Hikers crossing a suspension bridge over the Storms River mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park

Safari 19 days Small group in a 4x4

Premium small group trip through South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho

Immerse yourself in the complete South African experience, including detours to Lesotho and Eswatini, which are bursting with stunning natural beauty.

Dates and price

The Journey

Best of South Africa - Explorer Wild Life Safari

An odyssey of wildlife, culture, and heritage, this journey through southern Africa unites all the colors of the “Rainbow Nation” with two of its fascinating neighbors, Eswatini and Lesotho.

A carefully curated collection of famous national parks, extraordinary safaris, and breathtaking sights, aimed at ticking off numerous experiences from the bucket list during this 19-day journey.

Starting in the heart of South Africa, we set off from Johannesburg into the untamed Lowveld of the Greater Kruger National Park. Awaken to a classic African sunrise in the bush and prepare for several safaris to discover some of Africa's most iconic animals. The immense biodiversity of this region guarantees unforgettable sightings.

As a scenic contrast, the journey takes us along the Panorama Route, a showcase of spectacular natural wonders like Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, and the impressive God’s Window.

After departing from the Kruger area, we continue into the hilly landscapes of Eswatini. Here, you can choose from a variety of outdoor activities in the vast grassland plains, including horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking.

Back in South Africa, we reach St Lucia and enter landscapes once ruled by the legendary King Shaka of the Zulu Kingdom. The next morning begins with a walk in the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Reserve, followed by an afternoon cruise on the waters of St Lucia as we look for hippos and crocodiles that often rest on the banks.

The rugged peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains form our next destination. A lush green landscape leads us to the Howick Falls and the Mandela Capture Site, where we pause before hiking the expansive highlands the following day.

On the way to Lesotho, the reverently named “Kingdom of the Heavens”, we discover ancient San rock art and the mighty Maletsunyane Falls, or choose to go pony trekking through this peaceful highland refuge.

As we descend into the semi-arid plains of the Karoo, we explore the historic town of Graaff-Reinet before setting off at dawn for a walk through the eerily beautiful Valley of Desolation.

After numerous scenic highlights, we return to wildlife and reach the Addo Elephant National Park, where large herds of elephants roam freely, accompanied by elusive predators in the acacia-dominated bush.

Next, we turn to the West Coast and begin the famous Garden Route. We explore the steep coastal landscapes of the Tsitsikamma National Park and hike through tree canopies filled with birdsong.

A detour to Oudtshoorn takes us to the prehistoric chambers of the Cango Caves, before we continue to the southernmost point of Africa, where two oceans meet and the Cape Whale Coast Route begins.

Stroll along the cliff paths of Hermanus and encounter the critically endangered African penguins at Stony Point, before finally reaching the “Mother City” Cape Town.

A rich tapestry of landscapes, wildlife, culture, and encounters. You return with a deeply cherished experience of the true gems from the crown jewel of the natural wonders of southern Africa.

Duration
19 days
Travelling
Small group in a 4x4
Sleeping
Tent or lodge
Group
4 to 12 guests
Safari days
4 of 19
Demands
Moderate
4 countries
South Africa Botswana Eswatini (Swaziland) Lesotho
1 national park
Kruger National Park
A hippopotamus standing at the muddy edge of a river, looking toward the camera Premium small group trip through South Africa, Swaziland, Lesotho
Wildlife

Key Highlights of the Trip

What the itinerary names. Wild animals cannot be ordered, but the parks, the season and the hours at the water are chosen so the odds are good.

Big Five 2 of 5 on this route
  1. Lion Not on this route
  2. Leopard Not on this route
  3. Elephant Named in the itinerary
  4. Rhino Named in the itinerary
  5. Buffalo Not on this route
Also along the way
  • Hippo
  • Crocodile
  • Penguin
  • Whale
01 Unforgettable Kruger Safari
01
Unforgettable Kruger Safari
Experience the wildlife of Africa up close in Kruger National Park, surrounded by breathtaking nature.
02 The spectacular panorama route
02
The spectacular panorama route
Experience breathtaking views and natural wonders along the Panorama Route in South Africa.
03 Discover nature wonders on St Lucia cruise
03
Discover nature wonders on St Lucia cruise
Experience the breathtaking beauty of the St Lucia Wetlands and observe wildlife in their natural habitat.
04 Safari Adventure in Hluhluwe Park
04
Safari Adventure in Hluhluwe Park
Experience fascinating animal observations during the Game Drive in the Hluhluwe National Park, one of the oldest wildlife reserves in South Africa.
05 Mandela Capture Site: A historical legacy
05
Mandela Capture Site: A historical legacy
Visit the Mandela Capture Site, where the history of South Africa comes alive and Nelson Mandela's legacy is celebrated.
06 The impressive Howick Falls
06
The impressive Howick Falls
Experience the majestic Howick Falls, a breathtaking natural wonder with a waterfall 95 meters high in KwaZulu-Natal.
07 Experience pure nature on the Drakensberg hike
07
Experience pure nature on the Drakensberg hike
Experience breathtaking views and the rich flora and fauna of the Drakensberg on this unforgettable hike.
08 Hike to the waterfalls in Lesotho
08
Hike to the waterfalls in Lesotho
Experience the impressive waterfalls of Lesotho on an unforgettable hike through breathtaking landscapes.
09 Addo Game Drive: Discover a Paradise of Animals
09
Addo Game Drive: Discover a Paradise of Animals
Experience exciting wildlife observations in Addo Elephant National Park and discover the fascinating animal world of South Africa.
10 Exploration tour into the valley of despair
10
Exploration tour into the valley of despair
Experience breathtaking landscapes and the wild wildlife in the picturesque Valley of Desolation.
11 Jeffreys Bay: Where the ocean meets adventure
11
Jeffreys Bay: Where the ocean meets adventure
Discover the dreamlike beaches and world-famous surf waves of Jeffreys Bay, a paradise for water sports enthusiasts and nature lovers.
12 Experience pure nature on the Tsitsikamma hike
12
Experience pure nature on the Tsitsikamma hike
Experience the stunning landscapes and unique biodiversity during the Tsitsikamma hike in South Africa.
13 Cango Caves: A Natural Wonder of South Africa
13
Cango Caves: A Natural Wonder of South Africa
Discover the fascinating Cango Caves, a breathtaking underground world full of stalactites and stalagmites.
14 Cape Agulhas: Where the Oceans Meet
14
Cape Agulhas: Where the Oceans Meet
Discover the southernmost point of Africa, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans meet.
15 Hermanus Walroute: Experience a natural wonder
15
Hermanus Walroute: Experience a natural wonder
Observe the majestic whales off the coast of Hermanus - an unforgettable experience in South Africa.
16 Penguin Paradise in Stoney Point
16
Penguin Paradise in Stoney Point
Visit the lively penguin colony on the coast and experience these charming animals in their natural habitat.
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Days 1-19
A safari guide in an open vehicle watching an elephant feeding among green bushes
Greater Kruger National Park

Greater Kruger National Park

We leave the city of Johannesburg behind us and make our way east through the coalfields of Mpumalanga. Our journey today follows in the footsteps of the old trade routes into the Lowveld and to Kruger National Park.

An elephant family with a calf standing together on open ground under a blue sky
Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park

“Early in the morning we enter the Kruger National Park to enjoy a full day of wildlife observation. The abundance of wildlife offers us opportunities for excellent sightings, and Kruger is also home to the famous members of Africa's Big 5. Truly the flagship of South Africa's national parks, Kruger hosts an impressive number of species: 336 trees, 49 fish, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 birds, and 147 mammals. Our game drive through the park takes place in an open 4x4 vehicle.”

Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park

Kruger National Park

While those who choose the optional morning walk have an earlier start, we will set off a little later today and travel the short distance to the Panorama Route. Along the slope that separates the central plateau from the lower bush landscape of Kruger, the sights of the Panorama Route offer a day full of scenic delights. We will visit the highlights of Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, and God’s Window, before returning to camp in the late afternoon.

Kruger to Eswatini
Kruger to Eswatini

Kruger to Eswatini

We start the day early with some coffee and traditional zwieback before we make our way through Kruger towards Eswatini. Our vehicle provides an excellent platform for wildlife observation as we head south. We leave the southern end of the park and travel the short distance to the border of Eswatini, our route in the afternoon winding through the mountains and forests of this inland kingdom. Our destination for today is the Ezulwini Valley, located directly south of the capital Mbabane.

A large group of young Swazi women in traditional beaded dress holding tall reeds
Eswatini

Eswatini

"Officially known as the Kingdom of Eswatini, Eswatini is a landlocked country, which means it has no coastline and is completely surrounded by South Africa. Some important Swazi phrases to try are: Hello: "Sawubona" or Yes: "Yebo". Today you have the opportunity to explore your surroundings."

Eswatini - St Lucia
Eswatini - St Lucia

Eswatini - St Lucia

We say goodbye to Eswatini and re-enter South Africa as we continue south into the regions of Zululand, once the realm of the powerful King Shaka, who united the Zulu clans.

Close up of an elephant drinking water with its trunk, tusks visible
Hluhluwe - Umfolozi Game Reserve / iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Hluhluwe - Umfolozi Game Reserve / iSimangaliso Wetland Park

We set off early this morning for a safari in the nearby Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, one of the last refuges of the endangered rhino. While rhinos are the most well-known inhabitants of the park, the park also provides a home for many other species, including the Big-5, which we all hope to see. After returning to our accommodation for a siesta, we freshen up for a boat tour on the St. Lucia Estuary.

Adventure tours South Africa, Krüger-Nationalpark, Südafrika
Days 8 - KwaZulu-Natal Coast - UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

Days 8 - KwaZulu-Natal Coast - UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

Running through the province of KwaZulu-Natal, the Ukhlamba-Drakensberg Park is a UNESCO-recognized World Heritage Site. Whether you use the Zulu name uKhahlamba, which means 'Spear Barrier', or the Afrikaans name Drakensberge, which means 'Dragon Mountains', these high mountains will be our backdrop for the next two nights. On our way, we make a stop to see the picturesque Howick Falls and visit the nearby site that marked the capture of South Africa's most famous man, Nelson Mandela.

Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park

Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park

We set off this morning for a long hike. While we encourage everyone to make the most of the day in the mountains, we can offer separate options depending on the activity level of the group. With a variety of hiking trails available, we can ensure that we cater to every need. The most important goal is to ensure that everyone enjoys this mountain paradise at their own pace.

Lesotho
Lesotho

Lesotho

Our journey today begins with a mountain pass as our path winds through the majestic cliffs of Golden Gate National Park before we enter Lesotho in the afternoon. We pass the capital Maseru as we continue our ascent to our base high among the mountain peaks.

Tour expert

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Lesotho
Lesotho

Lesotho

The clean air of the mountains accompanies us this morning as we explore the surrounding area, which offers a unique and adventurous landscape to be explored on foot, and we will set off on a journey that takes a few hours.

South Africa - Graaff Reinet
South Africa - Graaff Reinet

South Africa - Graaff Reinet

On our return to South Africa, we descend the mountains and aim across the vast Karoo. The semi-arid Karoo represents the heartland of rural South Africa and provides a stark contrast to the mountains we leave behind. Our overnight stop is located in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, the fourth oldest town in the country. Today we cross the mighty Orange (Gariep) River as we travel through the wide landscapes of the Karoo.

Gqeberha / Greater Addo Area
Gqeberha / Greater Addo Area

Gqeberha / Greater Addo Area

This morning you have the opportunity to participate in a sunrise excursion to the Valley of Desolation. This unique valley offers a panoramic view over the city and the vast plains that stretch below. We set our course again towards the coast, passing through the open plains of the Karoo and making our way to the famous Addo Elephant National Park, where we will enjoy a half-day game drive in our vehicle, in search of the famous elephants that call Addo their home.

Days 14 - Gqeberha / Addo Elephant National Park Region
Days 14 - Gqeberha / Addo Elephant National Park Region

Days 14 - Gqeberha / Addo Elephant National Park Region

We are once again heading into Addo Elephant National Park for our game drive. The recent expansion has made Addo the third largest national park in South Africa. The unique vegetation of Addo supports a great diversity of wildlife, and we will spend the morning searching for the animals.

Tsitsikamma National Park
Tsitsikamma National Park

Tsitsikamma National Park

We are setting off early this morning and will briefly visit the surf mecca of Jeffreys Bay. This small town is best known for its waves and also houses a small surf museum. Then we head west to the Tsitsikamma region, where we will settle in for the next two nights and where the wonders of the Garden Route await us.

Hikers crossing a suspension bridge over the Storms River mouth in Tsitsikamma National Park
Tsitsikamma National Park

Tsitsikamma National Park

The Tsitsikamma National Park is one of the best marine protected areas in South Africa, and this morning we set out to explore the rugged coastline on foot. Our hike along the Waterfall Trail takes us through the first section of the world-famous Otter Trail. This is not an easy hike, and those who prefer a more relaxing option can use the wooden walkways to Storms River Mouth. After our hike, we return and you have the opportunity to book the Woodcutters Journey in the afternoon - to experience the uniqueness of the Tsitsikamma biome and learn more about the history of the region and its native fauna and flora.

Oudtshoorn
Oudtshoorn

Oudtshoorn

After a stop in the town of Knysna, we head inland, cross the Outeniqua Mountains, and descend into the town of Oudtshoorn. We set out for the famous Cango Caves to participate in a guided tour, during which we admire the amazing formations that have developed in these impressive limestone caves.

Days 18 - Oudtshoorn - Hermanus/Arniston
Days 18 - Oudtshoorn - Hermanus/Arniston

Days 18 - Oudtshoorn - Hermanus/Arniston

After breakfast, we leave Oudtshoorn and drive through the picturesque Little Karoo as we continue our journey along the Garden Route. Along the way, we pass charming country towns and gentle farmland landscapes before reaching Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, where the Atlantic Ocean and the Indian Ocean meet. Take your time to explore the rugged coastline and take unforgettable photos at this iconic landmark. We continue our scenic drive towards Hermanus, known for its spectacular whale watching opportunities (seasonally from June to November) and vibrant coastal atmosphere. After arriving at our accommodation, we enjoy a relaxed evening in this charming coastal town. In the evening, your guide will organize an optional dinner at a selected local restaurant, which provides a wonderful opportunity to enjoy regional cuisine and great company.

A sandy beach and turquoise ocean beneath a rugged coastal mountain range
The Cape Whale Coast Route

The Cape Whale Coast Route

“This morning we have time to stroll along the Cliff Path (promenade) in Hermanus, which offers panoramic views of the ocean, and if you're lucky, catch a glimpse of the southern right whales (seasonal from June to November). We leave Hermanus and drive along the beautiful Cape Whale Coast, an unspoiled stretch along the coast of South Africa, and stop at one of the largest breeding colonies of African penguins in the Stony Point Nature Reserve. If time permits, we may take a scenic detour through part of the famous Cape Winelands, where we have the opportunity to stop, stretch our legs, and grab a bite to eat (optional). Your tour ends upon arrival in Cape Town's city center.”

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Verified Reviews

What riders say about Safari in South Africa

5.0

3 reviews

Oliver M.

The overland journey through South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho offers a well-thought-out route that includes numerous highlights. Particularly helpful was the...

Translated from German · Show original

Die Overland Reise durch Südafrika, Swasiland und Lesotho bietet eine gut durchdachte Route, die zahlreiche Highlights inkludiert. Besonders hilfreich war die klare Gruppendynamik innerhalb der maximal 12 Teilnehmer, was die Interaktion während der täglichen Safaris im Krüger Nationalpark und den Stopps an der Panorama Route erleichterte. Diese Struktur ermöglichte es, auch in den anspruchsvolleren Passagen von Lesotho ein angenehmes Tempo zu halten, bei dem niemand zurückgelassen wurde. Insgesamt habe ich durch diese Erfahrung bessere Einblicke in die Gruppendynamik auf solchen Reisen gewonnen.

Guest

Tobias S.

The group dynamics during the 19-day overland journey through South Africa, Lesotho and Swaziland were consistently positive, especially during activities such...

Translated from German · Show original

Die Gruppendynamik während der 19-tägigen Overlandreise durch Südafrika, Lesotho und Swasiland war durchweg positiv, insbesondere bei Aktivitäten wie der Krüger Safari. Der Austausch auf den Etappen war intensiv, was das Tempo der Tour sehr dynamisch gestaltete.

Guest

Thomas S.

The organization of the overland trip through South Africa, Swaziland and Lesotho was structured and efficient. The flow of the tour followed a clear plan, star...

Translated from German · Show original

Die Organisation der Overland Reise durch Südafrika, Swasiland und Lesotho war strukturiert und effizient. Der Ablauf der Tour folgte einem klaren Plan, angefangen mit dem Transfer von Johannesburg in den Greater Krüger Nationalpark am ersten Tag, gefolgt von einem ganztägigen Safari-Erlebnis im Krüger Nationalpark. Die täglichen Briefings halfen, die Aktivitäten transparent zu gestalten, während die Gruppengröße von maximal 12 Personen den Austausch und die persönliche Betreuung durch den englischsprachigen Guide erleichterte. Die Kombination aus Camping und Lodge-Unterkünften bot flexible Optionen für die Teilnehmer. Diese Tour hat mir gezeigt, dass eine gut organisierte Reiseroute entscheidend für das Erleben der Natur und Tierwelt ist.

Guest
Offroad adventure

PRICE

from

€ 3,699 / person

Price Options

Lodgesafari in shared double room € 3,499

Additional Options

Single room surcharge / Person € 459

Trip includes

  • Catering according to the itinerary - 18 breakfasts, 0 lunches, 14 dinners - accommodation
  • Provided vehicles: 12-seater minibus 4×4 safari vehicle
  • Qualified staff
  • Transportation in a 12-seater mini-van or bus
  • The highlights included in the itinerary
  • Entry prices for national parks.
  • What luggage can be taken?
    For reasons of space, only travel bags can be taken.

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