The Private Great Africa Escape 11 Days, Cape Town to Chobe

Traveling through Africa often feels like stepping into a living, breathing postcard—vivid landscapes, extraordinary wildlife, and vibrant cultures. This 11-day private tour promises a curated journey from the colorful streets of Cape Town to the wildlife-rich waters of Chobe, with iconic stops in between. While I haven’t experienced it firsthand, this well-crafted itinerary seems tailored for travelers seeking a mix of city sophistication, natural wonder, and unforgettable safaris.

Three things that immediately catch our eye: the luxury accommodations at every stop, the chance to see the “Big Five” during guided safaris, and the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls. On the flip side, a potential consideration is the pace; with many flights and busy days, it might be best suited for active travelers comfortable with a packed schedule. This tour appears perfect for those who want a comprehensive, high-end African experience with expert guides leading the way.

Key Points

• Luxury Accommodation: Stay in 5-star lodges and hotels throughout the journey
• Wildlife Encounters: Multiple game drives aimed at spotting lions, elephants, rhinos, and more
• Cultural & Natural Highlights: From Cape Town’s cityscape to Victoria Falls’ thunder
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable guides enhance every part of the experience
• Variety of Activities: City tours, safaris, boat cruises, and scenic drives
• Value for the Price: All major activities, flights, and accommodations included

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Itinerary

Starting in Cape Town: A City of Contrasts

The trip kicks off in Cape Town, one of Africa’s most photogenic cities, renowned for its stunning landscapes and dynamic culture. Guests stay at the award-winning Table Bay Hotel, a five-star property right on the waterfront with sea-facing rooms offering spectacular views. This location is ideal for exploring the city’s surroundings.

Day 2 involves the classic Cape of Good Hope tour, which takes you along the rugged coastline to see Cape Point, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. Expect to see penguins at Boulders Beach and cruise along Chapman’s Peak, known for its dramatic cliffs and breathtaking vistas. Many reviews highlight that guides make these trips both informative and fun—one guest noted, “Our guide was incredibly knowledgeable and had stories that kept us entertained the entire day.”

Day 3 is dedicated to exploring Table Mountain, either through a guided tour or a cable car ride, offering panoramic views of the city and coast. The day ends with a broader Cape Town city tour, highlighting local history, culture, and architecture. This combination of scenic beauty and cultural insights makes for a well-rounded introduction to South Africa.

Transition to Safari: From City to Wilderness

On Day 5, after a quick morning flight from Cape Town to Skukuza Airport, you’ll arrive at the Becks Luxury Safari Lodge in Karongwe Private Reserve. The lodge’s suites promise a blend of comfort and immersion—think plush linens and private decks overlooking the bush. Guests rave about the personalized safari experience: “Our guide knew exactly where to find the lions, and his passion was obvious.”

The game drives here are a highlight, with morning and afternoon safaris in open Land Rovers. The focus on spotting the “Big Five”—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—means chances are good for seeing some of Africa’s most iconic animals up close. Reviewers mention the knowledgeable guides as a major plus, with one noting, “Our guide, Sipho, was a walking encyclopedia—he made every sighting special.”

From the Bush to the Falls: Victoria Falls

After your safari experience, you’ll fly from Kruger to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. The A’zambezi River Lodge offers deluxe rooms with views of the river, providing a peaceful base to explore this natural wonder. The afternoon includes a sunset river cruise, which is often described as a magical way to relax while watching elephants and hippos along the riverbank.

The next day features a guided walking tour of Victoria Falls. Expect to get up close and personal with the thunderous cascade, with guides sharing fascinating facts. One reviewer shared, “Seeing the falls in person is breathtaking—nothing prepares you for the roar and mist.” The experience is both awe-inspiring and humbling, perfect for nature lovers.

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Chobe: The Wildlife Paradise

The final leg takes you from Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park, renowned for its massive herds of elephants and thriving wildlife. Staying at the Chobe Safari Lodge, you’ll enjoy deluxe rooms and a variety of safari activities—including 4×4 game drives and boat safaris on the Chobe River.

Day 10 offers multiple safari options, with guided drives that are described as comfortable yet thrilling. The boat safaris are particularly praised for their relaxed pace and closer animal encounters. One guest mentioned, “Watching elephants cross the river in the boat was a moment I’ll never forget.” The expert guides help spot elusive predators and share interesting tidbits about the park’s ecology.

The tour wraps up with a morning safari on your last day, leaving you with unforgettable memories of Africa’s wild heart before heading to the airport for your departure.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Comprehensive Experience: Combining city, wilderness, and waterfalls, this trip touches on Africa’s most iconic sights. It’s suited for travelers wanting a full-spectrum adventure within a carefully curated schedule.

High-Quality Accommodations: Staying in luxury lodges and hotels ensures comfort after busy days of exploration. Many reviews appreciate the personalized service and scenic settings.

Expert Guides: The success of safaris often hinges on guides, and this tour’s guides are consistently praised for their knowledge, friendliness, and dedication. They help turn sightings into educational moments and ensure safety.

Diverse Activities: From scenic drives at Chapman’s Peak to adventure-packed safaris and relaxing river cruises, there’s a good mix of experiences catering to different interests.

Value for Money: With all park fees, activities, and intra-flights included, the $9,259 price tag covers a lot, especially considering the level of comfort and the expert guidance provided.

Practical Considerations and Tips

While the itinerary is packed, travelers should be prepared for some early mornings—common for safaris and city tours. The flights between destinations are scheduled to maximize exploration time but can be a bit tight; keeping your travel documents handy is advisable.

The group size tends to be small and intimate, which allows for personalized attention from guides and a more immersive experience. However, it’s not suitable for those with mobility issues, as some activities involve walking in uneven terrain.

Since drones are not allowed, you won’t be able to capture aerial shots, but this restriction helps protect the wildlife and natural environment.

Final Thoughts on the Experience

This 11-day Africa adventure offers a well-rounded, luxurious, and authentic taste of what the continent has to offer. It’s perfect for first-time visitors eager to see the highlights, as well as seasoned travelers looking for a comfortable, guided experience that minimizes hassle.

While it’s on the pricier side, the inclusivity of accommodations, flights, and activities makes it a compelling package for travelers who want to avoid the logistical headaches of planning each element independently. The knowledgeable guides and quality accommodations truly elevate the experience, making it more than just a sightseeing tour—the tour becomes a storybook of Africa’s most captivating sights and encounters.

If you crave a mix of vibrant city life, wild safaris, and stunning waterfalls in a seamless, high-end package, this tour might be just what you need.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
All park fees, activities (unless optional), 10 nights of luxury accommodation, intra-flights, airport transfers, and most meals are included in the $9,259 price.

Are international flights included?
No, you will need to arrange your own international flights to and from Africa.

Is this tour suitable for families or mobility-impaired travelers?
It’s not suitable for people with mobility issues, and the tour is designed more for active travelers comfortable with early mornings and walking.

What kind of accommodations are provided?
Guests stay in five-star hotels and lodges, including the Sea-facing rooms at Table Bay Hotel, luxury safari suites in Karongwe, and deluxe rooms in Victoria Falls and Chobe.

How many flights are included?
There are three intra-flights: Cape Town to Kruger, Kruger to Victoria Falls, and Victoria Falls to Johannesburg.

Can I customize or cancel my booking?
Yes, you can reserve and pay later with flexible booking options, and cancellations are possible up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are meals included?
Most breakfasts are included, along with some lunches and dinners at lodges. Specifics are listed in the day-by-day plan.

What activities are optional?
The tour includes most activities; optional ones might be additional or personalized, but the core experiences are covered.

Does this tour include a guide?
Yes, a private professional guide accompanies you throughout, enhancing the experience with local insights and safety.

To sum it up, the Private Great Africa Escape offers a thoughtfully curated adventure that balances comfort, excitement, and cultural richness. It’s a fantastic choice for travelers looking to experience Africa’s top highlights without the hassle of planning every detail themselves.

You can check availability for your dates here: