Experience the Thrill of South Africa’s Wild Heart

Lions, Leopards, Rhinos, Elephants, and CAPE Buffalo

May 29 – June 9, 2026

Depart the USA on May 28 and return to the USA on June 10, 2026

12 days / 11 nights

Don’t just tour Africa, Make a positive impact in Africa

Every Beatrice Bradley trip is crafted to maximize the experiences had during the trip.
The itineraries are specially made to allow time for engaging in conversation and having belly laughs with a new friend. We hope that the activities and experiences may allow you to come out of your comfort zone and to try new or unique things.
These trips are made to replicate a ‘friends get-away trip’. 

Overall Trip Highlights

• Sidecar Coastal Adventure – Climb into a vintage motorcycle sidecar and feel the thrill of the open road as you ride along the wild and rugged Cape Peninsula. With the salty Atlantic breeze on your face and dramatic cliffs and beaches at every turn, this unforgettable journey connects you to the rhythm of the sea and the spirit of adventure.

• Table Mountain Panoramas – Soar to the top of Cape Town’s most iconic landmark aboard a scenic cableway. At the summit of Table Mountain, drink in 360-degree views of the bustling city, endless ocean, and distant mountain ranges—an awe-inspiring moment high above the world.

• Playful Penguins at Boulders Beach – Step onto the soft sand of Boulders Beach to meet a charming colony of African penguins. Watch these adorable, tuxedoed birds waddle, swim, and nest among the rocks—a rare and heartwarming wildlife experience you’ll never forget.

• Big Five Safari at Buffelsdrift – Embark on exhilarating game drives through Buffelsdrift Game Lodge, where the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo—roam the untamed Karoo landscape. Surrounded by raw beauty and wildlife at every turn, you’ll feel the pulse of Africa come alive.

• Sundowners in the Bush – End your day in true safari style: savoring a refreshing drink in the African bush as the sky ignites in fiery sunset hues. With wildlife grazing nearby and the horizon glowing gold, this magical moment is the epitome of African romance.

• Luxury Escape at Gondwana Reserve – Stay at the serene and sophisticated Gondwana Private Game Reserve, nestled amid rolling hills and lush fynbos. From your elegant lodge, watch zebras and antelope wander just outside your door—a perfect blend of comfort, luxury, and nature.

• Ocean Safari Expedition – Set sail on the sparkling waters of the Southern Ocean in search of marine wonders. Watch dolphins dance alongside the boat, seals lounge on rocky outcrops, and—if in season—witness magnificent whales breaching the waves in a breathtaking display.

• Elephant Encounter – Come face-to-face with Africa’s gentle giants during an intimate elephant experience. Walk alongside these magnificent creatures, feeling their quiet strength and intelligence as you learn about their lives and conservation—an unforgettable, soulful connection.

• Dawn with the Meerkats – Rise early to greet the day with the charismatic meerkats of the Karoo. As the sun peeks over the horizon, watch these delightful little sentinels emerge from their burrows, stand tall on their hind legs, and welcome the morning in a uniquely African spectacle.

ITINERARY IS SUBJECT TO CHANGE BASED UPON BEST GAME VIEWING LOCATIONS – 

Pre-Day: Group Departure from Atlanta (ATL) to Cape Town (CPT)

• Call us for personalized travel support: 763-784-8291 – We’ll be with you every step of the way!

• Arrive at Atlanta (ATL) no later than 6:00 PM to join the group for check-in and boarding. GROUP FLIGHT NUMBER to TBD.

• Board the international Delta flight to Cape Town, South Africa (CPT).

• Travel with your hosts on the group flight – this is the flight our trip leaders will be on, and the flight number will be shared as soon as it is booked.

• This is an overnight flight – settle in and get ready to wake up in beautiful South Africa!

Fun Fact: Cape Town sits where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet, making it one of the most biologically diverse marine regions in the world.

Days One to Three: Discover Cape Town’s Iconic Beauty and Wild Adventures (3 nights)

Your extraordinary journey begins the moment you arrive in Cape Town, a city where every corner tells a story of untamed beauty and rich history. Stepping off the plane at Cape Town International Airport (CPT), you are greeted by the fresh, salty air of the Atlantic Ocean, the whispers of ancient lands, and the promise of a once-in-a-lifetime adventure. A private shuttle will transport you to your stylish retreat: the Kloof Street Hotel, a perfect blend of modern luxury and vibrant Cape Town charm. Here, you’ll be swept into a city where cultures, landscapes, and stories merge—setting the stage for an unforgettable escape.

Highlights:

• Motorcycle Sidecar Peninsula Tour: Hold tight as you cruise along the rugged coast, the breeze rushing past as you explore the Cape Peninsula from the unique vantage of a sidecar. This exhilarating ride takes you through historic landscapes where Dutch explorers once sailed into the unknown, offering a thrilling view of Africa’s wild side.

• Chapman’s Peak Drive: As you wind along one of the world’s most iconic coastal roads, Chapman’s Peak Drive, you’ll feel the power of nature. The cliffs rise sharply above you, while the turquoise waters below reflect the beauty that has captivated travelers for centuries. This road, first constructed in the 1920s, carries the echoes of early pioneers who braved the fierce Atlantic winds to carve this path.

• Penguin Experience: Next, visit the beloved Boulders Beach where a colony of African penguins has made their home. These charming creatures, once a rare sight, now thrive in this protected haven—an experience that ties together the wild beauty of Africa with the wonder of nature.

• Table Mountain Cableway: Ascend to the top of the legendary Table Mountain, a flat-topped sentinel that has watched over Cape Town for millennia. The cableway ride offers panoramic views of the city, from the colorful Bo-Kaap district to the vast expanse of the Cape Flats. The mountain, named by early Portuguese explorers, is an iconic symbol of the city and has a rich history that includes ancient San rock paintings and myths about its creation.

• Waterfront Shopping: As the sun begins to set, head to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, a place where the past meets the present. Once a bustling dockyard, the Waterfront is now a hub of luxury shopping, dining, and culture. Stroll through the cobblestone streets where ships once unloaded their goods, now transformed into charming boutiques and lively markets. With the Table Bay harbor at your back and the majestic Table Mountain in front, it’s the perfect spot to reflect on the incredible experiences of the day.

Fun Fact: The V&A Waterfront is named after Queen Victoria and her son Prince Alfred, who visited in 1860. It’s one of the oldest working harbors in the Southern Hemisphere, where history is woven into every stone and every wave that laps at the docks.

Days Four and Five: Immersed in the Wild Heart of South Africa (2 nights)

Days Six and Seven: Into the Wild Karoo – Safari Dreams Come Alive (2 nights)

Leaving the sparkling coastline behind, you’ll journey by private coach into the heart of the rugged Klein Karoo, a land of wide skies, ancient mountains, and untamed beauty. On the way, you’ll stop in the charming town of Barrydale, known for its colorful shops, cozy cafés, and warm Karoo hospitality — the perfect spot to savor a leisurely lunch and take in the quaint atmosphere.

By late afternoon, you’ll arrive at Gondwana Private Game Reserve, a luxury safari destination nestled at the foot of the Outeniqua Mountains. Here, the quiet of the bush and the thrill of the wild set the stage for an unforgettable safari experience.

Highlights:

• Big Five Game Drives: Twice daily, set out in open vehicles with expert guides in search of Africa’s most legendary animals — lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo — roaming freely across the vast landscape.

• Sundowners in the Bush: As dusk falls, enjoy a traditional safari ritual: a refreshing drink at a scenic spot while watching the African sun melt into the horizon.

• Scenic Drive to Plettenbery Bay: On Day Eight, bid farewell to the Karoo and continue your journey with a picturesque 1.5-hour drive to Plettenberg Bay.

Fun Fact: Gondwana Game Reserve is a Big Five Fynbos reserve within the critically endangered Cape Floral Kingdom, offering a unique opportunity to experience diverse wildlife in a spectacular setting.

Check out the lodge here: gondwanagr.co.za

Days Seven and Eight: Coastal Wonders – Ocean & Elephants (2 nights)

Leaving the inland bush behind, you’ll arrive at the dazzling coast of Plettenberg Bay, a seaside paradise famed for its golden beaches, lush indigenous forests, and spectacular ocean views. You’ll settle into the stylish and contemporary Plett Quarter Hotel, perfectly situated to immerse yourself in the charm and beauty of the Garden Route.

Here, the rhythm of the ocean and the call of the wild blend to create a truly unforgettable experience.

Highlights:

• Ocean Safari: Take to the sea on an exhilarating ocean safari, where you’ll watch dolphins play alongside the boat, see curious seals basking on the rocks, and — in season — marvel at the sight of whales breaching against the horizon.

• Elephant Experience: Meet Africa’s gentle giants in an intimate encounter that lets you walk with, feed, and even touch these magnificent creatures, learning about their remarkable behavior and intelligence.

• Explore the Area: Stroll along Plettenberg Bay’s pristine beaches, enjoy the charming cafés and boutiques of the village, or simply take in the breathtaking coastal scenery where mountains meet the sea.

Fun Fact: The forests around Plettenberg Bay are home to some of the last remaining Knysna elephants — a symbol of the area’s rich natural heritage and resilience.

Check out the hotel here: The Plett Quarter Hotel

Day Twelve: Friends Make the Journey

As your unforgettable African adventure comes to a close, you and your newfound friends board the overnight flight home — hearts full, cameras full, and minds brimming with memories. Together you’ll reminisce about the incredible experiences shared: the roar of lions at dusk, the playful splash of dolphins, the quiet awe of walking beside elephants, and the laughter over starlit dinners.

This journey was more than just a trip — it was a chance to connect with extraordinary women, form lasting friendships, and discover the wild beauty of Africa in a way that will stay with you forever.

Highlights:

• Arrival in Atlanta: Exact timing will be shared when hosts book hopper and international flights.

• Flight Arrangements: Schedule your return flights after noon to allow time for customs and connections.

• Support Team: Lindsay, Mercy, and Connie are here for you — call anytime at 763-784-8291 for help or questions.

The bonds forged on this journey — through safaris, sunsets, and shared wonder — will last a lifetime, making every moment truly unforgettable.

Note: This itinerary is a general guide to what we will be doing, seeing, and experiencing. The final, confirmed version will be provided approximately two weeks prior to departure. Some accommodations, tours, or restaurants may be adjusted to ensure the best possible experience, always of equal or higher quality.