South Africa Odyssey

Summary

Experience the very best of South Africa on this enriching two-week journey that will take you from the vibrant city of Johannesburg to the picturesque landscapes of Kruger National Park, the cultural tapestry of eSwatini (Swaziland), and the breathtaking beauty of the Garden Route, culminating in the iconic city of Cape Town

Experience the diverse landscapes, cultures, and wildlife of South Africa on this unforgettable two-week odyssey.

Full Day by Day Itinerary

Sunday – Johannesburg

Arrive at OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg.
Transfer to your hotel for leisure time and a tour briefing.
Johannesburg is known for its rich history and thriving trade in gold and diamonds. Distance traveled today: 35 km.

Monday – Johannesburg to Mpumalanga

Depart for Pretoria, South Africa’s capital, for a brief orientation tour.
Continue to the Mpumalanga Province, known as “Paradise Country,” with scenic stops in Dullstroom and Lydenburg.
Arrive in Hazyview, the gateway to Kruger National Park. Distance traveled today: 425 km.

Tuesday – Mpumalanga – Panorama Route

Explore the breathtaking “Panorama Route” featuring the Blyde River Canyon, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, and God’s Window.
Return to Hazyview for leisure time. Distance traveled today: 320 km.

Wednesday – Mpumalanga – Kruger National Park

Embark on an early morning open vehicle safari in Kruger National Park.
Search for the “Big Five” and other wildlife while supporting the Anti-Poaching Dog Unit.
Afternoon at leisure with optional open vehicle game drives. Distance traveled today: 120 km.

Thursday – Mpumalanga – eSwatini (Swaziland)

Travel to eSwatini (Swaziland), an independent Kingdom within South Africa.
Experience eSwatini’s culture and traditions through an interactive cultural experience.
Overnight in the Ezulwini Valley. Distance traveled today: 310 km.

Friday – eSwatini (Swaziland) – Zululand

Continue through eSwatini and re-enter South Africa.
Travel to Zululand, passing traditional round huts and stunning vistas.
Optional afternoon open vehicle safari in Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve.
Overnight in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi region. Distance traveled today: 360 km.

Saturday – Zululand – Durban (Umhlanga)

Morning boat cruise on Lake St Lucia (weather permitting).
Journey to Durban, passing traditional Zulu Kraals, Eucalyptus plantations, and sugar cane fields.
Afternoon at leisure on Durban’s golden beaches. Overnight in Durban (Umhlanga). Distance traveled today: 275 km.

Sunday – Durban (Umhlanga) – Knysna

Transfer to Durban (Umhlanga) airport for a short flight to Port Elizabeth.
Explore the Tsitsikamma Forest and Tsitsikamma National Park.
Arrive in Knysna, known as the “oyster box” of South Africa. Overnight in Knysna. Distance traveled today: 360 km.

Monday – Knysna

Delve into Knysna’s magical forests, home to the elusive Knysna elephants.
Learn about the region’s history and indigenous forests.
Visit the Dalene Matthee Big Tree Memorial and enjoy a delicious lunch.
Explore the Forest Legends Museum showcasing woodcutter history. Distance traveled today: 100 km.

Tuesday – Knysna – Oudtshoorn

Travel through the Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, the “ostrich capital.”
Visit the ‘Map of Africa’ viewpoint and enjoy an Ostrich Farm tour.
Explore the spectacular Cango Caves. Overnight in Oudtshoorn. Distance traveled today: 210 km.

Wednesday – Oudtshoorn – Cape Town

Optional early morning Meerkat Safari, supporting wildlife conservation.
Visit a local farm school in Barrydale to interact with the children and teachers.
Arrive in Cape Town, set at the foot of Table Mountain. Distance traveled today: 468 km.

Thursday – Cape Town (unescorted)

Enjoy a full day at leisure for sightseeing or optional activities.
Evening interactive entertainment and dinner at Gold Restaurant. Overnight in Cape Town.

Friday – Cape Town

Explore the Cape Peninsula, including Cape Point, Simon’s Town, and Boulders Beach.
Discover the Penguin colony at Boulders Beach (entrance fee for own account).
Return to Cape Town for the night.