Feefo Gold Trusted Service Award 2024
Gullivers Sports Travel are an Official Sub-Agent for 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 the 1st Test match in Johannesburg. This Tour includes Category A Tickets to the 1st Test Match.
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 23 nights' 3★, 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), Sun City (for Pilanesburg National Park) and Pretoria.
Find out more about your hotels
Return international flights from the UK to South Africa are included, as well as any domestic flights. Premium Economy and Business Class upgrades 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.
Premium Economy and Business Class upgrades 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 and 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 5★ Asara Wine Lodge 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.
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 Protea Port Elizabeth 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, you could book one of the advertised excursion opportunities or enjoy one of your own 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!
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. Alternatively, why not book onto one of the advertised excursions Gullivers is offering (pre booking essential).
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 some excursions for you to choose from (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.
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. Alternatively why not book onto one of the advertised excursions we are organising for today (pre booking essential).
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 a 3 nights stay in Sun City. Known as the gateway to Pilanesburg National Park, home to the Big 5, Sun City is a luxury resort and Casino complex. Upon arrival into Sun City, check into Cabana's hotel.
This morning we depart Sun City and head to Pretoria for a 3 night stay ahead of the eagerly anticipated 1st Test. On arrival check into the Pretoria Hatfield. 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.
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 and around the various districts all coming together in one big celebration of Rugby.
After the excitement of the last test match against NZ 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, 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
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.
Asara is an award-winning wine estate and luxury hotel set in the heart of the Cape Winelands. Offering warm hospitality, luxury accommodation and the finest food and wine, this hotel is truly the best way to make the most of your time in Stellenbosch. The spacious and stylish rooms are complimented by a range of opulent amenities including a heated swimming pool, a Gin Lounge and Terrace as well as a choice of restaurants.
Situated in the upmarket Summerstrand, the Protea Hotel by Marriott Port Elizabeth Marine is located adjacent to one of the blue flag beaches in this elegant district. The hotel is close in proximity to the Boardwalk Casino complex which has an array of drinking and dining options as well as the Summerstrand Village Shopping centre where you can pick up those all important souvenirs! The property itself offers a restaurant, bar, gym and swimming pool for your to enjoy during your time in Port Elizabeth.
Protea Hotel by Marriott Durban Umhlanga is your gateway to golden beaches and lush surrounding with stunning views overlooking the KwaZulu-Natal coast. This modern hotel in centrally located in the heart of Umhlanga Rocks, just a few minutes from the beach. The hotel offers comfortable accommodation in elegantly and stylishly furnished rooms. On the doorstep are a selection of restaurants, including the renowned The Oyster Box.
Experience true hospitality in the Mpumalanga Capital at the award-winning Protea Hotel Nelspruit. Situated in a region abundant with sunshine and lush hills, this is a perfect location for exploring the Lowveld and Mbombela. Boasting minimalist style, each rooms is fitted with modern comforts including air conditioning and a TV. The hotel also features the fantastic Fig Tree Restaurant which serves a range of South African cuisine.
The Radisson Blu Gautrain is a modern and sophisticated hotel located in the heart of Sandton's business district. Its impressive atrium sets the tone for a memorable experience, the stylish rooms come with top-notch amenities. The hotel boasts a restaurant and bar along with the largest fitness megaplex in Sandton spanning over 5500sqm coupled with an indoor running track. The hotel is a 5 minute walk, or short shuttle ride, from Nelson Mandela Square in Sandton, with its mall, shops and extensive eating options.
Laidback and family friendly, this newly refurbished hotel offers that holiday vibe from the moment you arrive. With plenty of on-site dining options and the close proximity to the Waterworld Lake, the tropical gardens and beach a relaxing stay is ensured. Each of the rooms is air-conditioned and is equipped with a flat-screen television as well as tea-and-coffee making facilities.
The Protea Hotel Pretoria Hatfield is situated in the trendy and upmarket suburb of Hatfield, Pretoria and offers sophisticated accommodation for your stay in one of South Africa's capital cities. The hotel is complimented by free Wi-Fi and spacious rooms whilst its bar and restaurant offer up a spot to enjoy your downtime. If you are looking to explore during your time here then this hotel is fantastically located just 450m from the Hatfield Gautrain Station which offers a high speed train services between greater Pretoria and nearby Johannesburg.
