March 4, 2018 - VIP Meet & Greet: OR Tambo International Airport

Welcome to Johannesburg! South Africa’s economic hub, the New York of Africa, bursts at the seams with a wealth of art, history and culture. Johannesburg is a fusion of chic sophistication and rustic, inner-city vibe born of Africa’s finest creative minds.

Modern African art meets designer trend and the results are striking. From the inner city walking tours’ street art and graffiti, to the re-invented university suburbs, the rejuvenation exposes a vibrant urban life. Braamfontein’s Constitution Hill, art galleries and restaurants are an example of this regeneration. It is here the continent can express itself and the results are funky, a little off beat and totally captivating.

Upmarket Sandton, Rosebank and Melrose are shopping meccas, with restaurants, and activities easily located beside leafy suburbs. Soweto, once home to South Africa’s most well-loved legend, is an essential part of any visit to Johannesburg. Nelson Mandela’s house, the Hector Pieterson Museum and Regina Mundi Cathedral are part of the historical appeal of any Soweto visit, and the importance of South Africa’s turbulent past and hard won democracy is evident. With the legacy of these heroes, and the modern stadiums which stand in tribute to the importance of local sport, you are sure to see a fascinating side to South Africa.

FAST FACTS

Arrival

* Note that you will likely be required to leave the USA on March 3 to arrive JNB by March 4.

You will be met at the door of your aircraft by an Amani Travel representative with your name on a paging board, then assisted through immigration, baggage collection and customs. You will be shown to your awaiting transfer vehicle. 

Please note: Should your arrival aircraft be directed to the apron and not the terminal, you will be transported to the terminal by bus. As you step off the bus, your Meet and Greet will be waiting for you with the paging board.

Private Transfer: OR Tambo International Airport to Sandton/Rosebank

Depart: Johannesburg, OR Tambo Airport
Arrive: The Peech Hotel

• 16 modern rooms & suites
• Landscaped gardens
• Gym access & pool
• Environmentally friendly
• Active community involvement
• 2 nights at The Peech - Garden Room

Your stay includes: Breakfast, depending on flight arrival time you may be served dinner on the plane or you can dine at the on-site restaurant (dinner additional cost, pay direct)

The Peech is an eco-chic boutique hotel situated in Johannesburg’s upmarket suburb of Melrose. 16 attractive rooms and suites overlook lush, landscaped gardens and some rooms boast private patios or balconies. Contemporary décor, clean lines and modern art combine in style, the spacious interiors equipped for comfort. Delicious meals are served in the bistro and patio, and guests can select their vintages from within the well-stocked wine cellar. The hotel offers gym access to the local fitness centre, or perhaps make use of the outdoor pool during hot summer days. Proud of its progressive policies, The Peech keeps an eye on minimising its environmental impact and participating in responsible community involvement.

March 5, 2018 Johannesburg – By Special Arrangement: Private Full Day Tour

Join James de Laney, a Johannesburg artist and resident with a deep understanding of how this city works, for a day, seeing the metropolis from a variety of angles. His work as both an artist and marketing guru has involved walking the city centre, photographing architectural details and interacting with people on the streets, and it is this connection with the city that he will share with you. James is naturally engaging with people, deeply interested in architecture and political history, and your time with him will be a combination of pre-planned routes according to your interests, and spontaneous meetings with people and events. The real gems are hidden away, like a vintage store in Linden or a patisserie in Parkhurst, bespoke fashion at 44 Stanley or a tour of a 40 acre private garden with Rodin sculptures. And of course markets, the social hubs around which inner city regeneration is happening, such as Neighbourgoods, Market on Main, Fox Street Sheds and Joziburg on weekends.

March 6-9, 2018  Welcome to the Greater Kruger National Park...Timbavati Private Game Reserve

Private Transfer: Sandton/Rosebank to OR Tambo International Airport
Depart: The Peech Hotel
Arrive: Johannesburg, OR Tambo Airport

Excludes flights from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit, see domestic flight costs

Private Transfer: Hoedspruit to Timbavati
Depart: Hoedspruit Airport
Arrive: Geiger’s Camp

As you bump along the park roads, the sun warm upon your face and air dry in the back of your throat, your senses are on high alert. This is the real Africa, cut away from the hectic pace of life, home to Africa’s Big 5. The Kruger is alive, from the nervously twitching herd of impala after a night of predator action, to the wild dog cavorting like domestic pets alongside the road. Marvel as a herd of elephant simply appear from out the bush, then silently vanish back into the landscape.

With over 2 million hectares of pristine wilderness, the Kruger’s biodiversity sustains numerous species of game and birds. The dry north consists of Baobab trees, scrubland and rocky outcroppings which can be seen for miles and animals tend to gather around water sources. As you come south, the park gets busier, animal numbers increase and the backdrop changes to grassland and acacia woodlands.

On the western borders, private reserves such as Sabi Sands and the Timbavati open onto the Kruger, offering an exclusive game experience with the flexibility of night drives and off-road 4 x 4 safaris. Swaying to the movement of an open vehicle while wrapped warmly against the night chills, is an unforgettable experience. The call of a Nightjar darting overhead and the flash of eyes reflected from the bushes brings an entirely different twist to your safari and as you drop your head back and look up – the crisp night skies go on forever.

FAST FACTS

• 2 stone houses (4 en suite rooms)
• Exclusive-use bush villa with river and bushveld views
• Relaxed atmosphere & tranquil setting
• Pool and verandah
• Private dining, library/lounge
• 4 nights at Geiger’s Camp – Our own exclusive African villa!

Your stay includes: All meals daily, local brand drinks (excluding bottled water and energy drinks), 2 daily game drives with refreshments and a guided daily safari walk. Note: drinking water is provided.

Situated in the unspoilt Timbavati, Motswari Geiger’s Camp is a warmly welcoming property ideal for families or small groups requiring seclusion and exclusivity. This down-to-earth lodge provides a relaxed environment in which to enjoy a top game experience with professionally guided game drives and bush walks. 2 stone houses (with a total of 4 rooms, king or twin beds available) offer comfortable, African-style accommodation with naturally furnished interiors and stunning bush views. Socialise around a fireplace in the communal lounge or sip cocktails whilst appreciating the river vistas from the wrap-around patio. Perhaps take respite from the heat of the summer sun in the pool. Delicious meals are served in the lodge or in the bush, under starry skies.

What African wildlife can you expect to spot? The Timbavati is famous for its resident lions and strong wild dog population. The Big Five (rhino, elephant, lion, leopard and buffalo) are abundant in this part of the Reserve, and even if your stay is short, you are sure to encounter all of these amazing animals during your game drives from Geiger’s Camp. Not forgetting the other plains game and the smaller creatures that contribute to this elaborate and ancient natural ecosystem…they are just as fascinating. Geiger’s Camp guides are residents of the area, so along with their extensive scientific knowledge, they have an intimate and passionate bond with the bushveld and its denizens.

The best way to experience the bush is to really slow down and closely observe your surroundings over time, so the game drives are three-and-a-half hours long in open Land Rovers, at sunrise and sunset, ensuring that you’re treated to the loveliest scenes of nature and wildlife that the Timbavati has to offer. Sunsets in Africa are said to be like nowhere else on earth, so the sunset game drives which ease into the evening, are a must, not least because a vast cast of nocturnal wildlife takes the stage, including hyena, honey-badger, civet, bush babies and owls. Birdwatchers, meanwhile, will find a huge array of winged ones to tick off, as there are over 350 bird species to be spotted year-round. Extras included: Conservation Fee daily

March 10, 2018 Welcome to Cape Town...

Private Transfer: Timbavati to Hoedspruit
Depart: Geiger’s Camp
Arrive: Hoedspruit Airport

Excludes flight from Hoedspruit to Cape Town, see domestic flight costs
 Scenically beautiful, Cape Town is a compelling mix of trendy modern and old-world elegance. Glamorous hotels, world-class dining and stunning vistas merge seamlessly with dynamic student suburbs and vibrant nightlife. Malay and African heritage is evident in the cuisine, traditions and entertainment while the architecture reveals a strong Dutch, German and English flavour and style. Contemporary art is proudly displayed in a variety of galleries and modern boutique hotels, and wine bars and brandy tasting lounges will appeal to the fashionable set. For the well-heeled the finest in opera, ballet, drama and music can be appreciated in style.

A short boat cruise to Robben Island, just over seven km’s from Cape Town harbour, you can experience a sense of hopelessness inside the prison cell where South Africa’s most beloved legend, Nelson Mandela spent 27 years doing hard labour. It is difficult to imagine how anyone could rise above the horror of incarceration to become arguably the most iconic and compassionate leader of our era.

An exciting trip up Table Mountain in a cable car provides panoramic views over the “Mother City” and other attractions include the Cultural History Museum, the Castle of Good Hope and the world-renowned Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Greenmarket Square’s local crafts markets and the Bo-Kaap’s colourful Cape Malay buildings add a sense of authenticity to your trip, and Long Street’s vibrant restaurants, bars and clubs come alive after dark. Perhaps wander around the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, a working harbour and hub of entertainment and shopping opportunities.

Transfer and Tailor Made Private Day Tour

On arrival at Cape Town Airport you’ll be met by your dedicated local Capetonian guide and transferred to the hotel to check-in and freshen up. You’ll then be whisked off to a secret sundowner spot. Some nibbles and drinks while the sun sets is the perfect introduction to your urban safari experience. From there, head off into the city to experience it like a local, visiting the more intimate, lesser-known haunts, street side cafes and music venues that the city is so well known for.

Includes: Private guide, gourmet pantry, onboard wifi, Drinks - soft drinks, beer, wine + selected spirit and unlimited travel in and around Cape Town.

FAST FACTS

• 15 contemporary rooms including 1 suite
• A national monument
• Complimentary waterfront transfers
• Evening canapés, port & sherry
• 3 nights at Cape Cadogan Boutique Hotel - Luxury Room

Your stay includes: Breakfast, complimentary scheduled transfers to and from V&A Waterfront and the Cape Town International Convention Centre.

Charmingly historic, this 19th century Georgian and Victorian Building has been proclaimed a national monument. Nestled between Table Mountain and the city centre, the Cape Cadogan is ideally located within easy walking distance of boutique shops, restaurants and bars. Both elegant and bohemian, the 14 rooms and 1 suite offer affordable, luxury accommodation with an outdoor area/balcony and a lounge. The Superior suite includes a kitchen, pool and courtyard. After a busy day discovering Cape Town, relax in the library, lounge or garden and perhaps take a dip in the pool. The Cape Cadogan offers complimentary transfers to the V & A Waterfront, and the Cape attractions can be well-explored from this base.

March 11, 2018 Cape Point & Peninsula Tour: Full Day

Today you will embark on a personalised full day tour of the Cape Peninsula and experience the best of the Cape with your expert guide. Key sights include Cape Point, Boulders Penguin Colony and other must-see attractions as you soak up the area’s fascinating natural diversity and take in panoramic ocean vistas, pristine beaches, towering cliffs, wild bays and quaint seaside enclaves. We’ll explore some boutique wineries in the Constantia region such as Beau Constantia, explore the antique shops of Kalk Bay, enjoy a relaxed picnic lunch at Cape Point Vineyards in Noordhoek (pay lunch direct) and soak in the incredible coastal views of Chapman’s Peak.

Extras included: Guide; Entrance Fees

March 12, 2018 Explore Cape Town

Today is an optional day to explore Cape Town at your leisure – please note these are optional tours at additional cost and at your choice. Complimentary transfers to the V&A Waterfront for shopping, dining and sightseeing are available from the Cape Cadogan Hotel, as well.

Uthando - a morning scheduled tour (approximately $75 per person):
Thando South Africa is our chosen charity in South Africa and serves as an umbrella for a wide range of highly effective community projects across the country. In order to showcase these and also to offer a glimpse into the work being done to uplift the disadvantaged in South Africa, daily excursions are offered to visit the sprawling townships around Cape Town, with particular emphasis on at least three of the social development projects being funded through Uthando.

The uThando tours offer a unique and authentic introduction to the social problems confronting so many millions of South Africans, while also illustrating the innovative and inspirational ways in which they are being handled by these marginalised and destitute communities. Very importantly, the projects are not treated as tourist attractions and the tours are designed in such a way as to educate, inform and inspire while also respecting the dignity and privacy of the people concerned. The projects are, after all, places where people live, work and in most cases, just survive. A portion of the tour cost goes directly to uThando charities.

A private shopping experience (approximately $175 per person, 4 people per vehicle): a half day private tour
Cape Town is a hotbed of cutting-edge design and with its relatively low rentals, the city centre attracts a varied and quirky retail offering, from individually-owned boutiques stocking hand-made garments to high-end African art. One-way Long Street (which becomes two-way Kloof Street as it clambers up the mountain slope) is a good starting point, though happening Bree Street (running parallel to Long Street) is being transformed into a décor and shopping mecca littered with independent boutique merchants. There is no substitute to discovering a city and its shops with a local expert and with limited time and so much to see and buy, the inner-city shopping hub is best discovered in the company of your own personal shopper. Our local expert has her finger on the pulse when it comes to discovering the hidden gems of the Cape Town shopping world and she will tailor your tour based on your specific interests.

March 13 - 14, 2018 Winelands Tour: Full Day

This delightful drive winds its way to the heart of the Cape Winelands, through superb mountain ranges, vineyards and Cape Dutch homesteads. Flanked by the majestic towers of mountains in the Hottentots-Holland, Franschhoek and Wemmershoekberg ranges, the Cape Winelands is the largest wine producing region in the Western Cape and boasts some of the most scenic routes in the world. Today you will have the chance to explore this breath-taking territory and a few of its historic wine estates in the company of a seasoned guide with a passion for all things wine-related. We will focus on off-the-beaten track area of the Swartland which has become the counter-culture of South African winemaking. Think beards and surfboards as opposed to the clipped lawns and Cape Dutch architecture of Stellenbosch…and over the past two decades, the region has grown in stature and complexity. The Winemakers are referred to as the “young guns” of the wine industry and today, there are enough contrasting wineries to showcase a diverse range of wines and styles.
Extras included: Guide; Entrance Fees

Welcome to the Winelands...

An easy drive from Cape Town, the Winelands dramatic mountains stand guard over a quilt of working vineyards, elegant Cape Dutch estates and quaint towns boasting top restaurants, hotels and spas. Sample some of the regions award-winning wine offerings, stroll through exquisitely maintained gardens or explore art galleries and antique shops in the oak-lined streets of the local towns.

The buzzing university village of Stellenbosch was named after the Governor of the Cape, Simon van der Stel and, as the historic hub of the Winelands it is surrounded by around 200 wineries. Spier’s treetop dining platform provides a unique experience and world renowned wines Lanz erac, Simonsig, Neethlingshof, Boschendal and Meerlust are a must for wine tastings. Franschhoek, a charming town with French Hugenot heritage is arguably the culinary headquarters of the country and home to the creative genius of a number of resident chefs. Framed by a majestic backdrop of the Helderberg Mountains, Paarl lies peacefully nestled amongst vineyards laden with the harvest’s finest offerings.

Enjoy gourmet meals lovingly prepared by experienced chefs and served in lush gardens, or stylish restaurants. Sample local wines and explore the cellars of well-established wine farms. The Winelands is all about stepping back from the hectic pace of modern living, and appreciating the finer things in life in some of the most gorgeous and tranquil locations this country has to offer.

FAST FACTS

• 4 classic rooms & 1 suite
• Intimate, hospitable property
• Historic Victorian-era farmhouse
• Beautiful farmlands, wildlife reserve & mountain scenery
• Wide variety of fun activities
• 2 nights at Bartholomeus Klip - Luxury Room

Your stay includes: Early morning coffee and pastries, full country brunch, 4 course dinner, afternoon tea, 2 daily activities, use of mountain bikes, canoes and other facilities.

Bartholomeus Klip is a luxury country hotel on a historic working farm in the scenic Riebeek Valley outside Cape Town. The carefully restored Victorian farmhouse is surrounded by extensive lawns, oaks and flowerbeds as well as verdant wheat fields, sheep pastures and a nature reserve. Intimate and hospitable, the farmhouse affords 4 beautiful bedrooms and an outside suite with a private verandah. Décor is elegantly classic with tasteful furnishings and Victorian bathrooms. The historical main house is filled with antiques and designer fabrics, the wrap-around verandah providing lovely spaces to unwind while absorbing the tranquillity of the region. Gourmet meals are lovingly presented in the conservatory-style dining room.

Please note: Optional Cooking Class available at additional cost.

March 15, 2018 Private Transfer: Paarl to Cape Town Airport

Private Transfer: Paarl to Cape Town Airport
Airport transfer to Cape Town for onward flights. *Note: please purchase your international airfare arriving into JNB and departing from CPT.

Depart: Bartholomeus Klip
Arrive: Cape Town Airport
Extras included: Guided Transfer

- END OF SERVICES -

PER PERSON PRICING

March 4-15, 2018
$5,995 per person sharing twin accommodation (please add 3.5% for payment by Visa/MC/AmEx)
Single supplement on request, availability pending group size

Important notes:

1. This per person rate is estimated and does include a 10% cushion for 2018 rate increases. Pricing is based on 2017 rates and to be confirmed at time of 2018 rate release.
2. Flights are excluded from the Quote:
     - SA1225 ; JNB/HDS ; 10:15/11:20
     - SA1242 ; HDS/CPT ; 13:20/15:55
     - Approx $500 per person (current fares)

Includes:
• E-Docs
• VIP Meet and Greet
• 11 Night’s Accommodation
• Meals as specified
• Transfers and touring as specified
• Activities & entrance fees as specified
• Park Fees / Conservation levies as specified

Excludes:
• International Airfares
• Regional / Internal Airfares
• Park Fees / Conservation levies not specified
• Gratuities
• Items of a personal nature
• International and domestic departure tax (often included in your international airfare)
• Laundry services
• All alcoholic & Non-alcoholic drinks unless otherwise noted
• Meals and excursions not described in the itinerary above
• Travel and health insurance – AMANI RECOMMENDS TRAVELERS PURCHASE INSURANCE
• Any optional tours or excursions not mentioned in the itinerary above
• Gratuities (tips) to guides, hotel staff/porters – AMANI WILL PROVIDE TIPPING GUIDELINES
• Any other items of a personal nature, such as drinks, laundry, telephone and postage.

Travel Insurance
Amani recommends that you purchase a travel protection plan to help protect you and your travel investment against the unexpected. Travel protection plans include coverage for Trip Cancellation, Trip Interruption, Emergency Medical and Emergency Evacuation/Repatriation, Trip Delay, Baggage Delay and more.

For more information on the recommended plans or to enroll, contact Travelex Insurance Services at 800-228-9792 and reference location number 47-0291.

Please Note: To be eligible for the waiver of pre-existing medical condition exclusion, the protection plan must be purchased within 21 days (Travel Select) or 30 days (Travel Max) from the time you make your initial trip deposit. However, the plan can be purchased any time prior to departure.

Pricing and Payments
Your reservation is accepted and confirmed when Amani Travel, LLC (hereafter referred to as Amani) receives the initial trip deposit, Traveler Form, Release of Liability, Terms & Conditions and Diet & Health Form signed by each traveler over the age of 18 years.

A 30% (special group departure requiring additional deposit) non-refundable deposit is required for confirmation. Single supplements are itemized on invoices and will follow the payment schedule outlined in the terms and conditions. Gorilla permits and select activities such as hot air balloon rides and special permits may require full payment at time of booking to confirm. Final payment is due 60 days prior to your trip departure. Failure to remit payment by 30 days prior will be considered cancellation by default and is subject to our standard cancellation penalties. Payments may be made by bank transfer or check to “Amani Travel, LLC.” Credit Cards (Visa, MC, AmEx) can be accepted at an additional 3.5% fee.

In some cases it may be necessary to adjust trip pricing up to 60 days prior to departure to allow for changes in group size (only on set departure trips or private group trips), currency fluctuations in countries that do not operate on the dollar that exceed more than 5%, local government changes to VAT and/or tax rates, or increases on the ground beyond our control such as airfare increases, fuel surcharges, accommodation increases, bed night taxes, increases in optional pre-paid activities such as gorilla permits, hot air balloon rides, over-flights, scenic air tours, camel treks, horseback riding, trekking permits.

Cancellation Fees and Refunds
Trip deposit is due at time of booking to confirm your space. Final balance paid in full is due 60 days prior to trip departure (trip departure is the day of your departure from city of origination). If you cancel before trip departure the below cancellation fees from Amani will apply, plus and non-refundable payments that have been made for services to local hotels and operators. The 30% deposit is non-refundable. All cancelations must be received in writing or by email to Amani.

• Cancel more than 60 days prior to trip departure: loss of 30% non-refundable trip deposit
• Cancel 31-60 days prior to trip departure: loss of 50% of trip cost
• Cancel less than 30 days prior to departure: 100% of trip cost

Please note that cancellation may result in additional cancellation penalties charged by camps, lodges, hotels, local air carriers and ground operators. Wildlife viewing permits such as gorilla and chimp permits are non-refundable. No refunds will be given for unused day tours or portion of your trip, unless otherwise stated and/or cancelled under local conditions that warrant refund. In accordance with Washington state law and except as otherwise provided in our cancellation terms, if transportation or other services are cancelled by Amani, all sums paid to us for services not performed in accordance with these Terms will be refunded within thirty days of receiving the funds from the supplier with whom the services were arranged, or if the funds were not sent to the supplier, the funds shall be returned within fourteen days after cancellation by us to you unless you request that we apply the money to another travel product and/or date.

Full terms & conditions are available at http://amani.travel/terms.html