aWith the British and Irish Lions Tour heading to South Africa in July 2021 and the ticket ballot officially open, we thought it would be apt to highlight some of the key things to do and see whilst in such a beautifully diverse country. So whether you’re following the whole tour and looking to fill in gaps between matches or making a holiday and supplementing this with one or two rugby games, we have some ideas and suggestions that you will love!
Match 1 & 7: Cape Town
– 3rd July 2021: DHL Stormers v British & Irish Lions
– 31st July 2021: Springboks v British & Irish Lions
Tick off some of the must-see experiences in between games such as Table Mountain, the historical culture of the city, Robben Island, the penguins at Boulders Beach, a drive along the Cape Peninsula, the Waterfront precinct and indulge in a healthy dollop of exceptional food and wine in the Cape Winelands! Cape Town is lucky enough to be blessed with all of these attractions and so much more.
Our Top 3 Accommodation Options
1.Clarendon Bantry Bay & Fresnaye
Bantry Bay: The Clarendon is a luxurious hotel situated high on the slopes of Lions Head, overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, just minutes away from Cape Town’s cafés, restaurants, beaches and vibrant Waterfront. Clarendon Bantry Bay combines luxurious boutique-style accommodation and stunning views to create the ideal hotel experience.
Fresnaye: Cradled along the slopes of Lions Head, in the idyllic suburb of Fresnaye, it caters to families, honeymooners and the exclusive traveler who wants to enjoy the best of Cape Town. A wonderful oasis of rich green lawns and sparkling swimming pools set in a tranquil paradise against the backdrop of a mass of pink bougainvillea. The property also has two elegant fully equipped villas perfect for the whole family and groups!
Dramatically located above the Atlantic Ocean, flanked by the majestic Twelve Apostles and Table Mountain, this award-winning hotel offers luxurious rooms and exquisite dining experiences.
3.Cape Town Hollow Boutique Hotel
Overlooking the Company Gardens and Table Mountain, Cape Town Hollow is one of the best 4-star boutique hotels in Cape Town City Centre. The hotel itself is wedged between Table Mountain and Clifton Beach on one side and the V&A Waterfront, CTICC and buzzing city centre on the other. This cosy hotel is set away from the tourist-trodden routes of Cape Town, offering convenient accommodation in the heart of the Mother City.
Our Top 3 Day Tours
1.Cape Town City Day Tour:
Enjoy a private guided tour to the iconic city sites such as: Table Mountain Cable Way (Weather Permitting), Castle of Good Hope, Bo-Kaap, Noon Day Gun, Company Gardens, District 6 Museum, V&A Waterfront, Diamond Works Institute or The Zeitz Museum of Contemporary Art Africa.
2. Cape Peninsula Day Tour:
Enjoy a full-day private guided tour along the scenic Cape Peninsula visiting top attractions such as Kalk Bay, the adorable penguins at Boulders Beach, Cape Point Nature Reserve (the South-Western most tip of Africa) and the breath-taking Chapman’s Peak.
3. Cape Winelands Day Tour:
Enjoy a private guided wine tour through the luxurious vineyards of the Franschhoek Valley. The experience includes a mix of hidden gems, cellar tours, exquisite food and wine pairing and more. Your tour includes three wineries and enough time to enjoy a leisurely lunch with a breath-taking view. The perfect day in the luxurious winelands for any wine and foodies dream.
Our Top 3 Extensions
1. Paternoster (we recommend a minimum of 2 nights): De Linden Boutique Guest House
De Linden Boutique Guest House is well positioned in the middle of the beautiful fisherman’s village of Paternoster and in very close proximity to the beach and other amenities.
2. Franschhoek (we recommend a minimum of 2 nights): La Cotte Farm
Situated 5 minutes’ drive from the lovely village centre of Franschhoek, La Cotte offers stylish accommodation surrounded by vineyards and mountain vistas, making it the perfect relaxing getaway with delicious food and wine.
3. Hermanus (we recommend a minimum of 2 nights): Mosaic Lagoon Lodge
One of South Africa’s finest hidden gems on the Cape Whale Coast, Mosaic is on the Hermanus Lagoon, by the pristine Walker Bay Beach on the Atlantic and has magnificent views of the Overberg Mountains. Mosaic is a boutique guest resort where luxury is laced with earthly beauty and heavenly night skies.Do not forget this is also one of the best places on earth to see the whales!
Our Top 3 Bars
1. Firemans Arms
Steeped in history and adorned with memorabilia from yesteryear, the Fireman’s Arms pub has been a favourite for Cape Town locals since its doors opened in 1864. Their location has always been ideal and unique in that it’s easy to miss but also perfectly situated away from the high-rise of the CBD.
2. Ferrymans Tavern
Ferrymans, the original Waterfront tavern, is a popular local spot for Mediterranean food, tapas and daily live entertainment. Ferryman’s is able to cater for everyone. From the outside beer garden with a children’s play area and jungle gym, to the sports fanatic watching matches in the pub, to the restaurant for cosy family meals around the fire in winter.
3. Foresters Arms
Nestled at the foot of our majestic mountains, in the leafy suburb of Newlands, Cape Town, Foresters Arms Restaurant and Pub (fondly referred to by the locals as Forries), is one of the oldest pubs in South Africa and provides the perfect retreat from the hustle and bustle of city life.
Match 2: Port Elizabeth
– 7th July 2021: South Africa ‘Invitational’ v British & Irish Lions
Port Elizabeth, also known as ‘The Friendly City’ offers some of the most beautiful beaches, wonderfully preserved historic buildings, vibrant restaurants and breathtaking coastal hiking trails. Nearby are also some of the countries top safari lodges and wilderness areas for a safari experience.
Our Top 3 Accommodation Options
1. Hacklewood Hill Country House
Hacklewood Hill is one of the few remaining Victorian Manor Houses in the city, and as such retains much of the elegance and grace. A black and white checkerboard tiled veranda overlooks a sparkling swimming pool, perfect for leisurely dips on hot summer days – while the well-established garden beckons for a quiet stroll or perhaps even a civilised game of croquet on the lawn. The more energetic can opt for a game of tennis or just choose a secluded spot in the garden to enjoy the abundant birdlife which calls the grounds of Hacklewood home.
Located along the beachfront in and with views of the Indian Ocean, The Hotel offers brightly decorated rooms with air conditioning. It features 3 , a pool and a sun terrace with ocean views. Guests can sunbathe poolside, relax on the sun terrace and enjoy a variety of cocktails or refreshments from the bar. Local activities include snorkelling, swimming and day trips.
The Boardwalk Casino and Entertainment World in Port Elizabeth offers Premier Luxury hotel accommodation only a few minutes away from the Blue Flag awarded Hobie Beach.With 140 rooms, each beautifully decorated and enjoying magnificent ocean views and provides guests with a host of fun activities at the adjacent entertainment complex.
Our Top 3 Day Tours
1. Addo Elephant Park Full Day Tour:
Less than 2 hours from the city, you will find Addo Elephant Park. On this Addo Elephant Park Day Tour you get visit this lovely park, home to one of the most densest Elephant populations in the world. Other animals include Buffalo, Black Rhino, Zebra, Jackal, Bushbuck, Kudu, and other species of antelope. The Addo Elephant National Park also encompasses a huge area stretching from the sea to the Zuurberg Mountains. Most famed for its Elephant, the Park has a huge variety of game. The Addo Elephant Park is malaria free which makes it perfect for families with small children.
2. Port Elizabeth Half Day City Tour:
This Port Elizabeth City Tour is the ideal way of getting to know the ‘friendly city’, revealing Port Elizabeth’s hidden gems. Both historical and contemporary aspects of life in Port Elizabeth and the Eastern Cape are covered, and insights gained will enrich your experience of South Africa.
As one of South Africa’s best kept secrets, Port Elizabeth has a lot to offer. From wonderful fishing opportunities, to beautiful beaches, restaurants, pubs and bars, museums, animal sanctuaries and entertainment, you won’t suffer a dull moment.
3. Tour of the Volkswagen AutoPavilion:
Car lovers will be in heaven on a pre-booked tour at the Volkswagen Factory in Uitenhage. You’ll encounter the oldest kombi in South Africa, meet Herbie and see a car sliced in half by a laser! Enjoy a free tour of the AutoPavillion, which is the only automobile discovery centre on the continent and only the fifth worldwide.
Our Top 3 Extensions
1.Paterson (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): Amakhala Game Reserve
Amakhala Game Reserve is located in the malaria-free Eastern Cape of South Africa. The Game Reserve offers a wide variety of 3, 4 & 5-star owner-managed lodges. The private Game Reserve offers guests accommodation in a selection of 10 diverse establishments made up of restored country houses, safari lodges and tented camps located in different areas of the large 8 500 hectare Game Reserve.
2. Storms River (we recommend 2 nights): Tsitsikamma Village Inn
Situated in the beautiful village of Storms River, Tsitsikamma Village Inn is a unique village-style accommodation nestled in the unspoilt surroundings of the Tsitsikamma area. The area is popular for activities such as mountain biking, hiking, tree top canopy tours and black water tubing down the river.
3. Plettenberg Bay (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): The Plettenberg
The Plettenberg, situated on a rocky headland in Plettenberg Bay, along the famous Garden Route – is the ultimate South African seaside escape. The five-star Small Luxury Hotels of the World property, with its 35 beautifully appointed rooms and two family-style villas, showcases the most breathtaking vistas in Southern Africa, with views of the ocean, mountains and endless stretches of golden sand. Guests may enjoy world-class cuisine courtesy of SeaFood at The Plettenberg, where fresh seafood is the order of the day.
Our Top 3 Bars
1. Barneys Tavern
Taking up a prime location on the beachfront, Barneys Tavern is one of Port Elizabeth’s landmarks that has been a firm favourite among Bay locals for years. It has one of the largest selections of beer on tap in the city and is always filled with a festive vibe, no matter day or night.
2. Bridge Street Brewery
Those that relish a nice, cold frosty will not want to miss out on a stop at the Bridge Street Brewery, the home of craft beer mastery. This microbrewery also includes a gastro pub and tap room where patrons mingle along the banks of the Baakens River and de-stress from the grind of daily life.
3. Ziggy’s Rock & Reggae Bar
With a name inspired by Ziggy Stardust, David Bowie’s alter ego, and a great beachfront location, this vibey space offers cheerful fun for everyone. Relax to the soulful tunes of Bob Marley, BB King and other fabulous old musos while sitting on the deck in summer or in the cosy lounge with fireplace in winter. The menu specialises in tapas, seafood and grills so grab a bottle of crispy white or a long cold frosty and soak up the friendly hospitality.
Match 3: Durban
– 10 July 2021: Cell C Sharks v British & Irish Lions
With upmarket accommodation options, trendy bars and stylish restaurants, Durban sure knows how to treat her visitors. With a wide list of activities, like a visit to Ushaka Marine World, one of the largest aquariums in the world, to snorkeling, kite surfing and whale – watching, Durban is a tropical city gem worth exploring.
Our Top 3 Accommodation Options
The Oyster Box is seaside living at its finest. Well-placed for easy access to the Durban city centre and a number of shopping locations, there is plenty to see and do with little travel time involved. If exploring the bustling city isn’t your cup of tea, the hotel’s massive swimming pool, in-house spa centre and numerous bars are all great spots to kick back and enjoy some much-deserved downtime.
The Beverly Hills Hotel, which has hosted royalty, celebrities and captains of industry, offers guests a choice of 89 beautifully appointed rooms – each with a private balcony and an uninterrupted view of the ocean. The Beverly Hills is sure to evoke an iconic sense of nostalgia, timeless elegance, and romance.
3. Quarters Hotel Florida Road
Located on buzzing Florida Road and a short distance away on Avondale Road, Quarters is within walking distance of Durban’s best restaurants, bars and nightclubs, as well as antique shops, decor shops and coffee shops Entertain yourself at the Greyville Race Course, the numerous golf courses or at the beach just 5 minutes drive away from Quarters Hotel. The Botanical Gardens are also nearby.
Our Top 3 Day Tours
1. Full Day Drakensberg World Heritage Tour:
The full day Drakensberg World Heritage tour takes you on a scenic route to Giant’s Castle in the magnificent Drakensberg Mountains.
2. Half Day Durban City Tour:
Discover the vibrant central business district of Durban on a half day tour that takes you to fascinating historical and cultural landmarks. Highlights may include visiting the world’s 8th largest working harbour and visiting the bustling street markets at Warwick Triangle. The tour ends with a quiet walk through Durban’s beautiful Botanical Garden.
3. Battlefield Day Tour:
This tour takes you into the north of KwaZulu-Natal where you will visit famous sites of the battlefields. There you will encounter museums, memorials and fields dedicated to the Anglo Zulu and Anglo Boer wars.
Our Top 3 Extensions
1. Zululand (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): &Beyond’s Phinda Game Reserve
Showcasing one of the continent’s finest game viewing experiences, &Beyond Phinda is home to Africa’s Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino), as well as 436 bird species. The reserve is particularly well known for close-up sightings of the elegant yet elusive cheetah, as well as the rare black rhino.
2. Zululand (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): Thonga Beach Lodge
This 24-bed luxury lodge is the ideal place to connect with one of Africa’s last pristine wilderness beaches and rediscover your place in it. The 12 thatched eco-sensitive rooms, with ocean or forest views, boast an earthy elegance, and are positioned to afford maximum privacy and minimal environmental impact.
3. Battlefields (we recommend 2 nights): Fugitives Drift Lodge
This private game reserve, a registered Natural Heritage Site, overlooks the famous battle sites of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Fugitives’ Drift offers a choice of accommodation; all still owned and run by the Rattray family. Evident in every corner of this magnificent destination is the Rattray’s love for South Africa, its people, and its unique history.
Our Top 3 Bars
1. The Oyster Bar, Lighthouse Bar or Chukka Bar at Oyster Box
Each with an individual identity, The Oyster Bar, Lighthouse Bar and Chukka Bar offer spectacular interiors, incredible views, cocktails to die for, live music and wonderful menus.
So whether you’re relaxing with a loved one to enjoy cocktails at sunset, partying with friends into the night, or meeting colleagues over a morning coffee or lunchtime dining, there is the right venue to suit the occasion.
2. The Panorama Bar
It’s hard to compete with the views, but the Panorama Bar and pool deck at Southern Sun Elangeni & Maharani is a talking point all of its own. Heated pool, cocktails, and a menu perfect for sharing or savoring.
Meet with friends or mingle with guests and locals from morning to night at our inviting Durban beachfront bar. Champagne is served chilled; cocktails are mixed with a flourish and food is social and delicious.
3. Zululand Brewing Company
The design is cool and quirky but cosy with a stylish look. Expect contemporary Zulu design inspired and decorated originally from Zululand. Awesome food, delicious beer, 7 days a week breakfast lunch & supper! Head over to Zululand Brewing Company at Umhlanga Rocks and grab yourself a world-famous Zulu Blonde. Join the revolution – Support your local craft breweries!
Match 4: Nelspruit
– 14th July 2021: South Africa ‘A’ v British & Irish Lions
Nelspruit plays home to great restaurants, an interesting botanical garden, the world-renowned Kruger Park just a stones throw away, the oldest caves on earth – the Sudwala Caves, the breath-taking Panorama Route as well as the Chimpanzees at the renowned Jane Goodall Institute’s Chimpanzee Eden.
Our Top 3 Accommodation Options
Take in an unique experience of flora and fauna in an atmosphere of relaxation, seclusion and tranquility. Tomjachu is an intimate private bush lodge and private nature reserve, just 20 minutes from Nelspruit, overlooking Kruger’s distant southern boundary. Set in 550 hectares of mountain bushveld within the Crocodile River Mountain Conservancy, walk among zebra, giraffe, wildebeest, and kudu and enjoy havens, lakes and lapas on the reserve.
Nut Grove Manor is a hidden gem in the Lowveld where you can unwind in a laid back, private family atmosphere steeped in history. Its location is conveniently close to the best that the region offers – whether you are a leisure or business traveller – and yet is just far enough from the beaten path to offer peace and quiet
3. Muluwa Lodge
Situated on the Likweti Bushveld Farm Estate in White River, Muluwa Lodge boasts stunning views over the valleys and mountains. The view and the plains game species that graze close by creates a wonderful ‘Serengeti’ type ambience.
Our Top 3 Day Tours
1. Day trip into Kruger National Park
For an authentic safari experience, a Kruger Park safari will give you an unbelievable overview of this iconic destination. Kruger National Park is well-known for its boundless opportunities to spot the famous African Big Five – Elephant, Leopard, Buffalo, Rhino and of course Lion.
Day safaris are conducted in open 4 x 4 safari vehicles. The day trip is an ideal tour as it provides a good overall experience at a relaxed pace. You will experience South Africa’s natural beauty, capture boastful wildlife photographs and have amazing African wildlife encounters. With so much on offer, a full day Kruger Park safari is the best way to experience the park if you have limited time and want to learn more about the park from a knowledgeable guide.
2. Panorama and Highlands Routes
Both the Panorama Route and the Highlands Meander can be conducted as guided or self-drive routes that take one through particularly scenic areas of Mpumalanga.
- Panarama Route offers one the chance to take in the natural wonders of the eastern escarpment of Mpumalanga. It includes God’s Window, Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondawels, Pilgrim’s Rest, Sabie, Lydenburg, White River, Graskop, Ohrigstad, and Hazyview.
- Highlands Meander is aimed at nature lovers and includes first-rate fly-fishing venues, the chance to spot some of the rarest birds, incredible rock climbing, and access to spectacular wild flowers.
3. Interacting with Elephants
Both The Elephant Sanctuary and Elephant Whispers operate just outside Hazyview, roughly 70 kilometres from Nelspruit. Either of these offers you the chance to get up close to elephants and experience their intelligence and compassionate nature one-on-one. Some of the elephants have been rescued from planned culling, all are handled in a gentle and compassionate way.
Our Top 3 Extensions
High in the treetops, accessible only by elevated wooden walkways, the old-world luxury tents of Buffalo Camp are the closest you’ll get to living alongside our wildlife.
This luxury tented camp, in Kapama Private Game Reserve near the Kruger National Park, is a quiet and intimate lodge where you can unwind in the shade of the trees and simply absorb the surrounding peace. The perfect luxury South African Safari escape.
Pungwe is a small intimate authentic safari camp which brings back the essence of a true safari experience, comfortable en-suite meru-style tents are reminiscent of days when safaris were all about the sights, sounds and smells of the bush. The camp is about the bush, the animals, the unique experiences and the subsequent regaling of these by the iconic fireside.
Enjoy a complete off-the-grid digital detox with bucket showers filled with hot water, hearty meals prepared over an open fire by an expert cook, no electricity, nor cell phone reception. Just you and truly raw nature, in the heart of an untamed African wildlife wonderland. Experiencing the bush on foot is entirely different from being on a safari vehicle, enabling you to completely immerse yourself in the mesmerizing sights, sounds and smells of the African bush.
Our Top 3 Bars
1. The Jock Pub & Grill
With its Koi pond and outdoor setting, The Jock offers an authentic Lowveld experience for locals and visitors alike.
2. The Sand Bar
Situated at Mbombela Golf Club overlooking the golf course and picturesque mountain view, it really gives the ultimate bushveld feel and a great opportunity to unwind and enjoy the rugby while the well trained staff handle all your needs.
3. The Pub
If you and your family are looking for an amazing outing, The Pub has a lively atmosphere that makes it the best place to eat and drink. The Pub is also famous for its pap en souse, salads, steaks and buffets. If you are an adventurous kind of person come check out The Pubs cocktails that will give your taste buds a new adventure.
Match 5: Pretoria
– 17th July 2021: Vodacom Bulls v British & Irish Lions
Pretoria boasts lush gardens, buzzing nightclubs and eateries, and an array of rich South African history. Alongside this, its natural wildlife sanctuaries, some of which offer excellent game-viewing opportunities, are just a short drive from the city center. Pretoria is also just a stone’s throw from Johannesburg making watching the Lions’ Match in Pretoria very accessible.
Our Top 3 Accommodation Options
Bohemian House offers stylish accommodation decorated with artworks from around the world. It is located in Pretoria’s Waterkloof suburb close to embassies and surrounded by Jacaranda trees, a flower garden and outdoor pool.
Combining the charm of a French Provençal villa with contemporary comfort, AM Milner Guest House is a chic boutique hotel located along a peaceful, jacaranda tree-lined avenue in the upmarket Pretoria suburb of Waterkloof.
3. Duke & Duchess Boutique Hotel
The Duke and Duchess is an intimate, cozy Boutique Hotel in the heart of Pretoria, situated in an exclusive suburb, Waterkloof Park. All suites have a lush and classical French English look, furnished with antiques and art from the owners’ private collection.
Our Top 3 Day Tours
1. Johannesburg—city and museums
Johannesburg is just a quick 30-minute drive away from Pretoria and the City of Gold is jam-packed with things to see and do. Museum lovers can learn about South Africa’s difficult past with a visit to the Apartheid Museum. Alternatively, sit back, forget about the traffic, and gape at some of the amazing architecture of the city center while on the red Hop-On, Hop-Off bus that gives riders a tour of all of the city’s main attractions.
2. Hartbeespoort
Affectionately known as ‘Harties’, the nearby town of Hartbeespoort is a wonderful day out for the whole family. Situated about an hour’s drive east of Pretoria on the banks of the Hartbeespoort Dam. Adrenalin junkies can take the cableway up the mountain for a glorious view over the dam and those even more adventurous might consider taking a hot air balloon ride. Those who want to keep their feet firmly on the ground, visit the Elephant Sanctuary, the Owl Rescue Center, or the Hartbeespoort Dam Aquarium.
3. The Cradle of Humankind
Drive just over an hour to step back millions of years in time. The Cradle of Humankind is the area where paleontologists discovered Mrs. Ples. The most complete skull ever found of the Australopithecus africanus, an early ancestor of modern humans, this discovery made the theory that humankind originated in Africa more acceptable. Take a tour through the Sterkfontein caves where the skull was found and visit Maropeng, an award-winning exhibition center that takes tourists through time to explore the origin of modern humans.
Our Top 3 Extensions
1. Madikwe (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): Impodimo Game Lodge
Impodimo Game Lodge is set on a rocky ridge overlooking the vistas within the magnificent malaria-free Madikwe Game Reserve of the North West Province of South Africa.
Madikwe Game Reserve covers an area of 75000 hectares of unique topography and breathtaking beauty bordering Botswana. It is home to the Big 5, the beautiful Painted Wolf (African Wild Dogs), Cheetah, Brown and Spotted Hyena a variety of large mammals and bird life.
2. Waterberg (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): Waterberg Lodge
Waterberg Lodge is part of Zebula Golf Estate, and is located in a quiet corner of the reserve, ensuring an undisturbed bushveld experience for its guests. The lodge is situated in a unique bush setting with various free roaming wildlife as well as an abundance of birdlife for your pleasure. One special but very elusive Strawberry leopard has also made her home in the bush.
3. Battlefields (we recommend 2 nights):Battelfields at Fugitives Drift
This private game reserve, a registered Natural Heritage Site, overlooks the famous battle sites of Isandlwana and Rorke’s Drift. Fugitives’ Drift offers a choice of accommodation; all still owned and run by the Rattray family. Evident in every corner of this magnificent destination is the Rattray’s love for South Africa, its people, and its unique history.
Our Top 3 Bars
1. Hogshead
Your friendly local restaurant and pub. Specialising in craft beer, burgers and ribs at their smokehouse pub.
2. Baracas Wine and Beer Bar
Baracas, situated in the heart of Pretoria, is a beer & wine bar. This trendy bar has a rich sporting heritage and is known for its fine cuisine, the best array of craft beer in Pretoria and an elegant wine selection.
3. African Beer Emporium
African Beer Emporium (ABE) provides local and foreign visitors a taste of Africa in an unprecedented way and with exceptional style, with a menu of signature African fusion dishes designed by celebrity Chef Khanya Mzongwana from all over the continent.
Match 6 & 8: Johannesburg
– 24th July 2021: Springboks v British & Irish Lions
– 7th August 2021: Springboks v British & Irish Lions
Johannesburg is one of Africa’s biggest and most vibrant cities. The old city is a multi-cultural mixture of traditional medicine shops, culturally diverse restaurants, taxi ranks and ultra-modern skyscrapers. There are excellent museums, art galleries and organised tours of historical and political interest. The shopping is Southern Africa’s best and caters for all tastes. The nearby township of Soweto is Johannesburg’s most popular tourist attraction, I would recommend a visit!
Our Top 3 Accommodation Options
Wake up in luxury rooms designed for your comfort. Choose from standard, superior and luxury rooms to make your stay a memorable one. Each room has been designed, decorated and furnished with care to ensure ultimate comfort. View the beautiful garden from your window and enjoy your morning coffee listening to birdsong.
2. Fairlawns Boutique Hotel & Spa
This award-winning boutique hotel, located in a tranquil suburb of Sandton, impresses with its Balinese Spa, excellent restaurant and world-class suites. With close attention to detail and exceptional service, Fairlawns creates an intimate atmosphere where some of the globe’s most vibrant personalities converge.
3. Four Seasons Hotel Westcliff
Despite being in the middle of South Africa’s largest city, Westcliff Hotel feels like a chic hillside village, with nine sun-splashed villas woven with courtyards, fountains and gardens. Take a ride up the glass elevator for dinner and drinks at View, meet friends for a traditional braai (barbecue) at Flames, or simply step out onto your room’s balcony to enjoy a quiet moment as you admire the endless canopy of jacaranda trees that stretches out before you, which, come springtime, will blanket our northern suburb streets in a sea of purple blooms.
Our Top 3 Day Tours
1. Soweto Guided Day Tour
Visit the Apartheid Museum to learn more about South Africa’s policies of racial division, pay a visit to the home of Nelson Mandela to be inspired and to see how change was brought about in the country, and finally, pay your respects at the site of the Soweto Uprising. It’s an intriguing place, and one of the best day trips to make from Johannesburg.
2. Pilanesberg Game Reserve
If you’re craving a visit to the bush, Pilanesberg Game Reserve is the perfect place for a one-day safari. The reserve is set within an extinct volcanic crater, the only one of its kind in the world, and is home to the Big 5.
3. Sun City
Sun City is essentially one big holiday resort, and South Africa’s most famous getaway is an excellent place to visit if you are looking for relaxation, fun and amusement parks. Boasting with opulent extravaganza of luxurious hotels, glittering entertainment centres, restaurants, gaming rooms, shops, discos and extensive, beautifully landscaped grounds.
Sun City resort is also one of South Africa’s premier golfing destinations. It is home to two 18-hole, par 72 golf courses designed by South African legend Gary Player: the Lost City Golf Course and the Gary Player Golf Course, both of which have been designed to maximize the challenge for every handicap of golfer.
Our Top 3 Extensions
1. Kalahari (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): Tswalu Kalahari
Tswalu is a vast, magical land of infinite possibility, with sweeping vistas and a liberating sense of space. The green Kalahari is nature at its most diverse and surprising, and to spend time here is to be touched by exuberant, soulful beauty. Considered important for thousands of years, we’re now striving to conserve this breath-taking landscape for future generations.
2. Pilanesberg (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): Ivory Tree Game Lodge
Ivory Tree Game Lodge lies in a natural amphitheatre surrounded by mountain and immersed in woodlands that are dissected by ancient elephant trails. In the north eastern part of the Pilanesberg, Ivory Tree covers an oasis of luxury in one of South Africa’s favourite wilderness areas. A large pool, the Amani African Spa, outdoor dining and spectacular game viewing make for the perfect holiday.
3. Kruger (we recommend 2 to 3 nights): Garonga Safari Camp
Garonga Safari Camp is an exclusive camp ideally positioned in the greater Makalali Conservancy, west of the Kruger National Park. Garonga Safari Camp’s philosophy is to offer a distinct, relaxing and holistic wilderness experience allowing you the time to reflect and find inspiration in nature. This South African safari lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park region in addition, offers luxury tented accommodation with thrilling wildlife encounters for you to enjoy.
Our Top 3 Bars
1. Mad Giant
Mad Giant Brewery, situated in Johannesburg (Gauteng Province), is focussed on steering clear of the conventional way of doing things and insisting on innovation, questioning, doubting, learning, experimenting, and taking the leap to greater things.
What started as a tiny brewery in a tiny town, perched on the coal fields of South Africa, has blossomed into a vibrant hub where inspiring brews are crafted.
2. Grand Slam Sports Diner
The doors of the Grand Slam is not only open to sports fanatics but also to groups of family and friends. The fully equipped and stocked diner is ready to entertain the masses from Monday to Sunday.
3. Gilroy’s Brewery
Gilroy’s Brewery – award-winning restaurant & pub and micro-brewery in sunny Muldersdrift. With live entertainment, delicious fresh food, great beer, conference facilities, and games for all ages, there’s always a reason to celebrate life at Gilroy’s.
Contact us at hello@satoriafrica.co.ca or agatha@satoriafrica.co.za to experience the biggest rugby game South Africa has seen!
