South Africa Luxury Cricket & Safari Experience 2026

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About this tour

Experience the thrill of Test cricket between Australia and South Africa, combined with a private game reserve safari and the celebrated Cape Winelands — a once-in-a-lifetime sporting journey only MCC Members’ Tours can deliver.

Join the Melbourne Cricket Club on a 21-day small group tour through South Africa’s Eastern Cape, Stellenbosch, Franschhoek and Cape Town, culminating in two unforgettable Test matches at St George’s Park and Newlands Cricket Ground. This is Australia’s first Test tour of South Africa since 2018 — and the most immersive way to experience it.

Your journey begins with a private safari at the malaria-free Kariega Game Reserve, where three nights of guided game drives, river cruises and bush dining offer an intimate encounter with Africa’s most iconic wildlife. From there, travel to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) for the 2nd Test at the historic St George’s Park, before continuing to the Cape Winelands for three nights in the heart of Stellenbosch — including a day excursion to Franschhoek, South Africa’s food and wine capital. The tour concludes with six nights in Cape Town, where the 3rd Test at the magnificent Newlands Cricket Ground is complemented by a Cape Peninsula excursion, Table Mountain, evening dining at the V&A Waterfront and Kloof Street, and a Farewell Dinner to close the tour.

TOUR HIGHLIGHTS

  • Exclusive small group of MCC Members and partners (approx. 20 guests)
  • 21 days/18 nights with daily breakfast
  • Return flights ex Melbourne with Singapore Airlines
  • Internal domestic flights and all transport
  • 3-night private safari at Kariega Game Reserve with all meals and 5 game drives
  • Welcome Boma Dinner at Kariega and Farewell Dinner in Cape Town
  • 2nd Test at St George’s Park and 3rd Test at Newlands Cricket Ground (tickets purchased separately)
  • Franschhoek Winelands excursion with wine tasting and gourmet lunch
  • Cape Peninsula excursion via Chapman’s Peak with lunch at Kalk Bay
  • Table Mountain cable car experience
  • MCC Tour Host and Events Travel Tour Manager throughout
  • A balance of guided touring, Test cricket and free time to explore at leisure
  • Personalise your trip: extra nights, extensions, flight upgrades and travel insurance

Departing Melbourne in South African spring — the most beautiful time of year — this is a rare chance to combine world-class cricket with one of the world’s most exciting destinations.

Enquire now or get in touch to secure your place on this exclusive MCC Members’ Tour.

LIMITED AVAILABILITY

EARLY BIRD TO 31 MAY 2026

What's included?
  • Return group flights from Melbourne to South Africa with Singapore Airlines: Economy Class including checked luggage (23kg per person)
    • Outbound: Monday, 12 October 2026, via Singapore and Johannesburg to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
    • Return: Sunday, 1 November 2026, Cape Town via Johannesburg and Singapore to Melbourne, arriving Monday, 2 November 2026
  • Domestic flight from Johannesburg to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) on arrival including checked luggage (20kg per person)
  • Domestic flight from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) to Cape Town mid tour including checked luggage (20kg per person)
  • Group airport transfers on arrival in Gqeberha and departure from Cape Town
  • 1 night’s accommodation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Port Elizabeth (4-star beachfront hotel):
    • Check-in: Tuesday, 13 October 2026
    • Check-out: Wednesday, 14 October 2026
  • 3 nights’ accommodation at Kariega Game Reserve (private, malaria-free safari reserve):
    • Check-in: Wednesday, 14 October 2026
    • Check-out: Saturday, 17 October 2026
    • Lodge options: Main Lodge Chalet, Ukhozi Lodge, River Lodge, or Settlers Drift Luxury Tent
  • 5 nights’ accommodation at Radisson Blu Hotel, Port Elizabeth (4-star beachfront hotel):
    • Check-in: Saturday, 17 October 2026
    • Check-out: Friday, 23 October 2026
  • 3 nights’ accommodation at Oude Werf Hotel, Stellenbosch (4-star heritage hotel): Check-in:
    • Friday, 23 October 2026
    • Check-out: Monday, 26 October 2026
  • 6 nights’ accommodation at The Vineyard Hotel, Newlands (4-star):
    • Check-in: Monday, 26 October 2026
    • Check-out: Sunday, 1 November 2026
  • Daily breakfast included throughout (18 nights)
  • All meals included at Kariega Game Reserve (3 days — breakfast, lunch, dinner and sundowners)
  • 5 guided game drives at Kariega Game Reserve (morning and evening drives)
  • River cruise at Kariega Game Reserve
  • Welcome Boma Dinner under the stars at Kariega Main Lodge
  • Access to official cricket tickets — best available reserved seating (tickets sold separately):
    • 2nd Test: Australia v South Africa at St George’s Park, Gqeberha — 5 days, 18–22 October 2026*
    • 3rd Test: Australia v South Africa at Newlands Cricket Ground, Cape Town — 5 days, 27–31 October 2026*
  • Franschhoek Winelands excursion with local guide, wine tasting and gourmet lunch, Saturday, 24 October 2026
  • Cape Peninsula excursion via Chapman’s Peak with lunch at Kalk Bay
  • Group lunch at the Kelvin Grove Club, adjacent to Newlands Cricket Ground
  • Table Mountain cable car experience (weather permitting)
  • Evening group transfers to the V&A Waterfront (two evenings) and Kloof Street (one evening) dining precincts
  • Farewell Dinner, Saturday, 31 October 2026
  • Group transport throughout with professional drivers, including all touring, match days and excursions
  • Free leisure time in Gqeberha, Stellenbosch and Cape Town
  • Pre-tour information night at the MCG, including food and drinks
  • MCC Merchandise
  • Events Travel Welcome Pack:
    • Game Day Tote Bag
    • Luggage Tags
    • Luggage Strap
  • Personalised booking support from our expert reservations team
  • MCC Tour Host throughout
  • Dedicated onsite assistance from an Events Travel Tour Manager
  • Gratuities included
  • All booking fees and taxes included
Prices are per person in AUD with all listed inclusions.
OCCUPANCYPRICE
Staying in a 3 Bedroom Chalet with private ensuites at the Main Lodge at Kariega (no international flights)
Double/twin (no international flights)$12,388
Single (no international flights)$20,358
Staying in a 3 Bedroom Chalet with private ensuites at the Main Lodge at Kariega
Double/twin$15,048
Single$22,098
Staying at River Lodge or Ukhozi Lodge at Kariega
Double/twin+$688
SingleOn request
Staying in a Luxury Safari Tent at Settlers Drift at Kariega
Double/twin+$1,978
SingleOn request
Due to limited availability across Kariega’s intimate safari camps, Members will be accommodated across different lodge areas within the reserve for the 3-night safari stay. The group will come together regularly during daily game drives and at the Welcome Boma Dinner.
Due to limited accommodation at Kariega Game Reserve, solo travellers will be allocated to the 3 Bedroom Chalet cluster at the Main Lodge as a priority. Single places are limited and your preferred lodge option may not always be available.
A single room includes one bed for one person; a double room includes one bed for two people; and a twin room features two separate beds for two people. Triple, quad, and family room options are available at select properties, with bedding configurations varying by hotel and room category.
Prices and availability are subject to change without notice. We accept payments in AUD, USD, GBP, EUR, or NZD upon request, with exchange rates applied at the time of payment.

Test cricket tickets

Match tickets are not included in the base tour cost and are purchased separately. When booking your tour, please nominate which days you wish to attend at either Test and we will arrange your tickets directly with the venues on your behalf.

Tickets are estimated at approximately A$55 per day for the best available seats. If pricing varies, you will be advised accordingly. Once placed, ticket orders are final.

Reciprocal arrangements may apply via the MCC for Newlands Cricket Ground — you will be updated as soon as further details are confirmed, prior to finalising your ticket order.

Game drives at Kariega Game Reserve

Five game drives are included in your 3-night safari experience at Kariega Game Reserve. We recommend at least one morning and one evening drive as a minimum — most guests choose to do as many as possible to maximise their chances of encountering the Big Five and the reserve’s remarkable wildlife.

  • Evening drive — Day 1 (arrival day)
  • Morning drive — Day 2
  • Evening drive — Day 2
  • Morning drive — Day 3
  • Evening drive — Day 3

Accommodation at Kariega Game Reserve

Due to limited availability across Kariega’s intimate safari camps, Members will be accommodated across different lodge areas within the reserve for the 3-night safari stay. The group will come together regularly during daily game drives and at the Welcome Boma Dinner.

Solo travellers will be allocated to the 3 Bedroom Chalet cluster at the Main Lodge as a priority. Single places are limited and your preferred lodge option may not always be available.

Tour Manager

All small group tours are accompanied by a Tour Manager, who are there to assist with day-to-day activities and provide on-site support throughout the journey. A professional driver operates all group transport unless specified otherwise.

Health and fitness requirements

A good level of health and moderate fitness are required to fully enjoy this tour. Activities may include walking significant distances, boarding coaches, navigating uneven surfaces, and visiting attractions, event venues or stadiums. If you have accessibility needs or health concerns, please speak with our team prior to booking so we can advise on suitability and, where possible, make special arrangements in advance.

Travellers acknowledge that neither Events Travel nor its suppliers can provide medical or mobility assistance if you are unable to participate in part or all of the tour due to your health or physical condition. Events Travel will not be liable for any loss, damage, expense, injury, or death arising from such circumstances.

Leisure time and optional activities

Our itineraries balance guided experiences with free time, allowing you to explore destinations at your own pace or enjoy hotel facilities at leisure. If you wish to arrange additional sightseeing or activities, our team can assist when booking, or your Tour Manager can provide recommendations during the trip. Some experiences may sell out well in advance, so we encourage booking optional activities as early as possible. We recommend securing extras soon after making your booking, and we can provide pricing, recommendations and booking links.

What’s not included

  • Cricket tickets (see section above)
  • Pre or post-tour accommodation, airport transfers or other travel services unless specifically listed in the inclusions (quotes available on request)
  • Travel insurance (strongly recommended; quotes available on request for Australian residents or those travelling to Australia)
  • Meals and beverages not specified in the inclusions or itinerary
  • Hotel incidentals (e.g. mini-bar, laundry, personal expenses)
  • Entry visa or other documentation required for entry to the countries visited (instructions will be provided in your travel documents)

Dress code

  • Day-to-day: relaxed and comfortable clothing suitable for travel and sightseeing
  • Evenings and hospitality: smart casual attire for included dinners or hospitality events
  • Special requirements: some activities or venues may impose additional dress codes, which will be advised in advance in your FAQs, travel documents and/or itinerary notes

Hotels

Many hotels are set within historic or boutique buildings. This often adds charm and character but can also mean that rooms vary in size, shape and layout — even within the same category. Features such as air conditioning, elevators, and modern amenities may be limited or differ between hotels. If you have specific requirements, please let us know prior to booking so we can advise on the most suitable options.

Itinerary changes

The tour itinerary remains subject to change due to operational requirements, weather, venue availability, or other circumstances beyond our control. While every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as described, Events Travel reserves the right to amend, substitute, or vary the order of activities without prior notice to ensure the best possible tour experience.

Hotel changes

Hotel information, descriptions and images are provided for reference only and are sourced from official hotel websites or suppliers. Amenities, facilities and features are subject to change without notice. All hotels are subject to confirmation in the final itinerary. If a listed property becomes unavailable, a hotel of an equivalent or higher standard will be offered in its place (“or similar”). In the rare instance that a lower standard property is provided, a price reduction will apply.

Minimum departure numbers

All tours are subject to a minimum number of passengers to proceed. The required minimum will vary depending on the tour and is determined by Events Travel in its sole discretion.

If minimum numbers are not met by a specified cut-off date, Events Travel reserves the right to cancel the tour. In such circumstances, affected customers will be notified in writing and offered the following options:

  • A full refund of monies paid for the tour component; or
  • Transfer to an alternative tour or package of equal or lesser value (subject to availability); or
  • Proceed with a revised or self-guided package itinerary, where feasible and agreed upon in writing.

Important notice: Do not make any non-refundable or non-changeable travel arrangements (including flights, accommodation or other services) until Events Travel has confirmed that the tour has reached minimum numbers and is proceeding as scheduled. Events Travel will not be liable for any losses, costs or expenses (including cancellation or change fees) you incur as a result of a tour being cancelled, rescheduled or materially altered due to minimum numbers not being met.

This clause operates in addition to your rights under Australian Consumer Law. Where applicable, refunds will be made in line with your statutory entitlements.

Every journey is different. With more than 30 years of experience, our team can tailor your trip with flexible services and extras, designing the perfect itinerary and sourcing the best available rates and options using our experience and networks, tailored to your preferences and trip. Many guests choose to extend their trip beyond the event itself, combining their experience with a broader holiday, whether it’s a few extra days, a few weeks or a stopover.

Available services include:

  • Extra nights at featured hotels or alternative accommodation, with our team securing the best available rates including price matching
  • Domestic and international flights with route and fare recommendation
  • Airport transfers, car rental, train tickets and other local transport solutions
  • Cruises and multi-day tours
  • Tickets to attractions, activities and guided sightseeing experiences
  • Tailored travel insurance with Cover-More and Go Insurance
  • Extensions to other destinations with complete itineraries and personalised recommendations

Start planning today — enquire now for a personalised quote and speak to our expert travel team.

The default currency for this event is AUD (A$). We accept AUD, USD, GBP, EUR and NZD on request.

  • A deposit of 30% is due to confirm your booking, plus any ticket upgrades and extras*.
  • The balance of 70% is due by 14 July 2026^.
If your booking includes extra services, alternative payment terms may apply. Specific details will be outlined during the quoting process. Bookings made after the balance due date require full payment upfront unless otherwise agreed in writing.

How to make payment

Your invoice will include instructions for payment via direct bank transfer (EFT) or secure online credit/debit card payment. Each invoice contains a Pay Now link directing you to a secure payment portal for quick and easy card payments.

How to pay in other currencies

Invoices can be issued and paid in AUD, USD, GBP, EUR or NZD. If you would like to pay in a different currency to the default currency for this event, please contact our team to request an updated invoice. The total will be converted at the best available mid-market exchange rate, with updated payment instructions provided.

Payments in AUD

  • Direct Transfer (EFT): No additional fees
  • Visa or Mastercard: 1.70% merchant fee
  • American Express: 1.98% merchant fee

Payments in USD, GBP, EUR or NZD

  • Direct Transfer (EFT): No additional fees
  • Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Google Pay, Apple Pay: 1.98% merchant fee

If you have any questions about this product or need assistance with your booking, our team is here to help.

Please email us at res@events.com.au or call us on +61 3 5989 7666.

STATUS
NEW
STARTING FROM
A$12,388
EVENT CURRENCY
$ AUD
WHY EVENTS TRAVEL
Need help?

Call our team on +613 5989 7666 or email res@events.com.au — we're ready!

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Itinerary

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Day 1 — Mon, 12 Oct · Depart Melbourne

Depart Melbourne this afternoon on Singapore Airlines via Singapore and Johannesburg, arriving in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) the following day.

Stay: —
Meals: In flight

Arrive at Chief Dawid Stuurman International Airport via Johannesburg. Meet your Events Travel Tour Manager in the Arrivals Hall and transfer to your beachfront hotel. This evening is at your leisure.

Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, Port Elizabeth (4-star)
Meals: —

Transfer by coach to Kariega Game Reserve — a private, malaria-free Big Five safari destination spanning 12,000 hectares of Eastern Cape bushveld. Check in to your lodge and settle in before your first evening game drive and sundowners.

Stay: Kariega Game Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner and sundowners

Two full days on safari with morning and evening game drives included. Between drives, relax at the lodge, take a river cruise, or simply enjoy the bush setting. On one evening, the group comes together for a Welcome Boma Dinner under the stars.

Stay: Kariega Game Reserve
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner and sundowners

Transfer from Kariega back to Gqeberha. Check in to the Radisson Blu Hotel — your base for the 2nd Test. The afternoon and evening are at your leisure to explore the beachfront and the city.

Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, Port Elizabeth (4-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Five days of Test cricket at one of South Africa’s oldest and most cherished venues, known for its lively pitches, coastal winds and intimate atmosphere. Between sessions, the afternoon and evening are yours to explore the city at your own pace.

Stay: Radisson Blu Hotel, Port Elizabeth (4-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Fly from Gqeberha to Cape Town and transfer to the heart of the Cape Winelands. Check in to the elegant Oude Werf Hotel — one of the oldest continuously operating hotels in South Africa. Stroll the oak-lined streets of Stellenbosch and settle in for a relaxed evening.

Stay: Oude Werf Hotel, Stellenbosch (4-star)
Meals: Breakfast

A guided group excursion to the village of Franschhoek — South Africa’s food and wine capital. Visit world-class wine estates, explore the village, and enjoy a gourmet lunch in one of the region’s finest settings before returning to Stellenbosch.

Stay: Oude Werf Hotel, Stellenbosch (4-star)
Meals: Breakfast

A free day to explore Stellenbosch at your own pace — galleries, boutique shops, wine tastings and the local food scene. Your Tour Manager is available for recommendations and bookings.

Stay: Oude Werf Hotel, Stellenbosch (4-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Transfer to Cape Town — one of the world’s most scenic cities, set between Table Mountain and the Atlantic Ocean. Check in to The Vineyard Hotel in the leafy suburb of Newlands, surrounded by expansive gardens along the Liesbeek River and minutes from Newlands Cricket Ground.

Stay: The Vineyard Hotel, Newlands (4-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Five days of Test cricket at one of the most beautiful and atmospheric venues in world cricket, framed by Table Mountain and Devil’s Peak. During your stay in Cape Town, the following group experiences are arranged:

  • Group lunch at the Kelvin Grove Club, adjacent to Newlands Cricket Ground
  • Cape Peninsula excursion via Chapman’s Peak with lunch at Kalk Bay
  • Table Mountain cable car experience (weather permitting)
  • Evening group transfers to the V&A Waterfront and Kloof Street dining precincts
  • Farewell Dinner on the final evening, Saturday, 31 October

Stay: The Vineyard Hotel, Newlands (4-star)
Meals: Breakfast

Enjoy a final breakfast at the hotel before transferring to Cape Town International Airport. Depart on Singapore Airlines via Johannesburg and Singapore, arriving in Melbourne on Monday, 2 November.

Meals: Breakfast

The tour itinerary remains subject to change due to operational requirements, weather, venue availability, or other circumstances beyond our control. While every effort will be made to follow the itinerary as described, Events Travel reserves the right to amend, substitute, or vary the order of activities without prior notice to ensure the best possible tour experience.

Hotels

See what hotels this tour will be enjoying. Room upgrades and more details may be available on request.

Hotel information, descriptions, and images are provided for reference only and are sourced from official hotel websites or suppliers. Amenities, facilities, and features are subject to change without notice. For the most up-to-date information, please refer directly to the hotel’s official website or contact our team. All hotels are subject to change in the final itinerary; if a listed hotel becomes unavailable, a hotel of an equivalent or higher standard will be offered in its place (“or similar”).

Start your journey today

It’s time to secure your place on this exclusive MCC Members’ Tour.

Start your journey.

Let us know a few details and one of our travel experts will reply personally — typically within one business day.

Need help? Call our team on +613 5989 7666 or email res@events.com.au — we're ready to assist.

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