Kruger Park 5 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 water hole 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, 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. Witness the marvel of Bourke's Luck Potholes, formed over millions of years by the relentless force of water, carving mammoth cylindrical holes into rock, before we arrive at God's Window, aptly named for its unparalleled panoramic view of the Lowveld. 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 theater-like view), you'll enjoy front-row seats to your 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 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, Dinner

After a relaxed breakfast, we make our way back to Johannesburg along the original route pioneered by early gold diggers, via Sabie. Drop-off at OR Tambo International Airport or a Sandton hotel in the late afternoon. OPTIONAL Post-night at Protea Hotel by Marriott Balalaika Sandton or similar - Breakfast