The mountain, the bush and the beach
The mountain, the bush and the beach
12-day, 11-night Cape Town, safari and diving for families
The mountain, the bush and the beach
From Cape Town’s world-famous Table Mountain to the home of the Big Five at the luxurious Madikwe Game Reserve, and then on to the tropical shores of Mozambique’s Bazaruto Archipelago, family holidays just don’t get better than this.
Cape Town is South Africa’s oldest city. With its diverse cultures, its natural wonders and spectacular beauty, all in a cosmopolitan hub filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage and plenty of entertainment, it’s one of Africa’s must-visit cities.
Madikwe is a malaria-free wilderness and the fifth-largest game reserve in South Africa. It offers exceptional wildlife viewing and a sense of true remoteness. The world’s largest ever animal relocation and rehabilitation effort has established it as a sought-after Big Five reserve.
The Bazaruto Archipelago, known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean, is an important migratory area for marine megafauna. It protects the rare and endemic dugong, whale sharks, manta rays, humpback whales, dolphins and five sea turtle species.
At a Glance
Highlights
For children of all ages
Exclusive accommodation in Madikwe, Johannesburg and Mozambique
Taste some of the best wines in the world in the Cape
Endless choice of experiences around the Cape
Superb game viewing and bird watching in Madikwe
Unforgettable marine and ocean experiences in Mozambique
Cultural experiences in Madikwe and Mozambique
Wellness experiences in Mozambique
Location12-day, 11-night Cape Town, safari and diving for families
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Cape Town
Set at the south-western point of Africa and backed by the iconic Table Mountain, the bustling Mother City presents an alluring combination of drawcards.
It is South Africa’s oldest city, with a heritage going back nearly four centuries. With its diverse cultures, its natural wonders and spectacular beauty, Cape Town masterfully captures the hearts of visitors.
Powdery white beaches, highly acclaimed wine routes and beautiful mountain trails surround a cosmopolitan hub.
This diverse metropolis is filled with superb shops and restaurants, extraordinary heritage monuments, a multitude of entertainment venues, and the spectacular and famed V&A Waterfront that is spread out around the city’s working harbour.
Some highlights include the Zeitz Museum of Contemporary African Art (MOCAA); Table Mountain’s jaw-dropping views; Boulders Beach, where penguins might swim right up to you in the warm waters; the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden, where you can walk along a treetop canopy among incredible native flora or watch an open-air concert at the base of the mountain; Robben Island, where visitors can see the cell where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned for 18 years; and wine tastings in the Constantia Winelands.
Mount Nelson Hotel
The Mount Nelson is fondly referred to as “The Nellie” or the “Pink Lady”, for its iconic light pink colour. Boasting a rich history that is woven into the fabric of the Mother City, it has been captivating visitors since 1899.
Tucked away in over 3.6ha (nine acres) of flowering gardens, ancient trees and rolling lawns, this luxurious sanctuary is spread out over seven separate historic wings. Rooms are individually decorated with elegance and opulence, and are reminiscent of a bygone era. Guests enjoy magnificent views of Table Mountain, Lion’s Head and Devil’s Peak.
High Tea is synonymous with The Nellie, and a must-do for all guests. Several other curated experiences are available to guests during their stay, such as a coffee and chocolate experience, Mount Nelson garden tour, Mount Nelson history and architecture tour, Nellie’s Pink Kombi for a surf lesson in Muizenberg or a culinary tour around the city, a marine biologist experience (rock-pooling, snorkelling and more with a renowned marine biologist), or a guided first light walk on Table Mountain, among others.
Madikwe Game Reserve
Madikwe Game Reserve, a malaria-free wilderness and the fifth-largest game reserve in South Africa, stretches across 75 000ha (185 329 acres) of beautiful, varied terrain along the Botswana border. The reserve offers exceptional wildlife viewing and a sense of true remoteness. An impressive relocation and rehabilitation programme over several decades – the world’s largest such effort – established Madikwe as a sought-after Big Five reserve.
The reserve is home to 66 mammal species, including the Big Five. Guests can look forward to encounters with the endangered African wild dog (also called the painted dog), cheetah, brown and spotted hyena, Cape pangolin, aardwolf, caracal, serval and some rare antelope – to name just a few. Located in the transition zone on the edges of the Kalahari, over 350 recorded species of birds, including raptors, can be found here.
Morukuru River House
Morukuru River House, a luxury five-star, three-bedroom, exclusive-use safari villa located in a private concession within the reserve, is perched on the banks of the perennial Marico River, tucked away beneath the leafy canopy of an ancient morukuru (tamboti) forest. The minimalist design blends contemporary European style with African individualism, imbued with elements of natural wood and stone that invite inside-outside living.
A personal chef, butler, housekeepers, safari guide, and tracker offer an experience that allows guests complete freedom to enjoy different meal options, such as bush breakfasts and lunches, and traditional South African mountaintop or riverside braais (barbeques).
Daily safari experiences include game drives and bush walks. Adventurous spirits can enjoy a sleepout under the stars. The safari experience can also include a rhino notching, or lion (or other big cat) veterinary procedure. Visit the local school to learn about community projects, enjoy a traditional dance performance before dinner, or take an African drumming lesson. The Morokuru Kidz Programme assures some downtime for parents and fun for the children.
Johannesburg
Johannesburg (also known as Jozi, or Egoli – the City of Gold) is the economic powerhouse of South Africa and the gateway to various tourism destinations across Southern Africa. The city was founded following the discovery of gold in the 19th century. It is the world’s largest city not situated on a river, lake or coastline, and is also considered to be the world’s largest man-made urban forest with more than 10-million trees.
The city is not just a stopover – it is a destination with many fascinating sites to visit and explore, from heritage sites to museums, art galleries, cultural tours, township and city tours, golf courses and much more. A plethora of activities, catering to all interests, are available in and around Johannesburg. The Cradle of Humankind (a UNESCO World Heritage Site), Sterkfontein Caves and Maropeng Visitor Centre are nearby. It is a bustling melting pot of cultures from across the world, as is evident in the cuisine, music and art to be enjoyed.
Athol Place Villa
Athol Place Villa is a luxury five-star exclusive-use boutique villa in the affluent residential suburb of Atholl in Sandton, featuring contemporary glamour and understated elegance. Surrounded by lush gardens, it is a tranquil haven, its suites overlooking the garden and private pool. The villa is located adjacent to Athol Place Hotel, offering guests access to the hotel’s facilities. Enjoy the afternoon at leisure or on a guided tour of the city.
Enjoy the evening at leisure at the villa, with a delicious dinner prepared by your private chef.
Mozambique
Mozambique, named after the first capital, Ilha de Moçambique, is a year-round destination and known as one of the finest diving areas globally. The pristine coastline stretches for 2 700km, the fourth-longest in Africa. The Mozambique Channel, home to 35% of all coral reefs in the Indian Ocean (4% of the planet), marks the first stages of the tectonic movements that created the ocean. The unspoilt and expansive coral reefs, with pinnacles, overhangs and coral arches, can reach a depth of up to 40m (44yds).
The Bazaruto Archipelago, found off the southern Mozambique coast and near the Vilanculos mainland, is known as the Pearl of the Indian Ocean. This vital marine protected area covers 1 430km² (553sq mi) and includes the Bazaruto Archipelago National Park, consisting of six islands: Bazaruto, Benguerra, Santa Carolina/Paradise Island, Ilha de Magaruque, Bangué and Pansy Island (often not listed as part of the grouping).
The marine sanctuary, under African Parks management, is an important migratory area for marine megafauna. Bazaruto, the largest of the islands in the archipelago, is home to the largest dunes in South-east Africa.
The Bazaruto Archipelago National Park is home to 500 marine and coastal mollusc species, 2 000 fish species and nine marine mammal species. It protects the rare and endemic dugong (the last viable population in the West Indian Ocean at 150 individuals), whale sharks, manta rays, humpback whales and five sea turtle species. Dolphins are abundant.
The greater archipelago’s varied habitats, including freshwater lakes, dunes, grasslands, forests and wetlands, support diverse avian life. It features over 180 recorded species, hosting large numbers of migratory waterbirds, particularly Palaearctic migrants, providing wintering grounds and resting spots. Notable species are the near-threatened Southern banded snake eagle and Pink-backed pelican, as well as terns, raptors and many more.
Kisawa Sanctuary
Kisawa is a 300ha (741 acre) sanctuary of coastal forest, beach and dunes, located on the southern tip of Benguerra Island, with 5km (3.1mi) of pristine tropical coastline. The design of the five-star Kisawa Sanctuary resort ensures maximum privacy, with minimal impact on the natural environment.
Traditional art forms and techniques, such as weaving, thatching and carpentry, were utilised in the building process to celebrate national heritage within a modern hospitality setting. Each luxury residence, with its private pool, was thoughtfully curated, combining a customised colour palette with specially designed, African-crafted furniture and unique commissioned artworks to evoke a sense of luxury and understated elegance. Electric Mini Mokes allocated to each residence are used for commuting around the resort.
Wellness experiences are comprehensive. Enjoy a gym session with a private instructor, treatments at the award-winning spa, outdoor yoga at the Lagoon Pool and guided meditation sessions.
Here you can enjoy an endless list of experiences, from motorised and non-motorised watersports, a visit to the Bazaruto Centre for Scientific Studies (BCSS) located nearby, community visits, guided island tours, to exploring nearby islands. Several cultural experiences are offered to guests. Snorkel at the other reefs or from the beach.
Enjoy a once-in-a-lifetime experience and dive with the scientists from BCSS. Diving with sharks and giant manta rays or exploring the mysterious shipwreck nearby will be fascinating. Boat-based experiences include flamingo and dugong watching, and whale watching (July to October) are guided by BCSS scientists. A helicopter safari, soaring over the island and the ocean, offers a bird’s eye view of the turquoise waters, winding sandbanks and vibrant reef systems. Sunsets are unforgettable on the dhow. The Little Explorers Family Programme includes a variety of experiences, curated depending on the ages of the children, and can be enjoyed with parents.
Johannesburg
You end your journey, wrapped in the soft glow of it all: Cape Town’s timeless charm, Madikwe’s wild heartbeat, Johannesburg’s quiet elegance, and the barefoot luxury of Kisawa’s island sanctuary. From shared laughter on safari to ocean‑soaked afternoons and nights under wide African skies, these experiences have become woven into your family’s story.
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The mountain, the bush and the beach gallery
The mountain, the bush and the beach FAQs
The first two destinations, Cape Town and Madikwe Game Reserve, are completely malaria-free, making them ideal for families and those who prefer not to take prophylaxis. However, the Bazaruto Archipelago in Mozambique is a malaria-risk area. It is essential that you consult your doctor or a travel clinic well in advance to arrange the appropriate anti-malarial medication for the Mozambique portion of your trip.
This trip requires three distinct wardrobes:
- For Cape Town: stylish day wear, smart-casual outfits for High Tea and dinners, a light jacket and comfortable walking shoes
- For Madikwe: lightweight, neutral-coloured clothing (khaki, beige, green). A warm fleece or a windproof jacket is essential for cold early-morning and evening game drives.
- For Bazaruto: lightweight linens, swimwear, cover-ups, sandals and perhaps a smart-casual outfit for evenings. Don’t forget reef-safe sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
The travel days are designed to be as seamless as possible:
- Cape Town to Madikwe: you’ll take a commercial flight to Johannesburg. There, a representative will meet you and seamlessly guide you to a private lounge for your scheduled light aircraft flight directly to Madikwe’s airstrip
- Madikwe to Bazaruto: this journey is broken by a comfortable overnight stay in Johannesburg to avoid fatigue. You’ll fly from Madikwe to Johannesburg, transfer to the luxurious Athol Place Villa, and then take a fresh flight the next morning from Johannesburg to Vilankulo, Mozambique, followed by a thrilling final helicopter transfer to the island
- South Africa: many nationalities (including the UK, US and most EU members) do not require a visa for tourist stays up to 90 days. The currency is the South African rand (ZAR). Credit cards are widely accepted
- Mozambique: you will likely need a visa. This must be checked based on your specific nationality, as requirements change. The currency is the Mozambican metical (MZN), but US dollars are widely accepted at luxury resorts for all payments and tips. It is best to have small-denomination dollars for tipping
Staying at Morukuru River House gives you the ultimate in safari freedom. As an exclusive-use villa, the entire property is yours. This means you are not bound by lodge schedules. You decide when you want to go on game drives, when you eat and what you do. Your private guide, tracker, chef and butler are there to tailor the entire experience – from bush breakfasts to spontaneous night drives – completely to your preferences.
Please note that for guided bush walks, the North West Parks Board (the relevant provincial parks authority) requires persons over 60 to present a doctor’s certificate that confirms they are fit enough to participate.
Rhino notching is an incredible conservation-in-action experience, but it is not a guaranteed tourist activity. These procedures are scheduled by the park’s veterinary and conservation teams based on the genuine needs of the rhinos. If your stay happens to coincide with a scheduled procedure, your Travel Architect can arrange for your participation, which typically involves a significant financial contribution to the conservation project. It must be requested and arranged well in advance.
Madikwe is a major conservation success story and offers a superb Big Five experience without the malaria risk. It is particularly famous for having a thriving population of the highly endangered African wild dog, making it one of the best places in South Africa to see these rare and fascinating predators. Its location on the edge of the Kalahari Desert also means you see a unique mix of species.
Bazaruto is one of the most important marine sanctuaries in the Western Indian Ocean. Its pristine reefs are home to over 2 000 fish species. But the real magic lies in its megafauna: rare dugongs, manta rays, whale sharks, turtles and dolphins are common. The opportunity to dive or snorkel with scientists from the Bazaruto Centre for Scientific Studies offers a unique and meaningful connection to the conservation work being done here.
Kisawa offers a huge range of experiences. You have full access to non-motorised watersports (kayaking, paddleboarding) and motorised sports (waterskiing, wakeboarding). You can go diving and snorkelling on various reefs, take a sunset dhow cruise, go on a guided island tour in your personal Mini Moke, or arrange a helicopter safari for stunning aerial views of the archipelago.
The overnight stay at Athol Place Villa is a thoughtful logistical inclusion designed for your comfort. Travelling from a remote safari camp in Madikwe all the way to an island in Mozambique in a single day would be long and tiring, involving three flights and multiple transfers. The stop in Johannesburg breaks up the journey, allowing you to relax in a luxurious, tranquil environment and arrive on the island the next day, feeling refreshed and ready to enjoy paradise.
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