Day 1 — Depart the U.S.

Smithsonian Journeys travelers depart the U.S. for London via overnight air service.

Important Note: This itinerary is based on air schedules provided by British Airways. Air schedules are subject to change. If you plan to purchase the land program only and/or use an alternative airline to Cape Town, please notify the tour operator as it may affect your departure date from the U.S. Transfers from the airport to the hotel in Cape Town are included for those who purchase air through the tour operator and those who are able to meet the arrival of the group flight.

Day 2 — London in Transit

After a morning arrival at London’s Heathrow International Airport, check-in at the Sofitel London Heathrow Hotel, where dayrooms have been reserved for your comfort and convenience between flights. This only applies to travelers purchasing Air through the tour operator. This evening, depart refreshed and rested for the overnight flight to Cape Town, South Africa.

Day 3 — Cape Town

Arrive at Cape Town International Airport. After clearing brief Immigration and Customs formalities you’ll be met by your Smithsonian Journeys Travel Director and assisted with transfer to your hotel, the deluxe and distinguished Belmond Mt. Nelson Hotel. The balance of the day will be at leisure to relax and settle in. This evening, gather with fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers for a welcome reception at the hotel. (R)

Day 4 — Cape Town

A full English breakfast will be served each morning during your stay. This morning drive to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Travel along the spectacular Marine Drive and pass the unique mountain landscape featuring Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles, a line of small peaks that run along the coast. Ascend Cape Point by funicular and marvel at remarkable ocean views. Stop at Boulders Beach and see the African Penguin Colony. A luncheon stop will be made on the Cape Peninsula during the excursion. Return to the hotel where the remainder of the afternoon is free of planned activities. In early evening, you’re invited to attend a presentation that will highlight the key events in the history of this amazing country. You’ll learn about the Dutch and British colonization, the introduction of slavery, the struggle of native tribes, discovery of gold and diamonds, and more. (B,L) 

Day 5 — Cape Town

For nearly 400 years, isolated Robben Island was a place of exile and now it is designated a World Heritage site. Travel by boat to the island and visit the former prison where the late Nelson Mandela was held from 1964 to1982. A former inmate will offer fascinating narrative and first-hand knowledge about life on the island. See the island’s lime quarry and the local village.

After returning to Cape Town, there’s leisure time for lunch on an independent basis. Later, begin exploring Cape Town on an excursion that showcases the city’s historical highlights including Company Gardens, Bo Kaap and the Castle of Good Hope. Continue to the top of Table Mountain (weather permitting) for awesome views of Cape Town, Table Bay and the Cape of Good Hope. The balance of the day is free of planned activities so you can follow your own path. (B)

Day 6 — Cape Town / Kapama Nature Reserve

Begin the day with a flight from Cape Town to Hoedspruit, gateway to Kapama Nature Reserve. Lunch is served upon arrival at the five-star Kapama River Lodge. In the late afternoon, board an open-air safari vehicle for an introduction to the African Bushveld and get acquainted with your ranger and tracker who will accompany you on each safari drive. Before dinner, meet in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner for lively conversation and to exchange today’s experiences. Afterwards, dinner will be served al fresco on the deck. (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Kapama Nature Reserve

Each day on safari starts at dawn with a wakeup call from the lodge ranger. Meet on the deck for early-bird coffee and toast before climbing into your safari vehicle. As you drive along, it may seem quiet, but there is plenty of activity. Many animals are just waking up and in search of breakfast. Others spent the night on the prowl and searching for a cool spot where they can sleep during the day. See how many of the Big Five you can spot this morning. During each morning drive, stop for coffee or tea. Return to the lodge for a hearty English breakfast. The balance of the morning is free to relax and enjoy a leisure activity. This afternoon, enjoy a presentation by a local Kapama naturalist. Set-out for a late afternoon drive to gain a different perspective of the animal life in the reserve. As the sun sets, stop for a round of drinks, aptly called “sundowners.” Return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner under the stars. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Kapama Nature Reserve

There’s another day of wildlife viewing with early morning and late afternoon drives. Searching for wildlife is exhilarating, and rich with new sights and experiences at every turn. After the afternoon drive, return to the lodge in time for dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 9 — Hoedspruit / Johannesburg

Drive from Kapama to the airport at Hoedspruit for the hour-long flight to Johannesburg, the third largest city in Africa. Upon arrival, drive to Soweto where lunch will be served. Afterwards, tour Soweto Township, past the homes of Nelson Mandela, Winnie Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Drive to Kliptown for a visit to a local youth project. Continue to your hotel where overnight accommodations have been reserved. Join fellow travelers in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner. (B,L)

Day 10 — Pretoria / Rovos Rail Train

After breakfast, depart the hotel and drive to the Rovos Rail Station in Pretoria and board one of the most luxurious trains in the world bound for Victoria Falls. It’s reminiscent of an era of elegant simplicity and gracious service. Enjoy the distinctive character and charm of Rovos Rail’s classic, refurbished wood-paneled coaches. Following luncheon, the train crosses the Tropic of Capricorn and the Limpopo River. Meals aboard Rovos Rail are always a treat. This evening, enjoy fine cuisine accompanied by a selection of excellent South African wines. All meals, house brand spirits, beer, and wine are included onboard throughout the day and with meals. Gather with fellow travelers in the observation lounge car and revel in the breathtaking landscapes of southern Africa. Your “rail safari” travels north toward Zimbabwe through West Nicholson on the way to Messina and Beitbridge for the border-crossing into Zimbabwe. (B,L,D)

Day 11 — Rovos Rail Train

Travel through remarkable landscapes toward Bulawayo via Colleen Bawn and Gwanda and continue the journey for an overnight stop at Mpopoma. (B,L,D)

Day 12 — Rovos Rail Train

The journey continues, this morning, between Gwaai and Dete on one of the world’s longest runs of straight railroad track to Kennedy Siding. From here, you’ll leave the train for a wildlife viewing at The Hide in Hwange National Park. The train will overnight at Thompson’s Junction. (B,L,D)

Day 13 — Victoria Falls / Chobe National Park

This morning, disembark the train and transfer to the historic Victoria Falls Hotel. This afternoon, tour Victoria Falls, a remarkable place where the Zambezi River plunges 328 ft. into the basalt Batoka Gorge below, creating a mist that can be seen for 50 miles around. Dr. David Livingstone was, in 1855, the first European to arrive at the falls and named them for England’s queen. Victoria Falls is the earth’s largest curtain of water spanning more than a mile. (B)

Day 14 — Victoria Falls / Chobe National Park

After an early English breakfast, set out on a full-day safari to explore Chobe National Park, one of the most famous parks in southern Africa. Be on the lookout for lions, leopards, giraffe, impala, and baboons. During the drive, it’s likely to see several herds of elephants wandering the savanna or stopping at the river for a drink or a bath. The immense bird population of more than 460 species, makes Chobe a favored destination for birdwatchers from the world over.

After lunch, take a leisurely cruise on the Chobe River for a chance to spot hippos, crocodiles and other animals along this life-giving waterway. Later this evening, join fellow Smithsonian Journeys Travelers for a festive farewell dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 15 —Victoria Falls / Johannesburg

Later this morning, transfer by motor coach to the Victoria Falls Airport. There, board the flight to Johannesburg and connecting flights to the U.S. (B)

Important Note: The flight to Johannesburg is not included in the land only tour cost. The land tour ends at Victoria Falls Airport. Land Only travelers can purchase flights to Johannesburg from the tour operator.

In some cases air schedules are such that travelers return to their U.S. gateway cities on Day 16. 

Please note: Due to operational considerations, the progression of this itinerary may be changed without prior notice.

Day 1 — Depart the U.S.

Smithsonian Journeys travelers depart the U.S. for London via overnight air service.

Important Note: This itinerary is based on air schedules provided by British Airways. Air schedules are subject to change. If you plan to purchase the land program only and/or use an alternative airline to Cape Town, please notify the tour operator as it may affect your departure date from the U.S. Transfers from the airport to the hotel in Cape Town are included for those who purchase air through the tour operator and those who are able to meet the arrival of the group flight. 

Our July 2025 itinerary spends (4) four nights aboard the Rovos Rail train, instead of three, all other program features are the same.

Day 2 — London in Transit

After a morning arrival at London’s Heathrow International Airport, check-in at the Sofitel London Heathrow Hotel, where dayrooms have been reserved for your comfort and convenience between flights. This only applies to travelers purchasing Air through the tour operator. This evening, depart refreshed and rested for the overnight flight to Cape Town, South Africa.

Day 3 — Cape Town

Arrive at Cape Town International Airport. After clearing brief Immigration and Customs formalities you’ll be met by your Smithsonian Journeys Travel Director and assisted with transfer to your hotel, the deluxe and distinguished Belmond Mt. Nelson Hotel. The balance of the day will be at leisure to relax and settle in. This evening, gather with fellow Smithsonian Journeys travelers for a welcome reception at the hotel. (R)

Day 4 — Cape Town

A full English breakfast will be served each morning during your stay. This morning drive to the Cape Point Nature Reserve. Travel along the spectacular Marine Drive and pass the unique mountain landscape featuring Table Mountain and the Twelve Apostles, a line of small peaks that run along the coast. Ascend Cape Point by funicular and marvel at remarkable ocean views. Stop at Boulders Beach and see the African Penguin Colony. A luncheon stop will be made on the Cape Peninsula during the excursion. Return to the hotel where the remainder of the afternoon is free of planned activities. In early evening, you’re invited to attend a presentation that will highlight the key events in the history of this amazing country. You’ll learn about the Dutch and British colonization, the introduction of slavery, the struggle of native tribes, discovery of gold and diamonds, and more. (B,L) 

Day 5 — Cape Town

For nearly 400 years, isolated Robben Island was a place of exile and now it is designated a World Heritage site. Travel by boat to the island and visit the former prison where the late Nelson Mandela was held from 1964 to1982. A former inmate will offer fascinating narrative and first-hand knowledge about life on the island. See the island’s lime quarry and the local village.

After returning to Cape Town, there’s leisure time for lunch on an independent basis. Later, begin exploring Cape Town on an excursion that showcases the city’s historical highlights including Company Gardens, Bo Kaap and the Castle of Good Hope. Continue to the top of Table Mountain (weather permitting) for awesome views of Cape Town, Table Bay and the Cape of Good Hope. The balance of the day is free of planned activities so you can follow your own path. (B)

Day 6 — Cape Town / Kapama Nature Reserve

Begin the day with a flight from Cape Town to Hoedspruit, gateway to Kapama Nature Reserve. Lunch is served upon arrival at the five-star Kapama River Lodge. In the late afternoon, board an open-air safari vehicle for an introduction to the African Bushveld and get acquainted with your ranger and tracker who will accompany you on each safari drive. Before dinner, meet in the Smithsonian Journeys Travelers Corner for lively conversation and to exchange today’s experiences. Afterwards, dinner will be served al fresco on the deck. (B,L,D)

Day 7 — Kapama Nature Reserve

Each day on safari starts at dawn with a wakeup call from the lodge ranger. Meet on the deck for early-bird coffee and toast before climbing into your safari vehicle. As you drive along, it may seem quiet, but there is plenty of activity. Many animals are just waking up and in search of breakfast. Others spent the night on the prowl and searching for a cool spot where they can sleep during the day. See how many of the Big Five you can spot this morning. During each morning drive, stop for coffee or tea. Return to the lodge for a hearty English breakfast. The balance of the morning is free to relax and enjoy a leisure activity. This afternoon, enjoy a presentation by a local Kapama naturalist. Set-out for a late afternoon drive to gain a different perspective of the animal life in the reserve. As the sun sets, stop for a round of drinks, aptly called “sundowners.” Return to the lodge for a sumptuous dinner under the stars. (B,L,D)

Day 8 — Kapama Nature Reserve

There’s another day of wildlife viewing with early morning and late afternoon drives. Searching for wildlife is exhilarating, and rich with new sights and experiences at every turn. After the afternoon drive, return to the lodge in time for dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 9 – Kapama / Johannesburg

Transfer from Kapama Nature Reserve to Hoedspruit for your flight to Johannesburg. Upon arrival in Johannesburg, enjoy lunch followed by an afternoon tour of Soweto Township, driving past the homes of Nelson Mandela, Winnie Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Afterwards, drive to Kliptown for a tour of a local youth project.  Continue to the hotel. Get together late in the afternoon in the Travelers Corner for lively conversation. This evening dinner will be at your leisure. (B,L)  

Note: Due to possible changes in air scheduling the Soweto Township tour may move to the morning of Day 10.

Day 10 – Johannesburg / Pretoria / Rovos Rail

At the appropriate hour, depart the hotel and transfer to the Rovos Rail terminal for the departure for Zimbabwe. Guests may wish to join fellow travelers in the midway lounge car or observation car at the rear of the train. The train travels north through Warmbaths and Nylstroom. Dinner is served in the dining car enroute to Polokwane. (B,L,D)

Day 11 – Rovos Rail

The train crosses the Tropic of Capricorn enroute to Louis Trichardt. Lunch is served in the dining car prior to clearing frontier formalities with South Africa. Tea is served in the midway lounge car or observation car at the rear of the train. The train crosses the Limpopo River enroute to Beitbridge to clear border formalities with Zimbabwe. Dinner is served in the dining car enroute to Gwanda. (B,L,D)

Day 12 - Rovos Rail / Matobo National Park

Breakfast is served in the dining car. The train travels through baobab country and ascends to Bulawayo, the second city of Zimbabwe, capital of Matabeleland and industrial capital of the country. Lunch is served in the dining car. Visit bushmen caves and the grave of Cecil John Rhodes. In early evening, continue to Sawmills. Dinner is served on board the train. (B,L,D)

Day 13, Rovos Rail / Hwange National Park

Breakfast is served as the train travels between Gwaai and Dete along one of the world’s longest stretches of straight railway line, running 72 miles along the eastern edge of Hwange National Park. After a lunch on board, enjoy a game drive in Hwange National Park, the nation’s largest wildlife reserve. Dinner is served in the dining car enroute to Thompsons Junction for an overnight stay. (B,L,D)

Day 14 – Rovos Rail / Victoria Falls

This morning, disembark the train and transfer to the historic Victoria Falls Hotel. This afternoon, tour Victoria Falls, a remarkable place where the Zambezi River plunges 328 ft. into the basalt Batoka Gorge below, creating a mist that can be seen for 50 miles around. Dr. David Livingstone was, in 1855, the first European to arrive at the falls and named them for England’s queen. Victoria Falls is the earth’s largest curtain of water spanning more than a mile. (B)

Day 15 – Victoria Falls / Chobe National Park

After an early English breakfast, set out on a full-day safari to explore Chobe National Park, one of the most famous parks in southern Africa. Be on the lookout for lions, leopards, giraffe, impala, and baboons. During the drive, it’s likely to see several herds of elephants wandering the savanna or stopping at the river for a drink or a bath. The immense bird population of more than 460 species, makes Chobe a favored destination for birdwatchers from the world over.

After lunch, take a leisurely cruise on the Chobe River for a chance to spot hippos, crocodiles and other animals along this life-giving waterway. Later this evening, join fellow Smithsonian Journeys Travelers for a festive farewell dinner. (B,L,D)

Day 16 —Victoria Falls / Johannesburg

Later this morning, transfer by motor coach to the Victoria Falls Airport. There, board the flight to Johannesburg and connecting flights to the U.S. (B)

Important Note: The flight to Johannesburg is not included in the land only tour cost. The land tour ends at Victoria Falls Airport. Land Only travelers can purchase flights to Johannesburg from the tour operator.

In some cases air schedules are such that travelers arrive at their U.S. gateway cities on Day 16. 

Please note: Due to operational considerations, the progression of this itinerary may be changed without prior notice.