South Africa - Durban, KwaZulu Natal, & Cape Town

Eat, Drink, and Explore this amazing safari destination!

12 Days, 11 Nights

Price starting at $7,750

Culinary delights, cultural adventures, regional travels, and gratuities — all covered in one upfront price!

Step into a world of boundless wonder and culinary delights traveling to KwaZulu-Natal and Cape Town, South Africa, on this extraordinary adventure that promises an exquisite blend of culinary and cultural diversity, breathtaking landscapes, and unparalleled experiences. In KwaZulu-Natal, travelers are greeted by the Zulu Kingdom's warm hospitality and diverse cuisine. The region boasts a stunning coastline as well as some of the best Big Five Game Reserves in the world. In contrast, Cape Town's allure lies in its cosmopolitan charm, nestled between the iconic Table Mountain and the sapphire waters of the Atlantic Ocean. The city's vibrant food scene and rich history captivate travelers, while nearby vineyards offer exquisite wine-tasting experiences.

Both regions showcase the splendor of South Africa, leaving visitors enchanted with memories that will forever hold a piece of this remarkable country.


Brief Overview of Inclusions

Accommodations: Eleven (11) nights

Meals:

  • Eleven (11) Breakfasts

  • Ten (10) Lunches

  • Eleven (11) Dinners

Drinks:

  • Alcoholic or non-alcoholic beverages (restrictions may apply)

All Activities

All Gratuities

All Regional Transfers

All Logistics while in South Africa

Crave South Africa

May 14 - 25, 2025

Crave South Africa Itinerary

  • durban south africa

    Day 1 - uMhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal

    You’ve made it! After your journey to South Africa you will arrive at King Shaka International Airport (Durban) anytime on arrival day where a VIP Group meet and greet will be ready for you outside of customs to transfer to the hotel.

    This evening at leisure with a cash stipend provided and your Crave host(s) will be at The Oyster Bar for an apertivo should you feel up to socialize (however we realize with the length of your travels, you may choose to head to your room for a shower and room service).

  • south africa durban

    Day 2 - uMhlanga, KwaZulu-Natal

    Sleep in or if you are up early, enjoy the beautiful breakfast spread at The Oyster Box.

    Later this morning we will explore Durban with a Half Day Durban City Tour. The ideal introductory tour of Durban, which has been shaped by the early Colonial settlers, the indigenous Zulus, and the Indians who arrived as indentured labourers in the 19th Century.

    Lunch is a special treat where we will discover the rich Indian history of Durban and experience the unique "Bunny Chow" cuisine. Bunny chow is a popular South African street food originating from Durban and consists of a hollowed-out loaf of bread filled with curry. Originally created by Indian immigrants in Durban, bunny chow typically features spicy curry fillings such as chicken, beef, lamb, or vegetables.

    After an afternoon at leisure back at The Oyster Box we will enjoy dinner at our hotel in the casual, Mediterranean-inspired Ocean Terrace, with gorgeous views across the Indian Ocean, the impressive curry selection, of at least 11 curries daily, includes meat, fish and vegetarian options. Using delicate blends of spices and fresh herbs, each curry is a masterpiece in itself.

  • Safari South Africa

    Day 3 - Saint Lucia & mThembu Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal

    Say goodbye to the beautiful Oyster Box as well head to the African Bush! On our way to the gorgeous mThembu Lodge we will stop in Saint Lucia along the way.

    Lunch will be in the quaint beach town of Saint Lucia followed by a Hippo & Crocodile Cruise through the iSimangaliso Wetlands. The iSimangaliso Wetland Park, formerly known as the St. Lucia Wetlands, is a UNESCO World Heritage Site that encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including beaches, coral reefs, wetlands, estuaries, forests, and grasslands. One of the park's main attractions is Lake St. Lucia, the largest estuarine system in Africa, which provides a habitat for hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

    In the afternoon we will arrive at mFulawozi and proceed to an evening game drive. Game drives are an exhilarating experience where you board specially designed vehicles, accompanied by knowledgeable guides, to observe and encounter the diverse and majestic African wildlife in their natural habitats.

    Dinner and drinks will be served at the lodge when we return from the game drive.

  • safari bush, south africa

    Day 4 - mThembu Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal

    When on safari the game drives are typically early in the morning and in the late afternoon.

    In the morning we will head out on our morning game drive.

    While we are exploring the African Bush in search of the Big Five, we will stop to stretch our legs and enjoy a coffee or tea out of the vehicle. Breakfast will be served in the lodge after we return from the Bush.

    The afternoon is at leisure. You can choose to schedule a spa treatment, explore the lodge, see about walking safari’s or other activities the lodge provides, or relax by the pool if weather permits.

    There will be a lunch and tea served in early afternoon prior to the evening game drive.

    In the late afternoon we will depart on our evening game drive. Towards the end of the game drive we will stop for a “sun downer”. A sundowner is a refreshing (alcoholic or non-alcoholic) drink taken at sunset in the African bush to end your afternoon safari game drive adventure in style: a so-called safari-inspired happy hour while enjoying the sunset on a beautiful place in the African bush

    Dinner and drinks will be served at the lodge when we return from the game drive.

  • South Africa

    Day 5 - mThembu Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal

    In the morning we will head out on our morning game drive.

    While we are exploring the African Bush in search of the Big Five, we will stop to stretch our legs and enjoy a coffee or tea out of the vehicle. Breakfast will be served in the lodge after we return from the Bush.

    The afternoon is at leisure. You can choose to schedule a spa treatment, explore the lodge, see about walking safari’s or other activities the lodge provides, or relax by the pool if weather permits.

    There will be a lunch and tea served in early afternoon prior to the evening game drive.

    In the late afternoon we will depart on our evening game drive. Towards the end of the game drive we will stop for a “sun downer”.

    Dinner and drinks will be served at the lodge when we return from the game drive.

  • safari bush south africa

    Day 6 - Thanda Safari Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal

    Today we will depart beautiful Hluhluwe Game Reserve and transfer to Thanda Safari Lodge.

    On our way to Thanda we will make a short stop at Zamimpilo Craft Market to look at (and if you’d like, purchase) all the local crafts and items the Zulu women in the area make and sell.

    In the afternoon we will arrive at Thanda and proceed to our evening game drive.

    Dinner & drinks will be at the lodge after the game drive.

  • safari bush south africa

    Day 7 - Thanda Safari Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal

    In the morning we will head out on our morning game drive.

    Breakfast will be served in the lodge after we return from the Bush.

    The afternoon is at leisure. Guests are welcome to visit schools and families in the neighbouring communities, experience Zulu culture, and community projects. You can also choose to schedule a spa treatment, explore the lodge, see about walking safari’s or other activities the lodge provides, or relax by the pool if weather permits.

    There will be a lunch and tea served in early afternoon prior to the evening game drive.

    In the late afternoon we will depart on our evening game drive. Towards the end of the game drive we will stop for a “sun downer”.

    Dinner and drinks will be served at the lodge when we return from the game drive.

  • safari bush south africa

    Day 8 - Thanda Safari Lodge, KwaZulu-Natal

    In the morning we will head out on our morning game drive.

    Breakfast will be served in the lodge after we return from the Bush.

    The afternoon is at leisure. Guests are welcome to visit schools and families in the neighbouring communities, experience Zulu culture, and community projects. You can also choose to schedule a spa treatment, explore the lodge, see about walking safari’s or other activities the lodge provides, or relax by the pool if weather permits.

    There will be a lunch and tea served in early afternoon prior to the evening game drive.

    In the late afternoon we will depart on our evening game drive. Towards the end of the game drive we will stop for a “sun downer”.

    Dinner and drinks will be served at the lodge when we return from the game drive.

  • cape town south africa

    Day 9 - Cape Town

    As we depart the African Bush we will have one last chance of spotting the beautiful wildlife of KwaZulu-Natal. We will take our breakfast to go and transfer to King Shaka International Airport for our flight to Cape Town.

    Before heading to our hotel in Cape Town we will take a tour to Boulders Beach. Boulders Beach, is not only a stunning testament to South Africa's diverse coastal beauty, but it also plays a significant role in penguin conservation. As one of the few sites in the world where visitors can get up close with the endangered African penguin, it provides a unique opportunity to appreciate and understand these endearing creatures. The boardwalks ensure that humans can observe without disrupting their natural habitat. Every visit to Boulders Beach supports conservation initiatives to sustaining the habitat and ensuring the future of the African penguin.

    After our visit with the Penguins, we will head towards our hotel with a stop in Hout Bay for a dinner of some authentic fish & chips. Nestled between the rugged peaks of the Table Mountain National Park and the azure embrace of the Atlantic Ocean, Hout Bay offers a charming blend of nature and culture. Its thriving harbor provides a bustling backdrop of fishing boats coming and going, while the nearby Mariner's Wharf offers an array of seafood delights, reflecting the town's maritime heritage.

  • cape town south africa

    Day 10 - Cape Town

    Breakfast at leisure at the hotel.

    Today we will have a full day in the Cape Winelands incorporating tastings at three wineries and lunch at a local restaurant.

    The Cape Winelands, nestled in the Western Cape of South Africa, holds a special allure for visitors worldwide. Renowned for its picturesque landscapes, rolling vineyards, and majestic mountains, the region offers a sensory feast of flavors, aromas, and breathtaking vistas. Beyond its scenic beauty, the Cape Winelands boasts a rich history dating back centuries, evident in its charming Cape Dutch architecture and historic estates. Here, visitors can indulge in world-class wines, crafted with meticulous care by passionate vintners, and savor exquisite culinary delights paired perfectly with the region's renowned vintages.

    This evening will be at leisure with a cash stipend for dinner.

  • cape town south africa

    Day 11 - Cape Town

    Breakfast at leisure at the hotel.

    Today we will partake in a visit to the local Oranjezicht City Farm & Market. The Oranjezicht City Farm, also known as OZCF, is a community-centered urban farming project that serves as a model for sustainable, local urban food systems. Located in the historic Oranjezicht area, this farm seeks to educate the public about urban agriculture, healthy eating, and sustainable living. The produce grown here is organic, emphasizing the importance of sustainable and environmentally-friendly farming practices. The Market offers a range of artisanal food products, baked goods, and crafts. It's not just a place to shop but also a vibrant community space where people gather to enjoy delicious food, live music, and the atmosphere of a genuine Cape Town gathering spot.

    In essence, OZCF promotes community engagement, urban farming, and sustainable living, all while providing a delightful and culturally rich experience for its visitors.

    After our visit to the market we will head to Table Mountain for a cable car ride to the top for some of the best scenic views in all of South Africa. After we descend the mountain we will be picked up by sidecars for a beautiful drive around the coast.

    This evening will be our farewell dinner at one of Cape Town’s amazing restaurants.

  • Day 12 - Depart

    Breakfast at leisure at the hotel.

    Today we say goodbye. There will be two scheduled transfers from The Winchester Hotel to Cape Town International Airport.

    While we have carefully planned and organized our itinerary, there may be circumstances beyond our control that necessitate changes to hotels, tours, or restaurants during the course of our trip.

    Please rest assured that should any changes occur, our priority will be to ensure that the replacement accommodation, tour, or restaurant is of equal or higher quality and standards.

Accommodations

  • Payment is required at time of booking.

    Your trip’s deposit is due at the time of booking. The deposit is NON-REFUNDABLE. You will receive automatic payment reminders with a payment link leading up to your Crave Travel Trip. This link will only allow you to pay the entire remaining balance due. To make smaller payments than remaining balance due – Please send an email to: Info@CraveTravel.org. Please include your Name, Trip, Dates, and Amount you wish to pay. We will run the card used at booking and send you a confirmation by email. Please allow up to 2 business days for us to process.

    Payment Schedule:

    • 20% non-refundable deposit due at time of booking

    • 50% due 120 days prior to arrival

    • 30% due 90 days prior to arrival

    If full payment is not received by the due date, your reservation may be cancelled without additional notice and deposits will be forfeited. Some supplier terms specify that there is no refund after a booking is made and paid for. Your ability to obtain a refund if you change or cancel travel plans is limited.

    CANCELLATION

    All cancellation requests must be sent in writing to Info@CraveTravel.org. Crave Travel wants nothing more than for you to enjoy one of our trips, however, we understand emergencies do occur that may cause you to cancel your reservation. Our cancellation policy is as follows:

    The deposit is NON-REFUNDABLE.

    Refunds will be given as outlined below based on days prior to trip arrival and length of trip.

    • Full refund less Non-Refundable Deposit: 121+ days

    • 30% Trip Cost: 120-91 days

    • No Refund: 90 Days or less

    No exceptions will be granted to our Cancellation policy.

    *We reserve the right to cancel trips with inadequate participant attendance, in which case all money paid to Crave Travel, LLC will be fully refunded. Crave Travel, LLC CANNOT be held responsible for any personal expenses, such as airline tickets due to changes in itineraries or tour cancellations.

    Can I transfer my trip?

    Crave Travel will transfer 100% of funds paid including the Non-Refundable deposit if transfer is made outside of our cancellation policy deadlines. Transfer can be made to any scheduled tour with available space. Our normal cancellation policy is in place for all other transfer requests.

    *Crave Travel reserves the right to decline to accept or retain any person as a tour participant should such person’s behavior, health, or mental condition impede the operation of the trip.

    *Crave Travel reserves the option to modify trip itineraries at the discretion of your tour director as necessary due to weather, conditions, illness, injury, group dynamics, safety, or other unforeseen incidents.

    Your responsibility to arrange air travel and transportation to and from home, airline reservations are not included in the cost of your Crave Travel trip. You are responsible to arrange air travel and your transportation from home or other location where your travel originates and to your home or other location where your travel ends. Crave Travel shall not be responsible for air or ground schedule changes.

  • Two Nights at The Oyster Box

    • Shared two people per room.

    • One bed per room (unless otherwise stated or requested and subject to availability)

    Three Nights at mThembu Lodge mFulaWozi Wilderness Private Reserve.

    • Shared two people per room.

    • One bed per room (unless otherwise stated or requested and subject to availability)

    Three Nights at Thanda Safari Lodge.

    • Shared two people per room.

    • One bed per room (unless otherwise stated or requested and subject to availability)

    Three nights at The Winchester Hotel.

    • Shared two people per room.

    • One bed per room (unless otherwise stated or requested and subject to availability)

    Airport transfers in South Africa

    Flight from Durban to Cape Town

    Private ground transportation throughout trip

    Private driver and local knowledgeable English speaking guide throughout the trip

    All the activities and their entrance fees as noted in the itinerary

    Meals:

    • Eleven (11) breakfasts

    • Ten (10) lunches (some scheduled and some with stipend)

    • Eleven (11) dinners (some scheduled and some with stipend)

    Drinks:

    • Alcoholic & non-alcoholic drinks included throughout the trip (Some restrictions may apply)

    All Gratuities for hotels and local guides

    Unlimited purified drinking water on vehicle – Travelers will be provided with their own reusable bottles

    Taxes, VAT, and other applicable national taxes

    24-hour support from Crave Travel.

    Crave Travel host(s)

    What’s NOT Included:

    International Airfare

    Laundry (complimentary at Thanda Safari Lodge)

    Anything not mentioned in the inclusions

    Travelers Insurance

  • We Love Walking: As a Crave Traveler, we strive to experience the local areas we are visiting and a big part of this is walking around the destination.

    Many of our activities include a lot walking throughout the duration of the activity as well as walking to and from activities or meals. If you are not able to walk long periods of time, please reach out to one of our Crave Travel experts to see if this trip is right for you.

    We Love Food: The best way to experience a destination is through its food. We strive to include local delicacies and popular culinary delights from each destination we visit. If you have strict dietary restrictions, please reach out to one of our Crave Travel experts to see if this trip is right for you.

  • We require a minimum of six (6) Crave Travelers for this trip. Please confirm your trip is guaranteed before booking airfare.

    Arrival/Departure:

    Your trip begins in Durban, South Africa and ends in Cape Town, South Africa

    Arrival Day: Please schedule to arrive at the Durban King Shaka International Airport anytime on arrival day. You will be met by our driver at the airport who will transfer you to The Oyster Box Hotel.

    Departure Day: There will be two transfers from the hotel to the Cape Town International Airport prior to your departure.

    Optional Add-Ons: Should you wish to extend your trip, we can offer you our discounted hotel rates at time of booking (subject to availability).

  • To protect your travel investment and yourself, we strongly encourage purchasing travel insurance. Allianz is our trusted travel insurance provider and our sister company, VDB Curated Travel, can provide you with an online quote. Just complete this online form!