15-Nights Southern Africa Family Safari - Tailormade Journeys — CALL

Itinerary Details

1 Arrive Johannesburg, South Africa

A modern metropolis rising from South Africa’s northern plains, Johannesburg carries the legacy of its gold-rich past. Beyond its economic importance, museums poignantly reveal the difficult realities of Apartheid. The nearby Cradle of Humankind offers a window into our ancient origins with the world’s largest collection of early human fossils.

A flight to South Africa’s untamed heart delivers you to Madikwe Game Reserve, where an initial afternoon game drive promises the chance to spot the Big Five.

A dedicated safari team — including an expert guide and tracker — introduces children to the wonders of the African bush, each elephant, lion, buffalo, rhino and leopard sighting etched in their memory.

Beyond the excitement of the game drives, Madikwe offers a range of experiences. Anglers discover peace on a guided freshwater fishing safari along the Marico River. Musical exploration unfolds in an African drumming workshop, while culinary discovery awaits in a relaxed, regional cooking class. Stargazers meanwhile can embrace the night sky’s vastness in a sleep-out experience.

Bushveld opulence welcomes you at Marataba Safari Lodge, an exclusive retreat within Marakele National Park, a haven for the Big Five and a flourishing birdlife, notably the world’s largest colony of endangered Cape vultures. An afternoon game drive offers an initial glimpse of the park’s iconic wildlife, perhaps the rare black rhino.

Experience the park’s natural wonders through game drives and sunset river cruises led by insightful guides. Bush walks offer a different perspective, allowing for close encounters with smaller creatures.

Marataba continues to reveal unique encounters and personal exploration. A night under the stars in a private treehouse promises an unforgettable experience. Further game drives, tailored to specific interests, let you track specific species or explore different areas of the park. Meanwhile, other activities — from creative workshops to sporty adventures — keep all ages engaged.

Nestled between the majestic Table Mountain and the vast Atlantic, Cape Town is a vibrant coastal metropolis where colorful architecture cascades down hillsides towards bustling harbors alive with maritime activity.

A local guide leads a full-day family adventure, beginning with a cable car ascent to Table Mountain’s summit for spectacular views away from crowds. Later, hop on a cruiser and peddle along the Sea Point Promenade, passing art installations about rhino conservation and Nelson Mandela. Lunch is a hands-on affair, with children making their own pizza and bread. A visit to Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens concludes the day.

Follow the Cape Peninsula and False Bay coastline toward Muizenberg. A scenic drive then leads to Simon’s Town, home to playful penguins. Stand-up paddle boarding, if weather allows, is a chance for water-based fun. The Cape of Good Hope — a land of hidden beaches and shipwrecks — later reveals varied wildlife, such as ostriches, baboons, mountain zebras, bontebok and tortoises. A picnic lunch on secluded beach rocks gives way to a tidal pool exploration. Noordhoek Farm Village — with its artisanal ice cream — ends the day.

The Cape Winelands brims with opportunities for family fun at child-friendly estates. Partake in a wine tasting in the refurbished Manor House while children discover the Tree House, enjoy a pump track ride or play games on sprawling lawns. Teenagers can instead take to the mountain bike trails or hike with a guide across the farm. After lunch at a family-friendly wine estate, stop for sweet treats at a local chocolatier. Wind down with a stroll in the expansive Babylonstoren gardens, visit OINK farm and have a wine tasting while the kids play in the gardens.

Fly to Victoria Falls before continuing to your lodge along the Zambezi River. Each day offers immersive park experiences, with diverse activities ranging from road and river explorations to guided walking safaris, all enhanced by the proximity of Victoria Falls. Your lodge, a gateway to the surrounding wilderness, features select suites perfect for tranquil nights under the expansive African sky. Evenings conclude with a scenic sunset cruise on the Zambezi, complete with sundowner drinks and snacks.

Experience Victoria Falls in all its grandeur, a breathtaking display of rainbows and towering mist clouds. The remainder of your day offers personalized explorations within the park.

Early morning game drives are an ideal time to search for elusive creatures and those seeking refuge in the early hours. Leisurely river safaris reveal aquatic wildlife and birdlife. A slower rhythm characterizes the afternoon, with guided walks that explore the smaller details of the park’s ecosystem, from unique plant life to intricate insect behavior. Fishing excursions, tailored to both novice and experienced anglers, provide a chance to connect with the Zambezi’s waters.