Hello! Julie from Exclusively Cruising here, and I'm excited to announce something truly special: a brand-new, exclusive African itinerary! As a tour professional, there's nothing I love more than designing an adventure that captures the essence of a destination, and this one for March 2026 is going to be amazing.
I’ve selected every detail carefully to create an unparalleled journey through South Africa and Zimbabwe, combining a variety of wildlife encounters with cultural experiences and natural wonders. This isn't just a trip; it's an immersion into the heart of Africa alongside myself and a group of other passionate travellers, and I genuinely cannot wait to share it with you.
Our adventure begins on March 5th, 2026, as we depart from Melbourne/Sydney Australia, making our way to the vibrant city of Cape Town, one of the world's most beautiful cities, nestled at the foot of the iconic Table Mountain. We'll be staying at The Cape Milner, a chic hotel that truly embodies sophistication, offering stunning views of Table Mountain where we can enjoy, perhaps, a pre-cocktail at the famous Glass Lounge one evening. Tonight, however, it's time for settling in, getting a good rest and preparing for an exciting day tomorrow.
Meals: none
Our first few days in Cape Town will be packed with highlights. We'll embark on a half-day City & Table Mountain Tour, exploring historical landmarks like the Castle of Good Hope and the colourful Bo-Kaap (Malay Quarter). Weather permitting, I’m keen to take you on the famous revolving cable car up Table Mountain for those wide sweeping panoramic views – on a clear day, we might even spot Robben Island!
Meals: Breakfast
I enjoyed this scenic drive to the Cape Peninsula so much that I insisted that we include it for you too. We'll visit the adorable African penguin colony at Boulders Beach, explore the dramatic cliffs of Cape Point Nature Reserve, and take in the iconic views from the lighthouse.
I can’t wait to un-pack our picnic lunch in the seaside town of Noordhoek together and chat over sandwiches and other tasty morsels. To top it off, I’m so looking forward to a scrumptious dinner at Kloof Street House Restaurant with you - it’s a truly unique dining experience in a fairy-lit Victorian house.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
From Cape Town, we will head to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) and then straight to the Bellevue Forest Reserve. This is where our wildlife adventure begins! We'll spend a night immersed in this malaria-free region, known for its genuine African hospitality. The absolute highlight here? An unforgettable Giraffe Tracking Safari on foot. Imagine walking quietly through the bush, getting up close and personal with these magnificent, graceful creatures. It’s a rare and special experience.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
After our giraffe encounter, we journey to the multi-award-winning Samara Karoo Reserve for a three-night stay. Nestled in the heart of South Africa’s Great Karoo, this isn’t just another luxury lodge, it’s the heart of one of the country’s most ambitious rewilding projects, and being there felt like stepping into a living, breathing conservation story.
Samara’s vision is nothing short of extraordinary: to restore 67,000 acres of semi-arid wilderness to its natural state, returning indigenous wildlife to landscapes where they once thrived. As I gazed out over vast plains and craggy escarpments, it was humbling to know that just a few decades ago, this land was farmland, its wildlife nearly lost. Today, thanks to Samara’s progressive conservation efforts, the area is teeming with life once more.
During my previous stay, I learned that Samara has successfully reintroduced large mammals like cheetahs, lions, elephants, and both white and black rhinos. The reserve has even played a pivotal role in the survival of the South African cheetah—one of Africa’s most threatened big cats. The passion of the guides and staff was palpable; every game drive felt like a behind-the-scenes look at conservation in action.
The property itself is warm and welcoming, with beautifully appointed suites blending seamlessly into the landscape. Communal areas encourage connection after a day in the bush - over afternoon tea or sundowners, you’ll find yourself swapping stories with guides and fellow travellers, inspired by the wildlife and the meaningful mission of Samara.
The wildlife encounters here felt deeply personal: watching a young cheetah stalk across the plains, sharing a silent moment with a herd of elephants, and witnessing a lion’s regal presence at dusk. These weren’t just thrilling sights; they were a testament to Samara’s dedication to restoring balance and biodiversity to the Karoo.
As I learned more about their work with local communities, educational programs, and sustainable tourism, it became clear that Samara isn’t simply a place to visit - it’s a legacy in the making. For travellers like you and I craving more than a traditional safari, this reserve offers the chance to be part of something genuinely transformative.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (09Mar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (10/11 Mar)
Next, we transfer to Port Elizabeth airport, and fly to Johannesburg, South Africa’s vibrant heart, where we’ll check into the luxurious Sandton Sun for a two night stay. This hotel offers sophistication and convenience, right in the heart of the city. This day will mostly be at your own leisure, however, I’m always able to offer advice on how to spend your time.
Meals: Breakfast
Today I can’t wait to show you the history, spirit and authenticity that is Lebo's Soweto Tuk-Tuk Tour. We'll ride in eco-friendly tuk-tuks, visit landmarks like the Hector Peterson memorial, learn about Nelson Mandela’s legacy on Vilakazi Street, and even sample local delicacies while supporting local businesses. It's an experience that connects you with South Africa. In the evening, let’s indulge in a fantastic dinner at Marble Restaurant, a celebration of South African cuisine with a focus on open-fire cooking.
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Our adventure continues as we fly into Madikwe Game Reserve, courtesy of Federal Air (with their fantastic private lounge at the airport – a perfect start to safari!). Madikwe is an 80,000-hectare Big 5 wilderness destination, renowned for its diverse wildlife and successful conservation model. We'll be staying at the elegant Madikwe Safari Lodge for three nights, which blends perfectly into the untouched bushveld.
Madikwe is famous for its abundant wildlife, including the Big 5 – lion, buffalo, leopard, elephant, and both white and black rhino – plus elusive African wild dogs, cheetah, hippo, giraffe, and over 350 bird species! Our expert rangers and trackers will guide us on twice-daily game drives, bringing us up close to these incredible creatures. It's a truly immersive safari experience, offering unparalleled photo opportunities and moments of pure awe. The property itself provides all our delicious meals during our stay, so we can relax and spend our time truly revelling in the beauty that surrounds us.
Meals: Breakfast & Dinner (14 Mar)
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner (15/16 Mar)
Our African odyssey culminates with a flight to Victoria Falls (via Johannesburg), one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World! We’ll be staying for 3 nights at The Palm River Hotel, a unique luxury property perfectly situated on the banks of the iconic Zambezi River, so close you can hear the "smoke that thunders" (the local name for the Falls) on a quiet day!
Upon arrival, let’s embark on a magical Sunset Cruise on the Zambezi River aboard the exquisite Zambezi Explorer. Picture this: sipping sundowners, enjoying canapés, and watching the African landscape transform as the sun dips below the horizon, often with hippos and crocodiles making an appearance. Can’t wait!
Meals: Breakfast
The next morning, a guided Tour of Victoria Falls awaits us. Prepare to be absolutely dwarfed by the sheer power and scale of "Mosi-oa-Tunya" – the smoke that thunders. We’ll visit the best viewpoints, feeling the spray and hearing the roar of millions of litres of water plunging into the chasm below. I’m looking forward to getting that perfect shot of the falls. .
Meals: Breakfast
The remainder of your time at Victoria Falls is at leisure, offering opportunities to explore the vibrant local markets, or perhaps consider an optional "Flight of Angels" helicopter tour for an aerial perspective, or even a full-day excursion to Chobe National Park (additional cost paid direct), or just spend the day doing a little shopping to grab those last minute souvenirs before our flight back to Melbourne tomorrow.
Meals: Breakfast
Finally, with hearts full of incredible stories and new friendships, we’ll begin our journey home from Victoria Falls, connecting through Johannesburg and Perth before arriving back in Melbourne/Sydney on March 21st, 2026. It will be bittersweet to say goodbye to you all and South Africa, but we will have so many memories to cherish.
Meals: Breakfast
Begins: 5 March 2026 - with included flight from Melbourne/Sydney
Ends: 21 March 2026 - with flight arriving into Melbourne/Sydney
Duration: 16 days / 15 nights
Prices: Based on EarlyBird offer to be booked and deposited by 31 July 2025.
Twin share / Double share per person from AUD $23,899*
Single sole use occupancy from AUD $30,249*
To book call Julie on 03 9762 2799 or email on: cruise@exclusivelycruising.com.au
This itinerary has been thoughtfully designed, inspired by my genuine love for this destination. I purposely have omitted Kruger National Park, as I discovered on my travels that this area is so overcrowded that it’s affecting the wildlife. Therefore, I have designed an authentic, intimate, and unforgettable African adventure for us to enjoy together. I’m incredibly excited about leading this group, and I truly believe this will be the trip of a lifetime.
If you've been dreaming of Africa, this is your chance! Don't hesitate to reach out if you're keen to join me on this spectacular journey.
Regards,
Julie O'Grady
Exclusively Cruising
Terms and Conditions apply-
*All prices shown here are per person and based current exchange rates and may vary until paid in full. Tour requires a minimum of 11 guests to proceed at prices shown here. Gratuities to drivers, guides, rangers and trackers are not included and are at the discretion of the travelling guest. Luggage is limited to 20kg per person.**
Airfare based on set departure dates and changes will incur re-costing. If you are flying from another Australian city, we can quote a connecting airfare for you to/from Melbourne. Meals or drinks other than those listed on the itinerary are not included. All activities are weather dependent and may be changed due to local conditions. We reserve the right to correct errors without penalty. A deposit of $2000.00 per person is due within 3 days of booking or by 31 July 2025 to obtain the earlybird price and final payment due on or before 15 December 2025.
**Important Baggage Policy
Tags
About Julie O'Grady, CLIA Cruise Master, and Exclusively Cruising
© 2025 Exclusively Cruising. All Rights Reserved. Website designed by Smartin Designs, developed by Hope Stewart—Website Design & Management
