Overview
Our program brings you the best of both worlds: the consistency you rely on and the flexibility your group needs.
Immerse your students in the vibrant culture, fascinating history, and lush natural beauty of South Africa. Your class will visit Constitutional Hill, explore Boulders Beach, and take in a thrilling ostrich race at Cape Point before heading off the beaten path in Kruger National Park, home to lions, rhinos, leopards, elephants, and giraffes. Your class will also reflect on the impact of apartheid at Soweto, Robben Island, and at the Apartheid Museum.
Itinerary
Day 1
Overnight flight to South Africa (Johannesburg)
Day 2
Arrive in Johannesburg
Arrive late on day 2 or early on day 3.
Meet your Tour Director
Your 24-hour Tour Director will meet you at the airport and remain with your group until your final airport departure.
Day 3
Johannesburg guided sightseeing tour
Crackling with energy and optimism, Johannesburg captures both the hope and growing momentum of the new South Africa. Explore the vibrant streets with a local guide, where modern skyscrapers stand beside traditional Dutch architecture. Visit Constitutional Hill, a powerful symbol of justice and transformation, and take in panoramic views from the Carlton Centre, Africa’s tallest building. See the University of Johannesburg, once the Rand Afrikaans University, and stop at the Civic Centre, a hub of local government and urban life that reflects the city’s dynamic spirit.
Apartheid Museum visit
Day 4
Travel to Mpumalanga along the Panorama Route
The Panorama Route is famous for its breathtaking scenery and deep cultural heritage. Winding along the rim of the spectacular Blyde River Canyon, the world’s third largest, it offers awe-inspiring views of natural wonders like Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the striking rock formations carved by centuries of rushing water, and the sweeping vistas from God’s Window. Don’t miss the cascading beauty of Lisbon Falls and the iconic Three Rondavels, towering peaks shaped like traditional African huts.
Day 5
Kruger National Park guided excursion
Experience the thrill of an authentic African safari on a guided excursion through Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest wildlife reserve. With the help of a licensed ranger, search for the legendary Big Five—lions, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, and elephants—alongside giraffes, antelope, and zebras gathering at watering holes. Keep an eye out for the kori bustard, the world’s heaviest flying bird, as it struts through the grasslands of this unforgettable wilderness.
Day 6
Kruger National Park guided excursion
Experience the thrill of an authentic African safari on a guided excursion through Kruger National Park, South Africa’s largest wildlife reserve. With the help of a licensed ranger, search for the legendary Big Five—lions, rhinos, buffalo, leopards, and elephants—alongside giraffes, antelope, and zebras gathering at watering holes. Keep an eye out for the kori bustard, the world’s heaviest flying bird, as it struts through the grasslands of this unforgettable wilderness.
Shangaan cultural village visit
Shangaan dinner show
Day 7
Travel to Johannesburg
Participate in a local soccer match
Day 8
Soweto guided sightseeing tour
Visit Soweto, the heart of South Africa’s freedom movement and a symbol of resilience. Once a segregated township for Johannesburg’s Black workers, it became the centre of resistance to apartheid. Learn about the 1976 student uprising, a turning point in the nation’s history. See Mandela House, now a museum honoring Nelson Mandela, and Freedom Square, where the Freedom Charter declared justice and equality for all. Pass by Baragwanath Hospital, the world’s largest, serving thousands daily—a reflection of Soweto’s enduring spirit and strength.
Fly to Cape Town
Day 9
Cape Town guided sightseeing tour
It’s easy to see why so many fall in love with Cape Town, often called the most beautiful city in the world. With a licensed local guide, explore its vibrant mix of cultures and landscapes, from the brightly painted homes of the Bo-Kaap neighborhood, home to the city’s largest Muslim community, to the historic Castle of Good Hope, the heart of the old Dutch colony. Visit the South African Museum, where exhibits showcase traditional arts, natural history, and the stars of the southern skies.
Robben Island boat excursion
Robben Island, located in Cape Town’s harbor, is one of South Africa’s most powerful symbols of resilience and freedom. Once used by Dutch and British rulers to exile prisoners, lepers, and political dissidents, it became a maximum-security prison during apartheid. From 1964 to 1982, Nelson Mandela was held here under harsh conditions, along with other anti-apartheid leaders. Through endurance and solidarity, the prisoners transformed suffering into strength. Today, the island stands as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and museum honoring their struggle and triumph.
Day 10
Cape Peninsula and Table Mountain guided sightseeing tour
Discover the stunning Cape Peninsula on a guided sightseeing tour, highlighted by the iconic Table Mountain, whose flat summit offers sweeping views of Cape Town. Spot the rock dassies, tiny creatures surprisingly related to elephants, basking in the sun. Cruise past Duiker (Seal) Island, home to thousands of playful Cape fur seals, before continuing south to Cape Point, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans converge. Visit Boulders Beach to see the charming colony of African penguins, and learn about the shipwrecks that still line this dramatic, windswept coast.
Funicular railway to Cape Point
Ride the Flying Dutchman Funicular at the Cape Point Nature Reserve, a UNESCO Natural World Heritage Site. This short three-minute journey carries passengers 585 meters through lush fynbos and rocky slopes to the old lighthouse, perched 249 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. From the top, enjoy breathtaking coastal views and some of the purest air in the world. Named after the legendary ghost ship, the Flying Dutchman is the only commercial funicular of its kind in Africa.
Cape Point Ostrich Farm visit
Visit the Cape Point Ostrich Farm for a unique and entertaining experience. Watch skilled riders balance on towering ostriches as they race at surprising speeds across the track. Once prized for their elegant feathers, these birds can reach over six feet in height but are famously small-brained, making their antics all the more amusing. It’s a fun and fascinating glimpse into South Africa’s farming heritage.
Farewell African feast
Day 11
Overnight flight home from Cape Town
Day 12
Return home
TourFlex: Your Experience, Your Way
With TourFlex, available for tours departing October 2027 or later, you get the flexibility to shape an itinerary that's as unique as your group. Dial your trip up or down for more choice, more control, and more unforgettable hands-on moments, all while getting the right experience at the right value. Available options vary by program and destination.
Explore Your Way
- Add experiences like theatre tickets or unique excursions
- Swap activities for ones that better serve your group
- Extend the learning through go-aheads or stay-behinds
Go Your Way
- Choose the most accessible departure airport for your group
- Opt for 2-, 3-, or 4-star hotels that are centrally located or a convenient ride to major itinerary attractions
Dine Your Way
- Opt for pre-selected meals or encourage exploration by dining on your own
- Enjoy 2-3 course, culturally representative meals or opt for 3-course, authentic dinners at local restaurants
Already Included
WorldStrides Tour Director: A dynamic destination expert who makes learning come to life by leading your group's activities and discussions.
Transportation to & from your destination
Hotel accommodations
Daily meals, with options varying by program (ask your Program Consultant for details)
Admissions to top attractions (details in itinerary)
Guided sightseeing tours & city walks (details in itinerary)
Tips for local guides and drivers (excluding full-day bus drivers and Tour Director)
WorldAssist staff members available 24/7/365 should your group need extra help
Scenes from South Africa
Health & Safety
Additional health and safety measures may be available within your respective destination. Refer to your program-specific materials for complete details.
Financial Assistance
Financial Assistance
Through the WorldStrides Canada Financial Assistance Program (FAP), we provide travel grants to elementary and secondary school facing financial hardship. These grants, which can be up to $250 for coach tours and up to $1,000 for flight tours, are designed to make our programs more accessible to students from all backgrounds. Interested families are encouraged to speak with their school to learn more about our confidential application process.
Payment Plans
Monthly Automated Plan
Enroll with a deposit of $99 plus the cost of your travel protection plan (if included). We’ll automatically debit the rest of your tour fee from your chequing account in equal monthly payments, with the final payment due 35 days before you travel.
Please note: If two consecutive payments are declined, your account will be moved to the 4-Step Manual Plan.
4-Step Manual Plan
Manage your payments manually with a $249 initial payment plus your travel protection plan costs (if included). You’ll then make three more payments at key milestones as your departure date approaches. The final balance is due 65 days before your trip.
Please note: Payments on this plan are not automatically deducted and must be made manually.
Fundraising Tools
We are committed to helping you make your educational travel dreams a reality. We offer a comprehensive Fundraising Guide packed with creative ideas, tips, and resources to help you and your students reach your fundraising goals. From setting a timeline to brainstorming innovative campaigns, our guide provides a structured approach to make fundraising a fun and engaging experience for everyone involved.
