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Let us have wine and women, mirth and laughter, Sermons and soda water the day after.
[ FROM DON JUAN BY LORD BYRON ]
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With a huge variety of fascinating experiences to explore, South Africa will create a memorable vacation. Imagine game watching the Big Five one day, sipping wine in the vines the next, and hitting the beach the day after. South Africa has a spectacular wine route, a large number of world heritage sites, glamorous resorts, excellent seafood and the wild kingdom in all its glory. It is a place where you can watch whales perform acrobatic moves, and at the same time engage in an ostrich race taking place along the seashore. Africa is a land of beautiful gardens and incredible sunsets. It is a marine wonderland with snorkeling, surfing, boating and diving. It is also an outdoor fortress for those seeking adventure. South Africa has been referred to as The Rainbow Nation; a title which illustrates the countrys cultural diversity. The population is one of the most complex and diverse in the world, with a combination of native Africans, Europeans and Asians (mostly of Indian descent). The African majority is composed of many different ethic groups, the largest of which are Zulu, Xhosa, Tswana and Bapedi, all with their own unique identity and customs. Africa is also thought to be the birthplace of humankind, giving it historical, aesthetic, archaeological, scientific, ethnological and anthropological value. It is the worlds largest outdoor zoo with all creatures living in the wild, fighting for survival. A South African wine vacation will go beyond the boundaries of your wildest dreams.
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South Africas main winegrowing regions are located in the southwestern corner of the country, known as the Cape. But wine and wineries can be found in Morocco, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Ethiopia, Kenya, Tanzania, Madagascar, Reunion, Mauritius, Namibia and Zimbabwe. However, most of these regions are not suitable for growing grapes. Therefore, the fruit or juice is brought in from surrounding areas like Spain, Portugal and France. South Africa is the continents leading wine region, and is ranked seventh in production in the world. Strangely, half of all the grapes are distilled and made into brandy and lesser expensive spirits. Because of South Africas location, a maritime, Mediterranean climate exists, and only occasionally drought and wind pose a problem for the vines. The countrys top wine districts spread out from the old port city of Cape Town. The major grape that is widely planted is Chenin Blanc (called Steen), but many other whites are found such as Cape Riesling, Chardonnay, Hanepoot, Mascadel, Riesling and Sauvignon Blanc. Hanepoot is a very popular ancient grape also known as Muscat of Alexandria. This wine is sweet and is usually fortified. The leading red grape, Cabernet Sauvignon, is found alone but is also used for Bordeaux style blends. Cinsaut is the next most used grape, and has a lighter style also it is
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heady bouquet of fruit (notably banana), it stands as an example of what the best New World wines can offer. Other key red wines are Cabernet Franc, Merlot, and Shiraz or Syrah. South Africas wine regions are Franschhoek, Stellenbosch, Constantia, Elgin, Walker Bay, Paarl, Worcester, Klein Karoo and Mossel Bay. Klein Karoo, also known at Little Karoo, is a region that has long been associated with fortified wines. Its climate is similar to Douro in Portugal, and it houses a number of independent and cooperative wineries. The Paarl District is landlocked and generally quite warm. Classic sparkling wines, port, a hand full of white varietals and Bordeaux reds are the most popular in Paarl. Constantia Ward is historic for sweet wine and is limited in its winegrowing because of the pressures of urban development, as well as the dominating physical presence of two peaks in the Cape Peninsula mountain chain. Sauvignon Blanc is the principal variety, but reds are also grown usually on the warmer, lower ground. The district of Stellenbosch is the hub and the center of South Africas wine industry. It has more private cellars than any other Cape area. It is also the center for viticultural research and training. With varied microclimates, elevations, and soil types, quality wines are easily produced here. Although many vines stretch up the mountain slopes, the lower land is literally carpeted with grapevines. There is a large variety of mixed grapes, both red and white planted in Stellenbosch, but Cabernet Sauvignon is the king. Pinotage is also at its best here. South Africas other districts are also very active in producing great wines. From Cape Town, it does not matter which direction you start your wine journey because you are guaranteed to always find wonderful wines.
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WELCOME
TO CAPE
T OW N
The West Cape or Cape Town is known as the Mother City of Africa. It is an area regarded as one of the most beautiful places in the world. The city is a rare cultural gem, resulting from a diverse population of immigrants, mostly from Indonesia, Western Europe and also the Bushman, Hottentots and Bantu tribes from the north. With the impressive presence of Table Mountain, flanked by the legendary Devil's Peak and historical Signal Hill standing proudly above the city, a vision is planted that is never forgotten. The beautiful white sandy beaches along the peaceful coastlines frame the Cape Peninsula. The peninsula is unique for its floral kingdom, bountiful rivers, and magnificent countryside landscaped with grapevines. Cape Town has a wide range of entertainment, from outdoor activities to its extreme nightlife, with many shopping areas including Green Market Square, sophisticated malls and stylish boutiques. The long list of restaurants including international cuisine, fast food, elegant dinning and posh cafes that feature food reflecting its multicultural history. Cape Town is a setting for
many scenic wonders, awesome seascapes and panoramic vistas. It is a city of culture, with a unique architectural design and structure. The music and dance also perfectly reflect its diverse population. The pleasant Mediterranean climate creates warm gentle summers and cool temperate winters. It is the gateway to the wild, and a magical wine vacation for anytime of year.
Y O U R W I N E TA S T I N G T R I P P L A N N E R
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While creating your upcoming trip to South Africa, it is important for us to know what inspires you. What are your travel dreams, trip goals, and experience expectations for your perfect vacation? Sometimes it helps to put your thoughts down on paper. We have created this guide to help plan the ultimate custom vacation, hand crafted specifically for you and your companions. What are your trip dreams and desires?
S E L E C T A D E S T I N AT I O N ( S )
Specific Cities: ______________________________________________________________________________________ Do you want to visit more than one country? ______________________________________________________________
W H AT A R E Y O U R T R AV E L I N T E R E S T S ?
O Food and Wine O Historical Tours O Hot Air Ballooning O Sailing O Specialty Gastronomy O Helicopter O Performing Arts O Spa & Wellness
O Private Guide O Golf O Specific Wine Types O Big 5 Animals O Rail O Group Travel O Self Drive
O Cape of Good Hope O Regional Festivals O Child Friendly Camps O River Vessels O Art & History O Dinner Reservations O Fall Wine Crush
O Transfers / Airport O Archeological Sites O City Tours O Safari O Picnics O Shopping O Botanical / Gardens
W H AT T Y P E O F W I N E S D O Y O U D R I N K ?
O 7nts / 8days
O 10nts / 11days
O 13nts / 14days
W H AT T Y P E O F A C C O M M O D AT I O N S ?
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O Villas or Homes / Country O City Property / Central O Vineyard Property O River / Ocean View
Did we miss something? Let us know and well make sure to include: ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ Name ________________________________________ Address ______________________________________________ City _______________________State ______ Zip _____________Telephone __________________________________ Email ________________________________ Fax ______________________ No. of Travelers ____ No. of children ____ Travel dates (list alternate dates) _______________________________________________________________________ Traveling with any other couple, group etc.? ________ If so, may we contact them? _______________________________ What is your budget per person? _________________________Special Occasion? ________________________________ Do you want us to handle your airfare? ___________ Carrier Preference? _______________________________________
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Robben Island
Robben Island is a short distance from Cape Town. It is known for its 400-year history of being a place for banishment, exile, and imprisonment. It was also a leper colony and an asylum where Nelson Mandela spent 27 years of his life. Today, it is a fascinating tour that includes a museum. This is a must see for all who visit South Africa. The guides are all former residents who will provide personal accounts of prison life.
We can make it happen. You just tell us when.
World of Birds
Spend a delightful afternoon viewing over 3,000 birds. Enjoy several aviaries, the forest of tropical plants, and African monkeys hard at play. Watch the pelicans and birds of pray during feeding time, or walk up to a rare black eagle. This entertaining center is also home to a number of high-energy Meerkats and Leguwaans. The cafe serves wonderful breakfasts and lunches, and the curio shop is the only place to buy unbelievable bird paraphernalia.
C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY W I T H T H E S E E X T E N S I O N S A N D O P T I O N S !
Botswana Adventure
Botswana is home to some of Africas last great wilderness, including the Okavango Wetlands and the Kalahari Desert. This land-locked nation is centered in Sub-Saharan Africa, with an impressive biodiversity. As in all of Africa, land sustains life. Diamond mining and cattle rearing are the center of Botswana's economic survival. A number of small farmers rely on goats, sheep, beans, peanuts, cottonseed and other dry land crops. With tourism on the rise, Botswana has become the third most visited country in Africa. It is a land of unlimited activities and adventures. A tradition tent safari on the shores of ancient lakes, magical rivers and vast wetlands, is a special kind of a safari. It features spending time on a Mokoro, so close to the waters surface that frogs the size of a fingernail can be identified. Or fish on the earths largest delta, as you reel in a giant tiger fish. If you are crazy about elephants, this is the only place to have an interactive encounter with them in their natural habitat. When the time is right, you will even have an opportunity to ride one. Stay for a day or a week, your guide and everything you need for a luxury safari is included.
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Your individual travel vision is our focus while planning your trip.
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HIGHLIGHTS
Enjoy a welcome wine tasting and lunch. Your personal guide is available throughout your wine vacation, to assist with your dinner reservations, transportation, knowledge and private tours. See amazing views from Table Mountain and The Cape of Good Hope. Enjoy free time to shop and explore the beachfront community of Kalk Bay. Visit the penguin colony of Foxy Beach as you take in an incredible sunset. Walk along a white sandy beach at Cape Point Natural reserve, spotting zebras, ostrich and other wildlife. Stroll through the beautiful vegetation at Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. Spend two nights in the middle of wine country at the posh LAuberge du Francais. Discover the secrets of South African cuisine in your private cooking class. Enhance your wine knowledge as you sip through your private tours, tasting and educational exercises.
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Imagine sipping a glass of South African Pinotage while riding on the back of an elephant. Or sharing your beach walks with a variety of African wildlife frolicking in the surf. Wines in the Wild combines stunning African wine, picturesque scenery, and of course, Africas wild nature. The beautiful city of Cape Town is the perfect base when visiting the wineries of the surrounding land. The vine-
yards fan out from the city in all directions. After a full day of wine tasting, you can return to find unlimited activities to do, such as shopping, exploring the unique city streets and feasting on savory cuisine. This is a perfect itinerary to enjoy South African nature, culture and wine!
C H O O S E T H I S I T I N E R A RY OR C R A F T Y O U R O W N I T I N E R A RY !
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The Itinerary
D A Y O N E : Welcome to South Africa! After arriving in
Johannesburg, you will continue traveling to Cape Town. Cape Town is the jewel of South Africa! Check in relax and get aquainted with the city. Dine at one of the fabulous waterfront restaurants this evening.
D AY F O U R :
Kirschenborsch Botanical Gardeens has over 4000 species of African flowers and other indigenous South African plants. After a morning at the gardens, its time for a private tasting at Groot Constantia, makers of some of the best South African ports. Your day will conclude with tastings of Zevenwacht and Stellenzicht.
Consider a Hot Air Balloon Ride, Golfing along the Ocean, or visiting a Cheetah Rescue Facility. Heading to the North enjoy the spectacular Victoria Falls, while visiting Vic Falls consider a trip to the Okavango Delta of Botswana to the West. After a restful stay in Cape Town venture to the East along the Garden Route outside Port Elizabeth.
Accommodations
Property, location, style, size and amenities chosen based on client specifications.
D A Y S I X : We have arranged a very special African cooking class for you today. Learn about some of Africas most unique cuisine and how to pair it with South African wine. Learn how and why wine really can compliment and enhance food. You will then be guided through a list of wine that can be paired with the meal. The afternoon includes two of the areas most well-known wineries.
This suggested itinerary is based on two people traveling together. A single supplement fee will apply. Cost of itinerary is priced based on dates of travel.
Pricing
Restaurants and meals listed above are recommendations only. Wine Tours of the World handles reservations at top restaurants, small intimate bistros and gourmet dinners at vineyards. Exact meal inclusions and dining reservations will be specified at time of booking based on final trip itinerary.
Meals