Overview
Safari your way
Experience the highlights of South Africa from a selection of the very best exclusive-use villas for the ultimate private African adventure for your family and friends.
From ultra-chic ocean views in Cape Town and playful opulence in the Winelands, to your very own luxury safari lodge bordering the Kruger and a fabulous home surrounded by the near endless wilderness of the Kalahari, each property and landscape is distinct.
Throughout, enjoy private tours tailored to your group’s interests and ages, your own guides and vehicles for a completely flexible safari, fabulous food from private chefs and curated wine cellars. Each of the properties we’ve chosen for this trip all have at least four bedrooms, meaning it works for groups of up to eight people – get in touch for something completely bespoke to you.
Highlights
Trip highlights
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Fabulous ocean views from Ellerman Villa
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The palatial La Residence in the Winelands
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Wonderful wildlife from Royal Malewane’s Africa House
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Real wilderness and connection in the vast Tswalu Kalahari Reserve
Inclusions
What's included
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11 nights of exclusive use accommodation
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Exclusive private tours, experiences and safari activities
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Private charter flights and transfers throughout
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Price per person based on a group of eight
An unforgettable trip with a positive impact
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Community & Culture
Properties and experiences that uplift and empower local communities.
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Conservation
Supports wildlife projects, protected areas and ecosystem regeneration.
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Footprint
Lodges and camps chosen for their sustainability credentials and initiatives.
Days 1 — 4
Cape Town views
Cape Town is a wonderful introduction to South Africa. Stay at one of Ellerman House’s chic modern villas, with unmatched sea views through floor-to-ceiling windows and infinity pool, perhaps with the sumptuous spa booked out just for you.
Outside, see Cape Town’s highlights and its stunning surroundings on privately guided tours with plenty of time to discover the buzzing Waterfront, art galleries and restaurant scene at your own pace. You will be shown around the city’s historic and cultural landmarks before heading up the iconic Table Mountain for unforgettable views. And on a day out exploring the Cape Peninsula’s dramatic coastline, share a beach with penguins and get a chance to spot whales from the shore.
Days 4 — 6
Opulence in the Winelands
South Africa’s Winelands are a beautiful area of combed green vineyards dotted with Cape Dutch farmhouses backed by rugged mountains and blue skies. Here, you’ll be staying at one of South Africa’s most famous hotels – the opulent La Residence, with two fabulous two-bedroom suites along with the services of a private chef.
If you can pull yourself away from its lavish grounds, join a passionate local oenologist to indulge in the best local produce, visiting a blend of historic wineries with centuries of history and new upstarts pioneering biodynamic and organic winemaking.
Days 6 — 9
The Kruger's finest
Spot South Africa’s most iconic wildlife on a safari in a private reserve bordering the legendary Kruger National Park based out of one of Royal Malewane’s lavish Africa House. At your self-contained bush paradise, you may be greeted by elephants by your pool and rhinos at breakfast.
Morning and afternoon game drives are a staple and the best way to see lion, cheetah and more up close while leopards are a particular highlight of the area. Immersive walking safaris led by expert trackers and exciting night drives get you closer to nature and more unusual species, while unique dining experiences out in the bush under the stars will stay with you for years to come.
Days 9 — 12
Conservation and near endless space
111,000 hectares of rugged mountains, red Kalahari sands and green grassland – the largest private reserve in South Africa – home to just three lodges, of which you will be staying in the exclusive-use Tarkuni. Add in much-lauded conservation work, community engagement projects plus a concept restaurant created by South African Michelin-star chef, and you can see why Tswalu is a very special place indeed.
Wildlife on this restored farmland is diverse and surprising, from enigmatic predators such as lions, cheetahs and wild dogs, endangered species like black rhinos and giraffes, to rarities such as aardvarks, pangolins, brown hyenas, meerkats and bat-eared foxes. With your private field guide, vehicle and tracker, you can spend as long as you wish at sightings or indulging in your own personal interests, returning to Tarkuni to be well looked after by the host team including a chef and butler.
Start your adventure here
Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
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Example trips
Get inspired
Browse our example trips and get in contact to start planning your very own adventure.
What makes us different
Why Niarra
Niarra Travel is a forward-thinking travel company headquartered in London born out of a passion to do things differently.
In Swahili, a Bantu language spoken by millions in Eastern, Central and Southern Africa, the name Niara means "with utmost purpose" and our team are united by a passion for exploration and a belief that the right kind of travel can make the world a better place.
Our Travel Researchers are here to create incredible trips with a positive impact for you.
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Unforgettable experiences
Creating your trip is entirely collaborative and our Travel Researchers are here for every step.
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Positive impact
Curated sustainable experiences and accommodation that maximize the benefits to local people and place.
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Fairness and transparency
An open, competitive pricing structure that ensures more money goes to where it's needed in the destination.
