Essential South Africa - Overland Trip

Itineraries

Arrival in Pretoria

Driving through Mpumalanga province, we’ll visit the historic town of Pilgrim’s Rest then continue along the Panorama Route until we arrive at Graskop. (BLD)

This morning we head to Kruger National Park for an afternoon game drive. (BLD)

We enjoy two game drives today, hoping to spot the Big Five. (BL)

Travel to the kingdom of Swaziland, where we base ourselves in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary Nature Reserve. We have opportunities for hiking, cycling or horseriding. (BLD)

The oldest game reserve in South Africa gives us excellent opportunities to spot rhino – this is one of the best places for viewing these magnificent animals in the wild. We take a game drive, and a boat ride at nearby picturesque St Lucia as well as visiting a nearby Zulu village to learn more about their culture and customs. (BLD)

Travel into the Drakensberg Mountains, home to South Africa’s most stunning scenery. We have the opportunity to take a number of hikes, go fishing for trout, swim in clear mountain streams, or ride horses to get close to some of the many antelope species that live here. (BLD)

The tiny country of Lesotho, completely surrounded by South Africa, has to be one of the prettiest places on the continent. Old traditions abound here, giving us a fantastic opportunity to witness authentic village life. We embark on a two day pony trek through the mountains, spending one night in a local village hut. Undoubtedly one of the highlights of the trip. (BLD)

Leaving the mountains behind we travel through the deserts of the Karoo, an austere but beautiful area, and visit the Valley of Desolation. (BLD)

This area is on the border of the Southern and Eastern Cape and is known for indigenous rainforests. There are a number of optional activities available here; choose from exploring the forest canopy on a unique guided tour, exploring the national park on foot, mountain biking, snorkelling or canoeing. (BLD)

A full day to enjoy the many activities on offer here, such as hiking or taking a boat cruise on Storm’s River. (BLD)

Knysna offers a host of activities, from boat trips on the lagoon and whale watching (in season) to abseiling and hiking through forests. Our time here is free to choose from the options available. (BL)

This coastal nature reserve has great hiking and cycling trails and at the right time of year, great numbers of whales can be seen off shore. It is also home to zebra, eland and caracal – even the occasional leopard – and is fantastic for birdwatching. (BLD)

Head to Stellenbosch, in the heart of the Cape Winelands area, where there is the chance to visit a wine farm and taste the varieties of wine produced here. (BLD)

Our last stop is the ‘Mother City’ of Cape Town, reputedly Africa’s most beautiful city. We take a tour of the Cape Peninsula, visiting highlights such as Chapman’s Peak, Cape Point, Simonstown and Boulder’s Beach. (B)

Tour ends (B).