Ultimate Africa

From Cape Town to Kigali

Tour Description

Set out on an extraordinary 30-day handcrafted journey across Southern and Eastern Africa, featuring breathtaking landscapes, vibrant cultures, and unforgettable wildlife encounters.

Begin in Cape Town, South Africa, where majestic mountains meet pristine beaches. Discover the city’s lively culture on a walking food tour, sampling local flavors and exploring the historic Bo-Kaap neighborhood.

Spend a day at Cape Point and visit Boulders Beach to observe the charismatic African penguins, then enjoy an evening of cultural dining and drumming at GOLD Restaurant.

Next, unwind in the Winelands with two nights of sampling world-renowned wines across Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl. Then journey to Manyeleti Private Game Reserve for exhilarating game drives and guided walking safaris, staying in a luxurious tented camp for an immersive African safari experience.

Fly to Botswana’s Okavango Delta to continue your safari adventure with game drives and traditional mokoro (canoe) excursions through Moremi Game Reserve and the Delta’s channels. At Chobe National Park, enjoy boat safaris and observe elephants along the Chobe River on eco-friendly, solar-powered boats.

Arrive in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, for a culturally enriching experience, where you'll support local community initiatives and visit a nearby village. Marvel at the awe-inspiring falls and enjoy a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.

Continue your journey in Kenya, flying to the Masai Mara for an exceptional safari experience. Explore vast savannas with the Big Five and take in the wild beauty of one of Africa’s most iconic reserves.

Conclude with an unforgettable experience in Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, trekking to encounter mountain gorillas in their natural environment.

This adventure is fully customisable, ask us how we can tailor this for you today!

Viva's Best Bits...

Witness unforgettable landscapes - from the Okavango Delta’s waterways to the sweeping plains of the Masai Mara and the volcanic backdrop of Rwanda

Meet Maasai communities, visit local villages, and enjoy authentic dining experiences, gaining a genuine connection with Africa’s diverse cultures.

With Big Five game drives, primate tracking, and mokoro safaris, you’ll experience Africa’s rich biodiversity in unique, memorable ways.

Tour Itinerary

Customisable ? This tour can be customised to suit your tastes and timing. Enquire here for more information.
Day 1
Arrival Cape Town

Upon arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel.

One of the world's most picturesque tourist destinations and most beautiful cities in the world. Cape Town is situated amidst majestic mountains and is surrounded by pristine white beaches. Often called the 'cosmopolitan hub of Africa', it is home to a rich cultural and historical heritage, vibrant restaurants and nightlife and a multitude of activities - from extreme sports to leisurely scenic cruises and world-class shopping.

Overnight at the Portswood including breakfast

Day 2
Private Eat Like a Local City Tour

Enjoy a guided walking food tour through Cape Town’s City Bowl. You will visit at least six different restaurants, where you'll enjoy a variety of food and drink tastings.

As you explore central Cape Town and the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood, you'll gain insights into local culture, history, and food trends.

Cape Town's city center, often called the City Bowl, is surrounded by mountains and hills, creating a picturesque setting. This walking food tour offers a unique way to experience Cape Town and is an excellent option for first-time visitors to get acquainted with the city. The walk is not strenuous, but you should have a moderate level of fitness, as the tour covers a distance of 3 to 4 km. Along the way, we'll also point out some of our other favorite restaurants and bars for you to explore during your stay.

The tour begins at 09:30, is limited to eight participants, and lasts approximately 4.5 hours.

After the tour, you will be transferred back to your hotel.

Day 3
Day at Leisure in Cape Town

Enjoy breakfast at your hotel and your days at leisure to explore on your own or go on one of the various optional activities on offer.

Optional activities can be pre-booked - some suggestions below:

Robben Island: Discover the historical significance of Robben Island on a guided tour, learning about the struggle against apartheid and the imprisonment of Nelson Mandela.

Township Tour: Gain insights into South Africa's culture by exploring a township like Langa or Khayelitsha, engaging with locals and visiting community projects.

Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens: Immerse yourself in the beauty of Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, taking a leisurely stroll, enjoying a picnic, and attending summer concerts.

Shark Diving: For an exhilarating adventure, experience shark diving in nearby Gansbaai, known as the "Great White Shark Capital of the World." Get up close with these magnificent creatures in a controlled and safe environment.

Whale Watching (in season): Experience the thrill of whale watching during the season (June to November) from Hermanus to spot southern right whales.

Day 4
Private Cape Point and Boulders Tour

Today, you'll set off on a private tour to explore Cape Point and Boulders Beach.

Cape Town is situated on a stunning mountainous peninsula, and this full-day tour is the perfect way to see its highlights. Travel along the Atlantic seaboard, with its pristine beaches and rugged mountains, to Hout Bay. If conditions allow, you'll continue along Chapman’s Peak Drive, renowned as one of the most scenic roads in the world.

Your journey takes you to the Cape Point Nature Reserve, located at the southern tip of the Cape Peninsula—a destination that has fascinated travelers for centuries. On your return to Cape Town, you'll travel along the False Bay coast, visiting the colony of endangered African Penguins at Boulders Beach. The route also passes through the charming villages of Simon’s Town, Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay, and Muizenberg.

In the evening, you'll be transferred to GOLD Restaurant for dinner, where you'll enjoy a drumming experience. GOLD Restaurant offers more than just a meal—it’s an authentic African experience, taking you on a culinary journey through the diverse flavors of the continent.

Day 5-6
Winelands

You will be transferred to your hotel in the Winelands where you will spend the following 2 nights. You have a driver and guide who will make recommendations and tailor your days to your preference.

The Winelands area near Cape Town is a picturesque and enchanting region renowned for its world-class vineyards, breathtaking landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Nestled amidst the scenic valleys and rolling hills of the Western Cape, the Winelands offer a delightful escape from the bustling city life of Cape Town.

The region is primarily known for its exceptional wine production, with vineyards stretching as far as the eye can see. Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, and Paarl are among the prominent towns within the Winelands, each with its own distinct charm and winemaking traditions.

Stellenbosch, the second oldest town in South Africa, exudes a captivating blend of history and contemporary vibrancy. Its oak-lined streets are adorned with beautiful Cape Dutch and Victorian architecture, creating an atmosphere of timeless elegance. Stellenbosch is home to numerous wine estates, where you may choose to indulge in wine tastings, cellar tours, and even gastronomic experiences that pair wines with exquisite cuisine.

Franschhoek, meaning "French corner" in Afrikaans, has a rich cultural heritage dating back to the 17th century when French Huguenots settled in the area. Today, the town retains a distinct French influence, evident in its charming architecture, culinary prowess, and world-class restaurants. Franschhoek offers a delightful blend of wine estates, art galleries, boutique shops, and a renowned annual food and wine festival.

Paarl, known for its impressive granite mountains and vineyard-dotted landscapes, showcases a mix of traditional and modern wineries. You may choose to explore historic estates, enjoy wine tastings, and experience the warm hospitality that characterizes the region.

Beyond wine, the Winelands offer breathtaking scenery characterized by vineyard-covered slopes, majestic mountains, and tranquil rivers. You can embark on leisurely drives along scenic routes, stopping at viewpoints to take in the panoramic vistas, or explore the nature reserves and hiking trails that dot the area, immersing yourself in the beauty of the natural surroundings.

Day 7
Cape Town Manyeleti Private Game Reserve

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Cape Town airport in time for your flight to Hoedspruit.

On arrival, you will be met and transferred to the lodge. If you arrive in time, enjoy lunch at the lodge. Honeyguide Khoka Moya Camp is a luxurious tented safari camp nestled along a riverbank in South Africa's Greater Kruger region. Located within the Manyeleti Game Reserve, a private concession bordering the renowned Kruger National Park, this camp offers an authentic safari experience.

The unfenced camps offer wildlife experiences while pampering the senses. Off road game drives in open vehicles or full safaris on foot may bring you into close contact with the 'Big 5'. Mantobeni and Khoka Moya camps have indoor and outdoor dining areas as well as fully stocked bars with climate-control wine cellars, stocked with award-winning South African vintages.

This afternoon enjoy a game drive in the reserve in search for the Big 5, before dinner.

Overnight Honeyguide Khoya Moya Camp in a luxury tent including full board

Day 8-10
Manyeleti Private Game Reserve

Enjoy your included game activities.

A typical day on safari in immerses you in the awe-inspiring beauty and wildlife of the African bush.

You'll start early with a game drive in an open safari vehicle, guided by experienced experts who will help you spot and identify various animals.

As the sun rises, the wildlife becomes more active, offering thrilling sightings of the Big Five and other fascinating creatures.

After a few hours return to the lodge where you'll enjoy a delicious breakfast.

After breakfast, you may choose to do some optional activities, or relax taking in the surrounds. Following lunch, and perhaps a siesta, its time to enjoy an afternoon game drive to witness the park's wildlife in a different light.

Sundowners in the bush allow you to soak in the beauty of an African sunset, savoring the magical atmosphere. Evening activities may include night drives, stargazing, cultural performances, or informative talks.

The day concludes with a delightful dinner and the opportunity to relax and reflect on the day's experiences in the heart of the African wilderness.

Overnight Honeyguide Khoya Moya Camp in a luxury tent including full board

Day 11
Manyeleti Private Game Reserve Johannesburg

Enjoy one last early morning game drive before breakfast. Afterwards, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg

On arrival, catch the shuttle to your airport hotel.

Overnight Southern Sun OR Tambo including breakfast

Day 12
Johannesburg Okavango Delta

Today catch the shuttle to the airport in time for your flight.

Fly to Maun, On arrival, clear customs and immigration formalities, and then you will be met and assisted with your light aircraft transfer to your camp located in the Moremi Game Reserve.

Overnight at Camp Moremi or Camp Xakanaxa in a luxury tent on an all-inclusive basis

Day 13-14
Exploring Moremi Game Reserve

Enjoy your scheduled game activities.

These include a choice of morning and afternoon game drives throughout the many different ecosystems that the Moremi Game Reserve has to offer. The Reserve is renowned for exceptional wildlife sightings including lion, leopard, wild dog, elephant, and exceptional general game. Perhaps explore the Xakanaxa Lagoon and its surrounding channels by boat, with its kaleidoscope of birdlife.

This blend of activities allows for access to incredible landscapes, and impressive wildlife as well as the opportunity to enjoy the picturesque waters of the Okavango Delta.

Overnight at Camp Moremi or Camp Xakanaxa in a luxury tent on an all-inclusive basis

Day 15
Inter-camp light aircraft transfer

After your morning activity, you will be collected and transferred by light aircraft to your camp located in the Okavango Delta.

Overnight at Camp Okavango in a suite or Xugana Island Lodge in a reed chalet on an all-inclusive basis

Day 16
Okavango Delta

Today enjoy your scheduled game activities.

Water-based activities are conducted by experienced professional guides who will expertly navigate guests through the many meandering, reed-lined waterways. Roam the vast expanses of water from the comfort of a modern motorboat or explore the intricacies of the Okavango Delta the quiet, old fashioned way, in the traditional mokoro (dugout canoe).

Day 17
Okavago Delta Chobe National Park

After your morning activity, you will be collected and transferred by light aircraft to Kasane where you will be met on arrival and transferred to your lodge inside Chobe National Park.
Enjoy your time at leisure until your afternoon game activity. You may choose to enjoy the swimming pool or spend time on the expansive deck which has magnificent views over the Chobe River.

Birding is spectacular with Schalows turaco, barred owlet and white-browed coucal resident in the gardens as well as rosy throated longclaw, western-banded snake-eagle and hooded vulture among a few of the 450 species of the Chobe region.

Overnight at Chobe Game Lodge in a standard room on an all-inclusive basis

Day 18-19
Exploring Chobe National Park

Enjoy your scheduled game activities.

No Chobe safari is complete without experiencing the beauty of the Chobe River and its incredible wildlife by boat. The riverboats are specifically designed to ensure each passenger can take in the magnificent Chobe views in complete comfort from anywhere on the boat.

Owing to the flexibility in seating arrangements and the flat deck, the boats are ideal for keen wildlife photographers, with ample space for equipment and the freedom to photograph from any angle.

Unlike any other water-based activity in Botswana, the game viewing while on a river safari in Chobe is unsurpassed anywhere in Botswana. Elephants line the water’s edge, hippo congregate in lagoons, hundreds of antelope and giraffe make their way to the water and sightings of predators along the riverbanks are common.

All of the boats at Chobe Game Lodge are solar-electric powered boats – a clean and quiet way to enjoy a boat safari and another first for tourism in Africa.

Owing to the location of Chobe Game Lodge inside the Chobe National Park, early-morning game drives set off as soon as the park opens, giving you the best chance of tracking predators while they are still active. The afternoon drives depart the lodge in the late afternoon (the exact time is dependent on the season), only returning at park closure time after sunset, thus maximising the time you spend out in the park to enjoy those special sightings.

The drives follow the course of the Chobe River as your experienced guide interprets the bush signs and tracks in search of the resident wildlife. Elephant encounters are common and huge herds of buffalo abound. The ever-present impala and the majestic giraffe are both common residents, while sightings of the puku antelope are also on offer.

Predators are plentiful in the northern region of the Chobe National Park, and excellent sightings of lion, wild dog and leopard are to be had.

The Chobe Game Lodge vehicles are open 4WD game viewers redesigned to make your trip comfortable and your viewing experience astonishing. Included in the fleet are several silent, CO2 emission-free electric vehicles designed to further enhance your Chobe safari.

Overnight at Chobe Game Lodge in a standard room on an all-inclusive basis

Day 20
Chobe National Park Victoria Falls

After your morning activity and breakfast, you will be transferred to your hotel in Victoria Falls

Overnight at Bayete Guest Lodge including breakfast

Day 21
Exploring Victoria Falls

Today enjoy a tour of the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable guide, explore the enchanting Rainforest and learn about the history, flora, fauna, and points of interest surrounding the falls. Feel the mist on your skin and hear the thundering sound as you stand in awe of Nature's Supreme Masterpiece.

Next, experience a Elephant Encounter, where you can interact with Africa's majestic elephants in a pristine wilderness. Learn about their conservation efforts and the challenges they face. Marvel at the elephants roaming freely across the vast landscape. Capture memorable photos and observe their natural behaviors.

Later, witness the breathtaking African sunset as you cruise along the Zambezi River.

Day 22
Community & Culture Connection

Your day begins with the Pay It Forward experience, where you’ll be introduced to local organizations in need of support. Choose a charity that resonates with you and receive a “wish list” of essential items they need. Embark on a fun and engaging quest through the bustling markets of Victoria Falls to gather these items. Once you’ve completed your shopping, you’ll visit the organization to personally deliver the goods, meeting the recipients and building a meaningful connection.

The tour continues with a visit to an authentic rural village located about 20 kilometers from Victoria Falls. Here, you’ll observe the rhythms of daily life, from tending fields to household activities, and may even get the chance to help with local chores. Meet the village chief and learn about traditions and community life directly from him.

After a full day of connection and impact, you'll be transported back to your hotel, enriched by the experiences and the meaningful contributions you’ve made.

Overnight at Bayete Guest Lodge including breakfast

Day 23
Victoria Falls Nairobi

Enjoy some time at leisure before a transfer to the airport in time for your flight to Nairobi

On arrival, you will met and assisted to the shuttle to your hotel located near the airport.

Overnight at the Four Points by Sheraton including breakfast

Day 24
Nairobi Masai Mara

In the morning, you will be picked up from your hotel and transferred to Wilson Airport for your scheduled flight to Masai Mara.

On arrival, you will be greeted and driven to the camp. After settling in, enjoy a delicious lunch at the camp. In the afternoon, embark on an exhilarating first game drive through the vast wilderness of Masai Mara, returning to camp as the sun sets. During your stay you can also visit a Masai village where you can connect with the residents and learn about their way of life.

Overnight at Governors Main Camp on full board basis.

Day 25-26
Masai Mara Game Reserve

Enjoy your included scheduled game activities

Rise early with a wake-up call for tea and coffee before departing for an early morning game drive. Witness the awakening of the savannah and the wildlife at its most active before the heat of the day sets in. Return to camp for a hearty breakfast. The rest of the morning is at your leisure to relax and enjoy the camp's amenities. After a satisfying lunch, head out for another game drive in the afternoon, exploring different parts of the Masai Mara and observing its diverse wildlife. Return to camp as the sun sets over the African plains.

For a once-in-a-lifetime experience, you may choose to take an optional Hot Air Balloon over the Masai Mara, and witness the awakening of the savannah and the wildlife at its most active before the heat of the day sets in.

Overnight at Governors Main Camp on full board basis.

Day 27
Masai Mara Nairobi

After breakfast at the camp, bid farewell to the wilderness of Masai Mara as you are transferred to the nearest airstrip for your scheduled flight back to Nairobi.

Upon arrival in Nairobi, you will be met and transferred your hotel.

Overnight at Four Points by Sheraton including breakfast

Day 28
Nairobi Volcanoes National Park

Catch the shuttle to the airport in time for your flight to Kigali.

On arrival into Kigali, on completion of customs and immigration formalities you will be met at the airport by a representative, who will brief you on your trip and introduce to your safari driver-guide.

You will then be transferred westward to Ruhengeri, the starting point for Gorilla trekking in Parc National des Volcanos. Ruhengeri, a town located just 25km from the Uganda border, is relatively small, with a population of approximately 350,000 people. The continuous influx of people in this town is quite remarkable. Ruhengeri boasts splendid views of the surrounding volcanoes, and the local population is known for their friendliness.

If time permits, visit the villages, local communities and markets or an optional visit to the little known by compellingly beautiful twin lakes Bulera and Ruhondo (extra cost)

Enjoy the rest of your day at leisure

Overnight at Gorilla Mountain View Lodge including Full Board

Day 29
Gorilla Trekking Kigali

Rise early for breakfast today before proceeding to the Volcanoes National Park Headquarters.

During the registration process, the park personnel will determine which gorilla group you will be visiting. There are a total of 96 gorilla permits available each day, and a maximum of eight trekkers are allowed to visit any one group. Once the trekkers are assigned to their respective groups, the Lead Guide for each group will provide a briefing on the trekking procedures and the guidelines for behavior in the presence of gorillas. Following the briefing, trekkers will return to their respective vehicles for the journey up the mountain to the starting point.

The duration of the trek can vary from two to six hours or more, especially if the gorillas have moved since the park rangers last located them. Along the way, the guides will make frequent stops to allow trekkers to rest and capture photos. The forest is dense and humid, with no defined trekking paths. The terrain is characterized by hills and steep slopes of the volcanoes, which may necessitate the use of branches, plant roots, and bushes to assist in ascending the steep inclines.

Once you encounter the gorillas, you will have a remarkable hour to observe them. They might be seen feeding on the ground, resting, moving about in the trees, or playing on the branches. Trackers often use machetes to clear vegetation, providing a clearer and closer view of the gorillas. Despite their immense size, these creatures exude grace and tranquility. Witnessing the silverbacks, the mature males, rise and assert their dominance over the territory is a truly awe-inspiring experience.

Afterward, return to the lodge for lunch. In the afternoon, you will be return to Kigali for dinner and overnight

Overnight at Park Inn Hotel including breakfast

Day 30
Depart Kigali

Enjoy your morning at leisure before your transfer to Kigali Airport

What’s Included

Accommodation
  • Included Copy 20 Accommodation with meals as specified
  • Included Copy 31 Upgrades available
Fees & Services
  • Included Copy 20 All transfers and excursions with entrance fees as specified
  • Included Copy 20 Scheduled economy class flights: Cape Town to Hoedspruit Return, Johannesburg to Maun
  • Included Copy 20 Scheduled economy class flights: Victoria Falls to Nairobi, Nairobi to Kigali
  • Included Copy 20 Internal light aircraft flights in Botswana and Kenya
  • Included Copy 20 1 x Gorilla Permit
  • Included Copy 31 Optional: Hot Air Balloon over the Masai Mara
  • Included Copy 7 Any flights not specified, gratiuties, visas, insurance and anything else not specified

Activities

  • Included Spot wildlife as you glide through Botswana’s Okavango Delta in a traditional dugout canoe
  • Included Explore the vibrant Bo-Kaap neighborhood while sampling authentic local flavors.
  • Included Witness the meeting point of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans at Cape Point
  • Included Relish a serene evening cruise on the Zambezi, with spectacular views the surrounding wilderness
  • Included Discover Kenya’s famed Masai Mara, where you’ll search for wildlife across vast savannas.
  • Included Visit local communities, support community-driven initiatives, and experience cultural exchanges.
  • Included Savor some of the world’s best wines in South Africa’s beautiful vineyards.
  • Included Spot elephants and other wildlife along the Chobe River on eco-friendly, solar-powered boats.
  • Included Engage in immersive game drives and guided walking safaris within an exclusive reserve.
  • Included Trek into the forests of Volcanoes National Park for an intimate encounter with mountain gorillas.
Click here for dates & prices
Duration

30 days

Price from

$20,447 USD

Per person, sharing

Daily, on request