Itinerary

1. Day 1: Welcome to Johannesburg

   • Arrive at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.

   • Meet the guide and transfer to your hotel in a Land Rover vehicle.

   • Relax at a renowned local spot to acclimatise and enjoy the South African atmosphere.

   • Spend the rest of the day at leisure.

   Stay overnight in Johannesburg.

2. Day 2: Discover the Cradle of Humankind and Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple

   • Enjoy breakfast at the hotel.

   • Visit the UNESCO-listed Cradle of Humankind to explore archaeological wonders and learn about ancient human origins.

   • Continue to the Fo Guang Shan Nan Hua Temple for a moment of peace and cultural appreciation.

   • Transfer to Pilanesberg and check into your lodge.

   • Rest in preparation for the first safari experience.

3. Day 3: Big 5 Safari in Pilanesberg Game Reserve

   • Begin the day with an early morning game drive in Pilanesberg.

   • Search for lions, elephants, rhinos, leopards, and buffalo.

   • Spot other wildlife such as giraffes, zebras, and bird species.

   • Enjoy a midday rest followed by an afternoon safari.

   • Witness wildlife in the golden light of sunset.

4. Day 4: Second Safari Day in Pilanesberg

   • Embark on another early morning safari to locate animals not yet seen.

   • Explore diverse habitats and observe the park’s rich biodiversity.

   • Relax at the lodge before the afternoon game drive.

   • Spend the evening at leisure in the heart of the reserve.

5. Day 5: Scenic Journey to Phalaborwa

   • Drive through rural landscapes and rustic villages.

   • Experience the unspoiled beauty of the countryside.

   • Arrive in Phalaborwa, known as the gateway to Kruger National Park.

   • Prepare for upcoming wildlife encounters.

6. Day 6: Safari in Northern Kruger National Park

   • Enter the quieter northern section of Kruger National Park.

   • Search for the Big 5 and unique species such as sable antelope.

   • Enjoy scenic landscapes from open savannas to lush riverbanks.

   • Capture sunset views over the wilderness.

7. Day 7: Journey into the Central Kruger

   • Travel south into the central region of Kruger National Park.

   • Spot a variety of wildlife including elephants, lions, leopards, and bird species.

   • Experience diverse landscapes and thriving ecosystems.

8. Day 8: Conservation and Blyde River Canyon Cruise

   • Visit the Endangered Species Centre to learn about wildlife conservation.

   • Cruise along the Blyde River for views of the Blyde River Canyon.

   • Observe wildlife and enjoy the natural scenery from the water.

9. Day 9: Explore the Panorama Route

   • Visit the Three Rondavels viewpoint.

   • Admire the views from God’s Window.

   • See Lisbon Falls and Bourke’s Luck Potholes.

   • Descend into the rainforest via the Graskop Gorge Lift.

10. Day 10: Pilgrim’s Rest and Waterfalls Tour

    • Explore the historic mining town of Pilgrim’s Rest.

    • Visit Mac Mac Falls and Sabie Falls.

    • Follow the Sabie River through tranquil scenery.

    Overnight at a riverside location.

11. Day 11: Safari and History in Kruger National Park

    • Embark on a central Kruger game drive.

    • Visit Sabie Sand Nature Reserve, renowned for leopard sightings.

    • Stop at Skukuza to learn about conservation efforts.

    • Explore the historic Albasini Ruins.

12. Day 12: Northern Kruger to the Mozambique Border

    • Travel through Kruger towards the Mozambique border.

    • Pass the Crocodile Bridge and follow the Crocodile River.

    • Observe wildlife in Marloth Park.

    Stay overnight by the riverbank.

13. Day 13: Crocodile River Exploration

    • Continue wildlife viewing along the Crocodile River.

    • Revisit the Crocodile Bridge for additional sightings.

    • Photograph elephants, giraffes, and birdlife.

14. Day 14: Cross into eSwatini and Explore Sugar Plantations

    • Travel south through eSwatini.

    • Pass expansive sugarcane fields and rolling hills.

    • Visit local markets and experience Swazi culture.

15. Day 15: Explore iSimangaliso Wetland Park

    • Discover the diverse ecosystems of St. Lucia.

    • Spot crocodiles, hippos, zebras, and bird species.

    • Walk along pristine beaches and mangrove swamps.

    • Observe hippos roaming the streets at night.

16. Day 16: Safari in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park

    • Experience a Big 5 safari in Africa’s oldest game reserve.

    • Learn about rhino conservation efforts.

    • Drive through varied landscapes from savanna to woodland.

17. Day 17: Return to Johannesburg

    • Depart St. Lucia and travel back to Johannesburg.

    • Pass through farmlands, hills, and small towns.

    • Spend the evening reflecting on the journey.

18. Day 18: Departure from South Africa

    • Transfer to O.R. Tambo International Airport.

    • Bid farewell to South Africa with lasting memories of its wildlife and landscapes.