SMALL GROUP ACCOMMODATED SAFARI: Discover the beautiful landscapes, rich culture and diverse wildlife of South Africa and Zimbabwe on this 7-day small group safari. Go in search of the Big Five in Kruger National Park and encounter rhinos on a wilderness walk in Matobo National Park. Cruise the Zambezi River on the lookout for hippos and crocodiles, and marvel at the thundering Victoria Falls.
Trip Highlights
Included
Not Included
Itinerary
Pretoria to Hoedspruit
Pretoria - Hoedspruit. Early this morning we depart from Pretoria, South Africa's administrative city and drive across the picturesque Mpumalanga province, relishing in the breath-taking mountain vistas. A stop at the Blyde River Canyon offers us the chance to admire the peculiar Three Rondavels rock formations perched at the canyon's edge and enjoy the picturesque views. After lunch we continue the journey to our lodge, situated 38km from Kruger National Park.
Please Note: You will need to arrive in Pretoria at least one night before your tour. There will be a pre-departure meeting at 18:00 hrs on the evening prior to departure and the tour departs at 07:00 hrs on day 1. Refer to the Joining Instructions in our Trip Notes for more information. We can book an airport transfer from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport and Pretoria pre-tour accommodation upon request.
Overnight: Hoedspruit | Dinner
Kruger National Park
Early this morning we board 4x4 game viewing vehicles and head into Kruger National Park with a professional guide. Kruger is home to all of the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo) and is an African stronghold for the white rhino and the critically endangered black rhino. We game drive in the morning and afternoon with a break during the middle of the day at a rest camp, when it is hottest and wildlife is usually less active. After an exhilarating day of wildlife spotting we leave the park and return to our accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Overnight: Hoedspruit | Breakfast, Dinner
Hoedspruit to Polokwane
Hoedspruit - Polokwane. After breakfast we leave the Kruger area and travel across undulating countryside to the northern town of Polokwane. This scenic journey takes us over some beautiful mountain passes and through verdant citrus plantations nestled along the valleys of the Limpopo Province.
Arriving into Polokwane we meet our guide and other members of the group at the lodge before heading off to visit an open-air museum and learn about the local Bakone culture. The museum offers insights into the traditional practices of the Bakone tribe, unveiling their historical methods of fire-making, mielie meal preparation, and the distinctive decorations that grace their dwellings.
Please note: This tour departs Pretoria at 10am and we strongly recommend that you plan to arrive the day before departure to overcome any jetlag and acclimatise to Africa. We can book Johannesburg (JNB) airport transfers and pre tour accommodation in Pretoria upon request.
Overnight: Polokwane | Breakfast, Dinner
Bulawayo
Polokwane - Bulawayo (Zimbabwe). After breakfast we traverse the South African-Zimbabwean border at Beitbridge and travel on to Bulawayo, a city characterized by broad tree-lined avenues and expansive open spaces. The surrounding area boasts historical, geological, and natural attractions, including the renowned Matobo National Park. Our accommodation is set in a peaceful garden setting on the outskirts of Bulawayo.
Overnight: Bulawayo | Breakfast, Dinner
Matobo National Park
This morning we venture into Matobo National Park for a half-day Nature Drive and Wilderness Walk. This reserve boasts the highest concentration of Black and White Rhino in Africa. Our knowledgeable guide will lead us on foot to some of the more concealed places in search of these magnificent animals. This remarkable park also has the densest population of leopard and black eagle in the world, and we keep our eyes peeled high and low for these creatures. After the tour we travel back to our Bulawayo guesthouse for leisurely afternoon.
Alternatively, you can book an optional extension to today's tour. Head into the Matobo Hills to see some of the ancient Bushmen paintings in the area and visit the grave of Cecil Rhodes, an important but controversial historical figure who ruled as Prime Minister of the colonial Cape Colony from 1890 - 1896.
Overnight: Bulawayo | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Victoria Falls Sunset Cruise
Bulawayo - Victoria Falls. Leaving Bulawayo behind, we journey north to Victoria Falls. By early afternoon we reach this small town which is situated along the southern banks of the Zambezi River and serves as Zimbabwe’s primary tourist centre. The Victoria Falls are just a short walk away, surrounded by markets, shops, and cafes. To cap off the day, we join a serene sunset dinner cruise on the Zambezi River, on the look out for elephants, buffalo, buck, hippo, and birdlife along the riverbanks. We then return to our accommodation for the night or you can head out to enjoy the local nightlife.
Overnight: Victoria Falls | Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Victoria Falls
After breakfast, we visit Victoria Falls National Park to witness one of Africa’s most spectacular sights. Stroll along the pathways to view the mighty Victoria Falls from different view points. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure or enjoy some of the many exciting optional activities on offer at Victoria Falls. From white river rafting and canoeing, to scenic flights and bungee jumping. Alternatively you could relax and enjoy afternoon tea at the beautiful Victoria Falls Hotel.
Breakfast
Prices & Dates
Departure dates are guaranteed with a minimum of 2 persons. 'Twin/Double' are per person when there are 2 people sharing a room. 'Single' prices are applicable to solo travellers wanting the privacy of a single room. Single rooms are subject to availability.
Read MoreLocal payment - $390pp, paid in USD
Please note that this is payable locally on day 1 of your trip in the currency specified.
Extra Prices
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.
Sunset Game Lodge, Hoedspruit
The Sunset Game Lodge is a tranquil haven in prime bushveld, offering contemporary comfort and an authentic safari experience. En-suite guest rooms are air-conditioned and face onto the central courtyard, where there's a swimming pool to cool down in after a busy day on safari. The restaurant serves hearty, unpretentious food, mostly cooked outside or in the wood fired pizza oven. There's a gym for those who wish to keep fit and a lounge to retire to after dinner. Enjoy a sundowner in the bar overlooking the bushveld or relax on the spacious deck with a spectacular view of the Drakensberg Mountains, keeping an eye out for a variety of game at the waterhole below. The lodge is situated in Guernsey Private Nature Reserve, which is conveniently located just 38km from Kruger National Park's Orpen Gate.
Destiny Inn Lodge, Polokwane
Destiny Inn Lodge in Polokwane is a haven of comfort and convenience, strategically positioned on the outskirts of this vibrant city. The cozy and comfortable rooms provide a welcoming retreat with modern furnishings and thoughtful amenities. Guests can unwind in spacious accommodations equipped with Wi-Fi, an en-suite, and stylish decor. The lodge boasts an outdoor pool, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a tranquil garden setting which is perfect to relax in after a long day exploring the city or the surrounding wilderness. Destiny Inn Lodge combines urban accessibility with a relaxing atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay in Polokwane.
Travellers Guest House, Bulawayo
Travellers Guest House in Bulawayo is a charming retreat set in Bulawayo, offering an authentic blend of comfort and hospitality. Conveniently located near the city, guests enjoy easy access to local attractions and vibrant markets. The guest house features cozy rooms decorated with local artwork and providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. They include modern amenities such as an en-suite, TV, and WiFi, ensuring a comfortable stay. The lush garden offers a serene escape, the pool offers a place to cool down and relax while the lounge and dining areas provide a communal area for all guests. With friendly staff and a genuine Zimbabwean ambiance, Travellers Guest House is a delightful haven for those exploring the regions rich culture and wildlife.
Shearwater Explorers Village, Victoria Falls
Situated in the bohemian town of Victoria Falls, and 400m from the Falls themselves, the affordable accommodation at the Shearwater Explorers Village consists of 5 campsites with modern bathroom facilities, and 16 chalets with en-suite showers and A/C. Shearwater operates a range of activities at the Falls, from bungee jumping to river rafting - and when the day is over, guests can wind down with Wi-Fi in the lounge areas, a drink by the pool, or even a back rub in the massage tent.
At a Glance
Tour Add-ons
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