South Africa Journey

Oct 17, 2014 Avatar Maria Ortega Maria Ortega

One of the highlights of my last year’s travels was a trip to South Africa.

Our itinerary started with a pleasant and comfortable flight from New York to Johannesburg via South African Airways. On arrival we were transferred to the domestic terminal for a short flight from Johannesburg to Madikwe Private Safari Lodge via Federal Air.

The Madikwe Reserve is a nice option for a safari in South Africa. So many people know about Kruger National Park, but far fewer know about the Madikwe Reserve, a great destination for its own unique strengths, with easy access from Johannesburg. The management and owners’ enthusiasm in promoting the property is visible, from the deluxe comfortable accommodations, impeccable service, great food, excellent game viewing, and friendly atmosphere. Madikwe Reserve is located in a malaria free zone.

Madikwe’s game viewing is of a very high standard, and provides sightings of zebra, Impala, wildebeest, giraffe, white rhino, lion, elephant and hyenas. We spent three excellent days in the area, game viewing both mornings and afternoons, admiring the breathtaking beauty of the place.

Upon our return from Madikwe to Johannesburg, we spent two full days in this historic city. A Soweto Tour, a visit to the Hector Pieterson Memorial, Mandela House, and Liliesleaf Farm were included.

After our stay in Johannesburg, we flew to Cape Town for a 4-night stay.

A full day Cape Point tour, included a visit to Hout Bay, a Seal Island Cruise, a visit to Boulders Beach with its penguins, Cape Point Nature Reserve and Kirstensboch Gardens. Cape Point and its surroundings is a nature enthusiast paradise.

On our second day, we experienced a full day journey to the Winelands, visiting beautiful Stellenbosch, with lunch at a Relais Chateaux property in Franschhoek, plus wine tasting and a cellar tour in the afternoon.

The next day, we headed to Table Mountain, and a cable ride for breathtaking panoramic views of the city. We spent the rest of our leisure time with delightful strolls by the Victoria and Alfred waterfront, a centre of colourful activity, restaurant options, and shopping.

There are many reasons to visit South Africa: bio-diversity, history, beautiful landscapes, multicultural environment. A trip such as this can be easily combined with other safari trips, to other destinations in Africa like Victoria Falls, or many other combinations; the list is endless.

I would love to help you plan your adventure and experience this wonderful area. Please contact me, Maria Ortega and I will create the ideal itinerary for you.