Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Official AbbottWMM Package
Join us at the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon 2027!
As the Official Travel Agency and Tour Operator of AbbottWMM, we have created packages specifically designed for those who are on their Six Star Journey.
Marathon Tours & Travel are the Official Tour Operator of the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon and have teams in offices around the world ready to support your journey to the start line. 2026 saw Eliud Kipchoge run Sanlam Cape Town Marathon as first stop on his World Tour.
In 2026, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon passed its final test and reached a historic milestone by officially joining the Abbott World Marathon Majors (AbbottWMM) as the eighth race in the prestigious series. This achievement cements the city’s place among the world’s premier marathon destinations, highlighting its world-class course, breathtaking scenery and growing global appeal to runners and spectators alike.
Cape Town’s history is long and storied. It is a city with an unrivalled culture and diversity, boasting a heady mix of old and new. Nothing speaks to this more than the iconic attractions made up of Cape Point, City Walk, Groot Constantia, Kirstenbosch, Robben Island Museum, Table Mountain Cableway and V&A Waterfront, that form the core of the Mother City.
Please note that we cannot sell entries to residents of South Africa.
Meals Included
Daily breakfasts included & dinner on Saturday
Guide
Trusted by the race organisers as their Official Tour Operator. Our experienced team will guide & support you
Transfers
Hotels are walking distance to the race activities or a shuttle service is provided
Trip Extension
Various available
Accommodation
Choice of accommodation
Celebration Party
Post-race celebration included
Excursions
Various sightseeing options
A Helping Hand
Hosted on-site by Marathon Tours & Travel
Worldwide Events
AbbottWMM Marathon Tours & Travel World Age Group Qualifying Race.
Medal Bling
Finishers receive a medal, race t-shirt & goodie bag
Travel Package Information
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Itinerary
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Thursday 20 May 2027
The itinerary below is subject to change and should be used as a rough guide.
Depending on the length of stay you have booked with us you might arrive before or depart on different days to the following itinerary.
Extending your stay by adding a pre or post trip extension or adding extra nights is recommended as it allows you the time to enjoy the Country. For guidance on South Africa and what to expect please refer to our Destination Guide
Welcome to Cape Town!
Arrive at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) make your way from the airport to the hotel and check in. For airport transfers we recommend pre-booking with EZShuttle. they will meet you in arrivals and ensure a smooth and stress free arrival. To benefit from their good value rates and receive a 5% discount please book using the following coupon.
Coupon: MARATHON05
Website: www.ezshuttle.co.za
If you arrive before the hotels standard check in time and your room is not ready you can leave your luggage at the hotel and explore your surroundings, or use the free time to visit the Expo to collect your race bib and any other extra items you may need. Detailed directions will be provided in your final itinerary. All hotels are either in the central city centre on the outskirts of or in the V&A Waterfront, within walking distance to all race activities and surrounded by top quality restaurants and entertainment.
Marathon Tours & Travel hosts will be waiting in your hotel reception area today to meet you and answer any questions you might have.
Friday 21 May 2027
The itinerary below is subject to change and should be used as a rough guide.
We suggest you collect your race bib from the Expo today and/or get to know your fellow travellers take in the sights with the Marathon Tours & Travel group.
Half Day Cape Town Sightseeing Tour with Expo Stop
Marathon Tours & Travel group. After breakfast, we will depart for a half-day sightseeing tour of this beautiful city including all the ‘must-sees” of Cape Town, which is a geographical and cultural extravaganza. If weather permits, you’ll also enjoy a cable car ride to the top of Table Mountain where you will be able to get a 360 degree view of Cape Town, Table Bay and the nearby peaks of the surrounding mountains. Last stop is at the expo to pick up your race kits. Return from the expo is under your own arrangements (Uber taxi or walk). 08:00 to 13:00
If you prefer to be independent you can make your own way to the Expo and/or travel around on the Hop-on Hop-off bus routes.
(Breakfast included)
Saturday 22 May 2027
The itinerary below is subject to change and should be used as a rough guide.
This morning before breakfast we run as a group, please join us! All fitness levels are welcome as it will be at an easy pace, no longer than 5km (approx. 3 miles). A perfect opportunity to loosen your legs, ask questions and get to know your fellow runners!
If you did not collect your bib yet today is your last chance.
Your day is free to explore, please ask your Marathon Tours & Travel (MTT) hosts for recommendations.
Often restaurants are booked up early, but you do not need to worry about finding somewhere to carb-load as this evening we will enjoy a substantial buffet meal with other MTT guests from around the world.
(Breakfast and dinner included)
Sunday 23 May 2027
The itinerary below is subject to change and should be used as a rough guide.
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon race day is here! After an early breakfast, please make your way to the start line. Marathon Tours & Travel will guide you.
Depending on your hotel location we will either provide transport to and from the race or take escorted walks at key times.
Supporters are welcome to join the MTT team to cheer everyone on.
After the race, recharge with us in the International Tent. Meet the Marathon Tours & Travel team at the finish. Guidance will be given. Depending on your hotel location we will either provide transport or you take a walk back to your hotel.
This evening, join Marathon Tours & travel hosts, your new running friends and supporters to celebrate as we‘ll meet up for post-race celebrations, saying cheers to all of our runners on an amazing accomplishment!
(Breakfast included)
Monday 24 May 2027
The itinerary below is subject to change and should be used as a rough guide.
Enjoy a leisurely morning before transferring on your own to the airport for your flight home. Additional nights are available on request if you would like to continue to explore Cape Town at your own pace. For those joining the post-race extension to Shamwari Game Reserve we will have an early morning transfer to the Cape Town Airport.
For those who leave us today we will bid you farewell. It’s not goodbye but instead we’ll see you next time as we hope you will join us for another Marathon Tours & Travel trip.
(Breakfast included)
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Extensions
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Information here is subject to change as we’re busy crafting our 2027 packages – securing the best locations, rates, and exclusive runner deals.
NEW! The African Double Challenge…run in Cape Town and Madagascar! Our Madagascar Marathon Tour takes place the Sunday following the 2026 Cape Town Marathon. You can select to run a marathon, half-marathon, 10K or Ultra 50K. It’s a challenge plus an amazing African adventure! For those who participate in both packages, we have a two-night stay in the wine region of Stellenbosch, airport transfers and your flight from Cape Town to Antananarivo, Madagascar as an option. Learn more about our Madagascar Marathon Tour here and/or email [email protected].
Please refer to the Packages & Rates section for costs. The below extension packages can be added during the main Sanlam Cape Town Marathon package booking process. Please click the Book Now button.
WINELANDS EXTENSIONS
Step into a world where elegance meets adventure, and every sip tells a story. The Winelands region of the Western Cape isn’t just a destination—it’s an experience that awakens your senses and soothes your soul.
The Winelands offer luxury, culture, and nature in perfect harmony. Imagine waking up to golden sunrises, strolling through historic towns like Stellenbosch and Franschhoek, visiting rolling vineyards, indulging in world-class wines crafted by generations of passionate vintners, and excellent cuisines choices. Every moment here is unforgettable and just what you need to relax before or after the marathon.19 – 21 May 2026 / Pre Sanlam Cape Town Marathon main package includes the following;
- Accommodation in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek as selected, arrival 19 May 2026
- Daily breakfasts, except on arrival day
- Accommodation taxes, Tourism Levy & 15% VAT
- Full day sightseeing & lunch
- Transport from hotel to main Cape Town package hotel
- Guidance and support from Marathon Tours & Travel host
The above package does not include transport to your accommodation on 19 May 2026. If you are arriving from Cape Town International Airport (CPT) we suggest taking a taxi / Uber Black to Stellenbosch (30 minutes, £15-£20) or Franschhoek (1 hour, £30-£45)
Accommodation choices available at Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel & Spa or Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa.
25 – 27 May 2026 / Post Sanlam Cape Town Marathon main package includes the following;
- Transport from main Cape Town package hotel to selected hotel in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek
- Accommodation in Stellenbosch or Franschhoek as selected, arrival 25 May 2026
- Daily breakfasts, except on arrival day
- Accommodation taxes, Tourism Levy & 15% VAT
- Full day sightseeing & lunch
- Guidance and support from Marathon Tours & Travel host
The above package does not include transport from your accommodation on 27 May 2026. If you are leaving for Cape Town International Airport (CPT) we suggest taking a taxi / Uber Black from Stellenbosch (30 minutes, £15-£20) or Franschhoek (1 hour, £30-£45)
Accommodation choices available at Oude Werf Hotel, Coopmanhuijs Boutique Hotel & Spa or Le Franschhoek Hotel & Spa.
LUXURY SAFARI EXTENSION
Shamwari, meaning “my friend” in Shona, is the pinnacle of private game reserves and home to the coveted Big 5, stretching 25,000 hectares over a malaria-free landscape, it offers an award-winning nature experience along with the largest concentration of wildlife in Southern and Eastern Cape.
Please Note: All children must be 6 years or older to join parents on this extension, and must be supervised at all times.
25 – 28 May 2026 / Shamwari Post Sanlam Cape Town Marathon main package
includes the following:
- 3 nights accommodation at 5* Shamwari Game Reserve, arrival Monday 25 May 2026
- Accommodation taxes, Tourism Levy & 15% VAT
- Hotel taxes (15% vat & 1% tourism levy)
- Conservation Fees
- Breakfast / Lunch / Afternoon Tea / Dinner each day
- Game drives / Guided walks
- Coach transfer from Cape Town to Cape Town airport (25-May)
- Flight from Cape Town to Port Elizabeth one way (25-May)
- Coach transfer from Shamwari to Port Elizabeth airport (28-May)
- Hosted on-site by Marathon Tours & Travel
- Game Reserve Staff Gratuities
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Tuesday 19 May 2026
If you arrive before the hotels standard check in time and your room is not ready you can leave your luggage at the hotel and explore your surroundings.
Between 15:00-17:00 a representative will be available to meet you and answer any questions you might have.
Wednesday 20 May 2026
After breakfast we set off on foot for a walking tour of the town. The local tour guide will explain the history, culture and visit monuments and key sights before meeting the coach driver for a tour of the Cape Winelands. Its true that it is renowned for its crisp white and classic French style red wines, fantastic cheeses and olives but it also has a stunning wealth of natural rustic beauty with vast estates shaded from the African sunshine by giant oak trees and towering mountains overlooking lush valley. The tour includes lunch, 2 or 3 wine tastings and a cellar tour. 08:00 to 16:00.
(Breakfast & Lunch included)
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Monday 25 May 2026
After breakfast and a leisurely morning you check out of the main Sanlam Cape Town Marathon package hotel and our coach leaves for yoour Winelands extension. Journey time to Stellenbosch (45 minutes) or Franschhoek (1 hour). If we arrive before the hotels standard check in time and your room is not ready you can leave your luggage at the hotel, enjoy the hotel facilities/restaurant and explore your surroundings.
Tuesday 26 May 2026
After breakfast we set off on foot for a walking tour of the town. The local tour guide will explain the history, culture and visit monuments and key sights before meeting the coach driver for a tour of the Cape Winelands. Its true that it is renowned for its crisp white and classic French style red wines, fantastic cheeses and olives but it also has a stunning wealth of natural rustic beauty with vast estates shaded from the African sunshine by giant oak trees and towering mountains overlooking lush valley. The tour includes lunch, 2 or 3 wine tastings and a cellar tour. 08:00 to 16:00.
(Breakfast & Lunch included)
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Monday 25 May 2026
Its an early start as we transfer from the main Cape Town Marathon package hotel to Cape Town International Airport for the 80 minute flight to Port Elizabeth (scheduled to depart at 06:10). Upon arrival you will be transferred to Shamwari Game Reserve, settle in and enjoy the lodge facilities before departing for your first game drive. In four-wheel Land Rovers you will explore the expansive 55,000 acre reserve in search of lions, elephants, rhinos, cheetahs, giraffe, eland, buffalo and much more wildlife roaming through the hills and valleys.
(Lunch and dinner included)
Tuesday 26 & Wednesday 27 May 2026
Today is an early morning wake-up (06:00) with coffee available before departing for your morning game drive. This is a great time to view many animals visiting the water holes and/or predators hunting for its day food. We will return around 09:00 for breakfast and spend the middle of the day relaxing by the pool, going on game walks, and/or enjoying one of the many spa treatments available. We will head out for our last game drive at 16:00 and return for our Closing Reception and dinner.
(Breakfast, lunch and dinner included)
Thursday 28 May 2026
After breakfast, transfers (included) will be booked to accommodate guests individual travel plans departing Port Elizabeth Airport for onward flights. Please note the road transfer journey time between Shamwari and Port Elizabeth Airport is 60 – 90 minutes, and guests will be grouped on to the best suited transfer time to meet your departure.
We recommend flying directly to Johannesburg (JNB) or Cape Town (CPT) so that you can connect with your international flight home. Please note that your flight from Port Elizabeth to your connecting city is not included.
(Breakfast included)
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Packages & Rates
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Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Official AbbottWMM Package | Three-Night Package: May 20 – 25, 2027:
- 4 nights hotel accommodation
- Daily breakfasts, except on arrival day
- Welcome drinks reception (20 May)
- Half day city tour with Expo (21 May)
- Pre-race Dinner (22 May)
- Race day transport to race start for marathon participants (23 May) *
- Race day transport from race finish for runners and supporters (23 May) *
- Invite to MTT cheer zone for supporters on race day
- Post Race celebrations (23 May)
- All tourism taxes & tour guide gratuities where applicable
- Guidance and support from the Marathon Tours & Travel team in Cape Town
Optional extras bookable online (additional cost)
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GUARANTEED Sanlam Cape Town Marathon entry for companions
- Extra nights available (room, tourism levy & breakfast only)
- Optional extensions
- Anything not mentioned in inclusions above
(PACKAGE SUBJECT TO CHANGE)Travelling with children or extra nights?
Contact us for a quote or refer to the price table.
Supporters
We recognise the importance of family and friends’ inclusion on this trip. Supporters are very welcome and included in activities, except the race related activities and the run itself.
Solo Travellers
We take the hassle out of travel and provide a memorable and safe experience that is achieved by traveling with like-minded, adventure-seeking runners. It’s fun seeing the sights and running with a group and travelling with Marathon Tours & Travel gives the assurance that with no logistical concerns.
Room Policy
Marathon Tours & Travel’s policy is that anyone staying in our room block must be part of our package. If you plan to bring a spouse or guest, they must purchase our package. For example, if there are two of you, the rate would be the double occupancy rate (per person). If you purchase a single occupancy rate package, then only you are allowed in your room. To attend any of our activities, you must be part of our package.
2027 rates coming soon!
All prices are per person in UK pounds sterling Optional ExtrasAll prices are per person in UK pounds sterling Guaranteed Sanlam Cape Town Marathon Entry £ Optional Extensions - refer to Extensions tab for more detailsAll prices are per person in UK pounds sterling Shamwari Safari Extension 3 nights Double Occupancy Single Occupancy Shamwari - Standard / Premium Lodge Rooms £ £
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Event Information
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Information here is subject to change as we await updated 2027 information.
Sanlam Cape Town Marathon 2026
All Cape Town Marathon 2026 finishers will receive a provisional star which will be fully recognised if Cape Town passes its 2026 evaluation. Full report here.
Africa’s only AIMS Gold Label Marathon and currently an Abbott World Marathon Majors candidate. Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will host the AGWC in 2026.
Guaranteed Entry can be purchased in addition to a package. Please note that we cannot sell entries to residents of South Africa.
Date: Saturday 23 May (all races except marathon) / Sunday 24 May 2026 (Marathon)
Start Times (Saturday)
Stadium StartTrail 46km: 06h30
Trail 22km: 07h15
10km: 07h30
Trail 11km: 08h30
5km: 10h00
Marathon Start Times (Sunday)
Stadium Start
Wheelchair Start: 07h50
Elite Athlete Start: 08h00
Yellow Wave Start: 08h10
Pink Wave Start: 08h40
Red Wave Start: 09h06
Beach Road Start
AGWC Start: 08h05
Blue Wave Start: 08h27
Green Wave Start: 08h53
Race Rules
All official race rules must be followed and will be communicated directly to all registered participants.
Course
Starting and finishing outside the iconic Cape Town Stadium, the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon winds through the city in the shadow of Table Mountain along a fast route down to the southern suburbs and back, to loop next to the sea and the finish line. Hosted in a unique city that brings the best of all worlds together, the marathon will enable runners from Africa and around the globe to experience the spirit of running an African Major. Set in the beautiful, international city of Cape Town on the tip of South Africa, it embodies the beauty of the sea and mountains of the Cape. Alongside the marathon (Sunday) the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon weekend includes 10km & 5km Peace Runs and some mountain trail runs (Saturday); 43-46km, 22km & 11km.
Time Limit & Cut Offs
Cut-off times
42.2km Marathon – 6.5 hours
See the route map for details of all cut-off timesTrail Events:
43-46km Cape Town Trail Marathon – 10 hours
22km Cape Town Trail Run – 5 hours
11km Cape Town Trail Run – 4 hoursPeace Runs:
10km Peace Run – 2.5 hours
5km Peace Run – 1.5 hours*10km runners will be diverted to the 5km route if they haven’t reached 2.75km by 08h05
Weather
Average temperatures range between 13 to 20 deg C (55 to 68 deg F)
Eligibility
In accordance with Athletics South Africa (ASA) Rules and Regulations, participants must meet the minimum age requirement for each event by the event date.
5km Peace Run: 9 years
10km Peace Run: 14 years
11km Cape Town Trail: 18 years
22km Cape Town Trail: 18 years
43-46km Cape Town Trail Marathon: 20 years
42.2km Marathon: 18 years
Awards
Everyone who finishes the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon will receive a medal, ASICS Shirt and goodie bag.
Event difficulty
Moderate to fairly flat course. As flat as it can be in Cape Town!
ALL DETAILS FOR 2026 ARE SUBJECT TO CHANGE AND WILL BE VERIFIED AND UPDATED NEARER TO THE RACE DATE.
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Registration & Booking
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UNIQUE CANCELLATION AND PAYMENT TERMS FOR CAPE TOWN MARATHON 2027
Payment Schedule
- 30% deposit plus 100% of race entry
- Second payment of 20%, will be deducted from your stored credit card on 30 September 2026
- Third payment of 20%, will be deducted from your stored credit card on 30 November 2026 2026
- Remaining balance due in full by 31 January 2027, your stored card will be deducted.
Cancellation terms
The following cancellation terms override our general T&C’s
- Deposit and costs paid are not refundable and non-transferrable. Non-transferrable includes applying your balance to another person, another year, or another trip. Should you cancel for any reason, you will forfeit your trip investment. Therefore, travel insurance for every trip is highly recommended.
Children
If you have added a child to your booking, please advise [email protected] of your child’s name, age and booking reference.
Your Details
Please check all the details shown to make sure the names on your booking are the same as each person’s passport. If not, please let us know within 48 hours of making your booking so we can change them. If you don’t let us know straight away, you may be charged. Names must be given at the time of booking and any shown as TBA will be classed as a name change and there will be a charge.
Itinerary
Please refer to the itineraries descriptions displayed on our website. Arriving later than the start of our advertised itinerary or shortening your stay is not recommended as you may miss some activities. Please keep this in mind when you book your travel arrangements.
Please note there are no reimbursements or credits if you decide not to participate in any elements of the trip.
Insurance
We strongly recommend travellers to take out comprehensive travel insurance with sufficient healthcare cover, including cover for existing medical conditions and any activities you plan to do. Read more about travel insurance here.
Credit Card
It is generally required that hotels request a credit card imprint upon check-in, where a value is held and released when you check out. Any incidentals such as room service or chargeable extras to the room would be deducted.
Race Rules
All official race rules must be followed.
Starting Times and Bib Numbers
Although we are licensed to sell official entries for the Sanlam Cape Town Marathon, we have no influence over the allocation of starting times and bib numbers. After purchasing your race entry with us, you will be sent a link to complete the registrations process. Please do not expect it immediately after booking – it will be sent when Sanlam Cape Town Marathon send the links to us. The race organisers will allocate you a starting time and bib based on the information you provide.
Special Assistance
If you or anyone on your booking needs any special assistance for reduced mobility, disability, or any other medical condition, you should let us know at [email protected]
We can give you more information about the accessibility of different services and the assistance available from transport and accommodation suppliers, or at venues. Availability and access to certain services / seating may be limited by the service provider so we recommend you talk to us about what you need before booking. If you book online, please add details of any special assistance you need in the special request box.
Special Requests
If you have any special request, you must advise us in writing at the time of booking e.g. diet, room location, a particular facility at a hotel or seat at an event etc. You should then confirm your requests in writing. Although we will endeavour to pass any reasonable requests on to the relevant supplier, we regret we cannot guarantee any request will be met. Confirmation that a special request has been noted or passed on to the supplier or the inclusion of the special request on your confirmation invoice or any other documentation is not confirmation that the request will be met. No refund or credit will be given if we cannot confirm a special request pertaining to an element included in your booked package. Refer also to our standard T&C’s which can be viewed on our website.
Important Travel Information
It’s important be up to date with the latest information about where you’re travelling to and what documents you need to have in order to travel.
For information about passports and applying for them, you should check the passport pages of the UK Government Website.
To learn more about the destination that you are travelling to, including specific travel advise and entry requirements, the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development office (FCDO) publishes up to date information here.
When you travel, you should be ‘Travel Aware’. By following the Travel Aware link, you’ll find a whole list of useful information put together by the FCDO, which will help you be ‘Travel Aware’ for your journey ahead.
Security Policy
Marathon Tours & Travel’s security policy requires that anyone staying in our room block must be registered as part of our package. If a registered client attempts to house a non-registered guest and /or invite them to attend any of our scheduled activities, the registered guest’s tour package will be forfeited, and parties may be denied access to future tours. Please note that no exceptions will be made as this policy will be strictly enforced.
Conditions of Sale
Please note we cannot sell race entry without accommodation package. Race entry is not refundable.
If you wish to make any changes to your reservations administration and/or service fees might apply. For our general T&C’s please see here.
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Abbott World Marathon Majors Age Group World Championship
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You can use this event to qualify for the Abbott World Marathon Majors Marathon Tours & Travel Age Group World Championships (AGWC). If you secure a place, we invite you to book our official travel package and share the championship experience with other Age Groupers here.
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Seven Continents Club ®
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The Seven Continents Club® (SCC) is our global running community that proudly supports runners in pursuing their running goals. As well as connecting runners from around the world, being a member of the club comes with exclusive benefits, including priority access to our most in‑demand events - helping you plan ahead and secure places in some of the world’s most sought‑after running adventures. Join SCC today!
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South Africa Destination Guide
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Visiting South Africa for the 1st time and not sure what to expect? Check out of Destination Guide
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