Ulster URC Tour.
South Africa, March 2024

Depart Dublin with the superb Turkish Airlines. 

Land in Dubai at 0830.

Transfer and depart Dubai at 0955. Land in Johannesburg at 1615. 

Executive coach transfer (40 minutes) to the 5* Sheraton Pretoria Hotel and check in for three nights. We have arranged a complimentary drinks reception this evening, hosted by Donal Lenihan and Alan Quinlan, for everyone on tour to relax and to get to know each other.

Cultural Village tour with a dance show and lunch. Located in the heart of the African bushveld amidst the rocky hills within the Cradle of Humankind, a World Heritage Site. Discover the fascinating cultures and traditions of the people of Africa, visiting five traditional homesteads inhabited by Zulu, Xhosa, Pedi, Basotho and Ndebele tribes who live according to tribal folklore and traditions of their ancestors.

Rest of the day at leisure. 

Match Day! Vodacom Bulls v Munster Rugby at Loftus Versfeld Stadium. Kick Off 1705. 

Morning at leisure.

1500: Meet in hotel bar and then coach transfer (5 minutes) to the stadium. 

Enjoy stadium hospitality including official match tickets, complimentary food and drinks both pre and post match. 

Check out and transfer to Kruger Park. This overland journey to Kruger National Park holds as much beauty and excitement as the world-famous safari destination itself. Heading eastwards into Mpumalanga (the ‘Land of the Rising Sun’) witness undulating expanses and stunning scenery.

This is a five hour drive plus a lunch stop and two coffee breaks on the way.

Check into the 4* Kruger Gate Hotel for two nights on a breakfast and dinner basis. 

You have the option (at no additional cost) to enjoy an evening safari either today or tomorrow. 

After sunset, the boom of a big brass gong blending with the voice of a traditional African welcome will call you to a sumptuous fireside feast. Under a canopy of breath-taking stars, a hot and cold three-course buffet dinner, including local and international cuisine, is laid out for your pleasure.

Located right at the Paul Kruger Gate and on the banks of the iconic Sabie River, this lodge-style hotel is famed for its soaring wooden walkways and treetop ambiance. It provides classic Big 5 safaris in the Kruger National Park with all the comforts of an upmarket 4-star hotel experience.

Morning Game Drive 0545 – 1200. 

You will wake before dawn, enjoy complimentary coffee, tea and traditional rusks before setting off, full of anticipation, with your professional guide on an open-air safari vehicle. Within minutes, you enter the Kruger Gate and are immersed in pristine wilderness where large herds and powerful predators roam freely. As the sun rises, pink and gold, over the untamed landscape of thorn trees and waving grass, you never know what you might see. There’s always a chance of Africa’s iconic Big 5 – Lion, Elephant, Leopard, Buffalo and Rhino, and so much more.

Tip: You will be given blankets but do bring warm clothing because early morning can be very cold!

On your return we have included a lovely al fresco buffet lunch.

Rest of the day at leisure. We recommend relaxing by the stylish Pool Bar with its extensive game-viewing deck along the Sabie riverbank. This boasts uninterrupted views into the Kruger National Park.  This scenic quiet zone, includes a stunning infinity pool, providing a peaceful respite after your safari travels. Here, you can be still, take pleasure in a cocktail or a glass of fine South African wine while the game wanders down to the Sabie River right in front of you. As you relax, cool off in the pool or enjoy an al fresco lunch. 

Look out for intimate sightings of Elephants, Buffalo, Hippo and numerous species of antelope who come to the river to drink and graze on the grassy banks. It’s a favourite spot for both watching the sunrise alone in the cool mornings and coming together for refreshing sundowners after a hot day on safari.

Late check out and transfer (one hour) to the 4*  Sabi River Sun Resort, Hazyview. Check in for 2 nights (breakfast and dinner included).

The resort’s 18-hole golf course, five swimming pools, resident hippos, tennis courts, rejuvenating spa and delicious dining ensure that you will have a great couple of days R&R!

Why not tee-off (additional cost) this afternoon on the 71-par 18-hole course that is famous for its resident hippos and the Mpumalanga Lowveld surrounding it!

Rest of the day at leisure. 

Today we have included a day trip on the stunning Panorama Route OR a round of golf. 

On the Panorama Route you will travel along the Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world, which is home to a number of sites of incredible natural beauty. These include the following which you will witness: God’s Window, the Three Rondavels and the Bourke’s Luck Potholes.

A view of Gods Window!

Evening at leisure. 

Check out and transfer (one hour) to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport from where you fly (one hour) to Johannesburg.

Transfer to the 5* Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch and check in for three nights B&B.

Melrose Arch is Johannesburg’s premier precinct with a myriad trendy cafés, high-street boutiques, al fresco restaurants and lively entertainment areas located just moments from the hotel doorstep.

Diverse in culture, colour and heritage, Johannesburg’s contrasts will capture your heart and awaken your soul. Spend a half day exploring Johannesburg, Soweto and surrounds. Visit the internationally acclaimed Apartheid Museum, illustrating the rise and fall of the Apartheid regime in South Africa. Discover the vibrant township of Soweto, home to Mandela House and many more historically significant sites and figures of the struggle.

Evening at leisure. 

Match Day! Emirates Lions v Munster Rugby at Emirates Airline Park. Kick Off 1700. 

Morning at leisure. 

1430: Meet in hotel bar and then coach transfer (20 minutes) to the stadium.

Enjoy stadium hospitality including official match tickets, complimentary food and drinks both pre and post match.

Return to hotel for end of tour party!

You will be glad to know that we have arranged a late check out today! 

At 1500 transfer (45 mins) to OR Tambo International Johannesburg Airport. 

Emirates flight departs Johannesburg at 1910. 

Land in Dubai at 0525.

Transfer and depart Dubai at 0715. Land in Dublin at 1210. 

It’s been a great tour and we hope to see you on another RTI tour soon!