Sensational South Africa

VIP Meet & Greet

Welcome to Cape Town! Upon arrival you will be met at the door of the aircraft with your name on a paging board. Should your aircraft be directed to the apron and not the terminal building, you will be transported to the terminal by bus where your Colassal Aviapartner Meet & Greet representative will be waiting for you as you step off the plane.

Have your passports handy. You will be assisted through immigration, baggage, and customs. Then you will be met by a representative from Jarat Tours and transferred to The Andros Boutique Hotel (or similar), your accommodations for the next three (3) days.

**Please make sure to have your cell phone on in case either of the representatives need to contact you.

Traveler's Tip

You will find many ATM machines in the Arrivals area of the Cape Town airport. This is a great place to get some local "Rand" cash! (eg: R3000 = $150)

About Cape Town

Cape Town, a vibrant city situated on South Africa's southwestern tip, is renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, notably Table Mountain's dramatic backdrop. The city's diverse cultural influences are reflected in its architecture, cuisine, and arts scene. Cape Town seamlessly blends trendy modern and old-world elegance, offering glamorous hotels, world-class dining, and stunning vistas alongside dynamic suburbs and vibrant nightlife. The city's Malay and African heritage is evident in its cuisine, traditions, and entertainment, while its architecture displays a strong Dutch, German, and English influence. Contemporary art is showcased in various galleries and modern boutique hotels, and wine bars and brandy tasting lounges cater to the fashionable set. Cape Town also provides a mix of outdoor activities, from hiking and surfing to exploring beautiful beaches, and boasts a rich history, including significant sites related to the apartheid era.

South Africa: Introduction

South Africa is famous for its incredible diversity, stunning landscapes, and rich culture. It is one of the great cultural meeting points of the African continent. This fact has been obscured by decades of racial segregation but is becoming increasingly apparent, especially in the country’s great cities. With its myriad of cultures and extreme disparities in wealth, South Africa is not an easy country to understand at first. After nearly two decades of non-racial democracy, the country is still searching for its identity and trying to heal the wounds from its troubled past. As you immerse yourself in its culture, you will quickly learn that South Africa truly is a country like no other—a place of striking beauty, stark contrasts, and exceptionally friendly, kind, and spirited people.

Geography

South Africa is the 25th largest country in the world, bordered by Namibia, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Mozambique, Swaziland, and Lesotho. Also, it has an extensive coastline bordered in the west by the Atlantic Ocean and to the south and southeast by the Indian Ocean. South Africa covers an area of approximately 470,900 square miles, making it roughly twice the size of France or three times the size of Germany. The country comprises nine provinces, which all vary substantially in several respects. The interior consists mainly of a flat plateau (rising from about 3,280 feet to 6,889 feet above sea level), and the areas next to the coast extend from 2,624 feet to sea level.

Situated on the southwestern coast, the Western Cape Province is home to the country’s oldest city and legislative capital, Cape Town (established in 1652). Vineyards thrive in the mild Mediterranean climate of the province, and white sandy beaches beckon tourists. Moving north to the Northern Cape, the surroundings become increasingly arid and sparsely populated, with broad and seemingly never-ending horizons. Over to the North West province, the landscape is dominated by grassland with a few hardy trees dotted about. The massive casino complex Sun City's evocative ‘lost city’ theme can also be found in this province. Situated almost precisely in the center of South Africa is the Free State province, where the judicial capital Bloemfontein can be seen, amongst a succession of flat plains. Moving south, one encounters the rugged coast of the Eastern Cape, also home to Tiffindell (the country’s only snow skiing resort). The Eastern Cape is also a hub for the automotive manufacturing industry, with access to harbors in Port Elizabeth and East London. Further north along the coast, KwaZulu-Natal province looms large. The tropical climate and abundant rainfall make the landscape lush and verdant. Inland from there, the rocky and mountainous Mpumalanga province beckons; a mainly agricultural area. Some of the oldest rocks on Earth may even be found in this area. Limpopo's northernmost province shares its name with the river that snakes and winds, forming the border between South Africa and its neighbors. The Kruger National Park can also be visited here to see the Big 5. Then there is the province of Gauteng, the most densely populated and urbanized area in South Africa. Pretoria, the administrative capital, and Johannesburg are the two most significant settlements in the province, which has the biggest population out of all the areas, even though it is, in fact, the smallest.

Demographics

The total population of South Africa is around 57 million, with the Gauteng province being the most populated (24% of the population lives here). KwaZulu-Natal is the next most populated province (18%), followed by the Eastern Cape (13%) and the Western Cape (11%). Gauteng (Johannesburg, Pretoria) and Western Cape (Cape Town) often stand out as the most developed provinces and enjoy the highest average household income levels. The Eastern Cape and Limpopo provinces are the poorest, with the lowest average household income.

Around 68% of South Africans live in urban areas. This figure constantly grows as people migrate from rural areas to cities for opportunities. Many fairly densely populated areas remain in rural and unindustrialized parts of the country. This is a lingering legacy of centuries of racial discrimination and segregation of the Apartheid-era government. Former Native Reserves and homelands/Bantustans were intended to segregate South Africa’s black population from ‘whites-only’ urban areas. The former Transkei and Ciskei homelands in the Eastern Cape are examples.

Ethnicity

Nelson Mandela referred to South Africa as the “Rainbow Nation” because of its racial diversity. The population of South Africa is one of the most complex and diverse in the world. Most South Africans classify themselves as Black African (79%). This population group, however, is not culturally or linguistically homogeneous. Major ethnic groups include the Zulu, Xhosa, Basotho (South Sotho), Bapedi (North Sotho), Venda, Tswana, Tsonga, Swazi, Khoikhoi, San people, and Ndebele, all of whom speak predominantly Bantu languages.

The Colored population comprises 8.8% of South Africa’s population, mainly in the Cape region. Colored is a term used for people of mixed racial descent in South Africa. Although many visitors might view the term as being politically incorrect, in South Africa, it is not a derogatory term and is not offensive. Colored people in South Africa descend from a combination of ethnic backgrounds, namely Indonesian, Malaysian, Indian, Malagasy, and Asian blood, the indigenous Khoisan (the Cape’s first inhabitants), white settlers, and black Africans.

Whites in South Africa comprise 8.4% of the population and are predominantly descendants of Dutch, German, French Huguenots, British, and other European settlers. Culturally and linguistically, they are divided into two groups, the Boers, who speak Afrikaans, and English-speaking groups, who are descended mainly from the British.

Indian South Africans/Asians comprise 2.5% of the total population. The majority of the Indian/Asian population are descendants from India, many of them descended from indentured workers brought in the nineteenth century to work on the sugar plantations of the eastern coastal area, then known as Natal (now known as KwaZulu-Natal).

Economy

South Africa has the second-largest economy in Africa (Nigeria has the largest) and the 41st-largest in the world. It is the only African country to be part of the G-20. Unlike most other African economies, which still rely heavily on mining and agriculture, South Africa is relatively diversified. The service, manufacturing, financial, and retail sectors comprise about half of GDP output. Mining and agriculture combined contribute less than 8%.

South Africa is considered a relatively industrialized nation, and based on GDP per capita, South Africa is classified as an upper-middle income economy by the World Bank. This, however, is incredibly misleading, as wealth distribution in the country is exceptionally skewed, and unemployment and poverty are rife. The unemployment rate is 27%, and thirty million people, or one out of every two, live below the poverty line. South Africa has the highest Gini coefficient in the world, meaning it has the most uneven Income distribution of any other country. Wealth is very much defined by racial groups, with White and Indian South Africans experiencing the highest levels of income, and Colored and Black South Africans bearing the brunt of unemployment and poverty.

The high levels of inequality are a result of the cruel and unjust apartheid-era government policies. However, the current government’s substandard education systems, rampant corruption from the highest levels, and bad economic policies have done little to alleviate the current inequality gap.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner tonight, on your own account, at the hotel or a local restaurant.
See the Cape Town restaurant recommendations attached to your itinerary.

Restaurant Recommendations for Cape Town

The Western Cape

South Africa's Western Cape is a captivating destination, its allure stemming from a rich tapestry of experiences catering to various interests. The renowned Winelands' picturesque vineyards and world-class wines offer a veritable paradise for those who delight in culinary pleasures, and the coastal regions tantalize taste buds with the freshest seafood imaginable. Local markets brim with a colorful array of produce, artisanal cheeses, and other delicacies, showcasing the region's bounty. Nature enthusiasts will be surrounded by the dramatic landscapes, from majestic mountains to the awe-inspiring spectacle of whale watching along the coast. The underwater world beckons with vibrant kelp forests teeming with marine life, inviting divers to discover their hidden wonders. Adventure seekers will find their hearts racing with a plethora of exhilarating activities. Paragliding offers a bird's-eye view of the breathtaking scenery, while surfers can ride the waves along the rugged coastline. The more daring can even embark on a thrilling shark cage diving experience, coming face-to-face with these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. Culture buffs will be captivated by the region's rich history. From Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain to Walker Bay's Klipgat Cave, there is no shortage of cultural experiences to enjoy.

Cape Point & Peninsula Tour - Full Day

Today, you will experience the highlights of the Cape Peninsula in a way only Escape & Explore can do! Embrace the ocean and the great outdoors in this unique and spectacular location to explore one of the most unique marine habitats in the world.

After meeting your guide, you'll start the day by heading towards the Peninsula, stopping in Kalk Bay for a coffee in a one of the popular bakeries/coffee shops. Walk through this very quaint old holiday town filled with antique shops, galleries, craftsman, and vendors shouting as you go. Kalk Bay is loved for its bohemian vibe and fabulous old-style architecture surrounding the working harbor at its heart. As a working fishing community, the bay is filled with brightly colored boats, some noisy seals, and even louder ladies hard at work processing the day's catch! Take a look around the boatyard, watch the fisherman bringing their day’s catch in, or throw a line over the harbor wall with the locals. Seals frequent the safe waters, and out to sea, you could be lucky to spot pods of dolphins and whales cruising past. Explore the galleries and enjoy the mix of locally produced street art along the sidewalk. Be sure to take a walk down the side alleys for some unexpected finds.

From here, you will drive along the coast towards historical Simon's Town, where you will learn more about penguins in their natural habitat. Your penguin conservationist will take you on an educational and enlightening penguin walk on the walkways bordering the penguin sanctuary. Leave the main breeding areas beneath the busy walkways to search for your own rogue penguins - a splinter colony hidden in lesser-known coves loved by the locals. The thriving penguin colonies on the outskirts of Simon’s Town are drawcards for visitors to this part of the Peninsula. Enjoy discovering these adorable animals. Your guide will also tell you more about the rich history surrounding this naval town.

Continue on to the Cape of Good Hope. The Cape Point Nature Reserve is filled with adventure, wildlife and captivating historical stories around the Cape of Storms, with shipwrecks and legends enchanting this renowned area. Start your journey along one of the lesser travelled roads to search for this region's unique Cape Five – ostrich, baboons, bontebok, tortoises and mountain zebra – while enjoying the beautiful views and Cape flora and fauna. Next, you’ll explore further afield and perhaps enjoy a light hike to one of the deserted white beaches or enjoy a short walk along the coastline learning about the fynbos, habitat and biodiversity of the wildlife in the area. All the while your guide will bring to life the rich history behind the area and perhaps tell a story or two about the mythical ghost ship haunting the southern seas.

After a fabulous lunch midday, you'll explore more of this magical area with a visit to the local Noordhoek Farm Village. Here you can explore the food hub of the south peninsula where you’ll find artisan breads freshly baked daily from the Foodbarn Deli, handcrafted ice cream at Kristen’s Kick-Ass Ice Cream using the finest natural ingredients, a coffee roastery where coffee beans from all over Africa are ground together, and a raw juice bar. Browse the local craft shops and enjoy a sweet treat before heading back towards the city, with a stunning 2 hour drive around Chapman's Peak...in a chauffeured vintage motorbike with sidecar!

To make sure the experience is extra special, you will be suited up in very cool retro leather jackets, goggles, helmets as well as a complimentary bandana. Once you experience all 114 curves of Chapman's Peak, you'll agree it's quite possibly one of the most beautiful 5.5 miles you’ve ever experienced. Your Cape Peninsula Adventure will end with early evening drinks in one of the favorite local hangouts in the Noordhoek Area.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner tonight, on your own account, at the hotel or one of Cape Town's exquisite restaurants!

Cape Town Art Tour with Talita Swarts (9:00 a.m.)

Today, at 9:00 a.m., esteemed art expert Talita Swarts will give you an inside tour of two Cape Town art spots starting at the Ellerman House and continuing to the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art. The Ellerman House in Cape Town has one of the most important collections of South African art displayed throughout the property. The privately owned collection of almost 1000 works represent the cultural shift that South African art made from the mid 18th century to the present. The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art is the largest museum of contemporary African art in the world, housed in a unique building - a converted, nearly 200 feet tall historic grain silo. 

About Your Guide: Talita Swarts

Talita Swarts is an award-winning South African artist, art advisor, and educator in Cape Town. With a BA and MA in Fine Arts from the University of Pretoria, her journey in the art world began with national recognition as the 2003 Sasol New Signatures Art Competition winner. Since then, she has exhibited her work locally and internationally, with pieces held in prominent collections.

As the founder and CEO of ARTROUTE, Talita curates exclusive, specialist art tours that grant insider access to private collections, artist studios, and leading galleries—designed for collectors, curators, and art lovers who want more than the ordinary. In 2023, she launched CME Art Advising, a bespoke consulting service providing curatorial support, collection management, and strategic art advising for private and corporate clients.

Talita is also a dedicated homeschooling mom to neurodiverse children. She blends her art and psychology backgrounds into creative, empathetic education. Through her social media platform, Art Regulates, she explores how art-making can serve as a tool for problem-solving, stress relief, and meaningful self-expression.

Above all, Talita is passionate about connecting people with art in transformative ways—whether through consulting, teaching, creating, or curating memorable experiences.

Lunch

Enjoy lunch, on your own account, at one of Cape Town’s superb restaurants.

Afternoon at Leisure

After the art tour, you are free to spend the remainder of the day sightseeing, shopping, or a little of both! The driver is at your disposal until 5:00 p.m., and will and return you to your hotel to relax before dinner.

Cape Town Shopping Recommendations

Dinner

Enjoy dinner tonight, on your own account.

This morning, you will meet your driver from Jarat Tours and make the scenic, one hour drive through the winelands, to Franschhoek.

About The Cape Winelands

The Winelands dramatic mountains stand guard over a quilt of working vineyards, elegant Cape Dutch estates and quaint towns boasting top restaurants, hotels and spas. Sample some of the regions award winning wine offerings, stroll through exquisitely maintained gardens or explore art galleries and antique shops in the oak lined streets of the local towns. The buzzing university village of Stellenbosch was named after the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel and, as the historic hub of the Winelands it is surrounded by around 200 wineries. Franschhoek, a charming town with French Hugenot heritage is arguably the culinary headquarters of the country and home to the creative genius of a number of resident chefs. Framed by a majestic backdrop of the Helderberg Mountains, Paarl lies peacefully nestled amongst vineyards laden with the harvest's finest offerings. Enjoy gourmet meals lovingly prepared by experienced chefs and served in lush gardens, or stylish restaurants. Sample local wines and explore the cellars of well-established wine farms. The Winelands is all about stepping back from the hectic pace of modern living and appreciating the finer things in life in some of the most gorgeous and tranquil locations this country has to offer.

Lunch

Restaurant Recommendations for Stellenbosch & Franschhoek

Dinner

The Avondrood does not have a dinner service, so please enjoy dinner tonight, on your own account, at a local restaurant. Please see the restaurant recommendations for Franschhoek, included with your itinerary, or speak to someone at guest services and they will be happy to make a recommendation and assist with booking a reservation.

Winelands Art & Wine Tour with Dominic Dear

Discover the best boutique wine farms and galleries in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek with Dominic Dear!

You'll start the day with a scenic drive to the Dylan Lewis sculpture garden. Widely recognized as one of the world’s foremost sculptors of the animal form, Dylan Lewis has created a magnificent seventeen acre garden to showcase more than 60 of his sculptures. Each one is carefully sited along a mile of paths that we will follow, allowing you to experience the full impact of the garden.

After meandering through the garden, you'll pause for some much-needed coffee at the Old Storeroom. This little café located within the gardens is perfect for a quick stop before continuing the tour.

The next gallery stop will be Tokara, at the crest of the Helshoogte pass. The panoramic views and strikingly beautiful steep-sloping vineyards are the backdrop for the art. Their winery entrance houses a gallery of unique artwork and tapestries. From the winery you will take a short walk through the olive groves to the sculpture garden located at the delicatessen where you'll stop for lunch, on your own account.

On route you will visit three of the following wine farms: Oldenberg, Klein Zalze, Hartenberg, Lynx and Plasir de Merle. For this tour your guide has specially selected exclusive, lesser known, but always spectacular farms on the route between Stellenbosch and Franschhoek. Some are small family-owned boutique cellars and others have state of the art facilities on showpiece estates. By combining the best of both, we take you on a unique wine experience.

Stop for afternoon snacks at Bartinney, which is situated on the slopes of Helshoogte Pass and overlooks the picturesque Banghoek Valley in Stellenbosch.

About Dominic Dear, Art Trip Franschhoek

Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden

Dylan Lewis was born in 1964 and raised in an artistic family in South Africa. His father was an accomplished sculptor, his mother and grandmother were painters, and two great-grandfathers were an architect and cabinetmaker, respectively. Lewis initially followed the family tradition, beginning his career as a painter, but later turned to sculpture. Widely recognized as one of the world’s foremost sculptors of the animal form, he initially focused on the big cats; in recent years, he has used the human figure to explore our relationship with our inner wilderness. His international career spans two decades and includes exhibitions in Paris, Sydney, Toronto, Houston, and San Francisco and numerous one-man exhibitions in London, where he is among the few living artists to have held solo auctions at Christie’s London.

Located between two worlds, one wild and one tamed, the Dylan Lewis Sculpture Garden borders the manicured suburbs of Stellenbosch and a rugged mountain wilderness where leopards still roam. The project began in 2009 when Lewis hired an excavator to create a level play area for his children behind their house on the farm and began creating what would become a 17.5-acre sculpture garden. In this garden of private myth, the artist explores the Jungian notion of ‘the wilderness within.’ More than 60 sculptures constituting a comprehensive record of his artistic development thus far have been carefully sited along 2.5 miles of paths.

Dinner

Enjoy dinner tonight, on your own account, at a local restaurant. Refer to the restaurant recommendations, or Dominic would be happy to suggest some of his favorites.

After breakfast and a leisurely morning, you will be picked up by your driver from Hermanus Shuttle and transferred through a beautiful scenic drive to Stanford Village.

Welcome to Stanford Village

The village of Stanford was founded in 1857 and named after its founder, Sir Robert Stanford who owned the original farm. Situated in the heart of the Overberg, Stanford is known for its beautifully preserved and renovated Cape Victorian and Edwardian styled houses and buildings. The village as a whole was declared a Heritage Site and in 1992 the Stanford Conservation Trust was formed to ensure the protection and conservation of the environment and heritage resources in and around Stanford. The work of the Trust ensured that Stanford remains the 3rd most preserved village in the Western Cape.

Located on the banks of the Klein River, Stanford is known to host over 200 different bird species of which 30 are endemic to South Africa. Some of the top attractions of Stanford include river cruises on the Klein River, bird watching, kayaking and beer and wine tasting at the local wine estates and Birkenhead Brewery.

The village is also renowned for its Stanford Food Heroes, a small group of culinary artisans that aims to increase community access to fresh, organic and sustainably grown produce. Their array of locally produced and sourced products can be purchased at the local morning markets that line the Stanford Events calendar.

During your days in Stanford, you will experience a variety activities this community has to offer. These include:
Grootbos Florilegium 4x4 Botanical Safari, an unforgettable afternoon with Jero Revett, a guided walk in Walker Bay Nature Reserve, Big 5 Marine Safari, and the most delicious lunch at Madre restaurant!

Grootbos Florilegium Half Day Tour

On this tour you'll experience a 4 x 4 botanical safari on the Grootbos Reserve, followed by a guided tour of the Hannarie Wenhold Botanical Art Gallery to witness the Grootbos Florilegium. End the experience with a delicious 3-course botanical lunch at Bellavista Country Place while enjoying breathtaking views of the fynbos and Walker Bay.

A 4x4 botanical safari in an open-top Land Rover will allow you soak up the serenity in shaded glades, and feel the wind in your hair as you drive past fields of flowers and get perspective looking down from mountain peaks. Keep still, listen intently and you’ll be amazed at the things you learn on a botanical safari. You'll touch, smell, and see the enchanting narrative of fynbos and forest come to life while discovering over 900 plant species recorded on a pristine 8650 acres of wilderness. Learn how a sunbird’s beak fits perfectly into a flower, why the honey the bees produce here is completely unique, and how important fires in the fynbos are for bringing forth new life. Explore the richest temperate flora in the world on the Grootbos reserve and discover its unique flora and fauna. Then visit the botanical art gallery where the intricate narratives of the fynbos environment are depicted in the detailed botanical artworks of the Grootbos Florilegium, a unique collection of botanical illustrations by a collaboration of local and international artists. The collection depicts the rare, endangered, and charismatic plants found on the Grootbos reserve and surrounding regions. What makes these artworks even more distinctive is the inclusion of insects, pollinators, and other creatures associated with the flora. Finally, enjoy a 3-course lunch with unparalleled views of the fynbos-rich landscape as you dine in the heart of the Cape Floral Kingdom at Bellavista Country Place.

Jero Revett Experience

As a young boy, Jero Revett entertained himself in rock & tidal pools around False Bay. He would dive all day, playing with fish & sandsharks, starfish & urchins, but the creature that grabbed his full attention was the octopus.

As an adult, he is still fascinated with the octopus & and still disappears for hours in search for them. His Italian connection exposed him to the value they contribute to the kitchen, feeding friends & family! He takes great pleasure in the hunt, which is a skill honed over many years. They are a food source & his policy is "we eat from the sea what she offers us on the day"! Jero only takes what he needs and gives back to the ocean what he doesn't use. Nothing is wasted!

Today, in addition to being an artist in the kitchen, he also practices the Japanese ancient art of printing called Gyotaku (Gyo=fish, taku=rubbing), Jero creates artworks from the fish he catches, using the ink from the octopus, chokka and cuttlefish. He pays homage to the octopus for bringing him immense satisfaction through the hunt, the culinary experience and the creative twist!

During your experience with Jero, you will learn how to make (and enjoy eating) delectable seafood-inspired meals including octopus carpaccio and grilled yellowtail and 'pane di mare'. Each dish is paired with a wine from a local vineyard, Strandveld Winery. While you enjoy the delicious food and wine, you will have the opportunity to do a little shopping while you peruse his amazing artwork!

Madre (Lunch)

At Madre you will find a country kitchen producing a delicious array of freshly prepared foods for the soul. Everything is fresh and nothing comes out of a tin. Local fish is brought in daily and gets flaked at the shop. They support only local businesses and suppliers, and most of their veggies and herbs are out of their garden. Madre, the head chef, has been in the food and restaurant industry for 20 years, and her reputation speaks for itself. This quaint restaurant, located in the heart of Stanford, was listed as one of the 250 best restaurants in South Africa, according to "Eat Out" magazine. Owners Madre and her husband Morne are perfect hosts and will make you feel right at home.

To make a reservation (recommended), you can send a WhatsApp to +27 82 901 4254.
11 Queen Victoria Street, Stanford

Walker Bay Nature Reserve Guided Walk

Walker Bay Nature Reserve lies on the south-western Cape coast, just east of Hermanus. The reserve comprises five coastal areas lying between Hermanus and Die Dam near Struisbaai. The largest area, known as Walker Bay, stretches from the Klein River estuary to De Kelders at Gansbaai. This section is about 1500 acres in size and has a coastline of 10 miles featuring a long beach, known as Die Plaat, with white sands and rocky limestone outcrops to the east. Immediately north-west of the reserve lies the scenic Klein River lagoon which, at times, flows into the sea.

There are significant records of Middle Stone Age people (from about 85 000 to 65 000 years ago) occupying the Klipgat Cave in the eastern section of the reserve. There is also evidence that during the Late Stone Age (about 2 000 years ago), Khoisan people inhabited this site and lived off the plants, fish, shellfish and game in the area. Lowland coastal fynbos, also known as strandveld, is the main type of vegetation and is characterized by species such as bietou, blombos, sour fig and waxberry.

Walker Bay is a picturesque, pristine reserve with an abundance of coastal and marine life. It is known as one of the best spots in South Africa to do land-based whale watching. Every year, hundreds of southern right whales gather in the sheltered bay to breed and calve their young. Dolphins throughout the year!

Whale Watching (Big 5 Marine Safari)

Please note, whale watching is seasonal so this activity will depend on the time of year your trip is scheduled for.

Today you set off for a Marine Safari in Gansbaai, around the world famous Dyer Island, to enjoy an incredible experience viewing the Southern Right Whales. Every year from June to November, the Southern Right whales arrive to mate and calve. You may witness mating displays, breaching, tail slapping, spy-hopping and more! You may also see Bryde’s whales, Humpback whales, the elusive humpback dolphin, Common Dolphin, an incredible array of seabirds, African Penguin and guaranteed sightings of Cape Fur Seals. As you cruise down the famous Shark Alley you might also see a Great White Shark or two. On board there will also be a Marine Biologist to answer any questions.

Restaurant Recommendations in Stanford

We have compiled a list of the following drivers who can assist in getting you around the Stanford, South Africa area

Hermanus Shuttle (to/from Stanford)
M: +27-67-044-0444 (WhatsApp)

Aniza (Stanford Driver)
M: +27 83 561 7387 (WhatsApp)

Quinton (Stanford Driver):
M: +27 84 455 9019 (WhatsApp)

Additional Stanford Village Activities

While in Stanford you will want to explore this quaint riverside village! You might enjoy visits to the local farmers market on Saturdays, antique shops, boutiques and art markets. The scenic coast town of Hermanus is perfect for beach combing or relaxing in the sun and they have a fabulous Saturday Market!

A trip down the Klein River (weather permitting) on the African Queen offers breathtaking views of the Klein River Mountains, and more than 127 kinds of birds as well as a variety of salt and fresh water fish, otters, terrapins and more.

After all that adventure, find yourself sampling the wine of the Hemel-en-Aarde Valley outside Hermanus -- some of the best South Africa has to offer. Creation Wines offers a brilliant food and wine pairing menu as well as the option to blend your own vino. Stop for cheese or beer at the local breweries or cheese makers along the way.

Agteros (Farewell Dinner)

Celebrate your final night in South Africa with a fantastic dinner at Agteros!

This charming restaurant is nestled at the end of the road in Stanford, emphasizing its significance as a hidden gem for travelers and locals. The name "Agteros" reflects the owner's personal journey of perseverance and eventual success, inspired by the Afrikaans proverb "Agteros kom ook in die kraal" (The last ox also gets to the kraal).

Agteros celebrates South African Heritage food with a modern twist, providing a memorable culinary experience that connects guests to local culture and flavors. It offers an inviting and intimate Afrikaans atmosphere with a charming terrace garden overlooking the stunning views of the Kleinrivier mountains. From duck starters and Elan and Yellowtail mains, to decadent desserts like chocolate caramel cake, every dish is a taste sensation worth savoring. Renowned local Chef Janine van der Nest leads the culinary team, ensuring each dish is prepared with love and effort.

20 Queen Victoria St
T: +27 73 367 6371

Departure Details

Today, your driver from Hermanus Shuttle will pick you up and take you to the Cape Town International Airport. The drive takes about two hours.

Once you arrive at the airport, there will be luggage porters available outside if needed. They will assist you with your luggage and escort you to the counter for check-in.

Flights back to the U.S. are generally in the evening so you will have time to relax and enjoy Rivergate Farm or perhaps a little shopping and lunch in Stanford.

Helpful Information for Arrival in the US

Upon arrival in the U.S., if you have a connecting flight, you must collect your bags from baggage claim and recheck them.

*DUTY FREE ITEMS: Any liquid duty-free items you may have purchased in Cape Town, will need to be PUT IN YOUR CHECKED LUGGAGE BEFORE LEAVING THE BAGGAGE CLAIM AREA! If any liquids are in your carry-on bag they will be confiscated when you go back through security. This includes water or any other bottled drinks/alcohol.

Please be aware that the United States has restrictions on the importation of certain goods from South Africa, including but not limited to biltong, plant seeds, and fresh fruit.

After you exit baggage claim, proceed to the "Nothing to Declare" entrance. Here you will "recheck" your luggage by handing it to the assistant at the luggage carousel. Have your passport and boarding pass handy and make your way through the security area.