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Sensational South Africa

19 days

SMALL GROUP LODGE SAFARI: See the best of South Africa's wildlife, scenery, and the kingdoms of Lesotho and Eswatini on this 19-day group tour from Cape Town to Johannesburg. Search for wildlife in Kruger National Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. Ride the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain in Cape Town, journey along the famous Garden Route, and soak up the scenery of the Drakensberg Mountains.

For a detailed itinerary and information about visas, money, weather and more download our Trip Notes

Tour Overview

Duration

19 days

Starts

Cape Town

Ends

Johannesburg

Range

Handpicked

Tour Guide

Yes - escorted by a tour guide/driver

Group Size

Min 4 / Max 16

Minimum age

10 yrs, accompanied by an adult

Departs

January, March & November 2024

Hotel Rating

Mid-range lodges, hotels & chalets

Countries

South Africa

Arrival Transfer

Yes

Departure Transfer

Yes

Meals included

Breakfast: 17, Lunch: 2, Dinner: 9
Per Person From

Tour Highlights

Cape Town - Take in the Cape Peninsula, ride the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain and explore South Africa's 'Mother City' independently
Kruger National Park - Search for the Big Five and other iconic African wildlife during a three-night stay in South Africa's premier national park
The Garden Route - Admire some of the world's most beautiful scenery as you travel along a stretch of this gorgeous coastline, taking in Knysna and Tsitsikamma
iSimangaliso Wetland Park - Spot rhinos and hippos in this diverse wetland reserve, explore the landscape on a 4X4 safari, and enjoy snorkelling at the coast
Eswatini - Discover rare wildlife on foot or horseback as we explore Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary and visit a local Swazi market
Lesotho - Explore this mountain kingdom independently, with optional village walks and pony trekking amongst the dramatic scenery
Drakensberg - Spend two nights in the scenic Drakensberg Mountains, with time for guided hikes to visit the impressive amphitheatre cliff face
Cradock - Stay in a Victorian-era Tuishuise, former craftsmen's houses that are now popular with visitors to the colonial town on the edge of the Great Karoo

Included

18 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 8 dinners
18 nights mid-range (3-4 star) lodges, hotels, and chalets with ensuite facilities
Airport arrival and departure transfers in Cape Town and Johannesburg
Cape Peninsula full day tour and Table Mountain cable car ride
Full day iSimangaliso Wetland Park excursion with snorkelling
One late afternoon and one full day game drive in Kruger National Park
Panorama Route full day excursion
Escorted by a licensed African tour guide, who is also your driver
Transportation in a 16-seater Mercedes Sprinter vehicle (with comfortable reclining seats, air-conditioning, USB ports and sliding windows)
Park entrance fees

Not Included

International flights and visas
Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
Optional activities
Local Payment: R 3,500.00pp paid in ZAR

Itinerary

Day 1 - Welcome to South Africa!

On your arrival in Cape Town, there is an included transfer to the hotel. At 18:00 there will be a pre-departure meeting in the lobby, and the rest of today is free to head out and explore South Africa's 'Mother City'.

Overnight: Cape Town

Days 2-3 - Exploring Cape Town

Cape Town is South Africa's most famous destination, and we'll have two whole days to explore the city and surrounding area. On day 2 there's an included guided tour of the Cape Peninsula. We visit Table Mountain National Park for majestic views of this famous landmark and for an included ride on the cable car to the summit (weather permitting). We also stop off at Boulders Beach to see the giant penguin colony here, and we take in some of the region's stunning coastal scenery, including Hout Bay and Chapman's Peak.

Day 3 is at leisure to see more of the city your way. Some of the activities we recommend are a day trip to Robben Island or a wander down to the V&A Waterfront, but you can spend the day how you wish!

Overnight: Cape Town (2)
Meals: Breakfast x2

Days 4-5 - Scenic Knysna

Cape Town - Knysna. Leaving Cape Town on the morning of day 4 we travel to the lush Garden Route. Passing many lakes, beaches and forests we drive to Knysna – the coastal town located on the shores of Knysna Lagoon. The afternoon is free to stroll around the town or book a sunset boat cruise on the lagoon.

Spend the next day at leisure. Soak up the scenery or book one of the many optional activities available. You could visit Knysna Elephant Park or tuck into some fresh seafood at one of the many restaurants on the shore of Knysna Lagoon.

Overnight: Knysna (2)
Meals: Breakfast x2

Day 6 - Tsitsikamma National Park

Knysna - Tsitsikamma. Our scenic journey along the Garden Route continues today, stopping at attractions along the way and visiting Plettenberg Bay with its beautiful beaches. Arriving in the picturesque Tsitsikamma Forest, there's time for walking or relaxing at our lodge. The Tsitsikamma Forest is a protected coastal reserve, known for its lush indigenous forests and impressive coastline.

Overnight: Tsitsikamma National Park
Meals: Breakfast

Day 7 - Colonial Cradock

Tsitsikamma - Cradock. Today we travel onwards to the historic town of Cradock. This frontier town is located on the edge of the Great Karoo desert and is best known for Die Tuishuise, a collection of around 30 colonial Victorian-era craftsmen's houses, which have now been restored and turned into guest accommodation. We will spend tonight staying at one of the Tuishuise, and there is time to walk the length of Market Street, which is crowned by the grand colonial-era Victoria Manor Hotel.

Overnight: Cradock
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Days 8-9 - The Kingdom of Lesotho

Cradock - Lesotho. You can tick another country off your bucket list as we travel through the Eastern Cape and cross into the mountainous Kingdom of Lesotho on day 8. The following day is free for you to explore and enjoy optional activities including village walks and pony trekking.

Overnight: Lesotho (2)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Dinner x2

Days 10-11 - Drakensberg Mountains

Lesotho - Drakensberg (South Africa). Crossing back into South Africa, we journey into the Drakensberg Mountains on day 10. The scenery here is spectacular even by South African standards, and our lodge is located near the amphitheatre, regarded as one of the most impressive cliff faces on Earth. Day 11 is free to further explore this mountain landscape with guided walks, or you can simply sit back with a drink and take in your incredible surroundings.

Overnight: Drakensberg Mountains (2)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch, Dinner x2

Days 12-13 - Zululand, St Lucia & Wildlife

Drakensberg - iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Day 12 sees us travelling through the Zululand region of South Africa, arriving at the small coastal town of St Lucia in the afternoon. St Lucia is the base for exploring iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which was designated as South Africa's first UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1999. And it's easy to see why.

This part of the country is renowned for its ecology and wildlife, particularly the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which we visit. On day 13 we head into the wilderness on an off-road exploration, taking in some of the many ecosystems which make up this diverse area. Travel through bush, forest, and beach in one day, and enjoy game viewing, birdwatching, and snorkelling at the coast, with possible whale-watching opportunities. Other iconic wildlife to look out for today includes hippos, rhinos, elephants and leopards!

Overnight: St Lucia (2)
Meals: Breakfast x2, Lunch, Dinner x2

Day 14 - The Kingdom of Eswatini

iSimangaliso Wetland Park - Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (Eswatini). Today we explore the second landlocked country surrounded by South African territory. Eswatini was formerly known as Swaziland until 2018. We'll be exploring Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, the country's premier wildlife destination and a great example of conservation in action. Formerly a working farm, this 4,560-hectare reserve is now home to all manner of species, including hippo, hyena, zebra, and more. There are no (or very few) large predators, so the best way to explore the park is on foot or horseback, which we will have the opportunity to do. You can also opt to visit a local Swazi village, and we will stop at a Swazi market so you can shop for souvenirs.

Overnight: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Days 15-17 - Kruger National Park

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - Kruger National Park (South Africa). We depart Eswatini and travel to the world-famous Kruger National Park on day 15. We go in search of the iconic Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, buffalo) on a late afternoon game drive and enjoy a full day game drive on day 16, both in open 4X4 vehicles for the best game-viewing experience.

On day 17 we take in some of the landmarks in the area, along the scenic Panorama Route. See the Blyde River Canyon, enjoy the view from God's Window, and visit the Bourke's Luck Potholes, a series of geological formations which are linked by walkways and bridges.

Overnight: Hazyview (3)
Meals: Breakfast x3

Days 18-19 - Johannesburg

Kruger National Park - Johannesburg. Departing Kruger National Park on day 18 we travel on to Johannesburg, arriving late afternoon. Our tour ends on day 19 with an included transfer to Johannesburg's O.R. Tambo Airport.

Overnight: Johannesburg (1)
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Extras and add-ons

If you'd like to add extras or add-ons to your booking, you can do this easily during checkout. Just review the available options and select any additional services or upgrades you'd like before completing your purchase.

Pre and Post Tour Accommodation

Extend your tour with us by booking pre and post-accommodation, available at a per-person, per-night rate.

Post Tour Accommodation - Johannesburg

Double

$185per passenger

Twin

$185per passenger

Single

$275per passenger

Hotels

The hotels listed below are ones which we frequently use on this tour. We reserve the right to substitute these hotels to ones of a similar standard.

If you are interested in booking pre or post-tour accommodation, here are some of the hotels we typically use.

Protea Hotel by Marriott Cape Town Waterfront Breakwater Lodge
Cape Town

Set in a restored 19th-century prison, the unique Protea by Marriott is now a modern hotel on the V&A Waterfront, with great views of Table Mountain. The ensuite rooms feature full-length windows, TV, minibar, air-conditioning, and a chair or sofa. High-speed Wi-Fi is complimentary. Breakfast and other meals are served at the a la carte Stonebreakers restaurant, and there's also a ground floor cafe to enjoy. Guests can also make use of the onsite gym.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Knysna Hollow Country Estate
Knysna

Knysna Hollow is a small and friendly resort located on a 3-hectare estate in some of the best scenery on the picturesque Garden Route. It's located just a 5-minute drive from Knysna itself and is open again after a 2018 refurbishment following fire damage. The 44 garden suites are all modern and stylishly decorated. Every room features air-conditioning, a patio, ensuite bathroom, and flat-screen TV. There are two outdoor swimming pools set in verdant gardens and free Wi-Fi is provided. The majority of the hotel's amenities, including bar, restaurant, reception, and sun deck are located in the Cape Country Manor House, the grand focal point of the estate.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel
Tsitsikamma Village Inn
Tsitsikamma National Park

Established in 1946, the Tsitsikamma Village Inn is a village style accommodation close to Tsitsikamma National Park. The 49 guest rooms are all individually decorated in a number of free standing buildings. All are decorated in the colonial style famous on the Garden Route. The Inn is home to the relaxed Hunter's Pub which serves a good range of refreshing beverages. There is also a beautiful outdoor pool - perfect for an early morning dip. This accommodation is well located at the end of the Garden Route, in beautiful Tsitsikamma.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Lodge
Die Tuishuise
Cradock

Built in 1840, Die Tuishuise has been beautifully restored to their former splendour to recreate the gracious bygone era. All rooms are tastefully decorated with their own distinctive theme of antique furniture and period prints. Guests can enjoy dinner in the Manor House that serves delicious Karoo and South African cuisine. Guests can also indulge in a unique African Hum and Sun massage at the onsite spa. It is a great way to feel rejuvenated after a long day in the African sun. This accommodation is perfectly located on Market Street in Cradock.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Lodge
Malealea Lodge
Malealea

Surrounded by beautiful landscapes and spectacular mountain passes, the Malealea Lodge is a great place to base yourself when visiting the area. Guest rooms are made up of traditional Rondavels and farmhouse bedrooms - all with en suite facilities. The on site Pony Trekking Centre offers a great selections of rides - a must do when in Lesotho. The really adventurous can even head out on an overnight trek! Situated in the remote rural region of south-western Lesotho.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Lodge
The Cavern
Drakensberg Mountains

Named after a massive cave above the hotel, the Cavern sits within 3000 hectares of private mountain reserve. Guest rooms are beautifully designed with spacious interiors and excellent amenities. The lodge boasts a beautiful outdoor pool and some of the best views of the area. When staying at the Cavern guests can take advantage of a plethora of activities on offer including trout fishing, guided hikes and horse rides. Well located in the heart of the Drakensberg mountains just north of neighbouring Lesotho.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Lodge
St Lucia Eco Lodge
iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Spectacularly located beside the Indian Ocean and surrounded by the UNESCO-listed iSimangaliso Wetland Park, the St Lucia Eco Lodge offers comfortable accommodation for up to 72 guests in its 29 units. Each unit has a balcony or veranda, air-conditioning, kitchenette, TV, and a tea and coffee station. There's an outdoor pool and free Wi-Fi throughout the property, with a daily buffet breakfast and a braai fire is lit every night. Being so close to the biodiverse wetlands, it is not unusual to spot a hippo, or even a leopard wandering through the gardens of the lodge.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
Mid Range Lodge
Beehive Village
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

Beehive Village has grass-domed beehive huts arranged in semi-circles. Rustic simplicity makes for a fascinating stay and while most have an en-suite bathroom there are shared ablution facilities available.

Our Rating
Standard
Local Rating
Standard Lodge
Hippo Hollow Country Estate
Kruger National Park

Hippo Hollow Country Estate is a family-friendly hotel located on the banks of the Sabi River on the edge of the Kruger ecosystem. Accommodation is in thatched chalets and traditional standard rooms. Set amongst well-maintained gardens (often with visitors in the form of elephants and other wildlife), there are two outdoor swimming pools and an onsite restaurant with views of a popular hippo gathering spot. Outdoor patio areas and ensuite bathrooms come as standard and the constant sound of the flowing river adds a tranquil element to this charming hotel. There's free Wi-Fi in public areas.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
Mid Range Lodge
The Safari Club
Johannesburg

African-themed Safari Club is a luxurious yet homely accommodation close to Johannesburg airport. With just 17 rooms all uniquely styled to represent a specific area on the continent it is easy to make yourself at home here. The hotel boasts a beautiful garden and serves fantastic food for breakfast, lunch and dinner. The friendly bar is the perfect place to relax in the evening whilst sipping on a tasty beverage or two. The hotel is situated just a 4 minute drive from the airport - so it is the ideal place to start, or finish, your African adventure.

Our Rating
Superior
Local Rating
4 Star Hotel

Prices & Dates

All departures are guaranteed with a minimum of 4 persons. This safari has a maximum group size of 16. The 'Twin' price is per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. The 'Single Room' price is applicable to all solo travellers, or if your booking party cannot reach the minimum of 2 persons in a room. Single Rooms can also be booked by any other person wanting the comfort and privacy of their own room.

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