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NYE South Africa Experience: Johannesburg, Zimbabwe & Cape Town

Introduction
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Johannesburg • Zimbabwe • Cape Town / December 28, 2026 – January 9, 2027

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Trip Overview

Celebrate the New Year across three iconic Southern African destinations. This carefully curated journey blends history, culture, wildlife, nightlife, and natural beauty. From Johannesburg’s powerful past and vibrant present, to the awe-inspiring Victoria Falls and the coastal elegance of Cape Town, this is an unforgettable start to the year with TheTravelJunkees.

Journey Highlights

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At a glance

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Trip Overview

Day 1 - Arrival in Johannesburg and Relaxation

28-Dec-2026
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Arrive in Johannesburg and Settle In

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Arrival in Johannesburg

Arrive in Johannesburg where private transportation will take you to our luxury hotel in Melrose Arch. Take the remainder of the day to relax, unpack, enjoy the neighborhood, or recover from international travel.
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Marriott Melrose Arch

Stay at Marriott Melrose Arch, a luxury hotel in Johannesburg's Melrose Arch district.

Day 2 - Ukutula Lion Park Experience

29-Dec-2026
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Unforgettable Day at Ukutula Lion Park

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Ukutula Lion Park Experience

Experience an unforgettable day at Ukutula Lion Park, a renowned wildlife conservation center. Get up close with Africa’s iconic lions while learning about preservation efforts and the importance of wildlife conservation. Walk with the lions.

Day 3 - Ultimate Johannesburg Tour

30-Dec-2026
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Explore Johannesburg’s History and Culture

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Ultimate Johannesburg Tour

Dive deep into South Africa’s complex and inspiring history on a guided Ultimate Johannesburg Tour. Highlights include a visit to the Apartheid Museum, offering powerful insight into the country’s past, a guided exploration of Soweto, and a stop at Nelson Mandela’s former home. This immersive experience provides context, culture, and connection. Lunch is included.
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Lunch Included

Lunch is included as part of the Ultimate Johannesburg Tour.

Day 4 - Lesedi Cultural Village & NYE Celebration

31-Dec-2026
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Cultural Village Experience and New Year’s Eve Party

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Lesedi Cultural Village Experience

Begin the day with a half-day cultural experience at Lesedi Cultural Village, featuring traditional music, dance, and storytelling from South Africa’s diverse tribes.
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New Year’s Eve Celebration at Rockets or Opera Lounge

In the evening, dress to impress as we ring in the New Year at one of Johannesburg’s premier nightlife venues: Rockets or Opera Lounge.
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Day 5 - Free Day in Johannesburg

01-Jan-2027
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Relax and Explore Johannesburg at Leisure

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Free Day in Johannesburg

Enjoy a relaxed free day to recover from New Year’s Eve. Explore Melrose Arch, shop, brunch, or participate in optional activities arranged by TheTravelJunkees.

Day 6 - Johannesburg to Zimbabwe

02-Jan-2027
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Fly from Johannesburg to Zimbabwe and Relax at Nkosi Lodge

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Depart Johannesburg and fly to Zimbabwe.
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Nkosi Lodge

Upon arrival, transfer to Nkosi Lodge near Victoria Falls. Spend the evening unwinding and enjoying the peaceful surroundings.

Day 7 - Chobe Safari – Botswana

03-Jan-2027
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Full-Day Safari Adventure in Chobe National Park

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Chobe Safari – Botswana

Embark on a full-day safari adventure into Chobe National Park in Botswana, famous for its massive elephant population and diverse wildlife. Expect an unforgettable day of game drives and river safaris.

Day 8 - Victoria Falls & Zambia Cultural Dinner

04-Jan-2027
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Victoria Falls Exploration and Zambian Cultural Dinner

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Free Day in Zimbabwe

Enjoy a free day in Zimbabwe with recommended optional experiences such as a guided tour of Victoria Falls or a helicopter flight over the falls.
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Victoria Falls Guided Tour (Optional)

Optional guided tour of Victoria Falls, one of the world's most spectacular natural wonders.
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Helicopter Flight Over Victoria Falls (Optional)

Optional helicopter flight over Victoria Falls, offering breathtaking aerial views of the falls and surrounding landscape.
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Boma Zambian Village Cultural Dinner

In the evening, cross into Zambia for a cultural dining experience at Boma Zambian Village, complete with traditional food, music, and dance.
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Day 9 - Zimbabwe to Cape Town

05-Jan-2027
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Fly to Cape Town and Group Dinner at GOLD

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Fly to Cape Town and check into our waterfront hotel.
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AC Marriott Waterfront Hotel

Check into our waterfront hotel in Cape Town.
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GOLD Restaurant Group Dinner

In the evening, enjoy a group dinner at the iconic GOLD Restaurant, known for its African-inspired cuisine and live performances.
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Day 10 - Robben Island & Cape Peninsula Tour

06-Jan-2027
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Robben Island Visit and Cape Peninsula Drive

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Robben Island Visit

Visit Robben Island, where Nelson Mandela was imprisoned.
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Cape Peninsula Scenic Drive

Enjoy a scenic Cape Peninsula drive showcasing dramatic coastlines, historic landmarks, and breathtaking views.

Day 11 - Winelands Tour

07-Jan-2027
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Explore South Africa's Renowned Winelands

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Winelands Tour

Spend the day exploring South Africa’s world-renowned Winelands. Enjoy tastings, picturesque vineyards, and charming towns such as Stellenbosch and Franschhoek.

Day 12 - Free Day in Cape Town

08-Jan-2027
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Leisure Day and Optional Cape Town Activities

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Free Day in Cape Town

Enjoy your final full day at leisure. Optional activities include Table Mountain, V&A Waterfront shopping, beach time, or additional curated excursions.

Day 13 - Departure from Cape Town

09-Jan-2027
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Depart Cape Town and End of Journey

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Departure from Cape Town

Depart Cape Town as the NYE South Africa Experience with TheTravelJunkees comes to an end, leaving with lifelong memories and new connections.
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1. Marriott Melrose Arch

42 The High St, Melrose Arch, Johannesburg, 2076, South Africa

2. Ukutula Lion Park

Ukutula Lodge & Game Reserve, Brits, North West, South Africa

3. Apartheid Museum

Northern Parkway & Gold Reef Rd, Ormonde, Johannesburg, 2001, South Africa

4. Soweto (Mandela House)

8115 Vilakazi St, Orlando West, Soweto, 1804, South Africa

5. Lesedi Cultural Village

R512 Lanseria Road, Broederstroom, 0240, South Africa

6. Nkosi Lodge (Victoria Falls)

278 Parkway Drive, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

7. Chobe National Park

Chobe National Park, Kasane, Botswana

8. Victoria Falls

Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe

9. Boma Zambian Village

Livingstone, Zambia

10. AC Marriott Waterfront Hotel

Dockrail Rd, Foreshore, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

11. GOLD Restaurant

15 Bennett St, Green Point, Cape Town, 8005, South Africa

12. Robben Island

Robben Island, Cape Town, 7400, South Africa

13. Cape Peninsula

Cape Peninsula, Cape Town, South Africa

14. Stellenbosch (Winelands)

Stellenbosch, 7600, South Africa

15. Franschhoek (Winelands)

Franschhoek, 7690, South Africa

16. Table Mountain

Table Mountain, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

17. V&A Waterfront

19 Dock Rd, Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, Cape Town, 8001, South Africa

Accommodations

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Marriott Melrose Arch Johannesburg

Check inMonday, Dec 28, 2026
Check outSaturday, Jan 2, 2027

Johannesburg Marriott Hotel Melrose Arch sits in the vibrant Melrose Arch precinct of Johannesburg, surrounded by trendy cafés, boutiques, and open-air dining. This upscale Marriott property offers modern, stylish rooms and suites, a fitness centre, outdoor pool, and dining options like Keystone Bistro and Archer Bar & Eatery, making it ideal for both business and leisure travellers. With excellent connectivity to Sandton, Rosebank, and O.R. Tambo International Airport, it blends cosmopolitan convenience with comfortable, contemporary hospitality.

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Nkosi Lodge Zimbabwe

04 Acacia Crescent, Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Check inSaturday, Jan 2, 20271200
Check outTuesday, Jan 5, 20271000

Nkosi Guest Lodge in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe, is a relaxed, garden-surrounded lodge featuring spacious superior rooms, many with private balconies, and thoughtful amenities such as en-suite bathrooms and included full English breakfasts. Set in a peaceful residential area just minutes from the falls, it offers a welcoming base for exploring local attractions, with an outdoor pool, restaurant and bar area, and friendly service that makes guests feel at home. The lodge’s lush grounds and cosy social spaces provide a serene contrast to the adventure activities nearby.

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AC Marriott Waterfront Hotel Capetown

Dockrail Road, Foreshore,
Check inTuesday, Jan 5, 20271200
Check outFriday, Jan 9, 20261000

AC Hotel Cape Town Waterfront overlooks the Foreshore and is just steps from the iconic Victoria & Alfred Waterfront in Cape Town. This stylish Marriott property features sleek, efficient rooms with views of Table Mountain or Signal Hill, a well-appointed fitness centre, outdoor pool, and on-site dining with Spanish-inspired touches at AC Kitchen & Lounge. Its prime location makes it an excellent choice for sightseeing, dining, shopping, and easy access to Cape Town’s top attractions, blending modern comfort with the energy of one of South Africa’s most dynamic cities.

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Pricing Breakdown Inclusions/exclusions

🌟 PRICING BREAKDOWN 🌟
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Adventure Awaits – Let’s Crunch the Numbers!

NYE South Africa 2026 – Johannesburg • Safari • Victoria Falls • Cape Town 🇿🇦🎉

TOTAL TRIP PRICE (per person):

💵 $3,820 – Double Occupancy (December 2026)
💵 $4,820 – Single Occupancy (December 2026)

Includes hotel accommodations, safari, curated excursions, ground transportation, and signature cultural experiences.


💰 FLEXIBLE PAYMENT PLAN

NYE South Africa 2026 Option

Double Occupancy

Total Trip Price (per person):
💵 $3,820

Secure Your Spot

🔒 $300 deposit per person

  • Non-refundable

  • Applied toward total

Remaining Balance

$3,820 – $300 = $3,520 per person

Payment Schedule

  • Spread evenly across 10 easy monthly payments

  • Final payment due: November 1, 2026

Monthly Payment

$352 per month (per person)
(10 payments total)


Single Occupancy

Total Trip Price (per person):
💵 $4,820

Secure Your Spot

🔒 $300 deposit per person

  • Non-refundable

  • Applied toward total

Remaining Balance

$4,820 – $300 = $4,520 per person

Payment Schedule

  • Spread evenly across 10 easy monthly payments

  • Final payment due: November 1, 2026

Monthly Payment

$452 per month (per person)
(10 payments total)


NOTES

  • Final numbers may vary slightly due to rounding or supplier adjustments

  • All totals will be confirmed prior to processing

  • Early booking secures best hotel availability, safari space, and NYE events


🌟 WHAT’S INCLUDED

✅ All hotel stays (Johannesburg, Safari Lodge, Victoria Falls, Cape Town)
✅ Hotel & airport ground transfers
✅ Guided Safari experience
GOLD Restaurant signature African dinner
✅ All curated excursions & experiences
✅ Dinner excursion across the border into Zambia for an authentic village cultural experience
✅ NYE-focused programming & celebrations
✅ Curated experiences & concierge planning
✅ 24/7 support from TheTravelJunkees Team


🚫 WHAT’S NOT INCLUDED

✈️ International airfare
💸 Tips & gratuities
🛡️ Travel insurance
🍷 Personal expenses (shopping, spa treatments, cocktails, optional activities)

Travel Tips

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Travel Tips

Helpful Tips for Traveling in South Africa 🇿🇦 & Zimbabwe 🇿🇼

Dress comfortably and appropriately. Casual wear is fine for most days, but pack smart-casual outfits for upscale restaurants, wineries, and evening outings. When visiting villages, cultural sites, or religious locations, dress modestly out of respect.

Carry some local currency—South African Rand (ZAR) and U.S. dollars (USD) for Zimbabwe. Credit cards are widely accepted in cities and hotels, but cash is helpful for markets, tips, and small vendors.

Stay hydrated, especially during safaris, excursions, and walking tours. The African sun can be strong, even in cooler months, so always keep water with you.

Listen closely to your guides and drivers. Local guides are knowledgeable and provide important safety tips, cultural insight, and wildlife etiquette—especially on safari and near Victoria Falls.

Be security-conscious in busy areas. Use hotel safes for valuables, avoid flashing expensive items, and keep phones and bags secure in crowded locations.

Pack sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat. Even in December, sun exposure can be intense—especially in Cape Town, on safari, and near Victoria Falls.

Plan early mornings for activities like safaris and sightseeing. Wildlife is most active early in the day, and popular attractions are best enjoyed before peak crowds and heat.

Bring a universal power adapter and check voltage compatibility. Power outages (load shedding) can occur in South Africa, so a small power bank is also highly recommended.

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Additional Tips

South Africa: Currency & Money Matters 🇿🇦

South Africa uses the South African Rand (ZAR) as its official currency. The rand is widely accepted throughout the country, and South Africa has a modern banking system, making transactions relatively easy for international travelers.


Currency Basics

Symbol: R
Abbreviation: ZAR
Typical Exchange Rate:
1 USD ≈ R18–R20
(Rates fluctuate—always check before traveling)


Practical Money Tips for Travelers

Currency Exchange

  • Exchange USD at banks, authorized exchange bureaus, or airport counters.

  • Banks and reputable exchange offices usually offer the best rates.

  • Airport exchanges are convenient but may charge higher fees.

  • Avoid exchanging money with street vendors.


ATMs

  • Widely available in Johannesburg, Cape Town, and other major cities.

  • Visa and Mastercard are broadly accepted; Amex is accepted at select locations.

  • Notify your bank of international travel to avoid card blocks.

  • Some ATMs may charge withdrawal or foreign transaction fees—check with your bank beforehand.


Cash vs. Cards

  • Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at hotels, restaurants, malls, and attractions.

  • Cash is useful for markets, small shops, tips, and rural areas—carry small denominations.

  • Contactless payments (Apple Pay, Google Pay) are common in urban areas and upscale venues.


Tipping Etiquette

  • Tipping is customary and expected in South Africa.

  • Restaurants: 10–15% for good service.

  • Tour guides & drivers: Tips are appreciated and customary.

  • Hotel porters: R10–R20 per bag.

  • Taxi/rideshare drivers: Round up or tip 10%.


Budgeting

South Africa offers excellent value, ranging from budget-friendly to luxury experiences:

  • Coffee: R25–R40

  • Casual meal: R120–R200

  • Nice dinner for two: R600–R1,200

  • Bottled water: R15–R25

  • Uber/ride-share (short city ride): R80–R150


Safety & Convenience

  • Keep cash and valuables secure, especially in busy areas.

  • Use ATMs inside banks or malls when possible.

  • Carry a mix of cash and cards for flexibility.

  • Power outages (load shedding) can affect card machines—having some cash on hand is helpful.

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We're Here To Help

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Get in Touch with Us

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Contact Us

Text, Phone or WhatsApp: +1 312 436 2008

Email: info@thetraveljunkees.com

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Travel Certifications

We're here to help you plan the perfect adventure! For any inquiries or assistance, feel free to reach out:

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About Us

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About Us

Our Story

TheTravelJunkees started with a simple idea: to share the joy of discovery and the thrill of new experiences with like-minded adventurers. Over the years, we've grown into a vibrant community known for our daring exploits and unique travel stories. One of our most memorable moments was our appearance on Jimmy Kimmel, where a monkey photo opp adventure took an unexpected turn, putting us in the spotlight and showcasing our commitment to embracing the unexpected.

Curating Unforgettable Journeys

At TheTravelJunkees, we believe that travel is more than just visiting new places—it's about creating lasting memories and forming bonds with fellow travelers. Our dedicated team curates exceptional trips for our main group, ensuring each journey is filled with excitement, cultural immersion, and opportunities for personal growth. Whether it's hiking through lush jungles, exploring ancient ruins, or enjoying local cuisines, we strive to offer something for everyone.