The Best Of Bush and Beach - A Luxury Family Safari South Africa Reconnecting Through Travel, Adventure & Wilderness
- concierge146
- Jan 13
- 9 min read
Updated: Feb 21
#luxuryfamilysafarisouthafrica #luxurysafarigamelodgesouthafrica #familysafaripackages #luxurycapetownholidaypackages #luxurycapetownhotels
Renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and vibrant cultural tapestry, South Africa was the chosen destination for Lorraine and her four children as they sought to embark on a journey of reconnection and mutual growth. Driven by a desire to strengthen familial bonds, Lorraine envisioned an adventure that seamlessly intertwined luxury and meaningful experiences.
From the cosmopolitan allure of Cape Town to the tranquil vineyards of Franschhoek and the untamed wilderness of Kruger National Park, each locale was carefully selected to offer a perfect blend of exploration and wellness. Through this enchanting family escape in South Africa, Lorraine aimed not only to provide an escape from their daily routines but also to foster a deep sense of togetherness and rejuvenation for her family, creating cherished memories and renewed connections that would last a lifetime. Let us guide you through this soulful and awe-inspiring exploration, where every moment is designed to inspire and elevate your family journey.
Discovering Cape Town's Allure
Arrival and Relaxation
Upon arriving in Cape Town, the family was greeted by the stunning panorama of Table Mountain, setting the tone for a journey filled with awe and discovery.
Settling into a spacious 6 bedroom beachfront villa in the prestigious Clifton on Cape towns shores, they were treated to breathtaking ocean views that immediately instilled a sense of tranquility and relaxation. This first evening was about unwinding from their travels and savoring the simple joys of togetherness.
They enjoyed a home-cooked meal with private chef, taking the opportunity to reconnect and share their excitement about the days ahead. The relaxed by the villa's pool overlooking the white sands of Camps Bay Beach, while Lorraine took a moment to reflect on how much she valued these shared experiences. The stillness of that first night allowed the family to ease into the rhythms of Cape Town, preparing them for the adventure-packed days that would follow.
The family's exploration of Cape Town began with coastal walks along to Clifton beaches then onto a journey up the iconic Table Mountain. Taking the cable car, they were treated to sweeping panoramic views of the city, the perfect backdrop for creating lasting memories. The majestic beauty of the landscape inspired conversations about nature's wonders and the importance of preserving it.
After descending, they ventured to the vibrant V&A Waterfront, a bustling hub of shops, restaurants, and entertainment. Lunchtime found them at Baia Seafood Restaurant, where the family enjoyed fresh, locally sourced seafood and kid-friendly options that pleased every palate. Their curiosity led them to the Two Oceans Aquarium, where the children were mesmerized by the diverse marine life, sparking discussions about ocean conservation. The day's adventures blended education and enjoyment, deepening their appreciation for Cape Town's unique offerings and leaving them eager for the experiences that awaited in the days to come.
Spa Day and Zip-lining Excursions
The third day in Cape Town offered a perfect balance of relaxation and thrill. Lorraine indulged in a serene spa day at the luxurious One&Only Spa with her daughters. Here, they embraced mindfulness exercises and enjoyed a rejuvenating massage, allowing them to unwind and center herself amidst the serene ambiance. Meanwhile, her son's embarked on an exhilarating ziplining excursion in Hout Bay. Soaring above the lush landscape, they laughed and cheered each other on, creating memories of shared excitement and adventure. This day of diverse experiences culminated in a family dinner at Kloof Street House, where they relived the day's highlights over a hearty meal. Lorraine cherished these moments of reconnection, feeling grateful for the opportunity to blend luxury and adventure in their South African journey.
Immersed in Franschhoek's Charm
A scenic drive led the family to the picturesque town of Franschhoek, South Africa’s culinary and wine haven. The journey itself was a visual feast, with rolling vineyards and majestic mountains framing their path. Upon arrival, the family immediately felt the slower, more relaxed pace, offering a perfect setting for deepening their connections. Lorraine and the others indulged in a mindful wine-tasting session at the renowned La Motte Wine Estate, where they savored the rich flavors against the backdrop of tranquil surroundings. Lunch at Le Petite Colombe presented an exquisite gourmet menu that catered to all tastes, enhancing their culinary exploration. This day in Franschhoek was a delightful blend of sensory experiences that enriched their understanding of South African culture and fostered a sense of togetherness.
Family Adventures and Gourmet Dining
Still in Franschhoek, the family embarked on a series of adventures that catered to all interests. A visit to the Franschhoek Motor Museum captivated their imagination, as they explored an impressive collection of vintage cars. This sparked lively discussions about automotive history, bridging generational gaps through shared curiosity. The museum's setting, against the backdrop of the Drakenstein Mountains, added an element of grandeur to their exploration.
With appetites whetted, the family headed to Le Petite Colombe for a gourmet dining experience that promised to delight. The innovative menu, featuring locally sourced ingredients, offered dishes that were both visually stunning and palate-pleasing. Everyone found favorites, making the meal a shared highlight of their day. Each course was an opportunity to unwind and savor the moment, reinforcing the bonds they were nurturing on this journey. By the day's end, the family felt more connected than ever, enriched by the experiences they had shared in this charming town.
Evening Arrival At The Best Luxury Family Safari in South Africa
The family’s adventure continued as they arrived at the Sabi Sands National Park, ready to immerse themselves in the untamed beauty of South Africa's wilderness. After a short flight from Cape Town, they settled into a luxurious, family-friendly lodge that perfectly blended comfort with the raw allure of the African bush. Excitement buzzed in the air as they prepared for their first evening safari.
As the sun dipped below the horizon, casting a golden glow over the savannah, they embarked on their inaugural game drive. The thrill of spotting elephants, giraffes, and antelopes in their natural habitat was palpable, evoking awe and wonder in everyone.
Dinner that night was a traditional South African braai under the stars, where the family gathered around a crackling fire. This magical setting fostered a deep sense of togetherness, as they shared stories and laughter, feeling more connected than ever amidst the wild beauty of Kruger.
Personal Coaching and Mindfulness in the Wilderness
During their stay at the private 5 star family game lodge villa, the family had the unique opportunity to be guided by a personal coach, Eliza, an expert in mindfulness and wellness. Eliza was pivotal in enhancing their journey with daily practices that nurtured both their minds and bodies, creating space for deeper familial connections amidst the stunning backdrop of the African wilderness.
Daily Meditation, Breathwork, and Gratitude Practices
Each morning began with a serene meditation session led by Eliza. Situated on the veranda, overlooking the breathtaking landscape, the family learned techniques to focus their thoughts and center themselves for the day's adventures. Eliza introduced them to breathwork exercises, designed to enhance mindfulness and reduce stress, which became invaluable tools throughout their travels. Inspired by her teachings, the family also embraced daily gratitude practices, where they reflected on the day's experiences and the natural beauty surrounding them. These combined rituals of meditation, breathwork, and gratitude deepened their bonds and fostered a collective sense of peace and happiness.
Daily Game Drives and Cultural Exploration
In the heart of Kruger National Park, the family's daily routine unfolded with morning and evening game drives, each journey offering fresh opportunities to witness Africa's magnificent wildlife. With the guidance of expert rangers, they were fortunate to spot the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo—creating unforgettable moments of awe and excitement. Each drive was a new chapter in their adventure, deepening their appreciation for the delicate balance of nature.
Afternoons at the private luxury game lodge provided a blend of relaxation and mindfulness, with yoga sessions and guided meditations overlooking the bush. These moments of calm reflection were invaluable in fostering inner peace and family bonds. One of the trip's highlights was a visit to a nearby cultural village, where they engaged with the Shangaan people. This enriching experience offered insights into local traditions and ways of life, expanding their understanding and respect for the diverse cultures of South Africa.
Building Lasting Memories
The combination of mindfulness, personal coaching, and the awe-inspiring setting of Kruger National Park created an unforgettable experience for the family. Through Eliza's guidance, they developed meaningful practices that not only enriched their time in the wilderness but also equipped them with a framework for maintaining these connections and insights upon returning home. The memories and skills they cultivated during this trip were lasting gifts, reinforcing their bonds and empowering them to carry the essence of mindfulness into their everyday lives.
The Itinerary
Days 1-5: Cape Town – The Mother City
Day 1: The Journey Begins
Picked up by a private luxury driver and VIP airport express service.
Greeted by their villa hosts and settled into their indulgent suites with ocean views.
Welcome cocktails and sunset snacks overlooking Table Mountain.
In-room massages to relax after their journey.
Starlit dinner to celebrate the start of their adventure.
Day 2: Table Mountain and Waterfront
Morning cable car ride up Table Mountain with breathtaking views.
A la carte breakfast designed to individual preferences.
Lunch at the V&A Waterfront and a visit to the Two Oceans Aquarium.
Evening yoga to unwind, followed by a light family dinner.
Day 3: Spa Day and Adventure
Lorraine enjoyed a rejuvenating spa session at One&Only Spa, including meditation and massage.
The kids experienced ziplining in Hout Bay, creating lasting memories of laughter and thrill.
Cozy dinner at Kloof Street House to share the day’s highlights.
Day 4: Cape Peninsula Tour
Scenic drive through Chapman’s Peak and Cape Point with stops at Boulders Beach to see penguins.
Family picnic lunch amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Quiet evening reflecting on the beauty of the day.
Day 5: Robben Island and Local Markets
Lorraine and her older children visited Robben Island for a historical tour.
The younger kids explored Greenmarket Square and picked out handcrafted souvenirs.
Dinner at The Pot Luck Club, a delightful blend of sharing and laughter.
Day 6: Franschhoek – A Day in the Winelands
A scenic drive brought the family to Franschhoek, South Africa’s culinary and wine capital.
Family enjoyed a mindful wine-tasting session at La Motte Wine Estate.
Gourmet lunch at Le Petite Colombe and a visit to the Franschhoek Motor Museum.
Evening spent enjoying scenic views and quiet family conversations.
Days 7-15: Sabi Sands – Safari Adventure
The family flew to Sabi Sands, beginning a thrilling safari experience.
Day 7: Arrival and First Safari
Warm welcome at their luxury lodge and orientation.
First game drive spotting elephants, giraffes, and zebras.
Starlit dinner celebrating the start of their wilderness journey.
Days 8-14: Mindfulness in Nature
Each morning began with a serene meditation session led by Eliza on the veranda, overlooking the breathtaking landscape. The family learned techniques to focus their thoughts and center themselves for the day’s adventures.
Eliza introduced them to breathwork exercises, designed to enhance mindfulness and reduce stress, which became invaluable tools throughout their travels.
The family embraced daily gratitude practices, reflecting on the day’s experiences and the natural beauty surrounding them.
Morning and evening game drives offered opportunities to witness Africa’s magnificent wildlife, including the Big Five—lions, leopards, rhinos, elephants, and buffalo.
Afternoons at the lodge blended relaxation and mindfulness, with yoga sessions and guided meditations overlooking the bush.
A highlight was a visit to a nearby cultural village, where the family engaged with the Shangaan people, gaining insights into local traditions and ways of life.
Day 15: Farewell to South Africa
Heartfelt breakfast and final reflections on the journey.
Private transport to the airport for their flight home, carrying memories to last a lifetime.
Inclusions and Pricing
15 Nights Luxury Accommodation
All Meals, Drinks & Snacks
Private Chef and Custom Menu
Private Driver and Car Service On Tap
Meditation & Yoga Classes
Spa and Massage Treatments
Guided Tours and Safaris
Cultural Visits and Game Drives
Wellness Coach and Facilitator on Safari
All Activities
Internal Flights
Pricing: $1,828 Per Person/Per Night
Not Included
Air Travel to South Africa
Why They Loved It?
For Lorraine, the trip was an unforgettable blend of luxury and discovery that beautifully combined relaxation, adventure, and cultural immersion. She cherished the tranquil moments of reflection in spectacular landscapes, the warm bonds shared with her family, and the exciting encounters with South Africa's stunning experiences and wildlife. From serene spa retreats and sophisticated wine tastings to exhilarating safaris and cultural engagements, each experience offered a unique opportunity for connection and personal rejuvenation. The seamless blend of nature's wonders and heartfelt human moments left Lorraine profoundly grateful, with lasting memories and a renewed sense of unity with her family.
Testimonial from Lorraine
Our 15-day trip to South Africa was nothing short of extraordinary and truly life-changing for my family. The organization was flawless from start to finish. Eliza, our host during the safari, was exceptional. Her mindfulness sessions each morning, teaching us breathwork and gratitude practices, transformed the trip into something far deeper than a holiday. She helped us reconnect as a family, encouraging moments of reflection and togetherness that have left a lasting impact.
From the breathtaking views in Cape Town to the serene vineyards of Franschhoek and the awe-inspiring wildlife of the Sabi Sands, every detail was meticulously planned. Seeing the Big Five up close was thrilling, but it was Eliza’s gentle guidance that made us slow down, appreciate the beauty around us, and cherish the time we had with each other. This journey didn’t just give us memories; it brought us closer together and changed the way we live and connect as a family. It was truly beyond anything we could have imagined.Thank you for an unforgettable journey!
Way beyond my expectation, thank you!
Lorraine, USA, Mum
