Kruger National Park Safari

  • 10 Days
  • 12 People Max

    6 - 12 guests

  • Activity Level 2
    • Activity Level 2

      On the Move

      Sure, I own some hiking boots, they're even worn in, but they don't go on long trips. I like my creature comforts and I like to give a range of activities a go.

    Read more about the Active Range

  • Trip Start: Johannesburg
  • Trip End: Cape Town
kruger food

On the steps of the Big 5

Follow the steps of the Big 5 on our Kruger National Park safari. This trip is the perfect way to immerse yourself into Africa’s wilderness and bring you a breath away from an impressive array of wildlife. You’ll track the steps of the Big 5 with expert safari guides and enjoy a mix of remote safari camps and lodges near the renowned national park of South Africa, climb iconic Table Mountain in captivating coastal Cape Town, and bike through the lush vineyards and historic towns of the Cape Winelands region.

Foodie? South Africa’s cuisine is as rich and vibrant as its landscapes: you will breakfast on the private patio of your luxury safari tent while watching the sunrise, picnic lunch amidst a mighty canyon beneath the towering peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains, taste internationally acclaimed wines among laden grapevines, and dine on exquisite local produce in seaside restaurants overlooking the white beaches out to the Atlantic.  

Trip Highlights

Table Mountain

HikingHiking

Blyde River Canyon

HikingHiking

Franschhoek Vineyards

BikingBiking

Game drives in Kruger National Park

Plus ...Plus ...

Cape Town

Plus ...Plus ...

Winetasting

Plus ...Plus ...

Local Cuisine & GOLD Restaurant

Plus ...Plus ...

Kruger National Park Safari ~ Itinerary

Trip Start: Johannesburg Trip End: Cape Town
  • Day 1Arrive to Johannesburg, travel to Limpopo Province

  • Day 2Hike the Blyde River Canyon

  • Day 3Travel to Kruger National Park, home of the ‘Big 5’

  • Day 4Game Drives in Kruger National Park

  • Day 5Game Drives in Kruger National Park

  • Day 6Travel to Cape Town, free time to explore the city

  • Day 7Walking Tour of Cape Town, Hike Table Mountain

  • Day 8Bike tour of Franschhoek Winelands area and winetasting

  • Day 9Foodie Tour of Stellenbosch

  • Day 10Transfer back to Cape Town, “Hamba kahle" South Africa!

  • Day 1

    Arrive to Johannesburg, travel to Limpopo Province

    We’ll meet at the Oliver Tambo Airport in Johannesburg and head northeast via the Panorama Route through the Mpumalanga province. We’ll stop along the way to explore geological wonders such as the Lisbon Falls, and the Three Rondavels, before lunching at the magnificent Graskop Gorge Lift. We’ll arrive at the beautiful Blyde River Canyon Lodge nestled on an 85-hectare (210-acre) botanical reserve, by the sparkling waters of the Blyde River. Don’t be surprised if free-roaming zebras and other wildlife come and visit you in the tranquil gardens outside your room!

    Blyde River Canyon Lodge, Limpopo Province (Breakfast, Lunch)

  • Day 2

    Hike the Blyde River Canyon

    Today we hike the world’s largest green canyon, which spans 26 km (16 miles) and reaches depths of 800 meters (2625 feet). First stop is a visit to the 1800 hectare (4448-acre) Cape Vulture Conservancy. Here you’ll see a variety of plains game, stunning flora, impressive rock formations and a dazzling array of birdlife. Then onto our half-day hike of the Blyde River Canyon situated under the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains. The hike finishes with a harvest table lunch set in a private garden with spectacular views of the mountains and citrus fruits growing all around. Then it’s back to the luxurious lodge to relax, take a dip in the pool and enjoy the beautiful facilities and surroundings.

    Blyde River Canyon Lodge, Limpopo Province (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: Cape Vultures Conservancy Hike: 10 kilometres (6.2 miles), 1-1.5 hours, (guests can stop at any time should they wish to)
    Hiking: Blyde River Canyon Hike: 2.1 kilometres (1.3 miles), 1-1.5 hours

  • Day 3

    Travel to Kruger National Park, home of the ‘Big 5’

    Enjoy a relaxing morning before heading to the south-western region of Kruger National Park. Located in the land known as Mpumalanga (Zulu for “the sun rises”), this is one of the most beautiful provinces in South Africa, with spectacular canyons, pristine rivers, waterfalled mountains, and impressive caves to explore. We will stay in the Mdluli Safari Lodge, featuring luxurious tent style accommodations with private patios, indoor and outdoor showers, and magnificent views out over the park. After a preview of what’s to come in the days ahead, we’ll head back to freshen up before dinner, and enjoy a sundowner in great company around the fire pit. Rest up tonight – your first morning game drive is tomorrow!

    Mdluli Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 4

    Game Drives in Kruger National Park

    Start your morning at sunrise with an invigorating cup of coffee and light snack, before setting off on our first morning game drive. Today’s game drive takes us through the Kruger National Park in search of the ‘Big 5’ and all the other animals who call this area home. Our knowledgeable local guides are experts at deciding which areas of the wilderness to focus our attention on, and at which times of the day – all with the utmost safety in mind. We’ll return to the lodge for breakfast, followed by a few hours of free time. We’ll then regroup for a late lunch before heading back out for another afternoon game drive, extending into the early evening – a great time to see some of the big cats as they start their nightly prowl. A traditional dinner awaits you on your return, before sleeping under the stars.

    Mdluli Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 5

    Game Drives in Kruger National Park

    Another morning game driving awaits us today! Your guides may head back to areas where you encountered animals yesterday, or you may explore new areas. The day will run similarly to yesterday, with an early start, coffee, and a light snack, before heading out to look for the early risers. Lions are most active in the early morning and at sunset, as they rest for up to 20 hours per day! You’ll head back to the lodge for breakfast, some leisurely relaxation time, and lunch before heading back out to explore the area one last time. We’ll have a stop for sundowners and snacks before heading back to the lodge for a hot shower, and our final delicious dinner together before we head to the city tomorrow!

    Mdluli Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 6

    Travel to Cape Town, free time to explore the city

    After an early breakfast it will be time to say farewell to the savannah and transfer to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for your flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, and the afternoon is yours to explore the city the New York Times voted the best place in the world to visit! Tomorrow starts with a tour of the city, so you can choose to just take it easy this afternoon in a cafe or at your hotel, before re-grouping for dinner at Bilboa Restaurant, beautifully situated overlooking Camps Bay and out to the Atlantic Ocean.

    President Hotel, Cape Town (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 7

    Walking Tour of Cape Town, Hike Table Mountain

    Today you’ll embark on a walking tour highlighting the dramatic history of Cape Town. You’ll visit the bustling streets of old buildings and squares, learn about the story of Dutch and British rule, slavery and apartheid, and freedom and democracy. City tour highlights include the Adderley Street Flower Market, the Castle of Good Hope, Bo-Kaap (Malay Quarter), and the Slavery Precinct. You’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch by the waterfront, before heading to iconic Table Mountain, where you’ll ascend by cable car - or on a guided hike - offering brilliant views out over Cape Town, to the 12 Apostles. There’s the option to continue hiking to the highest point before coming down by cable car, enjoying 360-degree views on the way. We’ll conclude the day with a 14-course ‘taste safari’ gourmet dinner at GOLD Restaurant, which will take you on a culinary voyage from Table Mountain to Timbuktu. Enjoy interactive traditional entertainment while you dine.

    President Hotel, Cape Town (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Hiking: OPTIONAL Table Mountain Hike: 6 kilometres (3.7 miles), 4-5 hours, elevation + 800 meters (2,625 feet), Jeep track, single rocky track, stone steps, ladders

  • Day 8

    Bike tour of Franschhoek Winelands area and winetasting

    After breakfast, we’ll drive two hours to Franschhoek, a charming French picture-perfect town founded in the late 1600s, where cheese factories, art galleries and wine estates abound. From here you’ll set off on a leisurely cycling tour through the scenic back roads of the Cape Winelands, indulging in a bit of wine tasting along the way. Surrounded by the dramatic Groot Drakenstein Mountains, you will cycle past the internationally acclaimed wine estates of La Motte, Moreson, and Graham Beck. After the bike ride there’ll be time for a refreshing swim at the hotel pool, before heading back to town for a group dinner at Rueben’s, an exquisite glass-fronted eatery with a sophisticated dining menu. Franschhoek is the culinary capital of South Africa - enjoy finding out why over tonight’s dinner!

    Protea Hotel by Marriott, Franschhoek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

    Biking: 18 kilometres (11 miles), 2-3 hours

  • Day 9

    Foodie Tour of Stellenbosch

    This morning you’ll head to Stellenbosch to walk the town on a half day ‘foodie tour,’ exploring all the famous cafes, art galleries, historical sites and other delights that make this town so special. In addition to its international wine reputation, Stellenbosch is also home to curated, public art exhibitions. During our leisurely walk you’ll get an insider’s perspective with an expert guide, savoring the handiwork of passionate food artisans, and celebrated artists in the outdoor art exhibition. Here you’ll indulge in an award-winning gin experience with light snacks, sample fine Stellenbosch craft beers with flavorful bites, enjoy local produce served with artisan bread, and sip a liquid ‘dessert’ at an innovative coffee laboratory. We’ll return to Franschhoek, and the afternoon is yours to explore. Our last dinner together tonight will be at the Grande Provence Restaurant, situated on one of the most beautiful heritage estates in Franschhoek.

    Protea Hotel by Marriott, Franschhoek (Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner)

  • Day 10

    Transfer back to Cape Town, “Hamba kahle" South Africa!

    Sadly, our last day is already here, so following breakfast you will be transferred to Cape Town International Airport to say farewell (“Hamba Kahle” in Zulu) to your group companions and guide. You’ll go home with amazing safari stories to tell, and undoubtedly hundreds of incredible pictures to share.

    (Breakfast)

Kruger National Park Safari Departure Dates

  • Upcoming
  • 3 months
  • 6 months
  • 1 year
USD $6499/per adult
Not ready to book yet?

Get in touch with our specialized team to find out more and get personalized advice.

  • Speak with one of our specialists
  • Confirm trip details
  • Discuss your specific needs
15 Apr 2024
2024
15 Apr24 Apr
Departure Open Open
6 May 2024
2024
6 May15 May
Departure Open Open
1 Jul 2024
2024
1 Jul10 Jul
Departure Open Open
12 Aug 2024
2024
12 Aug21 Aug
Departure Open Open
23 Oct 2024
2024
23 Oct1 Nov
Departure Open Open
16 Nov 2024
2024
16 Nov25 Nov
Departure Open Open

Included

  • Our own highly experienced trip leader, with you from start to finish
  • Specialist local guides and camp crews while on safari (applicable for our Kruger National Park, Okavango Delta, and Serengeti safaris)
  • A team of expert local guides and porters for the duration of the Kilimanjaro trek (applicable for our Mt Kilimanjaro Trek only)
  • Industry-leading Guest-to-Guide ratio (averaging 6:1)
  • Your own ‘Travel Wallet’, an online space with everything required for your adventure
  • Our knowledgeable Customer Service Team to answer your queries - just a phone call, email or chat away
  • Customer Service pre-trip phone calls to ensure you’re 'trip ready'
  • All accommodations for the duration of your trip 
  • All meals except where indicated in the itinerary
  • Unlimited snacks to keep you fueled
  • Flights as outlined in the itinerary
  • All activities outlined in the itinerary 
  • All necessary equipment (well-maintained and safe) for activities
  • Down jacket, sleeping bag, and hiking poles for the duration of the Kilimanjaro trek
  • All gratuities for hotels, restaurants, and activities
  • All park and other entry fees
  • Transportation in our air-conditioned 4x4 safari vehicles - safe, clean, modern, and comfortable!
Austin PIF 2

Take 10% off the trip price when you book a trip and pay in full.

By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. 

We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. Please note CFAR insurance can only be purchased within 14 days of booking. We recommend Redpoint Insurance – you can find details here.

T+Cs Apply.

BOOKING CONDITIONS

Useful Info

Where does the trip start?

On the first morning of the trip, our two pick-up locations are the Oliver Tambo Airport (JNB) at the Information Desk in the International arrivals hall at 9am or Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Hotel at 9:30am. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Johannesburg, though you must make your own way to one of the two pick-up points at the pre-designated times.

Where does the trip end?

Your trip ends with a drop-off at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in time for flights below.

What flights would you recommend?

Arrival: We recommend arriving in Johannesburg at least the day before your trip starts and staying at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo, which offers complimentary airport shuttle services. If you do fly in on the first day of the trip, we recommend arriving in Johannesburg before 6am, to clear immigration and collect your luggage.

Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Cape Town after 2pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.

How fit do I need to be for this safari?

As an Activity Level 1-2 trip, you’ll need a good level of fitness for this safari. While you don’t have to be extremely fit, you should be in the habit of doing medium to long walks. Each walking activity will comprise of two walks per day; a 3-4 hour walk in the morning and a 2-3 hour walk in the afternoon and up to 15 kilometers a day (9 miles). Most of the walks on this trip are from 2 to 3 hours at a relaxed pace. The terrain in the Kruger Park is arid and very flat with some thick bush patches and dry sand riverbeds. With a little preparation before your trip begins, you’ll enjoy the active and outdoor nature of your trip all the more. Please head to our Fitness Guide for great tips on how to prepare along with a workout plan!

What accommodations do we stay at on this safari?

We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable lodges as well as getting out and amongst it all in luxury tents. The lodges we stay in will provide private suites with ensuites, and some with private decks and the potential of seeing game in the adjacent bush. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry a couple of times during your safari and while there are laundry facilities at most locations, there will be an extra cost and you’ll also need to purchase laundry detergent from the reception areas.

How much luggage can I bring on this safari?

You are allowed one piece of luggage on your trip, plus a daypack. Your main piece of luggage should not exceed 50 pounds (23 kilograms) and can be anything from a duffle bag to a sports bag with wheels or a suitcase. You’ll also want a good quality daypack sized 25-30 liters (2000 cubic inches) with a maximum weight of 15 pounds (7 kilograms) to use throughout the days.

Tell me more about the bike ride?

It’s luxury mountain bike tour through the Franschhoek winelands with lots of flexibility. If you want to ride all day, go for it. If you want to potter around town on your bike stopping at every vineyard for a tasting that’s also cool! There will be a back-up vehicle within Franschhoek, excellent and varied wine estates, tastings and cellar tours and gourmet canapes for lunch.

You’ll be provided with a Titan or Silverback Hardtail 29'er bike with a 1 x 10 groupset and tubeless tyres. With hydraulic disc brakes, our bikes are ready for smooth pavement, undulating dirt roads, and anything else that may stand between us and our destination.

Is tipping expected in South Africa?

Tips for your guides, included restaurants and service tips are included in the trip price. For other restaurants or services during your holiday, 5-10% is a typical gratuity amount.

How do rooming arrangements work?

Trip prices are based on shared arrangements (typically two guests per room), unless otherwise stated. For solo travelers, we’ll pair you with another person of the same gender to share rooms and if there’s no one suitable to share with, there’s no forced single supplement. However, if you specifically request your own rooms, you can opt to pay the single supplement. Solo travelers who book within 90 days of departure, where there are no other solo travelers willing to share, will be required to pay the single supplement. 

For Family Vacation bookings, families consisting of four guests traveling with children aged 17 and under will be automatically assigned one shared room. However, the following alternative rooming allocations are available:

  • Families consisting of four guests with all children aged 13 and above are welcome to opt for additional rooms as per advertised double occupancy adult rates.
  • Families consisting of four guests with at least one child aged 12 and under are automatically assigned a shared room. However, families can opt to pay the adult rates for all guests in their family to have an additional room.
  • The same principles apply for families consisting of more than four guests.

Rooming preferences are subject to availability and must be communicated in writing at time of booking. Automatic assignments as per this policy will be applied in the absence of any specification provided by guests. Any request for additional rooms during trips will be at guests’ own expense and subject to rates made available by the accommodation provider at the time. All minors (guests aged 17 and under) must be accompanied by at least one adult.

show more

show less

Why Travel With Us

benefit group size v2

Just-right group sizes allow you to get off the beaten path

With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you’ll enjoy a highly personalized experience.

benefit guides v2

Award-winning guides lead the way

It’s so much easier to relax and enjoy your adventure when you have fun, caring guides who know the land, sweat all the details and whip up incredible meals, too!

benefit all inclusive

You’ll never need to sweat the details

When we say all inclusive, we mean it! Meals and snacks, activities, lodging, transportation, guiding services and more. All you need to do is show up!

Scout Badges 100x100 15

Enjoy freedom to push your boundaries – safely

Every aspect of your trip is thoroughly considered for your safety, from highly vetted partners and well-maintained equipment to extensively trained guides.

benefit family v3

Decades of expertise mean you’ll experience only the best

Family travel and North American National Parks are our specialty. We’ve perfected our itineraries for decades, ensuring you'll experience your destination to the fullest.

Scout Badges 100x100 3

"Wow Moments” take your trip from enjoyable to extraordinary

For us, the extra mile is never extra, it’s part of the way! Count on special touches throughout your trip that will amplify your experience.

Trip Inquiry

Africa

Kruger National Park Safari

USD $6499/per adult
$500 USD deposit per person required to secure your place on the trip

What To Expect

  • Place your booking
  • Receive your confirmation email & details to set up your Travel Wallet
  • Our dedicated team will keep you up to date all the way to the departure date

Dates

2024

April 2024

Monday 15 April 2024
To Wednesday 24 April 2024
Open

Monday 6 May 2024
To Wednesday 15 May 2024
Open

Monday 1 July 2024
To Wednesday 10 July 2024
Open

Monday 12 August 2024
To Wednesday 21 August 2024
Open

Wednesday 23 October 2024
To Friday 1 November 2024
Open

Saturday 16 November 2024
To Monday 25 November 2024
Open