Mervis Diamond/ ESPN 980 South Africa Tour and Safari
Back by popular demand is Mervis Diamond’s and ESPN 980’s South Africa Tour and Safari - which will take place in February 2012!
If you’ve ever dreamed of going to Africa, then this is the trip for you!
Mervis Diamond Importers and ESPN 980 have secured a unique, one of a kind South African Vacation for you at an unbelievable all-inclusive price you can’t get anywhere else!
Join Rick “Doc” Walker, former Redskin, Super Bowl champ, and co-host of The John Thompson Show as well as Ronnie Mervis of Mervis Diamond Importers, the voice of diamonds in Washington on a trip you will never forget.
Ronnie Mervis, DC’s King of Romance and resident expert in all things Africa, gets you behind the scenes in one of the most beautiful places on earth that is South Africa.
Live the good life as you stay in the country’s top five star resorts, tour some of the top wineries in the world, and get up close to some of the most beautiful animals on the planet! Get ready for the adventure you will NEVER forget... all while enjoying the best weather on the planet in the heart of the African Summer!!
The best part is the price. You get this amazing South African package for only $4359.00 per person including fuel surcharge, but excluding airline taxes (based on double occupancy)!
call South African Airways Vacations at 855-FLY-SAAV (855-359-7228) or email Terry von Guilleaume, South Africa Specialist at info@flysaavacations.com to get started.
Below are some itinerary highlights, followed by the full itinerary.
Itinerary Highlights
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Cape TownElegant Dutch facades, British monuments, cobbled streets, and outdoor eateries are mere touches of the portrait that is Cape Town - the one place you must go if in South Africa, and your home base for the Mervis Diamond/ESPN 980 Africa Tour and Safari. Enjoy the bounty of varied cuisines with culinary history dating back hundreds of years. Nightlife is rich and vibrant. Picturesque scenes await your every turn.. |
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Table Bay HotelThe Table Bay is a five-star hotel situated in Cape Town’s famous Victoria & Alfred Waterfront with its array of wonderful shops, restaurants and bars. The interior of the hotel presents a kaleidoscope of impressions, from the European marble mosaic of the entrance court to the intricate parquet floor of the foyer, all framed by the full-scale drama of Table Mountain in the background and the bustling activity of the harbor in the foreground. The hotel has a maritime flavor that extends to each room and suite, which has sea or mountain views. |
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Two Safaris at Kruger National ParkEstablished in 1898, the world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks as one of the best in Africa. This national park of nearly 2 million hectares is unrivaled in the diversity of its life forms, Truly the flagship of the South African national parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals including the “Big Five” lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo. Safaris are conducted in open 4x4 vehicles which allow you to experience a truly thrilling safari adventure. |
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Cape Peninsula TourThis full-day tour begins with a visit to Table Mountain, often described as magical and mystical. Table Mountain is Cape Town’s most prominent feature, and a world famous landmark. This majestic mountain is visible from almost anywhere in Cape Town and is often used as a beacon by which to find direction. The mountain is sculpted from sandstone and rises 1086 meters at its highest point above the bay, called Maclears Beacon. Its flat summit measures nearly 3km and provides breathtaking views of the city and its beautiful beaches. The entire day is filled with the beautiful scenery of the Cape area. |
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Cape Winelands TourEnjoy a full-day tour exploring the fabled Cape wine region. Wine connoisseur or not, a visit to the Cape Winelands is an absolute must as the region has breathtaking vistas, majestic mountain backdrops, and is steeped in rich culture and history. Rolling vineyards and quaint Cape Dutch homesteads await you, as well as award-wining wine farms offering some of the world’s best wines. The fertile green valleys of the Cape Winelands are fed with Mediterranean climate and winter rainfall and are surrounded by proud mountain ranges while the villages offer an array of historic homesteads and monuments. |
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African Penguin ColonyIn 1983 a pair of African penguins were spotted on Foxy Beach at Boulders and in 1985 they began to lay. Since then the colony has grown rapidly, increasing initially at about 60% a year. Now, an African Penguin colony inhabits Boulders Beach in Simonstown. Wooden walkways allow visitors to view the penguins in their natural habitat. Boulders still remains the only place in the world where one can actually swim amongst the penguins as they have continued to invade more beaches. They are remarkably untroubled by people. |
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Protea Hotel - Kruger GateSituated only 100 meters from the Paul Kruger Gate of the Kruger National Park, the luxurious Protea Hotel Kruger Gate provides you with the ideal location from which to experience wildlife first-hand. The ambience of comfort is unforgettable in the context of the African bush. Savor the impression of being in a tree house: the veranda and walkway to your air-conditioned room is at a level normally reserved for the variety of birds found in the area. One of the most memorable moments of your visit will be dining in the stunning open air Lapa Restaurant under the African stars. |
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Leisure TimeWhile there are various tours, guides, and unforgettable experiences included in this vacation, you’ll still possess the commodity of free time to explore and relax at your leisure. Whether it’s sipping on African wine on Table Mountain, laying out by the pool, or indulging in the nightlife of Cape Town, there’s plenty to do. Perhaps you’ll venture to the beaches of Clifton or Robben Island. Or you might take a trip to the Two Oceans Aquarium, or if you’re the adventurous type, you might enjoy a shark cage dive to be among the Great Whites! |
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Victoria Alfred WaterfrontThis energetic working harbour is one of South Africa’s most popular tourist attractions. Today the V&A Waterfront attracts more than 20 million visitors each year - locals and international tourists alike. With over 400 stores and 45 different Waterfront Cape Town restaurants and bars to offer, an arts and crafts centre, an internationally renowned aquarium, a children’s science exploratium and a museum. The unique blend of Victorian architecture, maritime tradition and African culture creates an environment that is lively and cosmopolitan. |
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Victoria Falls (OPTIONAL)The Victoria Falls constitutes one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. The local people call it “Mosi-oa-Tunya” the smoke that thunders. The Victoria Falls is 1,708 meters wide, making it the largest curtain of water in the world. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to enjoy all the optional excursions available, from bungee jumping, white water rafting, helicopter and micro lighting, to walking with lions, and elephantback safaris, or simply spend time browsing the curio markets. |
FULL ITINERARY - BASE TOUR
Day 1 – Friday 17 Feb 2012
Depart from JFK or IAD for your flight to Johannesburg, South Africa. Upon arrival in Johannesburg, you will board your connecting flight to Cape Town.
JFK departure leaves at 11:15 AM OR IAD departure leaves at 5:40 PM
Day 2 – Saturday 18 Feb 2012
Once you arrive at the Cape Town International Airport, you will be greeted by local guides who will assist you with boarding the luxury coach for the transfer to the Table Bay Hotel. The Table Bay is a five-star hotel which uniquely responds to its magnificent surroundings in the vibrant Victoria & Alfred Waterfront shopping center. It has a maritime flavor that extends to each room, featuring both sea and mountain views. The interior of the hotel presents a kaleidoscope of impressions, from the European marble mosaic of the entrance court to the intricate parquet floor of the foyer, all framed by the full-scale drama of Table Mountain in the background and the bustling activity of the harbor in the foreground. After the long flight we recommend that the rest of the day be spent at leisure to relax and unwind from your travels. No lunch is included on this day, but a welcome dinner is provided at one of the amazing restaurants located in the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront.
If you’re feeling up to it, head out to explore the vibrant Cape Town nightlife! Cape Town’s entertainment and nightlife has something special to appeal to everyone’s taste. Maybe it’s the diverse selection of restaurants to choose from, ranging from top class international venues to settings with a warm and local flavor, or perhaps it’s the mix of interesting personalities and attractive qualities of the people you will meet. Whatever the case, Cape Town has a vibe and an energy that will have you partying the night away, sipping cocktails while overlooking the sparkling sea, or just relaxing and enjoying the city’s unique atmosphere.
Our top pick: Baraza Cocktail Bar- On the Camps Bay Promenade overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, indulge in the pleasure of sipping a stylish cocktail on a warm summers evening and enjoy watching the African sunset while being cooled by the calm, crisp ocean breeze.
Overnight on a bed and breakfast basis at the Table Bay Hotel
Day 3 – Sunday 19 Feb 2012
Wake up to an amazing breakfast featuring a vast array of foods from the freshest fruits, oysters, smoked salmon, sushi, delicious cold meats, and freshly baked pastries; and this is not to mention any of the hot foods that are offered! In fact there are nearly 270 different food items for you to choose from. Savor these delicious culinary creations while enjoying the beautiful views of the V&A Waterfront and majestic Table Mountain.
After a delicious breakfast you will be met by your tour guides for a full day Cape Peninsula Tour. The tour begins with a visit to beautiful Table Mountain. Often described as magical and mystical, Table Mountain is Cape Town's most prominent feature, and a world famous landmark. This majestic mountain is visible from almost anywhere in Cape Town and is often used as a beacon by which to find direction. The mountain is sculpted from sandstone and rises 1086 meters at its highest point above the bay, called Maclears Beacon. Its flat summit measures nearly 3km and provides breathtaking views of the city and its beautiful beaches. The panorama stretches from Table Bay to False Bay and around the mountain to the Hout Bay Valley and Kommetjie. On a clear day one has a magnificent view across the Cape Flats to the Hottentots Holland Mountains.
The tour continues along the Atlantic Seaboard past Clifton to Hout Bay, and for an additional cost, offers a cruise past the seals on Seal Island. Continue over Chapman’s Peak to the Cape Point Nature Reserve which has been declared a Natural World Heritage Site. Encompassing 7,750 hectares of rich and varied flora and fauna, abounding with buck, baboons, Cape Mountain Zebra, and over 250 species of birds, Cape Point is a nature enthusiasts’ paradise. Rugged rocks and sheer cliffs that tower over 200 meters above the sea, and then cut deep into the ocean floor, provide a spectacular background for the Parks’ rich bio-diversity.
Cape Point falls within the southern section of Table Mountain National Park. The native vegetation of the area, fynbos, comprises the smallest but richest of the world's six floral kingdoms. Lunch is included en route at a local fish restaurant. The tour continues with a visit to the world famous African Penguin colony that inhabits Boulders Beach in Simonstown. Wooden walkways allow visitors to view the penguins in their natural habitat. Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Dinner is not included on this evening, but the adjacent Waterfront Mall offers a wide variety of dining experiences.
Overnight on a bed and breakfast basis at the Table Bay Hotel
Day 4 – Monday 20 Feb 2012
After breakfast at the hotel, depart with the guides for a full day tour exploring the fabled Cape wine region. Wine connoisseur or not, a visit to the Cape Winelands is an absolute must as the region has breathtaking vistas, majestic mountain backdrops, and is steeped in rich culture and history. Rolling vineyards and quaint Cape Dutch homesteads await you, as well as award-wining wine farms offering some of the world's best wines. The winelands are divided into various different regions, each offering their own 'wine route'. The most popular and well-known regions are Stellenbosch, Franschhoek, Wellington and Paarl. The fertile green valleys of the Cape Winelands are surrounded by proud mountain ranges while the villages offer an array of historic homesteads and monuments. It is the Mediterranean climate and winter rainfall of the southwestern Cape that produces some of the best wines in the country.
Your journey will take you through the breathtaking scenery and the historic towns of Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Paarl. During the course of the day you will enjoy wine tasting at two local celebrated wine estates, as well as a full cellar tour to gain better knowledge of the wine making process. Enjoy a fabulous lunch offered at one of the celebrated wine estates (included). Return to the hotel in the late afternoon. Dinner is not included on this evening.
Overnight on a bed and breakfast basis at the Table Bay Hotel
Day 5 – Tuesday 21 Feb 2012
After breakfast at the hotel, enjoy the full day at leisure to take advantage of some of the amazing excursions the city has to offer.
For instance, take a tour with Uthando to visit some of the projects in the sprawling townships surrounding Cape Town. This cultural tour gives a direct view of some of the hardships endured in the life of those less fortunate. These tours are truly life changing; you will witness first hand the incredible work of a dedicated few who wish to improve and uplift the lives of those less fortunate.
For those seeking a little sun after the cold northern winters, a visit to the famous beaches of Clifton is a must. This area offers four beautiful, sheltered white sand beaches that are ideal for basking in the glorious African sunshine. Once you’ve had enough sunshine, it is just a short distance to the sidewalk cafés of Camps Bay for a glass of delicious South African wine, fresh seafood, and a good dose of people watching!
Don’t forget a visit to the famous Two Oceans Aquarium. Considered to be one of the world’s finest aquariums, you can view the towering kelp forest, watch the comical penguins at play, or get an up-close look at the eerie sharks! And speaking of sharks, for the brave at heart, why not depart for an early morning transfer along the Cape’s south coast to go shark cage diving in the company of Great White’s. This is truly an experience not to be missed!
For those wanting an authentic taste of South Africa, take a trip to the Bo-Kaap and enjoy a demonstration of traditional Cape Malay cooking with its creative use of aromatic spices and appetizing flavors.
In addition, the city boasts a wealth of shopping opportunities from boutiques to famous international brands, to leading South African department stores. The V&A Waterfront is a must-see with its array of shops, restaurants and entertainment facilities featuring something for everyone. Don’t forget to visit some of the amazing restaurants that the city has to offer - several of which are rated amongst the world’s finest dining establishments. The city also offers a wide variety of night life, with an evening visit to the lively and vibrant Long Street area being a must. No lunch or dinner is included on this day.
Our Top Pick: Robben Island – These tours include a poignant trip out to Robben Island where Nelson Mandela was jailed for so many years. This fascinating journey will take you through South Africa’s darkest hours of apartheid, but it also shows the amazing path the country has followed since the end of apartheid.
One thing is for sure, you will not be at a loss for things to do in this amazing city!
Overnight on a bed and breakfast basis at the Table Bay Hotel
Day 6 – Wednesday 22 Feb 2012
After breakfast at the hotel, you will be met by guides and transferred to the Cape Town airport to board the flight to OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg. On arrival, you will be met by more local guides for the transfer to the lodge. Situated only 100 meters from the Paul Kruger Gate of the Kruger National Park, the luxurious Protea Hotel Kruger Gate provides you with the ideal location from which to experience wildlife first-hand. The ambience of comfort is unforgettable in the context of the African bush. Savor the impression of being in a tree house: the veranda and walkway to your air-conditioned room is at a level normally reserved for the variety of birds found in the area. One of the most memorable moments of your visit will be dining in the stunning open air Lapa Restaurant under the African stars. This amazing meal includes a selection of delicious meats and fish, and a variety of food that is cooked over the burning coals of the fire. No lunch is included on this day, but dinner is included at the lodge.
Overnight on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis at the Protea Hotel – Kruger Gate
Day 7 – Thursday 23 Feb 2012
After breakfast enjoy the full day on safari. Your experienced ranger and tracker team will help you make the most of your time on safari through their extensive knowledge of the African bush. The world-renowned Kruger National Park offers a wildlife experience that ranks as one of the best in Africa. Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park of nearly 2 million hectares is unrivaled in the diversity of its life forms, and is considered a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. Truly the flagship of the South African national parks, Kruger is home to an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds and 147 mammals including the “Big Five” lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and buffalo. Safaris are conducted in open 4x4 vehicles which allow you to experience a truly thrilling safari adventure. Lunch is included at the park and dinner is included at the lodge.
Overnight on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis at the Protea Hotel – Kruger Gate
Day 8 – Friday 24 Feb 2012
After breakfast enjoy the full day on safari. Lunch is included in the park and dinner is included at the lodge.
Overnight on a dinner, bed and breakfast basis at the Protea Hotel – Kruger Gate
Day 9 – Saturday 25 Feb 2012
After breakfast you will be met by local guides and transferred to OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to board the flight back to the US.
Johannesburg to JFK departs at 8:40 PM OR Johannesburg to IAD departs at 10:45 PM
Day 10 – Sunday 26 Feb 2012
Arrive into JFK at 6:40 AM OR Arrive into IAD at 10:20 AM
We are certain you will leave South Africa with the fondest of memories. As the saying goes, “you can leave Africa, but Africa never leaves you”. This is truly a “World in One Country”, and you will be hard pushed not to be seduced by aweinspiring scenery, thrilling wildlife and the genuine warmth of South African hospitality.
END OF SA TOUR
Continue reading for optional extension in Johannesburg and Victoria Falls
Victoria Falls Optional Extension (Zambia)
Day 9 – Saturday 25 Feb 2012
On arrival at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg, you will be met by a local driver for the transfer to the hotel. The Garden Court Sandton City Hotel is within close walking distance to Sandton City, Nelson Mandela Square (formerly Sandton Square) and Village Walk, South Africa's exclusive shopping complexes with their vast selection of restaurants, designer boutiques, entertainment centers, banks and restaurants. No lunch or dinner is included on this day.
Overnight on a bed and breakfast basis at the Garden Court – Sandton City
Day 10 – Sunday 26 Feb 2012
After breakfast you will be met by the driver for the transfer to the airport to board the flight to Livingstone Airport. On arrival, the local guides will meet you for the transfer to the hotel. The Zambezi Sun, located on the edge of the eastern cataract of the Victoria Falls, reflects the richness and diversity of the country’s heritage; capturing the very soul of Africa – unpretentious, fun and welcoming. With its warm, earthy architecture, inspired by an African walled village and simple finishes highlighted in bright mosaics and fabrics as well as intoxicating Zambian artworks and accessories, the Zambezi Sun is set to turn your stay into a memorable experience. Enjoy time at leisure until you will me be met by the guide for a Sundowner Cruise on the mighty Zambezi River. No lunch or dinner is included on this day.
Overnight on a bed and breakfast basis at the Zambezi Sun
Day 11 – Monday 27 Feb 2012
After breakfast you will be met by the guides for a Tour of the Falls. The Victoria Falls constitutes one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. The local people call it "Mosi-oa-Tunya" the smoke that thunders. The Victoria Falls is 1,708 meters wide, making it the largest curtain of water in the world. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure to enjoy all the optional excursions available, from bungee jumping, white water rafting, helicopter and micro lighting, to walking with lions, and elephantback safaris, or simply spend time browsing the curio markets. No lunch or dinner is included on this day.
Our Top Pick: Helicopter Flight- An exhilarating experience with great views of the Victoria Falls, the gorges and views upstream of the Zambezi River. Excellent photographic opportunities abound in this area.
Overnight on a bed and breakfast basis at the Zambezi Sun
Day 12 – Tuesday 28 Feb 2012
After breakfast you will be met by local guides and transferred to the OR Tambo International Airport (Johannesburg) to board the flight back to the US.
Johannesburg to JFK departs at 8:40 PM OR Johannesburg to IAD departs at 10:45 PM
Day 13 – Wednesday 29 Feb 2012
Arrive into JFK at 6:40 AM OR Arrive into IAD at 10:20 AM
Pricing
Base Tour Price
$4359.00* per person sharing ‐ includes fuel surcharges ‐ excludes airline taxes
Single supplement: $1133.00
Price Includes
International Flights JFK or IAD to Johannesburg ‐ Round trip
Fuel Surcharges
Domestic Flight Johannesburg to Cape Town
Domestic Flight Cape Town to Johannesburg
All meals and accommodation as stated
Transport in a luxury, air‐conditioned coach
All entrance fees for visits mentioned
English speaking guide as stated
Guide and driver meals (where necessary)
All porterage at hotels and airports
Price Excludes
All services not stated
All expenses of a personal nature
Airline taxes are currently $170.00. These costs are subject to change at the time of making
your reservation
All driver / guide / ranger gratuities
Payment Terms
A $500 deposit is required to confirm your place on the tour. The deposit is fully refundable up until October 17th, 2011 Reservations will be based on a first come first serve basis. The Balance payment amount, along with fuel surcharges and airline taxes is required by December 1st, 2011.
Terms
* Prices are per person based on double occupancy accommodations and include fuel surcharges. Government taxes, departure and inspection fees, passenger facility charges and the September 11th Security Fee of $170 – $250 depending on the package, are additional and payable prior to departure. Package price is valid for travel 17th February 2012. Prices are valid for new bookings only, subject to availability, may change without notice and are not retroactive.
Victoria Falls Extension Price
USD 1169.00* per person sharing, including fuel surcharges, and excluding airline taxes
Single supplement: USD 345.00
Price Includes
Regional flights Johannesburg to Livingstone round trip
All meals and accommodation as stated
Transport in a luxury, air‐conditioned vehicle
All entrance fees for visits mentioned
English speaking guide as stated
Price Excludes
All services not stated
All expenses of a personal nature
Visa fees for Zambia (+/‐ $50 per person)
Airline taxes, Airline taxes are currently $40.00. These costs are subject to change at the time
of making your reservation
All driver / guide / ranger gratuities
Payment Terms
A $250 deposit is required to confirm your place on the tour. The deposit is fully refundable up until October 17th, 2011 Reservations will be based on a first come first serve basis. The Balance payment amount, along with fuel surcharges and airline taxes is required by December 1st, 2011
Terms
* Prices are per person based on double occupancy accommodations and include fuel surcharges. Government taxes, departure and inspection fees, passenger facility charges and the September 11th Security Fee of $170 – $250 depending on the package, are additional and payable prior to departure. Package price is valid for travel 17th February 2012. Prices are valid for new bookings only, subject to availability, may change without notice and are not retroactive.