11 day South Africa Classic Highlights

Start your adventure with a scenic drive from Johannesburg, passing through charming towns like Middelburg, Dullstroom, and Ohrigstad. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Blyde River Canyon, marvelling at the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Lisbon Falls, God’s Window, and the Pinnacle. Hike down to Bourke’s Luck Potholes to witness the unique rock formations carved by the river. Step back in time in the historic town of Pilgrim’s Rest, a former gold-mining town declared a National Monument. Explore the charming streets, visit the old gold mines, and experience the nostalgic atmosphere of this bygone era. As you journey through this scenic route, you’ll be captivated by the stunning landscapes, diverse wildlife, and rich history of the region.

After fueling up with a hearty breakfast, we embark on a scenic drive to Hazyview, the gateway to the Kruger National Park. Immerse yourself in the vast wilderness of this 2-million-hectare wildlife sanctuary. Spend the day exploring the park’s diverse ecosystems and encountering iconic African wildlife. As night falls, retire to comfortable chalets within one of the park’s rest camps, ready for another day of adventure.

Wake up early to embark on a thrilling game drive, followed by a delicious breakfast at the camp. Spend the rest of the morning exploring the Kruger National Park‘s diverse wildlife and breathtaking landscapes. In the afternoon, we venture into the enchanting Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). Visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory, where skilled artisans create stunning handcrafted glass products from recycled materials. Drive through the vibrant capital city of Mbabane and continue to the picturesque Mhlambanyatsi region, nestled amidst the mountains. Here, we’ll spend the night and immerse ourselves in the serene beauty of the Swazi highlands.

Start your day with an early breakfast, followed by a visit to the renowned Swazi Candles factory in the Malkerns Valley. Witness the artistry of local craftsmen as they hand-mold wax into intricate shapes. Explore the vibrant market, where you can purchase unique handicrafts, including batik, hand-woven textiles, and colorful handbags. Continue your journey through the scenic Ezulwini Valley towards Manzini, the country’s industrial hub. As you wind your way south towards Nhlangano, breathtaking vistas unfold with each hilltop. Cross the border at Onverwacht and enter the enchanting Zululand region. Arrive at your private lodge in Hluhluwe and check in. Embark on an exhilarating open-vehicle safari, immersing yourself in the diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes. As the sun sets, return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and a well-deserved rest.

After a hearty breakfast, we head to the Hluhluwe Imfolozi Reserve, a renowned wildlife sanctuary where the white rhino was miraculously saved from extinction. Embark on another thrilling two-hour game drive, seeking out the elusive Big Five. Next, we journey to the charming coastal village of St Lucia. Cruise along the serene waters of the Lake St Lucia estuary, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Encounter a diverse array of birdlife, including majestic fish eagles and Goliath herons. Your knowledgeable guide will unveil the hidden world of hippos, crocodiles, and other fascinating creatures that inhabit these waters. Conclude your unforgettable adventure in the vibrant city of Durban, South Africa’s premier holiday destination.

Durban is a vibrant coastal metropolis where East meets West in a colorful African “melting pot,” offering a year-round subtropical carnival atmosphere and golden beaches lapped by the lukewarm Indian Ocean. Our comprehensive city tour dives deep into the heart of this bustling hub—home to Africa’s busiest port—with a scenic drive along the iconic Golden Mile and the futuristic Point Waterfront area. You will have the opportunity to immerse your senses at the world-famous Indian Market, where you can bargain for authentic curios and hand-ground spices. We conclude our journey with a tranquil stroll through the Durban Botanical Gardens, a lush oasis showcasing rare plant species in the heart of the city. This curated experience perfectly blends Durban’s complex history with its modern evolution, making it an essential stop for any South African traveler.

Delve into South Africa’s rich history with a visit to Pietermaritzburg, the capital of KwaZulu-Natal. Stand at the railway station where Mahatma Gandhi’s unjust treatment sparked a movement of non-violent resistance. Continue to Howick, where you’ll witness the majestic 100m-high Howick Falls and pay homage to Nelson Mandela at the site of his arrest. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Natal Midlands. Traverse rolling hills, fertile farmlands, and picturesque villages. As you ascend towards Underberg, the majestic Drakensberg Mountains will come into view, their towering peaks reaching heights of over 3400m. Spend your afternoon exploring the diverse landscapes of the Drakensberg. Choose from a range of guided hikes or venture out on your own to discover hidden trails and panoramic vistas.

We begin the day with another delicious breakfast, before embarking on an adrenaline-pumping four-wheel-drive adventure up the historic Sani Pass. Wind your way through hairpin bends and breathtaking vistas, reaching the summit of the Drakensberg Mountains. Immerse yourself in the serenity of the Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, 3000m above sea level, and savor a delectable lunch. As the afternoon unfolds, descend the winding road and return to Durban, ready to share tales of your exhilarating journey.

Early this morning, we’ll depart for King Shaka International Airport to catch your flight to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), the friendly gateway to the Garden Route. Our adventure begins along the scenic N2, where the majestic Paul Sauer Bridge soars 139 meters above the Storms River Valley. Next, we’ll delve into the pristine beauty of Tsitsikamma National Park. Hike through ancient forests, marvel at towering cliffs, and cross the iconic suspension bridge that spans the Storms River mouth. For the thrill-seekers, the Bloukrans Bridge beckons, offering the world’s highest commercial bungee jump. Our journey continues to Birds of Eden, a magnificent two-hectare dome housing over 3,500 birds from 220 species. Witness the wonders of African avian diversity in this unique natural sanctuary. We’ll then wind our way to the picturesque town of Knysna, nestled on the shores of the serene Knysna Lagoon. Explore the charming waterfront, admire the stunning views of the Heads, and immerse yourself in the beauty of the surrounding national park.

Our journey continues along the stunning lakes and through the Wilderness National Park. We’ll ascend the breathtaking Outeniqua Pass, leading us to Oudtshoorn, the world’s ostrich farming capital. Discover the awe-inspiring Cango Caves, a subterranean labyrinth adorned with magnificent stalactites and stalagmites. For an unforgettable wildlife encounter, consider an optional visit to the Cango Wildlife Ranch. This sanctuary is home to over 90 diverse animal species, offering guided tours that educate visitors about conservation and environmental issues.

We’ll start our day with a fascinating visit to an ostrich farm, where you can witness these majestic birds up close and learn about their unique characteristics. Our route takes us along the picturesque Route 62, through the diverse landscapes of the Little Karoo. We’ll arrive in the heart of South Africa’s wine country, visiting the renowned wine regions of Montague, Robertson, and the Breede Valley. Here, we’ll indulge in a wine-tasting experience at one of the many esteemed wine estates. As our journey continues, we’ll traverse the scenic Du Toitskloof Pass and arrive in Cape Town late afternoon, ready to explore the city’s vibrant culture and stunning natural beauty.