11-Day South Africa Itinerary | Big Five, Wine & Conservation

An 11-day South Africa Big Five, Wine & Conservation tour offers a comprehensive mix of luxury safari, scenic winelands, and hands-on wildlife protection. Typically, these itineraries start in Cape Town (Table Mountain, Winelands) before flying to private reserves in the Greater Kruger area (e.g., Moditlo) or malaria-free options like Marataba for intimate game drives.

This Trip with a Purpose visits locations that are committed to protecting endangered species and improving the quality of life for local residents. Definitely a good choice if you want your vacation money to go toward something meaningful.

This 11-Day South Africa Itinerary offers the pinnacle of safari experiences at Marataba Mountain Lodge (part of Marakele National Park) and Great Fish River Lodge (Kundwe Private Game Reserve), both of which are located in Marakele. The pristine, malaria-free areas each feature a distinct flora and fauna. Exciting wildlife watching and breathtaking vistas of the reserves’ beautiful surroundings are available on walking safaris and game drives. Guests at both locations have the rare chance to get involved in a variety of conservation projects spearheaded by dedicated groups of people. Particularly noteworthy are their endeavours to protect rhinos.

Spend some time in the picturesque town of Franschhoek between your two safaris. South Africa’s “gourmet capital” is well-known for its exquisite cuisine, world-class wines, and original artwork, not to mention its picturesque scenery and charming buildings. You may explore the Cape Winelands from the comfort of La Clé Lodge. No matter what your desires are—romance, adventure, quality family time, etc.—this journey will fulfil them all. It’s a fantastic way to have a luxurious safari vacation while still making a difference.

A Detailed 11-Day South Africa Itinerary

Days 1-5: Embark on Your First Safari Adventure | 4 Nights

I hope you enjoy your stay in South Africa! You will begin your tour in South Africa with a road transfer to your first safari destination when you meet your driver in Johannesburg.

Marataba Mountain Lodge is a stunning safari destination, situated only three and a half hours outside of Johannesburg. During the first four days of your educational, conservation-focused safari, you will be surrounded by the breathtaking Waterberg mountain range. Beyond the typical daily game drives, Marataba provides a distinct array of activities. Walk safaris are exhilarating, while river cruises are relaxing, perfect for birdwatchers.

Relax in a shady area of the resort and take in the breathtaking scenery and wandering animals while you take advantage of all the activities on offer. Indulge in your meals while being pampered by the warm hospitality of the staff, all while basking in the shade provided by the famous Acacia trees of the bushveld. You would have gained a deeper appreciation for this reserve and its priceless animals after spending the day at Marataba. Gather around the fire as night falls and share tales of the day while you look up at the stars.

Stop by the remote village of Obakeng on one of your safari days to see the locals in action. Find out how the More Community Trust collaborates with locals to address a range of issues. Along with meeting the Induna (Village Chief), the tour stops at the Motshabaesi Primary School and the Itekeng Basha Crèche.
The next stop is at the modest Heuningvley Primary School on Honingvlei Farm. This is the sole local educational institution, and students come from farms up to fifty km away.

Day 5-7: Sojourn in the Cape Winelands! | 3 Nights

Visit the picturesque town of Franschhoek, a haven for foodies and wine enthusiasts, after an instructive safari at Marataba. La Clé Lodge, located just a short distance from the town center, is an ideal starting point for exploring this beautiful region of the country. Your visit will be one to remember thanks to the fantastic staff, especially the chef.

In addition to its stunning scenery, Franschhoek offers a wide variety of activities. Try wines at estates that are famous all around the globe. Indulge in a wide array of eateries that have won awards. Explore the many stores and marketplaces or go to one of the many galleries to see the world’s most impressive art collections. Visitors to the Franschhoek Motor Museum will be captivated by the vast collection of automobiles on show. In addition, the indigenous fynbos—which is unique to the Cape—along with the numerous mountain routes and gardens will captivate those who love nature.

You can help the local community that relies on tourism by taking advantage of all the town has to offer. While you’re here, your stay at La Clé will double as a donation to the Kusasa Project, a fantastic organization. To make sure that local children have the chance to go to school, our program helps them raise money for school fees.

Day 8-10: End Off With a Luxurious Eastern Cape Safari | 3 Nights

Even after a fantastic time in the Winelands, you will long for the exotic safari atmosphere — the thrill of getting up before the sun comes up and going on a game drive in the cool morning. Sipping a sundowner as you watch the horizon change hues and the cicadas serenade the night sky is the perfect way to end a day spent in the bushveld. You will return to safari for your last stop.

The flight from Cape Town to Gqeberha (previously Port Elizabeth) is brief, and then you will be met by your driver for the approximately two-hour drive to Kwandwe Private Game Reserve. For the duration of your journey, Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge will serve as your temporary residence.

The lodge’s plush accommodations have everything you need for a relaxing vacation. On a spacious deck that looks out over the Great Fish River, you’ll find your private plunge pool, perfect for cooling off. In the evenings, settle in for a glass of wine from the extensive cellar while enjoying a roaring fire in the main lodge area.

You can become involved with Kwandwe, a conservation pillar in the Eastern Cape. Kwandwe assumes the crucial role of safeguarding the rhino population from poaching and other dangers to guarantee the survival of the species. Help keep them safe by taking part in monitoring, tracking, and other related activities. For an additional fee, guests can partake in a rhino conservation safari that delves further into larger-scale initiatives including micro-chipping, ear notching, and DNA gathering.

Kwandwe is a people who are really concerned about their neighbours and fellow citizens. Explore the Kwandwe Reserve’s Mgcamabele Centre and Ubunye pre-school to find out more about the community’s support.

Day 11: Bid Farewell!

On this, your final morning in the peaceful Kwandwe, take it all in before your driver takes you to Port Elizabeth International Airport, where you can fly home or continue your safari—an experience you will never forget.

End of the 11-Day South Africa Itinerary | Big Five, Wine & Conservation

Inclusions

  • Meals:
    Marataba Mountain Lodge : Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
    La Cle : Bed & Breakfast
    Kwandwe Great Fish River Lodge : Fully Inclusive (All Meals, Selected Beverages)
  • All necessary permits, conservancy and park fees
  • All activities specified, including morning and evening game drives each full day on safari
  • 24/7 assistance and support during your trip

Exclusions

  • Your international flights to and from Africa + any related taxes
  • Any travel visas you require (though we help you with this)
  • Tips
  • Personal items (eg. travel insurance, souvenirs)