South Africa 18 Day Explorer

We set off early from Johannesburg for our journey on a picturesque road through mountain passes to the African bushveld. Stop off for lunch in the historic village of Haenertsburg on the edge of a mountain escarpment. This vibrant town is known for its magnificent views and lush forest vegetation. Lunch will be at your own expense. The next two nights we get cosy at our well-appointed Bush Lodge, situated in a private reserve within the greater Kruger National Park, where animals roam freely and unrestricted. Expect an exciting couple of days on safari as we head out on game drives with expert guides in open safari vehicles into a natural world where wild animals roam free. This privately owned reserve allows us the freedom to explore the wilderness in search of a variety of animals in open game drive vehicles, at our leisure. The tented lodge casually blends into the bush and offers crisp, comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, a refreshing splash pool, and stunning views over the surrounding wilderness, including a waterhole frequented by a variety of animals. Overnight at a Private Tented Bush Lodge or similar - Dinner

Wake early with a sunrise cup of coffee and fresh rusks (a traditional South African biscuit) before heading out on your early morning safari. In the company of an expert field guide, explore the wilderness with heightened senses on the lookout for creatures big and small. All this excitement works up a healthy appetite, and we return to the lodge for a delicious brunch before finding a spot to relax and take in the special energy of the African bush - be that from your private deck or the poolside. A bustling waterhole in front of the camp attracts thirsty animals of all shapes and sizes, and you have front-row seats. As the heat of the day subsides, it's time for our late afternoon game drive. Enjoy sundowners at dusk, another safari tradition, as the sun burns its way below the horizon. A safari after dark is a different experience altogether, as nocturnal predators come out to hunt and prey, and eyes honed to darkness glint mysteriously in the bush. Return to the lodge for dinner under the starry galaxy and share stories around the campfire. Retire to bed to an orchestra of sounds - think roaring lions, cackling hyenas, honking hippos and hooting owls - that end a day you will not soon forget. Overnight at a Private Tented Bush Lodge or similar - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

After another glorious sunrise and a hearty breakfast, we set off on a spectacularly beautiful expedition. Today our route takes us on an exploration of the Panorama Route, known for its awesome views, waterfalls, and natural wonders. Experience the breath-taking beauty of Blyde River Canyon, the world's third-largest canyon. The meandering Blyde River, striking rock formations, deep gorges, and vibrant plant life combine to create a stunning landscape. View the unique formations reminiscent of traditional African round houses (rondavels), enhancing to the richness of our journey through this remarkable terrain. We visit Pilgrim's Rest, a historic gold mining town preserved as a living museum. Established during the 1873 gold rush, it boasts charming Victorian architecture, quaint shops, and rich heritage sites. Thereafter, we journey to a serene log cabin perched on stilts in an indigenous forest, overlooking the Sabie River. If time allows, you can opt for a tranquil nature walk through the forest or explore a neighbouring coffee farm, enjoying the magnificence of your surroundings. Dine at the lodge. Overnight at the Greenfire Lodge Hazyview or similar - Breakfast, Dinner

Wake with the birds as we head into the Kruger National Park for a slow meander through the southern section of the park on another full day of game viewing. From the elevated vantage point and comfort of Drifters' custom-built truck (where every seat has a theatre-like view), you'll enjoy front-row seats to your own personal safari. Your expert guide knows this wilderness intimately and intuitively and will take the time to explain the behaviours of the many animals we encounter. You can also expect to learn something new, such as the medicinal benefits of a plant! Lunch in the park is at your own expense. Kruger National Park is one of the planet's last vast preserved wildernesses, and South Africa's top-ranked safari destination. Located in the north-eastern corner of the country, bordering Mozambique, the reserve covers some 12,500 square kms of land. For perspective, this is the equivalent of the size of Israel or Wales! This is the place to immerse yourself in a kingdom of wild animals. Kruger National Park is home to what is famously known as the "Big 5" (lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhinoceros), along with 336 tree, 49 fish, 34 amphibian, 116 reptile, 507 bird, and 147 mammal species. After an invigorating day on safari, we head back to the comfort of our lodge in Hazyview. Dine at the lodge. Overnight at Greenfire Lodge Hazyview or similar - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We depart after breakfast and pass through the provincial capital, Mbombela (Nelspruit), before crossing the border from South Africa into the Kingdom of Eswatini. Formerly known as Swaziland, this diminutive landlocked nation is nestled in the mountains of South Africa. Despite its compact size, it offers an extraordinary experience brimming with cultural richness, breathtaking scenery, and unique encounters. Today, we journey high into the mountains, passing through rural homesteads and scenes of spectacular natural beauty with lunch en route. The area is known for its many traditional craft industries, which we may visit, time permitting. Tonight, we indulge in a traditional home-cooked meal before settling into bed in the clear mountain air, which promotes deep and restful sleep. Overnight at Forester's Arms Hotel - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Winding roads through the picture-perfect Swazi countryside eventually lead us south to a border crossing back into South Africa. We enter Zululand, a powerful regional empire formed by the legendary King Shaka Zulu and home to the Zulu people, South Africa's largest and most influential ethnic group. St Lucia is our base for the next two nights. This charming town is the gateway to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Here, an extraordinary ecosystem reveals diverse landscapes, from verdant wetlands and towering dunes to serene lakes brimming with hippos, crocodiles, and a myriad of bird species. St Lucia's wilderness is unlike any other. Embark on a game drive through the park to spot rhinos, buffaloes, and other big game, followed by a stroll along a secluded beach where you can dip into the warm Indian Ocean waters. Spend time exploring the beach, discovering hidden rock pools, and immersing yourself in the untouched dune forest. Lunch is included on both days. In the evenings, enjoy local cuisine in one of the town's charming restaurants. After dusk, look for hippos wandering the streets in search of food. Overnight at Forest Lodge - Breakfast, Lunch

After breakfast, we continue through the rolling hills of KwaZulu-Natal. Travel back to the battlefields of the Boers, Zulus and British. It's a chilling but fascinating ghost land of historic sites that are a fundamental part of the fabric of modern-day South Africa. This afternoon, we reach the Drakensberg Mountains, a formidable mountain range stretching along South Africa's eastern border (known to locals as the 'Barrier of Spears'). Towering peaks pierce the sky, their basalt slopes often shrouded in mist, creating a dramatic and awe-inspiring landscape. Known as the "Roof of Africa," the Drakensberg represents South Africa's highest point at a staggering 3,482 meters (11,424 feet). A highlight of our stay is a full-day guided hike to the Tugela Gorge, located in the Royal Natal National Park (part of the Drakensberg World Heritage Site). Hike 7km through the stunning Tugela Gorge, surrounded by towering cliffs and lush scenery. Cross rivers, navigate boulders, and enjoy a scenic picnic along the way before reaching breathtaking views. At 948m, the combined drop of the Tugela Falls makes it the highest in the world! All meals are included on both days, and cosy mountain cabins will be our resting place for two nights. Overnight at aha Alpine Heath Resort - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

With tired legs and contented souls, today we head further south towards a lush farming area of undulating hills and valleys known to be one of South Africa's prettiest. Our stop for the night is on a working ranch, where you can appreciate life as a farmer (as actively or passively as you wish!) Tonight's dinner is wholesome, prepared fresh from the farm's gardens. Overnight at Flitwick Ranch or similar - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Departing early, we traverse scenic routes through quaint towns, setting our course for one of the tour's highlights - The Wild Coast, an exhilarating off-the-beaten-track adventure. Formerly an independent homeland, the undeveloped area boasts untouched beaches, pristine estuaries, rolling grasslands, and traditional Xhosa villages. Our two-night stay at Coffee Bay immerses us in the rugged beauty of the Wild Coast. With a full day, we embark on a hike and wild explorations. The highlight is a trek along towering cliffs, deserted shores, and expansive grasslands to reach one of South Africa's most awe-inspiring coastal landmarks - Hole in the Wall. This natural arch, sculpted by centuries of wave action, stands as an offshore island. The more adventurous will want to swim out for a closer look. In the afternoon, surrender fully into the "Robinson Crusoe" experience and soak in the tranquillity of the environment from the comforts of our hotel. Overnight at Ocean View Hotel or similar - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we follow lesser-known roads through the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa, making our way into the Great Karoo, with lunch en route. Cradock is our destination for the day - a historic town in the upper reaches of the Great Fish River valley dating back to the mid-1800s. We journey into the past on an afternoon walking tour with a local guide before enjoying an evening of old-fashioned hospitality and a home-cooked dinner. Overnight at Tuishuise & Victoria Manor or similar - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today is an early start to reach Mountain Zebra National Park as the gate opens. This standalone park is uniquely positioned in the semi-desert of the Great Karoo, home to the endangered mountain zebra, springbok, ostrich, cheetah, buffalo, black rhino, and an array of birdlife. We spend a few hours in search of animals and taking in the spectacular views before returning to the hotel for a sumptuous breakfast. It's time to leave Cradock and head for the renowned Addo Elephant National Park, another unique environment in the succulent shrubs of the rhenosterveld. Our journey from north to south will reveal elephants, buffalo and other animals at close range. Exiting in the late afternoon, we travel the short distance back to the coast and to our beachfront hotel in the stunning Gqeberha, also known as Nelson Mandela Bay. Spend the evening strolling along the promenade and enjoying one of many local eateries for dinner. Overnight at The Beach Hotel or similar - Breakfast

After breakfast, it's time to continue our journey along the Garden Route, regarded as one of South Africa's most popular tourism hotspots, and for good reason. The route will reveal spectacularly beautiful landscapes - rugged coastlines, pristine sandy beaches, forests, mountains, gorges, lakes and rivers interspersed by quaint towns and bustling beach cities. We'll stop to explore some of the highlights, including a 2km walk in the Tsitsikamma National Park on a thrilling 76-metre suspension bridge spanning the dramatic Storms River mouth. The road leads us to the quaint coastal town of Knysna, with its charming waterfront, colourful houses, and vibrant atmosphere. Knysna is a gem in a natural Garden of Eden, surrounded by indigenous forests, fynbos and lagoons. It's a popular spot for enjoying fresh seafood (the oysters are legendary) and exploring shops filled with handcrafted furniture and other local wares made from the area's famous yellowwood and stinkwood trees. We'll spend the rest of the day enjoying the town's many attractions. Overnight at The Rex Hotel or similar - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we'll follow the coast through small towns as we make our way down to Cape Agulhas. Aptly named "Cape of Needles" for its treacherous rocks, this historic spot is at the southernmost tip of Africa. With its rocky coastline and sandy beaches, it invites us to stand and witness the symbolic convergence of two vast seas: the warm Indian and cold Atlantic Oceans. There's no hurry, and we'll savour a picnic lunch before heading to our resting place for the night in Arniston. Also known as Kassiesbaai (Afrikaans for "seashell bay"), this gorgeous seaside village is renowned for its pristine beaches, whitewashed fisherman's cottages, and laid-back atmosphere. An afternoon walk down to the vast sea cave, Waenhuiskrans, is highly recommended. Overnight at the Arniston Hotel / Manor House or similar - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We enjoy a relaxed morning along the famed Whale Route, a scenic coastal drive to Hermanus, renowned as the "Whale Capital of the World" for its land-based whale watching during the May-to-November season. Take in the panoramic views of the turquoise ocean, framed by the Hottentots Holland Mountains. Our adventure continues along the picturesque coastline towards Betty's Bay, home to a colony of charismatic African penguins. Watch these fascinating and playful birds waddling along the beach, preening their feathers, and diving into the calm ocean waters. This afternoon, we travel one of the world's most beautiful coastal routes along the edge of False Bay before reaching our destination - the "Mother City" in the late afternoon. Cape Town is rated as one of the best cities in the world for its award-winning wine farms, world-class restaurants, high fashion, vibrant nightlife, rich culture, and incredible natural beauty. We highly recommend that you take a few extra days to explore, and we will gladly assist you with your arrangements. Our hotel for the night is conveniently located near the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront and the Atlantic Seaboard promenade. Overnight at the aha Harbour Bridge Hotel or similar - Breakfast

Enjoy breakfast at the hotel and spend the morning at leisure. The transfer to the airport is at your own expense and your own arrangements. OPTIONAL Post-night at aha Harbour Bridge Hotel & Suites or similar - Breakfast