Signature Events at the Cape
South Africa
South Africa has always been a place for out-of-this-world stays and soul-stirring experiences. But who says it all has to be about safaris? This spectacular country at the Cape has long evolved into a top-tier stage for world-class entertainment. We’re talking culture-packed festivals, live music under the stars, gourmet gatherings that wow the senses, and high-energy sporting events. It’s where first-class travel meets once-in-a-lifetime moments – and gives your clients a whole new way to fall for South Africa.
Signature Events at the Cape
South Africa
South Africa has always been a place for out-of-this-world stays and soul-stirring experiences. But who says it all has to be about safaris? This spectacular country at the Cape has long evolved into a top-tier stage for world-class entertainment. We’re talking culture-packed festivals, live music under the stars, gourmet gatherings that wow the senses, and high-energy sporting events. Here, luxury travel meets live moments – and your clients get to rediscover South Africa in a whole new way.
1,000 miles. 65 cars. 4 unforgettable days. The Cape 1000 is more than just a road ralley – it’s a rolling tribute to automotive elegance and engineering excellence. Participation is by invitation only. A selection committee decides who’s in, and it all comes down to the car. To apply, your client will need something rare, collectible, and conversation-starting. Because the Cape 1000 proudly calls itself "South Africa’s Most Beautiful Drive" – and that only works if the cars are just as breathtaking as the landscapes. Therefore, the committee curates a colorful mix of brands and models, with a focus on three categories: Sports Cars, Modern Classics, and Pre-1977 Icons. If your clients have a gem sitting in their garage, and a dream of driving it through the Cape’s jaw-dropping coastal roads – this event was made for them. What’s included: Event access, route fees, entry to the Killarney Race Track, on-the-road mechanic support, luxe goodie bags, five overnight stays with breakfast and dinner, local wines, a mobile coffee bar, a cocktail reception, and an awards ceremony. The 2026 edition will run from March 15 to 19. While the exact hotels are still under wraps, the route – from the iconic V&A Waterfront through Hermanus and Franschhoek, and back – promises a lineup of Cape hospitality gems that blend historic charm with modern indulgence.
Spotlight Hotels along the route: Ellerman House (Trade Contact), Grootbos Private Nature Reserve (Contact), Inverdoorn Private Game Reserve (Contact) & Delaire Graff Estate (Contact)
AfrikaBurn may be the little sister of Burning Man – but make no mistake, she’s not for everyone. Luxury? That’s intentionally dialed way down. This annual gathering at the end of April is all about the raw beauty of the landscape and the shared joy of co-creating something bold, wild, and artistic. At its heart is a powerful motto: "The more you do, the more fun you’ll have." Driven by a spirit of do-ocracy, AfrikaBurn thrives on action, initiative, and generosity. It’s a temporary society built entirely by volunteers who embrace radical participation and inclusion. They build theme camps, craft surreal mobile art installations (known as "mutant vehicles"), and pitch in wherever needed – whether in rangering or other community roles. From art and music to circus acts and wild costumes, every year follows a central theme that inspires all creative contributions. Like its big sibling in Nevada, AfrikaBurn culminates in a symbolic artwork going up in flames – a breathtaking ritual. But one rule stands above all: Leave no trace! Respect for nature is sacred. By the time early May rolls around and tents come down, the Tankwa Karoo National Park should look exactly as it did before: untouched. Good to know: For those drawn to the apocalyptic adventure by day but still craving comfort at night (and willing to accept a short drive), there are a few nice stays around.
Spotlight Hotel: Tierkloof Mountain Cottages (Trade Contact)
A highlight on South Africa's sporting calendar: the Nedbank Golf Challenge has welcomed some of the biggest names in golf over its 45-year history. From December 5 to 8, 66 world-class players will once again compete for a prize fund of six million USD. Part of the prestigious DP World Tour and the penultimate stop on the Race to Dubai, the tournament has been held since 1981 at the legendary Gary Player Country Club – South Africa's premier championship course, renowned for its formidable length, dramatic mountain backdrop, and lush indigenous vegetation lining the fairways. Clients who don’t want to miss a moment of Africa’s Major can reserve premium access at the Hospitali-TEE Lounge overlooking the 18th hole. This air-conditioned luxury suite features a shaded terrace, tournament bar, live TV coverage, and elevated dining throughout the day – including breakfast and lunch buffets, afternoon snacks, unlimited coffee, magnum wine in VIP packaging, and a whiskey tasting. The hospitality package also includes an official tournament ticket, daily autograph sessions, a branded golf shirt and cap, and the chance to win a VVIP experience with BMW shuttle service, game drive, and an overnight stay at the iconic Sun City Resort. Additional upgrades include access to the welcome dinner and beach party, as well as a round of golf at the spectacular Lost City Golf Course. Your truly golf-enthusiastic clients can even tee off themselves by entering the companion tournament, Africa’s Mini Major.
Spotlight Hotel: The Palace of the Lost City (Trade Contact)
Since 2000, the Cape Town Jazz Festival has brought music lovers from around the world together to celebrate African culture and hospitality at its finest. Every year a range of hospitality packages creates the perfect setting for a luxurious festival experience – complete with world-class music, gourmet cuisine, and premium drinks. One of the most popular options, "Jazz Ensemble", includes general admission plus access to three stages, a dedicated bar, a relaxation area with buffet-style catering and barista service, live streaming, and VIP access to the red carpet area. Guests looking for something even more exclusive can reserve a private pod – each designed for up to ten people, with six lounge-style seats and four café chairs. The package includes a private waiter, welcome drinks provided by the event sponsor, as well as hors d’oeuvres and a full buffet. For groups of 50 or more, a private food station can also be arranged. To round out the experience, a variety of concierge services is available – from shuttle transfers to curated excursions around Cape Town. This year’s artist lineup featured standout names like singer-songwriter Thandiswa Mazwai, saxophonist Linda Sikhakhane, trumpeter Muneeb Hermans, pianist and vocalist Thembi Dunjana, DJ Masoodah, and many more. While the artist roster for the next Cape Town Jazz Festival – expected to take place in March 2026 – hasn’t been announced yet, one thing’s for sure: it’s bound to deliver fresh surprises and unforgettable moments once again.
Spotligt Hotel: The Silo Hotel (Trade Contact)
On July 12 and 13, 2025, the Franschhoek Bastille Festival returns with a vibrant mix of entertainment, food, and wine in one of South Africa’s most beloved wine regions – and its culinary capital. Visitors can look forward to lively performances by street musicians and artists (think rhythm magicians and more), alongside tastings from acclaimed wineries such as Allée Bleue, Bellingham, Painted Wolf, and Wildeberg. Franschhoek Valley is, after all, famous for its fine wines and culinary flair. Festivalgoers will enjoy wine tastings inside the Iconic Bastille marquee, delicious food, and live entertainment throughout the weekend. The program also includes a classic car showcase and two crowd-pleasing competitions: the Barrel Rolling contest, where strength and agility are tested, and the "Best Dressed" challenge, where a French-inspired outfit could win the day. Prizes include a waterside helicopter experience for two, a two-night stay at Aquila Private Game Reserve with all meals, a horseback safari and more, as well as a two-day getaway at Nut Grove Manor, including roundtrip flights with Airlink and a safari in Kruger National Park. General admission to the Iconic Marquee includes a branded wine glass, ten tasting coupons, and a festival shopping bag. Franschhoek also offers a rich year-round events calendar, including the Literary Festival (May 16-18), Classic Car Festival (October 4-5), Franschhoek Creates (November 1-15), Franschhoek Open Gardens (November 7-9), and the Cap Classique & Champagne Festival (November 29-30).
Spotlight Hotel: Last Word Franschhoek (Trade Contact)
On March 8, 2026, Cape Town will once again host the Cape Town Cycle Tour – offering two route options: a challenging 68-miles ride for serious cyclists, and a more accessible 26-miles course for those seeking a slightly easier adventure. Both races begin in quick succession beneath the historic Castle of Good Hope, along Nelson Mandela Boulevard. The routes split at the end of the Blue Route Freeway: the 68 miles riders turn left, while the 26 miles participants make a U-turn and head uphill toward Groote Schuur, where they’re rewarded with sweeping views over Table Bay during the descent into the finish line. Those tackling the full 68 miles continue along the scenic coastal road past Muizenberg and Kalk Bay, up to Smitswinkel, through Scarborough and Misty Cliffs, and beyond. This circular route around the Cape Peninsula has remained largely unchanged since 1978 – the year the Cape Town Cycle Tour began as a protest ride advocating for safer cycling infrastructure in the city. Today, safety is guaranteed thanks to full road closures along the course. Cyclists can enjoy stunning views of ocean and mountains while being cheered on by enthusiastic crowds lining the streets. Top spectator spots include Wynberg Hill, Muizenberg, Kalk Bay, Noordhoek Farm Village, Hout Bay, Suikerbossie, and the iconic final stretch through Camps Bay. Fans and friends can track participants in real time with the Sport Splits app, which also features live leaderboards and an interactive course map with aid stations, cut-off points and parking zones.
Spotlight Hotel: The Alphen Boutique Hotel & Spa (Trade Contact)
Let's Ask the Industry:
Are Events just Fun Extras – or the Real Reason to Book the Trip?
“South Africa is currently one of the most in-demand destinations among our clients – especially for exclusive nature experiences, high-end safaris, and indulgent journeys with elevated standards. Luxurious lodges, tailor-made itineraries, and combinations with neighboring countries like Namibia, Botswana, or Mozambique (think safari and beach combos) are particularly popular. Culinary experiences and fine wine also play a major role: Cape Town, the Winelands, and the Garden Route are magnets for foodies and pleasure-seekers alike. There’s also a noticeable shift toward conscious travel – many guests are actively seeking eco-friendly accommodations and local providers. Generally speaking, events are seen as an attractive bonus rather than a main driver – but there are exceptions: sporting events like the Cape Town Cycle Tour are generating strong interest – in fact, four of our clients traveled specifically for it this March. Concerts and music events in Cape Town also keep drawing attention – I just recently promoted the Sting concert in spring, for example.“
Maria Moreno, Travel Designer at TUI Reisecenter Wiesbaden, Germany