After breakfast, leave Johannesburg and journey towards Pretoria, the capital of South Africa, for a brief overview tour. From there, progress to the Mpumalanga Province, often referred to as “Paradise Country”. As you descend into the verdant subtropical Lowveld region, your route will take you through the historic towns of Dullstroom and Lydenburg. Upon crossing the renowned Long Tom Pass, the journey continues through Sabie, culminating in a late afternoon arrival at Hazyview, the gateway to the Kruger National Park.

Following an early breakfast, we’ll embark on a journey through the magnificent ‘Panorama Route’. This route showcases splendid vistas such as the 26-kilometre expanse of the Blyde River Canyon with its iconic Three Rondavels, the intriguing Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and the historically significant God’s Window. Here, given favorable weather conditions, you’ll be treated to a stunning view over the escarpment and onto the Kruger National Park. By late afternoon, we’ll return to Hazyview, providing you with free time to unwind and enjoy at your own pace.

Starting with an early morning refreshment of coffee or tea, the day unfolds with an exhilarating open vehicle game safari led by an English-speaking game ranger in the renowned Kruger National Park, complete with a pre-packed breakfast. This park is celebrated as one of the globe’s most illustrious wildlife reserves, playing host to an awe-inspiring variety of animals. Endeavor to spot the illustrious ‘Big Five’—rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, and elephant—alongside a rich diversity of bird species and other wildlife. During the safari, acquaint yourself with the Anti-Poaching Dog Unit (Project Watchdog), an initiative born out of the mounting global rhino poaching crisis. Understand the pivotal role of the trained dogs in tracking down poachers and detecting firearms, ammunition, and illicit wildlife products at the park’s entrances and exits. A segment of the proceeds from this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience is channeled into ensuring these vigilant canines receive superior care, reinforcing their indispensable contribution to wildlife preservation. This endeavor directly aligns with UN Global Goal 15: Life on Land. Post this immersive experience, the afternoon is open for relaxation at your hotel. For those keen on further exploration, there’s an option to extend the morning’s adventure with an afternoon open vehicle game drive (available at an additional cost).

Today, we journey to eSwatini (formerly known as Swaziland), a sovereign Kingdom nestled within the confines of South Africa, renowned for its picturesque landscapes, artisanal crafts, and vibrant native culture. An engaging cultural session, complemented by lunch, offers a glimpse into the endearing customs and traditions of the eSwatini people. We traverse through the capital, Mbabane, before reaching the scenic Ezulwini Valley where we’ll be spending the night in eSwatini. The day concludes with a delectable dinner at your hotel.

Following breakfast, our journey proceeds southward through eSwatini, subsequently crossing back into South Africa. As we traverse Zululand, you’ll witness traditional round huts set against expansive landscapes. Later in the day, there’s an opportunity to partake in an afternoon open vehicle game safari (available at an additional cost) in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve. Guided by an English-speaking game ranger, this reserve is acclaimed for its vast biodiversity, especially its commendable efforts in conserving both black and white rhinos.

Today, weather permitting, we commence our activities with a cruise on Lake St Lucia. Thereafter, we set forth towards Durban. En route, we’ll observe traditional Zulu Kraals, expansive Eucalyptus groves, and vast sugar cane fields. By early afternoon, we are expected to reach our destination. Following our arrival, you have an unguided afternoon at your disposal, presenting a perfect opportunity to relish the pristine golden beaches along the Indian Ocean.

Following breakfast, you will be transferred to Durban’s Umhlanga airport for a brief flight heading south to Gqeberha (formerly known as Port Elizabeth). Upon arrival, our representative will greet you. Once all guests have convened, we will embark on our journey westward, traversing the picturesque Garden Route that hugs the Indian Ocean coast, flanked by majestic mountains and verdant forests on its interior. Your destination will be the scenic town of Knysna, often referred to as South Africa’s oyster haven, splendidly situated by a captivating lagoon at the Garden Route’s core.

Following your morning meal, you’ll explore the breathtaking Tsitsikamma National Park and, if weather permits, the Storms River Mouth. Delve deep into the enchanting Knysna Forests, historically the territory of the elusive Knysna elephants. Unearth tales of the forest woodcutters, the sadly overhunted elephants, and the region’s golden discoveries. Our forest excursion commences with a stop at the Dalene Matthee Big Tree Memorial, a grand Yellowwood tree aged over 880 years, christened in honour of Matthee, the acclaimed author known for her narratives on the Knysna Forest. Midday will see you savoring a traditional lunch enriched with local delicacies. Conclude your day with an overnight stay in Knysna, culminating in a dinner at the esteemed Drydock Restaurant, which prides itself on its culinary masterpieces crafted from the freshest local ingredients and herbs native to the area.

Journey through the Outeniqua Pass towards Oudtshoorn, recognized as the “ostrich capital” and the global epicenter of Ostrich farming. En route, make a stop at ‘Dolphin Point’ in Wilderness, a viewpoint offering unparalleled scenic beauty. Once in Oudtshoorn, partake in an engaging tour of an Ostrich Farm, followed by a light lunch featuring regional delicacies, including Ostrich Steak. Subsequently, marvel at the awe-inspiring limestone formations of the Cango Caves, a natural marvel sculpted by millennia of geological processes. By late afternoon, you’ll reach your hotel, providing ample time for check-in and relaxation prior to dinner, which will be at your own expense.

For those interested, there is an optional early morning Meerkat Safari available at an additional cost, contingent upon availability. Experience these remarkable wild creatures as they surface from their burrows, greeting the sunrise before embarking on their daily pursuits (weather-dependent). A segment of the funds from this MAKE TRAVEL MATTER® Experience contributes to the Buffelsdrift Foundation, which emphasizes wildlife and habitat conservation in the Klein Karoo area, as well as supporting the local community. This initiative aligns with the UN Global Goal 15: Life on Land. Upon completing this captivating encounter, return for a sumptuous breakfast.

Post-breakfast, venture through the ‘Little Karoo’ arriving in Barrydale. Here, you’re afforded the chance to visit a local farm school, engaging with its students and educators. This provides an invaluable insight into the life and education of this rural community. A fraction of the journey’s proceeds is allocated to the Barrydale Farm School Development Fund, championing the education of disadvantaged children in remote areas. (Note: School visits hinge on the institution’s operational status). Concluding the day’s journey, arrive in Cape Town, majestically positioned at the base of Table Mountain.

Savor an entire day at your leisure. You might consider a sightseeing expedition of Cape Town and Table Mountain (at your own expense), or accompany us on a Marine Big Five Safari (also at your own expense). On this 2-hour boat journey, with marine experts accompanying, there’s a chance to witness great white sharks, whales, Cape fur seals, and a myriad of seabirds, gaining insights into these incredible marine species frequenting our coasts. Though compact, Cape Town brims with attractions, from notable sightseeing spots to vibrant bars, cafes, and restaurants, not to mention the lively craft markets. Conclude your day with an immersive evening at Gold Restaurant, blending delightful cuisine with engaging entertainment.

Embark on an immersive full-day expedition of the Cape Peninsula, capturing the essence of Africa’s unparalleled coastal beauty. As you journey through Sea Point and the charming seaside hamlet of Hout Bay, you have the opportunity to further enhance your experience with a seal island boat cruise (available at an additional cost). Venture onwards to the iconic Cape Point, a legendary spot where the tempestuous Atlantic and tranquil Indian Oceans are believed to converge. As we navigate back to Cape Town, we’ll grace the historic Simon’s Town and introduce you to the delightful Penguin colony at Boulders Beach (entrance on guest’s account), culminating with a picturesque pause at the Fish Hoek fishing enclave.

Savor a final opportunity for independent shopping or sightseeing (at your own expense). For those interested in delving deeper into South Africa’s rich history, the Robben Island Tour, departing from the Victoria & Alfred Waterfront, is a profound journey worth considering (subject to availability and time constraints). Alternatively, explore the myriad of boutiques and shops catering to a spectrum of preferences and budgets. As your African adventure nears its conclusion, arrangements will be made for your transfer to the airport, harbour, or railway station, setting the course for your subsequent journey.