Royal Fairways 2027
South Africa Golf & Safari Journey
Thirteen days, twelve nights. Five 18-hole golf courses played. A small group of six to twelve. And a corner of South Africa that few travellers ever see stitched together into a single, uninterrupted journey. This is the Royal Fairways Golf & Safari Journey, a rare set departure built for those who want their golf world-class, their landscapes untamed, and their days unhurried.
We begin in the rolling green hush of the Midlands, settled into a country retreat with golf at Gowrie Farm before the pace shifts toward wine tasting and the rising drama of the Drakensberg, its basalt cliffs and ancient silence crowned by a shared helicopter champagne landing on the Little Berg, glass in hand, seven thousand feet above it all.
From there the journey turns wild, into the Big Five plains of Nambiti, then deep into history and living culture at the Nelson Mandela Capture Site and Phezulu, where Zulu tradition is shared with us rather than performed for us.
Golf returns at Cotswold Downs before the road bends east to the Dolphin Coast and the Ernie Els Signature Course at Zimbali.
The night before our final round, we sit down to a private six-course dinner at The Chefs’ Table, with a menu built around the best seasonal produce KwaZulu-Natal has that week.
Then comes the round everyone will talk about. On Day 12 you play Durban Country Club, one of South Africa’s great championship courses, with Thanda Mavundla, a Sunshine Tour and DP World Tour professional, alongside you. He knows every break on these greens.
It is a journey built in careful balance: mountain and wildlife immersion, championship fairways, living heritage and coastal indulgence, kept intimate from start to finish. Few groups will ever walk this exact path together. From 3 to 15 June 2027, you will.
Itinerary Overview
Quick Summary
| Day | Description | Accommodation |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 (Thu Jun 3, 2027) | Arrival in Durban and the Midlands | Fordoun Spa Hotel & Restaurant |
| Day 2 (Fri Jun 4, 2027) | 18 holes golf at Gowrie Farm | Fordoun Spa Hotel & Restaurant |
| Day 3 (Sat Jun 5, 2027) | uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park and Abingdon Estate wine tasting | Cathedral Peak Hotel |
| Day 4 (Sun Jun 6, 2027) | 18 Holes of Championship Golf and helicopter with champagne landing | Cathedral Peak Hotel |
| Day 5 (Mon Jun 7, 2027) | From the Mountains to Big Five Country | Nambiti Hills Game Lodge – Luxury Suite |
| Day 6 (Tue Jun 8, 2027) | Safari in Nambiti Game Reserve | Nambiti Hills Game Lodge – Luxury Suite |
| Day 7 (Wed Jun 9, 2027) | Game drives and walks | Nambiti Hills Game Lodge – Luxury Suite |
| Day 8 (Thu Jun 10, 2027) | From the African Bush to the Zulu Palace | Ammazulu African Palace |
| Day 9 (Fri Jun 11, 2027) | 18 Holes of Championship Golf & Zulu Culture | Ammazulu African Palace |
| Day 10 (Sat Jun 12, 2027) | To the Dolphin Coast | The Capital Zimbali |
| Day 11 (Sun Jun 13, 2027) | 18 Holes of Championship Golf – Ernie Els Signature Course & private six-course dinner at The Chefs’ Table | The Capital Zimbali |
| Day 12 (Mon Jun 14, 2027) | 18 Holes of Championship Golf. Assistance from Thanda Mavundla | The Capital Zimbali |
| Day 13 (Tue Jun 15, 2027) | Departure Day |
Detailed Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Durban and the Midlands
Arrival at Durban’s King Shaka International Airport
On arrival at Durban’s King Shaka International Airport, the group will be met by a driver-tour guide and transferred inland to the peaceful KwaZulu-Natal Midlands.
Fordoun Spa Hotel & Restaurant Introduction
Nestled among rolling hills, forests, streams, and landscaped gardens, Fordoun Spa Hotel & Restaurant is an elegant country retreat renowned for its restorative atmosphere and wellness facilities. The property combines refined accommodation with the warmth and tranquility of a working rural estate, making it the perfect introduction to the province.
Afternoon Leisure at Fordoun
The afternoon is ideal for a gentle walk, a spa treatment, or simply enjoying the gardens and mountain air. The Skye Bistro is a fine dining a la carte restaurant at the hotel and is ranked the top restaurant in the region.
- Accommodation: Fordoun Spa Hotel & Restaurant
Day 2 Golf in the Midlands
Golf at Gowrie Farm
After breakfast, golfers will be transferred to Gowrie Farm, where they can enjoy a round amid the picturesque landscapes of the Midlands.
Midlands Leisure for Non-Golfers
Non-golfers will have access to the vehicle and tour guide for a leisurely exploration of the region. The picturesque Midlands is ideal for a relaxed discovery, with its country cafés, artisan studios, galleries, farm stalls, gardens, and scenic roads winding through the hills.
Nottingham Road Brewing Company
Nottingham Road Brewing Company is a welcoming country brewery where craft beer, hearty food, and relaxed countryside hospitality come together. Guests can sample a selection of locally produced ales and lagers, each offering its own distinctive flavor.
Chocolate Heaven, Nottingham Road
Chocolate Heaven is an ideal stop to add to a day of country drives, local cafés, craft shops, and nearby attractions. Famous for its tempting handcrafted Belgian chocolates, this charming attraction is perfect for visitors looking to enjoy something indulgent while exploring the scenic countryside.
- Accommodation: Fordoun Spa Hotel & Restaurant
- Meals: B
Day 3 uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park and Abingdon Estate wine tasting
Depart Fordoun. Abingdon Wine Estate Tasting
Depart Fordoun after breakfast and travel through the scenic Midlands countryside to the small and family-run Abingdon Wine Estate. Enjoy a tasting experience surrounded by peaceful vineyards and panoramic rural views before continuing toward the magnificent Central Drakensberg. The handcrafted wine tastings are available at R150 per person and include a selection of five estate wines, showcasing the diversity and quality of Abingdon’s vineyard. All wines are also available to enjoy by the glass (125ml or 175ml) or by the bottle while relaxing at the estate.
Lunch at Abingdon Wine Estate
Set against the backdrop of the vineyard, and voted South Africa’s Best Kept Secret in the 2019 by American Express Dining Awards, Abingdon’s restaurant offers the perfect ambiance for a relaxed lunch. Their menu features a fresh, seasonal harvest board, sharing plates and tapas-style dishes designed to complement their wines.
Travel to Cathedral Peak Hotel
After lunch, you’ll head west towards Cathedral Peak. Dramatically positioned beneath the soaring peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains, a spectacular natural setting, the welcoming country Cathedral Peak Hotel provides a memorable base for mountain experiences, fine views, and restorative relaxation.
- Accommodation: Cathedral Peak Hotel
- Meals: B, D
Day 4 Champagne Sports Resort and Drakensberg Leisure
Golf at Champagne Sports Resort
Golfers will be transferred to Champagne Sports Resort for their round before returning to Cathedral Peak Hotel.
Drakensberg Leisure for Non-Golfers
Non-golfers may enjoy the hotel and its beautiful surroundings at leisure, either by horseback or in a helicopter. Cathedral Peak Hotel could arrange the helicopter flip at your own account, details as follows: Sightseeing Flight: R2 600, Approx: 15 minute flight. Champagne Landing: R3 300, Approx. 20 minute flight + 10 minute stopover.
Cathedral Peak Wine Estate Manor
Cathedral Peak Wine Estate is a stunning location nestled in the heart of the Drakensberg mountains. The wine tasting experience is well organised and informative, with a good selection of easy drinking white and red wines. The Griller restaurant offers a unique dining experience, with a tranquil atmosphere and delicious food. Wine tasting and meals at own account.
- Accommodation: Cathedral Peak Hotel
- Meals: B, L, D
Day 5 From the Mountains to Big Five Country
From the Mountains to Big Five Country
After breakfast, depart Cathedral Peak Hotel and travel north toward Nambiti Private Game Reserve. The dramatic mountain scenery gradually gives way to wide savannah, acacia woodland, and open game country. Nambiti is one of KwaZulu-Natal’s premier private reserves, offering the opportunity to encounter Africa’s iconic wildlife in a beautifully preserved setting. Upon arrival, settle into Nambiti Hills Private Game Lodge, an intimate luxury retreat overlooking the reserve. The lodge combines contemporary African style with panoramic wilderness views, creating an ideal setting for relaxation between safari activities. The driver-tour guide will depart once the group has been dropped off.
- Accommodation: Nambiti Hills Game Lodge – Luxury Suite
- Meals: B, L, D
Day 6 Safari in Nambiti Game Reserve
Safari in Nambiti Private Game Reserve
- Accommodation: Nambiti Hills Game Lodge – Luxury Suite
- Meals: B, L, D
Day 7 Game Drives and Walks
Safari in Nambiti Game Reserve
The Lodge offers two daily game drives: one early in the morning and one in the late afternoon. Each lasts about 3–4 hours, with stops for coffee or sundowners, and wildlife sightings.
Careful management of veld condition and monitoring of animal populations as they were introduced has been a focal point at Nambiti, particularly in the supervision of the populations of lion, rhino and elephant. The commitment to conservation and community sees them playing an important role in the area in which they operate. The lodge employs and empowers an impressive number of locals; they’ve been able to bring life-giving revenue to many households, whilst boosting tourism and the nation’s economy. Through numerous conservation efforts, they play a vital part in protecting the land as well as the creatures that call it home.
Nambiti Hills embodies a mix of contemporary design, with a truly authentic African feel. Sparing no luxury, the lodge reflects the serenity of its surroundings with neutral colours representing life, renewal, nature, and energy.
- Accommodation: Nambiti Hills Game Lodge – Luxury Suite
- Meals: B, L, D
Day 8 From the African Bush to the Zulu Palace
Nelson Mandela Capture Site and Kloof
Your driver-tour guide will collect you from Nambiti after breakfast and head south via the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, a place of profound historical importance. The site commemorates Nelson Mandela’s arrest in 1962 and features a striking sculptural interpretation of his legacy and contribution to South Africa.
Continue to Kloof and Ammazulu African Palace, an atmospheric property inspired by African art, culture, and architecture. Surrounded by lush gardens, the hotel offers a distinctive and immersive experience, with richly decorated interiors and a strong sense of place. Return dinner transfers to a nearby restaurant will be provided (dinner for your own account).
- Accommodation: Ammazulu African Palace
- Meals: B
Day 9 Golf & Zulu Culture
Golf at Cotswold Downs
Golfers will be transferred to Cotswold Downs for their round before returning to Ammazulu African Palace.
Phezulu Safari Park Zulu Cultural Experience
Non-golfers will visit Phezulu Safari Park for a vibrant Zulu dancing performance and cultural experience, followed by lunch. Energetic and impressive: visitors often mention the high kicks, athletic dancing, drumming, singing, colorful traditional clothing, and humorous performance. Lunch is at own account.
Return Dinner Transfer
In the evening, a return dinner transfer will be provided. Dinner is at own account.
Top 4 Restaurants in Hillcrest
- Oscars Cafe: European, Vegetarian options. Open until 10pm
- Olive and Oil Restaurant: Mediterranean, Grill, Seafood, Vegetarian options. Open until 9pm
- Ocean Basket Hillcrest: Seafood, Sushi, Mediterranean, Vegetarian options. Open until 9pm
- Mozambik Hillcrest: Portuguese, Seafood, Vegetarian options. Open until 9pm
- Accommodation: Ammazulu African Palace
- Meals: B
Day 10 To the Dolphin Coast
Zimbali Coastal Retreat
Depart Kloof and travel toward the Indian Ocean and the golden beaches of KwaZulu-Natal’s Dolphin Coast.
The Capital Zimbali Resort offers a stylish coastal retreat set within the renowned Zimbali estate. Surrounded by indigenous vegetation and close to the beach, the resort provides a relaxed combination of contemporary comfort, resort facilities, and easy access to the attractions of Ballito.
The driver- tour guide will depart upon the group’s arrival.
- Accommodation: The Capital Zimbali
- Meals: B
Day 11 18 Holes of Championship Golf – Ernie Els Signature Course & private six-course dinner at The Chefs’ Table
Golf at Zimbali Lakes
Golfers will be transferred to the Ernie Els Signature Golf Course at Zimbali Lakes, an exceptional coastal golfing experience shaped by the natural beauty of the area.
Dolphin Coast Leisure for Non-Golfers
Non-golfers may remain at The Capital Zimbali and enjoy the resort facilities or utilize the shuttle service for hotel guests to the nearby locations such as Ballito and Umhlanga. This service is subject to availability and can be arranged through the concierge desk at a fee. Both Ballito and Umhlanga offer a lively selection of restaurants, cafés, shops, and beachfront promenades.
The Waterberry Coffee Shop
Discover The Waterberry Coffee Shop, where you can enjoy a diverse menu of breakfast and brunch options along with artisanal coffees. The cozy atmosphere invites you to relax amidst stunning views of nature. With a focus on locally sourced ingredients and sustainable practices, each meal promises a fresh and delightful experience.
The Litchi Orchard.
At The Litchi Orchard, immerse yourself in the joy of picking fresh litchis straight from the trees. Wander through picturesque orchards while enjoying guided tours that reveal the art of litchi farming. Don’t miss the chance to explore unique litchi products available in the charming on-site shop.
High Tea at The Oyster Box, Umhlanga
High tea at the grand Oyster Box in Umhlanga is served daily in the elegant Palm Court, featuring a lavish buffet of sweet and savoury delights alongside a selection of premium teas. Guests can enjoy a refined atmosphere with live piano music, making it a memorable experience for both residents and visitors.
Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom
Experience the vibrant Sibaya Casino & Entertainment Kingdom, where thrilling gaming options await, from slots to table games. Enjoy a variety of dining options and immerse yourself in live entertainment that captivates audiences year-round. With breathtaking ocean views and cultural decor, this venue is a lively hub for entertainment and relaxation.
- Accommodation: The Capital Zimbali
- Tour: Dinner: The Chef’s Table at The Oyster Box
- Meals: B
Day 12 Durban Country Club with Thanda Mavundla
Golf at Durban Country Club
Golfers will be transferred to Durban Country Club for their final round of the journey before returning to The Capital Zimbali.
Leisure at The Capital Zimbali or Ballito
Non-golfers may relax at the resort or arrange an optional transfer into Ballito at own account.
Thanda Mavundla
Meet Thanda Mavundla. He plays the course as a member of the Durban Country Club family and has competed on the Sunshine and DP World Tours. Today he’s accompanying you. Expect club selection, green reading and a few stories you won’t get from a yardage book.
Durban Country Club
Durban Country Club opened in 1922 after the city needed a new golf course to replace the flood-prone Greyville course. Created largely by hand through sand dunes and dense bush, it went on to become one of South Africa’s most celebrated courses.
The club has hosted the South African Open a record 18 times and welcomed legends including Gary Player, Bobby Locke, Ernie Els and Tim Clark. In 2023–2024, the course underwent a major renovation to improve drainage and playing conditions while preserving its historic character.
Today, Durban Country Club remains a strategic test of accuracy, course management and restraint, where every hole presents choices and rewards thoughtful play.
- Accommodation: The Capital Zimbali
- Meals: B
Day 13 Departure Day
Hamba Kahle KwaZulu-Natal!
After breakfast, transfer from The Capital Zimbali Resort to King Shaka International Airport for the onward journey.
Depart KwaZulu-Natal having experienced a remarkable blend of championship golf, country hospitality, mountain grandeur, African wildlife, living culture, and Indian Ocean relaxation.
- Accommodation: The Capital Zimbali
- Meals: B
Accommodation on This Tour
Accommodation overview: Where you will be staying on this tour.
Fordoun Spa Hotel & Restaurant
South Africa
Fordoun Spa Hotel & Restaurant is an award-winning luxury boutique hotel and spa in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands near Nottingham Road, South Africa.
The property combines historic farmstead character with modern comfort, creating a tranquil country retreat with panoramic Drakensberg views.
Guests can dine at the on-site Skye Bistro, an upmarket à la carte restaurant, and enjoy a strong focus on personalised hospitality.
The hotel has 22 individually styled rooms, each with its own theme and design touches. It also offers a self-catering farm village with 11 fully equipped cottages, plus a chapel and wedding/conference venue. Room amenities across the hotel include features such as king-size beds, minibars, tea and coffee making facilities, DSTV, and DVD players, depending on room type.
Spa facilities are a major draw, with a wide range of treatments and wellness experiences.
Fordoun is well suited to romantic getaways, spa breaks, destination weddings, and quiet countryside escapes. Its setting is peaceful and scenic, with views, gardens, and historic buildings that add to the sense of place. Overall, it presents itself as a refined Midlands hideaway with strong food, spa, and accommodation offerings.
Cathedral Peak Hotel
Drakensberg - South Africa
Cathedral Peak Hotel is a long-established 4-star mountain resort set in the heart of the Drakensberg, surrounded by dramatic peaks and wide-open wilderness.
The hotel positions itself as a hidden gem with a relaxed, family-owned feel and a strong focus on scenic escapes, dining, and outdoor leisure.
Guests can choose from a range of room styles, from practical standard rooms to more indulgent suites.
The property is particularly appealing for travellers seeking mountain views, fresh air, and a quiet retreat away from city life.
On-site facilities include dining, a wellness centre, a games room, table tennis, squash, and a fully equipped gym.
The hotel also emphasises hiking and other outdoor activities in the surrounding UNESCO World Heritage landscape.
Rooms are spread across gardens and secluded areas of the property, which adds to the sense of privacy.
Nambiti Hills Game Lodge
Ladysmith - South Africa
Nambiti Hills Game Lodge is a luxury 5-star safari retreat set in the Big 5 Nambiti Reserve in KwaZulu-Natal, offering an intimate bush escape with sweeping valley views.
The lodge is positioned in a prime sector of the reserve, making it a strong base for wildlife viewing and relaxed safari stays.
Guests can expect a polished, indulgent atmosphere that blends comfort with a true wilderness setting.
The property highlights sunrise and sunset game drives led by expert guides, with opportunities to spot the Big 5.
The lodge also features a pool, wellness treatments, and gourmet dining prepared in-house.
Its signature Honeymoon Suite is designed for privacy and romance, with indoor and outdoor showers, a freestanding bath, and a private veranda.
The accommodation style emphasizes warm, natural interiors and scenic outdoor spaces.
It is well suited to couples, safari travellers, and guests looking for a refined reserve experience.
The lodge also provides Wi-Fi and other in-room comforts for a more convenient stay.
Luxury SuiteOne of 10 luxury suites with warm, inviting interiors, natural tones, plush beds, an open-plan lounge, exclusive veranda, indoor shower, extra-large free-standing bath, air conditioning, mini bar, Wi-Fi, and tea and coffee station.
Ammazulu African Palace
Kloof - South Africa
Ammazulu African Palace is a distinctive adults-only guesthouse in Kloof, near Durban, known for its richly decorated interiors and strong Zulu art theme.
The property sits close to the Krantzkloof Nature Reserve, giving many rooms and common areas scenic reserve views.
Guests can expect a boutique experience with individually furnished suites, artistic décor, and a highly memorable visual style.
The lodge offers a peaceful setting away from the city while still being a convenient drive from Durban.
Amenities commonly highlighted include free Wi‑Fi, an outdoor pool, parking, airport shuttle service, and relaxation facilities such as a sauna and steam room.
The atmosphere is more intimate and characterful than a standard hotel, making it appealing to travellers looking for a unique stay.
The property is also noted for its beaded columns, antique-style finishes, and exhibition-like public spaces.
It is especially suited to couples and adults seeking a quiet retreat.
The overall impression is of a small, art-filled palace with a strong local cultural identity.
The Capital Zimbali
Balito - South Africa
The Capital Zimbali is a five-star resort set in the Zimbali Estate on South Africa’s Dolphin Coast, near Ballito and Durban. It is positioned as a luxury coastal escape with expansive ocean and garden surroundings.
The resort offers a mix of rooms, suites, apartments, and villas, making it suitable for couples, families, and larger groups.
Guests can expect a strong leisure focus, with swimming pools, restaurants, spa-style relaxation, and resort activities all on site.
The property highlights upscale dining and a range of social spaces, including bars and lounges.
Its location also places it within convenient reach of King Shaka International Airport.
The resort emphasizes stylish, comfortable accommodation with scenic views and a relaxed tropical atmosphere.
Price Includes
12 nights’ accommodation, with breakfast.
4 lunches.
6 dinners – including the Chefs’ Table!
2 safari activities per day at Nambiti.
Tour guide and driver where stated.
Transfers as stated.
Abingdon wine tasting.
Guided Drakensberg hike.
Nelson Mandela Capture Site visit.
Helicopter scenic flight with champagne landing.
Nambiti Conservation Levy.
For golfers:
5 rounds of golf with carts at Gowrie, Champagne Sports, Cotswold Downs Golf club, Zimbali/Zimbali lakes and Durban Country Club.
Thanda Mavundla, qualified golf professional, joins the four-ball for the round, offering practical on-course guidance, local course knowledge and personalised support while playing alongside you.
For non-golfers:
Phezulu Zulu dancing experience.
Price Excludes
International flights
Visa fees
Optional Activities
Personal expenses
Premium drinks
Gratuities
Travel Insurance
All items not listed as specifically included
All rates are based on current taxes, fees, and costs. We reserve the right to change our rates without prior notice if base fees, taxes, and expenses change.
Why not extend your African adventure and discover more of this extraordinary continent?
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Why African Signature
Curated Destinations
The Right Place We don’t do "everywhere." We focus on the corners of Africa where the fences are down and the wildlife is still truly wild. From the floodplains of the Zambezi to the dry pans of the Kalahari, we only send you to regions where the land is vast enough to get lost in and the sightings are worth the journey.
Tailored Experiences
The Ground Level Safari isn't just about sitting in a vehicle. It’s about the crunch of grass under your boots on a walking safari, the silent glide of a boat through a reed bed, or the patience of sitting at a waterhole for three hours. We design your days around the rhythm of the animals, not the schedule of a hotel.
Sustainable Stewardship
The Real Impact Travel here has to mean something. We partner with people who are actually on the front lines—the ones running anti-poaching units, protecting habitat, and ensuring local communities see the value in keeping these lions and elephants alive. Your trip is what keeps those boots on the ground.
Do You Have Questions About This Tour?
We Are Here To Help
Connect with an Africa Specialist to discuss this Signature Experience.
Travel Insurance
Protect your investment and don’t forget Travel Insurance! This is mandatory for all our bookings.
In addition to trip cancellation and interruption, most travel insurance plans include coverage for trip delay, missed connection, lost or delayed baggage, medical expenses, and emergency evacuation with repatriation of remains. 24-hour assistance services are included to help the traveller with things such as emergency medical assistance, lost baggage tracking, emergency cash transfer, emergency or last-minute travel arrangements, assistance with replacing lost travel documents and much more.
Why Buy a Travel Insurance Plan? Because Travel Mishaps Occur Every Day! No matter how hard you try, there are some things you just can’t plan for:
If a family member gets sick. If your baggage is lost. If your trip is delayed. Your passport is lost or stolen. If the weather prevents your travel. You need to see a doctor for a sudden injury – your health insurance may not be valid overseas, and medical evacuations can be really expensive. If you miss a flight connection (- e.g. only 80% of US flights arrive on time) You don’t want to lose all your money if you have to cancel your trip. Sometimes, even expert travellers need a little help.
Whilst we will provide you with a Temporary Membership to the Flying Doctor’s Emergency Evacuation scheme in Tanzania, this has to have a corresponding international insurance to cover hospital and emergency cover when you land at the nearest available medical facility.
Please be sure that the travel insurance that you have is right for you!
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Our Concierge Is Here To Help
If you have any questions, please feel free to ask our concierge in the bottom right corner. They will assist you or put you in contact with one of our African Specialists.
