5-Day South Africa Safari – Kruger, Makalali & Panorama Route
Experience a thrilling South Africa Safari that showcases the very best of Kruger National Park, the exclusive Makalali Private Game Reserve, and the scenic Panorama Route. This 5-day journey from Johannesburg includes Big 5 game drives, breathtaking landscapes, and comfortable lodge accommodations, making it the ideal safari for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Quick Itinerary Overview
This affordable South Africa Safari starts in Johannesburg and takes you to Kruger National Park for two nights at a safari lodge. Enjoy expertly guided Big 5 game drives in Kruger before heading to a riverside lodge in Makalali Private Game Reserve. Here, you’ll take open-vehicle safaris and soak up the tranquility of the bush. The journey continues along the scenic Panorama Route with an overnight stay in Graskop before returning to Johannesburg.
Day 1: Johannesburg to Kruger National Park
Your South Africa Safari begins with a scenic drive from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park. This world-renowned park spans nearly 2 million hectares and is home to the Big 5 and over 500 bird species. Enjoy a game-viewing drive en route to your safari lodge in Skukuza, where you’ll arrive in time for dinner and a restful night in the African bush.
- Meals: Dinner
- Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Skukuza, Kruger National Park
- Included Activity: Game drive in a closed touring vehicle
- Travel Distance: 465 km
Day 2: Full-Day Safari in Kruger National Park
Set off early for a full-day South Africa Safari in Kruger National Park. Explore this iconic reserve in an open safari vehicle led by expert rangers. Spot lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes, along with many other wildlife species. Enjoy breakfast at a scenic picnic spot and return to your lodge in the late afternoon to share stories around the campfire.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Accommodation: Safari Lodge in Skukuza
- Included Activity: Full-day open-vehicle game drive
Day 3: Kruger to Makalali Private Game Reserve
After breakfast, take a final morning game drive in Kruger on your way to Orpen Gate. Then journey west to Makalali Private Game Reserve, a beautiful 26,000-hectare reserve known for its Big 5 sightings and dramatic landscapes. Check in at your riverside lodge and enjoy high tea before an afternoon game drive in an open 4×4 vehicle. Return for a delicious dinner and a peaceful night’s sleep surrounded by nature.
- Meals: Breakfast, High Tea & Dinner
- Accommodation: Riverside Safari Lodge in Makalali
- Included Activities: Afternoon and evening game drives
- Travel Distance: 255 km
Note: If the riverside lodge in Makalali is unavailable, equivalent accommodation will be arranged within the reserve or nearby.
Day 4: Makalali to Panorama Route & Graskop
Wake early for a guided bush walk or another game drive in Makalali before breakfast. Then journey through the stunning Panorama Route, one of South Africa’s most beautiful scenic drives. Stop at highlights including Blyde River Canyon, Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Lisbon Falls, God’s Window, and The Pinnacle. Arrive in the historic timber town of Graskop for dinner and overnight at a charming hotel.
- Meals: Breakfast & Dinner
- Accommodation: Hotel in Graskop
- Included Activities: Morning bush walk or game drive, Panorama Route Highlights Tour
- Travel Distance: 135 km
Day 5: Graskop to Johannesburg
Enjoy a relaxed breakfast before departing for Johannesburg. Stop for lunch en route (own expense) and arrive at OR Tambo International Airport or your designated drop-off location in the afternoon, concluding your unforgettable South Africa Safari.
- Meals: Breakfast
- Travel Distance: 385 km
Safari Notes
This 5-Day South Africa Safari departs on scheduled dates and is also available as a private tour. Contact African Budget Safaris for availability and pricing.
Child Policy
This South Africa Safari is suitable for children aged 7 years and older.