At the edge of the continent
Cape Town Extension
Overview
Table Mountain National Park provides the dramatic backdrop to this vibrant, colorful city, set between mountain and ocean. Explore colorful neighborhoods, South Africa’s best vineyards and fine dining in town, observe penguins at the famous Boulders Beach, and visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela’s—and South Africa’s—struggles echo poignantly.
From rugged headlands to golden beaches, Cape Town is a relaxed yet deeply enriching way to conclude your time in Africa.
Gallery
Trip Highlights
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Penguins at Boulders Beach
A private full-day tour of the Cape Peninsula runs the coastal roads to Cape Point Nature Reserve and stops at the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach, where the birds are close enough to photograph well.
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Taste through the Winelands
Spend a day in Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, with oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture, boutique wineries and tastings between vineyards and mountains.
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Robben Island with former inmates
A ferry from the V&A Waterfront reaches the maximum-security prison where Nelson Mandela was held. Parts of the tour are led by men who were imprisoned there.
Itinerary
Itinerary 1 itinerary
Day 1: A quiet evening in Tanzania’s largest city after safari
Fly from Arusha to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s vibrant coastal city along the Indian Ocean.
Transfer to the Johari Rotana Hotel and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure, unwinding after your safari adventure.
Fly from Arusha to Dar es Salaam, Tanzania’s largest city and bustling coastal hub along the Indian Ocean. Upon arrival, you’ll be met and transferred to the Johari Rotana Hotel, a modern retreat in the heart of the city overlooking the waterfront. Settle into your comfortable accommodations and enjoy a relaxing evening at leisure, unwinding after your safari adventures and taking in the vibrant atmosphere of this coastal destination.
Day 2: Arrive in Cape Town for Table Mountain and the waterfront
Fly to Cape Town via Johannesburg, with private gate assistance during your connection and a transfer to your boutique hotel upon arrival.
Discover Cape Town’s spectacular setting, from the towering heights of Table Mountain to its scenic beaches and dramatic coastline.
Explore colorful neighborhoods, stroll along the vibrant waterfront and savor the city’s diverse culinary offerings.
Transfer to the airport for your flight to Cape Town via Johannesburg, where private gate assistance ensures a smooth connection. Upon arrival in Cape Town, you’ll be met and transferred to your boutique hotel, where you can settle in and begin exploring one of South Africa’s most captivating cities.
Nestled between the dramatic slopes of Table Mountain and the sparkling Atlantic Ocean, Cape Town offers an extraordinary blend of natural beauty, vibrant culture and rich history. Take in sweeping views from atop Table Mountain, stroll along the lively waterfront or discover the city’s colorful neighborhoods and thriving culinary scene. From beautiful beaches to rugged coastal landscapes, Cape Town’s striking scenery and diverse experiences make it an unforgettable destination.
Day 3: See African penguins up close at Boulders Beach
Explore the breathtaking Cape Peninsula on a private guided tour, traveling along scenic coastal roads through charming seaside towns and dramatic landscapes.
Visit Boulders Beach to observe a colony of African penguins in their natural habitat among sandy beaches and granite boulders.
Discover Cape Point Nature Reserve, enjoying spectacular ocean views, rugged cliffs and exceptional photography opportunities.
Set out on a private guided tour of South Africa’s spectacular Cape Peninsula, where rugged cliffs, sweeping ocean views and charming seaside towns create one of the world’s most scenic coastal journeys. Travel along winding coastal roads toward Cape Point Nature Reserve, stopping along the way to admire dramatic landscapes, discover picturesque villages and capture unforgettable photographs of the region’s natural beauty.
Visit the famous African penguin colony at Boulders Beach, where these charismatic birds waddle along sandy shores and nest among granite boulders. Observe them in their natural coastal habitat before continuing your exploration of the peninsula. Take in breathtaking viewpoints near the meeting of the Atlantic and Indian Oceans, where towering cliffs and expansive seascapes provide a spectacular backdrop to this memorable day of discovery.
Day 4: Wine tastings in the Cape Dutch towns of Stellenbosch and Franschhoek
Explore the scenic Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyards, dramatic mountain landscapes and charming historic towns create a picturesque countryside escape.
Visit Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, discovering their oak-lined streets, Cape Dutch architecture and rich winemaking heritage.
Enjoy visits to boutique wineries, tastings of exceptional South African wines and opportunities to savor the region’s renowned cuisine.
Venture beyond Cape Town for a leisurely exploration of the picturesque Cape Winelands, where rolling vineyards, majestic mountain peaks and charming historic towns create one of South Africa’s most enchanting landscapes. Journey through the scenic countryside to Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, celebrated for their oak-lined streets, beautifully preserved Cape Dutch architecture and rich winemaking heritage. Discover the region’s fascinating history and soak in the relaxed atmosphere of these inviting towns.
Visit boutique wineries and renowned vineyards, sampling exceptional South African wines while learning about the region’s distinctive grape varieties and winemaking traditions. Along the way, savor opportunities to experience the Cape Winelands’ celebrated culinary scene, where fresh local ingredients and creative cuisine complement the surrounding beauty. With its blend of history, culture, fine wines and spectacular scenery, this leisurely day offers a delightful taste of South Africa’s countryside.
Day 5: Tour Robben Island, led in part by former inmates
Take a ferry from the V&A Waterfront to Robben Island for a guided tour of the former prison where Nelson Mandela was held, learning about South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.
Explore Cape Town on a private guided city tour, discovering historic landmarks, colorful neighborhoods and vibrant local markets.
Visit the iconic Bo-Kaap neighborhood and enjoy sweeping coastal views while learning about the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Begin your day at Cape Town’s vibrant V&A Waterfront, where you’ll board a ferry to Robben Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that played a significant role in South Africa’s struggle against apartheid. Explore the former maximum-security prison where Nelson Mandela was held for 18 years, gaining powerful insights into the country’s turbulent history and journey toward democracy. Led in part by former political prisoners, the guided tour offers a deeply moving perspective on the resilience, courage and determination of those who fought for freedom.
Later, discover Cape Town’s rich cultural heritage on a private half-day city tour. Explore the colorful streets of Bo-Kaap, admire historic landmarks and wander through lively local markets, gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s diverse communities and traditions. Along the way, take in sweeping coastal viewpoints and dramatic scenery as your guide shares stories that bring Cape Town’s fascinating past and vibrant present to life.
Day 6: Depart Cape Town and connect with homeward flights
Transfer to Cape Town International Airport for your onward international flight, concluding your post-safari extension.
Accommodations
Dates, Prices & Info
Extension length and pricing vary based on your travel plans. Contact a Thomson Safari Specialist to explore your options and plan your extension.
Group Size
Extensions are custom additions to your safari itinerary. You may or may not be with other Thomson guests, but you’ll still enjoy small group travel.
What's Included
Your Cape Town extension package includes all accommodations, meals, services of guides and drivers, airport transfers, internal flights, and tours as noted in your itinerary.
Not Included
International airfare, other than flights noted in the itinerary, is not included.
Additional costs may include tips for guides, drivers, and staff, bar beverages, laundry service, phone calls, passport and visa fees, souvenirs, and travel insurance.
Your pre-departure packet includes visa application instructions and information on travel insurance and tipping.
Important Information
A 50% deposit is required to reserve your space. This deposit is non-refundable and non-transferable. Full payment is due 90 days prior to the first land day of the trip.
Notification of cancellation must be made in writing to Thomson Safaris. At the time we receive the cancellation, all moneys will be refunded less the following cancellation charges:
91 days or more before departure: cancellation fees equal the amount of your deposit
90 to 61 days before departure: 50% of the package price is non-refundable
60 to 46 days before departure: 65% of the package price is non-refundable
45 days or less before departure: 100% of the package price is non-refundable
No partial refunds will be given for unused meals, hotel rooms, airport transfers, etc., for any reason whatsoever. Thomson Safaris reserves the right to increase the tour price in the event of cost increases due to changes in airfares, currency fluctuations, park fee increases, fuel surcharges, taxes, etc. Accommodations are subject to change.
Travel Insurance
Thomson strongly encourages you to purchase travel insurance within two weeks of making your deposit to protect your investment, as we are not able to make changes to our cancellation policy for any reason. Travel Guard comes highly recommended by our guests.
Getting There & Getting Home
Cape Town extensions may be scheduled before or after your safari, and may align best with international flights from O.R. Tambo International Airport or Cape Town International Airport. Please check with your safari consultants or trip managers before making any flight arrangements.