Combine world-class rugby with an unforgettable African safari on this carefully timed 11-day South Africa Rugby & Safari Adventure.
Accommodation across South Africa is extremely limited during the rugby tour period in August and September, and safari availability that aligns with the match schedule is even harder to secure. To make planning easier, an exclusive allocation has been secured on a 5-day Drifters Kruger Safari that fits perfectly between the first two test matches in Johannesburg and Cape Town.
This unique journey blends the excitement of international rugby with the incredible wildlife and landscapes of South Africa. Travel from vibrant cities to the iconic wilderness of Kruger National Park, enjoying expertly guided experiences and seamless logistics throughout the journey.
With limited safari space available during this busy period, this itinerary represents one of the few options that aligns perfectly with the rugby schedule while offering excellent value.
South Africa Rugby & Safari Adventure
11 Days | Johannesburg to Cape Town
From NZ$7,780 per person twin share
Package Inclusions
Comfortable hotel accommodation in Johannesburg and Cape Town
Official Category B match tickets for two test matches (Johannesburg and Cape Town)
All transfers including match transfers
5-day Drifters Safari including Kruger National Park, a private reserve and the Panorama Route
Guided tours of Johannesburg, Soweto and Cape Town
Flight from Kruger to Cape Town
Journey Highlights
Experience the electric atmosphere of international rugby in two of South Africa’s most iconic cities before heading into the wilderness for a memorable safari adventure.
Explore the legendary Kruger National Park, search for the Big Five in private reserves, and discover the scenic landscapes of the Panorama Route, all while enjoying the perfect balance of sport, culture and wildlife.
Availability for safari departures during the rugby tour period is extremely limited, so early booking is strongly recommended.
Unique Journeys Designed to Sell
Looking for itineraries that stand out and are easy to position? These two Africa journeys offer strong storytelling angles, clear target audiences and memorable experiences that go beyond the expected.
Wings Over Uganda
10 Days | Gorilla Trekking, Safari & River Wildlife
A truly immersive African journey combining primate trekking with classic safari experiences across diverse landscapes.
Why it Works
Combines rainforest, savannah and river ecosystems
A well-rounded itinerary beyond traditional safaris
Strong appeal for travellers looking for something different
Best Suited For
Well-travelled explorers
Second-time Africa visitors
Those wanting depth and variety in one trip
Standout Experience
Gorilla and chimpanzee trekking paired with traditional game viewing and river wildlife encounters.
Expert Tip
Lower permit costs in low season (2027) make Uganda more accessible and appealing to a wider audience.
Zambia & Malawi: Bush & Beach
Safari & Lake Escape
A balanced itinerary blending wildlife-rich safari experiences with a relaxed lakeside finish.
Why it Works
Combines safari and beach-style relaxation
Seamless transition from adventure to unwind
Less crowded, more intimate experience
Best Suited For
First-time Africa travellers
Couples and honeymooners
Those wanting a mix of activity and relaxation
Standout Experience
Explore South Luangwa’s wildlife before unwinding along the shores of Lake Malawi.
Expert Tip
Position Lake Malawi as a unique alternative to Zanzibar, keeping the journey within one region while offering a more distinctive finish.
Start Planning
These itineraries are ideal for travellers seeking something beyond the traditional Africa experience, offering strong differentiation and compelling storytelling opportunities.
Planning a South America journey from New Zealand is now more flexible than ever, with expanded flight options into both Santiago and Buenos Aires. With direct services via LATAM Airlines and the introduction of China Eastern Airlines into Buenos Aires, it is now possible to better align itineraries with travel style, timing and preferred destinations.
This increased accessibility allows for more tailored journeys across South America, supported by proven itineraries designed to deliver a seamless travel experience.
Choosing the Right Starting Point
The entry point into South America plays a key role in shaping the overall journey.
Auckland to Santiago – LATAM Airlines
Approx. 11 hours
4 to 5 departures weekly
Strong network across South America
Best suited for itineraries focused on:
Chile
Peru
Ecuador
Galápagos Islands
Auckland to Buenos Aires – China Eastern Airlines
Approx. 12 hours
Twice weekly departures
New option for travellers
Best suited for itineraries focused on:
Argentina
Brazil
Signature South America Circle Tours
The Signature South America Circle remains a leading multi-country itinerary, designed to bring together the region’s most iconic destinations in one seamless journey.
Highlights include:
Iguazu Falls
Cusco and Machu Picchu
Rio de Janeiro
Buenos Aires
With two aligned starting points, these itineraries now offer greater flexibility while maintaining a proven structure.
Featured Itineraries
Signature Circle South America – Ex Buenos Aires
15 days
From NZD $13,900 per person twin share
Aligned with China Eastern Airlines’ Auckland to Buenos Aires route
Signature Circle South America – Ex Santiago
21 days
From NZD $17,141 per person twin share
Aligned with LATAM Airlines’ Auckland to Santiago route
Why Choose Signature Tours
These itineraries are designed to simplify the travel experience while maintaining depth and authenticity.
Included features:
Airport meet and greet with transfers
Handpicked accommodation in central locations
Balance of guided touring and free time
Selected meals
Efficient routing with no unnecessary backtracking
24/7 English-speaking local support
Each journey is supported by South America specialists, with the flexibility to tailor routing, accommodation and experiences to suit different travel preferences.
Call to Action
Explore South America with greater flexibility and secure a Signature itinerary designed to deliver a seamless and well-paced journey.
When most people think of an African safari, they picture game drives and the Big Five. While these iconic experiences remain a highlight, Africa offers so many more ways to connect with its landscapes, wildlife and cultures.
From tracking mountain gorillas through mist-covered forests to drifting quietly along Botswana's waterways, Africa's safari experiences are as diverse as the continent itself.
Understanding the different ways to safari can help create a journey that perfectly matches individual travel styles, interests and comfort levels.
Walking Safaris
For those wanting a deeper connection to the natural world, walking safaris offer a slower and more immersive perspective.
Rather than focusing solely on large wildlife sightings, walking safaris reveal the intricate details often missed from a vehicle. Learn to identify animal tracks, discover unique plant life and gain a greater understanding of the ecosystems that support Africa's remarkable wildlife.
Zambia is widely regarded as the birthplace of the walking safari, while northern Tanzania also offers exceptional guided walking experiences.
Walking safaris are suitable for travellers with a moderate level of fitness who enjoy spending time outdoors at a relaxed pace.
Gorilla Trekking
One of the world's most extraordinary wildlife encounters awaits in the forests of Rwanda and Uganda.
Coming face-to-face with endangered mountain gorillas in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience that few wildlife adventures can match.
Rwanda
Known for its luxury lodges and easier trekking conditions, Rwanda is an excellent choice for those seeking a premium gorilla trekking experience.
Uganda
Offering more affordable permit options and diverse wildlife experiences, Uganda provides excellent value for adventurous travellers.
Permits are limited and often sell out well in advance, making early booking essential.
Boat Safaris
Experience Africa from a completely different perspective.
Boat safaris allow travellers to glide silently along rivers, lakes and waterways while observing wildlife in a natural and undisturbed environment.
Spot hippos, crocodiles, elephants and an incredible variety of birdlife from the water while enjoying a slower pace of travel.
Destinations such as Botswana's Okavango Delta offer some of Africa's most memorable water-based safari experiences.
Many itineraries combine both land and water activities, providing the best of both worlds.
Rail Safaris
Luxury rail journeys combine the romance of classic train travel with Africa's spectacular landscapes.
Rather than travelling between destinations by road or small aircraft, rail safaris offer a relaxed and elegant way to explore remote regions while enjoying exceptional onboard comfort.
These journeys are ideal for travellers who value scenery, culture, history and comfort alongside wildlife experiences.
Rail safaris often include game drives and guided excursions throughout the journey, creating a seamless blend of luxury and adventure.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris
Watch the African wilderness come alive from above as the sun rises over the plains.
Hot air balloon safaris are among Africa's most iconic experiences and offer breathtaking views across landscapes teeming with wildlife.
Most popular in Kenya's Maasai Mara and Tanzania's Serengeti, these experiences are perfect for special occasions, milestone celebrations or travellers seeking something truly unforgettable.
Cultural Encounters
Africa's people and cultures are every bit as fascinating as its wildlife.
Many safari experiences now incorporate meaningful cultural encounters that provide a deeper understanding of local traditions, history and daily life.
Visit Maasai communities in Kenya and Tanzania, meet the Himba people of Namibia, or participate in locally guided experiences designed to support communities while creating authentic cultural connections.
These experiences add another layer of richness to an African journey and often become some of the most memorable moments of the trip.
Why Book Africa with Viva Expeditions?
Africa is one of the world's most rewarding destinations, and no two journeys are ever the same.
The Viva Expeditions team specialises in crafting tailor-made African itineraries, helping match the right experiences, destinations and styles of travel to create unforgettable adventures.
Whether you're dreaming of gorilla trekking, luxury rail journeys, wildlife safaris, cultural encounters or a combination of them all, expert advice can help bring the perfect African journey to life.
Introducing Discoverer
Explore some of South America's most remote and spectacular coastlines aboard Discoverer, a boutique expedition ship carrying just 140 guests.
Designed for immersive exploration, Discoverer combines comfort, adventure and expert-led experiences, making it the perfect introduction to expedition cruising. With all meals, shore excursions and port taxes included, these new South American voyages offer exceptional value, especially with a limited-time 30% launch discount available until 30 June 2026.
Why Travel on Discoverer?
Maximum 140 guests
Boutique expedition-style cruising
Zodiac shore landings and exploration
Outward-facing staterooms
Pool, jacuzzi, gym and sauna
Expert naturalist guides
Photography coach onboard
Citizen science programme
All meals included
Shore excursions included
Port taxes included
Deep Patagonia: Tierra del Fuego & Chilean Fjords
Ushuaia to Valparaíso
15 Days | 14 March – 28 March 2027
Experience one of the most comprehensive Patagonia expeditions available, cruising from the "End of the World" through the breathtaking wilderness of southern Chile.
Journey through remote fjords, dramatic coastlines and some of South America's most isolated communities while discovering incredible wildlife and landscapes.
Highlights
Zodiac exploration of Cape Horn and the Western Beagle Channel
Torres del Paine National Park excursion with lunch included
Visit remote indigenous communities including Puerto Edén and Caleta Tortel
Opportunities to see Magellanic penguins, whales, condors and albatross
Explore the UNESCO-listed wooden churches of Chiloé Island
Finish in the colourful coastal city of Valparaíso
Launch Offer
Was: NZD $17,312 per person
Now: NZD $12,119 per person
Save 30%
Twin share pricing based on a porthole stateroom.
Chile & Peru: Through the Humboldt Current
Valparaíso to Lima
10 Days | 28 March – 6 April 2027
Discover the remarkable landscapes where the Atacama Desert meets the Pacific Ocean.
This journey combines wildlife encounters, fascinating colonial history and some of South America's most striking coastal scenery.
Highlights
Explore the Atacama region
Visit Isla Pan de Azúcar and spot Humboldt penguins
Discover Peru's beautiful White City of Arequipa
Explore the coastal town of Paracas
Experience the rich cultures of Chile and Peru
Launch Offer
Was: NZD $11,955 per person
Now: NZD $8,369 per person
Save 30%
Twin share pricing based on a porthole stateroom.
South American Explorer: Temples, Jungles & Panama
Lima to Colón
10 Days | 6 April – 15 April 2027
Journey through South America's Pacific coastline before crossing one of the world's greatest engineering marvels.
This expedition blends ancient cultures, rainforest ecosystems and wildlife-rich national parks.
Highlights
Explore ancient Moche archaeological sites
Discover Ecuador's Machalilla forests
Visit Colombia's Utría National Park
Full daylight transit of the Panama Canal
Exceptional wildlife and birdlife encounters
Launch Offer
Was: NZD $11,955 per person
Now: NZD $8,369 per person
Save 30%
Twin share pricing based on a porthole stateroom.
Add a Machu Picchu Extension
These new expedition cruises pair perfectly with a Peru land journey.
Ask Shore Travel about adding a Machu Picchu extension to create a seamless South American adventure, including:
Hotels
Transfers
Guided touring
Pre- and post-cruise arrangements
Tailor-made extensions
Book by 30 June 2026
Take advantage of the 30% launch discount available across all three new expedition cruises.
Contact Shore Travel today to secure your preferred departure and start planning an unforgettable South American adventure.
Only 14 Guests | From $18,456 NZD Per Person
Hosted journeys continue to grow in popularity as travellers seek meaningful experiences, expert hosts and the opportunity to share unforgettable moments with like-minded people.
Combining one of the world's most extraordinary wildlife destinations with the company of respected New Zealand broadcaster Wendy Petrie, this exclusive hosted departure offers a unique way to experience the Galápagos Islands.
With just 14 guests and only seven cabins available, this intimate journey combines seven nights exploring the Galápagos aboard a luxury trimaran with time discovering the cultural treasures of Quito, Ecuador's captivating capital.
Travel with Wendy Petrie
Known for her warmth, curiosity and passion for travel, Wendy Petrie will host this special departure, sharing the experience alongside fellow travellers as she visits the Galápagos Islands for the very first time.
This journey offers the opportunity to:
Travel with a well-known New Zealand personality
Enjoy a relaxed and social small-group atmosphere
Connect with like-minded travellers
Share extraordinary experiences and discoveries together
Explore one of the world's most remarkable wildlife destinations
Journey Highlights
Incredible Wildlife Encounters
The Galápagos Islands are famous for wildlife found nowhere else on Earth.
Highlights may include:
Swimming alongside playful sea lions
Observing blue-footed boobies up close
Spotting giant tortoises in their natural habitat
Encountering marine iguanas
Watching diverse birdlife and marine species
One of the most remarkable aspects of the Galápagos is the wildlife's lack of fear of humans, creating exceptional viewing and photography opportunities.
Spectacular Landscapes
Explore a diverse range of unique environments, including:
White coral beaches
Green-sand beaches
Ancient lava tunnels
Volcanic landscapes
Giant prickly pear cactus forests
Remote islands and secluded bays
Expert Naturalist Guides
Throughout the voyage, experienced naturalist guides will provide fascinating insights into the islands' ecology, wildlife and conservation efforts, enriching every shore excursion and wildlife encounter.
Discover Quito
Before heading to the Galápagos, spend time exploring Quito, one of South America's most beautiful cities.
Highlights include:
UNESCO World Heritage-listed Old Town
Colonial architecture
Historic churches and plazas
Rich Ecuadorian culture and history
Stunning Andean surroundings
The Galápagos Horizon Trimaran
This exclusive journey takes place aboard the Galápagos Horizon, the only trimaran currently operating in the Galápagos Islands.
Designed for comfort, stability and immersive exploration, the vessel offers:
Capacity for just 14 guests
Seven elegant cabins
Private balconies in every cabin
Modern lounge and bar
Al fresco dining areas
Spacious solarium
Jacuzzi with panoramic views
Exceptional wildlife viewing opportunities
The small size of the vessel allows access to many of the islands' most spectacular locations while maintaining a highly personalised onboard experience.
Who Is This Journey Perfect For?
This hosted departure is ideal for travellers who:
Are approximately 50–70 years of age
Are well-travelled and seeking something different
Enjoy small-group experiences
Value comfort and service
Have a strong interest in wildlife and nature
Are looking beyond traditional European destinations
Enjoy meeting like-minded travellers
Appreciate expert guidance and hosted experiences
With private transfers, local guides and English-speaking support throughout, this itinerary makes exploring South America simple, comfortable and rewarding.
Departure Details
Destination: Ecuador & Galápagos Islands
Departure: June 2027
Group Size: Maximum 14 guests
Accommodation: Luxury Galápagos Horizon Trimaran
Price: From $18,456 NZD per person
Limited Availability
With only seven cabins available and strong demand for both hosted journeys and Galápagos travel, early booking is highly recommended.
Contact Shore Travel today to secure your place on this exclusive Hosted Galápagos Journey with Wendy Petrie.
Embark on a unique voyage through the Amazon in Ecuador, home of the legendary pink river dolphin and other wondrous wildlife. When you enter the Ecuadorian Amazon, you are entering a world that few people have the opportunity to experience. The smells, sounds, and tastes are all different. Of course, so are the cultures that live within the communities.
Viva's Best Bits...
Duration: 5 days
Price from $6,453 NZD Per person, sharing
Explore an array of exclusive travel deals and special offers curated to spark your wanderlust. Our Destination Specialists stand ready to craft your dream adventure to our most extraordinary destinations: Latin America, Antarctica, the Arctic, and the vast expanse of Africa.
Why settle for ordinary when your next trip could be extraordinary? Start planning your ultimate adventure today with the incredible deals below:
Antarctica & the Arctic
13 days
Antarctica Basecamp
A huge array of activities are included. Try out camping in Antarctica, kayaking, snowshoe/hiking, mountaineering and a photo workshop
From $17,018pp NZD
10 days
Arctic Adventure: Hosted Svalbard Explorer 2025
Explore the wildlife and landscapes of Spitsbergen, the largest island of the Svalbard archipelago; home of the polar bear, walrus, and few people!
From $18,704pp NZD
11 days
Classic Antarctica
Offering the ultimate taste of the white continent. Embark on this small ship with only 88 passengers & discover classic Antarctic highlights
From $11,912pp NZD Based on a Triple Share Cabin
Latin America Itineraries
5 days
Galapagos: Seaman Journey
A great taste of the Galapagos, spend 5 days on the Seaman Journey, exploring the Southern and Central Islands.
From $9,253 NZD Per Person
8 days
Galapagos: Archipel
This 8-day cruise aboard the catamaran Archipel I gives you an extensive overview of the Galapagos Islands.
From $9,035 NZD Per Person
11 days
Signature Galapagos Islands
Explore the Galapagos Islands aboard a luxury catamaran, where lizards swim and tortoises roam. Includes a five-star stay in Quito's charming old town.
From $13,269 NZD Per Person
Africa Safaris & Tours
12 days
Kenya and Tanzania Wildlife Safari: Small Group
Small Group Camping Tour With Upgrade Options. Highlights include Masai Mara, Great Rift Valley, Hells Gate, Serengeti & Ngorongoro Crater.
From $6,664 NZD Per Person
13 days
Uganda Wildlife Explorer: Small Group
Small Group Camping Tour with Upgrade Options - The best of Uganda's national parks & wildlife, from gorilla trekking to tree-climbing lions.
From $5,414 NZD Per Person
Many More Tours, Get in Touch With Us!
Signature Tours - Premium itineraries carefully crafted by destination experts. Take in the very best of South America and Central America, with highly-rated hotels and exclusive authentic experiences.
Luxury - Viva design unique luxury holidays and experiences that allow you to experience the most spectacular and remote parts of the Southern Hemisphere. Choose from the best hotels and lodges, luxury small ship cruises, enjoy one of their exclusive Heli-tours.
Southern Lights - Witness the world most spectacular lightshow on Earth, the Aurora Australis! Check out their Southern Lights tours including best seller the Southern Lights by Flight departing Christchurch, New Zealand.
Small Group Tours - Embark on a fully escorted small group tour to discover the stunning continents of South America, Antarctica and New Zealand. A group tour gives you the opportunity to explore in a fun and exciting environment surrounded by like-minded travellers.
Heli Tours - Take to the skies and soar over New Zealand’s & Antarctica's spectacular landscapes. On one of Viva's New Zealand Heli-tours you can access some of the most remote and un-spoilt parts of the country. Or fly over vast expanses of snow and ice in Antarctica!
Walking and Active - Viva walking and active tours are perfect for people who love the outdoors and enjoy being close to nature. Hike some of the world most beautiful trails, kayak with whales, dolphins and other marine wildlife, Heli-skiing or Heli-fishing.
Wildlife and Nature - Viva wildlife and nature holidays will take you to some of the most remote and unspoilt regions in the Southern Hemisphere. Discover rich exotic wildlife in Latin America, magnificent marine wildlife in Antarctica and spot spectacular birds in New Zealand.
Food and Wine - Both Latin America & New Zealand offer some of the worlds freshest and finest cuisine and they are two of the best wine-producing regions on earth where you’ll find cellar doors open for tasting and lovely vineyard restaurants in abundance.
Off the Beaten Track - Get away from the crowds and explore some of the most unspoilt regions on earth. Experience the landscapes and cultures as are and as they have been for centuries.
Cultural Experiences - Experiencing life within a foreign culture, rather than from the outside as a traveller, is the true meaning of cultural travel. Viva wants to give you the opportunity to immerse yourself in the destinations you visit, to understand its people and its history.
Family and Friends - Take a trip with your friends or bring the whole family to explore on a child-friendly adventure.
Price from
twin share
Dates
Depart:
22 November 2026
Return:
10 April 2026