DAY TRIPS AND PRE- AND POST-CONFERENCE TOURS

Attending the AORTIC 2007 conference offers international delegates an excellent opportunity to explore the treasures that make Southern Africa one of the most desirable tourism destinations in the world.

Below are descriptions of some of the most popular destinations within Southern Africa and some sample itineraries that are available.

A full range of tours will soon be available for pre-booking. A tourism desk will be also be available at the conference, for information and bookings.

» Day Trips

» Pre- and Post-Conference Tours

DAY TRIPS

Robben Island (4 hours)

A National Monument, Robben Island is one of the most signifi cant historical sites in South Africa. First used by the Dutch East India Company (VOC) as a refreshment station, it later became an asylum, leper colony and, most notoriously a prison, where, amongst others, Nelson Mandela was incarcerated for more than 20 years.

The notorious Robben Island

Tin shanty houses in the Townships

Autumn vines in the Winelands

Cape Point, the southwestern tip of Africa

Historical and Cultural Tours (Half Day)

Cape Town (and South Africa) has an extremely rich history that extends long before the first European settlers. Over the last 400 years people from all part of the world have settled in the Cape resulting in a fascinating history and a very interesting mix of cultures.

Township Tours (Half or Full day)

A trip into the township and experiencing how large portions of South Africans live is a surprisingly positive experience. You will fi nd amazing spirit, optimism and pride amongst the countries poorest which is truly humbling.

Wineland Tours (Half or Full Day)

The Cape Winelands, set in the midst of scenic mountains and spectacular valleys provide the guest with a wide variety of wine estates to visit. Enjoy the scenery and savour the wines while you learn about the history of the area and processes involved in producing world-class wines.

City Tour (Half Day)

Be introduced to the Cape Town - experience its beauty and be giving an overview of the history, culture, architecture and its colourful people. The tour will include a trip up the city’s most desirable attraction, the Table Mountain Cableway.

Cape Point / Penguins (Half or Full Day)

Enjoy the scenic drive to/ from Cape Point, the most south-western tip of Africa and the point where the two oceans meet, visiting the penguin colony as well as numerous other places of interest along the way. The Nature Reserve in which Cape Point has been relatively untouched by man and is in pristine condition.

Botanical Tours (Half Day)

The positioning of the southern tip of Africa and the resulting climate create a very unique floral kingdom that is found nowhere else in the world. Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens provides an ideal opportunity to learn about the most unique and smallest fl oral kingdom and experience the huge diversity of plants it has to offer.

Shopping Trips (Half Day)

The favourable international exchange rate makes South Africa a shopper’s paradise for the overseas visitor. Cape Town offers a great variety of domestic and imported goods including gold (South Africa’s chief export), diamonds (South Africa is world famous for these sparkling gems), jewellery, leather goods, African curios, art, antiques, ceramics and fashion clothing.

 

ACTIVITIES

 

Golf

Cape Town and surrounds have over 30 golf courses to choose from, many of them beautifully situated overlooking the sea, in amongst the vineyards or positioned up against dramatic mountains.

Abseil off Table Mountain

Spectacular golf courses

Horse riding on Noordhoek Beach

Coastal sea kayaking

Health Spa treatments

Mountain Biking

This is real mountain biking with fun, off-road riding on the slopes of the Table Mountain and Devils Peak, 90% downhill. Take in the beautiful surroundings on route.

Hiking

Table Mountain and the mountain range that runs down the length of the Peninsula provide many opportunities for hikes. Guided walks will take you to the Cableway Station where you can enjoy the views and get refreshments before descending the mountain by Cable car.

Water sports

(Water skiing, Kite Surfing, Surfing, Windsurfing, sea kayaking, etc) – Cape Town is a mecca for watersport fanatics with the majority of sports available and excellent conditions for both beginners and the experienced.

Horse Riding

The natural beauty and open space that is found on the outskirts of Cape Town provides the horse riding enthusiasts many riding opportunities. You are able to ride on wide-open beaches, in the mountain or amongst the vineyards in the Winelands.

Skydiving

Tandem sky dives offer the adrenalin junkie their outlet. The views are spectacular for those that are able to notice.

Paragliding

Paragliding provides one with an exhilarating experience with some of the best views to be had of Cape Town. This activity is dependent on weather.

Abseiling

Step off 1000 metres – 112m abseil with spectacular views and an unforgettable adrenalin rush.

Health Spa

Relax and be pampered in one of Cape Town’s excellent world-class Health Spas.

Deep Sea Fishing

The coast off Cape Town has some of the best game fishing to be found as well as many fresh water fly-fishing opportunities. Both types of fishing can be combined with numerous other activities and interests.

Sailing

Table Bay offers fantastic sailing opportunities for both experienced and novice sailors together with awesome views of the city against the backdrop of Table Mountain.

Scuba Diving

An abundance of excellent diving sites for the novice as well as the veteran, for winter as well as summer diving, for snorkelling as well as scuba, abound along the coastline of the Southern Peninsula.

Pre- and Post-Conference Tours

Extend your stay and discover just why South Africa is one of the fastest growing tourist destinations worldwide.

Delegates will be offered a range of travel itineraries that vary from an extended stay in Cape Town to trips to other popular destinations around South Africa and Southern Africa.

Winelands

The Winelands are accessible from Cape Town for day visits however those who might have experienced Cape Town before and have seen its sites might appreciate a few relaxing days in the beautiful Winelands enjoying the world-class wines and excellent foods.

Garden Route

The Garden Route is a magnificent stretch of South Africa’s southern coastline, encompassing mountains, rivers, lagoons, lakes, long beaches, and the indigenous forests of the Tsitsikamma National Park. Tourists are drawn to the Garden Route for its natural beauty, stunning beaches, world-class golf courses and the peace and tranquility of the area. The area offers excellent cycling and walking opportunities.
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Tours and Activities

Game Viewing

South Africa offers some of the best game viewing on the African continent and if you are not planning to return to Africa it is advisable that you take advantage of this opportunity of seeing lions, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, cheetahs and all the other wonderful wildlife in their natural environment. There is a full range of travel options available from fly-in luxury safaris to self-drive or budget tours through the national parks.
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Sun City

Sun City is Africa’s premier resort destination and provides an excellent resort experience. The complex comprises four hotels; many large entertainment areas; two of the country’s top golf courses; an inland beach with a wave pool; a man-made lake; and it borders on a National Park in which visitors are able to view African wildlife in their natural surroundings.
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Sample Itinerary

Victoria Falls

The majestic Victoria Falls is one of the world’s natural wonders and is a natural playground. Sunset cruises, white river rafting, canoe trip and fishing on the Zambezi, viewing the Falls from a helicopter or micro light and game viewing in close proximity. A trip to Victoria Falls will leave the visitor with awesome memories.
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Sample Itinerary

Special Interests

The tour operator will be able to put together personalised tours taking into consideration guests' specific interests. These interests can be incorporated into general sightseeing or visits to specific destinations.

Special interests may include golf, historical & cultural, photography, adventure, birding, botanical, fishing, wine & gourmet, horse-riding, and more.

 

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