Kruger National Park
Itinerary
20 Km
On arrival in Johannesburg, you will be warmly met by your tour guide. Once the group is complete, we will drive directly to our hotel near the airport, providing a comfortable place to rest and recover from the journey.
We will spend two nights in Johannesburg, allowing time to adjust and prepare for the adventure ahead.
Included:
Overnight: Birchwood
40 Km
This morning we set out to explore Soweto, South Africa’s most famous township and a place rich in history and resilience. Our first stop is the Hector Pieterson Museum, dedicated to the memory of the 1976 student uprisings. Hector Pieterson, a young boy whose tragic death became a symbol of the struggle against apartheid, reminds us of the courage and sacrifices made during this pivotal time.
Afterwards, we pause for coffee in the historic Vilakazi Street — the only street in the world where two Nobel Peace Prize laureates once lived: Nelson Mandela and Archbishop Desmond Tutu.
We then continue to Pretoria, the elegant administrative capital of South Africa, where a city tour introduces us to its rich blend of history and architecture. Highlights include the imposing Voortrekker Monument, the historic Church Square, and the impressive Union Buildings, seat of government.
Driving through the streets, we pass under the purple canopy of Jacaranda trees, which lend Pretoria its nickname, the “Jacaranda City.” (Seasonal)
In the late afternoon, we return to the hotel for a well-deserved rest.
Included: Breakfast, Hector Peterson Museum, Voortrekker Monument,
Welcome Dinner
Overnight: Birchwood Hotel
40 Km
We depart early this morning and travel across the Highveld, a region of vast open plains and endless skies. Along the way, golden maize fields and wide stretches of grassland roll past our windows, a classic South African landscape dotted with small rural communities.
Our route takes us through charming towns such as Belfast, Dullstroom — famous for its trout fishing and misty hills — and Lydenburg, a gateway to the Drakensberg escarpment.
Crossing the dramatic Abel Erasmus Pass, we descend into the warm, subtropical Lowveld, where the scenery transforms into rugged cliffs, lush vegetation, and winding valleys.
On arrival at our lodge, there will be time to settle in before the opportunity to join an optional sunset safari. As dusk falls, the bush comes alive — nocturnal animals awaken, predators stir, and the fading light casts a golden glow over the savannah, creating a magical atmosphere for wildlife viewing.
Included: Breakfast
Overnight: Timbavati Safari Lodge
40 Km
Today marks your first full introduction to the legendary Kruger National Park, one of the most celebrated wildlife reserves in the world. (For those who joined the optional safari last night, the adventure continues!)
Our lodge in Hoedspruit lies right on the edge of the park — the perfect base for a full day of exploration. We set off early in the morning, when the bush is at its most active, maximizing our chances of encountering a wide range of animals.
Travelling in open game drive vehicles, we are guided by professional rangers who share their deep knowledge of the park and help us spot its hidden treasures. With their expert eyes, the wilderness comes alive — from the smallest antelope to the mighty elephant.
Of course, today’s challenge is to seek out the famous Big Five — lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, and rhino. Each sighting brings a rush of excitement, whether it’s a herd of elephants at a waterhole, a lion dozing in the shade, or the elusive leopard moving silently through the bush.
We will be out for most of the day, pausing for a picnic lunch inside the park, surrounded by the sights and sounds of the African wilderness.
This unforgettable experience is truly a highlight of any journey through Southern Africa.
Included: Packed Breakfast, Full day open vehicle game drive
Overnight: Timbavati Safari Lodge
40 Km
This morning we cross the Abel Erasmus Pass, a scenic route that leads us into the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon, the third largest canyon in the world. The dramatic landscapes here never fail to impress — sheer cliffs, lush greenery, and sweeping views stretching to the horizon.
We stop at the famous Three Rondavels viewpoint, where three towering peaks resemble traditional African huts, offering one of the canyon’s most iconic panoramas.
Our journey continues to Bourke’s Luck Potholes, where centuries of swirling water at the confluence of the Treur and Blyde Rivers have sculpted striking cylindrical rock formations. This natural wonder is as fascinating as it is beautiful.
Next, we ascend to God’s Window, one of the region’s most spectacular viewpoints. From here, on clear days, you can gaze out over the endless expanse of the Lowveld, with views stretching as far as Mozambique.
After taking in these unforgettable sights, we stop for lunch in Graskop, a small town at the heart of the Panorama Route. From there, we descend the winding Kowyn’s Pass to reach Hazyview, our destination for the night.
Included: Breakfast, Three Rondavels, Bourke's Luck Potholes, Gods Window
Overnight: Gecko Lodge / Numbi Hotel
40 Km
Day at Leisure in Hazyview
This day is yours to enjoy at leisure, with the opportunity to join one (or both) of the exciting optional excursions available.
Morning Safari – Kruger National Park (optional)
Start the day with an unforgettable morning safari into the world-famous Kruger National Park. Together with an experienced ranger in an open vehicle, you’ll set out in search of the legendary Big Five. Keep your camera ready — elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos, and buffalo may cross your path at any moment. Along the way, look out for other fascinating wildlife too: zebras, giraffes, impalas, hyenas, baboons, and countless bird species.
Afternoon Adventure – Zipline in Hazyview (optional)
For those who enjoy a touch of adrenaline, the zipline excursion is a must! Under the guidance of professionals, you will glide high above the treetops and soar across one of the beautiful valleys near the Sabie River. A thrilling way to admire the landscapes of the Lowveld from a completely new perspective.
Included: Breakfast,
Overnight: Numbi Hotel / Gecko Lodge
40 Km
Today we bid farewell to Hazyview and journey across the border into the enchanting kingdom of eSwatini. Along the way, we stop at Matsamo Cultural Village, where we are warmly welcomed and introduced to the rich traditions of the Swazi people. Through storytelling, music, dance, and song, we gain a lively and authentic insight into their culture — a wonderful way to connect with the spirit of this small but proud nation.
After completing the border formalities, we continue our drive towards Mbabane, the capital of eSwatini. The landscape here is striking, with vast plateaus rising dramatically above rolling green valleys and forested hills, creating a patchwork of natural beauty.
We will spend the next two nights in eSwatini, giving us time to further explore and experience the country’s warm hospitality and unique charm.
Included: Breakfast, Visit Matsamo Cultural Village
Overnight: Mlilwane
40 Km
Day at Leisure – eSwatini
Today is yours to enjoy at leisure in the beautiful surroundings of eSwatini. You may simply relax by the pool, soaking in the peaceful atmosphere and the lush green landscapes around you.
For those eager to explore, there are several wonderful options. You might choose to visit Umphakatsi Village on the edge of the Mlilwane Game Reserve (optional excursion). Here, you will be welcomed into a traditional homestead and gain an authentic insight into Swazi life, traditions, and customs — a cultural experience not to be missed.
If you prefer something more active, you can rent a mountain bike and venture into the rolling hills, or saddle up for a horseback ride through the reserves. The endless views, fresh air, and pristine natural beauty make for a memorable day in this enchanting kingdom.
Included: Breakfast,
Overnight: Mlilwane
Optional Excursions:
Bird walk / Visit to Umphakatsi Village / Explore the area by mountain bike / Explore the area on horseback.