South Africa, Zimbabwe & Botswana

Featuring Greater Kruger, Chobe National Park & the Rovos Rail

  • Date

    September 15 – October 1, 2025 | Mon / Tue – 16 Days 

  • Location

    Johannesburg | Pretoria | Hwange National Park | Victoria Falls | Chobe National Park | Cape Town | Table Mountain National Park | Cape of Good Hope | Miller’s Point | Greater Kruger

Overview

Are you ready for an all-encompassing adventure of unforgettable wildlife encounters, dramatic scenery, and impactful cultural experiences? Come explore some of the most desirable destinations in the world while staying in the finest accommodations—on the beautiful waterfront in Cape Town, a boutique lodge in Victoria Falls, a five-star safari lodge in Greater Kruger and aboard the luxury, vintage Rovos Rail!

Take a historical walk through the life of anti-apartheid activist, prisoner and global leader, Nelson Mandela. Tour Soweto and visit Robben Island with local guides to enlighten you and enhance your knowledge of South African history and culture.

Board the vintage Rovos Rail and stop at Hwange National Park for a game drive through this wildlife sanctuary before Victoria Falls and its rainforest envelope you. Feel like an authentic African explorer as you experience safaris in the Chobe National Park and Greater Kruger where lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants and Cape buffalo thrive in their natural surroundings. Cruise down the Chobe and Zambezi Rivers, stay in Cape Town and encounter coastal sea life and stunning scenery on the Cape Peninsula. Along the way, partake in cultural experiences, dine at the ocean’s edge, and visit famous vineyards!

The natural attractions are as appealing as ever—the green vineyards and stunning coast of the Cape; the tropical rainforests of Victoria Falls; the vast lands of the national parks—all await your arrival.

HIGHLIGHTS INCLUDE

  • Stay at Five-Star Kapama Private Game Reserve in Greater Kruger
  • Six game drives in Greater Kruger
  • Chobe National Park game drive & River Cruise Safari
  • Game drive excursion in Hwange National Park
  • Experience old-world elegance aboard the Rovos Rail
  • See spectacular Victoria Falls & Rainforest
  • Discovery tour of the Cape Peninsula
  • Miller’s Point Penguins & Seal Island Sightseeing Cruise
  • Lunch overlooking the Atlantic & Indian Oceans
  • Tour World Heritage Site—Robben Island
  • Elegant Dinner at Groot Constantia Wine Estate

PACKAGE INCLUDES

  • Roundtrip commercial economy class air from Indianapolis to Johannesburg, South Africa
  • Internal flights per itinerary
  • Escorted
  • 14 nights accommodations (11 nights hotel, 3 nights Rovos Rail)
  • Breakfast daily
  • 10 lunches, 14 dinners
  • Sightseeing and admissions per itinerary
  • Ground transportation
  • Hotel baggage handling

NOTE:

A passport is required to travel to this destination and must be valid for at least six months after your return.

A double-entry tourist visa is required for Zimbabwe and costs additional; will be issued and paid for upon entry.

This itinerary includes activities where moderate walking, sometimes on uneven terrain, is required. Some of the most unique sightseeing can be restrictive to motorcoaches, especially in historic areas.

Mon, Sep 15: Fly from Indianapolis, connecting enroute to Johannesburg, South Africa.

Tue, Sep 16: Arrive and transfer to nearby Sandton. Check in for two nights at the Sandton Sun Hotel located in the heart of Johannesburg’s economic hub, next door to Nelson Mandela Square. Dinner is included tonight at the hotel. (Meals: Dinner)

Wed, Sep 17: This morning, you’ll be introduced to South Africa’s biggest city on a guided highlights tour of Johannesburg and Soweto. Learn about the city’s history as you visit Constitutional Hill, then follow in the footsteps of Nelson Mandela in Soweto, with a tour of the Nelson Mandela House, Hector Pieterson Museum and Freedom Square. The afternoon is free for lunch on your own and time to get some shopping in before gathering for dinner at a local restaurant. (B,D)

Thu, Sep 18: After breakfast in the hotel, depart by motorcoach to the historic Rovos Rail Train Station in Pretoria. Board the train and check into your deluxe room for the next three nights and begin traversing the landscapes towards Victoria Falls. Travel through Warmbaths (aka Bela-Bela), named for its mineral waters, and Nylstroom, christened by the Voortrekkers as the source of the Nile River. Relax in your suite or join fellow travelers in the lounge car or observation car at the rear of the train. Lunch and dinner are served in the dining car. (B,L,D)

Fri, Sep 19: Breakfast is served in the dining cars as the train travels through baobab country. Continue towards Bulawayo, known as the second city of Zimbabwe. Sip traditional afternoon tea as the train passes sleepily through spectacular scenery; the relaxed pace of the day will allow you to store up energy for the exciting day tomorrow. (B,L,D)

Sat, Sep 20: Today the train travels between Gwaai and Dete along one of the world’s longest stretches of straight railway line, and along the eastern edge of Hwange National Park. Deboard the train for a game drive at The Hide in Hwange National Park. This rich and diverse wildlife sanctuary is the largest natural reserve in Zimbabwe and its extensive grasslands and woods are home to diverse wildlife like large elephant herds, lions and African wild dogs. (B,L,D)

Sun, Sep 21: Your train journey ends this morning at stunning Victoria Falls. Step off the train and gather for a guided tour of the falls and rainforest, gaining insight into some of the history and background of one of these grand falls, known locally as “Mosi Oa Tunya,” (or “The Smoke That Thunders”). Take as many photographs as you wish while you learn all about the surrounding flora and fauna. Next, have lunch with a spectacular backdrop perched above the rapids of the Zambezi River at the Lookout Café—boasting the best views of the Batonka Gorge and Victoria Falls Bridge. Then transfer to your home for the next two nights, the Batonka Guest Lodge. This upscale, boutique lodge is located just four kilometers from Victoria Falls National Park, and a fifteen minute stroll from the Walk With the Lions conservation project. After an afternoon rest, embark on an unforgettable sunset dinner cruise along the Zambezi River. Keep an eye out for hippos, crocodiles, and elephants along with many bird species that skim the waterline at sunset. (B,L,D)

Mon, Sep 22: Arise early for your next adventure, a game drive in the Chobe National Park in Botswana, just about an hour and a half drive from your hotel. The Chobe area is excellent for game-viewing and has the highest concentration of elephants anywhere in the world! The park is also famous for its huge herds of Cape Buffalo, the Puku Antelope, and its rich birdlife. After lunch at a park lodge, cruise along the Chobe River for game viewing from a different vantage point. Return to Victoria Falls in the early evening. (B,L,D)

Tue, Sep 23: Fly from Victoria Falls to Cape Town, South Africa’s legislative capital and oldest city. Transfer to your hotel, the Radisson Blu Waterfront. Listen to the sound of waves breaking on the shore while you unwind at the pool or enjoy additional rest and relaxation at the spa. Reconvene with the group for an included dinner. (B,D)

Wed, Sep 24: Today’s adventures begin with a cable car ride up Table Mountain for a spectacular view of the city and surrounds.  Next, head to the waterfront for lunch on your own before a riveting tour of Robben Island. Begin at the waterfront multimedia exhibition and museum shop before hopping onto the ferry for a scenic trip to the island, a World Heritage Site. Once on Robben Island, the tour is guided by a former political prisoner of the island, offering unique and incomparable insights into the island’s history. Freshen up at the hotel before departing to Groot Constantia Wine Estate for an elegant dinner. (B,D)

Thu, Sep 25: After breakfast, depart for a tour of Langa Township, the oldest suburb designated for Black Africans before the apartheid era, which in the past, was the site of much resistance to segregation. Today, proud shopkeepers sell their wares and delightful aromas rise from the food stands. You may even encounter local musicians sharing their talents as well! Townships are a significant part of South African culture and history, and touring with a local guide is one of the best ways to experience the perspective of true South Africans. Next, visit Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, both are a kaleidoscope of Cape Dutch architecture that gives a sense of the country’s Dutch colonial history. Cap off the afternoon with wine tasting and lunch at Grande Provence Wine Estate, which boasts a 325-year history. Return to Cape Town for some time at leisure before is included at a local restaurant; a symphony of flavors awaits! (B,L,D)

Fri, Sep 26: Wander in a southerly direction today which includes a drive through “Millionaires Mile”, encompassing the towns of Bantry Bay, Clifton & Camps Bay—the famous Atlantic Seaboard. Stop in Hout Bay for a fascinating boat trip to Seal Island to catch a glimpse of these wonderful creatures at play. Back on land, continue south to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve! Ride the funicular to “The Point” to see the phenomenon of where the Atlantic meets the Indian Ocean before lunch at the famous Two Oceans Restaurant. Return to Cape Town via the eastern coast line via Millers Point, The Boulders, famous for their penguin residents. Drive through the fishing village of Fish Hoek and pass the Silver Mine Nature Reserve with a stunning view of Muizeberg Beach. Dinner is included at the chic Bungalow Restaurant in Clifton. (B,L,D)

Sat, Sep 27: This morning depart Cape Town on a flight to Hoedspruit, and on to the five-star River Lodge on Kapama Private Game Reserve. Check in at this lavish resort for the last three nights of your tour , get settled, and have lunch. Later, enjoy a game drive in the reserve, home to Africa’s “big five” as well as many other mammal species and birds. Return to the lodge for dinner. (B,L,D)

Sun, Sep 28: Wake up early with the four-legged residents, grab your coffee and a quick bite before heading out on your morning game drive. Upon return, have your full breakfast and the afternoon to relax. The next game drive is set for late afternoon. Dine with fellow group members upon your return. (B,L,D)

Mon, Sep 29: Set off on another first-rate wildlife experience on an early morning game drive. Return to the tranquility of the lodge and perhaps indulge in a spa treatment or partake in the lodge’s amenities during your leisure time. Embark on a late afternoon game drive before a delightful Farewell Dinner. Propose a toast to new friends and lasting memories before spending your last night under the African sky. (B,L,D)

Tue, Sep 30: If you have not seen every animal on your list, don’t worry! There’s another chance today on an early morning game drive before breakfast. Transfer to Hoedspruit airport for the return flights to Johannesburg and overnight flights back home. (B)

Wed, Oct 1: Arrive back to Indianapolis in the early afternoon.

Sandton Sun Hotel, Johannesburg, South Africa. The hotel is designed for luxury, with rooms that will envelope you with elegance, not to mention having the finest shops at your doorstep. Highlights: in-room Nespresso machine • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • rooftop bar • outdoor pool • fitness center • spa • laundry service.

Batonka Guest Lodge, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. Exclusive 27-room guest lodge set in lush gardens, a tranquil haven from the bustle of town but within walking distance of main attractions.  Highlights: Spacious, non-smoking suites with verandah opening out into the surrounding gardens • in-room coffee/tea maker • complimentary Wifi • restaurant • lounge • outdoor pool • laundry service.

Radisson Blu Hotel Waterfront, Cape Town, South Africa. Overlooking Cape Town’s famous Robben Island and the Atlantic Ocean, this hotel boasts tranquil views and luxurious amenities. Highlights: in-room coffee/tea maker, mini-bar • complimentary WiFi Internet access • restaurant • bar • outdoor pool • fitness center • spa • laundry service.

Kapama River Lodge Game Reserve, Hoedspruit, South Africa. This lodge is situated within Kapama Game Reserve in Greater Kruger and presents the perfect luxurious safari accommodation. Highlights: spacious, luxurious, rooms featuring a terrace with uninterrupted views into the private game reserve • air conditioning • in-room coffee/tea maker, refrigerator • complimentary WiFi • restaurant • bar • outdoor pool • fitness center.

Rovos Rail

Deluxe Room – © Rovos Rail

Deluxe Bathroom – © Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail Dining – © Rovos Rail

Rovos Rail Bar – © Rovos Rail

Pricing

  • Estimated Package with Air
  • Double P/P – $14,999
  • Single – $18,999

*Package Price includes ESTIMATED air from Indianapolis and based on Rovos Rail Deluxe accommodations.

Other railcar accommodations may be available. Group air prices will be confirmed in mid-December 2024.

Additional cost applies for double entry visa into Zimbabwe; not included in package price.

Price subject to change due to the increase in exchange rate or fuel surcharge. 

Documents Required: Valid Passport and visa, visit travel.state.gov for specific requirements