18-Day South African Coast & Kruger Safari Tour
Discover the best of Southern Africa on this exciting South African Coast & Kruger Safari. From the iconic Big 5 Kruger Safari to the stunning coastal landscapes and cultural heartlands of South Africa, this 18-day adventure blends wildlife, natural wonders, and immersive local experiences. Perfect for budget-conscious travelers, this overland journey offers comfortable lodge stays, off-the-beaten-path explorations, and unforgettable highlights across 3000 km of diverse terrain.
Tour Highlights
- Big 5 Safari in Kruger National Park and a private game reserve in Greater Kruger
- Scenic mountain drives through the Kingdom of Eswatini
- Exploration of the St Lucia coast and iSimangaliso Wetland Park
- Majestic Drakensberg Mountains and historic Zululand Battlefields
- Wild Coast beaches and Addo Elephant National Park safari
- Garden Route and Whale Coast ending in Cape Town
Day 1: Johannesburg to Kruger Safari Lodge
We begin our South African Coast & Kruger Safari in Johannesburg, heading north into the wildlife-rich Limpopo Province. After a scenic lunch stop in the quaint mountain village of Haenertsburg, we descend through the forested Magoebaskloof Pass into the Kruger Lowveld region. Arriving in a private game reserve within Greater Kruger, we settle into a comfortable tented safari lodge. Watch wildlife at the waterhole, enjoy a refreshing dip in the splash pool, and savor a traditional South African dinner under the stars.
- Meals Included: Dinner
- Accommodation: Tented Safari Lodge with en-suite bathrooms
- Travel Distance: 530 km
- Included: Scenic drive to Lowveld & accommodation in a private Greater Kruger reserve
Day 2: Greater Kruger Safari Adventure
Start your first full day on safari with coffee and traditional South African rusks before heading into the bush on a guided game walk. This three-hour walking safari offers a closer look at the tracks, plants, and animals of Greater Kruger. After brunch, enjoy downtime at the lodge before embarking on a thrilling afternoon-to-night game drive. Look out for nocturnal wildlife and toast the sunset with a scenic sundowner stop. End your day with a classic braai (BBQ) around the campfire.
- Meals Included: Brunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Tented Safari Lodge with en-suite bathrooms
- Activities: Guided bush walk & night game drive in private Greater Kruger reserve
Day 3: Panorama Route to Hazyview
After breakfast, we follow the renowned Panorama Route, one of South Africa’s most scenic drives. Admire the Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels, and stop in the historic gold rush town of Pilgrim’s Rest. After lunch overlooking the escarpment, we descend through Kowyns Pass to Hazyview. Stay in charming log cabin accommodation beside the Sabie River, surrounded by a working farm. This serene base sets the stage for your full-day Kruger Safari the following day.
- Meals Included: Breakfast & Dinner
- Accommodation: Log Cabin Safari Lodge in Hazyview
- Travel Distance: 195 km
- Included: Panorama Route – Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels, Pilgrim’s Rest
- Optional: Gorge Swing
Day 4: Big 5 Safari in Kruger National Park
We rise early and enter Kruger National Park before sunrise for a full day of game viewing in one of Africa’s premier wildlife destinations. Covering nearly 20,000 km², Kruger is home to the Big 5 and more than 140 mammal species and 500 bird species. Our expert guide will help spot wildlife and share insights into animal behavior. Expect unforgettable sightings throughout the day as we explore the park, with breaks at rest camps for meals and relaxation.
- Meals Included: Packed Breakfast Snacks & Dinner
- Accommodation: Log Cabin Safari Lodge in Hazyview
- Included: Full-day guided game drive in southern Kruger National Park
Day 5: Kruger to Eswatini
After breakfast, we leave South Africa for the Kingdom of Eswatini, a land of stunning mountain scenery and rich cultural traditions. Passing rural villages and vibrant roadside markets, we travel to a welcoming country hotel near Mbabane. Depending on time, we may stop at a local craft center to see traditional Swazi artisans at work. Settle in for a peaceful evening and enjoy a hearty local dinner in the mountains.
- Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Accommodation: Country Hotel in Eswatini
- Travel Distance: 290 km
- Included: Scenic drive through Eswatini