South Africa & Zimbabwe Trip Review: Cape Town, Robben Island, Cape Peninsula, Safari, Wildlife, Big 5, Food Tour, Wine Tasting

The agency provided first-class hotels and tours. Each hotel was a unique, boutique hotel that provided individual attention to us. A hot breakfast was prepared to order each day, and at some locations, afternoon tea and treats.

We did a 3-day safari for the first time at the lodge in Utlha that was life changing. Seeing the wildlife so close was exciting and awe inspiring. We saw the Big 5 by the first day on safari. We had two 3-hour drives each day, stopping for drinks and snacks in the wild before returning. Lunch and dinner back at the Lodge were expertly prepared by 5-star chefs, served outdoors in a beautiful panoramic atmosphere. Our suite was perfectly located near the dining boma and the watering hole where animals came to drink. It was exquisitely designed, spacious, and equipped with modern amenities and features. 
Our tours were well planned and executed. The drivers picked us up in luxury cars each day, equipped with luxury accoutrements, cold water throughout the day, cool face cloths, and a knowledgeable, professional guide.
One tour that was the most fun, the food tour in Cape Town, led by our guide — allowed us to eat our way the through town while learning the history of South Africa and Cape Town. She was a hoot, and an amazing historian. She chose excellent locations for us to knosh, grab a coffee, shop, and even taste roibos tea. Five Stars! 

Another tour that was equally exciting was the Winelands Tour, which fell on my birthday. We tasted several excellent wines at the Ernie Els Winery, but they were eclipsed by the beauty of the estate. A birthday lunch followed at the Delaire Graff Restaurant, which is one of the most elegant restaurants I’ve ever seen. The food was outstanding, but the atmosphere was even more impressive. It made for a lovely birthday celebration.

Seeing the beautiful landscape and natural wonders of South Africa was very satisfying. On other tours we saw: Cape Peninsula - the penguins, ostrich and birds, and the sea views; Robben Island, sobering but heartfelt; and Table Mountain, simply magnificent.
The most memorable gem of our trip was meeting the South African people. As African Americans, this was a touchstone of our journey. They were welcoming and so friendly in a way that was unexpected, but so meaningful. They were interested in us, where we were from, and how they could help improve our stay. They shared stories and laughter. Priceless.