|
 A real experience in Africa sparks not just all five senses, but also imagination and emotions quite unlike any other place you’ll experience. This special 11-day Christmas & New Year Holiday gay tour experience through South Africa and Zimbabwe showcases the highlights of these countries. We'll travel from the cosmopolitan, postcard-perfect city of Cape Town and its nearby Winelands to the world famous safaris of Kruger park, before finishing with the majestic Victoria Falls.
South Africa is the country of wide open safaris with far more than just the “big 5,” underwater dives with great white sharks, and white sand beaches that quickly morph into imposing mountains before fading into wide open plains - just to name a few highlights. Nature has been more than generous to this place, visible as much in its landscape, as in its wildlife at every turn. The country's history has been tumultuous to say the least, but it has emerged in recent years as a world leader in social progress and tolerance.
Our adventure continues to Victoria Falls, set on the border of Zambia and Zimbabwe, bringing you face to face with one of the world’s great natural wonders. Based in a comfortable lodge near town, you’ll explore the thundering falls on a guided visit, enjoy lunch overlooking the Batoka Gorge, and unwind on a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River with drinks and wildlife sightings. There’s also time to relax or dial up the adventure with activities like a helicopter flight or white-water rafting, balanced with evenings of local cuisine and culture.
• All accommodations for 11 days:
- 3 nights in Cape Town (Garden Court Victoria Junction)
- 1 night in Winelands (Protea Hotel Franschhoek)
- 3 nights in Kruger National Park area (Kruger Gate Hotel)
- 3 nights in Victoria Falls (Wild Horizons Waterfalls Lodge)
• Domestic flights within South Africa:
- Cape Town - Kruger National Park
- Kruger National Park - Victoria Falls
• All ground transport & airport transfers throughout the itinerary (except arrival/departure airport transfers)
• Meals:
- Daily breakfasts
- 2 dinners in Cape Town, including:
* Dinner with a local Cape Malay family
* GOLD Restaurant with live entertainment & drumming experience
- Dinner in Winelands at Reuben's Restaurant
- 3 dinners at Kruger Gate Hotel in Kruger
- Dinner with a local Cape Malay family
- Meals in Victoria Falls include:
* Welcome Dinner at Makuwa-Kuwa Restaurant
* A 2-hour sunset cruise down the Zambezi River with snacks, beer, wine, and soft drinks
* Lunch at The Lookout at Batoka Gorge (drinks additional)
• Guided experiences & activities:
- Full-day wildlife safari through Kruger National Park (including conservation fees)
- Full-day Cape Point tour, including:
* Chapman’s Peak Drive
* Cape of Good Hope
* Funicular ride to the Cape Point lighthouse
* Boulders Beach penguin colony
- Walking tour of Cape Town’s Bo Kaap neighborhood with a local guide
- Entrance fees to Victoria Falls
• Expert guidance from your fun and knowledgeable gay trip leader, plus local guides where specified
• Meals and drinks outside of those listed above
• Activities outside of the those listed above
• Optional gratuities
• International Airfare
• Arrival/Departure airport transfers
• Optional gratuities
Additional spending budget?
Your big-ticket items are included through the trip, but you'll want to budget for additional spending such as additional meals, drinks, shopping, activities, etc. These costs can vary dramatically with differing personal habits but we suggest expecting to spend an additional $900 USD at the lower end for the more budget-conscious and $1300 USD at the higher end for the splurgers. We suggest arriving to South Africa with approximately 4,000 local South African Rand to make those first few local purchases nice and easy.
South Africa is a country of undeniably unique experiences, where it’s possible to be in the presence of giraffes and hippos before breakfast is even served. Where by lunchtime you can have the surreal experience of being surrounded by hundreds of little penguins. Dinner comes with a glass of world-class wine, enjoyed on the patio of that very vineyard that produced it.
Days 1, 2, and 3
Cape Town is one of the great cosmopolitan coastal cities of the world, fringed by gorgeous beaches, with the imposing Table Mountain as its focal point. The streets are full of a wide variety of languages and colors, making up a local culture that is as varied as it is fascinating to be a part of. We spend our first 3 nights here because there is so much to do! Head to the local gay beaches, up to the top of Table Mountain, into the water with great white sharks, out to famous Robben Island, to the penguin colonies and more! It's a city that is jam-packed with fun activities. Our second night's dinner is in the home of a local family in the Bo-kaap neighborhood who welcome us with a 3-course meal to start the trip off right!
On Christmas Day (our final day) in Cape Town, we'll embark on a full-day journey along the stunning Cape Peninsula, where dramatic coastlines, sweeping ocean views, and charming seaside towns await. We'll travel the iconic Atlantic seaboard, passing Clifton, Camps Bay, and the scenic Chapman’s Peak Drive (weather permitting). Our journey will take us to the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, where rugged cliffs meet the turquoise waters of the Atlantic, and will allow us to take in the panoramic views from the lighthouse at Cape Point.
Day 4
Encompassing a huge region across the Western Cape, stretching up the West Coast, up and east into the Klein Karoo, and right down into the Hermanus and Overberg regions, the Cape Winelands is a profoundly special place. Set in and amongst quaint and traditional Cape Dutch houses, magical trees and vineyards and majestic mountain surroundings, you might think you are in Bordeaux when in fact you have found a truly South African piece of heaven.
On our fourth day in South Africa, we'll enjoy a full-day tour of South Africa’s famous Winelands, visiting three carefully selected wineries for tastings and a chance to experience the region’s renowned wines and stunning vineyard landscapes. In the evening, savour a delightful dinner at Reuben's, where fine cuisine and a welcoming atmosphere provide the perfect end to your day.
Days 5, 6, and 7
This 19,485 square kilometre (7,523 square mile) national park in South Africa’s Northeast region is one of the world’s most famous places for a safari – and that’s exactly what we’re here for! There’s no shortage of lions, rhinos, giraffes, zebras, cheetahs, elephants, hippos, and leopards here, and our mission is to find them.
We fly from Cape Town to Kruger then take a short drive to our beautiful hotel just outside the park gates. The next day we wake up to a full day of wildlife viewing in the world-renowned Kruger National Park - a day you will never forget. We'll explore the pristine wilderness in an open safari vehicle with a highly experienced ranger, who will ensure optimal wildlife sightings with his in-depth knowledge of the African bush. As you search for the Big Five, keep an eye out for the many other smaller creatures that live in this reserve, including over 500 bird and over 100 reptile species.
We've also got one full free day here as well. On this day you may choose to take an additional safari through the park to see more wildlife, or choose from several other unique options including a visit to Elephant Whispers to get up close to African elephants, or a trip through the Blyde River Canyon. Your trip leader is there to help coordinate this day with you in person.
Days 8, 9, 10, and 11
Our journey continues to Victoria Falls, where nearly two kilometers of water plunge more than 100 meters into the Zambezi River below, filling the air with thunder and mist. A guided walk brings you to the best viewpoints of this iconic natural wonder, followed by lunch dramatically set above the Batoka Gorge. In the evening, unwind on a sunset cruise along the Zambezi River, enjoying drinks, snacks, and wildlife sightings as animals gather at the water’s edge. The following day is yours to savor at your own pace: relax by the pool or choose from unforgettable adventures. Want to extend the safari magic? Embark on an optional trip through Botswana's Chobe National Park, which includes an open river boat cruise and a lunch overlooking the Chobe River.
On the final day of the trip (Day 11), you're welcome to depart any time as there are no included activites on this day.
We don't like staying in smelly shacks on our vacations and we're pretty sure you don't either! You work hard to go on vacation and we believe you deserve an enjoyable, comfortable place to wind down at the end of each day. We put a LOT of time into finding the perfect accommodation for your trip. After rigorous wifi signal testing, fluffing pillows, and taking a shower or two, we've narrowed down our favorite properties. Check out our approved accommodation to see where we've stayed in the past and where we'll likely be staying on your trip.
Cape Town
Garden Court Victoria Junction Hotel
The trendy, industrial chic Garden Court Victoria Junction hotel, is ideally situated in the heart of the bustling urban district of Green Point, home to some of Cape Town's most exciting shopping, dining, and nightlife. At the foot of iconic Signal Hill, the hotel is within walking distance of the V&A Waterfront and Two Oceans Aquarium. Contemporary rooms with free uncapped Wi-Fi, flat-screen TVs and room safes. Swimming pool and fitness center are available for use with an on-site restaurant and coffee shop available to dine at.
Winelands (Franschhoek)
Protea Hotel by Marriott Franschhoek
Protea Hotel by Marriott Franschhoek is in a prestigious location within the famed Cape Winelands, in the town of Franschhoek. This is where world class wine and gourmet dining have inspired all that have journeyed into this beautiful part of South Africa. The hotel prides itself on its charming atmosphere, gracious style and impeccable service. The property is rich in history with one of the sections dating back to the 1880s. The hotel is within easy access of Franschhoek's culinary establishments, art galleries, cheese factories and naturally, the famous wine farms.
Kruger National Park
Kruger Gate Hotel
Nestled on the banks of the majestic Sabie River, just stones throw from the iconic Kruger National Park, Kruger Gate Hotel offers guests a truly unforgettable experience where the wild beauty of Africa is at their doorstep. Set amidst the untamed bushveld, the hotel blends seamlessly into its surroundings, creating a peaceful retreat in one of the worlds most sought-after safari destinations. From luxurious accommodations to breathtaking views, the hotel caters to every need and taste, ensuring that all guests can experience the magic of the African wilderness.
Victoria Falls
Wild Horizons Waterfalls Lodge
 Located in the heart of Victoria Falls, the newly unveiled Wild Horizons Waterfalls Lodge offers refined, accessible accommodation that brings comfort and nature together. This sophisticated retreat is designed to immerse guests in the beauty of the Falls with its waterfall-themed designs. Just minutes from one of the world's natural wonders
as well as the city centre, the lodge provides access to adventure while offering a peaceful haven for relaxation.
*Please note that due to availability, these exact hotels may not all be available during all our trips. However, we will always replace these with similar hotels.
|
|
The Climate
At the end of December, southern Africa is firmly in summer, with warm to hot temperatures across all three regions. Cape Town enjoys dry, sunny weather with daytime highs typically in the mid-70s to low-80s °F (24–28 °C) and cooler evenings, while Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls are hotter and more humid, often reaching the mid-80s to low-90s °F (29–34 °C) with occasional afternoon thunderstorms during the lush green season. Pack lightweight, breathable clothing, a wide-brimmed hat, sunscreen, and comfortable walking shoes, along with a light rain jacket for short tropical downpours. For safaris and evenings, include neutral-colored layers, insect repellent, and a light sweater for air-conditioned vehicles or cooler nights.
The People and LGBTQ Friendliness
South African people are quick to point out how diverse their nation is – and it’s true! With 11 official languages in the country and a big visible mix of cultures, classes, and colors, it really is a place where many different types of people come together. When South Africa’s constitution was rewritten in 1994, it worked hard to make all people feel welcome and accepted in society. This includes the large LGBT population, even going so far as to legalize same sex marriage long before many other western countries. You’ll notice that the local people are very laid back and friendly, and are very welcoming to foreigners in the place their proud to call home. Don’t worry about a language barrier here – it would be very difficult to find someone who doesn’t speak fluent English!
In contrast, Zimbabwe is a socially conservative country, so LGBTQ+ travelers are generally advised to be discreet in public settings. In tourism hubs like Victoria Falls, hotels, guides, and tour operators are accustomed to international visitors and are typically professional, welcoming, and focused on guest comfort. While it is not a destination for open LGBTQ+ expression, many gay travelers visit without issue by exercising cultural awareness and sensitivity.
The Cuisine
While there are always plenty of options for all sorts of dietary restrictions including vegetarians, it’s meat that makes up a good chunk of menus here, including some exotic meat options. Detours doesn't believe in limiting your choices by including all of your meals at pre-decided restaurants as part of the trip package. Instead, we include all of your breakfasts to start your day off, then we explore all of the different restaurant options available for lunch and dinner (other than meals already included). This way we can eat when we want, where we want, and spend what we want! Your trip leader definitely has their favorite spots so if you'd like some advice on the best in each location, just check with them.
What to bring?
Our advice is simple. Pack your bag, then take half of those things out and leave them back home. It’s common to hear people wishing they’d packed less stuff, but we’ve never heard anyone complain that they didn’t bring enough. Even if you realize you forget to pack some crucial item you can always pick up a replacement once you arrive in South Africa. We'll include some trip-specific packing advice based on expected weather as part of our update email to you, sent 10 days prior to your trip.
Money
We suggest just bringing your regular bank card from home and using the ATMs in South Africa to get cash. In our experience it’s cheaper than currency exchange shops here or even at home. South Africa has its own currency, the Rand (ZAR), whereas you'll be able to pay in USD in most places in Victoria Falls. Credit cards are widely accepted in both South Africa and Victoria Falls so it’s good to bring at least one on your trip too. Travelers checks are a thing of the past so we don’t recommend bringing them on any of our trips.
It can sometimes be challenging to use large-denomination bills at shops and restaurants, so we encourage you to request small denomination bills when getting cash prior to your trip.
If possible, it's always a good idea to travel internationally with a credit card that doesn't charge foreign transaction fees. The savings will add up over the course of your trip and may end up being worth the work of getting a new card prior to your trip. Once you're overseas, if presented with the option to pay in the local currency or your home currency, we suggest always choosing the local currency to further avoid fees.
Tipping
Just like in the United States, Canada, and some other places in the world, tipping is expected in South Africa and Victoria Falls for restaurant/bar service and any guides you may have along the way. We suggest adding somewhere between 12-18% gratuity to your bill for good service in South Africa, and around 10% in Victoria Falls. Your trip leader will have advice for other services along the way including your safari guide. We also recommend tipping around $10-15 USD per day for your trip leader.
Accommodation
We have pretty high standards when it comes to choosing our accommodations, and trust us, we’ve done plenty of room-sniffing, pillow-patting, bed-jumping and bathroom inspections to make sure we stay at quality spots. To be approved as a Detours accommodations provider, a hotel/guesthouse must: be locally owned (to support the local community), be in an amazing location (close to the hot spots), AND be gay-friendly. We won't be staying in 5-star Ritz-Carltons but we also won't subject you to anything we wouldn't want to stay in ourselves. Clean and comfortable and approximately 4 stars, you can count on that!
Trip Leaders
All our trips are led by one of our own gay trip leaders. They're there with you every day and their job is to help ensure that this is your trip of a lifetime by taking the hassle out of your trip and enabling you to experience everything you came to South Africa for. Consider them like a friendly concierge that's traveling along with you. All of our trip leaders are gay and all are well-traveled and experienced in the destination they're leading in, so they'll be a great part of your experience!
Alarm Clocks
We do absolutely everything possible to avoid needing such a mundane awakening. A world without alarm clocks is one we want to be part of, and your “rise and shine” while in Africa should come from the sound of a lion’s roar, a hyena’s laugh, or the rumble of Victoria Falls. However, sometimes due to current train or flight schedules (and a morning safari!) we are required to make early departures, but we do everything we can to minimize this.
Your Group
Our groups are run with a maximum of 16 travelers. Ages of group members vary but almost all our travelers are in their 40's, 50’s and 60’s. Whatever the age of the guys on our trips everyone's already got something in common, an exciting new experience in a new country! Each group is led by a Detours trip leader who is there to ensure everything goes off without a hitch, allowing you to focus on having the time of your life! We welcome both men and women onto our trips although it’s important to know that most groups are 100% gay men.
Solo Travelers
No problem! Don’t worry, at least half our travelers come solo and our trip will provide plenty of chances to meet great people both inside and outside of our group, including other solo travelers. As far as your accommodations go, you’ve got two choices. We can either pair you up with another solo group member in a two-bed room for no extra charge, or you can have your own room for a very reasonable surcharge
Electrical Outlets
South Africa and Zimbabwe use several different plug shapes (primarily types D and M) so it's a good idea to bring a multi-prong electrical adapter on your trip here. The voltage is 220-240V with 50 Hz frequency. These days, the majority of items that are plugged into an outlet are built to handle varying voltage and frequency levels, but just to be sure, we suggest checking your item for its acceptable range.
Staying Connected
To ensure you don't lose connection along the way, your cell phone provider likely has several roaming options available. We suggest reaching out to them prior to the trip to find out which package is right for you as it will depend on how much you intend to use your phone while traveling. Keep in mind that all accommodation and most restaurants have free WiFi available as well.
|
|
