Contrasts of Africa

Upon arrival in Cape Town, we'll greet you and transfer you to your hotel, affectionately known by locals and regulars as Mount Nellie. Situated at the foot of Table Mountain, and within walking distance of Company's Garden, this exquisitely restored colonial hotel was painted its distinctive shade of pink in 1918.

This evening, meet your fellow travelling companions and Tour Director at a welcome reception. Stay Three Nights: Cape Town, Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel

After breakfast, head out to discover the charms of Cape Town. Erected by Dutch colonialists from 1666 to 1679, make a stop at the Castle of Good Hope for a guided tour of this historic pentagonal fortress, the oldest existing building in South Africa. Visit District Six Museum and immerse yourself in its enlightening exhibitions, gaining insights into the culture and poignant history of Cape Town and South Africa during the Apartheid era.

Afterwards, board the aerial cableway to ascend to the top of Table Mountain, where panoramic vistas of the city and its surroundings await. Tonight, savour Cape Town's delectable cuisine at a local restaurant. (B/D)

After breakfast this morning, you'll embark on a breathtaking journey along the spectacular coastal Chapman's Peak Drive toward Cape Point. En route, soak in glorious South African beach scenery, catch glimpses of quaint villages and stop at the southernmost tip of Africa, Cape Point, before continuing to Simon's Town for a delightful lunch. Nearby lies Boulders Beach, home to a vivacious colony of penguins. Enjoy observing these fascinating creatures before returning to your hotel. (B/L)

• Perhaps venture to the historic Robben Island and learn about the prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated from 1964 to 1982, and life on the island. Or discover the Victoria & Alfred (V&A) Waterfront with a visit to Zeitz MOCAA, the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world. Alternatively, take part in a Heritage Tour, where you will discover the colourful neighbourhood of Bo-Kaap, known for its multiculturalism.

• Today, you'll explore historic Stellenbosch. Admire its beautiful Cape Dutch architecture and learn about the colonial history of the area. Experience the town's storied past, remarkable culture and inspiring artwork on a walking tour, before tasting traditional South African dishes such as savoury Bobotie and sweet Amarula mousse.

Fly to Kruger today and transfer to your private lodge, nestled within 15,000 hectares of Kruger National Park. Your home for the next three nights offers ample opportunities to seek out the local inhabitants. With around 40 different mammal species, including the Big Five (the lion, leopard, black rhinoceros, African bush elephant and African buffalo), along with over 300 bird species, there is an abundance of wildlife.

This evening, unwind with a round of sundowners as you bask in a breathtaking African sunset, followed by a sumptuous dinner. Stay Three Nights: Kruger National Park, Kapama River Lodge or similar (B/D)

• Rise early for a morning game drive, which presents the perfect opportunity to spot animals such as giraffes, birdlife and the Little Five (elephant shrew, ant lion, rhinoceros beetle, buffalo weaver and leopard tortoise) roaming in the wild.
• This evening, indulge in a culturally rich boma dinner under the stars. Soak in the unique atmosphere of open-air candlelit dining in the heart of the African bush. Savour traditional dishes including kebabs, steak and a variety of salads and bread accompanied by authentic song and dance.

This morning, you may like to join your experienced guides for an enthralling bushwalk. Immerse yourself in the wild and unspoiled landscape as you are taught how to look out for animal tracks and learn about some of the local fauna used for numerous medicinal purposes. Your day rounds out with another exhilarating game viewing experience from the comfort of a 4WD vehicle, followed by a sundown toast to all the incredible sights you have encountered through your day. (B/L/D)

Today, after a final morning game drive, board a flight to Johannesburg, where you will stay overnight in preparation for our flight to Livingstone tomorrow morning. Stay: Johannesburg, Peermont D'Oreale Grande (B/D)

Fly to Livingstone and relish ample time to explore your hotel, while enjoying the company of free-roaming zebras. Your hotel boasts unrivalled direct access to Victoria Falls from dawn till dusk. In the late afternoon, embark on a stunning sunset cruise along the Zambezi River. Savour sundowners and canapes served against the backdrop of a magnificent African sunset. Stay Three Nights: Royal Livingstone Hotel (B)

• Take an included helicopter flight and witness a spectacular aerial view of thundering Victoria Falls from above.

• You might like to embark on an informative Cultural Tour to a local village, followed by a visit to the vibrant Maramba Market. Or enjoy a game drive in the Mosi-oa-Tunya National Park, which runs alongside the Zambezi River. Alternatively, tour the Zimbabwean side of the Falls for a different perspective and indulge in an included lunch.

• Step aboard the luxurious Royal Livingstone Express steam train for a five-course gourmet dinner amid breathtaking views of the Falls and surrounding scenery. Once the train reaches the Victoria Falls Bridge, you will be invited to step off to watch the brilliant scenery as the sun sets behind the phenomenal Falls.

After a leisurely morning before a light lunch, transfer to the airport for your onward flight to Nairobi. Upon arrival, you will meet your East African Tour Director and begin your exciting journey through East Africa. Stay: Nairobi, Villa Rosa Kempinski (B/L)

Take a flight via Kilimanjaro to Lake Manyara in Tanzania, where you will travel by 4WD vehicles to your beautiful lodge. Enjoy time at leisure to unwind and soak in the tranquil surroundings before a delicious dinner. Stay Three Nights: Ngorongoro, Acacia Farm Lodge (B/L/D)

Today, at the Crater, you will stop for a picnic lunch, giving you time to take in the landscape. Often referred to as “Africa's Garden of Eden” and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of Africa, the Crater's high walls provide a natural enclosure to vast numbers of wildebeest, zebras, gazelles and lions, so make sure you have your camera ready to capture the abundant wildlife. (B/L/D)

• Today, you will be given the opportunity to visit a local school at the village of Mto Wa Mbu. Through our OneTomorrow Charitable Fund, APT assists Kilimatembo School with regular donations so it can continue to provide local children with the education they deserve.
• Walk through a traditional village and learn about daily life - from how the Maasai construct their dwellings, to local bush food and medicines, and the culture of the Maasai.

• At Olduvai Gorge, also known as the “Cradle of Mankind”, enjoy a fascinating private tour in which you will see some of the earliest evidence of our first human ancestors who existed in the area over one million years ago.

Embark on a game drive at sunrise, where you'll encounter an awe-inspiring array of animals, which may include wildebeest, impala and African buffalo. Return to your luxurious lodge for some well-earned relaxation time, soaking up the stunning views and perhaps taking a refreshing dip in the infinity pool while basking in the African sun.

Later, witness the savannah come alive on an incredible sunset game drive and watch in wonder as the unique animals prepare for nightfall. Finish the day in style with a delectable dinner. (B/L/D)

On your third day in this remarkable national park, take the opportunity to spot any animals that you may have missed on the game drives yesterday. Glimpse a myriad of smaller creatures including an abundance of birdlife and fascinating insects. (B/L/D)

Board a light aircraft for your scenic flight to the expansive Masai Mara, a vast and stunning wilderness that's home to a diverse array of wildlife and breathtaking vistas. Upon arrival, embark on an off-road journey through the savannah on your first game drive, where you can seize the chance to encounter rare animals, such as serval and honey badger.

Afterwards, retire to your luxurious tented retreat, complete with a large comfortable bed, Persian rugs, cosy armchairs and a private en suite with solar-heated water. Stay Three Nights: Masai Mara, Karen Blixen Camp (B/L/D)

Wake to the enchanting symphony of the African bush as you prepare to head out on a thrilling morning game drive through the private Mara North Conservancy. Afterward, spend the early afternoon relaxing at the camp, perhaps watching resident hippos in the Mara River from your deck. As mid-afternoon approaches, take advantage of the perfect time for wildlife watching, giving you the chance to continue ticking species off your spotting list as the sun sets and the temperature begins to cool. (B/L/D)

• Travel a short distance from your camp to a lantern-lit bush kitchen, where talented chefs will expertly prepare a delectable dinner featuring local specialties. As you savour your flavourful dinner, listen to the backdrop of enchanting noises of the African bush, adding to the incredible ambience of the meal.

• At the day's end, enjoy an exclusive private performance by the talented Kenyan Boys Choir, accompanied by a farewell toast to commemorate the amazing experiences of these past few weeks.

After breakfast, your journey concludes. Say goodbye before you are transferred to the airport for your onward flight. (B)