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Gullivers Sports Travel is an Official Sub-Agent of The British & Irish Lions South Africa 2021 Travel Programme. This means that our packages include the all-important guaranteed official match tickets to each of the Lions' five provincial games as well as all three Test matches in Johannesburg, Cape Town and Johannesburg. This Tour includes Category A Tickets to the 3 Test Matches.
Find out more about your match tickets
Gullivers Sports Travel is fully ABTA and ATOL bonded. This means that you can relax and book your trip safe in the knowledge that your booking is fully protected with a reputable tour operator. Not all travel companies are ABTA members so always look for the logo. Gullivers have extensive health and safety processes to audit all suppliers and ensure high standards.
Follow The British & Irish Lions around South Africa with 37 nights' 4★ and 5★ hotel accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis. This tour package includes stays in Cape Town, Stellenbosch (Winelands), Port Elizabeth, Umhlanga (Durban), Mbombela, Sandton (Johannesburg), Knysna (Garden Route) and a Safari in Pilanesberg National Park (all meals included at Safari Lodge).
Find out more about your hotels
Return international flights from the UK to South Africa are included, as well as any domestic flights. Business Class upgrade supplement + £3,250pp, Premium Economy upgrade on request. We will have both direct and indirect flights within our tours. It is simply not possible for all supporters to travel to and from South Africa on direct flights, therefore some of our bookings will be allocated indirect routings.
Find out more about your flights
Coach transfers to and from the airports, matches (where required), overland touring and functions (where required) are all included in your package.
Gullivers is known for putting on events and those in New Zealand 2017 were perhaps the best yet. With a great atmosphere and true rugby camaraderie, these included events are sure to be highlights of your trip. Alongside Ryan and Rob, past guests have included Gavin Hastings, Ben Kay, Scott Gibbs, Richard Hill, Scott Quinnell, Martyn Williams and many more.
Ex-Lions Ryan Jones and Rob Henderson will once again be touring with the Gullivers tour groups in South Africa. After the major success of NZ 2017 they are back and ready to share the joy of rugby touring with you! Joining them will be a variety of other familiar faces across the tour.
An Official Lions Shirt is included in your travel package. There will also be other items of merchandise included. Please note that we will endeavour to provide your size requested, however as the clothing order has been placed prior to the Lions launch we are unable to guarantee this, also some items within the merchandise pack may be unisex and therefore the nearest fit to your requested size will be allocated.
To ensure that you can enjoy South Africa to its fullest and enjoy the sightseeing that you want to do we are offering a variety of optional excursions.
Find out more about the optional excursions
Rugby is Gullivers' heritage. This is Gullivers' 11th Lions Tour and we have over 30 years' experience of taking Lions supporters around the globe, creating a real rugby experience for real rugby people. You can book with confidence, safe in the knowledge you will be well looked after by our dedicated and experienced team.
Gullivers Sports Travel have been touring to South Africa for many years both for supporters and school trips. The Gullivers team ran successful cricket tours across South Africa in 2019/2020, getting to know the country even better. This will be our third Lions trip to South Africa
See more about South Africa here
To ensure you have the best possible experience on tour, you will have a Gullivers Tour Manager with your group in South Africa. The Tour Manager team are supported by an extensive office and on-site operations team.
Make your way to your departure airport to check in for your flight to South Africa.
Business Class upgrade supplement +£3,250pp, Premium Economy upgrade on request. We will have both direct and indirect flights within our tours. It is simply not possible for all supporters to travel to and from South Africa on direct flights, therefore some of our bookings will be allocated indirect routings.
Upon arrival into Cape Town, after clearing customs and immigration you will be transferred to your hotel. Cape Town is a magical city with a beautiful coastline, fantastic waterfront and the stunning backdrop of Table Mountain. The drive in from the airport is only a short one at approximately 30 minutes.
This evening the group will get together with the Tour Manager for Welcome Drinks. Get to know your tour group and tour manager, reminisce on past tours and trips and share the excitement of the magic of The British & Irish Lions Tour ahead.
This evening the first match of the tour takes place between DHL Stormers and The British & Irish Lions.
We will transfer to the match at Cape Town Stadium and back to the hotel afterwards. The Stadium enjoys a fantastic location near to the Victoria and Alfred Waterfront, perfect for if you wish to stay out for dinner or drinks after the game and make your own way back to the hotel later. Uber is widely used as the most cost-effective and safest way of getting around in Cape Town. If you are extending your evening to enjoy the bars and restaurants in the Waterfront it is not advised to walk back to the hotel.
Today we make the short drive out of the city to South Africa's famous and beautiful wine region. Staying at the Spier Hotel on the historic Spier wine farm a short drive out of the centre of Stellenbosch, this is the perfect spot to relax and rejuvenate after a busy couple of days arriving into South Africa. The hotel can assist you with taxi bookings if you are looking to go and eat and drink in the town of Stellenbosch with its vast array of local eateries, something for everyone!
Today is an opportunity to enjoy the area at your own pace, whether that be around the estate with onsite wine tastings (pre-booking essential) or exploring the region with a wine tour (pre-booking essential) or for those looking to be active perhaps a round at one of the regions golf courses or a hike through the stunning scenery. Stellenbosch has over 150 Wine Farms and estates to explore, with cellar doors scattered around the outskirts of town offering opportunities for tastings that will suit everyone, from the wine connoisseur through to the novice, all in the comfort and beauty in the unique atmosphere of the winelands. Check out the Winelands Tour we are offering today on the extras tab!
However you choose to spend the day, it's sure to taste fantastic with a nice cold glass of white wine or perhaps a glass of the local Pinotage!
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Check out of your hotel this morning and make the short transfer to the airport where we will fly across to Port Elizabeth ahead of the second game of the tour. On arrival into PE we will transfer to the waterfront Radisson Blu Hotel with its sweeping views of the Indian Ocean.
Enjoy a day in the Friendly City. Whether you are looking to spend the day hopping between the coffee shops brunching your way to the bars, or soaking up the fresh sea air there is plenty to enjoy here in Port Elizabeth ahead of this evenings game against a SA Invitational side. We'll transfer you to the match and back to the hotel afterwards.
If you are feeling active today you could embark on the Route 67 walk - 67 pieces of artworks, one for every year of Nelson Mandela's political life and his struggle for freedom. The route includes art galleries, parks and the Nelson Mandela Metropolitan Art Museum (entry fees applicable). Alternatively, why not book onto one of the below optional excursions (pre-booking essential).
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Today we leave Port Elizabeth following the tour as it moves onto Durban. After checking out of the hotel we will head to the airport for the short flight to Durban. On arrival into Durban we will head for Umhlanga, a coastal town known as one of the safest areas in the Durban area with its ever popular coastal feel and popular Umhlanga Promenade, the place to be in the evenings! Included in the tour is a group dinner this evening, your tour manager will share more information about location ahead of time.
Umhlanga enjoys a warm subtropical climate, just wonderful in the winter months of June to August.
This evening get together with your group and Tour Manager to enjoy a night of good company, good food and good drink!
With the third match of the tour this evening in Durban there is an opportunity to enjoy the coastal town of Umhlanga and it's surroundings today. There are plenty of cafes, bars, restaurants in Umhlanga along the promenade and for those looking to enjoy a swim, the sea temperature is typically 20 degrees at this time of year at Umhlangas Main Beach, one of the countries many blue flag beaches! Shopping opportunities are aplenty at the mall also.
We will transfer from the hotel to the match this evening and back to the hotel post-match.
Free day in Umhlanga today, a popular landmark to visit is Umhlanga lighthouse with the views of the warm Indian Ocean, or why not book onto one of our below optional excursions.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Today we will leave the coast of Durban and fly to Mbombela (formerly known as Nelspruit), the next stop on The British & Irish Lions Tour of South Africa in the penultimate game before the test match series begins. Mbombela is known as the gateway to Kruger National Park and is one of the major South African Tourist Destinations.
We will depart from the hotel in Umhlanga to the airport for the indirect flight to Mbombela via Johannesburg and then transfer from the airport to the hotel for a 4 night stay.
Day free in Mbombela. Today is an opportunity for you to head into Kruger park if you are keen to experience a day safari and the chance to see the Big 5. Gullivers is organising an excursion to Kruger Park (pre-booking essential) or you can choose from one of the local providers that depart from Mbombela.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
This evening sees the fourth game of the tour as the Lions take on a South Africa 'A' side. Transfer from the hotel to the stadium and back afterwards.
Day at leisure. In Lowveld Botanical Gardens there is a labyrinth of walks and waterfalls whilst Riverside Mall is a haven for shopping! Part of the Drakensberg Mountain Range, Blyde River Canyon is perhaps the most unmissable attraction if you are looking to get out and about for the day on a self booked excursion. 16 miles long and 750 metres deep it is sure to leave any observer in awe. Or why not book onto the optional excursion we are running today (pre brooking essential)?
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Today we will leave Mbombela for Sandton, a suburb of Johannesburg. The drive will take approximately 4 hours. Sandton is known as one of the safer areas of the region and a popular choice of Gullivers over many tours to South Africa. It is for this reason that we have decided to base ourselves in Sandton and drive into Pretoria for the game tomorrow.
This evening The British & Irish Lions take on the Vodacom Bulls in Pretoria. We will transfer from the hotel in Sandton to the stadium and back again after the game. The transfer should take about 45 minutes and is the fifth and final game for the Lions ahead of the 3 test series against the World Champion Springbok side
Day at leisure in Sandton. Whilst here you are certain to find yourself in Nelson Mandela Square with it's many cafe's, bars and restaurants or why not book onto one of our below optional excursions.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Today we leave Sandton and drive approximately 3 hours into the Pilanesberg region for 3 nights on Safari. A bucket list for many, the opportunity to enjoy a safari in South Africa is sure to be a trip highlight. Staying for 3 nights at the 5 Star Ivory Tree Game lodge in the malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve you will have the opportunity to enjoy safari drives with your guide in the Big 5 territory. There are two daily game drives included during your stay as well as all meals, teas, coffees and snacks. Outside of the Game Drives enjoy the facilities at the lodge and relax as hard as you like whether that be with lazy afternoon naps or enjoying the optional activities that you can book on-site (additional costs)
The lodge itself will have their own guidance on tipping their staff including the professional guides but it's widely acknowledged that if you think the service has been good it is advised you should tip directly at the resort as the staff rely on gratuities. Gratuities are not included in the price and are left to the discretion of the individuals.
This morning we depart the Safari Lodge and head back to Sandton for a 3 night stay. We head back to Protea Balalaika so you are familiar with the area already and can settle back in. On Friday evening join us for one of our big events as we welcome ex-players, journalists and those in the know for a hosted Q and A ahead of the test series.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
You are invited to join some famous faces from the world of Rugby and previous Lions tours for an evening of lively discussion & insight into the current tour.
Today is the day we have been building up to, the first test match between the Springboks and The British & Irish Lions. A special day that will forever live in the hearts of every Lions fan as the tourists prepare to face the wrath of the World Champions on their own soil.
With 2 of the 3 Test Matches being played in Johannesburg, there are sure to be thousands of Lions fans staying in the various districts all coming together in one big celebration of rugby.
After the excitement of the last test match against New Zealand in 2017, hopes are high going into the game against the World Champions. After swapping stories in the bar with your fellow Lions fans we'll transfer to the stadium in plenty of time ahead of kick-off and after the match finishes, we will transfer back to the hotel.
Today we leave Johannesburg and head down to the Garden Route. We will transfer to Johannesburg airport for the flight to George and from George, we will transfer to the hotel in Knysna for a 4 night stay. With its waterfront location on Knysna lagoon this is a great spot to relax and unwind for a few days before heading back up to Cape Town. Knysna is at the heart of the famous Garden Route, surrounded by Nature Reserves and National Parks. Whilst here it's worth considering booking onto a guided tour of the area or perhaps hiring a car and exploring the local towns. Alternatively, why not book onto one of the optional excursions Gullivers are organising below (pre booking essential). Plettenberg Bay just a short drive away is a lovely small beach town and a little further along is Tsitsikamma National Park. There are plenty of opportunities to be active in the region whether it be a beach/lagoon walk, a nature hike or canoeing! Back in Knysna why not wander over the bridge to Thesen Island and spend your evening at Tapas & Oysters where you can be sure of a great evening with the locals enjoying live music and hearty grub, it can get lively! Sirocco next door has been enjoyed by the Gullivers Staff for a quieter evening meal - if you can get a table overlooking the lagoon you will catch a lovely sunset.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Today we leave Knysna and head to the airport in George for the flight back up to Cape Town. Upon landing in Cape Town we will make the short transfer to the hotel for a longer 7 night stay. The Southern Sun Waterfront hotel is in the same area as the Westin you stayed in at the start of the tour, enjoying a fantastic location walking distance from the waterfront. Cape Town is one of the most magical cities in the world with its fantastic waterfront location and Table Mountain backdrop. With 7 nights here you have the opportunity to explore a little further afield and head over to stunning Camps Bay, the perfect spot for sundowners at one of the many bars/restaurants with oceanfront views. If you are looking to enjoy live sport look no further than Mojo Market in Sea Point, a short taxi ride from your hotel. Here you will find a variety of local food vendors all under one roof with live music and plenty of big screens showing live sport.
Today is a day of celebration as all of the Gullivers Tour groups get together to enjoy an afternoon of socialising, drinks and the true spirit of rugby touring. For those that were with us in Auckland 2017 this was a tour highlight and you can be sure of lots of singing, mingling and entertainment.
After a leisurely morning join us at the Gullivers Festival where we will all come together in one big celebration of Rugby and celebrate the food and wine of South Africa. We will be joined by some well-known faces from previous Lions tours & enjoy the build up to the 2nd Test Match of the Series.
Today is Cape Town's turn to host a test match, the pivotal second Test of the Series. So much has happened in game 2 in past series, the anticipation of what can happen is what builds the excitement. We will transfer from the hotel the short distance to the stadium and back after the game.
Recover from the excitement of the test match with some downtime in Cape Town. There are so many areas of Cape Town to explore whether you are looking to enjoy South African cuisine or history, there is a place for you. Why not enjoy one of the organised optional excursions on offer below (pre-booking essential) or explore in your own time. For the active amongst you a hike up Lions Head is rewarded with stunning views (a guided trip is recommended for safety) and many an hour can be spent in one of the waterfront bars enjoying the climate and the view. Of all the destinations we’ve visited in the world, Cape Town has to be up there with the sheer variety and quality of restaurants, with a wide range of cuisines on offer, set against beautiful background views, making those famous South African wines taste even better!
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Please see the extras tab for more information.
Today we leave Cape Town and return to Johannesburg and Sandton ahead of the eagerly anticipated third Test match of the series. We'll make the short transfer to Cape Town airport for the flight to Johannesburg where, upon landing, we will transfer to the Protea Balalaika hotel again.
Whilst in Johannesburg why not take some time to learn about its history, it’s hard to believe Johannesburg didn't exist 130 years ago. For most, Soweto is synonymous with Johannesburg and with resistance to apartheid, South Africa’s former policy of racial segregation. The township’s complex past is visible in Soweto’s moving museums, historical monuments, and strong traditions, and is well worth a visit on an organised tour. Constitution Hill is another of South Africa's most important historical sites which gives insight into South Africa’s recent history.
Today sees the third of the Gullivers Big Event days with a rugby day. An invitational Gullivers side will take on some local sides in a day of rugby. You can be assured of great camaraderie, true rugby atmosphere, singing, raffles, mixing with the locals and rugby stories.
Bring your boots for a game or come along and support the Gullivers Barbarians at our rugby club visit in Johannesburg; a great opportunity to mix with the locals. Always a popular day out with our supporters, food will be provided after the games and we anticipate there will be plenty of opportunity for you to swap stories and out sing the Springboks supporters in their own backyard, in preparation for the final test match tomorrow.
Today marks the third and final Test match of the series for The British & Irish Lions. The third test was a memorable affair in New Zealand in 2017, what will this game have in store? We will transfer you to the stadium from the hotel and back again after the final whistle.
Today, check out of your hotel and you will be transferred out to Johannesburg airport for your return flight home.
Arrive back in the UK and make your own homeward journey complete with great memories and new friends.
Kick-off: TBA
Kick-off: TBA
Kick-off: TBA
Kick-off: TBA
Kick-off: TBA
Kick-off TBA
Kick-off TBA
Kick-off TBA
The luxury Westin Cape Town will welcome you with a large modern bright and airy lobby, fantastic breakfasts and spacious rooms with deluxe bedding and floor-to-ceiling windows. There is a well-equipped gym with an outside pool complete with a lovely decking area. Of an evening, why not relax by the fantastic outdoor pool or in the hotel bar, or take a 5-minute leisurely stroll to the vibrant V&A Waterfront Harbour, where the city meets the sea, with a plethora of shops, restaurants and bars.
Set in the grounds of a historic winery, in the heart of the Stellenbosch wine growing region, the Spier Hotel is a perfect hotel for your stay in the Winelands. The rooms are all situated in village-style buildings, grouped around private courtyards. Each room is decorated with contemporary artworks from the Spier Collection. There is a fine dining restaurant, a more relaxed cafe and a bakery, along with swimming pools and a spa. Enjoy wine tasting at the hotel in the original Cape Dutch barn. Stellenbosch, known for its Cape Dutch architecture, and it's Cape oak-shaded streets lined with cafes, boutiques and art galleries is only a 10 minute taxi ride away.
Boasting majestic views of the Indian Ocean and close proximity to Port Elizabeths famous blue flag beaches, the Radisson Blu is the perfect hotel for your stay in Port Elizabeth. Complete with contemporary architecture and close proximity to the center of Port Elizabeth, this hotel is the whole package.
This 60s surf inspired hotel with its nostalgic undertones makes for a perfect base for a stay in Umhlanga. The hotel is just a few steps away from the popular Gateway Theatre of Shopping with its range of retail outlets and entertainment areas. Bright, breezy and modern rooms are ideal for unwinding after a big day out.
Convienently located in Riverside park, the Chill Pepper hotel offers fantastic accommodation on the doorstep of an array of shopping and dining options. Each of the hotels modern rooms feature unique décor including a seating area, air-conditioning and are equipped with a flat-screen TV. With a stay here, you can also treat yourself to a relaxing massage at the spa or a swim in the pool which is located adjacent to the fantastic 'Salt & Pepper' Restaurant. The Riverside Mall also is just 550 yards from the hotel.
Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of the bustling business and entertainment hub of Gauteng at the Protea Hotel by Marriott Johannesburg Balalaika Sandton. This hotel boasts its own lush, landscaped garden and sparkling swimming pool where guests can relax, unwind & experience the timelessness and calm of a bygone era. Two restaurants provide exceptional on-site dining, and there is also a fitness centre. The hotel is a 10 minute walk, or short taxi ride, from Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, with its mall, shops and extensive eating options.
aha Ivory Tree Game Lodge lies in the heart of the malaria-free Pilanesberg Game Reserve. The reserve is set within the crater of an ancient volcano – one of the largest of a very rare formation, where the Big 5 now roam, a mere 2 hour drive from Johannesburg. Surrounded by plains and hills, this luxurious lodge boasts an outdoor pool and spa. The thatched rooms are elegantly furnished with African themes. This hotel is inclusive of breakfast and dinner - as well as two game drives per day and lunch.
Situated in the heart of the garden route, this hotel enjoys a spectacular perspective of the popular town of Knysna. With the the hotel set on the Knysna Quays Waterfront, a selection of resturants and the lagoon at your doorstep, and Thessen Island only 1/2 a mile away, this hotel is equipped for leisure and relaxation.
The Southern Sun Waterfront’s recently refurbished and impressive facilities only compliment its location in the heart of the city and Cape Town’s most tourist friendly precinct. The hotel rooms themselves are fully air-conditioned. Of an evening, why not relax by the fantastic outdoor pool or in the hotel bar, or take a 5-minute leisurely stroll to the vibrant V&A Waterfront Harbour, where the city meets the sea, with a plethora of shops, restaurants and bars.
