, kapenta, Soya chunks, mopane worms, kale, and pumpkin leaves.  Grilled potatoes and a green salad complete the dishes.  Seasonal traditional fruits, mazoe orange crush and tea are also served.  Don't feel like you must try it all, but it will be great fun if you do.

Later this afternoon, we'll enjoy a lovely sunset cruise aboard Zambezi Explorer's Signature Deck, including canapes and beverages.  Pure Africa’s reimagined River Cruise brings a new level of sophistication to Victoria Falls.  Uniquely designed, the upper ‘Signature Deck’ is utter sophistication, and we'll be encouraged to relax into the deep-set couches that reflect the earthy tones and river blues found in the surroundings.  Enjoy uninterrupted views from the 6m elevation, delicious canapés and the service of a dedicated mixologist.  A range of our Pure Africa wines, craft beer and artisanal spirits is also available throughout.  Cruising along the Zambezi River is an experience that creates lasting memories and may include sightings of hippos, crocodiles, and other species that congregate on the banks to quench their thirst.  As the sun sets, head back to the Pure Africa Waterfront. 

Dinner at leisure tonight - your tour hostess will arrange a venue.

Overnight -  Ilala Lodge, Deluxe Room, Victoria Falls 

Day 5 - Monday 14 September 2026

Victoria Falls - Kasane - Chobe National Park (B, D)

This morning we'll travel to Kasane for our two-night stay, inclusive of 2 activities of our choice:
3-hour Morning or Afternoon Game Drive in the Chobe National Park
3-hour Sunset Cruise on the Chobe River
2-hour Morning Private Cruise on the Chobe River
OR
2-hour Fishing on the Chobe River

Chobe National Park, in Botswana’s stunning north, is where nature’s drama unfolds in breathtaking style. For women travelling together, it’s an extraordinary experience — a perfect blend of raw beauty, gentle connection, and shared awe. Imagine cruising along the Chobe River at sunset as elephants wade through golden waters, or setting out on an early-morning game drive as the savannah awakens with life. Chobe is home to Africa’s largest elephant population, along with lions, leopards, hippos, and a dazzling array of birdlife. Here, adventure feels safe yet thrilling — an unforgettable immersion into the rhythm of the wild, best shared with new friends.

Dinner tonight at our lodge.

Overnight - Chobe Safari Lodge (Bush Room)

Day 6 - Tuesday 15 September 2026

Chobe National Park (B, L, D)

Today, we can enjoy our game drives whilst enjoying lunch and dinner at our Lodge.

Overnight - Chobe Safari Lodge (Bush Room)

Day 7 - Wednesday 16 September 2026

Kasane - Mpumalanga (B, D)

After breakfast, we'll check out and transfer to the Victoria Falls Airport for our flight to Mpumalanga. Upon arrival, we'll check into our accommodation - the Hippo Hollow Country Estate.

Hippo Hollow Country Estate is an African oasis set in indigenous gardens on the outskirts of Hazyview.  Minutes away from the famous Kruger National Park, this country estate is perfectly positioned and overlooks the Sabie River.  After traversing the African bush on game drives, you can relax on a hammock in the garden by the pool and watch as hippo, crocodile and other wildlife congregate at the river.  Food is an art form at Hippo Hollow Country Estate and has been paired expertly with some of the finest South African wines.  Emphasis is on the estate's utter contentment while showcasing Africa’s distinctive natural beauty.

Dinner tonight at our Estate.

Overnight - Hippo Hollow Estate (or similar)

Day 8 - Thursday 17 September 2026

Mpumalanga - Kapama Game Reserve (B, L, D)

After breakfast, we'll transfer to Kapama River Lodge via the Panorama Route. Journey to the best of the best, visiting the legendary Blyde River Canyon, the third largest in the world, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and enjoy the never-ending Lowveld landscape from the ledge of God's Window before arriving in time for lunch at the lodge at Kapama Game Reserve for a three-night stay on a fully inclusive basis.  

Dinner at our Lodge tonight.

Overnight - Kapama River Lodge (or similar)

 

Day 9 - Friday 18 September 2026

Kapama Game Reserve (B, L, D)

Today, it's all about the animals with morning and afternoon game activities offered by Kapama Game Reserve.

The Kapama Game Reserve is a slice of African paradise, a 13,000 hectare slice.  It consists of savannah and riverine forest and is where the mighty Drakensberg Mountains can be seen in the distance and the icon that is the Kruger National Park is to the east.  Kapama Game Reserve is home to Africa’s most famous wildlife, the Big Five: lion, elephant, buffalo, rhino and leopard, and both game drives and bush walks are offered.  This reserve not only provides a chance to get well acquainted with the wild spirit of Africa, but also features a selection of luxurious safari lodges with decadent African spa treatments, romantic sleep-outs, and mouth-watering cuisine.  This safari experience is all-encompassing.

Dinner at our Lodge tonight.

Overnight - Kapama River Lodge (or similar)

Day 10 - Saturday 19 September 2026

Kapama - Cape Town (B)

This morning, one last game drive to enjoy before returning for breakfast and a late morning checkout to fly to Cape Town.

Upon arrival to Cape Town we'll transfer to our hotel along the Waterfront. The Commodore Hotel is an iconic hotel in the V&A Waterfront in Cape Town.  It is in the centre of all of the city’s greatest highlights including the famous Table Mountain cable car.  The interior of the Commodore Hotel is a nautical theme that can be seen throughout and is somewhat fitting being in close proximity to the harbour and the Atlantic Ocean.  

Dinner at your leisure tonight — your tour hostess will arrange a venue.

Overnight - The Commodore Hotel (or similar)

Day 11 - Sunday 20 September 2026

Full Day Robben Island, Table Mountain & City Tour (B)

This morning, we'll start our day with a visit to one of the most famous prisons in the world, Robben Island.  This is where South Africa’s father of the nation spent 18 years —the legend, Nelson Mandela.  Disembark at Murray’s Harbour on the east coast of the island and take a short walk to the buses that will transport you to all of the historically significant sites.  The guides inside the prison today are former political prisoners, and their knowledge of this island is unparalleled, adding a unique cultural layer to this experience.  The tour culminates with a viewing of Nelson Mandela’s cell. 

Please note: Robben Island requires guests to present identification when boarding the ferry to visit the island.  All visitors need to present a passport, birth certificate or driver's licence.

Next, we'll take a trip to the top of the world, high above the clouds on the famous Table Mountain (weather permitting).  Table Mountain is an icon in Cape Town and is most likely the most photographed landmark in the country.  Table Mountain has been named as on the seven wonders of nature and attracts millions over visitors from all across the globe, in fact, since the opening of the aerial cableway in 1929, more than 22 million people have taken the trip to the top.  At the upper cable station, guests will find a restaurant, a curio shop, and some footpaths for exploration.

Next, we explore South Africa’s exciting “Mother City” on a guided tour of Cape Town's historical and cultural sights.  Step into the city's rich history, passing key monuments and places of interest, such as the impressive Castle of Good Hope and Cape Town City Hall.  Stop at the beautiful St George’s Cathedral, pass through the lush Company Gardens, and explore a cultural hub of Cape Town, the Bo Kaap, also known as the Cape Malay Quarter.  A tour of this vibrant city, home to street markets of every kind, cosmopolitan and rustic eateries, and a host of cultures, is an unforgettable experience.

Dinner at your leisure tonight — your tour hostess will arrange a venue.

Overnight - The Commodore Hotel (or similar)

Day 12 - Monday 21 September 2026

Cape Peninsula Full Day Tour (B, D)

Today we'll enjoy a full day tour of Cape Peninsula, including Chapman’s Peak (weather permitting), Cape of Good Hope, Cape Point Funicular, Boulders Beach (Penguins) and Kirstenbosch Gardens.

The road out of town takes us to Chapman’s Peak along Chapman’s Peak Drive, one of the most spectacular marine drives in the world.  Locals call this famous scenic drive that winds its way between picturesque Hout Bay and Noordhoek on Cape Town’s stunning Atlantic Ocean coastline “Chappies”.  The toll route stretches nine kilometres along the coast, taking 114 curves in a road carved out by prisoners of war in the mid-1910s over a seven-year period.  On the one side are towering cliffs, and on the other a steep drop to the ocean.  A favourite with visitors and locals alike for scenic hikes, cycles and drives, as well as picnicking.

The famous Cape of Good Hope nature reserve, a World Heritage site, is set at the end of Cape Town’s south peninsula.  Take a trip via funicular to the lighthouse at 286 metres above sea level (built to warn ships they are approaching the feared “Cape of Storms”), stroll along the cliff paths or venture down the steep slopes to the stunning white-sand beaches below.  

The reserve is home to a variety of small wildlife and is a favoured picnicking, fishing (with a permit) and hiking destination with its rich plant biodiversity and inspiring landscapes.

We return to Cape Town via Boulders Beach, home of the endangered land-based colony of African penguins, and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, set up against Cape Town’s iconic Table Mountain.  It is the first botanical garden to be included within a natural World Heritage site.

This evening, we'll enjoy a 14-dish dinner at the Gold Restaurant.

Overnight - The Commodore Hotel (or similar)

Day 13 - Tuesday 22 September 2026

Free Day in Cape Town (B)

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. 

Dinner at leisure tonight - your Tour Hostess will arrange a venue.

Overnight - The Commodore Hotel (or similar)

Day 14 - Wednesday 23 September 2026

Cape Town - Stellenbosch (B, L, D)

This morning, we depart Cape Town for the Cape Winelands. Stellenbosch is often described as the crown jewel of the Cape Winelands. It is a world-class wine, art, and hospitality destination, with exceptional examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian, and Victorian architecture along its oak-lined streets.  It is the second-oldest town in South Africa, founded in 1679, and also boasts being the oldest wine route in the country. Stellenbosch also has a youthful exuberance thanks to the prestigious University. 

Today, it has a wealth of wine estates that beckon with the promise of pleasing palates as well as art galleries, designer boutiques and fascinating museums. Gastronomy is an art form in Stellenbosch and plates are usually masterpieces of passion and creativity. Stellenbosch is a sight to behold, and there are several hiking trails in the Jonkershoek Nature Reserve for those who want to immerse themselves in the landscape. Enjoy a tour of the town.

Visit Fairview Wine Estate for a wine and cheese tasting followed by lunch at The Goatshed Restaurant. Their world-renowned tasting room features four unique, barrel-shaped 'pods' that foster a more welcoming, social tasting.  The custom-designed pods offer a tasting selection of 6 different wines with dedicated hosts to guide and assist guests.  The tasting also includes an expertly paired selection of 6 Fairview cheeses made from cow and goat's milk.

Return to Stellenbosch and check in to the hotel for an overnight stay including breakfast.  The remainder of the afternoon is at leisure.

This evening, we'll enjoy our farewell dinner at De Volkskombuise Restaurant

Accommodation - Southern Sun De Wagen, Stellenbosch (or similar)

Day 15 - Thursday 24 September 2026

Stellenbosch - Cape Town - Johannesburg (B)

Say goodbye to South Africa as we enjoy one last breakfast, then check out and head to Cape Town Airport to begin our journey home. Flying via Johannesburg and Sydney, sit back, relax, and enjoy the in-flight entertainment on our airlines as we reminisce about great times shared with friends.

Day 16 - Friday 25 September 2026

Welcome home!

Welcome Home! 

We'll arrive late afternoon into Melbourne.

Thank you for travelling with Sisterhood Womens Travel and we look forward to welcoming you back for your next adventure!