South Africa
South Africa practically bowls visitors over with its abundance of natural splendor, exotic wildlife, cosmopolitan flair, and friendly faces — and this luxury tour brings it all to you like never before!
No expense was spared in creating this absolutely iconic, once-in-a-lifetime itinerary – including a safari in Kruger National Park, a wine day in the vineyards of Stellenbosch, three days in dazzling Cape Town, and a swim in legendary Victoria Falls. By the end of our time together, you'll understand what makes this part of the world so extraordinary, and with memories that you're sure to treasure for years to come!
This is truly a colorful kaleidoscope experience of a lifetime, made even more unique when shared with like-minded Dames. Join us!
Please Note: The deposit for this trip is $2,000.
$7,999.00
August 17-27, 2024
Per person based on double occupancy. Solo Rooms available.
Book NowCall Us 888-505-DAME
Picture Yourself
- Seeing the Big 5 on a luxury Safari
- Swimming in Devil's Pool on the edge of Victoria Falls
- Exploring colorful, exciting Cape Town
- Sipping wine with female winemakers in the Stellenbosh region
- Discovering the complex history of South Africa on a female-led township tour
Day by Day
Day 1: Arrival in Johannesburg
Welcome to South Africa!
After your arrival at OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg), you'll take a short walk to the hotel, located within the airport building.
As flights typically arrive in the later afternoon/ early evening, there is nothing on the agenda today other than arriving and getting settled into your hotel for some much-needed rest!
Meals: -
Hotel: City Lodge Hotel, OR Tambo
Day 2: Fly to Zambia + Victoria Falls
Situated along the southern border of Zambia, Victoria Falls is a spectacular sight of awe-inspiring beauty and grandeur on the Zambezi River. It forms the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and stretches across almost two kilometers into a gorge over one hundred meters below - making it one of the world’s widest waterfalls. Dubbed ‘The Smoke that Thunders’ by locals, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is a popular tourist destination for those visiting Zambia. It is world-renowned for its sheer beauty and offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in spectacular landscapes inhabited by abundant wildlife.
After breakfast this morning we will fly to Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport [LVI]. Upon arrival we will transfer from Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport [LVI] to The Royal Livingstone Victoria Falls Zambia Hotel by Anantara.
This property is the first in its class in this area and simply cannot be beaten.
Downtime this afternoon to shop or relax before dinner.
Meals: B, D
Hotel: Royal Livingstone by Anantara
Day 3: Victoria Falls
After breakfast today we will depart for Victoria Falls, one of the most famous natural landmarks in all of Africa (aside from Mount Kilimanjaro).
This incredible natural wonder is formed by the Zambezi River as it crashes into a 345-feet deep precipice on the Zambia-Zimbabwe border.
In the morning, we'll have a tour of the falls, followed by some free time. If you’re looking for a breathtakingly immersive experience, you may want to consider an activity like bungee, gorge-swing, or heli-flip!
After a day of exploring, we'll enjoy a sunset river cruise and then have dinner together.
Meals: B, D
Hotel: Royal Livingstone by Anantara
Day 4: Fly to Cape Town
Today we're departing to Cape Town, the Mother City.
After breakfast, you'll be taken to Victoria Falls Airport for your flight to Cape Town. After arrival at Cape Town International Airport, you'll be transferred to the hotel.
Spend the afternoon meandering about the waterfront just outside your door, have a rest, or book a treatment/massage to curb the long flight.
Dinner will be nearby on the VA Waterfront.
Meals: B, D
Hotel: The Table Bay Hotel
Day 5: Winelands tour
Today you will spend the day in the Historic Cape Winelands!
After breakfast, we will depart at 9am for our ILIOS Cape Winelands tour. This delightful drive winds its way to the heart of the Cape Winelands, through superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads. The region boasts great beauty, culture and is steeped in South African history. With the sheer vastness of wine estates on offer, we are truly spoilt for choice.
The day includes 2 wine tastings per person + a wine cellar tour.
Afterwards, we'll sing our way back to the hotel. The evening and dinner are at your leisure.
Meals: B, L
Hotel: The Table Bay Hotel
Day 6: Free Day in Cape Town
Today is your day to get into whatever your heart desires!
Cape Town is magical, and this trip has been pretty packed, so today is your day to chill.
Set at the confluence of the Indian and Atlantic oceans and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling city of Cape Town presents an alluring combination of drawcards. Incredible powdery white beaches, highly acclaimed wine routes, and astonishingly beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub. This diverse metropolis is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and a spectacular, chic waterfront harbor.
Highlights include the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art; Table Mountain's jaw-dropping views; Boulders Beach, where penguins might swim right up to you in the warm Indian ocean waters; the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens, where you can walk along a treetop canopy among incredible native flora or watch an open-air concert at the base of the mountain; Robben Island, where visitors can see the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years; and many more.
Meals: B
Hotel: The Table Bay Hotel
Day 7: Boulders Beach Penguins
After breakfast, we’re off on our private tour to Cape Point, where we’ll get to see the penguins at Boulders Beach!Â
The route is weather-dependent, but we’ll plan to start off at Muizenberg, a spot known for its colorful beach huts and surfing spots. Next, we’ll head to the charming fishing village of Kalk Bay and enjoy a stroll along the harbor, poke around the quirky shops, or grab a coffee at one of the local seaside cafes. We’ll continue on through Simons Town to see the historical naval base and wander the picturesque streets.
Next stop is Boulders Beach! See the famous African penguins in their natural habitat, walk along the boardwalks to observe these charming creatures up close, and take in the beautiful scenery all around. It’s going to be so much fun!
Afterwards, we’ll stop for a delicious seafood lunch and a side of stunning ocean views at the Black Marlin Restaurant.
Our day isn’t over yet! Next we’ll drive to Cape Point in the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, and snap a few selfies and group shots at the southwesternmost point of Africa!
On our return to Cape Town, we’ll be taking the scenic route. We’ll make a stop to feed some cute ostriches, and then enjoy breathtaking coastal views at Chapman’s Peak, Hout Bay, and Camps Bay before getting back to the hotel to rest.
Dinner on your own at the waterfront.
Meals: B, L
Hotel: The Table Bay Hotel
Day 8: Fly to Kruger National Park
This morning we're departing from Cape Town to Kruger Mpumalnga Airport, your gateway to Kruger National Park.
Upon arrival, we will transfer to the Thorny Bush Game Lodge for check-in.
The Thornybush Game Reserve lies near the border with Mozambique, in the beautiful Limpopo Province. Boasting over 12,000 hectares of pristine wilderness, this stunning protected area is characterized by open savannah, woodlands, and shrublands. The park is home to an array of African wildlife, including all of the mighty Big Five (lion, leopard, rhinoceros, elephant, and Cape buffalo) - as well as giraffe, mongoose, zebra, and the rare and endangered Pangolin. Thornybush is also inhabited by over 500 bird species and offers several bird-focused walks and drives.
Our first Game Drive will start around 4 p.m. and our experienced guides will share all the sights and sounds of the bush with you. As the sun sets your drive will continue with the guides using searchlights to show you those elusive nocturnal animals.
Meals: B, L, D
Hotel: Thorny Bush Game Lodge
Day 9: Safari
Early in the morning when the sun is creeping over the horizon and a cacophony of bird calls herald a new day, enjoy a rusk & coffee before embarking on your first Game Drive of the Day.
After, come back and relax before our afternoon game drive that begins around 4 p.m. and into the evening. From the echoing call of the Monotonous Lark to the infectious greeting of a pack of Wild Dogs reuniting after a hunt, you will see and hear things that only a safari in the African bush can deliver.
Being a Private Game Reserve, our rangers can take you off-road for close-up sightings.
Meals: B, L, D
Hotel: Thorny Bush Game Lodge
Day 10: Safari
You never know what a safari will bring you! Today you'll have a morning and afternoon drive to get out and see what animals are out and about. There's nothing quite like an African bush safari and this experience will delight you!
Meals: B, L, D
Hotel: Thorny Bush Game Lodge
Day 11: Return to Johannesburg, Departures
This morning we will transfer to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport and board a flight returning us to Johannesburg, and this tour officially concludes at the Johannesburg airport.
We're always bummed on departure day, but we saw and did so much! Please ensure your international flight leaves after 12 noon today.Â
After our trip, we will set up a group chat to keep in touch, share photos, and continue to grow these awesome friendships we formed.
Meals: B
Hotel: --
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Trip Length
11 days/ 10 nights
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Activity Level
Moderate
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Perfect For
Bucket Lists
South Africa
South Africa
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Spaces on tours are sold per person. Deposits are non-refundable. Ensure your payment option is as desired before checkout. If paying deposit only, remaining payments can be made via client portal until 60 days before departure. See our cancellation policy for details.
Love this tour but can’t make the dates? Click here to make this tour private.
Includes
- All internal flights throughout South Africa
- Accommodation (shared or solo, in a variety of luxury properties)
- 3 days of exciting safari experiences
- English-speaking local guides throughout
- Private driver and van
- Entrance fees to attractions
- Meals listed on itinerary
- Gratuity for Damesly leader
Excludes
- International flights
- Travel insurance
- Meals not listed
- Gratuities
Meet Your Trip Leader
Timathea Workman
Timathea has traveled extensively around the globe leading tours to study everything from classic art in Europe to Grey whales in Baja, trekking through the Moroccan Sahara by camel to watch the sun rise over the red sand dunes, hiking across blue glaciers in Antarctica between penguin rookeries, visiting...
Read MoreAdditional Information
Flights: You'll fly in and out of Johannesburg Airport (JNB). Arrive anytime on Day 1 arrival day, and depart after 12 noon on departure day.
Want us to advise on flights? Email us at info@damesly.com
Weather: August marks the end of winter in South Africa. Expect warm days (70s-80s F) + cold nights (40s-50s).
Packing: Sun protection (hat/sunscreen/sunglasses), close-toed, comfortable walking shoes, and loose/comfortable clothing for long car rides are a must for this trip. Additionally you’ll want a small backpack for personal items and a scarf for modest dressing.Â
For entry into South Africa, you'll need:
- Passport (valid for 6+ months)
- Travel Insurance*
*Note: We require proof of travel insurance for all international departures.
At Damesly, our goal is to connect women through beautifully curated travel experiences.Â
Our trips feature a high level of customer support and a focus on cultural interaction and experiences. We’re dames who work hard, and travel often. So when you use your coveted PTO days, we want you to have the best trip possible! To do this, we hand-select boutique hotels based on location and service. We look for unique properties that we think of as hidden gems, which may or may not be 5-stars. Our itineraries offer a mix of adventure and relaxation. We’re not afraid to get a little dirty to have the most fun experiences, but if there’s an infinity pool or a great spa afterwards — we’ll meet you there!
Traveling the world comes with rewards and challenges. Our traveler is someone who is easy-going and open minded to new experiences and cultures, ready to get out of their comfort zone and understands that travel leads to personal growth, even on its toughest days. Join us if you’re adventurous, kind, open-minded and ready for the trip of a lifetime.Â
On our South Africa tour, you can expect incredible views and safari experiences up near Kruger National Park and beautiful lodge experiences with top notch service. This tour covers a large amount of ground via a series of internal flights, and is made for the dame who wants to leave this tour feeling like they've truly experienced South Africa. However, this is still Africa (TIA). Power may go in and out, flights may be delayed and itinerary may be subject to change. Please come with an understanding of your surroundings and an appreciation for cultures different from your own.
Will you match me?
Of course! If you choose a space in a shared room but you're traveling solo, we will do our best to pair you with a roommate. Roommates are matched based on arrival time and perceived compatibility. Sharing a room is a great way to save costs, and make a new friend! However, we ask you to approach the situation with an open mind, some grace, and maybe a little humor.
While 99% our travelers are amazing, we can't guarantee that you'll hit it off with your roommate, or that your sleeping styles will be compatible.
Is sharing right for you?
If you are a light sleeper, get easily irritated or just know that you need your own space, sharing a room might not be for you. Likewise, if you know that you snore, sleep with a CPAP machine or have other health conditions, sharing a room might not be the best fit.
What if I don't get along with my roommate?
If you've tried but you absolutely can't get along with your roommate and need to separate, your trip leader will either swap things around, or, attempt to get you your own room. If the latter, additional charges will incur.
What if I book a double room, and you can't match me?
We book a certain amount of hotel rooms before any tour, and are bound by their rules. In the event that we cannot find a roommate for you before the tour, and your room converts to a single room, there may be additional charges.
Small group trips require at least 4 people to run. We will confirm as soon as possible when the trip has met its minimum; up to 60 days before departure. For this reason, we recommend waiting until after a trip has been confirmed to purchase airfare. Any tour can be converted to a private departure when a trip does not meet its minimum. Additional costs may incur. Alternatively, apply your credit to any small-group tour departing within 12 months.Â
When you book a tour with us, our team will create a customer portal for you, where you can make payments towards this tour at your leisure.Â
If you’d prefer, we can create a payment schedule for you, just let our accounting team know (accounting@damesly.com) Tours must be paid in full 60 days before departure.Â
This tour to South Africa must be paid in full by June 18, 2024. See our cancellation policy here.
Still have questions? See our FAQ or Contact Us.
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