Explore our small group scheduled departure itineraries below, which are fully supported and guided from beginning to end for the ultimate hassle-free and stress-free adventure. All our itineraries focus on travelling deeper, more authentically and in a way that uplifts the communities you visit to ensure a long lasting positive impact.
Let us help you create your ultimate holiday to any of the countries in Southern or Eastern Africa. One that’s even better than you can dream up on your own. And oh so much easier!
How does it work?
Step 1: Complete questionnaire
Nobody does travel quite like you. That's why we don't do generic mainstream packages. Ever. Working with
you we'll tailor an itinerary around your
unique style, budget, and precise needs.
Step 2: Tweak & Reserve
Once we've fine-tuned and confirmed your itinerary until you are 100% in love with it, we'll flesh things out and book flights, accommodation
and activities.
Which country would you like to discover?
South Africa ….With its breath-taking landscapes, incredible wildlife, stunning cultural diversity, its never-ending coastlines of crystal blue ocean, hiking routes, exciting cities and emergence as one of the gastronomic hotspots of the world. This country truly has it all!
Home to the Namib desert, the oldest desert in the world, the inhospitable Kalahari Desert, and the Skeleton Coast that is as rugged and desolate as its name implies, this is a country of stark dramatic landscapes, wide open spaces and a feeling of vastness which will truly leave you humbled.
The Victoria Falls marks the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe and can be accessed from both countries, each offering their own distinctive beauty and activities. But the waterfall is just the beginning. The Victoria Falls are framed on both sides with beautiful national parks, and the local wildlife is thriving. You can start a day with visiting the majestic Falls, and finish your day with a safari experience of a lifetime by tracking rhino on foot.
Botswana is justly considered the crème de la crème of African safari destinations.
This is not surprising, since the diversity of habitat boggles the mind – desert, rivers, salt pans, savannah and lakes to mention a few. And diversity of habitat leads to incredible diversity of wildlife and breath-taking animal sightings.
This is the Africa we all fell in love with the first time we watched the Lion King. Between its remarkable people and local cultures, its thriving wildlife, its fairy-tale landscapes and the beautiful exotic beaches of Zanzibar and other smaller islands, Tanzania truly is an unforgettable holiday destination.
The island of Mauritius, with its 160km of picture-perfect beaches and azure waters, its lush interiors and sparkling waterfalls, is one of the most popular destinations in the Indian ocean.
Easily accessible by direct flight from Johannesburg, this very affordable destination is malaria free, and a favourite place for honeymooners, families and young adventurers alike to unwind after an unforgettable African safari. With over a hundred beaches and distinct regional differences, this extremely versatile island truly offers something for everyone.
Picture yourself lying on a white sandy beach, palm trees above you rustling from a gentle breeze, the waves lapping at your toes, while you lazily sip on your lavish cocktail. The only decision left to make for the day is whether or not to take one more dip in the gin-clear waters in front of you before heading off to your romantic candlelit champagne dinner, or to go for a romantic massage... Cliché? Perhaps, but in this case the cliché really does exist.
The Seychelles is what most people will automatically picture when dreaming of a secluded paradisiac island. As the chosen location for movies such as Castaway and Robinson Crusoe, it is easy to see why this island nation has become a quintessential honeymoon destination - it is truly gorgeous.
And yet, the Seychelles is so much more than just a collection of beautiful white sandy beaches. The nation is comprised of 115 islands, of varying sizes and characteristics, some rocky and mountainous, others lush with dense forested areas, and others still are exotic with palm trees overlooking dreamy beaches and low-lying coral reefs.
Kenya is the birthplace of the world renowned African safari, literally. Meaning “journey” in Swahili, the word safari was first introduced to the English language in the 1850s by an intrepid adventurer called Sir Richard Francis Burton. Kenya’s mystical pull over the rest of the world has not diminished over the centuries since then.
Unspoiled and untamed, with over 2,500km of uninterrupted coastline and clusters of postcard-perfect islands dotting its shore, Mozambique is a little corner of paradise. Its pristine white sands and turquoise waters can rival those of the Maldives or Seychelles, yet it is more affordable than these islands. It is also less built-up than most Indian ocean islands. For now, Mozambique is still well-off the beaten tourist track, however it is fast becoming the place to go for those searching for some sand, sea and sun in Africa.
Contact us now!
Join our next Guided Small Groups
CAPE PENINSULA
DAY TOUR
This full day tour takes in all the heavyweight sights of the Cape Peninsula. Guests are collected from their central accommodation and can look forward to the following: Cape Point, Cape of Good Hope, Boulders Beach penguin colony, Kalk Bay, Chapmans Peak Drive and Camps Bay.
Includes:
+ Qualified tour guide
+ All National Park entrance fees
+ Chapman’s Peak toll fee
+ Light lunch
+ Instagram-worthy stops
+ Spectacular scenery by the bucketloads
+ Dreamy seaside stops
Why book with The Travel Café?
We Know Our Stuff
As a boutique agency comprised of a few African travel experts, we guarantee an intimate experience from start to end, exceptional attention to detail and a bespoke personal touch at every turn. Unlike large tour operators, we deliberately choose quality over quantity and passion over profit!
We Are Passionate
It might sound corny in a world that often ranks margin above all else, but because we truly work with all our hearts when designing journeys and experiences for our guests we go much further than if we were “counting the hours”. As enthusiastic explorers ourselves, we are constantly researching and discovering new finds to add a magical touch to our guest itineraries.
We Care
JD’s background is as a travel journalist and François worked in the airline industry for 12 years. Together, and apart, we have crisscrossed this continent time and again, and continue to do so. Our deep love, respect and knowledge of the region put us in an enviable position to curate the best our continent has to offer.
We Build Your
Dreamtrip
You are in the driving seat every step of the way. We will work around your requirements, budget and needs and won't give up until we've designed a trip that is even better than what you could dream up on your own, and we will keep tweaking and refining until you're 100% thrilled. With us you have nothing to lose, and so much to gain.
Authentic travel to experience Southern & Eastern Africa's soul
There is a an Africa that’s exactly right for you. Our passion is to help you get it right, right from the start. That way you can squeeze every bit of goodness from your once-in-a-lifetime trip, get to experience the real heart of our wonderful country, and return home with bucket memories that will be the envy of your friends and family.
Nothing makes us happier than using our extensive local know-how to create a truly authentic trip for you, in the safest and most unforgettable way. What is the “real” South Africa, Namibia, Victoria Falls, Tanzania, Botswana, Mozambique or any Indian Ocean Islands? For us it’s the difference between just being a spectator, or fully experiencing and engaging – immersing yourself in the culture, travelling in a way that’s been tailored to you rather than generic mainstream packages, and frequently veering off the well-trodden track.
That’s why The Travel Cafe was born, and that’s our commitment to you, whether you’re just after an experience
or fancy a truly unique trip
that’s been tailored to be right just for you.
Much love until we meet under the sunny Southern or Eastern African skies,
François and JD organised our romantic trip to the Kruger for us and everything was perfect. They were very quick to suggest a list of different options for us, matching our needs and budget. They took care of all the admin and details and we didn't have to worry about a thing! I've never been so at ease about a holiday, as I usually take care of everything myself. The travel app is really well designed and personalised. I loved the service and I absolutely recommend them for your next African trip!
Aurélie, France
JD, Francois & The Travel Cafe are brilliant. Everything from the start of our trip to the finish has been wonderful & taken care of. Personally, this has been the best experience with any travel agents/trip-planners (and I have dealt with many). They take away all your sorrows and we got to see so much more than when we would have booked by ourselves. They made us feel at ease and maximized our enjoyment of the trip.
All in all, fantastic.
Iron, Netherlands
The Travel Cafe is exactly what any traveller wants (and needs)! Personal, swift, full of hidden gems, and tailored to your wishes and budget! They will share all their secrets with you, to ensure you get the best out of your holiday. Be prepared to be amazed from start to finish. JD, Francois and their team will continue to exceed your expectations in every single way!
We admire the passion you have put into every single part of our holiday! It was the perfect escape from our daily life back home. Thank you all a million and hope to see you again soon!
Sophie, Netherlands
Visit our lodge in the Little Karoo
Starry Starry Night ⭐⭐N
Located on the iconic Route 62, between Montagu and Barrydale and a quick 2½hr drive from Cape Town, Starry Starry Night eco mountain reserve is located in the foothills of the rugged Langeberg Mountains. Conveniently close to surrounding towns yet far away for that middle-of-nowhere feeling so you can properly switch off. The reserve is perfectly positioned as a midway stop-over between Cape Town and the Garden Route.
Our reserve is blessed with two stunningly beautiful rivers, waterfalls, hiking routes, natural rock pools, views that seem to stretch into the future, an abundance of stunning fynbos, organic herb and veggie garden, tranquillity, fresh air, dazzling night skies and the chance to truly disconnect from the busy-ness of everyday life and properly recharge your batteries. Our accommodation is pet-friendly to sociable and well-behaved dogs by prior arrangement (maximum of 2 dogs per cottage).
We recommend a stay of 3-nights or longer to truly get to experience everything our beautiful eco mountain reserve and its surrounds have to offer.
As one of our recent guests observed: “Starry Starry Night is tonic for the soul. Plain and simple”. We cannot argue with that – why not book and come see for yourself?
THE RE-CONNECT RETREAT @ Starry Starry Night
Create a stronger and deeper connection with yourself, with this nature-immersive 5-day retreat, in the gorgeous Langeberg Mountains in Montagu.
Join us in South Africa from 21-25th May 2025 for a 5-day retreat at Starry Starry Night in the Little Karoo, Montagu.
Date: Wednesday 21st May to Sunday 25th May 2025
We are RECRUITING at The Travel Café
Junior Travel Designer Position
(fluent in English and/or French, Cape Town-based job)
Calling all romantic adventurers and passionate travellers. We are growing our merry band of passionate explorers and travel designers and we are looking for a Junior Travel Designer to work from our Cape Town office. Strong language skills in English and/or French are a major bonus. Are you the one we’ve been looking for?
More information about the job and how to apply at www.thetravelcafe.co.za/jobs
The Travel Café Blog
While the Northern Hemisphere is soaking up the summer sun, it’s winter in the Southern Hemisphere—and the Drakensberg mountains have turned into a snow-kissed wonderland. 🤍 Dreaming of South Africa? Start planning now to ensure you travel during the correct season based on your plans. ☀️Visit during summer (November to March) for beach days, safari sunsets, and vineyard strolls under blue skies. ❄️Or plan a winter escape between June and August to witness the rare beauty of snow-covered peaks, cozy lodges, and crisp mountain air and benefit from reduced rates. No matter the season, South Africa offers something unforgettable. ✨ https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/south-africa When will you be joining us? #TravelCafe #SouthAfricaWinter #Drakensberg #SnowyEscape #SouthernHemisphereMagic #SeasonalTravel
Tucked away in the foothills of the Langeberg Mountains, Starry Starry Night is the definition of tranquility. Just off Route 62, it’s the perfect stopover between Cape Town and the Garden Route—or a destination in itself if you’re looking to properly switch off and recharge. 🏞Cascading waterfalls & natural rock pools 🚶🏻Scenic hiking trails through fynbos ✨Endless views & dazzling night skies 🐕Pet-friendly (by prior arrangement) One of our guests put it best: “Starry Starry Night is tonic for the soul.” We couldn’t agree more. Stay a while, breathe deep, and let nature do the rest. 📍Book your stay: https://www.starrystarrynight.co.za or via The Travel Cafe #TravelCafe #StarryStarryNightSA #EcoEscape #Route62 #MountainRetreat
Planning a destination wedding? Don’t let hotel bookings, rental cars, and guest itineraries turn you into a full-time travel agent. You’ve got enough on your plate already! That’s where we come in. As specialists in destination wedding travel across Southern Africa, we’ll make sure your guests are taken care of — from day tours and transport to safaris and sightseeing. ✨ ✅Day tours to help guests explore SA ✅Personalized travel itineraries ✅Shuttles to your venue ✅Hands-on travel support ✅Dream honeymoon planning And the best part? Our services are completely free for the wedding couple. Let’s take the stress out of planning so you can focus on what really matters: celebrating love. 💍💛 📩Chat to us to find out more: Wedding Travel Specialists: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/weddings #TravelCafeSA #DestinationWedding #SaffaWeddings #WeddingTravelSpecialist #BigDayBliss #StressFreeWedding #HoneymoonGoals #SouthernAfricaWeddings
The best way to start your day in Cape Town? Certainly top of our list is a hike to the summit of Lion’s Head. It is spectacular!🦁🏞 So we decided to take our team to the top and have our morning meeting there (just kidding). We were far too busy enjoying the sun rise while ascending 🪜🔝🌅. Expect sweeping views of Table Mountain and the city, as well as the sparkling Atlantic Ocean and the blonde beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay. 🌊 A moderate level of fitness🥾 and good head for heights is required. You can hike up the mountain unguided (always with a buddy, never alone). But a local guide with his unique insight and stories makes for a richer experience. 🌱 #lionsheadmountain #startyourdayright #thetravelcafecapetown #dreamteam #visitcapetown #southafrica
Welcome to one of Africa’s last true wildernesses – a maze of lush islands, glistening water channels, and untouched wild beauty. Whether you're gliding through the Delta in a mokoro canoe, watching elephants from your luxury tent, or flying high above it all in a scenic chopper ride — every moment here feels magical. ✨Best time to visit? Winter (June–Sept) for prime wildlife viewing, boating, and full channels. 💰 Want more value? Consider spring or autumn for great sightings at lower rates. 🕊Bird lover or budget traveller? Summer brings baby animals, brilliant birdlife, and big savings. Let us help you design an unforgettable Delta adventure – no matter the season. 📩 Let's start planning: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/the-okavango-delta #TravelCafeSA #OkavangoDelta #BotswanaSafari #LuxurySafari #MokoroAdventure #SouthernAfricaTravel #WildAfrica #BucketListTravel #SafariDreaming
Southern & Eastern Africa offers something for every kind of traveler—from the vast deserts of Namibia to the wildlife-rich plains of Kenya, the iconic Victoria Falls to the unspoiled beaches of Mozambique. Whether you're seeking adventure, relaxation, or a once-in-a-lifetime safari, there's a perfect place waiting for you. Not sure where to start? Let Travel Cafe craft your ideal itinerary, tailored to your travel style. 🌿🌊🐘 https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/your-dream-trip #TravelAfrica #BucketListAdventures #SafariDreams #TravelCafe
📍17 October 2024 (The Travel Cafe educational adventure of Namibia) A place that truly takes your breath away – and not just because of the dunes. 🏜 Soaring silently over the world’s oldest desert in a hot air balloon, with nothing but the wind guiding us and rust-red sand dunes stretching to the horizon… it's one of those moments that just stays with you. 🎈☀️ We explored the eerie, otherworldly Dead Vlei, where time stands still and thousand-year-old trees remain frozen in place. Hiked towering dunes like Big Daddy, and felt completely humbled by the scale and silence of this place. Sossusvlei isn’t just a destination. It’s a feeling. Let's start planning your trip: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/namibia #Namibia #Sossusvlei #NamibDesert #TravelThrowback #HotAirBalloon #DeadVlei #AfricaTravel #DesertDreaming #TravelCafeMoments
Standing at the edge of the world’s second largest canyon as the sun dips below the horizon is a truly humbling experience. Vast, silent, and impossibly beautiful, this natural wonder is reason enough to add southern Namibia to your itinerary. From dassies on the rocks to oryx antelope at dusk, and an 8km birthday hike for François—this stop was packed with magic.✨ 👉🏻Curious to hear the full story and follow the rest of our journey? Head to our blog to read more about our time in Fish River Canyon (and beyond) with The Travel Cafe Team: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/fish-river-canyon-in-namibia #FishRiverCanyon #NamibiaDiaries #TravelBlog #NamibiaAdventures #TailorMadeTravel #TheTravelCafe
From the burnt-orange dunes of Sossusvlei to the wild Skeleton Coast, vibrant tribal culture of the Kaokoveld and epic wildlife in Etosha, Namibia is unlike anywhere else on earth. 🌎 Whether you're dreaming of staying in epic luxury lodges, a remote budget-friendly adventure with a 4x4 and roof-top tent, or a mix of both—we design every itinerary around your travel style, timing, needs, and budget. 💡Want more inspiration? Head to our website to explore some of our favourite Namibia itineraries which can be completely customised to your style, requirements and budget: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/itineraries-in-namibia #NamibiaTravel #TailorMadeTrips #AfricaUnfiltered #TravelCafeAdventures #NamibiaDreaming #DesertMeetsWildlife #NamibiaItinerary
Welcome to one of Africa’s most iconic safari destinations—the legendary Kruger National Park and its surrounding private reserves.🇿🇦 Whether you're chasing Big 5 sightings or looking for a slower safari under open skies, the Kruger Region has something unforgettable in store. 🌟Why Visit? ✔️The Big 5 & much more – Lion, leopard, rhino, elephant & buffalo, plus cheetahs, wild dogs, pangolins, giraffes, gorgeous birds, reptiles, insects and much more ✔️Two unique safari styles – Self-drive Kruger Park or luxury lodges in the exclusive Greater Kruger private reserves ✔️ Intimate wildlife encounters – Off-road game drives and guided bush walks in Sabi Sands or Timbavati ✔️Incredible landscapes – From riverbeds and baobab forests to wide-open savannahs ✔️Legendary sunsets – Best enjoyed with a sundowner in hand and the sounds of the bush around you 📍Best time to visit? Anytime, just don’t miss it. May – October is the dry season when game-viewing is a little bit easier because of less vegetation. However, ever season has its pro’s and con’s and you always see loads - especially when you staying in a private game reserve. 📙Explore Kruger with us: https://www.thetravelcafe.co.za/kruger #TravelCafeAdventures #KrugerNationalPark #Big5Safari #LuxurySafari #SouthAfricaTravel #SafariDreaming #AfricaAwaits
