South Africa Kartiega Settlers Drift Eastern Cape South Africa 2

Come face-to-face with the wildest inhabitants of the Kariega private game reserve.

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South Africa Mdondoro Waterberg South Africa 3

Be wrapped around by epic landscapes in the Mhondoro game reserve.

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South Africa Mdondoro Waterberg South Africa 4

Just because you are on safari, it doesn't mean you need to scrimp on luxury...take that deep bubble bath under the starry skies at Mhondoro

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South Africa Mdondoro Waterberg South Africa 1

If your watering hole is looking a bit dry and dusty... come for a dip in Mhondoro's pool!

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South Africa Phinda Andbeyond Hluhluwe Kwazulu Natal South Africa 9

Learn about the fascinating traditions of communities that surround Phinda, and find out how to support them through the Africa Foundation.

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South Africa Three Trees At Spioenkop Kwazulu Natal South Africa 2

When the aloe vera plant flowers, birds and insects come down from the Drackenberg Mountains to drink its sweet nectar.

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 18

Discover the incredible fauna and flora at Grootbos, a stunning nature reserve that's nestled between the land and the sea.

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 17
South Africa Birkenhead House Hermanus South Africa 3

Charter a boat from Hermanus Bay to watch dolphins play in the sea.

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 19

Hermanus Bay is one of the best places on the planet to whale-watch. See the huge mammals breach in the water, just metres from the beach.

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South Africa Cape Grace Cape Town South Africa 3

Overlooked by Table Mountain and surrounded by super yachts, Cape Grace has a supreme Waterfront location.

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South Africa Cape View Clifton Cape Town South Africa 13

Enjoy uninterrupted views of the Atlantic Ocean from luxurious guesthouse Cape View Clifton.

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South Africa One And Only Cape Town South Africa 2

View the awe-inspiring sight of a mist-swirled Table Mountain from the comfort of the One and Only Cape Town.

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South Africa Kartiega Settlers Drift Eastern Cape South Africa 7

Keep your camera ready to capture unforgettable moments from your safari at Kartiega.

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South Africa Kwandwe Easterm Cape South Africa 12
South Africa Kwandwe Easterm Cape South Africa 17

Admire the beautiful symmetry of nature at the Kwandwe Private Game Reserve on the Eastern Cape.

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South Africa Babylonstoren Winelands South Africa 2

The gardeners ensure that the mountains of fresh produce from Babylonstoren's garden make it to the kitchen in time for dinner! 

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South Africa Babylonstoren Winelands South Africa 1

Enjoy the good life at Babylonstoren - a historic Cape Dutch Farm that celebrates wellbeing.

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South Africa Three Trees At Spioenkop Kwazulu Natal South Africa 3

Horse ride around the Boer War battlefields around Spioenkop.

 

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South Africa Tanda Tula Kruger South Africa 3

Enjoy extraordinary sights from the comfort of Tanda Tula Safari Camp as you merge into your natural surroundings.

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South Africa Thonga Beach Lodge Kwazulu Natal South Africa 4

Discover one of South Africa's most unspoilt beach wilderness retreats at Thonga Beach Lodge.

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 8

Incredibly diverse vistas of bird and marine life are commonplace in this area where the Atlantic and the Indian Ocean collide.

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 15

Take a hike through the pristine Milkwood forests and the fynbos-clad landscapes of the Grootbos

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 1

Marvel at the jaw-dropping panoramic views from Grootbos nature reserve.

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South Africa Kartiega Settlers Drift Eastern Cape South Africa 51

The rugged and remote landscape of the Eastern Cape will become your home during your luxurious tented safari at Settler’s Drift.

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South Africa James Jayasunderas Farm Simonsberg

The view from the farm owned by Ampersand's MD, James Jayasundera, in the ravishing South African Winelands.

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South Africa Kartiega Settlers Drift Eastern Cape South Africa 49

Experience the tranquillity of a safari by boat through the dramatic river valleys of the Kariega.

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South Africa Kwandwe Easterm Cape South Africa 16

Be ready for anything to happen on safari - watch these rhinos charge out of the bush at Kwandwe game reserve.

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South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 29

Night skies in the Kalahari Desert are not easily forgotten. Kick back around the campfire at Tswalu Kalaha and watch as a thousand stars appear.

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South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 28

At Tswalu, lantern-lit romantic dinners come replete with a telescope for stargazing.

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South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 26

Here is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity: to sleep under a canopy of stars at Tswalu in the isolated and starkly-beautiful Kalahari Desert.

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South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 19

With skilled guides and trackers, you could get up close to these magnificent beasts on a big game safari in 110,000-hectare game reserve, Tswalu.

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South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 18

Take a slower pace on a horseback safari and admire the rolling savannah against the Korannaberg Mountains in the Kalahari Desert.

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South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 16

Fingers crossed you catch sight of the captivating Caracal in the Kalahari Desert.

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South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 7

The deep reds of the Kalahari Desert will stay with you long after you've left.

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South Africa Birkenhead House Hermanus South Africa 2

This is the ultimate beach pad - Birkenhead House is slick and sophisticated with stunning views over Hermanus Bay.

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South Africa Birkenhead House Hermanus South Africa 6

Slip off your shoes and be revitalised by fresh air, white sand and a gorgeous seascape at Hermanus Bay.

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 16

Enjoy the solitude of 2500 hectares of nature reserve by horseback in the wilderness of the Grootbos.

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 13

Discover more about fynbos and other unique vegetation whilst enjoying the sweep of Walker Bay.

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South Africa Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 10

Take to the sea on a marine safari to admire colonies of endangered African penguins on Dyer Island.

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South Africa Mdondoro Waterberg South Africa 5

Enjoy a chilled glass of Chenin Blanc and watch as stars pinprick the sky at luxurious Mhondoro game reserve.

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South Africa Dulini River Lodge Kruger South Africa 1 (1)

The suites at five-star Dulini River Lodge are the height of secluded luxury and romance. 

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South Africa Dulini Leadwood Lodge Kruger South Africa 3 (1)

At Dulini Leadwood Lodge, expect high-quality modern African cuisine, beautifully presented.

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South Africa Mdondoro Waterberg South Africa 6

One of Mhondoro's highlights is the underground viewing platform at the watering hole, accessed by tunnel from the lodge.

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South Africa Singita Boulders Lodge Kruger South Africa 6

If you're lucky, you might see the solitary leopard, the second largest of African's cats, on safari in the mighty Kruger National Park.

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South Africa Singita Boulders Lodge Kruger South Africa

Exclusive Singita Boulders Camp offers a refined stay in the heart of the private Sabi Sands game reserve.

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South Africa Singita Boulders Lodge Kruger South Africa 2

The interiors at Singita Boulders Lodge are made from local wood and stone, which merge seamlessly into the raw natural beauty outside, offering a truly immersive experience.

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South Africa Boschedal Winelands South Africa 7

Soak up the tranquil views of the Drakenstein Valley at Boschendal, the oldest wine estate in South Africa.

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South Africa Marataba Safari Lodge Marataba Marakele Waterberg South Africa 20

Backed by the red mountains of the Waterberg , Marataba Marakele Safari Lodge blends smoothly into the stunning African landscape.

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South Africa Marataba Safari Lodge Marataba Marakele Waterberg South Africa 17

As the setting sun gives the Waterberg Mountains a deep glow, look out for animals, like this rhino, coming for a drink at the watering hole.

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South Africa Marataba Safari Lodge Marataba Marakele Waterberg South Africa 9

The elegant, long-necked giraffe is always a beautiful sight on safari in the Waterberg Bisophere  - an area of savannah over 14,500 kms.

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South Africa Marataba Safari Lodge Marataba Marakele Waterberg South Africa 7

A brooding elephant waits at the watering hole for the storm to break, providing a fantastic photo opportunity for visitors at the Waterberg Biosphere.

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South Africa Marataba Safari Lodge Marataba Marakele Waterberg South Africa 11

Wild beasts do not come more handsome than this tree-lounging leopard.

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South Africa Marataba Safari Lodge Marataba Marakele Waterberg South Africa 6

The luxurious eco-suite tents at Marataba offer a window of solitude to contemplate the majestic Waterberg Mountains.  

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South Africa Marataba Safari Lodge Marataba Marakele Waterberg South Africa 2

Sip a Gin and Tonic aboard a unhurried cruise along the Python Dam whilst keeping an eye out for hippos and rhinos at the water's edge.

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South Africa Dulini River Lodge Collection Kruger South Africa 5

Morning! A hippo pops up to say hello at the Sabi Sands Game Reserve.

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South Africa Dulini River Lodge Collection Kruger South Africa 3

Thrillingly close encounters with elephants and other wildlife make a stay at Dulini River Lodge extra special.

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South Africa Singita Lebombo Lodge Kruger 2

Cutting edge eco-design juxtaposes with the raw beauty of the African wilderness at Singita Lebombo Lodge.

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South Africa Singita Castleton Lodge Kruger South Africa

Stay in the exclusive-use Singita Castleton Lodge for a rustic farmhouse ambiance with the addition of a pool, gym, spa and wine cellar.

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South Africa Singita Sweni Lodge Kruger 2

You never forget the first time you hear a lion roar. Enjoy this incredible moment at height-of-luxury Singita Sweni Lodge.

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Discover Luxury South Africa Holidays

Welcome to South Africa, a land of colossal contrasts and eye watering beauty. On a luxury South Africa tour, be prepared to be completely over awed by this epic country which gives you thronging cosmopolitan cities, incredible game viewing, an unbeatable food and wine scene, and world class beaches. It is a country that gets under your skin, enticing you back time and time again.

For most travellers, it is the promise of seeing the astonishing wildlife on a luxury safari that draws them to this magnificent country. From the deep ruby red of the Kalahari desert sand dunes to the vast Kruger National Park you will be able to go in search of lions, herds of elephants and even the rare rhino; watch the fight for survival play out and bring home memories of the epic acceleration of a hunting cheetah on an epic South African safari. But wildlife holidays needn’t be restricted to land, when the migrating whales come into Walker Bay in Hermanus you'll witness the 80-tonne mammals breaching whilst you enjoy the show from the shoreline. Below the surface of the gin clear Indian Ocean on the South and Eastern Cape there are some fantastic diving spots where coral gardens shimmer as resident turtles and sharks swim by. Natural beauty is ever present in South Africa; the hiking trails of Mont Rochelle, Franschhoek are tempting for even the most vegetative of guests (aided by the promise of a good lunch afterwards!) and the white strewn beaches of the East Coast populated by surfers provide magnificent people watching.

South Africa is also a land of diverse and rich heritage, wrapped around a civilisation spanning 2,000 years, as seen by the San Bushmen rock paintings in the Western Cape, the Zulu villages in KwaZulu Natal and the Dutch colonial architecture scattered throughout the Winelands. From the fun and frivolous Cape Town, the brash and electric Johannesburg to the laid back surfer vibe of Durban these cities are melting pots of culture, places to view and buy African art and artefacts, enjoy live music or sample fantastic seafood in top quality restaurants. All of this, of course, is accompanied by not-to-be-missed South African wines.

Your South African holiday would not be complete without the finest selection of boutique hotels, luxury safari lodges and traditional Dutch farmsteads. Sometimes though, it's the little details that will remain with you – an alfresco shower under the stars, the pause when you watch a thick column of driver ants cross your safari path, or the taste of a smooth Pinotage to accompany your beach braai. Quite simply, a luxury holiday to South Africa is an epic adventure, and you won't want to leave.


Our suggested tours in South Africa

South Africa in Style: Cape, Kalahari & Safari

South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 29

13 days from £8,940 for 2024

When you visualise South Africa, do you dream of epic star-filled skies, charming colonial heritage and unparalleled game spotting –...

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Best-of-the-Best South Africa: A Short but Exquisite Tour

South Africa Singita Sweni Lodge Kruger 2

8 days from £8,375 for 2024

Being short on time doesn't mean you have to miss out on the best of the best. This itinerary showcases...

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Classic South Africa: A Wildlife & Wine Lovers' Tour

Mount Nelson Cape Town South Africa 5

15 days from £7,460 for 2024

If you want to soak up the most spectacular stretch of South Africa’s coastline and spot the Big Five in...

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A Blockbuster of Southern Africa – Cape Town, Okavango Delta & Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls Hotel Victoria Falls Zimbabwe18

13 days from £6,550 for 2024

Ever dreamt of climbing Table Mountain or gliding through the Okavango on a mekoro or drinking Earl Grey tea overlooking...

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Ampersand's Exclusive Unusual Journey to the Western Cape

South Africa Babylonstoren Winelands South Africa 2

9 days from £6,600 for 2024

Let us whisk you away to the glorious sunshine of the African summer. The ravishing Cape Winelands are at their...

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Gourmet South Africa - The Cape, Garden Route & Safari

Ellerman House1 Cape Town South Africa

14 days from £6,610 for 2024

One of the best ways to get to know South Africa is by sampling its local specialities and remarkable wines...

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South Africa with the Kids: A Zero Jet Lag Family Holiday

Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 46

11 days from £4,340 for 2024

Exploring the world through children’s eyes can be a magical experience and South Africa is an absolutely fantastic family holiday...

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Starlit South Africa: The Dream Luxury Honeymoon

Dulini River Lodge Kruger South Africa 4

13 days from £5,770 for 2024

Your honeymoon: where memories that last a lifetime are made and the trip that has to be nothing short of...

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Self-drive South Africa: An Epic Road Trip

South Africa Self Drive South Africa 2 3

10 days from £2,460 for 2024

Experience all the romance and adventure of an epic road trip, whilst staying in the lap of luxury as you...

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From Namibia to South Africa - Whales, Dunes, Shipwrecks & Wildlife

Namibia Hoanib Skeleton Coast Skeleton Coast Namibia 6

13 days from £11,470 for 2024

Take a spectacular coastal expedition beginning in Namibia at the greatest dunes on Earth in Sossusvlei and ending along the...

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Beach, Wildlife & Waterfalls - An epic holiday to South Africa, Botswana, Zambia & Mozambique

Tongabezi Lodge Victoria Falls Zambia52

16 days from £11,500 for 2024

If you have time on your hands and are seeking an unforgettable African adventure which leaves no stone unturned, look...

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An African Extravaganza: Namibia, South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe & Mozambique

Matetsi River Lodge Victoria Falls Zimbabwe27

22 days from £15,000 for 2024

This once-in-a-lifetime holiday is a celebration of Africa’s most prized hotspots. A sweeping journey from the highest dunes in Africa...

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Some of our favourite hotels in South Africa

Le Quartier Français ,
Franschhoek & The Winelands

Le Quartier Français, Franschhoek, Winelands, South Africa (11).jpg

Le Quartier Français is the quirky sister to the Leeu Collection’s Leeu House and Leeu Estates and is its most...

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7 Koppies ,
Franschhoek & The Winelands

7 Koppies, Cape Winelands, South Africa (16).jpg

7 Koppies is an impressive 5-bedroom farmhouse in the heart of The Winelands. Surrounded by 125-acres of fynbos and dramatic...

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Grootbos ,
Hermanus

Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 5

Authentic African warmth is found at this collection of luxury lodges nestled in the heart of a 2,500-hectare private nature...

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Leeu House ,
Franschhoek & The Winelands

Leeu House And Leeu Estate Winelands South Africa 9

Leeu House is a charming 12-room boutique town house hotel on the high street of Franschhoek, deep in the Cape’s...

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Ellerman House  ,
Cape Town

Ellerman House1 Cape Town South Africa

The dramatic backdrop of Lion’s Bay is the setting for the privately-owned Ellerman House. Formerly the Bantry Bay mansion of...

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Some of our favourite places of interest in South Africa

Kruger National Park

South Africa Tanda Tula Kruger South Africa 2

Not only is the Kruger National Park the most famous game reserve in all of Africa, it is probably one...

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The Garden Route

The Garden Route South Africa

The glorious natural beauty of the Garden Route is a 200-kilometre slender stretch of attractive forest-backed coastline. Beginning in Mossel...

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West Coast

Bushmans Kloof Cedeberg West Coast South Africa 4

South Africa’s West Coast is a local secret, often overlooked by tourists in favour of the lure of the Garden...

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Kalahari

South Africa Tswalu Kalahari South Africa 2

The very word Kalahari, meaning ‘thirsty land’, summons up visions of a sun baked desert, a stark landscape strewn with...

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Franschhoek & The Winelands

Leeu House And Leeu Estate Winelands South Africa 39

Just a short hop from Cape Town, venturing into the ‘uplands’, you'll find yourself in the heart of South Africa’s superb wine...

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Hermanus

Grootbos Hermanus South Africa 52

The small town of Hermanus, east of Cape Town on the southern coast, is predominantly known for its amazing whale-watching. The season...

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Related Blog Posts

Read some of our hand-picked blog posts for South Africa


Client Testimonials

We had a wonderful holiday - everything was perfect. Thank you for helping us to make a thoughtful plan to enjoy and make most out of our trip. The places we visited, the guides, the transportation and driver, the hotels selected... Everything was great!
- Jaime Benitez, South India
Ampersand provided a bespoke and flexible holiday, tailored to my every whim. Their highly professional staff had only one goal which was to arrange an exceptional holiday and some unforgettable experiences in India. I have no hesitation in fully recommending them and they will be the first company I approach in the future - 10/10
- Anonymous, India
Everything you did for us whilst we were away was hugely appreciated, and Ampersand has been exemplary in every way. I'll always recommend you!
- Mr Richard Stoughton, Sri Lanka
I thought the Ampersand team was outstanding. We couldn’t have hoped for anything more.
- Mr Geoffrey Johnson, India
Ampersand’s preparation, attention to detail and interaction before and during our trip show exactly why good travel agents have a role in today’s internet booking age. They were a delight to deal with!
- Mr David Wallace, North India
I had a very lovely time and was looked after splendidly. My first visit to India could not have been better, save for being longer! But I shall return at some point and I shall look to you to make the arrangements.
- Matthew Nicklin, North India
I would recommend Ampersand without any hesitation!!! The best travel agent that I’ve ever had. Everything – from the individual care and attention in planning the trip, through to the efficiency of the agents on the ground in India – was handled brilliantly. An absolutely first-class service all round!
- Matthew Annable, Rajasthan, India
Difficult to articulate just how good the service from you and your team really was. We know you will continue to do well and hope we have the chance to seek your assistance again before long.
- Mr & Mrs Manson, North India
Without question, you put together the best trip I have ever taken. We were shown around like visiting dignitaries, the hotels were fantastic and the itinerary was just right. Everybody I know will hear about how amazing Ampersand is!
- Leslie Siben, India
So many highlights to choose from! The hotels were amazing but Maya Villa was a highlight… I loved just hanging out in the hammock reading my book and watching the peacocks chase the cows!
- Krista Weir, Sri Lanka

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