Sensational South Africa Southbound - 19 days
Sensational South Africa Southbound - 19 days
19 Days Starting in Johannesburg, South Africa and ending in Cape Town, South Africa
Visiting: Johannesburg, Hazyview, Kruger National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, St Lucia, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, Drakensberg Mountains, Drakensberg, Malealea, Cradock, Tsitsikamma National Park, Knysna, Cape Town
Tour operator:
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
2 - 16
Age range:
10-
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on a 19-day adventure through the heart of South Africa with the "Sensational South Africa Southbound" tour. Begin your journey in Johannesburg, exploring the breathtaking Panorama Route before delving into the wilds of Kruger National Park for thrilling game drives in search of the Big Five. Discover the cultural richness of Eswatini at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, and marvel at the biodiversity of iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Experience the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and the unique landscapes of Lesotho. Wander through the historic town of Cradock and traverse the stunning Garden Route, visiting Tsitsikamma and Knysna. Conclude your journey in vibrant Cape Town, with its iconic Table Mountain and scenic Cape Peninsula. Enjoy comfortable accommodations, guided tours, and unforgettable experiences in this small group safari tour.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Johannesburg
Location: Johannesburg
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Dinner
Welcome to South Africa! You will be met at O.R. Tambo Airport and transferred to our hotel. Spend the rest of the day at leisure.
Day 2: Johannesburg
Location: Hazyview
Accommodation Name: Hazyview
Meals Included: Breakfast
Johannesburg - Hazyview. We depart Johannesburg at 08:00 and set off on our journey to Hazyview, gateway to Kruger National Park. Travelling along the scenic Panorama Route we stop to see the spectacular 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. We arrive at our lodge late afternoon.
Day 3-4: Kruger National Park
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: Hazyview
Meals Included: Breakfast
Kruger is the largest game reserve in South Africa, home to the Big Five, as well as numerous other species of fauna and flora. Day 3 is spent on safari in Kruger National Park. We have a full-day game drive in open 4x4 vehicles, meaning we will hopefully see plenty of Kruger's incredible wildlife. The following day we go in search of the Big Five again on a late afternoon game drive.
Day 5: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Accommodation Name: camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Hazyview - Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (Eswatini). Today we explore one of the two landlocked countries 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.
Day 6-7: St Lucia
Location: St Lucia
Accommodation Name: St Lucia
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - iSimangaliso Wetland Park (South Africa). Day 6 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.
The following day we enjoy a full day, off-road excursion around this pristine (Eastern Shores) area - including an ecological overview of the area, wonderful game-viewing, bird-watching, short walks and a visit to Cape Vidal with snorkeling and whale-watching in season. Learn more about the five eco-systems that make up this unique park. Experience the Bush, Forest and Beach all in one day! Full braai (barbecue) lunch, snorkeling gear and drinks included.
Day 8-9: Drakensberg Mountains
Location: Drakensberg Mountains
Accommodation Name: Drakensberg Mountains
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
iSimangaliso Wetland Park - Drakensberg. We journey into the Drakensberg Mountains on day 8. 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. The region is also listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and day 9 is free to further explore this mountain landscape with guided walks. Alternatively, you can simply sit back with a drink and take in your incredible surroundings.
Day 10-11: Malealea
Location: Drakensberg
Accommodation Name: Lesotho
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Drakensberg - 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 10. Our time here is free for you to explore and enjoy optional activities including village walks and pony trekking.
Day 12: Cradock
Location: Cradock
Accommodation Name: Tuishuise
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Lesotho - Cradock (South Africa). Today we journey back across the border into South Africa and continue 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.
Day 13: Tsitsikamma National Park
Location: Tsitsikamma National Park
Accommodation Name: lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cradock - Tsitsikamma. Today we begin our epic journey along the picturesque Garden Route, home to some of South Africa's best scenery. Our first stop is Tsitsikamma Forest, where 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.
Day 14-15: Knysna
Location: Knysna
Accommodation Name: Knysna
Meals Included: Breakfast
Tsitsikamma - Knysna. Leaving the Tsitsikamma Forest behind we continue along the world-famous Garden Route to Knysna, a small town situated on the coast and nestled among some of the world's finest scenery. Along the way, we pass lush lakes, verdant forests, and idyllic beaches. We'll stop at Plettenberg Bay en route, with time to relax on the beach. The afternoon is at leisure in Knysna.
The next day is free to 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.
Day 16-18: Cape Town
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast
Knysna - Cape Town. Day 16 sees us complete our South African journey, travelling on to Cape Town, perhaps the country's most famous destination.
We have two whole days to explore the city and surrounding area. On day 17 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 18 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!
Day 19: Cape Town
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today your tour comes to an end. Tuck into breakfast at the hotel before your included airport departure transfer.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Mid-range lodges, hotels and chalets -
18 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 8 dinners
Enjoy 18 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 8 dinners during your tour.
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18 nights mid-range (3-4 star) lodges, hotels, and chalets with ensuite facilities
Stay in mid-range lodges, hotels, and chalets with ensuite facilities for 18 nights.
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Airport arrival and departure transfers in Johannesburg and Cape Town
Airport transfers are included upon arrival in Johannesburg and departure from Cape Town.
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One late afternoon and one full day game drive in Kruger National Park
Experience a late afternoon and a full day game drive in Kruger National Park.
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Panorama Route full day excursion
Enjoy a full day excursion along the scenic Panorama Route.
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Full day iSimangaliso Wetland Park excursion with snorkelling
Participate in a full day excursion to iSimangaliso Wetland Park, including snorkelling.
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Cape Peninsula full day tour and Table Mountain cable car ride
Take a full day tour of the Cape Peninsula and ride the cable car to the summit of Table Mountain.
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Escorted by a licensed African tour guide, who is also your driver
The tour is escorted by a licensed African tour guide, who also serves as your driver.
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Transportation in a 16-seater Mercedes Sprinter vehicle
Travel in a 16-seater Mercedes Sprinter vehicle with comfortable reclining seats, air-conditioning, USB ports, and sliding windows.
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Park entrance fees
All park entrance fees are included in the tour.
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
International flights and visas are not included in the tour package.
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Tipping
Tipping is not included and is an entirely personal gesture.
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Optional activities
Optional activities are not included in the tour package.
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Local payment - ZAR 3500, paid locally in cash
A local payment of ZAR 3500 is required and must be paid in cash.
Age Policy
Average age 40s - 70s but flexible age policy. Minimum age 10.If travelling with children parents need to be aware of the very long driving days (distances noted in the trip notes). Rooms for families - one child up to 17 yrs old can share a room with 2 adults. We have child rates for 12 and under. Children 13 + pay full price. IMPORTANT: South Africa and Botswana regulations aimed at fighting child trafficking:'All parents travelling with children into or out of SA and/or Botswana may be asked to show the child’s unabridged (full) birth certificate, and where only one parent is accompanying, parental or legal consent for the child to travel (eg an affidavit from the other parent, a court order or – if applicable – a death certificate). Tell pax they must contact the South African High Commission, South African Department of Home Affairs and/or the Botswana High Commission for the most up to date information.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with airport transfers in Johannesburg and Cape Town, and explore the region in a 16-seater Mercedes Sprinter vehicle equipped with comfortable reclining seats, air-conditioning, USB ports, and sliding windows.
Accommodation
Enjoy 18 nights in mid-range (3-4 star) lodges, hotels, and chalets with ensuite facilities, offering comfort and convenience throughout your South African adventure.
Check out our Q&As
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What kind of wildlife can we expect to see in Kruger National Park?
In Kruger National Park, you can expect to see the Big Five, which includes lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo, as well as numerous other species of fauna and flora.
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What activities are available at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in Eswatini?
At Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, you can explore the park on foot or horseback due to the absence of large predators. There is also an opportunity to visit a local Swazi village and shop at a Swazi market.
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What is included in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park excursion?
The iSimangaliso Wetland Park excursion includes an off-road tour with game-viewing, bird-watching, short walks, and a visit to Cape Vidal for snorkeling and whale-watching in season. A full braai (barbecue) lunch, snorkeling gear, and drinks are included.
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What can we do during our stay in the Drakensberg Mountains?
During your stay in the Drakensberg Mountains, you can explore the mountain landscape with guided walks or simply relax and enjoy the spectacular scenery near the amphitheatre cliff face.
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What optional activities are available in Lesotho?
In Lesotho, you can enjoy optional activities such as village walks and pony trekking among the dramatic mountain scenery.
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What is unique about the accommodation in Cradock?
In Cradock, you will stay in Die Tuishuise, which are restored colonial Victorian-era craftsmen's houses that have been turned into guest accommodations.
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What can we expect to see and do along the Garden Route?
Along the Garden Route, you will experience some of South Africa's most beautiful scenery, including lush lakes, verdant forests, and idyllic beaches. You will visit places like Tsitsikamma Forest and Knysna, with opportunities for beach relaxation and optional activities like visiting Knysna Elephant Park.
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What are the highlights of the Cape Peninsula tour in Cape Town?
The Cape Peninsula tour includes a visit to Table Mountain National Park with a cable car ride to the summit, a stop at Boulders Beach to see the penguin colony, and views of stunning coastal scenery including Hout Bay and Chapman's Peak.
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
Reviews of this operator
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Wednesday - Sunday
Dec 04, 2024 - Dec 22, 2024Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.