Personalized trips to South Africa
for independent travelers

Our stay at Pioneers Lodge in Victoria Falls was wonderful! It delivered the ideal combination; it has all the great amenities of a large hotel, while retaining all the quaintness, warmth, and character of a small, intimate property. Some Highlights: Gorgeous Design: the design and ambiance of the lodge are full of charm. It has a historical luxury vibe that is really lovely. Spacious Family Room: We stayed in a family room that worked brilliantly for the four of us. It was beautiful, clean, comfortable, and gave us all plenty of space to relax. Lovely Courtyard & Pools: The property centers around a beautiful, lush courtyard. The family loved having access to two great swimming pools, which were perfect for cooling off after a long day of sightseeing. Additionally, the daily breakfast was fantastic, and the bar area offered a wonderful, relaxed atmosphere to unwind with a drink in the evenings. Lastly, the staff were warm and accommodating. They went out of their way to make us feel welcome. Every interaction was met with genuine friendliness and great hospitality.

You simply cannot top the location. Being situated right on the V&A Waterfront meant were steps away from great dinning and shopping along with beautiful views of Table Mountain and the harbor. It made exploring Cape Town feel completely safe, easy, and stress-free. A few highlights: Amazing Breakfast: The morning breakfast spread was absolutely delicious—fresh, high-quality, and offered something wonderful for every palate before a full day of sightseeing. I highly recommend opting to have breakfast at the hotel. Accommodating Staff: The hospitality was top-notch. The staff was incredibly warm, welcoming, and eager to help with anything we needed to make our stay seamless. Beautiful Property: The hotel itself is clean, modern, and has elegant interiors, and comfortable, stylish rooms.

Our stay at Ivory Wilderness River Rock Lodge was nothing short of magical from start to finish. Everything about the property met and exceeded our expectations, creating an authentic and high-end bush experience we will never forget. Beautiful Property, Great Rooms & Delicious Food The lodge itself is stunning, perfectly nestled in the bush with peaceful surroundings and incredible views. The Rooms: Spacious, comfortable, clean, and beautifully appointed to blend luxury with nature. The Food: Absolutely delicious! Every single meal served was fresh, flavorful, and memorable. Phenomenal Game Drives with Ingrid While the accommodations and meals were top-tier, what truly made our trip extraordinary were the game drives. Our guide, Ingrid, was outstanding. Her expertise and tracking skills are amazing, she had an incredible knack for finding wildlife and tracking down unforgettable sightings. Just as importantly, Ingrid tailored the entire safari experience to suit our family group, which included teenagers. Keeping kids fully engaged for hours on end can be hard, but Ingrid connected with everyone effortlessly, catered to our group's pace and interests, and made every single drive thrilling and educational.

We stayed at 58 On Hume as part of our African itinerary planned through KimKim (organized by Anne Marie and Janneke), and it completely blew us away! It was the absolute perfect home base in Johannesburg. To say the hotel exceeded our expectations would be an understatement. The rooms were spectacular: spacious, stylish, spotless, and far nicer than we could have ever anticipated. But what truly set 58 On Hume apart was the incredible team. The staff was accommodating, treating us with such genuine warmth and attentiveness that we felt completely pampered from the moment we arrived. The food was perfect. The entire property feels like a peaceful, luxurious oasis in the city—offering plenty of space and comfort for both the adults and teenagers in our group.

Absolutely amazing experience that shouldn't be missed. It provided a historical context and understanding that was really amazing. The guides were wonderful and kind.

We LOVED Moremi Crossing and the Okavango Delta! The trip to the camp from the air strip wasn't bad, about 15 minutes via Land Cruiser and boat. Loved having our tent cabin right on the water and watching the elephants wander by. The central meeting area was lovely though large and had great small sitting areas for looking out over the water but the size also meant it wasn't as conducive to meeting folks. It was family style eating but you sat with your land cruiser team and your guide. Really enjoyed the bonfire and drinks before dinner.

We loved this lodge! The central meeting/gathering space was warm and cozy and helped facilitate interactions among the guests. Eating was family style, but you sat where ever you wanted at the available tables so you weren't limited to the folks you may be traveling with in your land cruiser. You could also opt for a meal outdoors on your own if you wanted to - overlooking the river. Room was very comfortable and spacious. The drive into the park was about 15 minutes but you often passed wildlife along the way.

This hotel exceeded our expectations! Centrally located and a wonderful chill vibe with great indoor and outdoor space. Wish we had had a few more hours to enjoy it more. Easy walk to Victoria Falls and a great craft market next door to the hotel.

While we really liked this lodge itself and the staff, we didn't like that you had to pay extra for several things that the other lodges we stayed in included as part of the overall cost. More specifically, you had to pay $80 per person for a 90 minute bush walk which I think was extremely over priced for what you got (we did it) and I would not recommend doing it (especially if you were going elsewhere where it is provided for free), for individual drinks (sodas and alcohol), and for laundry (which was very pricey). Having been to two other lodges that covered these items, I would definitely pick a lodge in the future that covered these costs.

Very conveniently located at the V&A waterfront. Very spacious and comfortable rooms and helpful staff. Good breakfast options as part of the stay. While we really enjoyed the V&A waterfront, it has a touristy feel, even with plenty of locals walking around. You have easy access to the Robben Island ferry, the Watershed market full of local crafts and the fabulous Oranjezicht City Farmers Market filled with great food and local shops. Perfect place for breakfast and lunch overlooking the Atlantic.

We finished our last hours in the Delta by going on a Mokoro ride followed by a bush walk. We loved it! The mokoro ride was a unique experience. So peaceful and interesting to see the delta from low on the water. I liked that it was combined with a bush walk too.

We loved the sunrise safari! We were the only two passengers aboard and rather than going downriver toward the falls we opted to go upriver to see more wildlife and birds. Tons of hippos. Beautiful kingfishers and other African birds. Plus a bunch of elephants too.

While we were really glad to go to Robben Island and learn about it's history, we were disappointed that our time there was very structured by the official guide and didn't leave much time to wander or contemplate in our own way all that happened there. Hearing from a former prisoner was fascinating though while listening to him talk for at least 45 minutes, you are sitting on hard benches in one room and there wasn't, I don't think, the opportunity to ask questions. After listening to him, we were rushed through the area where Mandela was housed with barely a moment to look in. Now, what I don't know is whether we were being rushed because of the worsening seas outside and they wanted us off the island or if this is the regular schedule.

Loved traveling down the Cape Peninsula and seeing the Boulder penguins and the other cute seaside towns along the way. Views of the Cape of Good Hope were fabulous. Enjoyed seeing the wildlife in the park along the way, including our first baboons and ostriches.

The Victoria & Alfred Hotel was an excellent choice for our stay in Cape Town. Its location at the V&A Waterfront was incredibly convenient, with restaurants, shops, and attractions within easy walking distance. It also served as a great base for our tours of Table Mountain, the Cape Peninsula, the Winelands, and Hermanus. The hotel was comfortable and welcoming, and the staff went above and beyond to make our group feel at home. Everyone we encountered was friendly, helpful, and attentive. We especially appreciated being able to return to such a relaxing and conveniently located hotel after our full days of sightseeing. We would gladly recommend the Victoria & Alfred Hotel to anyone visiting Cape Town.

Our four-night journey aboard Rovos Rail from Victoria Falls to Pretoria was a unique and memorable experience. The train’s classic elegance made us feel as though we had stepped back into a more glamorous era of travel. The staff went above and beyond throughout the journey. They were warm, attentive, and professional, and they worked hard to make every guest feel special. We enjoyed relaxing onboard, spending time together, and watching the changing landscapes of southern Africa pass by. Rovos Rail is far more than simply transportation—it’s an immersive experience in its own right. The leisurely pace invited us to slow down, savor each moment, and truly appreciate the journey rather than rushing toward our next destination. It became a highlight of our South African adventure, leaving us with lasting memories.

Victoria Falls River Lodge was a wonderful part of our trip. Its beautiful setting offered the perfect combination of relaxation, nature, and adventure while visiting Victoria Falls. The accommodations were exceptionally comfortable, and the entire staff surpassed our expectations in making our group feel welcome. Every team member was warm, attentive, and genuinely dedicated to creating a memorable stay. We took part in all three activities offered by the lodge—boat excursions, exhilarating safaris, and a guided tour of Victoria Falls—which allowed us to fully immerse ourselves in the area's breathtaking natural beauty. One thing travelers should be aware of is that guests must be transported by golf cart between the main lodge and their rooms. Although the staff was always happy to assist, this required some planning whenever we wanted to leave or return to our room. Overall, our time at Victoria Falls River Lodge was unforgettable, and we would highly recommend it to anyone visiting Victoria Falls.

Our stay at Simbavati Hilltop Lodge was one of the highlights of our trip. The lodge’s beautiful setting in the Timbavati Game Reserve made it the perfect place to experience the South African bush. The safari game drives were unforgettable, and the guides went above and beyond to make each outing special. Everyone at the lodge was warm, attentive, and genuinely committed to making our group feel welcome. Their kindness and excellent service made our stay even more memorable. Simbavati Hilltop Lodge provided an incredible safari experience that we will always treasure. We would highly recommend it to anyone looking for a special and unforgettable stay in South Africa.

The hotel's location made our arrival easy and stress-free, especially after a long day of travel. We were able to settle in quickly without dealing with a lengthy transfer, and it was equally convenient when it was time to continue our journey. This hotel is an excellent option for anyone needing a comfortable and convenient stay near O.R. Tambo International Airport.

Our safari in the Timbavati Game Reserve was an unforgettable experience and one of the biggest highlights of our entire trip. We were thrilled to see all of the Big Five—lion, leopard, elephant, rhinoceros, and buffalo—in their natural environment. Each game drive offered something different, and Golden and Nkosi were knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and deeply respectful of the animals. They went above and beyond to locate the wildlife, explain animal behavior, and ensure that everyone in our group had a great view. Seeing the Big Five was a dream come true, and the entire safari exceeded our expectations. It gave us memories that will last a lifetime, and we would highly recommend the Timbavati Game Reserve to anyone visiting South Africa.

Checking in for Rovos Rail at the train station was smooth and well organized. The staff welcomed us warmly, handled our luggage, and clearly explained what to expect before boarding. The attentive service began the moment we arrived and immediately set the tone for the journey. The check-in process felt relaxed and personal, building our excitement for the experience ahead. It was a wonderful start to our Rovos Rail adventure.

The food aboard Rovos Rail was exceptional and an important part of the overall experience. Each meal was beautifully prepared and presented, with a wonderful variety of dishes throughout our journey. Dining in the elegant dining car made every meal feel like a special occasion. The service was attentive and professional, and the staff went above and beyond to accommodate our group and make us feel welcome. The delicious food, beautiful presentation, excellent service, and classic atmosphere made dining aboard Rovos Rail a truly memorable experience.

This safari excursion through Rovos Rail was another memorable part of our journey. The highlight was seeing a mother rhinoceros with her baby in their natural environment. It was a beautiful and touching sight that our entire family will always remember. Our guide was knowledgeable and attentive, helping us spot wildlife and sharing interesting information about the animals and the surrounding area. Seeing the baby rhino alongside its mother made this excursion truly special.

The safari excursion during our Rovos Rail journey was a wonderful addition to the experience. The highlight was seeing two cheetahs in their natural environment—an incredible and unforgettable sight for our entire family. Our guide was knowledgeable and worked hard to help us spot wildlife while sharing interesting information about the animals and the surrounding area. The excursion gave us another opportunity to enjoy the beauty and wildlife of southern Africa while traveling aboard Rovos Rail. Seeing the two cheetahs made this a truly special and memorable outing.

The gorge swing was an exciting and unforgettable adventure for those who participated. The staff was professional, encouraging, and focused on safety, which helped everyone feel confident before taking the leap. Watching them swing through the gorge was thrilling for the rest of us as well. It was a fun experience for our entire group—even though only half of us were brave enough to do it!

Because of our limited time, we chose to visit the Winelands as a day trip from Cape Town rather than stay overnight in the area. This turned out to be an excellent way to experience South Africa’s beautiful wine country while keeping the rest of our itinerary on schedule. The scenery was gorgeous, and we enjoyed exploring the vineyards at a relaxed and comfortable pace. Our private guide was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to everyone in our group. The wine tastings were enjoyable and informative, and the included lunch was a lovely addition to the day. The combination of beautiful vineyards, excellent wine, delicious food, and outstanding service made this a memorable excursion. A full-day tour is a great option for travelers who want to experience the Winelands but do not have time for an overnight stay.

Our four-night journey aboard Rovos Rail from Victoria Falls to Pretoria was a unique and memorable experience. The train’s classic elegance made us feel as though we had stepped back into a more glamorous era of travel. The staff went above and beyond throughout the journey. They were warm, attentive, and professional, and they worked hard to make every guest feel special. We enjoyed relaxing onboard, spending time together, and watching the changing landscapes of southern Africa pass by. Rovos Rail is much more than transportation—it is an experience in itself. The leisurely pace gave us time to unwind and enjoy the journey rather than simply rushing to the next destination. It was a wonderful and distinctive part of our South African adventure.

The activities offered by Victoria Falls River Lodge added so much to our stay. They were well organized and gave us a wonderful opportunity to experience the area’s wildlife, scenery, and natural beauty. Billy, our guide, was exceptional. He was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, and he went above and beyond to make every experience enjoyable and memorable for our group. His enthusiasm and knowledge of the area made our activities even more special. We especially appreciated the balance between adventure and time to relax and take in the surroundings. Billy and the lodge team helped make our visit to Victoria Falls truly unforgettable.

The safari exceeded our expectations and gave us memories that will last a lifetime. We would highly recommend a safari in the Timbavati Game Reserve to anyone visiting South Africa.

Our safari in the Timbavati Game Reserve was an unforgettable experience and one of the biggest highlights of our entire trip. Being surrounded by the beauty of the South African bush and observing wildlife in its natural environment was truly remarkable. Each game drive offered something different, and Golden (our guide) and Nkosi (our tracker) were knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and made it their goal for us to see the Big Five . They went above and beyond to find wildlife, explain animal behavior, and ensure that everyone in our group had a great view and an enjoyable experience. The safari exceeded our expectations and gave us memories that will last a lifetime. We would highly recommend a safari in the Timbavati Game Reserve to anyone visiting South Africa.

Our full-day Cape Peninsula tour was one of the highlights of our time in Cape Town. The coastal scenery was breathtaking, and the tour gave us a wonderful opportunity to experience the peninsula's natural beauty and variety. Zane, our private guide, was friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive to our group of six. We appreciated being able to enjoy the day at a comfortable pace while learning about the area’s history, wildlife, and landmarks. The tour was well organized, and the included lunch made the day especially convenient. It was a full but enjoyable day filled with beautiful views and memorable stops. We would highly recommend this tour to anyone visiting Cape Town.

The whale-watching cruise by Southern Right Charters provided an unforgettable experience and a wonderful addition to our time in the Cape Town area. Seeing whales in their natural environment was truly special, and the beautiful coastal scenery made the excursion even more enjoyable. The crew was friendly, knowledgeable, and professional. They worked hard to help everyone spot the whales while also sharing interesting information about the marine life in the area. We felt safe and well cared for throughout the cruise. This was a memorable experience that we would highly recommend to anyone visiting during whale season.

Our private half-day Cape Town and Table Mountain tour was a wonderful introduction to the city. Traveling as a group of six, we appreciated the comfort and flexibility of having a private guide. Our guide, Zane, was friendly, knowledgeable, and went above and beyond to make the tour interesting and enjoyable. We learned about Cape Town’s history and culture while seeing some of its most notable sights. Table Mountain was an unforgettable highlight, with spectacular views of the city and surrounding coastline. The tour was well organized and fit an impressive amount into half a day without feeling rushed. We would highly recommend it to anyone wanting a memorable introduction to Cape Town.