32 Day Journey to the Cape
Johannesburg to Cape Town
(Trip Code: JC32 - 2009/10) Departs every 2nd Wednesday
Rate till 30 Sep
2010 Tour Price: R9 520 & Local payment:
US$745
32 Day Journey to the Cape
Johannesburg to Cape Town
(Trip Code: JC32 - 2009/10) Departs every 2nd Wednesday
Rate till 30 Sep
2010 Tour Price: R9 520 & Local payment:
US$745
This trip starts in Johannesburg and travels north through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana and finishes back in Johannesburg. This trip encompasses some the best natural beauty, cultural heritage and wildlife encounters that Southern Africa has to offer. The wildlife rich Kruger National Park and the stunning Blyde River Canyon set the scene for the wonders of Zimbabwe. The culturally important Great Zimbabwe Ruins, the beauty and history of Matobo National Park, the unforgettable interaction with the biggest of cats and the majestic Victoria Falls will provide a real insight into the unheralded beauty and promise of Zimbabwe. And still to come … the vast wilderness that is the Okavango Delta and the Kavango Region, the unique waterholes of Etosha National Park, the sweeping sand sea and dunes of the Namib-Naukluft and the second largest canyon in the world. Raise your adrenaline with the wild cheetahs of Namibia as well as the more famed adrenaline rushes on offer in Victoria Falls and Swakopmund … and to finish it all – one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town.Please note that this trip departs Johannesburg on a Wednesday, early morning. Should you wish to spend extra time there an earlier arrival should be planned and additional accommodation booked through your agent.
Pre Departure Meeting: Held at departure point at 5:00pm the day before your departure.
Departure Point: Ritz backpackers 1A North Road, Dunkled West.
Check In Time: 8:45am
Departure Time: 9:30am
Departing Johannesburg we head towards the Lowveld and the very famous Kruger National Park, our camp for the next two nights is 8 km from Kruger Parks Numbi Gate. Spoilt with a swimming pool and good hot showers we spend the evening around the campfire anticipating our game drive tomorrow. (L,D)
HIGHLIGHTS Kruger National Park
Blyde River Canyon
Gods Window
Great Zimbabwe Ruins
Gweru - The Antelope Park
Matobo National Park
Victoria Falls
Chobe National Park
Okavango DeltaKavango Region
Etosha National Park
Cheetah Park
Spitzkoppe
Sesriem
Fish River Canyon
Cape TownDAY 1: Johannesburg to Hazyview – Kruger Park Backpackers:
DAY 2: Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the most famous wildlife parks in the world. Covering an area of 21, 497 sq. km – 60 km wide and over 350 km long, this conservation area has more than 500 bird species, 114 reptile, 49 fish, 33 amphibians, 146 mammals and over 23000 plant species have been recorded. Today is spent in the Park on a full day game drive to see how many of the species can be found. Tonight there is an option of a night drive in the park (B,L,D)
DAY 3: Kruger Park to Graskop
After a quick replenishing of our stocks we leave the Lowveld, climbing up in altitude to the beautiful town of Graskop, it is from this gateway that we get to explore the beauties of Mpumulanga, known for some of the best landscape in South Africa. Our stops for the day include the ever striking Blyde River Canyon and Gods Window. There is a chance to view the Canyon from the many viewpoints, which offers fantastic photographic opportunities. We then set up camp on lush green grass and enjoy the luxuries of a swimming pool with the most amazing view. For those in a party mood the small town of Graskops nightlife is something to be indulged in. (B, L, D)
DAY 4: Graskop to Messina
A long yet lovely days drive as we head up north toward Zimbabwe, this is your chance to sit back, relax and enjoy the ever changing scenery, tonight is our last night in beautiful South Africa in a town called Messina – said to be one of the hottest areas in South Africa. Years back this was a flourishing copper mining area, but with the mines closing down in the early 1990’s it tumbled into the darkness of a small quiet ghost town. With the discovery of diamonds it has again once flourished into its former self, and now a sphere filled with history. (B, L, D)
DAY 5: Messina to Masivingo
Leaving South Africa we enter Zimbabwe a country of tradition, culture, soul and a lot of scenic beauty. We make our way to the town of Masivingo, which lies in the outskirts of the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. Great Zimbabwe was the greatest medieval city in sub-Sahara and provides evidence that an ancient African civilization reached a very high level of civilization. The name Zimbabwe is derived from the Shona word meaning great stone houses. The grand setting and history soaked walls certainly qualify as one of the highlights of our trip. You will have the time to wander around this ancient wonderland before setting up camp for our first night in Zimbabwe. (B, L, D)
DAY 6: Masivingo to Gweru
Once we have finished exploring this historic area we continue our journey to Gweru, situated in the Zimbabwe Midlands. Here we stop over at The Antelope Park. People say you have not been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls … AND The Antelope Park. Here you have the opportunity to partake in an incredible experience unique to The Antelope Park - ‘Walking with the lions". In addition to the lions there's anabundance of otherwildlife species inthe park such as elephants, giraffe, zebra,wildebeest andover 150 bird species. (B, L, D)
DAY 7: Gweru – Antelope Park
Today is spent as leisure with a variety of activities to enthral you. From walking with Lions, elephant riding, swimming on the majestic elephant, to trying your hand at fishing the list is endless. (B, L, D)
DAYS 8: Gweru to Bulawayo
Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe with a laid back atmosphere. It is noted for the exceptionally wide streets, which were originally designed to allow space for a full span ox wagon. The city is still characterised by the many old British colonial buildings, maintained by the Bulawayo City Council as heritage sites. There are a number of interesting places to visit in Bulawayo such as The natural History Museum, the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts Centre, providing work for over 70 people. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: Bulawayo
Today we take in Matobo National Park. The park is one of the last strongholds of both black and white rhino, and the region is renowned for it’s high concentration of leopards and black eagle. There are numerous caves and rock painting which once again is evidence of the ancient San inhabitants of this area. Cecil Rhodes (after whom Rhodesia was named) is buried here at his own request, but there is some controversy over whether he will stay! We spend time game driving through the park giving you an insight into the unique geological, ecological and historical environment. (B, L, D)
DAY 10: Matobo National Park to Victoria Falls
Heading north we make our way to the mighty Victoria Falls, one of the natural wonders of the world. Victoria Falls is one of the memorable sights on your African safari. There are many activities available all year round such as, flights can be taken which gives you a panoramic view of the Falls, Batoka Gorge and the islands above the falls. Back on the ground, the Falls can be seen from the Victoria Falls Park with its many viewing points, or from the Zambian side. All offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
White water rafting in the Batoka Gorge is considered to be world class. Besides the excitement of the grade 5 rapids, there are "floats" where there is time to admire the scenic cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
Bungee jumping enthusiasts can take the plunge from the Zambezi Bridge, which connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. The leap into the Batoka Gorge is certainly not for the faint-hearted.
Other optional activities around Victoria Falls include day trips into the Zambezi National Park, horse riding safaris, a visit to the Crocodile Ranch, Snake Park, golf at Elephant Hills Hotel, parachuting, the Falls Craft Village and the Sunset Cruise. (B, L)
DAY 11 &12: Victoria Falls
The next two days are spent at your leisure giving you time to partake in the many activities available in Victoria Falls. (B both days)
DAYS 13: Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park
This morning we depart Victoria Falls after breakfast and cross the border of Zimbabwe into Botswana. We set up camp for the night. The rest of the day is spent exploring the area and relaxing on the banks of the Chobe River. and prepare for our afternoon game drive in Chobe National Park. Chobe is one of Botswana’s premier game parks, renowned for the large herds of elephant around the Chobe River. (B,L,D)
DAYS 14: Chobe National Park
An early morning start sees prepare for our morning game drive in the Chobe National Park. Chobe is one of Botswana’s premier game parks, renowned for the large herds of elephant around the Chobe River. Later this afternoon there is an option to partake in a boat dries along the Chobe River. (B,L,D)
DAYS 15: Chobe National Park to Maun
Today we travel in a south-westerly direction to Maun, our base camp before we start our Optional Excursion into the Okavango Delta. Today is a long day’s drive with lunch on the roadside. (B,L,D)
The Delta is a huge expanse of water, which has travelled from the Angolan highlands, spreading out to form the largest inland Delta in the World.
Studded with exotic islands, the Delta is renowned for its incredible variety of bird life as well as many other animals unique to Southern Africa.
DAY 16: Okavango Delta
Here you have the opportunity to take the optional 3 day / 2 night excursions into the Delta. With this excursion we travel approximately 1-2 hours north to the Mokoro polers station. From there we hire mokoros, the local dug out canoes, which are poled by local guides through the winding waterways. Your guides will select a place to set up camp. An afternoon game walk will allow you to experience the Delta wilderness. (B,L,D)
DAY 17: Okavango Delta
A day of rest, relaxation and Delta experiences await. Today you will have the opportunity to partake in a number of activities including game walks, mokoro cruises, swimming and even a chance to try your hand at poling your own mokoro! (B,L,D)
DAYS 18: Okavango Delta to Maun
There is a final opportunity for a morning game walk before packing up camp and setting off back to Maun. After arriving back in the early afternoon you have the opportunity to complete your picture of the Okavango Delta by taking an optional sunset scenic flight over the Delta region (US$55+ dependant upon numbers). (B,L,D)
DAYS 19: Maun to Rundu:
Departing Maun we head in a south west direction along the Kavango River and enter Namibia in the Northern region. We stock up our supplies in Rundu before reaching our campsite for the night. This campsite is spectacular and located right on the banks of the Kavango River complete with "open air" facilities and the occasional hippo grazing on the lawn. (B,L,D)
DAY 20: Rundu to Etosha (Namutoni)
Today we arrive at Etosha National Park in the late afternoon. Etosha is the major nature reserve of Namibia, covering over 20 000 square kilometres with a large variety of animal and bird species. The park is situated around the Etosha Pan, and has an extensive network of gravel roads that enable us to get to remote areas of the park. A feature of the park is the floodlit water holes at both Namutoni and Okakuejo. Evenings can be spent sitting on the specially constructed viewing benches watching the game as it comes in to drink. (B,L,D)
DAY 21: Etosha (Okaukuejo)
Another full day of game driving as we make our way across 150kms of the park from east to west. Tonight you have another opportunity to spend at leisure around the fantastic floodlit waterholes. (B,L,D)
DAY 22: Etosha to Cheetah Park
A short drive take us to the Cheetah Park, a private farm where you will learn about the conservation of the cheetah population in Namibia and have a chance to meet the resident cheetah's up at the house. A photo opportunity not to be missed! (B,L,D)
DAY 23: Cheetah Park to Spitzkoppe
A days drive takes us to Spitzkoppe, the 1728m high rock formation, one of Namibia’s most recognised landmarks. There is opportunity to explore the bushman paintings and surrounding area. A night camping under the stars is a must here! . (B,L,D)
DAY 24: Spitzkoppe to Swakopmund
We follow the Atlantic Coast south to visit the Cape Cross Seal Colony. Of the 23 breeding colonies of Cape Fur Seals along the coast of South Africa and Namibia, Cape Cross is the largest. Seals are present through out the year and numbers fluctuate between 80 000 and 100 000 individuals, rising to around 200 000 during the breeding season. It was here that the Portuguese navigator, Diego Cao, erected a stone cross in 1846, becoming the first European to set foot on the coast of Namibia. We arrive in Swakopmund later afternoon. (B,L)
DAYS 25 & 26: Swakopmund
Founded in 1892 during the German colonial rule, the distinct colonial character has been well preserved. Swakopmund has several excellent restaurants, bars, coffee shops as well as many arts and crafts shops selling Namibian rural art. There are fine beaches to walk along as well as a great museum, aquarium and galleries to visit.
Optional excursions include fishing trips, quad biking, sand boarding, skydiving, desert flights, water sports, golf and 4WD hire. Accommodation will be in dormitories. Upgrades are available.
(B included both days)DAY 27: Swakopmund to Sesriem
Leaving Swakopmund we head south and drive past Walvis Bay along the Atlantic Ocean on route to Sesriem. A short distance away is Sossusvlei, surrounded by a dramatic sea of sand dunes reputed to be the highest in the world. Magnificent views of the desert can be seen from the top of the dunes, some over 300m high. The afternoon will be spent exploring this amazing area.
An optional and must do excursion is to walk in this area with the highly specialised local guides of Sossus on Foot. The guide will bring the amazing history, geology, flora, fauna and cultural legacy of the Bushman to you. Tonight we will view the sunset from the top of Dune 45 – a truly memorable experience. (B,L,D)
DAY 28: Sesriem to Helmringhausen Area
Departing the Namib - Naukluft Park area we drive south and choose our camp for the evening – no matter where we camp here it will be a remote experience. (B,L,D)
DAY 29: Helmringhausen Area to Fish River Canyon:
Today we drive to Hobas campsite and the Fish River Canyon, the second largest in the world although reputed to be the most spectacular. 161km long, up to 27 kms wide and about 550m deep, the outer canyon was formed by tectonic activity whilst the erosion of the Fish River formed the inner canyon. A road running near the eastern A road running near the eastern rim gives access to several viewing points with spectacular views across the rift. (B,L,D)
DAY 30: Fish River Canyon to Orange River
We will continue our short drive south onto the Orange River, the natural land border between South Africa and Namibia. You have the option of a half-day canoe trip on the beautiful Orange River. The canoe trip provides the opportunity for some bird watching as well as a scenic and relaxing ride. (B, L, D)
DAY 31: Orange River to Cape Town
Today is a long days drive through the beautiful wine growing regions of Namaqualand and Ceres, as we make our way to the picturesque city of Cape Town or better know as the "Mother City" (B,L,)
Day 32: Cape Town
This morning your trip will end. Please note that if you wish to partake in the many activities offered in and around Cape Town we recommend that you spend a few extra days post your tour. Accommodation can be arranged though your travel agent or the Africa Travel Co office.
Local Payment: US$745
Optional Excursion:
Night Drive in Kruger US$40
Victoria Falls National Park US$20
Okavango Delta with Mokoro’s (3 days) US$150
Scenic Flight over the Okavango Delta US$65
Sossusvlei Desert Walk US$35
Canoeing on Orange River US$30(Prices subject to change)
Please note: This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road conditions, weather, political situations, and group decisions. Due to new tourism laws in some of the countries we operate in there may be a truck and crew change during the trip. All prices & Local Payments are subject to change with prior notice.
Departures 2009/10
Journey to the Cape JC32 Price R9 520 Local Payment US$745 START FINISH JNB CPT SUN TUE 17-Jun-09 18-Jul-09 15-Jul-09 15-Aug-09 12-Aug-09 12-Sep-09 9-Sep-09 10-Oct-09 7-Oct-09 7-Nov-09 4-Nov-09 5-Dec-09 2-Dec-09 2-Jan-10 30-Dec-09 27-Feb-10 24-Feb-10 27-Mar-10 24-Mar-10 24-Apr-10 21-Apr-10 22-May-10 19-May-10 19-Jun-10 16-Jun-10 17-Jul-10 14-Jul-10 14-Aug-10
