Cape Town

Day +1: En Route from U.S.
Sunday, September 8, 2024

Day +2: Arrive in Cape Town, South Africa
Monday, September 9, 2024
Upon arrival to Cape Town International Airport, transfer to the hotel to enjoy an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond

Day +3: Cape Town
Tuesday, September 10, 2024
After breakfast, meet your knowledgeable guide in the lobby and embark (via air-conditioned vehicle) for a full-day tour of Cape Town.

Today's first highlight is a cable car ride ascending Table Mountain (weather permitting). The cable car's rotating floor ensures unobstructed views during the journey—from the vast South Atlantic Ocean to the sprawling city below. At the summit, take a leisurely walk to the various lookout points, each a postcard perfect spot for unbeatable photography opportunities.

Continue with a panoramic tour of the city, passing by some of Cape Town's most iconic landmarks while the guide offers fascinating insights into the area's history and culture. Notable points of interest include the Houses of Parliament, City Hall, the Cape Castle, the Slave Lodge, and St. George's Cathedral. Known as the “People’s Cathedral” for its role in the resistance against apartheid, St. George’s Cathedral is the oldest in South Africa and the mother church of the Anglican Diocese of Cape Town.

Next visit Company's Garden and Greenmarket Square with time to browse local crafts and souvenirs. Originally set up in the late 1600s to sell fresh produce from the Company's Garden, this bustling market features vendors selling a variety of goods like wall hangings, wooden kitchenware, necklaces, toys, beaded animal figurines, and more.

Afterwards, enter the eye-catching Bo-Kaap neighborhood, also known as the Malay Quarter. Located between the Cape Town city center and the foothills of Signal Hill, Bo-Kaap is named for the Afrikaans phrase meaning “above the Cape.” One of the oldest and most historic residential areas in Cape Town, it's synonymous with Islamic Cape Malay culture. Delve into South Africa's rich and complex food heritage during a cuisine tasting featuring a delicious blend of flavors and techniques—from Cape Dutch to French, Indian, and Japanese. Options may include a hearty gatsby sandwich, South African braai (barbecue), the fragrant, sweet-and-sour bobotie, an Indian inspired meal known as bunny chow (which aside from the unusual name, has nothing to do with rabbits), and sushi. 

After feasting, return to the hotel and unwind with an evening at leisure.
Overnight: Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond (B,L)

Day +4: Cape Town
Wednesday, September 11, 2024
Following breakfast, set off for Robben Island, one of the most significant and inspiring landmarks in South Africa. Arriving to the island by ferry, meet your special guide—Nelson Mandela's friend and former jailer, Christo Brand—for an exclusive tour. Hear about the struggles and triumphs of the anti-apartheid movement as you explore the prison cells, the quarry where prisoners labored, and other poignant sites on the island.

Lunch is at a nearby waterfront restaurant followed by an afternoon at the property. Perhaps indulge in a traditional afternoon tea, relax by the pool, or enjoy the spa facilities (additional fees apply).
Overnight: Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond (B,L)

Day +5: Cape Town | Flight to Johannesburg | Main Program Begins
Thursday, September 12, 2024
After breakfast, transfer to the airport for the group flight to Johannesburg to join the main program. (B)

B = Breakfast, L = Lunch, D = Dinner

Pre-tour space is limited. We recommend reserving early for best availability.

This pre-tour is not escorted by an Orbridge Travel Director. Included sightseeing is accompanied by a local guide.

Activities are generally not very strenuous, however, we expect that guests can enjoy two hours or more of walking, are sure-footed on uneven surfaces, and can walk up and down hillsides and stairs without assistance. Due to the structure of some buildings, facilities for the disabled may be limited.

Max elevation at the top of Table Mountain: approximately 3,500 feet.

• 3 nights accommodations at the five-star Mount Nelson Hotel by Belmond (or similar)
• 3 breakfasts and 2 lunches
• Guided tours of iconic landmarks, the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, and Robben Island
• Wine tasting excursion
• Culinary journey in Cape Town
• Transportation for included activities
• Luggage porterage
• Gratuities to local guide, driver, porters, hotel staff, and wait staff for included meals
• Airport transfers for guests arriving during the suggested times
• Internal airfare from Cape Town to Johannesburg