THE BEST OF THE EASTERN CAPE
This itinerary combines the best of what the Eastern Cape has to offer; Karoo experience, safari and beach. Easy access to these uique experiences makes this the perfect self drive itinerary.
WE RECOMMEND:
9 nights in total combing 3 nights karoo experience at Mount Camdeboo, 3 nights safari at Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge and 3 nights beach and spa at Prana Lodge.
BEST TIME OF YEAR TO VISIT:
ALL YEAR – Special offers are from May-September 2011
DAY 1
On arrival at Port Elizabeth Airport hire a car and drive the 3 hour scenic route to Mount Camdeboo, Great Karoo. Steeped with history, rugged plateaus and breath taking views, Mount Camdeboo is the ultimate Karoo experience. Arrive in time to relax and enjoy an afternoon tea before departing on the evening game drive. This region was once teaming with game but over farming and land degradation caused excessive loss in biodiversity. Mount Camdeboo is committed to restoring this fragile ecosystem and providing a refreshing insight into their means of conservation. The reserve is currently home to cheetah, white rhino, cape buffalo, giraffe, endangered mountain zebra, wild cats, sable, a host of antelope, birds of prey and a unique collection of fauna and flora. After an evening game drive return to the homestead, freshen up and enjoy a spectacular dinner prepared by the local chef.
We recommend to stay 3 nights at Mount Camdeboo
DAYS 2 & 3
Enjoy early morning game drives to track the resident cheetah and visit old battle sites. Return to the lodge for a late delicious breakfast. Spend the remainder of the afternoon relaxing by the pool, reading a book or enjoy the surroundings by going on a short bike ride or walk. Enjoy a late lunch before departing on the evening game drive.
DAY 4
After a morning game drive followed by breakfast depart for Big 5 Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge, 3 hours drive. Situated on a Private Game Reserve Kichaka is a fabulous intimate safari experience. The typical Eastern Cape safari vegetation is a fantastic contrast to the rugged and expansive plains of the Karoo. Arrive at Kichaka refresh and relax before an afternoon tea and departure on the evening game drive. After the safari return to the lodge to enjoy a superb locally influenced dinner.
We recommend to stay 3 nights at Kichaka Luxury Game Lodge
DAYS 5 & 6
Wake early for a game drive and experience the reserve in the glow
of the morning sunlight. Return for a late breakfast and enjoy the rest of the day relaxing by private plunge pools or main pool area. Opt for a late afternoon spa treatment in the luxury of your private room to fully unwind. Afternoon lunch and tea is followed by the evening game drive and sundowners. Return for a lovely meal and an early night.
DAY 7
Wake early for the morning game drive or sleep in and relax. Enjoy a late breakfast before departing for the warm waters of Chintsa Bay and Prana Lodge, 3 hours drive. Prana Lodge boutique hotel and spa is the ideal end to a safari itinerary. With direct access to the magnificent Chintsa Bay, each room with private plunge pool and a fabulous Thai spa with professional Thai therapists, Prana is ideal for rest and relaxatio.
We recommend to stay 3 nights at Prana Lodge
DAYS 8 & 9
Take an early mornin
g walk on the endless Chintsa beach before a fantastic fresh breakfast. Relax by the pool or head to the beach before lunch. Book into the spa for the afternoon and enjoy a range of treatments by Thai therapists. After the pampering session freshen up before a fresh and innovative dinner, perfect for the location!
DAY 10
After a leisurely morning breakfast drive 40 minutes to East London Airport to drop off the car and fly out.