BEST OF SOUTH AFRICA - Expedia CruiseShipCenters · the greatest natural wonders of the world. And,...

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BEST OF SOUTH AFRICA HOSTED SAFARI WITH SUSAN FERGUSON | SEP 20 – OCT 2, 2017 Join your host Susan Ferguson on an amazing trip to Africa. When asked about my favourite trip, there is no hesitation to say Africa. After 2 trips to East Africa’s region of Kenya I am off to explore South Africa, Botswana, and Victoria Falls. This trip has been arranged to highlight many of the wonders of Africa from the amazing animals to wineries, and some of the greatest natural wonders of the world. And, while the core trip is South Africa, we have options for additional days at both, the beginning or end of your trip as well as a ‘custom’ pre tour to ‘East Africa’ designed by Susan. (604) 985 7447 Ι 1 (888) 392 7447 110 West Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC www.cruiseshipcenters.com/NorthVancouver “Planning unique trips is what I love best!” “Whatever your travel needs, I will research & assist you to make your trip a wonderful experience.” After over 30 years experience in Sales & Marketing at BC Tel/Telus, a passion for travel resulted in a career change. Susan now offers 10 years experience working in the travel business. $ 8,329 * PP CAD Single Supplement $3,385 Deposit: $ 750 PP CAD ( $ 250 non-refundable). See the end of the document for inclusions & exclusions. *All prices are per person in Canadian dollars and based on double occupancy for the first and second passengers only, on specific room categories and are subject to availability at time of booking. Additional restrictions may apply. Contact your Expedia CruiseShipCenters Vacation Consultant for full terms and conditions. BC Reg #: 25615/6

Transcript of BEST OF SOUTH AFRICA - Expedia CruiseShipCenters · the greatest natural wonders of the world. And,...

Page 1: BEST OF SOUTH AFRICA - Expedia CruiseShipCenters · the greatest natural wonders of the world. And, while the core trip is South Africa, we have options for additional days at both,

BEST OF SOUTH AFRICAH O S T E D S A FA R I W I T H S U S A N F E R G U S O N | S E P 2 0 – O C T 2 , 2 0 1 7

Join your host Susan Ferguson on an amazing trip to Africa. When asked about my favourite trip, there is no hesitation to

say Africa. After 2 trips to East Africa’s region of Kenya I am off to explore South Africa, Botswana, and Victoria Falls. This

trip has been arranged to highlight many of the wonders of Africa from the amazing animals to wineries, and some of

the greatest natural wonders of the world. And, while the core trip is South Africa, we have options for additional days

at both, the beginning or end of your trip as well as a ‘custom’ pre tour to ‘East Africa’ designed by Susan.

(604) 985 7447 Ι 1 (888) 392 7447110 West Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC

www.cruiseshipcenters.com/NorthVancouver

“Planning unique trips is what I love best!”

“Whatever your travel needs, I will research & assist you to make your trip a wonderful experience.”

After over 30 years experience in Sales & Marketing at BC Tel/Telus, a passion for travel resulted in a career change. Susan now offers 10 years experience working in the travel business.

$8,329* PP CAD Single Supplement $3,385Deposit: $750 PP CAD ($250 non-refundable). See the end of the document for inclusions & exclusions.

*All prices are per person in Canadian dollars and based on double occupancy for the first and second passengers only, on specific room categories and are subject to availability at time of booking. Additional restrictions may apply. Contact your Expedia CruiseShipCenters Vacation Consultant for full terms and conditions. BC Reg #: 25615/6

Page 2: BEST OF SOUTH AFRICA - Expedia CruiseShipCenters · the greatest natural wonders of the world. And, while the core trip is South Africa, we have options for additional days at both,

20 SEPT | ARRIVE IN CAPE TOWN

On arrival in Cape Town you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your hotel located in the heart of the V&A Waterfront.

The Dutch settlement at Table Bay, under the leadership of Jan van Riebeeck was established in 1652. Its purpose was to supply fresh produce and meat to the fleets of the Dutch East India Company for their voyages between Europe and the Spice Islands to the east. In the early days, the settlement was known among sailors from around the world s “The Tavern of the Seas”, and to this day Cape Town has maintained a reputation of friendly hospitality. With is majestic Table Mountain backdrop, Cape Town is undisputedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world. ACCOMMODATION: Table Bay Hotel, Luxury rooms (4 Nights).

21 SEPT | CAPE TOWN CITY TOUR & WELCOME DINNER (BD)

This morning, enjoy breakfast at the hotel before you are picked up for your half-day tour of Cape Town. Come with us on the ultimate ‘Mother City’ experience, designed to orientate and give you a full-colour insight into the extraordinary magic of Cape Town. We’ve chosen iconic buildings, snatches of its history, and experiences unique to this City. First up, it’s the cable car to the summit of the legendary Table Mountain – weather permitting – and from there, you’ll be able to see to the end of our world, including the City and surrounding layout of this southernmost tip of Africa. We visit the country’s oldest building, The Castle (closed Sundays), and a short distance away, the Company Gardens, both historically fascinating and well conserved. Our drive continues past Parliament Buildings, City Hall and the Slave Lodge, and you’ll sense the depth of history via their distinctive architecture. Colonial then changes to colourful, as we move up the cobblestoned hills to the Malay Quarter, and marvel at the ice-cream colours of the quaint Bo-Kaap homes. Our day ends on a sparkling note, as we trace the moves of a professional diamond cutter, as he creates every girl’s dream stone. Perhaps you’ll be taking one home…

Your afternoon is at leisure to explore the shops at the V&A Waterfront or perhaps take an optional cruise to Robben Island to visit the prison where Nelson Mandela was held for nearly 18yrs.

Tonight, enjoy a special welcome dinner. The drums of Angola and the Congo beat an invitation. The feet of the Xhosa and Congolese dancers tell the story of Africa. The unaccompanied singers sing songs from all over the continent. It is this soup of African influences which welcome you to Gold – the Cape Town restaurant with a difference. This inviting

venue opens its arms to local and international guests every day for dinner which features the full African food journey through southern and central Africa. Add to this a healthy dose of Cape Malay cuisine and you have the freshest, most interestingly African menu in the Cape. Between sampling a wide range of starters and the superb selection of main dishes, each with their own African or Malay tradition but served with the chef ’s modern day twist, the dancers and drummers slowly cajoled the diners into a unique dinner experience.

22 SEPT | FULL DAY CAPE WINELANDS (BL)

Embark on a spectacular journey around the Cape Peninsula taking in all the highlights and breath-taking beauty of this world-renowned region. Travel through historic suburbs, charming fishing villages and awesome viewpoints on your way to Cape Point, where the mighty Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The tour begins with a scenic drive along the Atlantic coast which is home to some of the most expensive real estate in the country. Pass through the fishing village of Hout Bay. Here you will take a cruise to Seal Island to see the large colonies of Cape Fur Seals sunning themselves on the island’s rocky outcrops. The tour then heads along Chapman’s Peak Drive. With a towering mountain above it and a sheer drop below, this part of the road is renowned for its spectacular 180° views of the Cape Peninsula making it a favoured spot for photographers. Our journey now reaches the tip of the Cape Peninsula, a dramatic view point located in an 17,750 hectare nature reserve. Looking out over the shining sea from the Cape Point Lighthouse truly makes you feel like you are standing at the edge of the world. The rich diversity of the nature reserve, part of the Table Mountain National Park, makes it home to a stunning array of animal and plant species. Visitors can encounter buck, baboons, Cape Mountain Zebra and over 250 species of birds. The reserve is also one of the largest breeding grounds for tortoises in the world. After a stop for lunch at Seaforth Restaurant in the picturesque naval base village of Simon’s town, we head to Boulders Beach where you can sit among a colony of African penguins. Return to your hotel in the late afternoon and spend the evening at leisure.

23 SEPT | FULL DAY CAPE PENINSULA TOUR (BL)

What is the best feature of the Cape Winelands? It’s true that it is renowned for its crisp white and classic French-style red wines, fantastic cheeses and olives; but it also has a stunning wealth of natural rustic beauty with vast estates shaded from the African sunshine by giant oak trees and towering mountains overlooking lush valleys. On this full day tour we will visit and explore the Cape Winelands’ principal route. We will see the

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famous and renowned towns of Paarl, Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. A cheese tasting is included at the Fairview Wine estate in Paarl. Sample some amazing chocolates at Hugenots Chocolates in Franschhoek and delicious olives and oils produced at Morgenster Estate in Somerset West. We visit and tour the cellars of two prestigious wine estates and explore the quaint university town of Stellenbosch. Look forward to a day filled with fine wines, great food and beautiful scenery. Lunch is included at one of the beautiful wine estates.

24 SEPT | FLY CAPE TOWN TO HOEDSPRUIT (BD)Transfer to the airport for your direct flight from Cape Town to Hoedspruit. (flight is not included in our costs). On arrival at Hoedspruit airport, you will be met and transferred to Motswari Safari lodge.

Motswari Game Lodge offers luxury safari accommodation in 15 elegant bungalows in the heart of the Timbavati Private Reserve. Each bungalow boasts scenic views over the African bush. The bungalows are fully air-conditioned and feature overhead fans, en-suite bathrooms. The interiors boast natural hues, while mosquito nets are draped over the comfortable beds add to the romantic ambiance of the rooms. The main lodge features a spacious lounge and bar area with comfortable chairs, the ideal place to relax and discuss the day’s sightings. Meals can be served in the traditional boma (outdoor enclosure) or in the reception area. Additional features include a well stocked library and art gallery showcasing unique South African art. ACCOMMODATION: Motswari main

camp, Bungalows (3 Nights).

25 – 26 SEPT | ON SAFARI AT MOTSWARI (BLD)

This lodge is ideal for guests wishing to experience the tranquility, relaxation and amazing wildlife of the Timbavati Private Reserve in South Africa. Look forward to exciting game drives in open vehicles at sunrise or in the late afternoon. This is an ideal way to try and spot the Big Five (Lion, Leopard, Rhino, Buffalo and Elephant) and some of Timbavati’s wildlife.Enjoy sundowners during the afternoon/evening game drive, and watch the sun set over the African bush. Night drives allow you to see some of the nocturnal African wildlife such as Hyena and Leopard. Adventure seekers can participate in guided bush walks, which are ideal for learning more about the region and spotting some of the 350 different bird species.

The Reserve is completely untouched and home to such a variety of wildlife that each and every day presents new and exciting interactions in an environment where all levels of the ecosystem fight for their survival in an environment where generally the rule is eat or be eaten. What can you expect when going out on safari is more than you can ever imagine. Regardless of how many Animal Planet or National Geographic scenes you may have watched or even if you have travelled to some of the remotest areas on this planet, namely Alaska or Antarctica, you will not find a more natural and vibrant wildlife experience.. Our guides are expertly trained to not only provide you with an encyclopedia of information on all aspects of the ecology but are also well versed in being incredible hosts, passionate about making sure you highest expectations are met.

The safaris take place either in the morning or late afternoon moving into the early evening. The reason for this is that it is when the wildlife is most active due to the temperatures being the most moderate. It is also important to note that this area does not get affected by a migration of species which means that the game viewing is consistently good all year round and the only change in seasons is really to the surrounding landscape and daily temperatures.

27 SEPT | FLY KRUGER TO LIVINGSTONE & SUNSET CRUISE (B)

Transfer to the airport for your flight from Kruger Mpumalanga airport to Livingstone (Note based on current 2015 schedules, this flight operates daily except Thu/Sun. Note only one flight a day and this service gets booked out months in advance – flight is not included in our costs). On arrival in Livingstone, you will be met by our local representative and transferred to your resort located on the shores of the Zambezi River. David Livingstone explored this land of potent beauty and discovered one of the seven natural wonders of the world. In his footprints, only moments away from the mighty Zambezi River with the dramatic torrent of the Victoria Falls as its natural milieu, a magnificent Resort has been created as a testament to his discovery and in reverence to the splendor of this World Heritage site.

In the fading twilight hours enjoy a sunset cruise aboard the Lady Livingstone. The Sunset Cruise which takes 2 good romantic hours of enjoying the spectacular view of the sunset while hearing the gentle sound of the Zambezi River and enjoying a drink or two with some fine snacks (included in the cruise). This is a great time to hear the sound of a Hippo or from time to time, see elephants as they cross the river or feed on one of the islands in the river.

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About your resort: On the forested banks of the great Zambezi River, upstream of the mighty cataract where it thunders into the Batoka Gorge, is The Royal Livingstone, pride of Zambian hospitality. In its cool lounges and shaded verandahs, you will encounter the elegance and luxury of an earlier, more courteous age. The Royal Livingstone is a serene and gracious refuge from the heat of the African sun. The 173 luxurious rooms with their comfortable furnishings are tastefully decorated in the soft earth tones of the bushveld, with spreading views of the river and Acacia forest. Guests may pass lazy days on the magnificent sun deck overlooking the Zambezi as it flows relentlessly to the Falls, and enjoy fine dining in the restaurant or on the long verandah overlooking the gardens. In the warm smile of your personal butler, or in the simple luxury of a cane chair, you will find an Africa that has all but vanished.ACCOMMODATION: Royal Livingstone Resort, Luxury rooms (2 Nights)

28 SEPT | GUIDED TOUR OF VICTORIA FALLS(B)

This morning enjoy a guided tour of The Falls. The local people, the Leyas, called the falls “Shungu Namutitima” which means, “Smoke that thunders”. The Kolos called it “Mosi-oa-Tunya.” The Falls are 1,700 meters wide with a vertical drop of 100 meters. The volume of water cascading into the chasm at the height of the rainy season is nine million liters a second. There is a paved path leading onto the Knife-Edge Bridge for a spectacular view up the main gorge and the Eastern Cataract. One can also take a walk down to the Boiling Pot through the rain forest, where steps lead down to the previous fall line to the bank whirlpool, where Zambezi sweeps from the foot of the falls into the stretch of the Batoka Gorge. This view gives an interesting perspective from the base of the falls and of the impressive Victoria Falls Bridge above the gorge.

This excursion is followed by a visit to Simonga village located about 20km outside of Livingstone. Simonga has learned some important lessons from other neighboring communities, and is one of only a handful of villages that has truly embraced tourism as an opportunity for increasing the quality of life for their people. Traditionally, villages in the region were not interested in welcoming visitors to their homes, believing that tourists would bring bad fortune, and the photos they took would steal their souls. Simonga’s village elders, however, saw the region’s growth in tourism as a way to bring great benefits to its community, and with the help of the local resorts and its guests, the community has thrived in

relation to its neighbours. Walk through the village, meet the children and visit the school and gain a little bit of insight in the life of a small Zambian village.

29 SEPT | ABOARD THE ZAMBEZI QUEEN (BLD)

Travel by road from Livingstone to the Kazungula border crossing. Here we take a small ferry to cross the Zambezi River into Botswana. After going through customs and immigration, proceed to Kasane and the boarding point for your cruise.

There can be few natural wonders as synonymous with Africa’s raw wilderness as the great Chobe River. These waters divide Namibia’s Caprivi Strip from Botswana’s Chobe National Park, and its exotic banks boast one of the densest populations of wildlife on the African continent. Teeming with life, this National Park sprawls across some 11 000 m of lush African bush, and is home to the largest population of elephants in the world (currently estimated at roughly 120,000). Along with the elephants, leopards and lions, huge groups of buffalo, waterbuck, roan, eland, sable, giraffe, and, if you are lucky, one of the rare puku, can also be seen. In the river itself watch out for hippo and crocodile, and keep your binoculars at the ready for spotting a rich selection of bird life.

It is on this great expanse of untamed water an adventure unlike any other awaits. Why join the crowds on land-based game drives when you can experience the thrill of it all from your own private suite aboard a luxury 45 meter boat? The Zambezi Queen is all about pampering, indulgence, and superior comfort.

Whether you are dining on our third level restaurant watching the animals gather at the water at dusk, game viewing from one of our private boats, or attempting to land your first tiger fish, our professional team will be on hand to meet your every need.

Relax into your cruising schedule for the next few days:4.30 pm – Sunset cruise

7.00 pm – Official Welcome and Safety Briefing 7.30 pm – Dinner on-board Zambezi Queen

10.00 pm – Generator shuts down for a quiet African night

About your cabins & vessel: The lower and middle decks of the boat incorporate 14 cabins - all of which have their own private balconies and have been tastefully furnished with either a double or two single beds. Of the 14 suites, 4 are master suites, some with their own private outdoor areas. These master suites are all larger than the 10 standard suites. Each private space was designed with the African summer in mind, and clever use of shutters situated on the outer edge of the deck and air conditioning ensures a cool experience even during times of the year when external temperatures soar. The top deck is air-conditioned and consists of the dining room, the lounge, a bar and a sunbathing area complete with private pool. Also to be found in the living area is a library of books, numerous games and a telescope for studying the stars at night. The Dining room us situated on the 3rd level with unobstructed views on three sides, our guests will dine in absolute opulence whilst taking in the unique African surrounds. Included in your stay is a full English breakfast in the morning, buffet lunch and formal dining in the evening. All the kitchen staff are locally trained Namibians, with the head chef ’s being from Zimbabwe. The bar contains both local and imported spirits, wine and beers. ACCOMMODATION: Zambezi Queen, Standard suites (3 Nights)

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30 SEPT | CRUISING THE CHOBE RIVER (BLD)

6:00 am Generator starts up 7:30 am Breakfast in Dining Room 8:45 am Depart for Chobe National Park 4 x 4 game drive (passport required) or do a river safari (no passport required) 1:00 pm Zambezi Queen sails the Chobe River 1:30 pm Lunch in dining room 4:00 pm Depart on small boat for water based game viewing. 7:00 pm Traditional African boma dinner on the shore of the Chobe River including African singing and dancing, followed by star gazing. 10:00 pm Generator shuts down

01 OCT | CRUISING THE CHOBE RIVER (BLD)

6:00 am Generator starts up 7:00 am Breakfast in Dining Room 8:00 am Tour in traditional African village including a short Mokoro ride (African canoe) or depart on small boat for water based game viewing. 12:00 pm Lunch on the main vessel. 2:00 pm Zambezi Queen sails the Chobe River 4:30 pm Choice of tiger fishing, game viewing or bird watching by small boat. 7:30 pm Dinner aboard the Zambezi Queen 10:00 pm Generator shuts down

NOTE: The above is a general outline. Sailing is subject to weather and water conditions and is at the discretion of the Captain.

02 OCT | DEPART KASANE FOR HOME (B, INFLIGHT MEALS)

6:00 am Generator starts up 7:30 am Breakfast in Dining Room 9:00 am Departure for onward travel

Transfer to the airport for your flight to Johannesburg. On arrival in Johannesburg, connect to your evening flight back to New York. Overnight onboard the aircraft.

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INCLUSIONS IN PRICES:

• Meet & Greet guide on arrival in Cape Town

• Arrival and departure airport transfers by private 21 seater coach

• 4 Nights luxury room accommodation at The Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town on a twin share Bed & Breakfast basis

• Half Day private coach charter for Cape Town city tour including Table Mountain gondola tickets

• Welcome dinner at Gold Restaurant with private coach transfers

• Full day private coach charter for Winelands tour including cheese tasting at Fairview Estate, chocolate tasting at Huguenot Chocolates, olive tasting at Morgenster, cellar tour and two wine tastings and lunch at a wine estate (alcohol not included)

• Full day private coach charter for Cape Peninsula Tour including a Seal Island cruise, funicular ticket to Cape Point, lunch at Seaforth Restaurant in Simon’s town, entry to Boulders Beach to see the penguins.

• Fully qualified English speaking guide on transfers and daytours while in Cape Town. (Guide will not accompany group to Kruger as they will be looked after by the safari rangers).

• All Cape Town touring and transfers are by private luxury, air-conditioned 21 seater coach with driver + guide.

• Arrival transfer at Hoedspruit airport to Motswari Main Camp

• 3 Nights accommodation at Motswari Main Camp on a twin share basis: Package includes full board accommodation and two game drives a day, including refreshments, local beers, house wines and soft drinks (excluding bottled water & energy drinks).

• Departure transfer from Motswari Main Camp to Kruger International airport

• Meet & Greet on arrival in Livingstone

• Private airport transfer from Livingstone airport to the resort

• 2 Nights accommodation at the Royal Livingstone Resort on a twin share bed & breakfast basis

• Afternoon sundowner cruise on the Zambezi River – includes drinks and snacks

• Guided tour of Victoria Falls and Simonga Village

• Private road transfer & ferry crossing from Livingstone (Zambia) to Kasane (Botswana)

• 4 Day/3 Night cruise aboard the Zambezi Queen includes: all meals, all soft drinks/mineral water/tea & coffee/local wine and beer, water-based game viewing and bird watching on tender boats, a land-based cultural tour of a local village, tiger & bream fishing in season, road and boat transfers between Kasane and the Zambezi Queen.

• Transfer from Zambezi Queen to Kasane airport

• Local taxes on accommodation and sightseeing tours including all VAT taxes

• Meals as indicated on itinerary (B-breakfast, L-lunch, D-dinner)

• Goway travel bags and neck pillows

EXCLUSIONS IN LAND ONLY PRICES:

• All International and domestic/internal Africa airfares

• All departure taxes and fuel surcharges

• Personal items

• Meals unless listed in the itinerary

• Tip & Gratuities

• Early check-in & late check out of rooms (standard check in time is 2pm & check out at 10am)

• Travel insurance

• Visa and passport handling fees

(604) 985 7447 Ι 1 (888) 392 7447110 West Esplanade, North Vancouver, BC

www.cruiseshipcenters.com/NorthVancouver

*All prices are per person in Canadian dollars and based on double occupancy for the first and second passengers only, on specific room categories and are subject to availability at time of booking. Additional restrictions may apply. Contact your Expedia CruiseShipCenters Vacation Consultant for full terms and conditions. BC Reg #: 25615/6