Program Itinerary:
Please note that while every effort has been made to finalize this customized itinerary, it remains subject to potential adjustments or modifications. We strive to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants, and any changes will be communicated promptly.
On arrival in Cape Town, you are met by our “VIP” representative, who will assist you with immigration formalities, help you collect your luggage, and guide you through to the arrivals hall. As you enter the arrivals hall, look for an African Travel Inc. representative, holding a sign with your name on it. You will be assisted to your transfer vehicle and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at leisure, with a welcome dinner arranged at your hotel, where you can relax and enjoy a delicious meal to kick off your stay in Cape Town.
Arrival Transfer
• Included on a group basis
Accommodation
THE COMMODORE HOTEL
Image of The Commodore Hotel
Start your day with a full-day Cape Peninsula Tour, exploring the dramatic landscapes of the Cape of Good Hope. Ride the funicular to the iconic lighthouse for breathtaking ocean views before heading to Boulders Beach to see the charming African penguins up close.
Enjoy a seaside lunch at Seaforth, savoring fresh seafood with a scenic backdrop. In the evening, immerse yourself in the rhythms of Africa at GOLD Restaurant with an interactive djembe drumming session, followed by a flavorful multi-course dinner showcasing diverse African cuisine. Transfers ensure a seamless and unforgettable experience.
Accommodation
THE COMMODORE HOTEL
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Image of iconic lighthouse (Cape of Good Hope)
Begin your adventure packed day with a very early morning departure from Cape Town to reach Aquila Private Game Reserve (Klein Karoo area) in time for a wildlife Experience among rugged South African landscapes aboard specially designed Safari vehicle. Led by experienced game rangers and field guides, our morning time half-day safari offers an unparalleled opportunity to witness South Africa’s iconic Big Five – lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, and buffalo – in their natural habitat. Beyond the Big Five, the reserve is teeming with giraffes, zebras, antelope, and an array of birdlife. Each moment offers a chance to capture stunning wildlife photos and learn fascinating facts about the Klein Karoo’s unique ecosystem. Perfect for first timers and seasoned safari enthusiasts, this experience offers the ultimate escape into nature’s raw and untamed beauty.
A hearty local lunch will be served after the safari experience along our drive to the elegant Grande Roche Hotel in Paarl. Nestled at the foot of the majestic Paarl Rock, this historic estate blends Cape Dutch heritage with modern sophistication, offering a tranquil escape amid rolling vineyards. Upon arrival late afternoon, settle into your Terrace Suite, where refined comfort meets breathtaking vineyard views. As the sun sets, indulge in a carefully curated dining experience at a renowned local restaurant, savoring the finest seasonal flavors and award-winning wines of the region. Retreat to the serenity of your suite, ready for another day of luxury in the heart of the Cape Winelands
Accommodation
GRANDE ROCHE HOTEL
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
View the Big 5 while on safari.
View the Big 5 while on safari.
Image of giraffe, one of the many animals you may view on safari.
Image of the Grand Roche Hotel
After breakfast at the Grande Roche Hotel, you will be briefed by Paul D. Maley a veteran of 87 prior eclipses of the Sun who will present an engaging session on the Partial Solar Eclipse. Afterwards choose where you would like to set up for eclipse photography. Whether by or even in the pool or anywhere else on hotel grounds. You will have no competition. There is plenty of room and a good horizon since the Sun’s elevation during the eclipse process will be moderately high. Note, that if you are bringing a tracking mount be sure it will be able to track in the southern hemisphere. There is plenty of time to prepare since first contact begins after lunch at 2:01pm with the Sun at an elevation of 64 degrees above the northwest horizon. Maximum eclipse is reached at 2:44pm when 5.6% of the Sun’s disc is blocked by the Moon at an elevation of 57 degrees above the west-northwest horizon. The Moon will exit from in front of the Sun at 3:26pm. This should provide a leisurely experience to review your images with plenty of time to adjust exposures.
After the eclipse take time to explore the estate, relax by the pool, or take in the surrounding vineyards. As evening sets in, indulge in an elegant dinner at the Grande Roche Restaurant, where fine dining and warm hospitality bring the day to a perfect close
Bonus feature – Nighttime Southern Sky Star Gazing (weather permitting)
Extend your experience into the night with a “bonus hosted star gazing” gathering that will bring to life the stars in the southern sky which cannot be seen here in North America.
Accommodation
GRANDE ROCHE HOTEL
Meals included: breakfast, lunch, dinner
Image of potential Stargazing in the Southern Hemisphere.
Enjoy a final leisurely morning at Grande Roche Hotel, taking in the tranquil vineyard views before a seamless private transfer to Cape Town International Airport (CPT). Upon arrival, a Meet & Greet service ensures a smooth group departure, assisting with check-in and final travel details.
For those wishing to extend their journey, exclusive post-extension options are available to Kruger National Park and Victoria Falls, offering more time to explore Southern Africa’s breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, or luxurious retreats.
Meals included: breakfast
Deposit & Registration:
1st Deposit at time of registration: $2800.00 per person nonrefundable
2nd Deposit due May 31, 2025: $4000.00 per person nonrefundable
Deposits are accepted by credit card only.
Final payment is due September 30, 2025. All monies are non-refundable.
Registrations are acknowledged in order received. For questions about registrations or billing contact Direct Travel by phoning +1 309-834-3739 or toll free 1-866-592-0455; or by email reservations@directtravelgroups.com.
Cancellations and Refunds:
Cancellation fees are based on the date the written notice is received by Direct Travel
(notification of cancellation must be received in writing).
A full copy of our terms can be found on the eclipsetours.com website.
Up to May 31, 2025: $2,800 per person nonrefundable
June 1, 2025 – August 31, 2025: $4,000 per person nonrefundable
September 30, 2025 onwards: 100% of the trip cost is nonrefundable
Travel Insurance:
We highly recommend the purchase of trip cancellation and delay insurance (cancel for any reason is recommended) and out of country medical insurance (to include emergency evacuation) once your deposit becomes nonrefundable. If you decline travel insurance, we will require you to sign a waiver indicating you declined all insurance offered by Direct Travel.
Complete one registration form per person. You will be confirmed only after BOTH a deposit AND registration form have been received by Direct Travel.
