Day 1 - Welcome to Johannesburg
Your South African adventure begins upon arrival in Johannesburg, the vibrant heart of South Africa. After a smooth airport transfer, settle into your hotel and take some time to absorb the city’s energetic atmosphere. In the evening, meet your Travel Director and fellow travellers over a welcome dinner, sharing stories and excitement as you prepare for the unforgettable journey ahead.
Accommodation: The Maslow Hotel Johannesburg
Meals: Dinner
Day 2 - Journey to the Kruger National Park Area
Depart Johannesburg and travel through the golden Highveld toward the lush Lowveld. Along Mpumalanga’s iconic Panorama Route, pause to marvel at the spectacular Blyde River Canyon, the panoramic vistas of God’s Window, and the fascinating geological formations at Bourke’s Luck Potholes. As the afternoon unfolds, continue to your hotel near Kruger National Park, ready to immerse yourself in the wildlife adventures that await over the next two days.
Accommodation: Sabi River Sun Resort, Hazyview
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experience: Scenic Drive Along Panorama Route
Day 3 - Safari in Kruger National Park
Rise early for a guided safari through Kruger National Park, South Africa’s most iconic wildlife sanctuary. Journey with a Local Specialist as you search for the Big Five, the Little Five, and a variety of fascinating creatures in their natural habitat. Notice the delicate golden orb spider waiting on her web, inhale the earthy aroma of the morning bush, and keep your eyes on the ground for animal tracks. Spend your afternoon at leisure, soaking up the serene bushveld atmosphere.
Accommodation: Sabi River Sun Resort, Hazyview
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experience: Kruger National Park Safari
Day 4 - Onwards to Eswatini
Cross into the Kingdom of Eswatini, a small nation brimming with colour and culture. Visit a Swazi Chief’s village to meet the local community, observe their traditional ceremonies, and sample hearty local dishes such as pap and stew. Roll up your sleeves for a hands-on drumming session, admire the vivid crimson attire, and feel the energy of this vibrant culture as you gain a meaningful insight into daily life in Eswatini.
Accommodation: Royal Swazi Spa Hotel, Mbabane
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experience: Visit a Local Chief’s Village in Eswatini
Day 5 - Head to Hluhluwe
Journey to KwaZulu-Natal’s northern wilderness, the “garden province,” where lush valleys and rolling sugarcane fields stretch as far as the eye can see. Arrive at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park, one of South Africa’s oldest reserves, home to abundant wildlife and conservation history. In the evening, savour a traditional South African braai, enjoying local flavours and the warmth of this remarkable region.
Accommodation: ANEW Hotel, Hluhluwe
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Experiences: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Drive
Day 6 - Venture to Durban (Umhlanga Rocks)
Travel south along the scenic coastline to Durban, a vibrant tropical city on South Africa’s east coast. Delight in a delicious curry buffet at the legendary Oyster Box Hotel, where you can take in the ocean views from the garden terrace and soak up the hotel’s nostalgic charm. Spend the day exploring Durban at your leisure, absorbing its colourful streets, buzzing markets, and warm coastal atmosphere.
Accommodation: The Oyster Box, Durban
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experience: Durban Orientation
Optional Experiences: St. Lucia Boat Cruise
Day 7 - Make Tracks for the Drakensberg Mountains
Venture through the scenic Valley of 1000 Hills, where rolling landscapes, traditional villages, and vibrant markets create a feast for the senses. Continue toward the foothills of the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, with their dramatic cliffs and valleys, and enjoy the afternoon at leisure, soaking up the serene beauty and fresh mountain air.
Accommodation: Premier Resort Sani Pass, Southern Drakensberg
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experience: Valley of 1000 Hills Scenic Drive
Day 8 - A Day in the Drakensberg
Spend a full day exploring the Drakensberg Mountains, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Wander through dramatic peaks and valleys at your own pace, breathe in the crisp mountain air, and connect with one of South Africa’s most breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you choose to relax or explore, the Drakensberg offers unforgettable views and a sense of peaceful isolation.
Accommodation: Premier Resort Sani Pass, Southern Drakensberg
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Experiences: 4×4 Sani Pass Adventure
Day 9 - On the Road to the Eastern Cape Beaches
Travel from the mountains to South Africa’s untamed Eastern Cape coast, passing through rolling green hills dotted with traditional Xhosa villages. Visit Xunu, the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, and take in the historical significance of this region. Arrive in Chintsa, where pristine Wild Coast beaches invite you to relax and explore, leaving only your footprints on the soft sand.
Accommodation: Crawfords Beach Lodge, Eastern Cape
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experience: Xunu Orientation
Day 10 - Travel to Gqeberha
Wake to the sound of the ocean before travelling to Gqeberha, formerly known as Port Elizabeth. Explore this welcoming city at your own pace, discovering its charming waterfront, historical architecture, and friendly atmosphere. Whether strolling along the boardwalk or enjoying the local cuisine, Gqeberha offers a relaxed urban escape.
Accommodation: Boardwalk Hotel, Gqeberha
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experience: Gqeberha Orientation
Day 11 - n to Tsitsikamma National Park and Knysna
Enter the tranquil forests of Tsitsikamma National Park, walking beneath towering Yellowwoods and arriving at the breathtaking Storms River Mouth. Continue to Knysna for a Be My Guest experience with local host Ella, enjoying a traditional Xhosa meal while learning about local customs, language, and songs. This immersive cultural experience supports the community and offers a personal connection to South Africa’s diverse heritage.
Accommodation: Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Meals: Breakfast, Be My Guest
Included Experience: Knysna Traditional Meal, Visit the Emzini Organisation in Knys
Day 12 - Knysna Your Way
Enjoy a free day to explore Knysna at your leisure. Sip coffee overlooking the lagoon, stroll through charming streets and boutiques, or simply take in the serene beauty of the Garden Route. This day offers the perfect opportunity to immerse yourself in the local lifestyle and enjoy the town’s relaxed pace.
Accommodation: Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Meals: Breakfast
Optional Experiences: Featherbed Nature Reserve Tour
Day 13 - Continue to Cape Town
Leave the Garden Route behind and journey to Cape Town, winding through scenic coastal towns and the Cape Winelands. Upon arrival, ascend Table Mountain by cable car (weather permitting) and marvel at sweeping views of the city, Table Bay, and the Atlantic Ocean—a breathtaking introduction to the Mother City.
Accommodation: Southern Sun The Cullinan, Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast
Included Experience: Cape Town Orientation
Optional Experiences: Table Mountain Cable Car Ride
Day 14 - Cape Town Your Way
Spend the day exploring Cape Town at your own pace, from hidden streets and boutique shops to the cosmopolitan energy of its vibrant squares. In the evening, gather with your travelling companions for a farewell dinner, enjoying traditional Cape Malay cuisine and reflecting on your unforgettable South African adventure.
Accommodation: Southern Sun The Cullinan, Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Optional Experiences: Cape Peninsula Tour, Cape Winelands Tour, Robben Island Tour, Cape Town Helicopter Flight
Day 15 - Farewell South Africa
After breakfast, bid farewell to Cape Town and transfer to the airport for your onward journey, carrying memories of South Africa’s landscapes, wildlife, and rich cultural heritage.
Meals: Breakfast
