Christmas in South Africa

  • history
    DURATION
    16 days, 15 nights
  • history
    DURATION DAYS
    16 days
  • history
    DURATION NIGHTS
    15 nights
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    DEPARTURE MONTHS
    December 2025 - December 2026
  • Once-in-a-lifetime journey through South Africa's highlights
  • Witness the incredible wildlife of the Kruger
  • Spend a magical Christmas Eve and Day at Kruger
  • Immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan allure of Cape Town

Enjoy Christmas at the height of summer with a once-in-a-lifetime journey through South Africa’s highlights! Witness the incredible wildlife of the Kruger, traverse the scenic Garden Route with its magnificent coastline and charming towns, to finally immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan allure of Cape Town. Celebrate Christmas Day in the picturesque Winelands, indulging in exquisite food and fine wines. This unforgettable adventure showcases the best of South Africa’s diverse landscapes and experiences with a festive twist.

Visit an ostrich farm - Known as the "Ostrich Capital of the World." Enjoy a guided tour that allows you to interact with and learn about these birds. Experience feeding sessions, learning more about these graceful birds as this farm showcases the historical significance of ostrich feathers. Enjoy lunch here, tasting many of its delicacies.

African Drums - Participate in an African drum experience that is a journey into the heart of cultural traditions. Guided by skilled drummers, you'll explore the intricacies of hand placement and strikes, creating a collective synergy of beats that echo ancient rhythms. It's not just a drumming session; it's a celebration of heritage, where you become part of a rhythmic conversation.

Observe the penguins - Observe the penguins at Boulders Beach, as they waddle along the soft, sandy shores, surrounded by weathered granite boulders that give the beach its name. Witness their comical antics, in this idyllic setting, nestled against the rugged beauty of the Western Cape, allowing for observation of these endearing birds in their natural habitat.

Johannesburg (1N) - Panorama Route (1N) - Greater Kruger National Park (3N) - Gqeberha (1N) - Knysna (1N) - Oudtshoorn (1N) - Cape Town (5N)

Photos

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Itinerary Map

Inclusions/Exclusions

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  • International flights (prices may vary depending on departure city)
  • All domestic transportation
  • Most meals
  • Breakfasts: 12 /Lunches: 11 /Dinners: 10
  • 3 - 4* accommodation
  • Touring with guides and entrance fees
Your fare excludes:
  • T​ravel insurance

Itinerary

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    Days 1-2: Fly To Johannesburg

    Fly to the vibrant Johannesburg, South Africa's largest city. In recent years, Johannesburg has enjoyed a rapid rise becoming the cultural capital, packed with diverse style, art, music, and gastronomy that is representative of the country as a whole. On arrival, you will be met and transferred to your hotel, where the rest of the day is yours to relax and start exploring your surroundings.

    Includes: Dinner

    Day 3: Mpumalanga

    Following breakfast, visit Constitution Hill before embarking on a journey to the Mpumalanga Panorama Route region. This enchanting and scenic area, embraced by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, waterfalls, and canyons, unfolds in lush greenery during the summer season. Serving as a splendid gateway to the renowned Kruger National Park, the region awaits your check-in, leaving the remainder of the day for you to relax at your leisure.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 4: Panorama Route

    Take a ride in the Graskop Gorge Lift, offering stunning views of the forest canopy. Continue your journey to God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes, a natural marvel featuring swirling pools and unique rock formations. After Three Rondavels, check in at the private game in time to partake in a dusk safari for the chance to encounter local wildlife.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 5: Greater Kruger National Park

    Spend today on thrilling game drives, the primary means of exploring the park, providing a close encounter with the animals. At dinner engage in an African drumming class where you'll not only master traditional beats but also delve into the rich cultural history, discovering how stories, songs, and traditions have been passed down through the universal language of rhythm and dance.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 6: Greater Kruger National Park

    Another day of opportunities for spotting 'The Big 5', as your expert ranger and tracker lead the way. Adept at spotting wildlife and sharing insights about the animals and their habitats, they ensure memorable and informative game drives, while contributing to the park's overall conservation efforts.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 7: Fly To Gqeberha

    Transfer back to Johannesburg and fly to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). On arrival, transfer to your hotel in time for dinner.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 8: Garden Route

    Set out this morning on your journey to Knysna, with a captivating stop at Oudebosch Protea Farm, where you'll discover fascinating insights into the country's national flower. Continue to Tsitsikamma National Park, a protected expanse celebrated for its breath-taking coastal and forest scenery. As you travel further south, you'll reach the charming town of Knysna, renowned for its scenic lagoon, the iconic Knysna Heads, and a lively waterfront that adds vibrancy to its picturesque surroundings.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 9: Discover Knysna

    The standout experience today is The Featherbed Eco Experience, an enchanting journey that commences with a picturesque boat cruise across the Knysna Lagoon. Following this, a guided tractor ride elevates you to the summit of the western head, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the lagoon, ocean, and mountains. A leisurely nature walk through the coastal forest unveils the unique flora and fauna of the area, culminating in a delightful lunch amid this beautiful setting. Continue to Oudtshoorn where you will have the rest of the day at leisure.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 10: Oudtshoorn To Cape Town

    Explore Oudtshoorn, where your exploration begins with the captivating Cango Caves, an underground marvel adorned with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Subsequently, venture to an ostrich farm for a tractor tour and indulge in a delectable lunch showcasing ostrich delicacies, before continuing to Cape Town.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch

    Day 11: Cape Town

    Your adventures today take you around the highlights of Cape Town! Cruise past landmarks such as the Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens, and Houses of Parliament before ascending Table Mountain (weather permitting) via the cableway. Lunch will be in the colourful neighbourhood, Bo-Kaap, where you get to help prepare delicious Cape cuisine, enjoying the warm spices and unique flavours.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch

    Day 12: Cape Peninsula

    Today starts with a sea island cruise to witness playful seals in their natural habitat. If the weather permits, embark on a breath-taking drive along Chapman's Peak, revealing sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the rugged beauty of Cape Point, the meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, and enjoy a visit to Boulders Beach, renowned for its resident African penguin colony, offering a close-up observation of these charming creatures. Celebrate tonight with an unforgettable dinner at Gold Restaurant, an immersive and authentic African experience.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

    Day 13: The Winelands

    Merry Christmas!! This year your Christmas Day will be filled with sunshine, gorgeous scenery and great wine, as you explore the renowned Winelands. Commencing with a drive through Stellenbosch before heading to Franschhoek. At Boschendal Wine Estate, take in the scenic vineyards and delve into its rich history, tasting exquisite wines. Stop for a delectable Christmas lunch at Rickety Bridge, where magnificent views enhance your experience.

    Includes: Breakfast, Lunch

    Day 14: Cape Town At Leisure

    Enjoy Boxing day at leisure in Cape Town, with time to shop or explore with endless options to keep you busy in this wonderful city. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the vibrant V&A Waterfront, dining on a variety of traditional dishes in a relaxed setting.

    Includes: Breakfast, Dinner

    Day 15-16: Depart Cape Town

    Depart to the airport for your flight back to Australia arriving the next day.

    Includes: Breakfast

* The above itinerary is subject to change.

Dates and Prices

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  • 13 Dec 2025 - 27 Dec 2025
    from $15,480 pp twin share / $18,470 pp solo
  • 13 Dec 2026 - 27 Dec 2026
    from $15,580 pp twin share / $19,080 pp solo

Advertised pricing subject to departure date and availability. Please call 1300 414 198 to confirm up-to-the-moment availability and pricing.

Accommodation

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DaVinci Hotel and Suites - Sandton, Johannesburg, South Africa
This Sandton hotel is located at Nelson Mandela Square, Sandton City with its shopping mall and restaurants right on the doorstep. It offers spacious, air-conditioned rooms and a full English breakfast.

Angels View Graskop - Graskop, South Africa
A Beautiful hotel that is ideally located along the Drakensberg escarpment, with the Panorama route in close proximity.

Shiduli Private Game Lodge - Karongwe Game Reserve, South Africa
Nestled along the borders of the Karongwe Game Reserve, Shiduli Private Game Lodge epitomizes a harmonious blend of sophistication and charm, while radiating an unparalleled sense of warmth and welcoming hospitality.

Protea by Marriott Hotel Knysna Quays - Knysna, South Africa
This property has a spectacular view of the coastal town of Knysna, and is a popular choice along the Garden Route. With scenic surroundings and set on the Knysna Quays waterfront, this hotels offers a wonderful stay.

The Portswood - Cape Town, South Africa
Ideally located right at the entrance, within easy walking distance to the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. The lobby and restaurant have been built around a 300 year old well and offers guests a very comfortable stay.

T&Cs

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Travel at 60 and supplier booking conditions apply.

    • Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2024. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
    • Customary tipping amount of approximately USD180pp (AU$268pp) is paid locally.
    • Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
    • Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
    • Price subject to change.
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Prices per person from

A$15,480

A$18,470

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Prices per person from

A$15,480

A$18,470