The Essence of Southern Africa is a 13-day, 12-night small-group luxury journey from Cape Town to Livingstone, showcasing the best of South Africa and Zambia. The tour combines cosmopolitan city life in Cape Town, the scenic vineyards of Stellenbosch, and thrilling Big Five safari experiences in Kruger National Park. It concludes at one of the world’s greatest natural wonders, Victoria Falls, where guests enjoy exclusive access and luxury experiences along the Zambezi River. This itinerary blends wildlife, culture, history, and iconic landscapes with premium accommodation and curated Signature Experiences.
Itinerary
Itinerary Summary
The Essence of Southern Africa is a 13-day luxury journey from Cape Town to Livingstone, combining city exploration, wine country relaxation, Big Five safari adventures, and one of the world’s greatest natural wonders—Victoria Falls.
The tour begins in Cape Town, where travellers experience iconic highlights such as Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, and historic cultural sites. It then moves into the Cape Winelands (Stellenbosch) for a slower-paced stay surrounded by vineyards, heritage, and local cuisine.
From there, the journey continues to Kruger National Park, where guests enjoy immersive safari experiences, including game drives and bush dinners in a private Big Five reserve.
The itinerary then transitions to Livingstone, Zambia, home of the spectacular Victoria Falls, where travellers enjoy sunset cruises on the Zambezi River, guided falls tours, and luxury experiences such as a helicopter flight and steam train dining.
Overall, the trip blends urban culture, scenic wine regions, world-class safari experiences, and iconic natural wonders into one seamless luxury African journey.
Day
Destination
Arrival
Departure
Arrive Cape Town (South Africa)Arrive in Cape Town and transfer to your luxury hotel. Enjoy a welcome dinner with your fellow travellers.
Cape TownExplore Cape Town’s highlights including Table Mountain, District Six Museum, and the historic Castle of Good Hope.
Cape PeninsulaScenic journey along Chapman’s Peak Drive to Cape Point, with a stop at Boulders Beach to see the penguins.
Cape Town to StellenboschEnjoy flexible sightseeing options before travelling to the famous Cape Winelands region of Stellenbosch.
StellenboschDiscover Stellenbosch on a guided walking tour featuring Cape Dutch architecture, history, and local food tasting.
Stellenbosch to Kruger National ParkFly to Kruger and arrive at your private safari lodge in a Big Five game reserve.
Kruger National ParkExperience morning and afternoon game drives, spotting elephants, lions, and other iconic wildlife. End the day with a traditional boma dinner.
Kruger National ParkOptional bushwalk and additional safari drives to explore the African bush and wildlife up close.
Kruger to JohannesburgEnjoy a final safari drive before flying to Johannesburg for an overnight stay.
Johannesburg to Livingstone (Zambia)Fly to Zambia and visit Victoria Falls, followed by a sunset cruise on the Zambezi River.
LivingstoneChoose from cultural visits, walking safaris, or a guided tour of Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwe side.
LivingstoneEnjoy a helicopter flight over Victoria Falls and a luxury steam train dinner experience overlooking the gorge.
Depart LivingstoneRelaxed morning before transferring to the airport for your onward journey home.
Departures & Rates
13 Days / 12 Nights
Route: Cape Town → Livingstone
Travel Style: Small Group Tour
Departure Dates & Rates
11 August – 23 August 2026
From AUD 19,495 per person
Special Offer: AUD 16,995 per person
25 August – 06 September 2026
From AUD 19,495 per person
Special Offer: AUD 16,995 per person
Rate Includes
- Luxury accommodation throughout the tour
- Internal flights within Africa as per itinerary
- Sightseeing and guided touring
- Game drives in Kruger National Park
- Victoria Falls experiences
- Meals as specified in the itinerary
- Services of an APT Tour Director and local guides
- Transfers, porterage, and gratuities
*Rates are subject to availability and seasonality and may change without notice. Rates are based on two adults sharing. For solo travellers or single person occupancy rates or further information on terms and conditions, please contact our Travel Specialists at time of booking.
Accommodation
- Belmond Mount Nelson Hotel
A historic luxury hotel in Cape Town known for its colonial charm, iconic pink façade, and prime location near Table Mountain. -
- Lanzerac Hotel
A luxury wine estate hotel in the Cape Winelands offering Cape Dutch architecture, vineyards, and a peaceful countryside setting. 
- Kapama River Lodge
A high-end safari lodge inside a private game reserve, offering Big Five wildlife experiences and luxury bush accommodation. 
- Peermont D’oreale Grande
A five-star hotel near Johannesburg Airport featuring elegant interiors and a comfortable overnight transit stay. 
- Royal Livingstone Hotel
A riverside luxury hotel on the Zambezi River with direct access to Victoria Falls and a classic colonial-style atmosphere.
