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Ultimate South Africa Whale-Watching Special Departure

From £4,779
Duration 18 Days
Departures from: Sep 2027 - Sep 2028
Book Now
From £4,779
Duration 18 Days
Departures from: Sep 2027 - Sep 2028

Tour Overview

Discover the very best of South Africa on this all-encompassing tour. Beginning in Cape Town, take the cable car up Table Mountain and enjoy a tour of the Cape Peninsula which includes a visit to Cape Point and Boulders Beach. Next, you'll head to Stellenbosch in the Western Cape winelands, before heading to Hermanus for an incredible whale-watching experience. Continuing to Knysna, a town at the heart of the famous Garden Route. From Port Elizabeth we'll go on to discover the KwaZulu-Natal battlefields on a tour. Kruger National Park is our next destination, where we'll head out in search of the Big Five, before a drive along the scenic Panorama Route completes this incredible adventure.

Pace of trip: Active
For travellers who love to explore and discover multiple destinations - can include moderate walking and longer days

Enlarge map

Your Tour Includes

 
  • Return flights from your chosen airport
  • 15 nights in 3 and 4-star hotels plus 2 nights in flight
  • 25 meals: 15 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 8 dinners and welcome drink
  • Travelsphere Holiday Director
  • Overseas transfers, internal flights, other transportation and porterage

Included Tour Highlights

  • Cape Town tour and Table Mountain
  • Cape Peninsula, Cape Point, Boulders Beach and Botanical Gardens
  • Winelands cellar tour and tasting
  • The Drostdy Museum in Swellendam
  • The Cango Caves and an Safari Ostrich Farm
  • Whale-watching experience in Hermanus
  • Drive along the Garden Route
  • 4 hour Featherbed eco experience
  • Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park
  • Discover charming Port Elizabeth
  • The Zulu battlefields
  • Game drive in Kruger National Park
  • Drive along the scenic Panorama Route
  • Gorge Lift and forest walk
  • A 'braai' dinner in a Boma under the African stars

Tour Itinerary

Cape Town, Town Hall

Day 1 UK - Cape Town

Today you will fly to Cape Town.

Next day
Cable Car station, Table Mountain

Day 2 Cape Town

On arrival in Cape Town, we'll transfer you to your hotel, with your sightseeing starting en route. Located on the shores of the Atlantic, with Table Mountain as a backdrop, Cape Town occupies a spectacular setting and you'll take in fabulous views as we approach it. You'll see many of the city's highlights including Table Mountain - on some days the top of the mountain is shrouded by clouds, a natural phenomenon known as the tablecloth - a beautiful sight. And if the weather is favourable, you'll have a chance to go up on the cable car. Join your fellow guests for a welcome drink this evening.
Next day
Penguins on Boulders Beach

Day 3 Cape Peninsula

There’s a great day ahead as we set off to explore the Cape Peninsula to take in some absolutely breath-taking views including the Twelve Apostles Mountain Range and a drive along one of the most spectacular coastal drives in the world, Chapman’s Peak (weather permitting), we’ll explore Cape Point, stop at Boulders Beach, famous for its penguin colony, and travel into Simon’s Town before completing our travels with a visit to the wonderful Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens Meals included: B
Next day
Cape Malay Quarter

Day 4 Cape Town - at Leisure

The choice is yours today, you can explore independently, or perhaps come on an optional excursion to Langa, Cape Town’s oldest township. En route, you’ll visit Bo-Kaap Malay Quarter and drive through District Six. Meals included: B
Next day
Wine tasting in Stellenbosch

Day 5 Cape Town - Western Cape Winelands

Today we're going to discover the Winelands of the Western Cape. First stop is a tour of the charming, historic town of Stellenbosch. We'll wander along Dorp Street admiring fine examples of Cape Dutch, Georgian and Victorian architecture, and take in fantastic views of the mountains and surrounding countryside. We’ll visit Spice Route Destination in Paarl, where an array of artisans sell everything from chocolate, wine, beers to spices and homewares. During our time here, we'll taste a selection of wines paired with cured meats and then indulge in a chocolate-tasting. After, a scenic drive takes us through lush farmland and vineyards to the town of Franschhoek, for a view of the Huguenot Monument and an amble down the main road before enjoying a tasting at a wine estate in the area, nestled against the hillside overlooking vineyards and the majestic Wemmershoek Mountains. Meals included: B
Next day
Swellendam

Day 6 Stellenbosch - Hermanus

Hermanus, your destination today is known as one of the best places for land based whale watching in the world. At this time of year, southern right whales stay in the bay close to the shore and can be seen from the network of cliff paths. For the chance to witness these mesmerising creatures in their own habitat, we'll head out on a whale-watching cruise if weather conditions allow. This afternoon is free for you to explore the town at your own pace and we have arranged an overnight stay here. Meals included: B
Next day
Humpback Whale

Day 7 Hermanus - Oudtshoorn

Your next base is Oudtshoorn, and during our drive here we'll stop at Swellendam, one of the oldest towns in South Africa. A tour will introduce its stunning architecture and you'll also have time to visit its fascinating museum. Back on the road, take in lovely views of ravines, gorges, cliffs and lush vegetation as we journey through the Huisrivier pass, set between two valleys. Meals included: B
Next day
Oudtshoorn Ostrich Farm

Day 8 Oudtshoorn - Knysna

Oudtshoorn is the 'ostrich capital of the world', and home to the world's largest population of these unique flightless birds. Before we make our way to Knysna, our base for two nights, we'll visit the Safari Ostrich Farm to see some of these fascinating creatures up close. You're also going to see the Cango Caves today. Located in a limestone ridge alongside the stunning Swatberg Mountains, this magnificent system of underground caverns is more than 20 million years old. Meals included: B
Next day
Featherbed Nature Reserve

Day 9 Knysna

The quaint town of Knysna lies at the heart of the Garden Route and is surrounded by ancient forests. It's a delightful place with plenty of craft shops, boutiques and cafés. After a leisurely start today, we will visit the Featherbed Nature Reserve with a cruise across Knysna Lagoon, a walk through the forest past the ancient sea caves, and a buffet lunch. Meals included: B,L
Next day
Plettenberg Bay

Day 10 Knysna - Port Elizabeth

Your journey to Port Elizabeth, or Gqeberha as it is now known, via Plettenberg Bay includes a stop at Birds of Eden. A unique two hectare dome, the world’s largest, over a gorge of indigenous forest and currently home to over 3,500 birds from over 220 species. Next is Storms River Mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park. Here a 2km walk takes you over the 77-metre-long suspension bridge which hovers above the tumultuous water flowing into the Indian Ocean. Later, we will take in some highlights of Gqeberha en-route to our hotel for this evening. Meals included: B,D
Next day
Port Elizabeth

Day 11 Port Elizabeth - Battlefields

On arrival in Johannesburg you'll discover a very different territory to that previously experienced, as we head into the heart of the Zulu kingdom, the KwaZulu-Natal battlefields. The area is our base for two nights. Meals included: B,D
Next day
Isandlwana Battlefields

Day 12 Battlefields

On today's guided tour you'll retrace history as you stand at the very spot where the 1879 Battle of Isandlwana and subsequent conflict at Rorke's Drift took place. A Local Guide will bring to life the events of the day when 20,000 Zulu warriors, armed with traditional weapons, confronted the firepower of the British army. Meals included: B,L,D
Next day
Lioness and Cubs, Kruger National Park

Day 13 Greater Kruger

Your journey today takes you to the Mpumalanga Lowveld region of South Africa, 40 mins from the Kruger National Park, South Africa's largest game reserve. Your accommodation over the next few nights is spectacular and special. The luxury safari tents at Ndhula & Muluwa Lodge are ideally situated and built on wooden decks and enjoy a breath taking natural setting. An inviting open-air reception area adjoins a large, thatched-roof dining room where you can enjoy South African and international cuisine with beautiful views over the valley. Todays journey is long but packed full of rewards as you travel through a variety of landscapes and take in spectacular views. Meals included: B,D
Next day
Kruger National Park

Day 14 Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park is home to the Big Five - lion, elephant, buffalo, leopard and rhino. Today we'll take in the sights on a full-day game drive, which also includes a breakfast picnic. You'll travel in an open safari vehicle with an expert guide who will talk to other drivers and track down the best wildlife sightings - it's a wonderful way to experience the African wilderness. We will return later this afternoon and the rest of the day is yours to do as you please. Meals included: B,D
Next day
Chimpanzee

Day 15 Greater Kruger - at Leisure

You could relax and enjoy the facilities at the lodge, or head out on an optional game drive and continue your search for wildlife. Meals included: B,D
Next day
Bourke’s Luck Potholes

Day 16 Greater Kruger - Panorama Route

Start your day with a drive along the breathtaking Panorama Route, which winds its way through some of South Africa's most beautiful scenery. The rainforest at God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes and the Three Rondavels, are some of the highlights. We're also going to take an unforgettable journey on the Graskop Gorge Lift, which travels 51 metres down the face of the gorge and into the forest below. Here, a trail of wooden walkways and suspension bridges carves its way through the forest and interactive exhibits tell us more about the flora and fauna. Tonight, if the weather is on our side, get to know one of South African's oldest traditions for dinner - the Boma. An amazing outdoor dinner around a fire place for ambiance and warmth to enjoy those famous African barbecue meals. Meals included: B,D
Next day
Buffalo, Kruger National Park

Day 17 Johannesburg - UK

Today we will transfer you to the airport for your flight to the UK. Meals included: B
Next day
Zebras

Day 18 UK

You'll arrive in the UK today.

  1. Memorable Moment

    As the sun begins to rise over Kruger National Park, head out in search of the illustrious ‘Big Five’. Keep your eyes peeled and take in the amazing sights as you travel in an open safari vehicle on this once in a lifetime adventure. Which majestic animal will you spot first?

Accommodation (as specified or similar)

Cresta Grande Cape Town

Located in the heart of the city and within walking distance of attractions, shopping centres, museums, restaurants and nightlife. Rooms with spectacular views of either the city, Table Mountain, or Lion's Head. Cresta Grande Cape Town hotel provides a fantastic launchpad from which to explore the city.

Located in the heart of the city and within walking distance of attractions, shopping centres, museums, restaurants and nightlife. Rooms with spectacular views of either the city, Table Mountain, or Lion's Head. Cresta Grande Cape Town hotel provides a fantastic launchpad from which to explore the city.
Next accommodation

Protea Hotel Stellenbosch

Ideally situated and brimming with amenities, Protea Hotel Stellenbosch is an ideal destination just a short distance from attractions including Stellenbosch University and Stellenbosch Town Centre, as well as Blaauwklippen vineyard. Intuitively appointed accommodations feature deluxe bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, room service and other thoughtful perks. Enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast or relax over dinner and drinks at Die Wingerd Restaurant.

Ideally situated and brimming with amenities, Protea Hotel Stellenbosch is an ideal destination just a short distance from attractions including Stellenbosch University and Stellenbosch Town Centre, as well as Blaauwklippen vineyard. Intuitively appointed accommodations feature deluxe bedding, complimentary Wi-Fi, room service and other thoughtful perks. Enjoy a hearty buffet breakfast or relax over dinner and drinks at Die Wingerd Restaurant.
Next accommodation

Windsor Hotel Hermanus

The Windsor Hotel and Self-Catering Apartments, a 120km drive from Cape Town, is renowned for its unparalleled vantage point to view the whales which breed and feed in Walker Bay from July – November. Independently owned, Hermanus’s oldest hotel has been modernised while retaining the charm and hospitality so cherished by our guests, who return time and again for their homely seaside holiday experience.

The Windsor Hotel and Self-Catering Apartments, a 120km drive from Cape Town, is renowned for its unparalleled vantage point to view the whales which breed and feed in Walker Bay from July – November. Independently owned, Hermanus’s oldest hotel has been modernised while retaining the charm and hospitality so cherished by our guests, who return time and again for their homely seaside holiday experience.
Next accommodation

Protea Hotel Oudtshoorn Riempie Estate

The 3-star Riempie Hotel in Oudtshoorn has a tranquil setting, with the town's famous crocodile and ostrich farms close by. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and swimming pool (typically open May-Sept). Standard rooms come with free WiFi, satellite TV, and tea and coffee making facilities. All have en suite bathrooms.

The 3-star Riempie Hotel in Oudtshoorn has a tranquil setting, with the town's famous crocodile and ostrich farms close by. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar and swimming pool (typically open May-Sept). Standard rooms come with free WiFi, satellite TV, and tea and coffee making facilities. All have en suite bathrooms.
Next accommodation

Protea Hotel Knysna Quays

The 4-star Protea Hotel Knysna Quays is set on the Knysna Quays waterfront, within easy reach of the city's main attractions. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, lounge and outdoor pool (typically open May-Sept). Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, hairdryer, telephone, minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities and Wi-Fi.

The 4-star Protea Hotel Knysna Quays is set on the Knysna Quays waterfront, within easy reach of the city's main attractions. Hotel facilities include a restaurant, bar, lounge and outdoor pool (typically open May-Sept). Bedrooms have private facilities, air-conditioning, TV, hairdryer, telephone, minibar, tea- and coffee-making facilities and Wi-Fi.
Next accommodation

Garden Court Kings Beach

With the white sands of Kings Beach in front of the hotel, sweeping views of Algoa Bay from the rooms, and the famed Hobie Beach just moments away, the Garden Court Kings Beach hotel offers a perfect beachfront location to visitors at one of South Africa’s largest coastal cities. Facilities include en-suite rooms, and great amenities including a fitness centre and the popular Mike’s Kitchen. Friendly service, warm hospitality, and easy relaxation are the hallmarks of the Garden Court Kings Beach hotel in Port Elizabeth.

With the white sands of Kings Beach in front of the hotel, sweeping views of Algoa Bay from the rooms, and the famed Hobie Beach just moments away, the Garden Court Kings Beach hotel offers a perfect beachfront location to visitors at one of South Africa’s largest coastal cities. Facilities include en-suite rooms, and great amenities including a fitness centre and the popular Mike’s Kitchen. Friendly service, warm hospitality, and easy relaxation are the hallmarks of the Garden Court Kings Beach hotel in Port Elizabeth.
Next accommodation

Dundee Battlefields Lodge

The 3-star Battlefields Country Lodge is situated in the heart of the well known historic Battlefields in KwaZulu Natal near Dundee. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and a bar. Bedrooms have private facilities and air-conditioning.

The 3-star Battlefields Country Lodge is situated in the heart of the well known historic Battlefields in KwaZulu Natal near Dundee. Hotel facilities include a restaurant and a bar. Bedrooms have private facilities and air-conditioning.
Next accommodation

Sanbonani Resort Hotel

A tranquil escape nestled where the Sabie and Sand Rivers meet in the lush heart of Hazyview, Mpumalanga. Just 10km from Kruger National Park, a haven for bushveld adventures. Offering a perfect blend of comfort, nature and convenience. Experience the best of Hazyview accommodation all surrounded by lush gardens, tranquil river views and warm South African hospitality. Onsite highlights include a luxury spa, the infamous Mhangela Restaurant, swimming pool, tennis courts & mini golf. Also close to top Mpumalanga attractions like God’s Window, Blyde River Canyon and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Sanbonani Resort & Spa delivers everything you need for a memorable stay in the heart of Mpumalanga.

A tranquil escape nestled where the Sabie and Sand Rivers meet in the lush heart of Hazyview, Mpumalanga. Just 10km from Kruger National Park, a haven for bushveld adventures. Offering a perfect blend of comfort, nature and convenience. Experience the best of Hazyview accommodation all surrounded by lush gardens, tranquil river views and warm South African hospitality. Onsite highlights include a luxury spa, the infamous Mhangela Restaurant, swimming pool, tennis courts & mini golf. Also close to top Mpumalanga attractions like God’s Window, Blyde River Canyon and Bourke’s Luck Potholes. Sanbonani Resort & Spa delivers everything you need for a memorable stay in the heart of Mpumalanga.

  1. Travelsphere Cares projects

    The Good Work Foundation blends tech and vocational training to equip youth for modern jobs and conservation work. Youth are gaining skills in entrepreneurship and tourism to break the cycle of poverty around Kruger National Park by generating sources of income.

    Read more
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Optional Excursions

Experience even more of your destination by adding one or more optional experiences to your holiday before you set off. Take a look below at the extra trips you can enjoy on this tour

Kruger National Park Full day game drive

Kruger National Park Full day game drive

Spend a day with a qualified guide in the African bush learning about the diverse African wilderness and in search of the wildlife including the “Big Five”. Experience a breath-taking experience in the wonderful Kruger National Park. Your game drive starts early in the morning as you make your way to one of the camps in Kruger while enjoying the diversity of wildlife the Kruger has on offer. You travel in open safari vehicles. Your guides are fully qualified and their knowledge will enhance the experience! Lunchtime gives you the chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the splendour of this magnificent place! After lunch (at own expense), make your way back to the hotel whilst still enjoying all that Kruger has to offer. Breakfast boxes will be provided for you to eat enroute. Price includes transfers from/to the Kruger and park conservation fees. Full day – Minimal walking – An opportunity not to be missed!
From
£195
Add at checkout
Cape Town Township Tour

Cape Town Township Tour

Join us for a unique experience traveling through the three South Africa’s – The birth, where it all started, Apartheid South Africa, what happened then – the New South Africa, what is different since Nelson Mandela was released from prison. The tour affords the opportunity to interact, mingle and exchange cultural values with the local community. You will be welcomed in the traditional African manner in the townships of Langa (the oldest formal township) & Khayalitsha (the largest informal settlement). The tour includes visits to the Malay Quarter [also known as the Bo-Kaap] which means "Above Cape" because of its location up against the slopes of Table Mountain, the Philani Empowerment centre in Khayalitsha, where locals are taught basic life skills (weaving / arts & crafts etc), a walking tour in “shanty town Khayalitsha” with a local guide, with a visit to his shack to experience local living conditions, followed by a drive through the middle-class Khayalitsha, to share some of the achievements, such as new housing developments, shopping malls, hospitals, swimming pool & magistrate’s court, under the leadership of Nelson Mandela.

Half day – Moderate Walking – Cultural Must Do
From
£40
Add at checkout

Personalise your trip

Choose to extend your stay with an organised add-on. 

Ultimate South Africa Whale-Watching Special Departure with Victoria Falls

Ultimate South Africa Whale-Watching Special Departure with Victoria Falls

Discover the very best of South Africa on this all-encompassing tour. Beginning in Cape Town, take the cable car up Table Mountain and enjoy a tour of the Cape Peninsula which includes a visit to Cape Point and Boulders Beach. Next, you'll head to Stellenbosch in the Western Cape winelands, before heading to Hermanus for an incredible whale-watching experience. Continuing to Knysna, a town at the heart of the famous Garden Route. From Port Elizabeth we'll go on to discover the KwaZulu-Natal battlefields on a tour. Kruger National Park is our next destination, where we'll head out in search of the Big Five, before a drive along the scenic Panorama Route.  Complete this incredible adventure with a visit to awesome Victoria Falls where you'll enjoy a fabulous Boma Dinner & Drum show, a guided tour of the Victoria Falls and a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River.

Pace of trip: Active
For travellers who love to explore and discover multiple destinations - can include moderate walking and longer days

Discover the very best of South Africa on this all-encompassing tour. Beginning in Cape Town, take the cable car up Table Mountain and enjoy a tour of the Cape Peninsula which i...

Read less

Read more

Additional price per person from
£1,370
Add at checkout

Further Information

Deposit information

When you book a holiday, you will be asked to pay a deposit, this will be made clear at the time of booking. In most cases we will charge the following deposit amount;

  • European Holidays - £200 per person
  • Worldwide Holidays - £400 per person
  • Ocean & River Cruises - £400 per person

On some holidays we may charge a slightly higher deposit, to cover any costs we have to pay immediately to secure your booking with our suppliers. This will be made clear at the time of booking.

If you choose a tour that is within 84 days of departure you will need to pay the full balance when you book.

Our cancellation policy

If you decide to cancel your confirmed booking you must notify us (or your travel agent) in writing, as soon as possible. Since we incur costs in cancelling your arrangements, you will have to pay the applicable cancellation charges up to the maximum shown below.

  • More than 75 days before departure - Loss of deposit only
  • 43 - 74 days - 50% of tour price
  • 29 - 42 days - 75% of tour price
  • 15 - 28 days - 90% of tour price
  • Day of Departure - 14 days - 100% of tour price

Our full cancellation policy can be found in our booking terms and conditions, section 8.

How do I find out Entry and Health Requirements for my holiday?

We have partnered with Sherpa, an on-line self service tool that allows you to search up-to-date information regarding travel entry requirements for all countries and also allows you to apply for eVisas or eTAs via their on-line portal. Just click on this link to find out more – Travel Requirements & Visa Service

You can also refer to the Foreign Travel Advice section on the gov.uk website: Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk). Click on your destination and then click on 'Entry Requirements'. For Health Requirements, the Department of Health also offers travellers health advice on www.travelhealthpro.org.uk, click on country information to locate your destination.

It is important to remember that passport, visa and health requirements can change before departure; therefore, we recommend you regularly familiarise yourself with the latest requirements before you travel. If you cannot travel because you have not complied with any passport/entry/immigration requirements, we are unable to accept any responsibility.

For some destinations, it is not always discernable that a visa is required for entry at the border.  For example, for some customers, to travel to the United States, an ESTA may be required. For Canada, an ETA and to India, an e-visa may be needed. Please do check your requirements to avoid any unnecessary cost and delays.

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Prices shown are based on twin occupancy of a double or twin bedded room with private facilities unless otherwise stated. Single occupancy supplements will apply. Travelsphere have made every effort to ensure the accuracy of the hotel images provided on this website and images of room types displayed may vary to those offered on your tour. Therefore due to the possibility of inadvertent errors we do not guarantee their accuracy. Accommodation, airlines used and flight times are subject to change and will be confirmed in your final documents.

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