Deep in the South African bush, miles from glittering city lights, you’re more likely to hear the trumpet of an elephant than the toot of a car horn from your luxurious lodge tucked in a sprawling reserve. As darkness unfolds under a starry sky, you’re handed a pair of night vision goggles that turns this wildlife tour into an absolutely magical experience as you peer into the mysterious world of nocturnal animals.
This is just one of the unique experiences you’ll have on Tauck’s South Africa: An Elegant Adventure. The 12-day tour takes you on a jet-setting journey to verdant wine country, sprawling game reserves, and the urban sanctuaries of Cape Town and Johannesburg. On this immersive, luxurious journey, you’ll also view custom-made BBC Earth vignettes and attend live talks from local experts on history and culture.
Photo Credit: Tauck
The Company
Since its launch as a New England tour company in 1925, Tauck has been a pioneer in the travel industry; they now boast more than 140 trips across seven continents. Their innovative approach to travel showcases the real South Africa through one-of-a-kind experiences and expertise, including an exciting partnership with BBC Earth. As you travel across the country, each stop reveals another layer in the story of South Africa.
For those who want to combine adventure and luxury, Tauck has carefully selected stylish hotels, excursions, and restaurants. Along with wildlife outings, guided tours, and cultural activities, you’ll have downtime to enjoy the good life through lavish spas, sparkling pools, and exquisite dinners. For discerning travelers who want to see it all, Tauck has turned the classic South Africa itinerary into a lavish dream trip.
Photo Credit: Tauck
The Tour
Start your journey in one of the world’s most beautiful cities at the renowned Cape Grace, a hotel handpicked by Tauck for its stunning setting on the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Designed to feel like you’re visiting the home of a well-connected friend, each room features curated furniture, opulent textiles, and thoughtful amenities. During the three days you spend in Cape Town, you’ll tour important landmarks; drive to South Africa’s scenic wine country for a leisurely dinner at one of the area’s oldest and most acclaimed estates; and visit the historic lighthouse at Cape Point.
Next, you’ll hop on a short flight to Skukuza Airport, gateway to the legendary Kruger National Park. Here you’ll explore the rugged landscape with morning and evening game drives through the 12,000-acre national park, best known for its high density of leopards, as well as elephants, cheetahs, and rhinos. During these outings, you may have a chance to use specialized field equipment, such as night vision goggles and thermal-camera imaging for a rare look at nocturnal wildlife. Back at camp, enjoy a backstage pass to the people, places, and wildlife of the area while you view compelling film vignettes produced exclusively for Tauck by BBC Earth in the same style as their documentaries. Your home here is the plush Lion Sands; you’ll have private outdoor showers and balconies with gorgeous river or bush views, and dine on delicious regional cuisine.
Photo Credit: Tauck
DOOK
Continuing to the bordering Sabi Sands Game Reserve, you’ll settle into the elegant Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge. Inspired by local culture and traditions, each thatched suite features woodcarvings by South African artists, as well as spacious lounges and private patios for wildlife viewing. Between game drives to see the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalos—you can relax in the outdoor swimming pool or pamper yourself at the Bush Nature Spa.
Leaving behind the bush, you’ll fly from Skukuza Airport to Johannesburg and find a base in the tony suburb of Rosebank at the boutique 54 on Bath hotel. While in Jo’burg, you’ll tour Soweto, see Nelson Mandela’s home, and the Apartheid Museum, among other key landmarks.
Photo Credit: Tauck
For the final leg of your trip, you’ll fly to Victoria Falls for an epic trip-ender, which includes a sunset cruise down the Zambezi River. A short walk from the falls, you’ll check into the historic Victoria Falls Hotel, established in 1904, which has hosted dignitaries and celebrities for more than a century. You might also catch performance by Makishi dancers and an indigenous choir.
You’ll finish up at an elephant sanctuary, where you’ll enjoy a private lunch, observe these incredibly intelligent animals, and realize what you’ve truly gained on this journey.
Browse other South African tours with Tauck and plan the luxury adventure of a lifetime.
