The
SOUTH AFRICA
trip
For the love of
THE BIG 5 WILDLIFE
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CAPE WINELANDS
SUNSET HIKES
BRAAI (BBQ)
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OCEAN DRIVES
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SUNDOWNER COCKTAILS
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PENGUIN COLONIES
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WARM TEMPERATURES
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LIVELY NIGHTLIFE
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SOUTH AFRICA
WHAT TO EXPECT
The best part of South Africa? It’s the overwhelming beauty at every turn. From sun-soaked beaches to expansive bushland, our South Africa trip is crafted for adventurous travelers in their 20s and 30s, ready to check another incredible destination off their bucket list.
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While 3.5 million visitors flock here each year for the Big 5, we’re going further. This trip dives into the vibrant city of Cape Town, explores Stellenbosch’s world-class wine region, and takes on epic hikes up natural landmarks like Lion’s Head. And, of course, Kruger National Park for unforgettable wildlife encounters.
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Who’s ready to explore the depths of South Africa with a crew of new friends? Count me in!
2025 dates
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May 16 - 25, 2025
1 Gal spot + 1 Guy spot left
Sep 19 - 28, 2025
SOLD OUT - Waitlist Only
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Oct 10 - 19, 2025
1 Guy spot left!
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Oct 31 - nov 9, 2025
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Nov 21 - 30, 2025
Runs over Thanksgiving
Dec 5 - 14, 2025
Dec 23 - Jan 1, 2026
Runs over Christmas and New Year's Eve 🎉
1 Gal spot left!
Dec 29 - Jan 7, 2026
Runs over New Year's Eve 🎉 - likely to sell out
2 Guy spots left
10 days/9 nights
starting at $5,999 USD
P.S. All payments can be broken up into a
$975 deposit + 3 additional installments.
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*Please note: Due to requirements from our suppliers, the South Africa Trip follows a 91-Day Cancellation Policy.
Included
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​All accommodations in bush camps or centrally located hotels (boutique when possible; shared twin/double rooms)
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Meals: 9 breakfasts, 6 lunches, 5 dinners
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All in-country ground transportation included (including flight from Hoedspruit to Cape Town)
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All entrance fees to private game reserves and Kruger National Park
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Three game drives
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Full guided day in Kruger National Park
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Visit to an elephant reserve
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Blyde River Canyon sightseeing tour
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Wine tasting in Stellenbosch
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Walking tour in the Cape Malay Quarter with a local guide
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Scenic drive along the Cape Peninsula
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Visit to the African Penguin Colony at Boulder’s Beach
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Optional: hike to Lion’s Head
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FTLO trip leader
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*All activities are weather dependent; in the unlikely event that we are unable to run an activity, we will have a suitable alternative in place.
not included
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Flights to South Africa: For cheaper flights, book an international round-trip to Cape Town and then purchase a domestic flight from Cape Town to Hoedspruit
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Airport transportation
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Alcohol (except for the wine tastings)
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Mandatory trip insurance
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Meals not mentioned (budget around $225, depending on consumption habits)
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Tips for guides, hotel staff, and waiters
day by day
Trip itineraries are subject to change. For more information, check out our FAQs HERE.
arrive
Day 1 - Hoedspruit
wild beginnings
Imagine the United States, China, India, and most of Europe combined into one massive land area—that’s how big Africa is! In fact, Africa is four times the size of the continental U.S.
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Today, you’ll be landing in the vast, stunning country of South Africa with your new travel crew and checking into a safari lodge.
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Few things are as captivating as experiencing exotic wildlife in their natural habitat, so we’ll dive right in with a bush walk on day one before enjoying an African-style braai (BBQ) in a boma—a traditional, open-air enclosure made for gathering around a fire. Because seriously, what could be a better start to the trip than dinner under the stars with lions and leopards in the distance?
GLAMP
Day 2 - Hoedspruit
elephants & epic views
We’re kicking off the day early to witness the magic of elephants thriving in their natural habitat! Here at the reserve, they’re completely protected, free to roam and live as they please.
Next, we’re off on a mini Panorama Tour through Mpumalanga! Get your cameras ready, because you’ll be seeing jaw-dropping sights like the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and some of the most breathtaking views imaginable.
As evening approaches, we’ll return to the safari lodge and gather in the boma just in time for golden hour. Tonight’s dinner is a real treat—potjie, a hearty South African stew, slow-cooked to perfection over an open fire. And to top it all off, we’ll raise a toast as the sun dips below the horizon, savoring the perfect end to a perfect day.
TRek
Day 3 - Kruger National Park
time for the big 5
Most game drives—what we call safaris here in Africa—kick off at dawn, just as the animals start their day. We’ll pack up early and head straight into Kruger National Park for the ultimate adventure, so keep your eyes peeled for the legendary Big Five: lions, leopards, elephants, rhinos, and buffalos.
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Midday, we’ll take a break for a delicious lunch at our rest camp, surrounded by the wild—a perfect moment to soak in the stunning landscape before heading back out for a golden-hour game drive.
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There’s something magical about spotting wildlife bathed in the golden glow of sunset. Watching the animals move through this light feels almost surreal. Afterward, we’ll settle into our final camp, where you can unwind around a campfire, enjoy dinner, and swap stories with your fellow travelers.
ASCEND
Day 4 - Kruger National Park
camp has you covered
Grab your binoculars because today, you get to choose your own dream African adventure! You can opt for a nature walk or join another early morning game drive.
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We’ve set aside the afternoon for relaxation, and this lodge is designed for just that—perfect for unwinding with a book while admiring the incredible scenery outside. There’s even a plunge pool, providing plenty of spots to soak in the warm African air.
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On our final afternoon game drive, we hope to see monkeys scurrying past and hippos bathing nearby, or perhaps catch a glimpse of a baby leopard learning the ropes of the wild. As we enjoy our last night in Kruger, let’s savor these moments in the African bush with your new friends before we say goodbye to this beautiful place in the morning.
rest
Day 5 - Stellenbosch
vino ventures
If you’re feeling adventurous, take one last morning drive or explore the sights on foot. In the afternoon, we’ll jet off to Cape Town and kick off our journey to Stellenbosch, South Africa’s premier wine region!
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With its breathtaking landscapes, farm-to-table cuisine, and exceptional local wines, Stellenbosch is the ultimate getaway for both locals and tourists—just a quick trip from Cape Town, perfect for foodies and wine lovers alike.
Wine tasting here is an experience not to be missed. Though we’ll kick off with official tastings tomorrow, we still suggest heading out with your crew tonight to pop open a bottle (trust us, the cellar masters here craft unforgettable vintages!). Sipping some of the world’s finest wines with great company—what more could you ask for?
DISCOVER
Day 6 - Stellenbosch
western cape winelands
We’ll dive into the heart of South Africa’s largest wine-producing region with a walking tour around Stellenbosch, soaking in its historic charm before setting off for a wine-tasting adventure.
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Get ready for sweeping mountain views, lush vineyards, gardens shaded by grand oak trees, and ample time to savor exceptional wine. With over 300 years of winemaking heritage, this region is truly a wine lover’s paradise.
Consider the spots we’ve hand-selected the crème de la crème for tasting in the Cape Winelands—you and your new friends are in for so much more than just a heavy pour! At these unique estates, we’ll experience tastings paired with regional delights—from local olive oils to charcuterie, cheese, and fresh produce.
PLAY
Day 7 - Cape Town
malay for the day
While you could easily spend days exploring the estates of the Cape Winelands, this morning we’re headed to Cape Town to dive into everything this vibrant city has to offer.
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Cape Town has a history that's both fascinating and complex. Our local guide will walk you through it all—from the early San (or “bushmen”) inhabitants to the arrival of the Dutch and British, Nelson Mandela’s legacy, and the significance of Robben Island. We’ll end up in Bo Kaap (formerly the Malay Quarter) to explore its iconic, brightly colored houses dating back to the 1760s. Originally rented to enslaved people, these homes are now a vibrant symbol of local heritage. For lunch, we’ll visit the home of a Bo Kaap resident to enjoy a traditional Cape Malay meal, rich with flavors from fruits, spices, vegetables, and meats.
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In the afternoon, if you're up for it, one of Cape Town’s most popular hikes awaits! Lion’s Head offers a rewarding climb with breathtaking, panoramic views—the ultimate spot to catch a stunning sunset.
REFRESH
Day 8 - Cape Town
a penguin party
Get ready for a day of jaw-dropping coastal views on one of South Africa’s most legendary drives! The Cape Peninsula will leave you breathless with its epic ocean vistas and dramatic cliffs at every turn.
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Our journey kicks off in Muizenberg as we cruise past “Millionaire’s Mile,” where grand stone mansions pay tribute to the area’s colonial history. Next, it’s on to the charming streets of Simon’s Town and then Boulders Beach, home to Africa’s only penguin colony. Our grand finale is the Cape of Good Hope, the stunning southwestern tip of the continent. Take a short hike to Cape Point, a World Heritage Site with nearly 20% of Africa’s flora, and get ready for a sunset that will blow your mind—it’s the perfect reward for every step of the climb.
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We’ll break for lunch in the scenic Cape Town suburbs before heading back to the hotel. Afterward, you’re free to dive into Cape Town’s nightlife or chill with an early night in.
SIP
Day 9 - Cape Town
cape town close-out
Cape Town is overflowing with things to do! With historical sites, charming cafes, epic hikes, diverse cuisines, and cozy surf suburbs, you’ll want to fill your final day soaking up all the gems this city has to offer.
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If you’re leaning toward a chill day, Cape Town’s beaches are calling. The iconic Clifton 2nd on the western coast is a must, but don’t skip the sweeping sands of Long Beach in Noordhoek or the secluded charm of Bakoven Beach. For the thrill-seekers, nothing beats a scenic helicopter ride over Cape Town —a must-do for first-time visitors!
We’ll close out this epic journey with a farewell dinner to celebrate an unforgettable South African adventure. From spotting the Big Five on a safari to tasting world-class wine with new friends, we’ve gotten to see every side of this vibrant, diverse country. We can’t believe the adventure is almost over.
Day 10 - Cape Town
see you soon, south Africa!
From the bush to the beach, we wouldn’t be surprised if you and the crew now count South Africa among your favorite destinations on the planet. As we gather for one last breakfast together, we savor those final moments with a cup of coffee and a few heartfelt hugs, reminiscing about our incredible journey and making travel plans for the future.
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If you’re heading home, we wish you safe travels! But if this is just the beginning, South Africa is the perfect launchpad to dive deeper into African culture. And since you can’t go any further south (unless you fancy a trip to Antarctica), let’s explore your exciting options to continue across the continent!
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Cape Town boasts fantastic flight connections throughout Africa, so whether you’re dreaming of Kenya’s breathtaking wildlife or Morocco’s vibrant markets, your next epic adventure is just a flight away!
FAST FACTS
About south africa
As the southernmost country in Africa, the Republic of South Africa is a multiethnic society filled with a variety of languages, cultures, and religions. The country is known for its natural scenic wonders, from the mountains and forests, to the coasts and deserts, making it a perfect destination for endless adventures.
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GOOD TO KNOW
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The most common national languages are English and Afrikaans
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The national currency is South African Rand (ZAR)
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In restaurants and hotels you may add a 10-20% tip in ZAR if there is no service charge
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Double check your passport is valid for 6-months after your return date
Trip notes
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Going on safari means early mornings. Animals are most active in the hours after sunrise and before sunset, and the game drives follow this schedule. You do not have to take part in any drives you do not wish to do, but we highly recommend them. Exploring the African bush and getting so close to real, wild animals in their natural habitat is an incredible experience!
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Going on safari and staying in a lodge or bush camp also means you are in the wild, far away from civilization. This means you are confined to an area (the camp) and cannot go wandering on your own. Any free time will be spent in the confines of the camp, but it is incredibly relaxing!
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Please note that our bush camps are less like traditional tented camps and more like modern rooms with beds, ensuite showers, and wash facilities. Though they’re located amidst incredible nature, they include the amenities you’d expect in a hotel.
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While we can’t guarantee private rooms, you should book your trip earlier if you prefer one, as they usually fill up.​​​​
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Information regarding visa requirements and Covid restrictions can be found HERE.
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* The South Africa Trip follows a 91-Day Cancellation Policy (2025) and a 95-Day Cancellation Policy (2026), different from other FTLO Trips.
flight information
Fly into Hoedspruit Airport (HDS)
You'll need to be in Hoedspruit before 2PM (for cheaper flights, fly round trip to Cape Town and get a domestic flight from Cape Town to Hoedspruit).
Fly out of Cape Town (CPT)
Check out of the hotel is at 10:00am, but you can fly out at any time.
Please take in consideration that domestic airlines in South Africa have a luggage allowance of 6kg for hand luggage, and 21kg for checked luggage. Overweight baggage can be paid for at around R50/kg. When excess baggage or an additional baggage allocation is purchased, no single bag weighing over 32kg will be accepted and must be shipped separately as cargo.
Alumni Reviews
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but don't take our word for it! Check out some of our alumni reviews.
LEARN MORE
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