PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • INTERNATIONAL & INTERNAL FLIGHTS
  • WELCOME & TRANSFERS
  • ACCOMMODATIONS & 16 MEALS
  • BIG 5 VIEWING SAFARIS
  • SEMI-PRIVATE TOUR (MAXIMUM 8 PEOPLE)
STARTING AT:
CAD $ 7,498 *
PER PERSON/TAXES INCL
CLICK HERE TO MAKE A REQUEST

Reviews for Magnificent South Africa

 4.7 out of 5
Based on 30 customer reviews
5.0

November 20, 2024

Everything was "top notch".7 in first group to Durban and 3 of us from Port Elizabeth.Hotels all very good,especially the one near Durban. Highly recommend!

4.1

November 11, 2024

5.0

October 31, 2024

This trip was absolutely perfect in every detail, as were other wingbuddy trips we have taken. We are amazed that all contacts at airports hotels and excursions are flawless. We shall continue to travel with wingbuddy in future trips. Wingbuddy has enhanced our senior years tremendously, encouraging us to travel when we might otherwise have been daunted by all the research and bookings and flights required. All of this is covered by wingbuddy at a very low cost, a single payment that we could not match no matter our facility with Expedia or other booking means. You are stuck with us in the future, many trips we hope. Thanks, Robert and Carla ... Read More

4.6

October 28, 2024

4.9

October 27, 2024

5.0

October 8, 2024

4.7

October 8, 2024

This trip was at the top of our bucket list. The trip far exceeded what we hoped for. We cannot believe what we were able to see. And we had a blast doing it.

4.0

October 7, 2024

4.6

October 1, 2024

4.9

September 23, 2024

4.9

September 23, 2024

4.6

September 17, 2024

5.0

September 9, 2024

5.0

September 9, 2024

Perfect in every way. Thank you!

4.5

July 29, 2024

We had a great trip. Guides and itinerary were excellent.

4.0

July 29, 2024

4.9

June 26, 2024

4.0

June 17, 2024

4.5

June 17, 2024

5.0

April 15, 2024

This was an incredible trip! We loved every second of it, nothing felt like an add-on item at all, it was all worthwhile. We will recommending this trip to everyone!

4.7

April 1, 2024

4.8

February 12, 2024

4.6

February 12, 2024

5.0

November 13, 2023

Loved every minute of our stay in South Africa and I didn’t know what to expect from this beautiful country. I will definitely go back one of these days. Doing a tour was the best way for us , we saw a lot of South Africa .... Read More

5.0

November 13, 2023

Absolutely exceeded my expectations! A very thorough tour of South Africa, with more activities than I even imagined! Thank you for fulfilling one of my bucket list destinations!

4.3

September 29, 2023

5.0

August 28, 2023

Keep doing business with them. We enjoyed every minute of our tour.

4.6

May 11, 2023

4.6

December 13, 2022

4.0

December 1, 2022

High demand. We recommend booking at your earliest convenience to secure best rate and availability.

Experience the extraordinary diversity of South Africa on this wonderful semi-private, 14-day organized package including international flights, internal flight, airport transfers, transportation in deluxe vehicles, accommodation in 3 & 4* hotels and lodges, 16 meals included, fascinating Kruger Park, iSimangaliso and ocean safaris with accredited rangers and other visits with English-speaking local guides including Panorama Route, Garden Route and more!

Dates & Prices Itinerary Accommodation Accommodation Inclusions/Exclusions Inclusions Map FAQ
January 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Jan 03 Fri Jan 17 $12,998/person
Departure
Fri Jan 03
Return
Fri Jan 17
$12,998/person

Fri Jan 31 Fri Feb 14 $7,898/person
Departure
Fri Jan 31
Return
Fri Feb 14
$7,898/person

February 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Feb 28 Fri Mar 14 $8,898/person
Departure
Fri Feb 28
Return
Fri Mar 14
$8,898/person

March 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Mar 14 Fri Mar 28 $8,298/person
Departure
Fri Mar 14
Return
Fri Mar 28
$8,298/person

April 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Apr 25 Fri May 09 $7,998/person
Departure
Fri Apr 25
Return
Fri May 09
$7,998/person

May 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri May 09 Fri May 23 $7,998/person
Departure
Fri May 09
Return
Fri May 23
$7,998/person

Fri May 23 Fri Jun 06 $8,498/person
Departure
Fri May 23
Return
Fri Jun 06
$8,498/person

June 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Jun 06 Fri Jun 20 $8,498/person
Departure
Fri Jun 06
Return
Fri Jun 20
$8,498/person

Fri Jun 20 Fri Jul 04 $8,598/person
Departure
Fri Jun 20
Return
Fri Jul 04
$8,598/person

July 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Jul 18 Fri Aug 01 $9,198/person
Departure
Fri Jul 18
Return
Fri Aug 01
$9,198/person

August 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Aug 15 Fri Aug 29 $8,498/person
Departure
Fri Aug 15
Return
Fri Aug 29
$8,498/person

September 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Sep 12 Fri Sep 26 $8,298/person
Departure
Fri Sep 12
Return
Fri Sep 26
$8,298/person

Fri Sep 26 Fri Oct 10 $8,498/person
Departure
Fri Sep 26
Return
Fri Oct 10
$8,498/person

October 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Oct 10 Fri Oct 24 $8,398/person
Departure
Fri Oct 10
Return
Fri Oct 24
$8,398/person

Fri Oct 24 Fri Nov 07 $7,998/person
Departure
Fri Oct 24
Return
Fri Nov 07
$7,998/person

November 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Nov 07 Fri Nov 21 $8,698/person
Departure
Fri Nov 07
Return
Fri Nov 21
$8,698/person

December 2025
Departure Date Return Date Starting rate    
Fri Dec 05 Fri Dec 19 $8,798/person
Departure
Fri Dec 05
Return
Fri Dec 19
$8,798/person

*The advertised starting rate is available from Toronto on Feb 2025
**All prices are subject to change without notice

MAGNIFICENT SOUTH AFRICA

12 NIGHTS / 14 DAYS
  • Day 1: Canada - Johannesburg (South Africa)Flight with a good itinerary.
  • Day 2: Johannesburg

    Upon your arrival at the airport, you will be greeted by our local representative and transferred to your hotel in Johannesburg, the largest city in South Africa. The rest of the day is free to relax in your hotel's facilities.

  • Day 3: Johannesburg - Dullstroom - Makalali Game Reserve

    After breakfast at the hotel, you will travel east to the province of Limpopo via Dullstroom. You will stop for lunch (not included) en route and arrive at a private game reserve to enjoy a guided, open-vehicle game drive. Look out for the great animals of Africa, and try to catch a glimpse of lions, African elephants, Cape buffalo, African leopards, or black rhinoceroses, among many others. At sunset, treat yourself to some snacks and drinks in the middle of the African savannah, carefully prepared by your guide - an experience like no other. In the evening, return to your lodge, located in the heart of Makalali Game Reserve, and enjoy the view over the plains. (Breakfast-Dinner)

  • Day 4: Makalali Game Reserve - Panorama Route - HazyviewExperience an early morning start in the bushveld on a guided, open vehicle game drive. You will enjoy coffee and rusks in the bush before returning to the lodge for breakfast.

    After lunch, continue toward one of South Africa’s most magnificent attractions on the Panorama Route: the Three Rondavels and Blyde River Canyon, considered the world's largest green canyon. The Panorama Route affords guests memorable views of the most significant sites in this mountainous area, including God’s Window, a breathtaking vantage point offering panoramic views of verdant cliffs and tropical forests, and Bourkes Luck Potholes, spectacular geological formations created by river erosion. Lunch (not included) along this scenic route. Your day will end in Hazyview, a charming farming town renowned for its banana and macadamia nut plantations. Dinner and overnight at your hotel. (Breakfast-Dinner) 

  • Day 5: Hazyview - Kruger National Park (South Africa) - Eswatini (former Swaziland)

    Early breakfast at the hotel before heading toward Mpumalanga's flagship attraction, Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves, covering almost 20,000 square kilometers. Kruger National Park became South Africa's first national park in 1926. A closed vehicle game drive will allow you to take in the park and view the 'Big 5' and other fauna and flora: you'll have the chance to observe over 700 animal and 1900 plant species!

    Following lunch (not included) en route, you will drive via the Jeppes Reef border post the Kingdom of Eswatini, formerly Swaziland, a small landlocked country between South Africa and Mozambique, renowned for its traditional craftsmanship. Arrival at the hotel later in the afternoon. Dinner and overnight in the capital's region. (Breakfast-Dinner)

  • Day 6: Eswatini - St Lucia (South Africa)

    Following breakfast, you will visit the Swazi Candle Factory and Crafts Market, the ideal place to pick up authentic souvenirs to take home. You will then exit Eswatini at Lavumisa border post and enter South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal province in an area colloquially referred to as the Elephant Coast. In the late afternoon, you will arrive at your hotel in St-Lucia and have the opportunity to freshen up. The town is a paradise for nature lovers, thanks to its wonderful beaches, estuaries, forests, and sand dunes. Overnight in St-Lucia. (Breakfast)

  • Day 7: St Lucia - Umhlanga

    Before breakfast, you will embark on an open safari vehicle and enjoy a game drive through South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a colloquial reference roughly translated as 'miracle and wonder'. Later, enjoy an eco-friendly boat cruise on the estuary, where you'll have the opportunity to observe hippos, crocodiles, and a plethora of bird species in their natural habitat. Enjoy lunch (not included) with a stunning view of the lake before departing for Umhlanga, a vibrant beach city just outside of Durban. Spend the night in the comfort of your hotel in Umhlanga. (Breakfast)

  • Day 8: Umhlanga - Durban - Port Elizabeth

    Enjoy your breakfast at the hotel and take the morning off for a pleasant stroll along the magnificent sandy beach of Umhlanga, famous for its turquoise waters and panoramic views of the Indian Ocean.

    At the time arranged with your tour leader, you will be transferred from the hotel to King Shaka International Airport for a flight to Port Elizabeth. Greetings and transfer to your hotel. The evening is free for you to relax or discover your surroundings. (Breakfast)  

  • Day 9: Port Elizabeth - Tsitsikamma Forest - Knysna

    After breakfast, you will head west to Knysna via Storms River and the Tsitsikamma Forest in the heart of the "Garden Route," home to bird species you won't see anywhere else. You will then stop at Storms River to enjoy a short walk to the very famous suspension bridge to take in the views. 

    Enjoy lunch (not included) in the Tsitsikamma Forest area, home to century-old trees, then continue on to the picturesque town of Knysna, renowned for its lagoon. Upon arrival, you will board the informative Knysna oyster cruise to sample oysters and enjoy a sundowner. (Breakfast) 

  • Day 10: Knysna - Plettenberg Bay - Knysna

    After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, and depending on weather conditions, you'll head to Lookout Beach for a sea excursion dedicated to the observation and conservation of marine mammals. This marine safari will not only allow you to admire whales, dolphins, and seals up close, but also to learn more about their marine habitat and conservation efforts to protect them. Back on land after this adventure, you'll have free time for lunch (not included) while soaking up the natural beauty of the area.

    In the afternoon, you will take a guided tour of the Qolweni Township, school, and crèche. Like many townships in South Africa, Qolweni has a complex history marked by the socio-economic challenges inherited from the apartheid era. However, they are also vibrant places where culture, community, and resilience are at the heart of daily life. This is a development program: allocated tour proceeds fund the education of Qolweni’s children. You are invited to donate pencils, books, and other stationery. After the scenic drive back to Knysna, spend the afternoon at leisure to explore the village of Knysna. (Breakfast) 

  • Day 11: Knysna - Oudtshoorn

    After breakfast, you'll head for Oudtshoorn via the Outeniqua Pass. Oudtshoorn is the main town in the Klein Karoo, a semi-arid desert bordered by rugged mountain ranges. Lunch (not included) on a farm in the Cango Valley. You'll visit an olive plantation, including a tasting accompanied by Protea rosé or a good fruit juice. The day continues with a visit to the Cango Caves, a network of limestone caves famous for their spectacular stalactite and stalagmite formations dating back millions of years. Overnight in Oudtshoorn. (Breakfast-Dinner)  

  • Day 12: Oudtshoorn - Cape Town

    After enjoying breakfast at the hotel, head off to an ostrich farm for a highly entertaining guided tractor tour. Surprising as it may seem, Oudtshoorn is South Africa's ostrich capital! On this tour, you'll learn about the historical and economic impact of ostrich farming in the region and see these fascinating birds up close. You could even try standing on an egg and see for yourself: It doesn’t break! After the tour, you'll head off along the picturesque Route 62, also known as the Wine Route, where you'll have the opportunity to enjoy a wine tasting (not included) at one of the region's many renowned vineyards while taking in the breathtaking scenery of the Tradouw Valley. Lunch (not included) en route. You'll arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon, where you can relax before spending the night in Cape Town. (Breakfast) 

  • Day 13: Cape Town

    After breakfast, you will join a guided full-day Cape Point tour. You'll set off along the Atlantic coast via Chapman's Peak, a famous scenic coastal road, to discover the Cape Peninsula and Cape Point, the most south-westerly point of the peninsula, well known for its impressive cliffs. You'll visit the Cape Point Nature Reserve, where you can see the Boulders penguin colony (not included), coastal villages, and the famous Rhodes Memorial. Evening and overnight in Cape Town. (Breakfast)

  • Day 14: Cape Town - Canada

    After enjoying a final breakfast at your hotel, take some free time before joining the transfer to the airport for your flight home, carrying with you memories of a remarkable journey. (Breakfast)

    -End of services-

    * Important: Be sure to contact your travel health professional to find out if you need any special vaccinations or medications for your trip at least six weeks before you leave.

MAGNIFICENT SOUTH AFRICA

Experience a comfortable stay in our Classic Hotels, carefully chosen for their value, convenient locations, and proximity to major attractions. Relax in well-maintained rooms with thoughtful amenities, savor a variety of breakfast choices, and benefit from attentive service to enhance your travel experience.

  • • 1 night in Johannesburg at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Balalaika 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 1 night in Hoedspruit at the Makalali Main Lodge 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 1 night in Hazyview at the Casa do Sol Hotel & Resort 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 1 night in Eswatini at the Mantenga Lodge 3* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 1 night in St Lucia at the Forest Lodge 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 1 night in Umhlanga at the Capital Pearls 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 1 night in Port Elizabeth at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Marine 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 2 nights in Knysna at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Knysna Quays 3.5* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 1 night in Oudtshoorn at the Surval Boutique Olive Estate 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room
  • • 2 nights in Cape Town at the SunSquare Cape Town City Bowl Hotel 4* hotel (or similar) in a standard room

INCLUDES

  • International flights between Canada / Johannesburg and Cape Town / Canada with good itineraries
  • Internal flight between Durban and Port Elizabeth
  • Greetings and transfers by AC vehicles in Johannesburg, Durban, Port Elizabeth, and Cape Town
  • 12 nights hotel accommodations
  • All breakfasts + 4 dinners (16 meals)
  • Transportation by AC vehicles during the tour
  • English-speaking local guides during the tour
  • All visits and entrance fees as per itinerary
  • 2-day open-vehicle game drives with accredited English-speaking nature tour guides as per itinerary

  • 1 game drive in Kruger National Park in a closed vehicle

  • 1 game drive in iSimangaliso Wetland Park with accredited English-speaking nature tour guides as per itinerary
  • St Lucia Estuary boat cruise
  • Sunset Knysna oyster cruise
  • Ocean safari
  • All taxes and fees and OPC

EXCLUDES

  • Travel insurance
  • Tips: Guides, drivers and hotel staff
  • Meals and beverages unless otherwise mentioned
  • Personal expenses and optional activities
tour map

Is there a minimum age to book this tour?

Every passenger must be at least 7 years old to participate in this tour.

How much of a deposit is required?

You need to make a 50% deposit upon reservation to secure your seats. If your departure is in less than 60 days, the full amount is due when booking.

When is the balance due?

The balance is due 60 days prior to the departure date.

Is it a guaranteed departure?

Yes, all our departures are guaranteed.

What is the group size?

This is a semi-private package: our groups are 8 people maximum. This is the best way to take full advantage of the tours and the guide's explanations. 

Is triple occupancy available?

For this package, triple occupancy is on request, unless the 3rd passenger is a child aged between 2 and 11 years old (at the time of traveling). We will check price and availability upon reservation.

Is single occupancy available ?

Yes, you can book a single room for this tour, offering you comfort and privacy in your own space. Please note that single rooms are thoughtfully designed to offer a cozy and comfortable stay, typically featuring a single bed and a space slightly smaller than a standard double room.

Will there be someone waiting for us at the airport?

Yes, our local operators will welcome you at the gate holding a sign with your name on it. You will be transfered to the hotel.

Are the hotels far from the city?

In Johannesburg and Cape Town, the hotels are centrally located which means that whether you walk or use local transportation, you will be able to reach the city within 30 minutes.

Are tips included?

If you are happy with your guides and the services you receive, we suggest tipping your guide $8 CAD / $6 USD per day per person. At restaurants, a tip of 15% is standard but do check with your waiter as some restaurants add a standard service charge to the bill.

Tipping is always at your discretion, feel free to tip the other local staff who make your stay enjoyable.

What is the average cost of a meal?

All your breakfasts are already included as well 4 dinners. The cost of a meal should be about $16 CAD / $12 USD per person.

Is it possible to add extras nights?

Yes, you may add extra nights to your package. However, for this tour, we can add nights only in Johannesburg before or in Cape Townn after the tour. Simply make the request with your reservation agent who will change your flights accordingly. We can include the same hotels or you may stay under your own arrangements. The price will be confirmed by your agent depending on availability.

Is the bus equipped with toilets, AC, Wi-fi?

The van is air-conditioned. The tour makes frequent rest stops to allow you to go to the bathroom. Wi-Fi is not available on board.

Other useful information:

Currency: South African Rand.

Visa: For US and Canadian residents, no visa is required. Your passport must contain at least 2 empty visa pages.

Language: Mainly Afrikaans and English (there are 11 official languages in South Africa).

Vaccines: Make sure your routines vaccines are up to date. Check with your travel clinic if you need vaccination for Hepatitis A and B and typhoid and yellow fevers among others.

FAQ

Is there a minimum age to book this tour?

Every passenger must be at least 7 years old to participate in this tour.

How much of a deposit is required?

You need to make a 50% deposit upon reservation to secure your seats. If your departure is in less than 60 days, the full amount is due when booking.

When is the balance due?

The balance is due 60 days prior to the departure date.

Is it a guaranteed departure?

Yes, all our departures are guaranteed.

What is the group size?

This is a semi-private package: our groups are 8 people maximum. This is the best way to take full advantage of the tours and the guide's explanations. 

Is triple occupancy available?

For this package, triple occupancy is on request, unless the 3rd passenger is a child aged between 2 and 11 years old (at the time of traveling). We will check price and availability upon reservation.

Is single occupancy available ?

Yes, you can book a single room for this tour, offering you comfort and privacy in your own space. Please note that single rooms are thoughtfully designed to offer a cozy and comfortable stay, typically featuring a single bed and a space slightly smaller than a standard double room.

Will there be someone waiting for us at the airport?

Yes, our local operators will welcome you at the gate holding a sign with your name on it. You will be transfered to the hotel.

Are the hotels far from the city?

In Johannesburg and Cape Town, the hotels are centrally located which means that whether you walk or use local transportation, you will be able to reach the city within 30 minutes.

Are tips included?

If you are happy with your guides and the services you receive, we suggest tipping your guide $8 CAD / $6 USD per day per person. At restaurants, a tip of 15% is standard but do check with your waiter as some restaurants add a standard service charge to the bill.

Tipping is always at your discretion, feel free to tip the other local staff who make your stay enjoyable.

What is the average cost of a meal?

All your breakfasts are already included as well 4 dinners. The cost of a meal should be about $16 CAD / $12 USD per person.

Is it possible to add extras nights?

Yes, you may add extra nights to your package. However, for this tour, we can add nights only in Johannesburg before or in Cape Townn after the tour. Simply make the request with your reservation agent who will change your flights accordingly. We can include the same hotels or you may stay under your own arrangements. The price will be confirmed by your agent depending on availability.

Is the bus equipped with toilets, AC, Wi-fi?

The van is air-conditioned. The tour makes frequent rest stops to allow you to go to the bathroom. Wi-Fi is not available on board.

Other useful information:

Currency: South African Rand.

Visa: For US and Canadian residents, no visa is required. Your passport must contain at least 2 empty visa pages.

Language: Mainly Afrikaans and English (there are 11 official languages in South Africa).

Vaccines: Make sure your routines vaccines are up to date. Check with your travel clinic if you need vaccination for Hepatitis A and B and typhoid and yellow fevers among others.

Reviews for Magnificent South Africa

 4.7 out of 5
Based on 30 customer reviews
5.0

November 20, 2024

Everything was "top notch".7 in first group to Durban and 3 of us from Port Elizabeth.Hotels all very good,especially the one near Durban. Highly recommend!

4.1

November 11, 2024

5.0

October 31, 2024

This trip was absolutely perfect in every detail, as were other wingbuddy trips we have taken. We are amazed that all contacts at airports hotels and excursions are flawless. We shall continue to travel with wingbuddy in future trips. Wingbuddy has enhanced our senior years tremendously, encouraging us to travel when we might otherwise have been daunted by all the research and bookings and flights required. All of this is covered by wingbuddy at a very low cost, a single payment that we could not match no matter our facility with Expedia or other booking means. You are stuck with us in the future, many trips we hope. Thanks, Robert and Carla ... Read More

4.6

October 28, 2024

4.9

October 27, 2024

5.0

October 8, 2024

4.7

October 8, 2024

This trip was at the top of our bucket list. The trip far exceeded what we hoped for. We cannot believe what we were able to see. And we had a blast doing it.

4.0

October 7, 2024

4.6

October 1, 2024

4.9

September 23, 2024

4.9

September 23, 2024

4.6

September 17, 2024

5.0

September 9, 2024

5.0

September 9, 2024

Perfect in every way. Thank you!

4.5

July 29, 2024

We had a great trip. Guides and itinerary were excellent.

4.0

July 29, 2024

4.9

June 26, 2024

4.0

June 17, 2024

4.5

June 17, 2024

5.0

April 15, 2024

This was an incredible trip! We loved every second of it, nothing felt like an add-on item at all, it was all worthwhile. We will recommending this trip to everyone!

4.7

April 1, 2024

4.8

February 12, 2024

4.6

February 12, 2024

5.0

November 13, 2023

Loved every minute of our stay in South Africa and I didn’t know what to expect from this beautiful country. I will definitely go back one of these days. Doing a tour was the best way for us , we saw a lot of South Africa .... Read More

5.0

November 13, 2023

Absolutely exceeded my expectations! A very thorough tour of South Africa, with more activities than I even imagined! Thank you for fulfilling one of my bucket list destinations!

4.3

September 29, 2023

5.0

August 28, 2023

Keep doing business with them. We enjoyed every minute of our tour.

4.6

May 11, 2023

4.6

December 13, 2022

4.0

December 1, 2022

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