City, Safari & Beach

Itinerary

• Mozambique

  Mozambique seems to have finally found peace after decades of internal conflict, and many visitors revel in the "untouched" beaches and pristine islands that are free from development and sprawl. The main cities of Maputo or Beira are most easily reached by flight from nearby South Africa. First colonized by the Portuguese in the early 1500s, it has an intriguing legacy of colonial forts and buildings.

• Benguerra Island

  Benguerra Island in Mozambique is the second largest island in the Bazaruto Archipelago, which broke away from the mainland thousands of years ago. The island is approximately 55 square kilometers (11km long x 5.5 km wide), and lies 14km offshore. It is famous for its unspoiled white beaches, remarkable dive sites, excellent horse riding and incredible fishing.

• South Africa

  South Africa is located at the southern tip of Africa, and features one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Cape Town. A sublime location, great beaches, nearby vineyards, great food, and cheap diamonds - there is a lot of love about the city. The Garden Route is a short drive away, passing through the quaint towns of Mossel Bay, George, Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Plettenberg Bay and Nature's Valley. It is best experienced with an overnight in Knysna.  Kruger National Park is another top draw, and boasts some of the finest lodges on the continent.

• Cape Town

  Cape Town is the second most populous city in South Africa, famous for its harbour as well as its natural setting in the Cape floral kingdom, including such well-known landmarks as Table Mountain and Cape Point. Popular day activities include; Robben Island (Nelson Mandela's prison), Cape Point, Stellenbosch winery tour, diamond buying shops, and great white shark diving.

• Johannesburg

  Johannesburg or Jo'burg, as the locals call the city of the gold, is the biggest metropolis in South Africa. With its 3.2 million citizens the city on the Witwatersrand is the predominant commercial centre and the economic motor of the Republic of South Africa. It is the international flight gateway for most of southern Africa.

• Sabi Sands

  The Sabi Sands Game Reserve is undoubtedly the most exclusive private game reserve in South Africa. The 65,000-hectare Sabi Sands Game Reserve is located on the south-western corner of the Kruger National Park. There are no restricting fences between the Kruger Park and Sabi Sands Reserve and the wildlife roams freely between the two game reserves. Some of the best and most exclusive private game lodges in the country are in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve and the chances of seeing the Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) are excellent.

• • Cape Town
  • Cape Cadogan

  Day 1: Cape Town

  Upon arrival into South Africa you will be met at the door of the plane and escorted through Customs and Immigration avoiding any queues. You will also receive all of your necessary documents for your trip which contains a detailed personalized itinerary, maps, restaurant suggestions, top tips for exploring each city or region and a 24 hour concierge service (for restaurant reservations, spa treatments, child minders, day tours etc.)

  Enjoy a private transfer between the airport and your hotel.

  Accommodation: Cape Cadogan

  The Cape Cadogan is a stately double-storeyed Georgian and Victorian building that dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. It was originally a farmhouse which was ‘Victorianised’ in 1912 and declared a national monument in 1984.

• • Cape Town

  Day 2: Cape Town

  Today you will be met by your guide for an exploration of Cape Town, known affectionately as the Mother City. Your tour will take in the Houses of Parliament, the Castle (built between 1666 and 1679, this is South Africa’s oldest building), lively Greenmarket Square with its daily market, the Company Gardens and of course Table Mountain which will give you spectacular views over the city and Peninsula (cable car fee is not included as it is weather dependent). On our descent, we stop at the Bo Kaap, home to the Cape Malay community, with its cobbled streets and brightly coloured houses.

  Accommodation: Cape Cadogan
• • Penguins

  Day 3: Cape Town

  Today we embark on a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula. We take in the beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay, before crossing over to Hout Bay, where you may choose to join an optional boat cruise to Seal Island. From here we drive to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve via Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breathtaking coastal drives, where you will board a funicular to the top of the Peninsula to witness the symbolic meeting of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans as well as have spectacular views over False Bay. We enjoy lunch near here (not included – own account) before continuing to Simonstown, the naval base, and visiting the African Penguin breeding colony at Boulders Beach. En route back we stop at the world renowned Kirstenbosch Gardens before returning back to your hotel.

  Accommodation: Cape Cadogan
• • Winelands

  Day 4: Cape Town

  Today a resident Winelands guide will join you for a tailor made wine experience, exploring the best this area has to offer. Your day can include Paarl with its imposing Afrikaans Language Monument and estates such as Seidelberg and Fairview - and of course the Franschhoek Valley, including exceptional estates such as Haute Cabriere Moreson, La Motte and Grande Provence. You will delight in the cheese tastings in the 200 year old barn at La Grange Fromagerie, chocolate tasting at the Franschhoek Chocolate factory and lunch at one of the top estates (own account but wine tastings included). Return to Franshhoek town with some time to relax before heading back to your hotel.

  Accommodation: Cape Cadogan
• • Sabi Sands
  • Founders Camp

  Day 5: Cape Town - Nelspruit (KMIA) - Sabi Sands

  Enjoy a private transfer between the airport and your hotel.

  Take your flight from Cape Town to Kruger (KMIA) today. The flight duration is approximately 1.5 hrs.

  Private transfer to your lodge from KMIA Airport. This trasfer will take approximately 2.5 to 3 hours.

  This afternoon you'll meet up with others at the lodge and embark on your afternoon game drive. Sunrise and sunset are when the animals are most active. You'll be out in the reserve for a few hours before returning back to the lodge to freshen up for dinner. A private vehicle can be booked at an additional cost dependant on availability.

  Accommodation: Londolozi Founders Camp

  Seated in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Londolozi is a lush safari getaway for those who want to be pampered in the wild. Londolozi is one of the original pioneering lodges of the ecotourism industry in South Africa and an unashamedly family run, stand alone operation. The root of the word Londolozi is in the Zulu word for protect and means “protector of all living things” – an ambitious conservation ethic that Londolozi embraces in its sensitivity to the natural world. The reserve is internationally recognised for its far-sighted and progressive management of land and wildlife rehabilitation as well as productive community involvement.. World renowned as one of Africa’s finest game lodges, Londolozi was the first game reserve in the world to be accorded Relais & Chateaux status, reinforcing its commitment to luxurious accommodation, fine cuisine and exceptional service.

• • Morning Game Drive

  Day 6: Sabi Sands

  Before first light you'll meet up with others at the lodge and embark on your early morning game drive. Sunrise and sunset are when the animals are most active. You'll be out in the reserve for a few hours before returning back to the lodge for breakfast. A private vehicle can be booked at an additional cost depending on availability.

  This afternoon you'll meet up with others at the lodge and embark on your afternoon game drive. Sunrise and sunset are when the animals are most active. You'll be out in the reserve for a few hours before returning back to the lodge to freshen up for dinner. A private vehicle can be booked at an additional cost dependant on availability.

  Accommodation: Londolozi Founders Camp
• • Sabi

  Day 7: Sabi Sands

  Before first light you'll meet up with others at the lodge and embark on your early morning game drive. Sunrise and sunset are when the animals are most active. You'll be out in the reserve for a few hours before returning back to the lodge for breakfast. A private vehicle can be booked at an additional cost depending on availability.

  This afternoon you'll meet up with others at the lodge and embark on your afternoon game drive. Sunrise and sunset are when the animals are most active. You'll be out in the reserve for a few hours before returning back to the lodge to freshen up for dinner. A private vehicle can be booked at an additional cost dependant on availability.

  Accommodation: Londolozi Founders Camp
• • Benguerra Island
  • Helicopter Transfer
  • Marlin Lodge, Mozambique

  Day 8: Sabi Sands - Nelspruit (KMIA) - Vilanculos - Benguerra Island

  Private transfer from your lodge from to KMIA Airport. This trasfer will vary depending on the location of your lodge and can take 3+hrs.

  Flight form KMIA to Vilanculos Mozambique. Flight departs Mon/Wed/Fri/Sun only.

  Helicopter transfer from Vilanculos to Benguerra Island today. The flight duration is approximately 30 mins.

  A kaleidoscope of colour greets you above and below the ocean. Magnificent reefs for diving and snorkelling, home to the turtles that nest on the island’s outer shores. Migrating whales, dolphins, and the elusive and protected dugong ply these waters, along with marlin, sailfish and tuna to tempt the sports fishermen. On land, towering sand dunes give way to indigenous bush abundant with local flora and fauna, an interesting variety of birdlife, as well as the odd crocodile or two at the lakes. The island’s local people make for fascinating cultural encounters, and the starry night sky is quite magnificent to behold. Guests staying more than 3 nights will receive a free Land Rover island drive, sunset dhow cruise, and 15 minute refresher massage on arrival (subject to availability). We also arrange lots of special treats for honeymooners!

  Accommodation: Marlin Lodge

  At the Marlin Lodge, the natural plant life is carefully preserved by elevated wooden walkways that connect the 14 Seafront Luxury Beach Chalets and three Executive Beach Suites to the main areas. Attention to detail, soft, inviting furnishings and colours that reflect the lush island greenery and sparkling blue ocean, complete the picture.  At Marlin Lodge you are free to surrender to a nonchalant way of life. This is where time slows down and lasting memories of unhurried bliss are made. Rejuvenate and reawaken body and soul, and indulge in mighty Africa’s most beautiful island refuge. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodation, delectable food served in secret locations, rejuvenating wellness treatments and exhilarating explorations on land or under water or cool off in the sparkling 11-metre pool in the shade of Ilala palms and large umbrellas.

• • Sunset

  Day 9: Benguerra Island

  There are land based activities too. Take a tour of the island, and experience the local culture. Climb the dunes, some of which are scattered with the remnants of ancient Arab pottery. Visit the island’s lakes and spot a crocodile or two. Discover the local fauna and flora. Take a long walk and we will meet you with a picnic. Or join one of our star gazing events and lie back and listen to the ancient African stories that chart the cosmos. The view of the stars and milky way from Azura is quite spectacular.

  Accommodation: Marlin Lodge
• • Beach

  Day 10: Benguerra Island

  Many of our activities are focused around the sea and reefs of Benguerra Island. You can snorkel, dive or fish the waters which are abundant with marine life. Watch the sunset as you sail on our dhow, or cruise to deserted beaches to look for pansy shells. Gaze at the dolphins, who are regular visitors to our beach, or track down humpback whales on their migration past the island’s shores (seasonal).

  Accommodation: Marlin Lodge

• Day 11: Benguerra Island

  Many of our activities are focused around the sea and reefs of Benguerra Island. You can snorkel, dive or fish the waters which are abundant with marine life. Watch the sunset as you sail on our dhow, or cruise to deserted beaches to look for pansy shells. Gaze at the dolphins, who are regular visitors to our beach, or track down humpback whales on their migration past the island’s shores (seasonal).

  Accommodation: Marlin Lodge
• • Johannesburg

  Day 12: Benguerra Island - Vilanculos - Johannesburg

  Enjoy time at leisure to explore at your own pace, or relax at your hotel.

  Helicopter from Benguerra to Vilanculos. The flight duration is approximately 30 mins.

  Take your flight from Vilanculos (VNX) to Johannesburg (JNB) this afternoon.

  Accommodation: Depart

  Depart from Johannesburg international airport - End of itinerary.

Accommodation

• Wildlife Encounters

  The African Elephant is a notably intelligent animal due to their large brain, and has a distinct social conduct from other animals. Herds consist of related females and their young, directed by the eldest female, or matriarch. Elephants remain close to their families, the relationship between each elephant is very strong and they recognize each other even after long periods apart. During migration, the matriarch decides the route and leads the group to all the water sources she knows. The other members of the herd will memorize these places for the future. Males stay with the herd only long enough to remain self sufficient, and then go to form their own groups with other males. They will only approach a herd in response to a mating call, which can occur at any time of the year.

• Culinary Delights

  South Africa has emerged as a polyglot cuisine. European colonization, the adaptation of the native Bantu cooking, and mass immigration of migrant workers have all contributed. The Dutch brought their forms of agriculture, and British merchants imported "mixed grills" that now include African game meats. The French introduced the cultivation of vineyards. Malay workers and East Indians added curries and spice to the plain English-Dutch influence. Local game, and lamb, the famous South African lobster, and a vast repertoire of fish combine to create a truly cosmopolitan cuisine.

• Kid's Fun

  Butterfly is the largest free flying park for butterflies in Southern Africa. It is an enclosed garden boasting a spectacular array of colourful butterflies which fly freely around you, as well as loads of water features and exotic plants. The location of Butterfly World is perfect as it lies at the junction of the main wine routes of Stellenbosch and Paarl. There is no time limit on a visit to Butterfly so you can take as many photographs and videos as you like, or just sit down on a bench and admire these beautiful creatures fly around you. Refreshments and light meals are available from the Schmetterling restaurant, and the craft shop stocks butterfly related goods.

• • Cape Cadogan

  Cape Cadogan

  The Cape Cadogan is a stately double-storeyed Georgian and Victorian building that dates back to the beginning of the 19th century. It was originally a farmhouse which was ‘Victorianised’ in 1912 and declared a national monument in 1984.

  • More information
• • Founders Camp
  • Chalet

  Londolozi Founders Camp

  Seated in the Sabi Sands Game Reserve, Londolozi is a lush safari getaway for those who want to be pampered in the wild. Londolozi is one of the original pioneering lodges of the ecotourism industry in South Africa and an unashamedly family run, stand alone operation. The root of the word Londolozi is in the Zulu word for protect and means “protector of all living things” – an ambitious conservation ethic that Londolozi embraces in its sensitivity to the natural world. The reserve is internationally recognised for its far-sighted and progressive management of land and wildlife rehabilitation as well as productive community involvement.. World renowned as one of Africa’s finest game lodges, Londolozi was the first game reserve in the world to be accorded Relais & Chateaux status, reinforcing its commitment to luxurious accommodation, fine cuisine and exceptional service.

  • More information
• • Marlin Lodge, Mozambique
  • Luxury Suite Interior

  Marlin Lodge

  At the Marlin Lodge, the natural plant life is carefully preserved by elevated wooden walkways that connect the 14 Seafront Luxury Beach Chalets and three Executive Beach Suites to the main areas. Attention to detail, soft, inviting furnishings and colours that reflect the lush island greenery and sparkling blue ocean, complete the picture.  At Marlin Lodge you are free to surrender to a nonchalant way of life. This is where time slows down and lasting memories of unhurried bliss are made. Rejuvenate and reawaken body and soul, and indulge in mighty Africa’s most beautiful island refuge. Guests can enjoy spacious accommodation, delectable food served in secret locations, rejuvenating wellness treatments and exhilarating explorations on land or under water or cool off in the sparkling 11-metre pool in the shade of Ilala palms and large umbrellas.

  • More information

The Fine Print

• Trip Operator

  Horizon & Co. (founded in 1963), is a privately-owned leading boutique travel company. Horizon designs and stages authentic and deeply personal travel experiences that are carefully choreographed to induce a life-long memory. In addition to offering published trips on seven continents, Horizon builds private custom trips for discerning individuals and small groups.

• Contact Information

  Horizon & Co.
  Tel: 1-800-387-2977
  Email: admin@horizon-co.com
  Web: www.horizon-co.com

• What's Included:

  • Guaranteed departure - Accommodation, Activities, Transfers, Meals, Fees where indicated as per the itinerary - Local and international traveler assistance during your tour - Specialised and personalised services

• What's not Included:

  • Tips - Laundry - Soft drinks and alcoholic beverages unless explicitly noted - Optional activities/extras – Visas (unless noted) - Vacation insurance

• Trip Terms & Conditions

  • Your deposit is due immediately on booking (30% of program price, minimum $250). The balance is due 90 days prior to departure. We accept payment via credit card, certified check, wire transfer or money order.
  • Tour quotes do not include airfare to/from the trip start point unless noted on the itinerary
  • Cost increases in currency exchange, government fees, taxes, surcharges or hotel/lodge tariff increases between quote date and start date are payable by the client.
  • Availability cannot be guaranteed until booked. We will exercise best efforts to book hotels per the itinerary, however, in busy seasons and with client bookings made within 90 days of tour date we may be forced to offer substitutes.
  • Cancellations of confirmed bookings 90 days or more prior to departure will receive full refund minus a $350 (per person) administrative fee and any non-refundable paid fees (e.g. non-refundable airfare, cruise or hotel deposits). 60-89 days will be subject to loss of deposit. 30-59 days will be subject to loss of 50% of program price. 29 days or less will be subject to 100% of program price.
  • Payment of the program price constitutes your acceptance of the terms and conditions set out at www.horizon-co.com/terms-and-conditions
  • Living Standards and practices at destination may differ from those in North America with respect to provisions of utilities, services and accommodation.

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