Versatile Eastern Cape

ABOUT THIS TRIP

The malaria-free Eastern Cape offers exciting opportunities for exploration off the beaten tourist path. In Tsitsikamma National Park, you’ll discover dense forests home to the oldest trees in the country, as well as rugged cliffs. The Karoo semi-desert offers spectacular landscapes and historic sites. In Addo Elephant Park and an adjacent private game reserve, you’ll encounter the Big Five and many other African wildlife species. On the Wild Coast, endless beaches and typical Eastern Cape bush landscapes await you.

You don't want to drive yourself, but a small group tour doesn't have the right start date for you and a privately guided tour is too expensive? Then our English-speaking chauffeur-driven tours are just the right alternative. Your private chauffeur will take you from place to place, where you will then take part in guided day activities and excursions. However, you do not have the all-round support of a continuous tour guide. All chauffeur-driven tours can start daily and can be adapted to your wishes in advance. The more people take part in your own chauffeur-driven tour, the lower the price per person.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 1x St. Francis Bay
• 2x Tsitsikamma
• 2x Graaff-Reinet
• 2x Addo
• 2x Greater Addo
• 2x Chintsa

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 11x overnight stay in the Superior Plus category ****/*****
• 11 breakfasts, 4 lunches, 6 dinners
• private transfers according to program
• Graaff-Reinet History Walk and Valley of Desolation Sundowner Tour
• four game drives in Addo Elephant Park
• four game drives in the private Big Five Kariega Game Reserve
• Access to the airport lounge on the day of departure
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Flight performance
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Continuous tour guide

DAY 1: PORT ELIZABETH

ONE-WAY TRANSFER TO ST. FRANCIS BAY

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 1 TO DAY 2:

ST. FRANCIS BAY

St. Francis Bay is a fantastically beautiful and sun-kissed vacation resort in the Eastern Cape, just under an hour's drive from the Tsitsikamma in the west and Port Elizabeth in the east. The thatched roofs throughout and the architecture of the harbor district, which is reminiscent of the Mediterranean, make you forget for a moment which country you are in. The white sandy beach is ideal for swimming and water sports. The Cape St. Francis Nature Reserve is a wonderful place to hike through the fynbos vegetation. The Seal Point lighthouse at the southern tip of the small peninsula is striking.

The luxurious The Sands Beach House is located directly on the beach and offers a breathtaking view of the Indian Ocean. All the amenities of the small village are within walking distance. The five upscale suites all have a shower/WC with separate whirlpool bath, air conditioning, telephone, TV, minibar, tea/coffee maker, safe and a terrace with uninterrupted sea views. The Upper Level Luxury Room is also the hotel's honeymoon suite with its own Jacuzzi on the terrace. The boutique guesthouse offers two pools, a panoramic terrace, a restaurant, free Wi-Fi and in-room spa treatments for a fee.

THE SANDS (UPPER LEVEL LUXURY ROOM)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 2: ST. FRANCIS BAY

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO TSITSIKAMMA

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 2 TO DAY 4:

TSITSIKAMMA

The Tsitsikamma National Park is the largest contiguous forest area in South Africa and is ideal for hiking or relaxing. The hiking trails always offer fantastic views of the dense forests and the endless sea. At the Storms River Restcamp in the eastern part of the park, you can take short boat trips on the river of the same name. The famous Suspension Bridge, a suspension bridge over the river, is also located here. Various long hiking trails start directly at the camp. The western part, the Natures Valley, also offers beautiful nature and the best hiking opportunities. With a bit of luck, you can even spot whales (seasonal) and dolphins from land.

You will spend the night at The Fernery Lodge in a private nature reserve just east of the Storms River. From the lodge you have a breathtaking view over the Indian Ocean, the gorge of the Sanddrift River and the dense forests. There are seven lodge rooms in the main building and 13 detached chalets set slightly apart, all of which have en-suite bathrooms, a TV, minibar and tea/coffee making facilities. The Premier Suite has a fireplace and a deck with sea views. The Premier Rooms have a deck overlooking the gorge or the sea. The Lodge Rooms have a veranda with access to the garden. The Chalets have a veranda with barbecue facilities and a lounge area with kitchenette and fireplace. In addition to the double bed, the Family Chalets have two single beds for children under the age of 16. The twin units have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC and private plunge pool on the veranda. The accommodation offers a lounge area, a bar, a restaurant, a pool, a jacuzzi, a sauna and free Wi-Fi. Various hiking trails start right outside the door. Mountain bikes can be rented for a fee.

THE FERNERY LODGE & SPA (PREMIUM SUITE OCEAN VIEW)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 3: TSITSIKAMMA

STORMS RIVER FULL DAY GUIDED HIKE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 140 € PER PERSON

This easy and relaxed hike takes you through the forests and unique fynbos vegetation of the Tsitsikamma National Park to the Suspension Bridge, a suspension bridge over the spectacular Storms River estuary. From here you have the option to cross the bridge and reach the viewing platform on the opposite side, from where you can enjoy spectacular views over this incredible coastline.

The tour language is English. The hike is carried out with other people. The approximately 15 km long route is considered easy, an appropriate level of fitness and appropriate clothing and sturdy shoes are required. Drinking water and a light lunch will be provided. If the hike is canceled due to weather conditions, you will be reimbursed by us after your trip.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 4: TSITSIKAMMA

ONE-WAY TRANSFER TO GRAAFF-REINET

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 4 TO DAY 6:

GRAAFF-REINET

Graaff-Reinet is one of South Africa’s oldest towns and is considered the jewel of the Karoo semi-desert. Thanks to its many buildings in the Cape Dutch architectural style, a visit to the town feels like a stroll through a living museum. No other South African town has as many listed buildings as Graaff-Reinet. In the center stands the imposing Groot Kerk, the “Great Church,” modeled after Salisbury Cathedral in the UK. The town is almost entirely surrounded by Camdeboo National Park, which offers hiking and wildlife viewing opportunities and whose highlight is the bizarre rock formation of the “Valley of Desolation”—especially at sunset.

Located in the heart of Graff-Reinet, this charming boutique hotel captivates guests with its successful blend of Cape Dutch-Victorian and traditional Karoo architecture. The building complex dates back to 1786 and has been extensively renovated. There are a total of 48 rooms and three pools, spread throughout the spacious gardens. All rooms feature a bathroom/toilet, air conditioning, a minibar, a TV, a tea/coffee station, a safe, and free Wi-Fi. The Bachelor Rooms are approximately 20 square meters in size. The Standard Rooms are approximately 30 square meters in size and also include a desk. The Executive Rooms and Suites are up to 60 square meters in size and additionally feature a desk and a lounge area with seating. The hotel features three pools, a fitness center, a spa area (for a fee), a restaurant, a bar, an outdoor terrace, a wine shop, and an art gallery.

DROSTDY HOTEL (SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 5: GRAAFF-REINET

GRAAFF-REINET HIGHLIGHTS COMBO

You’ll set out on a guided afternoon tour through the architectural gem of the Karoo. You’ll visit landmarks and monuments such as the Reinet House, the Drostdy, the Dutch Reformed Church, and the Graaff-Reinet Club, where bullet holes in the bar counter reveal a fascinating past.

The tour then continues just outside the city gates to the Valley of Desolation, where a spectacular sunset awaits you. Experience this unforgettably beautiful geological formation, featuring spectacular 120-meter-high columns of ancient, eroded volcanic rock that tower over the endless, parched plains of Camdeboo. You’ll also enjoy a panoramic view of Graaff-Reinet. Wildlife you’re likely to see on this tour includes Cape mountain zebras and various species of antelope.

The tour language for both activities is English. The activities together last about five to six hours and can be done with other people. Admission fees and sundowner snacks are included in the tour price. You will be picked up at your accommodation and dropped off there afterward.

DAY 6: GRAAFF-REINET

One-way transfer to Kuzuko

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 6 TO DAY 8:

ADDO

Your destination is a private concession area that borders directly on the north-western Darling Section of the state-owned Addo Elephant Park. Like the Addo, the approximately 14,000-hectare concession area is also malaria-free and is home to the Big Five as well as many other African wild animals, including giraffes, which are not found in the Addo. Only overnight guests have access to this area, which guarantees undisturbed and very personal animal sightings.

You will stay at the luxurious Kuzuko Lodge, which is the only lodge in the entire concession area. The lodge is situated on a hilltop with spectacular views of the reserve. The 24 detached chalets feature a bathroom with toilet, a tea/coffee maker, air conditioning, a minibar, a safe, a TV, a veranda with a view, and free Wi-Fi. The lodge features an observation deck, a pool, a bar, a restaurant, a fitness room, a spa area (for a fee), a birdwatching shelter, and a boma (traditional dining area around a campfire). The drive to the lodge follows a 40-kilometer gravel road; a mid-size SUV is recommended.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

KUZUKO LODGE (LUXURY CHALET)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 8: ADDO

ONEWAY TRANSFER KUZUKO TO GREATER ADDO

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 8 TO DAY 10:

GREATER ADDO

The private Kariega Game Reserve is located about an hour's drive east of Port Elizabeth in the beautiful Eastern Cape bush landscape between Bushmans River and Kariega River. The malaria-free reserve covers almost 12,000 hectares and is home to the Big Five - elephants, lions, buffalo, rhinos and leopards - as well as many other African wild animals. In contrast to the state national parks, only overnight guests have access to the private reserves. These are therefore much better suited to a short stay for unique animal sightings. The small lodges also offer a very personal atmosphere. Specially trained rangers ensure a first-class nature experience.

Ukhozi Lodge embodies the true romance and intimacy of Africa. With its hidden location in the bush, it offers its guests a lot of privacy and a unique panoramic view of a valley. The ten luxurious detached chalet suites have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, minibar, safe, telephone and a veranda with a view and private plunge pool. The lodge offers a restaurant, a bar, a viewing deck, a boma (traditional campfire dining area) and a pool with sun deck.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

KARIEGA GAME RESERVE UKHOZI LODGE (LUXURY SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 10: GREATER ADDO

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO CHINTSA

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 10 TO DAY 12:

CHINTSA

Just half an hour north of East London lies the small village of Chintsa, a paradise nestled in the beautiful countryside at the southern beginning and end of the Wild Coast. Here you can slow down wonderfully in this pristine piece of Africa. Let yourself be enchanted by the dreamlike landscape, the evergreen nature and the endless sandy beaches.

Prana Lodge is the jewel in Chintsa's crown and the most luxurious accommodation on the Wild Coast. The exclusive lodge with its own spa area is situated on a private forest property with its own beach access. All eight suites offer a great deal of privacy and have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a TV, a minibar, a safe, a fireplace and a private forest garden with veranda and private plunge pool (Forest Suite does not have its own plunge pool). The suites are about 90sqm in size. The Diamond Suite is approximately 120 square meters in size and also offers a view of the sea. The Beach House is ideal for a private group and has four bedrooms, a private pool and direct sea views. The lodge offers a lounge, a restaurant, a bar, a spa area (for a fee), a large garden, a terrace, a pool and free Wi-Fi.

PRANA LODGE (DIAMOND SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 12: CHINTSA

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO EAST LONDON

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar). For long-distance transfers, toilet and catering stops are made as required (catering not included in the price).

DAY 12: EAST LONDON

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LOUNGE

As an SA Travel customer, you are something very special and enjoy the comfort that otherwise only Business or First Class travelers can enjoy. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle at the airport on the day of departure and keep your vacation relaxation going for as long as possible.

You will have access to the airport lounge at your international departure airport in Johannesburg, Cape Town or Durban. The lounge offers free drinks, snacks, newspapers, TV, WiFi and washing and shower facilities (facilities may vary depending on the lounge). You can use the lounge at the earliest four hours before your departure. Please note that lounge capacity is limited, especially at smaller airports, and access cannot always be guaranteed or there may be waiting times at the entrance.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking and are based on the number of participants stated. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights.

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

This trip is malaria free.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs about 5 EUR (small salad, soup) to 8 EUR (pizza, pasta, burger) per person; dinner costs about 10 EUR (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to over 12 EUR (steak, fish) up to 22 EUR (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer, or soft drinks cost about 1.70 EUR per cup or glass. Prices may vary up or down depending on the region or type of restaurant.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.