Overview
BOOKED Trips Johannesburg & Cape Town, South Africa Experience
- Days: 11
- Group Size: 12
- Nights: 10
- Price: $5,900
Join us on an unforgettable 11-day, 10-night adventure in Johannesburg and Cape Town inspired by Trevor Noah’s book “Born A Crime.” Go beyond the typical tourist path, focusing on the rich history, culture, and ingenuity of Black South Africans.
Learn about the complexities of South Africa’s past as we walk the streets of Soweto alongside local guides, experiencing firsthand the energy and spirit of this iconic township that shaped Trevor Noah’s childhood. Explore Vilakazi Street, once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. Learn about the artists, innovative chefs, and inspiring local entrepreneurs who are shaping the city’s future.
Explore Cape Town’s stunning natural beauty, from Cape Peninsula where penguins roam on Boulder’s beach to the vibrant V&A Waterfront where you can catch waterside views of Table Mountain. Sip wine at a Black-owned wineries, meet locals at a South African braai and game night, and discover the rich culture of Cape Town through visits to local Black-owned businesses.
Trip Highlights
- Flexible payment options. Secure your spot with a $1,000 deposit. Monthly payment plans available.
- Single occupancy rooms at 4-star hotels. No sharing rooms required!
- Pilanesberg National Park safari: Encounter the Big 5 on a two-game drive safari in an open top 4×4 vehicle in Pilanesberg National Park, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
- Delicious meals including a welcome dinner and book discussion, a pan-African storytelling dinner, and a 14-course spice experience.
- Cape Peninsula’s Wonders: Witness the breathtaking beauty of Cape Peninsula. From the adorable penguins at Boulder’s Beach to the panoramic views of Cape Point, prepare to be captivated by nature’s grandeur.
- Wine & Community: Raise a glass at THREE award-winning Black-owned wineries and enjoy a delicious lunch in the winelands curated by a sommelier.
- South African Braai: Savor a traditional South African barbecue while enjoying live music.
Tentative Itinerary
Day 1: Arrivals & Welcome Dinner
“Relationships are built in the silences. You spend time with people, you observe them and interact with them, and you come to know them—and that is what apartheid stole from us: time.” - Born A Crime
Welcome to Johannesburg, South Africa – or Jozi, as the locals call it. Your adventure begins the moment you touch down at Johannesburg International Airport (“JNB” airport code). We've got you covered with included airport transportation, taking you directly to our comfortable 4-star hotel.
After settling in and refreshing yourself we'll enjoy our opening dinner and book discussion.
This intimate gathering is also a chance to delve into our featured book, "Born a Crime" by Trevor Noah. Prepare for laughter and thought-provoking discussions as we explore Noah's unforgettable story, set against the backdrop of South Africa's rich history.
Dinner
Day 2: Literature and Culture Crawl
“After apartheid fell, my father moved from Hillbrow to Yeoville, a formerly quiet, residential neighborhood that had transformed into this vibrant melting pot of black and white and every other hue. Immigrants were pouring in from Nigeria and Ghana and all over the continent, bringing different food and exciting music.” - Born A Crime
After breakfast at the hotel we’ll immerse ourselves in the city's literary and creative scenes.
We'll explore how books travel through the underground economy and the history of bookselling in Johannesburg, from the first black-run library to the days of censorship and book burning, as well as how new current consumers find books in novel ways.
We'll enjoy lunch and explore a creative hub that includes an interactive audio-visual archive of black resistance, a shop that takes images of from the Bailey's African History Archive and re-interprets them on products, and a secondhand bookstore with literature from and about the continent of Africa.
This evening we’ll eat at a dinner club in Yeoville that will take us on a culinary tour of interpretative pan-African cuisine. Powerful flavors mesh with passionate storytelling inside this dining room where strangers become friends.
Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner
Day 3: Soweto Stories
“There is something magical about Soweto. Yes, it was a prison designed by our oppressors, but it also gave us a sense of self-determination and control. Soweto was ours. It had an aspirational quality that you don’t find elsewhere. In America the dream is to make it out of the ghetto. In Soweto, because there was no leaving the ghetto, the dream was to transform the ghetto.” - Born A Crime
Today we'll visit Soweto, a local township where Trevor Noah spent a lot of time during his childhood. We'll connect with the community, understand its rich history, and witness the enduring spirit of its communities.
We’ll start our day at Little Rose Center, a shelter and youth center in Soweto as we learn about their work and local entrepreneurial efforts that provide local youth with opportunities to thrive.
Savor a delicious lunch at a vibrant hub known for its warm hospitality. This is your chance to connect with fellow travelers and locals, immersing yourself in the township's unique atmosphere.
The afternoon is dedicated to exploring Soweto's landmarks. Pay your respects at the Hector Pieterson Museum, a poignant reminder of the 1976 Soweto Uprising. Walk along Vilakazi Street, once home to Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. This iconic street is a symbol of hope and the ongoing fight for equality. Step inside the former home of Nelson Mandela and learn about his remarkable journey from Soweto resident to global icon.
Our final stop is the Apartheid Museum, a powerful and moving experience that sheds light on South Africa's dark past. Gain a deeper understanding of the struggle for freedom that continues to shape Soweto and the nation.
The evening is yours to rest or explore the city with our included city guide that highlights the best places to eat, play, and enjoy the city.
Breakfast and Lunch
Day 4: Spot The Big 5: Pilanesberg Safari Adventure!
“Andrew was the only one who wasn’t afraid. He was the lion tamer, only he’d been raised by the lion—he couldn’t love the beast any less despite knowing what it was capable of.” - Born A Crime
We'll have an early breakfast before our full-day safari in Pilanesberg National Park. Hop aboard an open safari vehicle for two thrilling 2.5-hour game drives led by a highly qualified ranger. Search for the Big 5 as your knowledgeable guide shares fascinating insights, bringing the park's ecosystem to life.
In between game drives enjoy a tasty lunch break amidst the breathtaking scenery before returning to Johannesburg with unforgettable memories.
We'll return to Johannesburg in the evening for a free evening and dinner on your own.
Breakfast and Lunch
Day 5: Journey to Cape Town
“A few months later, a letter came back in the post: “Great to hear from you. How are you? Love, Dad.” He gave me his address in Cape Town... Seeing him had reaffirmed his choosing of me. He chose to have me in his life. He chose to answer my letter. I was wanted. Being chosen is the greatest gift you can give to another human being.” - Born A Crime
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast before our included afternoon flight whisks you away to Cape Town, a city embraced by breathtaking natural beauty. Upon arrival, relax with convenient airport pickups and check into your comfortable accommodations at our 4-star centrally located boutique hotel.
Lunch is at your leisure, so take this opportunity to enjoy the hotel's onsite rooftop restaurant or explore one of the many eateries within walking distance of our hotel.
This evening, prepare for an unforgettable Braai experience. A braai is a traditional South African barbecue bursting with flavor. Savor delicious grilled food and sides, all while enjoying the lively game night atmosphere and the sounds of local music. Get ready for an engaging evening filled with laughter, delicious food, and a chance to connect with fellow travelers and locals alike.
Breakfast and Dinner
Day 6: Bo-Kaap Crafts
“Women held the community together. “Wathint’Abafazi Wathint’imbokodo!” was the chant they would rally to during the freedom struggle. “When you strike a woman, you strike a rock.” As a nation, we recognized the power of women”
Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and we'll meet for lunch at a local Black woman-owned eatery helmed by Eastern Cape native Chef Nolu Dube-Cele. This restaurant offers a delicious exploration of South African cuisine inspired by Chef Nolu Dube-Cele’s childhood.
This aftenoon we'll visit Bo-Kaap, a vibrant neighborhood bursting with colorful houses and rich Cape Malay culture. Stroll along charming streets and admire the iconic rainbow-hued houses of Bo-Kaap.
You'l get to unleash your inner creative as you make bold, bright jewelry using traditional shweshwe fabric in a Bo Kaap studio.
The remainder of the afternoon is yours to explore at your own pace. Wander through Bo-Kaap's hidden gems, explore the city's nightlife, or indulge in a delicious dinner on your own, savoring the diverse culinary offerings of Cape Town.
Breakfast and Lunch
Day 7: Penguins, Beaches & Books: A Cape Peninsula Adventure
“Apartheid was perfect racism. It took centuries to develop, starting all the way back in 1652 when the Dutch East India Company landed at the Cape of Good Hope and established a trading colony, Kaapstad, later known as Cape Town, a rest stop for ships traveling between Europe and India.” - Born A Crime
Get ready for a breathtaking journey along the Cape Peninsula's iconic coastline! This full-day adventure packs in stunning beaches, adorable penguins, and charming harbor towns.
Wind your way along scenic routes, stopping at the picture-perfect beaches of Clifton and Camps Bay. Marvel at the beauty of Hout Bay, a traditional fishing village where you can see seals, before venturing further south.
Reach the dramatic Cape Point, the southwestern tip of Africa. Take in the panoramic views and explore the iconic lighthouse.
Prepare to be charmed by the adorable penguin colony at Boulders Beach. Observe these playful creatures waddling on the sand or nestling among the boulders.
Continue your journey to historic Simon's Town and Kalk Bay, a vibrant village brimming with artistic flair. Savor a delicious lunch at the renowned Fran's Restaurant before enjoying some free time to explore Kalk Bay's unique bookstores, such as Kalk Bay Books and Quagga Rare Books.
As the day winds down, soak up the colorful beach huts and legendary surfing scene at Muizenberg Beach before returning to your Cape Town accommodation.
Dinner is on your own tonight.
Breakfast and Lunch
Day 8: Free Day
Today is yours to design! Relax on a pristine beach, delve deeper into a neighborhood that caught your eye, or explore hidden gems using our handy city guide (included!). Whether you crave cultural experiences, culinary delights, or outdoor adventures, Cape Town has something for everyone.
Breakfast
Day 9: Black-Owned Winelands
“Perhaps even more amazing is the fact that my mother started her little project, me, at a time when she could not have known that apartheid would end. There was no reason to think it would end; it had seen generations come and go. I was nearly six when Mandela was released, ten before democracy finally came, yet she was preparing me to live a life of freedom long before we knew freedom would exist.”
We'll end our day at Klein Goederust, the first Black-owned winery in the Franschhoek wine region, which was acquired by the Siguqa family in 2019 after saving diligently for 15 years. The winery is inspired by the legacy of family matriarch Nomaroma Siguqa, a Cape wine farm laborer of 37 years whose foresight and determination laid the foundation for this new chapter. Meet the inspiring owner and sommelier as we enjoy a delicious onsite tasting.
Breakfast and Lunch
Day 10: Closing Dinner
“Love is a creative act. When you love someone you create a new world for them. My mother did that for me, and with the progress I made and the things I learned, I came back and created a new world and a new understanding for her.” - Born A Crime
Feel free to sleep in, have a leisurely breakfast and design your perfect free day. This is a great opportunity to utilize our Cape Town guide to explore the cities bookstores, museums, restaurants and shopping.
Tonight we'll enjoy a one-of-a-kind 14-dish dinner at a Black woman-owned establishment that takes you on a culinary journey along the spice route, from Uganda to Zanzibar. Savor vibrant flavors, witness the artistry of the chefs, and be captivated by live djembe drumming. We'll get the special opportunity to go behind the scenes to meet the women who make this experience possible. This isn't just a meal; it's a cultural celebration and a night to remember!
Breakfast and Dinner
Day 11: Departures
As your incredible South African adventure comes to a close, enjoy a relaxing morning in Cape Town. Reflect on the unforgettable memories you've created, do any last-minute souvenir shopping, or savor a final breakfast at your favorite spot. Convenient airport transportation to Cape Town International Airport ("CPT" airport code) is included, ensuring a smooth journey back home.
We hope you leave Cape Town with a heart full of cherished memories and a renewed appreciation for South Africa's beauty, culture, and resilience.
Breakfast
Our Featured Book: Born A Crime
Our trip is inspired by “Born A Crime”, a memoir written by comedian, podcaster, and former host of the Daily Show Trevor Noah. Born a Crime is a powerful blend of humor and honesty, chronicling Trevor Noah’s childhood under the shadow of apartheid, South Africa’s brutal system of racial segregation. Born a Crime isn’t just a personal story; it’s a window into a nation’s past. Born to a Black Xhosa mother and a white Swiss father, Trevor’s very existence was outlawed under apartheid’s racial classifications. Our trip will explore the legacy of apartheid. We’ll walk the streets of Soweto, the Johannesburg township where Trevor grew up, experiencing firsthand the resilience and vibrant culture that blossomed under oppression.
Born a Crime extends beyond apartheid and celebrates the joy and complexity of post-apartheid South Africa. Cape Town, with its breathtaking scenery and undeniable charm, becomes a backdrop for Trevor’s tales of visiting his father and navigating a “rainbow nation” still grappling with its past. Our exploration of Cape Town will echo this duality, showcasing the city’s natural wonders alongside its hidden struggles.
Throughout the trip, we’ll delve deeper into South Africa’s history and contemporary issues moving beyond the headlines and stereotypes to discover the country’s complexity.
Are you ready to laugh, learn, and be inspired? Book your spot and join us on this unforgettable journey!
What Is Included?
- A copy of Born A Crime by Trevor Noah and a playlist with sounds of the city.
- Single ensuite accommodations throughout the trip.
- agsdix-smt2-flightInternal flight from Johannesburg to Cape Town.
- All activities listed in the itinerary including a two game drive safari in Pilanesburg National Park.
- All breakfasts, 6 lunches, and 4 dinners.
- Ground transportation to included activities, including airport transfers on designated trip arrival and departure dates.
- Local guides throughout the trip.
What Is not Included?
- Flights to and from destination.
- Pre/post trip accommodations.
- Travel insurance (required)
- Visa and passport fees (if required)
- Gratuities and incidental expenses.
Our Hotels
In Johannesburg, we’ll be staying in a 4-star, centrally hotel in the upscale Rosebank neighborhood that represents the vibrance and creativity of Johannesburg. Each traveler will get a private king-sized room with included breakfast to relax and unwind at the end of each day.
Enjoy an onsite fitness center open seven days a week, 24 hours a day as well as an onsite co-working space. Guests can grab a bite to eat at the popular onsite restaurant or enjoy one of the many restaurants within walking distance of the house. Nearby attractions include the Rosebank Mall, Rosebank Art & Craft Market, Everard Reed and Goodman art galleries, as well as Constitution Hill and the Human Rights Precinct.
In Cape Town we’ll be staying in a boutique, centrally located 4-star hotel with panoramic views of Table Mountain and within easy, safe walking distance of the nightlife and restaurants of Kloof Street.
The hotel includes a contemporary African art gallery, two outdoor pools (including a heated plunge pool), a poolside bar, and a sauna.
Guests can grab a bite to eat at the onsite restaurant or visit the spa to be pampered with deep-tissue massages, facials, or body scrubs. The hotel is committed to renewable energy and has solar panels that provide backup electricity during load shedding to ensure guests have uninterrupted access to wifi and can charge their devices.
Additional Info
Pricing
The listed price of the trip is $5,900 per person based on single occupancy. Interest free monthly payment plans are available!
Entry requirements
A valid passport with at least 6 months of validity beyond the trip dates and at least one blank page in your passport for endorsements. A valid visa, if required. The U.S, Canada, UK, France, and other visa exempt countries do not need stays for up to 90 days.
Activity Level
Participants should be comfortable walking up to 2 miles over the course of a day for walking tours. Please contact us directly if you have further questions about health and fitness level for this trip.
Arrival & Departure
Flights from the U.S. should depart on April 15, 2026 (one day prior to the trip start date) to arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa on April 16, 2026 in time for the opening dinner and book discussion. If possible, book flights that arrive no later than 3:00 p.m. local time.
*Please note that you will be arriving and departing out of two different airports. You will arrive in Johannesburg and depart from Cape Town, South Africa. Flights between Johannesburg and Cape Town are included in your trip price. International roundtrip flights must be purchased by travelers.
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