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The Award-Winning Tour Specialist

Christmas in South Africa

16 days Go Beyond Group Tour

Celebrating 25 Years of tour excellence

Christmas in South Africa

Enjoy Christmas at the height of summer with a once-in-a-lifetime journey through South Africa's highlights! Witness the incredible wildlife of the Kruger – where you'll spend a magical Christmas Eve and Day, traverse the scenic Garden Route with its picturesque coastline and charming towns, to finally immerse yourself in the cosmopolitan allure of Cape Town. This unforgettable adventure showcases the best of South Africa’s diverse landscapes and experiences with a festive twist.
  • Included Meals
    Breakfasts: 13 , Lunches: 11 , Dinners: 10
  • Flights
    International flights and current taxes
  • Accommodation
    13 nights in 3/4 star accommodation
  • Group Tour
    Max Group Size: 18
  • Physical Rating 1
    A reasonable level of fitness is required but it's more about spending time on your feet rather than covering large distances. You'll be getting on and off coaches and boats, walking around the sights and climbing some steps.
    Learn More
    Walking, some steps and time on your feet.
OFFER
Go Beyond Group Tour
16 DAYS
From $14,730PP
Johannesburg (1N) - Panorama Route (1N) - Greater Kruger National Park (3N) - Gqeberha (1N) - Knysna (2N) - Cape Town (5N)
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Tour Highlights

Our Christmas in South Africa tour will see you exploring the most iconic sites, delving into deep-rooted culture and dining on delicious cuisine and thoroughly researched to bring you a range of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, many of which are entirely exclusive to us.

Please note that itinerary displayed is for 2025-2026 departures. For 2024 itinerary please refer to the trip dossier. 

Day by Day Itinerary

Johannesburg (1N) - Panorama Route (1N) - Greater Kruger National Park (3N) - Gqeberha (1N) - Knysna (2N) - Cape Town (5N)
  • Days 1-2
    Fly to Johannesburg
    Dinner
    Days 1-2: Fly to Johannesburg

    Upon your arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport, you will be met and transferred to your hotel where you have the rest of the day at leisure.

    Dinner
  • Day 3
    Mpumalanga
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Day 3: Mpumalanga

    Following breakfast, explore the Apartheid Museum before embarking on a journey to the Mpumalanga Panorama Route region. This enchanting and scenic area, embraced by the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, waterfalls, and canyons, unfolds in lush greenery during the summer season. Serving as a splendid gateway to the renowned Kruger National Park, the region awaits your check-in, leaving the remainder of the day for you to relax at your leisure.

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Day 4
    Panorama Route
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Day 4: Panorama Route

    Take a ride in the Graskop Gorge Lift, offering stunning views of the forest canopy. Continue your journey to God's Window and Bourke's Luck Potholes, a natural marvel featuring swirling pools and unique rock formations. After Three Rondavels, check in at the private game in time to partake in a dusk safari for the chance to encounter local wildlife.

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Day 5
    Greater Kruger National Park
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Day 5: Greater Kruger National Park

    Spend today on thrilling game drives, the primary means of exploring the park, providing a close encounter with the animals. At dinner engage in an African drumming class where you'll not only master traditional beats but also delve into the rich cultural history, discovering how stories, songs, and traditions have been passed down through the universal language of rhythm and dance.

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Day 6
    Greater Kruger National Park
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Day 6: Greater Kruger National Park

    Another day of opportunities for spotting 'The Big 5', as your expert ranger and tracker lead the way. Adept at spotting wildlife and sharing insights about the animals and their habitats, they ensure memorable and informative game drives, while contributing to the park's overall conservation efforts.

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Day 7
    Fly to Gqeberha
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Day 7: Fly to Gqeberha

    Transfer back to Johannesburg and fly to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). On arrival, transfer to your hotel in time for dinner.

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Day 8
    Garden Route
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Day 8: Garden Route

    Set out this morning on your journey to Knysna, with a captivating stop at Oudebosch Protea Farm, where you'll discover fascinating insights into the country's national flower. Continue to Tsitsikamma National Park, a protected expanse celebrated for its breath-taking coastal and forest scenery. As you travel further south, you'll reach the charming town of Knysna, renowned for its scenic lagoon, the iconic Knysna Heads, and a lively waterfront that adds vibrancy to its picturesque surroundings.

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Day 9
    Discover Knysna
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Day 9: Discover Knysna

    The standout experience today is The Featherbed Eco Experience, an enchanting journey that commences with a picturesque boat cruise across the Knysna Lagoon. Following this, a guided tractor ride elevates you to the summit of the western head, where you'll be treated to awe-inspiring views of the lagoon, ocean, and mountains. A leisurely nature walk through the coastal forest unveils the unique flora and fauna of the area, culminating in a delightful lunch amid this beautiful setting.

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Day 10
    Knysna to Cape Town
    Breakfast, Lunch
    Day 10: Knysna to Cape Town

    Today the journey from Knysna to Cape Town promises a delightful fusion of distinctive experiences and stunning landscapes. From Oudtshoorn, your exploration begins with the captivating Cango Caves, an underground marvel adorned with impressive stalactite and stalagmite formations. Subsequently, venture to an ostrich farm for a tractor tour and indulge in a delectable lunch showcasing ostrich delicacies, before continuing to Cape Town.

    Breakfast, Lunch
  • Day 11
    Cape Town
    Breakfast, Lunch
    Day 11: Cape Town

    Your adventures today take you around the highlights of Cape Town! Cruise past landmarks such as the Castle of Good Hope, Company Gardens, and Houses of Parliament before ascending Table Mountain (weather permitting) via the cableway. Lunch will be in the colourful neighbourhood, Bo-Kaap, where you get to help prepare delicious Cape cuisine, enjoying the warm spices and unique flavours.

    Breakfast, Lunch
  • Day 12
    Cape Peninsula
    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
    Day 12: Cape Peninsula

    Today starts with a sea island cruise to witness playful seals in their natural habitat. If the weather permits, embark on a breath-taking drive along Chapman's Peak, revealing sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. Explore the rugged beauty of Cape Point, the meeting point of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans, and enjoy a visit to Boulders Beach, renowned for its resident African penguin colony, offering a close-up observation of these charming creatures. Celebrate tonight with an unforgettable dinner at Gold Restaurant, an immersive and authentic African experience.

    Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
  • Day 13
    The Winelands
    Breakfast, Lunch
    Day 13: The Winelands

    Merry Christmas!! This year your Christmas Day will be filled with sunshine, gorgeous scenery and great wine, as you explore the renowned Winelands. Commencing with a drive through Stellenbosch before heading to Franschhoek. At Boschendal Wine Estate, take in the scenic vineyards and delve into its rich history, tasting exquisite wines. Stop for a delectable Christmas lunch at Rickety Bridge, where magnificent views enhance your experience.

    Breakfast, Lunch
  • Day 14
    Cape Town at leisure
    Breakfast, Dinner
    Day 14: Cape Town at leisure

    Enjoy Boxing day at leisure in Cape Town, with time to shop or explore with endless options to keep you busy in this wonderful city. Enjoy a farewell dinner at the vibrant V&A Waterfront, dining on a variety of traditional dishes in a relaxed setting.

    Breakfast, Dinner
  • Days 15-16
    Depart Cape Town
    Breakfast
    Day 15-16: Depart Cape Town

    Depart to the airport for your flight back to Australia arriving the next day.

    Breakfast
Christmas in South Africa map

2024 - Download Detailed Itinerary 2025 & 2026 - Download Detailed Itinerary

Accommodation

We draw from a wide range of hotels on our holidays, each one is chosen to suit the tour you are travelling on meaning your accommodation can range from a smart business hotel in one city to a family run guesthouse in a smaller town. Here are some examples of the type of hotel you can expect to find on this tour.

Book With Confidence

When to go

City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 16
    26
    21
  • 15
  • Johannesburg
  • 15
    26
    20
  • 125
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 16
    26
    21
  • 17
  • Johannesburg
  • 14
    25
    20
  • 90
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 14
    25
    20
  • 20
  • Johannesburg
  • 13
    24
    19
  • 91
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 12
    23
    17
  • 41
  • Johannesburg
  • 10
    21
    16
  • 54
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 9
    20
    15
  • 69
  • Johannesburg
  • 7
    19
    13
  • 13
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 8
    18
    13
  • 93
  • Johannesburg
  • 4
    16
    10
  • 9
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 7
    18
    12
  • 82
  • Johannesburg
  • 4
    17
    10
  • 4
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 8
    18
    13
  • 77
  • Johannesburg
  • 6
    19
    13
  • 6
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 9
    19
    14
  • 40
  • Johannesburg
  • 9
    23
    16
  • 27
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 11
    21
    16
  • 30
  • Johannesburg
  • 11
    24
    18
  • 72
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 13
    24
    18
  • 14
  • Johannesburg
  • 13
    24
    18
  • 117
City
Min
Average Temperate(°C)
Max
Monthly Rainfall(mm)
  • Cape Town
  • 15
    25
    20
  • 17
  • Johannesburg
  • 14
    25
    20
  • 105

Pricing & Availability

All of our tour departures include international flights and taxes in the price unless a land only option is selected

2024
  • Select Year
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Departure: All
  • Departure: All
1 Room, 2 Guests
  • 1 Room, 2 Guests
  • 1 Room, 1 Guest
    Depart AUStart Date
    Return DateEnd Date
    Price
    Availability

    Additional Price Information

    • Flight Inclusive rates only: These include airline fuel surcharge and taxes. Correct as of 1 June 2024. Please note supplements may apply if lead in economy rates are not available.
    • Customary tipping amount of approximately USD180pp (AU$268pp) is paid locally.
    • Depending on airline schedules, you may depart and/or arrive on Day 2. Extra nights' accommodation (pre or post tour) or stopovers may be required at an additional cost.
    • Flight Inclusive rates only: Based on departures from Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, Adelaide & Perth. Departures from other cities and flight upgrades available on request.
    • Price listed is based on new bookings only

    Group Tour includes

    • International flights
    • All domestic transportation
    • Most meals
    • 3 - 4* accommodation
    • Touring with guides and entrance fees

    Important Information For Your Tour

    Before Booking
    Travel Protection, Booking Conditions
    and more
    Before you go
    Passports & Visas, Travel Guides & Packing Lists, Holiday FAQ’s and more

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