Tour 18 Day South Africa Eco Explorer

Meals

Meals as per itinerary

Guide

Two Crew onboard

Others

”Big Five” animal viewing Guided open vehicle game drives Kruger National Park Kingdom of eSwatini (Swaziland) Isimangaliso Wetland Park Royal Natal Park – Tugela Gorge walk “Barrier of Spears” – Drakensberg Mountains Wild Coast – Coastal hike to “Hole in the Wall” Mountain Zebra Park Addo Elephant National Park Tsitsikamma National Park Pristine beaches Garden Route – Fauna and Flora delight – Penguins Cape Agulhas (Southernmost Tip of the Africa) Cape Town African culture

Accommodation

17 nights Lodge

Transport

Custom 17-seater adventure truck

Not included:

Others

Other activities and services are not included.

Insurance

Insurance is not included.

Flights

Flights are not included.

Optional

JOHANNESBURG and SURROUNDS (PRE and POST Tour) SOWETO TOUR South of Johannesburg is Soweto, the world’s most famous township and important monument to Apartheid. A sprawling, self-sufficient home to millions, Soweto grapples with democratic change, but its spirit resonates in a plethora of shebeens. The focus on this tour is more on community projects & sustainable tourism. The Soweto Fair Tour includes: Nelson Mandela & Hector Pietersen Museums, a visit to Handiworx or the Soweto Green plus a view of Baragwaneth Hospital and an informal settlement. Also included is a cycle tour from Phomolong & visit a day care centre (also available without cycling). From R590 per person for 3 hours You can also do a cycle tour of Soweto – pricing depends on the time you cycle for. JOBURG CITY TOUR The tour includes a panoramic view of the city, a drive within the business district, visit to traditional African shops, the bohemian Hillbrow and Museum Africa in Newton, the cultural district of Johannesburg. Extend to 8 hours & include Constitution Hill, SAB World of Beer & more. From R590 per person for 3 hours SOWETO & JOHANNESBURG COMBO Combining the Soweto & Johannesburg City tours will give you a great overview of the area. From R850 for 5 hours APARTHEID MUSEUM The path through the museum leads you on a journey beginning with segregation, the cornerstone of apartheid. It takes you back through the history of the myriad cultures converging during the pre-apartheid era. Through the years of race classification, the 150 acts of apartheid, detentions and the oppression of the nationalist regime. Examine the rise of black consciousness, the armed struggle & finally witness the release of Nelson Mandela after 27 years of imprisonment which finally led to the final negotiations for peace. The Apartheid Museum experience is one of upliftment and liberation both personally & socially and leaves each visitor with a feeling of hope for the future, unburdened by the ills of the past. Duration: 3 hours R550 CRADLE OF HUMANKIND The tour visits both the Sterkfontein caves, where the oldest hominid fossils (dating back to over 3 million years) in the world were found & Maropeng where you can experience the fascinating, interactive representations of the origin of Earth & all that lives on our unique planet. Interesting to both adults & children alike, this is a must visit on anyone passing through Gauteng’s itinerary! Duration: 4 hours R990 PRETORIA CITY TOUR Pretoria generates a multicultural energy from a harmonious blend of traditions, culture and architecture. Pretoria has historic value extending to that of the British Empire and Apartheid. The tour includes the either the Voortrekker Monument or Freedom Square, the Union Buildings, Kruger House, Church Square, Mirramen Hindu Temple and thousands of Jacaranda trees. Extend to 8 hours and include both the Voortrekker Monument & Freedom Square as well as the Transvaal Museum. Lunch in Pretoria Duration: 4 ½ hours R850 Duration: 8 hours for the extended tour, incl. lunch R1500 CAPE TOWN and SURROUNDS You are in close proximity to shops, pubs and restaurants. The V&A Waterfront is a major attraction in Cape Town (shuttle service to the Waterfront runs regularly from alongside the Lodge). Half day Township tour: District 6 and museum; Langa; Community school; Shebeen; Kayalitscha; 3 ½ hours R 515 Robben Island: 3 ½ hours; boat ride to the Island; drive over the island; visit of the prison; boat ride back; R 320 excludes taxi to ferry Hop on – Hop off bus: Red route through the V&A Waterfront; City; District 6; cable way; Camps Bay; Sea Point; 2 hours non stop; R 200 for the whole day Hop on – Hop off bus: Blue Route to V&A Waterfront; Kirstenbosch; Hout Bay; World of birds; Camps Bay; Sea Point; R200 for the whole day Full day Peninsula tour: Clifton, Camps Bay, Twelve Apostles, Hout Bay, Chapmans Peak, Noordhoek, Ostrich Viewing, Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve, Cape Point, Penguin Colony, Simons Town, Muizenberg, Constantia, Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens: R 850, Half day without Kirstenbosch R 585 Full day Wine route: Stellenbosch, Paarl and Franschoek: R 850, Half day R 585 Full day whale watching trip to Hermanus R 810 (seasonal) Excludes transport to Hermanus Abseiling off Table Mtn: R 700, excluding cable car tickets White shark diving: R 1350 includes drive to Gansbaai; boat trip; snorkel or dive in cage; picnic lunch Tandem Paraglide from Lions Head: R 1100 Helicopter flips: Various options from R 2000 to R 3000 Horse riding in Hout Bay: 2 hour ride R 350 Historic walking tour through the city: Every day from the tourist information in Burg street. R230 Please Note: Optional Activities can be booked on arrival. No bookings are made in advance. Rates are subject to change without notice Activities are subject to availability Activities are weather dependent

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Day 1 Day 1: Jhb - Kruger Bush Lodge
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 1: Jhb - Kruger Bush Lodge

Heading north from Johannesburg – “The City of Gold”, like many intrepid explorers have done before us, our journey takes us through the outskirts of the capital – Pretoria, and then out into the vast open plains of Africa.

Lunch today will be in the historic gold mining village of Haenertsburg. After lunch we descend into the Magoebaskloof, a spectacular lush mountainous area presided over by the Rain Queen – Modjadi.

The last stretch of our journey today takes us into the Greater Kruger – world renowned for its protected natural environment and vast free-ranging animal populations.

For the next two nights we get cosy at our well-appointed Bush Lodge, situated in a private reserve within the greater Kruger – where animals roam freely and unrestricted. This privately owned reserve allows us the freedom to explore the wilderness in open game drive vehicles in search of a variety of animals, both during the day and into the evening.

The lodge casually blends into the bush and offers crisp comfortable beds and stunning views over the surrounding wilderness, including a water hole regularly frequented by animals. Retire to bed whilst listening to a symphony of sounds from the African Bush.

Meals: D (Lunch own expense)

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Scenic drive down to the Lowveld region

– Private Game Reserve Accommodation
Day 2 Day 2: Kruger Bush Lodge
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 2: Kruger Bush Lodge

After a peaceful night’s rest we start the day with an early riser light breakfast of fresh coffee and rusks (a traditional South African biscuit), before embarking on our morning experience within the wild African bush.

Guided by a qualified ranger we explore the wilderness, with heightened senses, always on the lookout for an animal encounter while also discovering the smaller treasures often hidden from the eye.

Before the heat of the day sets in, we return to the lodge for a scrumptious brunch, after which it’s time to relax around the lodge and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding wilderness. A nearby waterhole attracts a variety of birds and wildlife that come to quench their thirst, displaying the pecking order ever so present. Unwind with a refreshing drink while game viewing from the deck.

With the heat subsiding in the late afternoon we embark on an open vehicle game drive which develops into an extensive night drive – in search of the nocturnal animals that come out after dark.

As dusk approaches we pull over and enjoy a sun-downer drink or two, whilst marvelling at the magnificent sun setting over the African bushveld.

Meals: Brunch Dinner

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Exclusive Private Reserve

– Morning and afternoon guided experience in Big 5 area
Day 3 Day 3: Panorama Route - Hazyview
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 3: Panorama Route - Hazyview

Rising with the African sun, a hearty breakfast is enjoyed before setting off to climb the escarpment and explore the many natural wonders and viewing points in this incredibly scenic region. First stop will be to view the impressive Blyde River Canyon – the world’s largest “Green Canyon”. After viewing the Canyon we continue on to visit the museum town of Pilgrim’s Rest where we enjoy a walk down through the main street whilst reliving the days of the early gold rush.

Today’s lunch will be at your own expense at a venue literally on the edge of the escarpment and offering the most incredible views over the entire Lowveld.

Mid-afternoon we make our way down to the tranquil Greenfire Lodge Hazyview, a log cabin built spectacularly on stilts in the indigenous forest on the banks of the impressive Sabie River or “Fearful River” as dubbed by the locals. As well as a natural paradise this is also a working farm where coffee, limes and macadamias are produced and we will take the time to tour the workings on the property.

Meals: B D (Lunch own expense)

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Panorama Route

– 3 Rondavels

– Pilgrim’s Rest
Day 4 Day 4: Kruger National Park
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 4: Kruger National Park

Waking with the birds, we depart from the lodge at sunrise and travel a short distance to enter the southern sector of Kruger National Park for a full day of game viewing.

Driving slowly through this iconic National Park – the size of Israel or Wales, we will spend the day in search of the many animal inhabitants.

From the high vantage point and comfort of our well-equipped vehicle the view is excellent. Our expert guide will take time to explain the behaviour of the many animals we see in this fascinating environment.

Most of the day will be spent game viewing, however, we will stop regularly at various designated sites to stretch our legs and also to enjoy an own-expense lunch at one of the rest camps in the Park.

Late this afternoon we exit the Park and return to the comfort of our Greenfire Lodge Hazyview.

Meals: Packed Breakfast Snacks, Dinner

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Southern section of Kruger National Park

– Full day game drive
Day 5 Day 5: Eswatini
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 5: Eswatini

Departing after breakfast we pass through the provincial capital Mbombela (Nelspruit), before leaving South Africa and crossing the border into the Kingdom of eSwatini (formerly known as Swaziland), a small landlocked country, rich in culture and natural beauty.

Our journey today takes us high into the mountains, past numerous traditional homesteads, and into an area of spectacular natural beauty. The area is home to many traditional craft industries and time permitting, we will visit one or more during our time here.

We will spend some time exploring this small country before arriving at our accommodation for the night and enjoying a locally cooked meal.

Meals: B L D

Included Highlights/Activity:

– eSwatini

– Scenic drive
Day 6 Day 6-7: St. Lucia
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 6-7: St. Lucia

Today we follow winding roads south through the Swazi countryside, before crossing back into South Africa. After completing the border formalities, we enter Zululand, a part of modern-day KwaZulu-Natal, and home to South Africa’s largest ethnic group – the Zulu people. Formed in the early 1800’s into the most powerful regional empire by King Shaka Zulu, the Zulus influenced a large part of southern Africa.

Once back in South Africa our journey continues to the bustling coastal town of St Lucia where we spend the next two nights. St Lucia itself is home to many animals including Hippo, Crocodile and bird species.

During our stay in St Lucia we will also visit the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a Subtropical Coastal habitat with white beaches, tidal pools, offshore reefs and coastal dune forest. This unique combination of coastal reserve and Wetland Park offers an absolutely unique experience, where we drive through the park viewing rhino, buffalo and a multitude of other large animals, before going for a walk on a deserted beach where at any time you can take a dip in the warm Indian Ocean. The day is spent exploring the beach, rock pools, pristine dune forest and other natural habitats of this amazing Park.

During the evenings we enjoy our dinners at one of the many local restaurants (own-expense). Beware of the wandering hippos that also visit town at night for a bite to eat.

Meals: B L, B L

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Scenic drive through Swaziland

– iSimangaliso Wetland Park
Day 7 Day 8-9: Drakensberg
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 8-9: Drakensberg

Departing St Lucia after breakfast, we continue travelling through the rolling hills of Kwa-Zulu Natal, an area famous for various battles between the Boers and Zulus, British and Zulus and the Boers and British. The area is filled with numerous historic sites that helped shape modern day South Africa.

This afternoon we reach the majestic Drakensberg mountain range that rises 3400m, known to the locals as “The Barrier of Spears”.

After a full day we arrive at our accommodation, where we spend two nights in cozy cabins surrounded by breath-taking views.

On day 9 we will conduct a day hike in the Tugela Gorge which is located in the Royal Natal National Park, part of Drakensberg World Heritage Site. From here we will have a spectacular view of the towering cliffs of the Amphitheatre and the Tugela Falls, at 948m the falls are widely accepted as being the second highest in the world.

Meals: B L D; B L D

Included Highlights / Activity:

– Drakensberg Mountains

– Tugela Gorge hike
Day 8 Day 10: Southern Drakensberg
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 10: Southern Drakensberg

With tired legs, today we travel further south whilst hugging the Drakensberg Mountains and make our way into the Natal midlands, a lush farming area known to be one of South Africa’s prettiest.

Our overnight stop tonight is on a working ranch. We arrive in the afternoon and will have time to learn more about farming in this area as well as the fascinating history that surrounds the farm and buildings on the property. For the adventurous there will also be an opportunity to assist with some of the farm work in the afternoon or early morning.

Tonight we enjoy a traditional dinner prepared fresh from the farm gardens.

Meals: B L D

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Scenic drive through Southern Drakensberg

– Local farm stay
Day 9 Day 11-12: Wild Coast
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 11-12: Wild Coast

Setting off early, we pass through several small towns and follow beautiful roads towards one of the most exciting, truly off-the-beaten-track highlights of the tour – The Wild Coast.

Having formerly been an independent homeland, there has been little development in this area, resulting in endless unspoiled beaches, natural estuaries, rolling grassland, and a tapestry of traditional Xhosa villages.

We spend two nights on the Wild Coast at Coffee Bay allowing us a full day for hiking and exploring this rugged but stunningly beautiful area. The highlight of our stay will be a walk along the high cliffs, deserted beaches and rolling grasslands, to what is one the most impressive landmarks along the South African coastline – Hole in the Wall. Hole in the Wall is an island, just offshore with a natural arch carved by centuries of wave-action. The adventurous can swim out for a closer look.

This afternoon we will have time to simply relax and to enjoy the “Robinson Crusoe” surroundings as well as the comforts of our accommodation.

Meals: B L D; B L D

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Scenic drive to the Wild Coast

– Private beach

– Hike along the coast
Day 10 Day 13: Wild Coast - Cradock
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 13: Wild Coast - Cradock

Departing from the Wild Coast we follow lesser known roads through the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and make our way into the Great Karoo, to Cradock, a town in the upper reaches of the Great Fish River valley, filled with rich history dating back to the mid 1800s.

On arrival in Cradock we are met by a local guide who will take us on a colourful walking history tour, before we check into our accommodation for the night. We enjoy an evening surrounded by old fashion hospitality and history.

Meals: B L D

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Scenic drive in Eastern Cape

– Historic town of Cradock

– History tour
Day 11 Day 14: Mountain Zebra Park - Addo Elephant Park - Nelson Mandela Bay
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 14: Mountain Zebra Park - Addo Elephant Park - Nelson Mandela Bay

An early start, we aim to enter the Mountain Zebra Park as the gate opens – this Park is unlike any of the others we have previously visited, being in the semi-desert of the Great Karoo, and is home to not only the endangered mountain zebra, but also springbok, ostrich, cheetah, buffalo, black rhino, and an array of birdlife. We spend a few hours in search of animals, and to take in the spectacular views, before returning to the hotel for a sumptuous breakfast.

Once packed, we depart Cradock and head for the renowned Addo Elephant Park where elephants, buffalo and other animals can be viewed at close range in another unique environment, the succulant shrubs of the rhenosterveld. We will traverse this interesting National Park from the north to south. Exiting in the late afternoon we travel the short distance back to the coast and to our hotel literally on the beachfront of the stunning Nelson Mandela Bay. The location of our hotel allows for us to stroll along the beachfront and to visit one of a variety of restaurants to enjoy an own expense dinner.

Meals: B L D

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Mountain Zebra National Park

– Addo Elephant National Park

– Nelson Mandela Bay
Day 12 Day 15: Garden Route - Knysna
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 15: Garden Route - Knysna

This morning we will have time for a stroll on the beach, perhaps a swim in the Indian Ocean or just a leisurely cup of coffee. After breakfast we then continue our journey into the heart of the spectacular Garden Route region. We will travel the length of this magnificent natural kingdom sandwiched between the ocean and the towering mountains, exploring the verdant and ecologically diverse vegetation encountered here with the numerous estuaries, lakes and ancient forests. We stop regularly to explore the highlights including the Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park where we will enjoy a walk along the rugged coast and over the suspension bridge spanning the Storms River mouth.

This afternoon we travel to the vibrant town of Knysna. Surrounded by indigenous forests, fynbos and lagoons, this little town is a gem in a natural Garden of Eden.

On arrival we have time to explore and to enjoy an own-expense meal at one of the many little restaurants.

Meals: B L

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Tsitsikamma National Park

– Hike in Tsitsikamma
Day 13 Day 16: Cape Agulhas - Southern Tip Of Africa
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 16: Cape Agulhas - Southern Tip Of Africa

Departing from Knysna we follow the coast through several small towns as we make our way down to Cape Agulhas – the most southerly point on the African continent. Here we will conduct a short walk down to the beach to experience first-hand the theoretical meeting point of the cold Atlantic and the warm Indian oceans.

A picnic style lunch is enjoyed by all with the crisp clean ocean breeze, before leaving this treasure and retiring to our accommodation in Arniston. An afternoon walk down to the huge sea cave, Waenhuiskrans, is recommended.

Meals: B L D

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Cape Agulhas

– Waenhuiskrans
Day 14 Day 17-18: Cape Town
12:00 am - 11:59 pm

Day 17-18: Cape Town

A relaxed morning drive takes us on the “Whale Route” through Hermanus – known across the world for excellent land based whale watching. We then hug the coast around the Hottentots Holland Mountains toward Betty’s Bay where we visit a small colony of African Penguins.

This afternoon we travel one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world, along the edge of False Bay, before making our way towards the “Mother City”, Cape Town.

Mid-afternoon we will arrive at the Mojo Hotel, located in Sea Point and our accommodation for the night. The hotel is conveniently located close to award winning restaurants, galleries, vibrant nightlife and the ocean promenade.

Our tour will officially come to an end after breakfast on Day 18 of the tour.

Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, rich in culture, award winning wines, world class restaurants, fashion and people from all walks of life, guests are encouraged to spend some extra time to explore the ‘Mother City’, and we would be happy to assist in making arrangements.

Meals: B; B (Lunch and dinner on Day 17 are own expense)

Included Highlights/Activity:

– Scenic drive to Cape Town

– Coastal roads

+11

18 days tour

18 Day South Africa Eco Explorer

This tour includes:

Not included:

Start planning your experience

Itinerary of your trip 18 Day South Africa Eco Explorer

Day 1: Jhb - Kruger Bush Lodge

Day 2: Kruger Bush Lodge

Day 3: Panorama Route - Hazyview

Day 4: Kruger National Park

Day 5: Eswatini

Day 6-7: St. Lucia

Day 8-9: Drakensberg

Day 10: Southern Drakensberg

Day 11-12: Wild Coast

Day 13: Wild Coast - Cradock

Day 14: Mountain Zebra Park - Addo Elephant Park - Nelson Mandela Bay

Day 15: Garden Route - Knysna

Day 16: Cape Agulhas - Southern Tip Of Africa

Day 17-18: Cape Town

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