Home to the origins of ancient man...
as well as breathtaking big game animal viewing, South Africa is truly vibrant in nature.
Upon arrival, Divine Destination Collection staff will greet and escort you in a private transfer to the luxurious and majestic Table Bay Hotel in Cape Town.
Chances are you will be arriving late in the day or early evening, so tonight we’ll keep it light. Join us for a private casual cocktail reception in the hotel’s luxurious Table Mountain Presidential Suite with hot and cold hors d’oeuvres and an opportunity to mix and mingle before heading to your room.
Today we immerse you immediately in your destination—The City of Cape Town—one of the most beautiful cities in the world. Its grandeur is staged with the backdrop of Table Mountain, glorious beaches, enchanting vineyards, rugged land and seascapes, and a unique collection of fauna and flora.
Cape Town is renowned for its warm hospitality, fine dining, award-winning wines and a diverse cosmopolitan culture. In 2011, the city was voted “no.1 best destination in the world” by TripAdvisor. Well-deserved praise.
We head off down the spectacular coastal highway, enjoying the breathtaking views along the way to Cape Point.
Cape Point
At “Cape Point” we’ll take the funicular to the Old Cape Point Lighthouse. Enjoy breath-taking views and see the cliffs against which the Indian and Atlantic Oceans crash. In 1580 Sir Francis Drake proclaimed this as “The most stately thing and the fairest Cape we saw in the whole circumference of the earth.” Francis was so right.
With Divine, unexpected surprises abound and pop-up experiences can happen at any time, but our next exclusive venture is planned. Explore Boulders Beach and delight in the opportunity to Paddle with the Penguins, an up-close and personal experience to see these playful animals and their happy feet from the vantage point of a two-person kayak. (Don’t worry, for those who choose to view penguins at a distance, we will gain access to the boardwalk to see the colony from land.)
Boulders Beach
Leisurely explore the rocky pools and outcrops of Boulders Beach and experience the penguins up close and personal in their natural environment. The trip is done from the comfort of an two-person kayak and only covers a short distance, as the emphasis is on relaxing and enjoying the surroundings, and of course, the penguins.
We return to the hotel in the early afternoon. Lunch and the afternoon are at leisure to discover and experience. We have a selection of optional activities available for Divine guests or explore the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. The Divine Destination Collection’s private hospitality desk will be staffed with your personal concierge and local expert to make suggestions and reservations for such things as the following:
High Tea at Mount Nelson Hotel
Enjoy delicate finger sandwiches filled with rare roast beef and rocket, smoked salmon, egg mayonnaise or cucumber. Follow with a delectable dark chocolate cake, lemon meringue and freshly baked scones with clotted cream and preserves.
Want to sample a special local flavour? Order a typical South African milk tart, called “melktert” in Afrikaans.
Robben Island
Harley Davidson Rides along the coast
Tonight we reconvene to compare notes on our day at our private cocktail reception complete with hors d’oeuvres and the evening wouldn’t be complete without an interesting Divine surprise…hmmm.
This city is too cosmopolitan and rich in culinary experience for us to plan your dinner, so we have included a cash allowance of 750.00 Rand for you to dine at the restaurant of your choice. We will advise on the best restaurants in town and make reservations for you. Your Divine Destination Collection private concierge is always at your service.
We start with a morning excursion to famous Table Mountain to take in the view of the city. Ascending Table Mountain by rotating cable car is breathtaking, with stunning views over the Peninsula. Once at the summit, you can easily explore the mountain trail and perhaps spot one of the famed “Dassies”. Then…a Divine-by-Design Travel Advisory Board inclusion…an escorted trip into Langa Township to discover the culture, the hierarchy and the rich heritage that continues today—promises to be an extremely interesting and expansive experience.
The morning experience continues as your senses discover the heritage in the tranquil surrounds of the Cape Winelands. Exclusive wine estates of international calibre invite you to sample fine wine amidst scenic vineyards that date back to the 1600s.
Our first stop is Boschendal Wine Estate – a classic example of traditional Cape Dutch architecture…here we’ll enjoy chocolate and wine tasting…YUM!
Boschendal Wine Estate
From here, a selection of classic vintage cars will pick us up and take us to our next stop…the beautiful Grand Provence Wine Estate to sample a few of their award-winning vintages.
Grand Provence Wine Estate
From the estate, our classic vintage car takes us on to the charming village of Franschhoek. Everyone will have the opportunity to stroll the main street, peruse the variety of shops and grab a bite for lunch at one of the quaint cafes or bistros.
Village of Franschhoek
Spectacular vineyards cover these mountain slopes settled more than 300 years ago by the Huguenots, who brought with them their superlative French wine and food culture. This is a valley rich in history, and centered around a picturesque village of friendly, welcoming people.
In the village you will find wonderful crafts, art and antique shops and galleries. The main street is lined with quaint coffee shops and restaurants.
Meanwhile, back in Cape Town
Afternoon at leisure in Cape Town…take time for shopping or exploring the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
This evening, prepare for a magical journey that is certain to leave you tapping your fingers, another one of our eye-opening personal experiences.
Cape Town is an incredibly musical city, perhaps the most creative in South Africa, due partly to the natural environment, which encourages inventiveness, but mainly because of the city’s history and diversity of people, cultures and sounds that have ended up here.
On this special music journey, we’ll travel deep inside the jazz music of the city by visiting a local jazz musician at home for dinner and a concert. Dinner is a local traditional spread, with a small starter on arrival, dinner and dessert. The concert is weaved across the evening between courses.
The experience is intimate and deep, full of music and engagement and fun. It is a unique opportunity to meet local jazz musicians away from club stages, and an excellent way to discover more about Cape Town and the lives of the people that live in it—through the music.
On this trip of a lifetime, you must experience as much of South Africa as you can. The journey into the bush begins with a private transfer to the airport and flight to Skukuza Airport.
The sense of Safari commences immediately as you are picked up and transferred to Londolozi through the game reserve. Enjoy a picnic lunch served onboard.
Prepare your senses for Varty Camp
Guests of The Divine Destination Collection will stay at Varty Camp, where we have exclusive use of this venue. Your continental breakfast, pre-game drive, full breakfast, afternoon tea and dinner are included daily. In addition, all beverages including alcoholic, are available on a complimentary basis. Activities are also included, and each day will present two game drives through the reserve.
Tonight immerses you completely in your destination as you encounter our Divine Destination Collection private Boma dinner, (a unique area under the African stars, where special tribal dining experiences are hosted). You will be welcomed and regaled with stories on the history & vision of Londolozi by a member of the Varty family, owners and founders of this incredible study in luxury-meets-adventure camp. The camp’s very own African Ladies Choir will entertain with traditional music and dance…welcome to the BUSH!
Early Morning Game Drive
African safaris are without a doubt, the most soul-enriching experience one can have in life. With over 20 national game parks, three transfrontier parks and many private reserves, South Africa is blessed with an abundance of safari options that will guarantee a true African experience.
Besides helping you to sight one of the Big 5 (elephant, lion, leopard, rhino, buffalo), our knowledgeable Rangers and Trackers will share their love and respect for the animals and the land.
Upon your return, enjoy the beauty and tranquility of your setting by relaxing in your personal plunge pool or enjoy an activity of your choice included in your Divine Destination Collection experience.
Optional Activities
Yoga
1 hr. photography session
Medicine Bush Walk
Londolozi Village Walk
It is in this light that the Freedom’s Way art installation has been completed to draw attention to the values Mandela put forward to the nation and to compliment the Londolozi village walk, which guests will experience.
The village walk, which traces the steps of Mandela, starts at the 1926 Sparta Camp, situated in the heart of Varty Camp. Lead by Linah Lamula, the village walk allows guests to interact with staff and their families who have lived and worked at Londolozi for over 30 years.
Departing from the 1926 Sparta Camp, you pass through the Varty Boma, where the family fire has burned in the same place for 86 years. Continuing on, you pass the Cubs Den, where children of guests are enthralled under professional tutelage in nature’s outdoor classroom. The walk continues to the entrance of the staff village, where an old leadwood log serves as a rubbing post. Once you pass through the entrance, you arrive at the evocative “Freedom’s Way” art installation by Simon Max Bannister.
Your journey then takes you to the Elder’s Village, the Spaza Shop, the Clinic and Learning Centre, ending at the children’s playground. Once you exit the village, you make a brief stop at the Design and Creative Centre. The village walk ends with an optional visit to the Garden of Celebration, where you are invited to plant a tree symbolic of whatever reason you choose– in aid of the Good Work Foundation (GWF).
While it is important to recognize Mandela’s solo achievements, it is critical that we take his passion into our own lives, taking forward the elements of great leadership to heal the human affliction in the world. Nelson Mandela is an icon and leader loved by all South Africans, young, old, rich and poor. He is known and respected throughout the world. Through his attitude and values, he taught us valuable lessons:
Courage: “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid but he who conquers that fear.”
Freedom: “I have walked the long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter. I have made mistakes along the way. But I have discovered the secret after climbing a great hill, one only finds there are many more hills to climb.”
Resilience: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.”
Trust: “We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.”
Unity: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Empathy: “I stand here before you not as a prophet but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I, therefor place the remaining years of my life in your hands.”
This afternoon, enjoy the time-honoured colonial experience of Tea Time on the Deck.
Following tea, we’ll head out again for another game drive, and what could be more adventuresome, luxurious and spirited than enjoying a cocktail in the bush, or “sundowner” as it’s known in these parts.
Next, join us for a private cocktail reception prior to our “Princess Alice” theme dinner on the Varty Deck. This styled dining experience celebrates the story of a young princess who partook in a famous hunt during the 1930s.
While the styling of the evening centers around her elegant fashion of pearls, lace and candelabras, the story is one of bravery and adventure. This story is told at the beginning of the meal by Duncan McClarty (Londolozi’s Operations Manager) alongside the presentation of a 4 or 5-course meal menu. Guests enjoy fine food accompanied by world-class South African wines and are kept entertained by the theatre of the evening with the magnificent African bush as the perfect backdrop.
Awake to the early morning mists and prepare to share close quarters with some of the most interesting and awe-inspiring animals in their natural habitat, as we embark on our early morning game drive.
Today, experience something you didn’t try yesterday from the hotel’s list of activities. Or, if you loved what you did yesterday, do it again. Experiences include:
Yoga
1 hr. photography session
Medicine Bush Walk
Londolozi Village Walk
It is in this light that the Freedom’s Way art installation has been completed to draw attention to the values Mandela put forward to the nation and to compliment the Londolozi village walk, which guests will experience.
The village walk, which traces the steps of Mandela, starts at the 1926 Sparta Camp, situated in the heart of Varty Camp. Lead by Linah Lamula, the village walk allows guests to interact with staff and their families who have lived and worked at Londolozi for over 30 years.
Departing from the 1926 Sparta Camp, you pass through the Varty Boma, where the family fire has burned in the same place for 86 years. Continuing on, you pass the Cubs Den, where children of guests are enthralled under professional tutelage in nature’s outdoor classroom. The walk continues to the entrance of the staff village, where an old leadwood log serves as a rubbing post. Once you pass through the entrance, you arrive at the evocative “Freedom’s Way” art installation by Simon Max Bannister.
Your journey then takes you to the Elder’s Village, the Spaza Shop, the Clinic and Learning Centre, ending at the children’s playground. Once you exit the village, you make a brief stop at the Design and Creative Centre. The village walk ends with an optional visit to the Garden of Celebration, where you are invited to plant a tree symbolic of whatever reason you choose– in aid of the Good Work Foundation (GWF).
While it is important to recognize Mandela’s solo achievements, it is critical that we take his passion into our own lives, taking forward the elements of great leadership to heal the human affliction in the world. Nelson Mandela is an icon and leader loved by all South Africans, young, old, rich and poor. He is known and respected throughout the world. Through his attitude and values, he taught us valuable lessons:
Courage: “I learned that courage was not the absence of fear but the triumph over it. The brave man is not he who does not feel afraid but he who conquers that fear.”
Freedom: “I have walked the long road to freedom. I have tried not to falter. I have made mistakes along the way. But I have discovered the secret after climbing a great hill, one only finds there are many more hills to climb.”
Resilience: “The greatest glory in living lies not in never falling but in rising every time we fall.”
Trust: “We signal that good can be achieved amongst human beings who are prepared to trust, prepared to believe in the goodness of people.”
Unity: “Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.”
Empathy: “I stand here before you not as a prophet but as a humble servant of you, the people. Your tireless and heroic sacrifices have made it possible for me to be here today. I, therefor place the remaining years of my life in your hands.”
You may wish to relax and enjoy a massage before Tea Time on the Deck, overlooking the stunning and transformative landscape.
The late afternoon continues lazily, but we power up to experience our next game drive, never complete without the decadent “sundowner” inclusion. You deserve one.
After the afternoon game drive, an unforgettable surprise awaits you
Tonight, under the stars, we cap off our stay at Londolozi with an extraordinary Divine surprise. All we can say is that you will be thunderstruck, and talking about the experience long after your South African journey is over. What is the mystery event? You know us, we won’t disappoint, and we’re not letting the cat out of the bag. Yet.
Briefly the capital of Northern Rhodesia (as Zambia was previously named from 1911 to 1935), the town of Livingstone is quaint with a colonial feel. The main street is lined with classic Victorian buildings, the wooden verandas and tin roofed houses serving as classic examples of English settler architecture. Livingstone is relatively compact, so it’s easy to navigate on foot.
Upon arrival we will be met and expedited through customs and immigration before being transferred privately to the iconic and luxurious Royal Livingstone Hotel.
As guests of the hotel, you may use their hotel card to enter the Falls area (a mere 10-minute stroll) and explore on your own.
Tonight is a casual get-together after a busy travel day. Enjoy a private cocktail reception complete with hors d’oeuvres on the Lounge Terrace overlooking the lawns & mighty Zambezi River.
When David Livingstone first glimpsed the Falls in 1855, he claimed, “scenes so lovely they must have
been gazed upon by angels in their flight” and named them after Queen Victoria. The force of the falling water
produces high clouds of spray, which gave the Falls their African name: Mosi-oa-Tunya, or “The Smoke That Thunders.”
Dinner at leisure and on your own. Why not try the Monkey Tree for a 5-star romantic candlelit dinner with only the trees and the stars for company. Or, perhaps you’re in the mood to discover The Royal Livingstone Dining Room, which serves an eclectic array of African, Indian and European cuisine – it’s renowned as the ultimate dining experience in Zambia.
Our private, one-of-kind adventures begin again. Experience the ultimate encounter with rescued and orphaned elephants during our exclusive elephant interaction. All under the guidance of their handlers who will share stories about the incredible beast and its relationship with man.
Lunch today is on your own.
This afternoon you may wish to relax or you may want to continue your own personal exploration of the area. Check out our optional afternoon activities, including:
Zambezi River Canoe Safari
Helicopter flight over the Falls
Tour to Devil’s Pool
Tonight places you on the upper Zambezi River aboard 8-seater Safari boats for a magical, mystical experience. As the light softens and the wildlife heads to the river for their last drink of the day, you join them with a G&T or sundowner in hand for a two-hour late afternoon’s game-viewing cruise. Explore the wide, winding river and myriad of islands, viewing hippos, birds, crocs & possibly elephants before stopping at an island for drinks & canapés. Livingstone never had it so good.
Dinner at leisure and on your own, your Divine Destination Collection personal concierge and local expert will be on hand to make recommendations and reservations.
Located next door, the AVANI Victoria Falls Resort (the Royal Livingstone’s sister property) offers 3 very casual restaurant options for your dining pleasure:
The Theatre of Food
Poolside Bar & Grill
Squires
Victoria Falls revealed with a twist, a discovery of the Falls from the Zimbabwe side. The Divine Destination Collection will ensure you come away from this magical setting having learned and integrated this great spectacle through all lenses.
We specialize in behind-the-veil journeys, and today presents a cultural experience you might only read about in National Geographic…in a private rendezvous arranged by Divine, visit a local Mukuni Village and meet the Chief. Here, you will see how people live, work and play in a local African Village.
Afternoon at leisure, to enjoy the beautiful resort surroundings of the hotel. Take a stroll over to the AVANI Victoria Falls Hotel and visit their handicraft market.
Optional Afternoon Activities
Spa Treatments
Shopping Maramba Market
Farewell Colonial Evening on the Deck
The Colonial theme of this evening is reminiscent of Kenya in the early 1920s and 30s, a very romantic and decadent time in Africa.
Enjoy sunset cocktails on the lower deck overlooking the Zambezi River with the plume of the Falls in the distance, followed by a sumptuous dinner on the upper level. An African Marimba Band will entertain throughout, making this a perfect way to bid fond farewell to Africa.
Check out of the hotel for a flight from Livingstone to the Johannesburg Airport. Depart Johannesburg for your flight home. (Note: when booking your international flights, please ensure your flight out of Johannesburg departs after 4:00 p.m.)
Wheels up, heart open, mind expanded, senses satiated as we depart South Africa, a land for all seasons and the sacred motherland, cradle of humanity….
The Divine Destination Collection has combined unique experiences, adventure, luxury and revealed the heart and soul of South Africa & Zambia to you. The memories vibrant and emotion-filled, the photographs alive with story, tales to tell back home formed…the richness of the experience beyond words, connections made and the traveller transformed.
