- Overview
- Tour
- Hotels
Enjoy a cricketing holiday in South Africa and watch all 3 Test Matches with the opportunity to enjoy a safari and a visit to Victoria Falls, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Guests of Black Opal will enjoy many exclusives on this hosted tour, where they will be joined by former cricketers including Gladstone Small and David Gower. Exclusive welcome functions will help you settle in at each venue, whilst during the Test Series there will be evenings of analysis from your hosts and special guests. Our signature 'Digest the Test' dinners will be the perfect end to your time in South Africa.
Alternatively, should you wish to explore independently elsewhere in South Africa, the Black Opal team will be happy to prepare a bespoke itinerary for you.
To give you maximum flexibility, flights are currently excluded. If you would like us to handle your travel arrangements, we can provide a bespoke quote for your preferred airline and departure point.
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Black Opal Travel Group, a Cricket South Africa Licensed Travel Operator for the South Africa vs England Series.
Prices from £13,175 per person based on double occupancy accommodation
Single supplement from £6,540
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Overnight flight from UK to Johannesburg.
To give you maximum flexibility, flights are currently excluded from this quotation. If you would like us to handle your travel arrangements, we can provide a bespoke quote for your preferred airline and departure point.
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On arrival in Johannesburg you will be met by a Black Opal Representative and assisted to your onward private transfer to the hotel.
This evening enjoy our welcome function, a perfect opportunity to meet your hosts and fellow travellers.
Accommodation: 6-nights at The Marriott Melrose Arch, Johannesburg in a Wonderful Room (Bed & Breakfast and Club Lounge Access)
Located in the secure, pedestrianised Melrose Arch precinct, the Johannesburg Marriott Hotel offers a safe "city-within-a-city" experience with direct access to high-end boutiques and al fresco dining. This sophisticated retreat features modern suites, a tranquil outdoor pool, and a state-of-the-art fitness centre, providing a seamless and stylish base in the heart of the city.
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The 1st South Africa vs England Test takes place at The DP World Wanderers Stadium, Johannesburg. Roundtrip stadium transfers are included on each day of the Test Match.
Highlights during your stay include:
- Welcome Function including selected drinks and canapés
- ‘STUMPS’ event following close of play on the second day
- ‘Digest the Test’ dinner
Test Match ticket prices are not included and will be passed on at cost once finalised by CSA.
Hospitality Options will be available.
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Make the most of your down time between the first and second Tests of the 26/27 SA vs England Series. Our experts have hand-crafted two hosted extension options; you can choose to explore Sun City, or head to Qwabi Private Game Reserve.
Extension Option 1 - Palace of the Lost City, Sun City, 2 nights
Inspired by the legend of a lost African kingdom, this world-renowned retreat is set within the rugged beauty of an ancient volcanic crater. It serves as a premier destination for golf enthusiasts, offering direct access to two legendary Gary Player-designed courses, including the famous 13th hole where Nile crocodiles guard the green. Beyond the fairways, guests can explore botanical gardens and cascading waterfalls or venture into the neighbouring Pilanesberg National Park for a safari.
Extension Option 2 - BABOHI, Qwabi Private Game Reserve, 2 nights
Experience the height of modern safari luxury at BABOHI Lodge, an exclusive adults-only sanctuary nestled within the 11,000-hectare Qwabi Private Game Reserve. This sophisticated retreat blends world-class Big Five viewing with gourmet "bush-style" fine dining and private suites featuring plunge pools complemented by panoramic views of the surrounds.
(Tour price currently based on Sun City option)
Accommodation: The Palace of the Lost City at Sun City, Babohi at Qwabi Private Game Reserve
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After breakfast we travel by road to Pretoria ahead of the start of the Second Test. This evening you are invited to join your fellow travellers for welcome drinks.
Accommodation: 7-nights at Irene Country Hotel, Pretoria in a Lake View Room (Bed & Breakfast)
Set among shaded, mature gardens and overlooking a tranquil lake, the hotel offers a refined escape with a distinct country-farm feel. We have selected this property specifically for its prime location near the SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium, ensuring you are perfectly positioned for the Test match while staying in a peaceful, natural environment. Between days at the cricket, you can enjoy the award-winning facilities of the Camdeboo Day Spa or a quiet stroll through the grounds.
Accommodation: Irene Country Hotel
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Today, we gather for a magnificent Christmas Lunch at The Saxon, a world-renowned sanctuary of luxury set within ten acres of lush, indigenous gardens. Originally a private residence—and famously where Nelson Mandela completed his autobiography—The Saxon is celebrated for its impeccable service, extensive contemporary African art collection, and its peaceful, park-like atmosphere in the heart of Sandhurst.
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The 2nd South Africa vs England Test takes place at SuperSport Park Cricket Stadium, Pretoria. Roundtrip stadium transfers are included on each day of the Test Match.
Highlights during your stay include:
- Welcome Function including selected drinks and canapés
- ‘STUMPS’ event following close of play on the second day
- ‘Digest the Test’ dinner
Test Match ticket prices are not included and will be passed on at cost once finalised by CSA.
Hospitality Options will be available.
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This morning, you will be transferred to the airport in time for your flight to Cape Town.
Upon arrival you will continue your journey into the heart of the Cape Winelands as we travel to Franschhoek. Often referred to as the "French Corner" of the region, this historic town is celebrated as South Africa’s culinary capital. Nestled within a dramatic mountain amphitheatre, Franschhoek combines centuries-old vineyards and Cape Dutch architecture with world-class galleries and boutique shopping, offering a sophisticated and tranquil start to your stay.
Accommodation: 3-nights at Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa in a Deluxe Room, Bed & Breakfast
As the sun sets on the final day of the year, you are invited to an exclusive Black Opal New Year’s Eve Gala Dinner. This curated evening begins with a glass of crisp local MCC (Méthode Cap Classique) as you soak in the twilight views of the surrounding mountains. The celebration unfolds with a masterfully prepared sit-down meal, showcasing the very best of Franschhoek seasonal terroir, perfectly paired with world-class wines.
Throughout the night, live entertainment will set a vibrant atmosphere, leading to a jubilant countdown as we toast to the arrival of the New Year under the starlit Cape sky.
Accommodation: Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa
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The day is yours to enjoy at a relaxed pace. Take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of the estate; perhaps spend a tranquil morning by the sparkling swimming pool or enjoy a spirited match on the tennis courts.
Alternatively, you may wish to venture into the valley to experience the iconic Franschhoek Wine Tram. This charming journey offers a unique way to discover the region’s most prestigious estates, allowing you to hop between world-class tasting rooms while soaking in the breathtaking vineyard scenery.
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Your late-morning begins with a private wine tasting at a Franschhoek Wine Estate, where you will be guided through a selection of the region’s most celebrated vintages. This curated tasting transitions seamlessly into a distinguished Eve of Test lunch.
Set against a backdrop of rolling vineyards and dramatic mountain peaks, the afternoon offers the perfect opportunity to soak in the pre-match atmosphere.
Savour a masterfully prepared menu featuring local seasonal specialities, all while enjoying the company of fellow enthusiasts in the lead-up to the big event.
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Following an early breakfast, you will be transferred to the historic Newlands Stadium, arriving in good time for the toss and the highly anticipated commencement of the Third and final Test match.
Accommodation: 6-nights at Intercontinental Table Bay, Cape Town in a King Classic Table Mountain (Bed & Breakfast)
This 5-star landmark is arguably the most prestigious address within the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront. Originally opened by Nelson Mandela in 1997, the property occupies a commanding position on the water’s edge, acting as a sophisticated bridge between the historic working harbour and the high-end energy of the city's premier shopping and dining district.
Accommodation: Intercontinental Table Bay
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The 3rd South Africa vs England Test takes place at Newlands Cricket Stadium, Cape Town. Roundtrip stadium transfers are included on each day of the Test Match.
Highlights during your stay include:
- Welcome Function including selected drinks and canapés
- ‘STUMPS’ event following close of play on the second day
- ‘Digest the Test’ dinner
Test Match ticket prices are not included and will be passed on at cost once finalised by CSA.
Hospitality Options will be available.
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Enjoy a day at leisure to discover the vibrant heart of the Mother City. Whether you choose to take the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain, explore the historic V&A Waterfront, or wander through the colourful streets of Bo-Kaap, the city offers an endless array of experiences
This evening, enjoy our "Digest The Test" event with your hosts and fellow travellers
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Today you will be transferred to Cape Town in time for your return flight home.
Alternatively, extend your tour with our extension options to cover the ODI in Paarl, Safari or Victoria Falls Extension options.
Our hand-picked luxury accommodation
At Black Opal, we know our clients want the very best accommodation to accompany their luxury sports travel experience. That’s why we endeavour to secure the very best accommodation available within convenient proximity to your chosen event. Our recommendations are below, but should you wish to stay elsewhere simply give us a call on 0330 041 4888 or contact us online.
