ATOL PROTECTED
Provisional itinerary
Wednesday 03 July
Meet at Dublin Airport (with the option of Manchester or Heathrow possible), where an Edwin Doran Sports Tours Representative shall assist you with your check in three hours prior to your scheduled flight to Johannesburg departing at 1730 hrs via London Heathrow.
Overnight: In Flight
Thursday 04 July
On arrival into Johannesburg Airport at 0915 hrs, clear Customs and Immigration Control, and board your coach. There is the option to visit Lesedi Cultural Village where you can enjoy some of the rich African culture first hand. The people of Lesedi have created an African ambience that you won’t find elsewhere! You will enjoy a tour of five traditional villages, listen to the local music and witness a superb dance performance before enjoying a traditional Lunch.
Travel to Pretoria, South Africa's administrative capital, and known to many as the Jacaranda City. You will be based, next to Loftus Park Stadium, for the following nights A welcome reception is provided.
Included Excursion: Welcome Reception
Overnight: Loftus Park Hotel, Bed & Breakfast
Friday 05 July
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast and transfer to Mabula Game Reserve, home to Africa’s 'Big Five' and where you will spend the day and evening. Enjoy lunch upon arrival, before checking in to your rooms.
After settling in, you have the opportunity to avail of the onsite sports and leisure facilities. In the late afternoon, head out on an Escorted Dusk Game Drive with a Guide, giving you a chance to spot some of Africa's Big 5 while the sun sets on the African plains. When you return enjoy a scrumptious dinner and spending time around the fire, under the moonlit stars.
Included Excursion: Game Drive
Overnight: Mabula Game Reserve, Full Board
Saturday 06 July
This morning rise early for your final Escorted Dawn Game Drive, and a final chance to see Africa's wonderful wildlife in the calm of the morning. Return to the Lodge for breakfast before you check out.
Transfer to and enjoy the sights of Pretoria. Later you will be escorted to Loftus Park Stadium, for the forthcoming Test match contest.
Match Day: SOUTH AFRICA vs IRELAND KO tba
Once the match is over, transfer to Benoni country estate in the East Rand of Gauteng, for the evening.
Included Excursion: Game Drive / Test Match
Overnight: aha Kopanong Hotel, Bed & Breakfast
Sunday 07 July
Transfer back to Johannesburg Airport, where you will get on an internal flight to Cape Town, departing at 0900 hrs.
On arrival you will transfer to the Winelands and your hotel in Franschhoek, where you will be based for the following two nights.
We have arranged for you some wine tasting and dinner at Grande Provence Wine Estate, which nestles within the breathtaking Franschhoek Valley, enveloped by majestic, untamed mountains. This is the very heart of South African wine country at its most exquisite. Here, the estate encapsulates the essence of heritage, seamlessly blending the charm of Cape Dutch architecture with the precision and clarity of contemporary design.
Included Excursions: Wine Tasting & Meal
Overnight: Franschhoek Hotel, Bed & Breakfast
Monday 08 July
Today you will enjoy a Wine Tour & Tasting Excursion in Franschhoek, on the famous Franschhoek Wine Tram, which takes you on a set wander of wine tasting and gastronomic delights through the various famous wineries of the region. You will encounter some of the area's best wine estates along with enjoying the cellar tours and exclusive tastings with sommeliers. Afterwards, you will enjoy a Lunch either at one of the Vineyards.
Included Excursions: Wine Tram Excursion
Overnight: Franschhoek Hotel, Bed & Breakfast
Tuesday 09 July
This morning , transfer to the most iconic landmark in South Africa - Table Mountain where you will enjoy a cable car ride to the summit to witness some fantastic views across Cape Town, Table Bay, Robben Island and more.
You will visit one of the best spots in Cape Town, Camps Bay. Backed by a row of palm trees, explore the bank of fashionable restaurants and coffee shops that overlook the beach. If you are feeling brave you can dip your toes into the cold Atlantic Ocean. Afterwards, you will enjoy a drive over Chapman's Peak with breathtaking views.
Check in to your hotel for the final night of the tour. Visit the V&A Waterfront where an Meal has been arranged at the renowned City Grill restaurant. Make your own way back to the hotel this evening.
Included Excursions: Table Mountain / Camps Bay / Chapman's Peak / Evening Meal
Overnight: Radisson RED, Bed & Breakfast
Wednesday 10 July
Check out and you can then visit one of Africa’s most visited destinations. Situated in the oldest working harbour in South Africa, with the iconic Table Mountain as its backdrop, makes the V&A Waterfront is a favourite for local and international visitors. More than 80 eateries bring a fusion of both international and local cuisine, from rustic al fresco to fine dining. You are spoiled for choice with 12 hotels, over 500 retail stores, five museums and live entertainment 365 days a year showcasing the best local music. Immerse in a wide variety of attractions and activities like sunset cruises, helicopter flights, free audio tours, or visit the award winning Two Oceans Aquarium and much more.
This afternoon return to Cape Town Airport where you will check in for your return flight to Dublin departing at 1840 hrs, via London.
Overnight: In flight
Thursday 11 July
On your arrival back into Dublin (or Manchester or London) at 0945 hrs, you will collect your baggage, pass through security and head for home.
Price per person
£2325.00 - Based on 40 travelling
- Never beaten on service, quality or price - Part of our price promise
- Based on current prices and availability
- ATOL Protected
Please contact Andrew Loughlin directly, who is organising and managing this tour, to book a place. The specific details of payment requirements particular to this tour can be advised to you. Initial best contact is via email or mobile. All bookings to be confirmed by 31 January 2024.
Tour inclusions
Flights & Taxes
Scheduled flights in Economy Class. All current airport taxes and fuel surcharges included.
IMPORTANT NB: Please note that taxes are constantly changing. If there is any difference in the above figures at the time of your final invoice you will either be charged for the additional amount or receive a credit.
Baggage
Allowance of 23kgs of checked in hold baggage per person and one item of carry on baggage per person in compliance with airline’s baggage policy.
Accommodation
Accommodation as follows based upon sharing twin/double rooms.
An additional supplement will apply if any single extra rooms are required.
| Protea Loftus Park | 1 night | Bed & Breakfast |
| Mabula Game Reserve | 1 night | Full Board |
| aha Kopanong Hotel | 1 night | Bed & Breakfast |
| Franschhoek Hotel | 2 nights | Bed & Breakfast |
| Radisson RED Cape Town | 1 night | Bed & Breakfast |
Coach Transportation
The use of an executive air conditioned coach to cover for all essential tour transfers
Match tickets
Ticket to the SA Boks vs Ireland international
Excursions & Meals
- Escorted Game Drives x 2
- Drinks reception
- Winelands Meal & Wine Tasting
- Franschhoek Wine Tram
- Table Mt
- Chapman's Peak
- City Grill
Tour Kit supplied by Canterbury
- 1 x Backpack or Holdall per person
Tour Managers Pack
Including a Tour Managers Bag and all relevant documentation
24 Hour Assistance
Support from our EDST Cape Town & Pretoria offices
Excluded
- Additional meals - can be arranged on request.
- Visas/Entry Tax - you are responsible for ensuring all tour party members have the required visa for your destination.
- Insurance - Insurance - Fully Comprehensive insurance, including COVID protection, available from Endsleigh
Why South Africa?
When traveling in South Africa, you will encounter many different landscapes across the country, from sub-tropical rain forests and semi-desert stretches to the snow-capped Drakensberg mountains, amazing beaches and beautiful grassland game reserves.
Our most popular destinations include Cape Town and the winelands, the scenic Garden Route along with the bustling Pretoria, Gauteng region of South Africa.
South Africa is a country with sport at the forefront of everyday life and is a passion of its people.
The school sport system is second to none with televised competitions and is like a religion in this warm, friendly nation of rugged natural beauty.
No where else in the world provides the wide variety of experiences, activities and attractions that can be found in this one of a kind country
South Africa Video
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YouTube | https://youtu.be/bVK59AeJaTw |
Excursions
Table Mountain
Take a cable car to the top of Table Mountain where you will be treated to breathtaking views of Cape Town and Table Bay.
Robben Island
Take a tour of the island and prison where Nelson Mandela was famously imprisoned from 1964 to 1982.
Cape Peninsula Tour
Enjoy a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula. This includes a boat trip to the seal colony at Duiker Island, Cape Point, the Cape of Good Hope and a trip to see the famous penguins at Boulders Beach.
Cheetah Outreach Sanctuary
Visit the Cheetah Outreach Sanctuary which aims to highlight the plight of the cheetah and is helping to protect it from extinction. Perhaps even enjoy a personal encounter with an adult cheetah.
Cape Canopy Tour
Slide along steel cables from platform to platform, taking you past waterfalls and through valleys, enjoying all that mother nature has to offer. With 13 platforms and slides up to 320m long, this is an trip you will never forget.
Newlands Stadium
Take a tour of the famous Newlands Stadium, home of Super Rugby team The Stormers. The stadium also hosted a semi final of the 1995 Rugby World Cup between England and New Zealand.
Whale Watching
Take a trip to Hermanus to see the Whales that migrate along this coast. Simply enjoy watching the whales from the cliff tops and the beach, or perhaps take a boat out to get a closer look!
Shark Cage Diving
Take a boat out from Cape Town and come face to face with one of the oceans most deadly predators.
Langa Township
Enjoy a tour of the Langa Township just outside Cape Town, meet the children and enjoy lunch at Sheila's famous Lelapa restaurant. Perhaps even fit in a local community fixture during your visit.
Lesedi Cultural Village
Visit Lesedi Cultural Village, the village consists of five permanently inhabited villages. Experience a traditional welcome, a guided walkabout, as well as a song and dance show. You will then enjoy a lunch at the excellent restaurant.
Escorted Game Drive
Head out on a 4x4 vehicle with a ranger who will take you in search of the famous 'Big 5' mammals - Lion, Elephant, Rhino, Buffalo and Leopard.
Apartheid Museum
The Museum illustrates what life was like for South Africans under the apartheid system through dramatic photographs, videos, press clips, personal artefacts and moving anecdotes. A must for all to learn about this horrific system of segregation.
Union Buildings
The Union Buildings form the official seat of the South African Government and also house the offices of the President of South Africa. Here you will also be able to see the stunning 9-metres bronze sculpture of Mandela.
Accommodation
All our accommodation meets strict safety standards and are equipped to deal with groups. We make sure they are located within in easy reach of your fixtures and offer plenty of good food, for your team to refuel after a hard day competing or training.
Our friendly staff are happy to advise you on the best accommodation options for your specific tour, taking into account factors like cost, adventure and comfort.
There are plenty of accommodation options to choose from in South Africa for your school sports tour. We can discuss what best suits your needs, whether it's a high-quality hotel or more basic hostel.
However there is no better way to get to know a country than to stay with locals in their homes. This is often the highlight of any sports tour, where life-long friendships are made. We arrange over 6,000 nights per year worldwide with host families.
Why Edwin Doran?
Health & Saftey
Our Health & Safety Standards
The welfare of students and staff is our number one priority. Our experienced and qualified Health & Safety Team are responsible for maintaining industry leading standards across the company allowing you to feel safe in the knowledge that all aspects of health & safety have been handled by a qualified expert.
We hold assured member status with the School Travel Forum (STF), the body who promote, standardise and regulate best practice in education travel.
Safety Management System
We assess each component of a sports tour individually, which includes going beyond assessing the adventure factor to ensure risks can be managed effectively. In doing so, we look at how we can enhance the original experience whilst remaining as safe as possible. Covering policy, organisation, planning and setting standards, monitoring, audits, and reviews, our SMS is fully compliant with the requirements of the STF.
This is reinforced by our annual assessment carried out by an STF appointed independent authority. To support our own SMS we also carry out internal regular reviews of our health and safety procedures.
Click here to read our Safety Management System
Health & Safety on your Tour
- Our expert Health & Safety team are extremely well qualified
- Every member of our team is crisis management trained
- We provide personalised information which will help you to complete your Risk Assessment.
- We rigorously assess every element of your tour to a standard that exceeds STF requirements.
Travel Aware
The Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office and the NHS have up-to-date advice on staying safe and healthy abroad. For more on security, local laws, plus passport and visa information, see Travel Aware – staying safe and healthy abroad
Keep informed of current travel health news by visiting NHS FitForTravel. For further information, please visit us at Travel Aware - Edwin Doran Sports Tours
The advice can change so check regularly for updates.
Covid-19 Testing Requirements
Depending on your destination certain testing requirements may be necessary before you leave the UK, at your destination and for returning to the UK from overseas
- We will monitor and update you on these details closer to your departure date as the requirements can and do change frequently
- Travelers are also expected to keep themselves up-to-date with entry and testing requirements for travel via Foreign travel advice - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- Current testing requirements for returning to the UK can be found here Travel abroad: step by step - GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
- It is the responsibility of each group to ensure they are fully prepared and we will assist as much as possible with this preparation
- We can assist in helping you make arrangements for any testing the costs related to all entry and exit requirements for COVID tests, vaccination and travel documentation are the responsibility of the customer.
Next steps
1. Face to face meeting
It's vital to meet the people who are going to be running your tour. I am personally available to come and speak through the whole tour with you face to face. This is the best way to get the tour exactly how you want it.
2. Tour Approval
Following quotation approval, if required we can provide you with the SMS Policies and help you in completing your Risk Assessments relating to your tour. We can also come along and run a presentation evening for you to launch the tour.
3. Launch your tour
The best way to do this is to organise an information evening, which we are more than happy to run for you. All our staff are very experienced presenters and will be able to get the best possible numbers for the tour, with H&S info, an outline of the itinerary, stories, pictures and video to really make the dream come alive.
4. Gather your booking deposits
It's best to do this as early as possible to avoid disappointment with hotel availability, flight allocations, and to get the best fixtures possible. It also helps us run a really smooth tour for you.
To book you need to to the following:
- Complete an online Booking form
- Send us your booking deposit
| Long haul tours | £500 |
(If flight costs have to be paid in full on booking, then more may be required at the outset)
Andrew Loughlin
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Phone: |
0161 491 6969 |
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Mobile: |
07802 356180 |
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Email address: |
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Twitter: |
@edwindoranandre |
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I’m a self-confessed sports nut, still playing rugby in my fifth decade. Originally from County Tyrone in Ireland, my sports degree from Cardiff set me on a career that seems to have taken me around the world 80 times. I head our northern office, based in Cheadle in Manchester, and work with some great folk both within the company and among the many sports people I have had the pleasure to meet over the years. Job satisfaction comes in many guises, whether it's seeing a red hot hockey team in Sydney, a school's cricket game in St Lucia, or the satisfaction of a rotund prop tell me his great billeting stories while on tour in Argentina, and asking, through his fatigued haze: “Why would anyone ever want to stay in a hotel?” Favourite touring destination South Africa – there’s so much variety in the sports, cultures and hospitality offered and it’s fabulous value. Favourite personal sporting moment Reaching the final of the Ulster Rugby Senior Schools Cup. Favourite moment at Edwin Doran Spending time in the Pacific Islands. |
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