7 Day Budget South Africa Safari – Kruger, Hluhluwe & iSimangaliso
Quick Itinerary Overview
Embark on a one-week Budget South Africa Safari, exploring Kruger National Park, Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, and St Lucia. This affordable safari combines wildlife adventures with comfortable, budget-friendly lodge accommodation. Get ready to experience Africa’s stunning wildlife and diverse landscapes, from the Big 5 to coastal wetlands!
Itinerary for this Tour
Day 1: Johannesburg to Balule Game Reserve, Greater Kruger – South Africa
Your South Africa Safari begins with a shuttle from Johannesburg or OR Tambo Airport. Journey through the scenic Highveld grasslands and enjoy lunch in Dullstroom (own expense). Arrive at Balule Game Reserve in Greater Kruger National Park, where you’ll enjoy a 4-hour game drive in an open 4×4 Land Cruiser, spotting the Big 5. Afterward, savor a traditional barbecue dinner at the boma. Spend the night in comfortable, air-conditioned chalets.
- Meals included: Dinner
- Activities included: Sunset to Night Game Drive & Boma Dining Experience
- Accommodation: Budget Safari Lodge in Balule Game Reserve
Day 2: Balule Nature Reserve, Greater Kruger Park – South Africa
Start the day with a guided bush walk along the Olifants River, exploring the beauty of Greater Kruger’s flora and fauna. After brunch, enjoy a 4-hour afternoon game drive, seeking the Big 5 and other wildlife. Return to the lodge for a delicious dinner and overnight stay.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
- Activities included: Morning Bush Walk & Afternoon Game Drive
- Accommodation: Budget Safari Lodge in Balule Game Reserve
Day 3: Kruger National Park Safari – South Africa
Today is dedicated to a full-day safari in Kruger National Park, one of Africa’s largest and most renowned game reserves. Explore the park’s rich wildlife, including lions, giraffes, and zebras, in an open-sided safari vehicle. Enjoy lunch at one of the park’s rest camps before returning to the lodge for dinner.
- Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
- Activities included: Full-day 4×4 Kruger Safari
- Accommodation: Budget Safari Lodge in Balule Game Reserve
Day 4: Balule to Hluhluwe & iSimangaliso Area – South Africa
After breakfast, travel to the Hluhluwe Game Reserve area in KwaZulu-Natal. Enjoy the scenic drive to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, where you will stay in a private bush camp nestled in lush vegetation. Look out for the local birdlife and smaller antelopes during your stay.
- Meals included: Breakfast & Dinner
- Activities included: Full-day 4×4 Scenic Drive
- Accommodation: Private Bush Camp (Free Wi-Fi, Bar with TV, Swimming Pool)
Day 5: Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park – South Africa
Spend the day at Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, Africa’s oldest game reserve. Renowned for its conservation efforts in saving the white rhino, this park offers exceptional Big 5 viewing. After lunch in the park, return to the camp for dinner and enjoy the night sounds of the bush.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
- Activities included: Full-day 4×4 Safari in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park
- Accommodation: Private Bush Camp (Free Wi-Fi, Bar with TV, Swimming Pool)
Day 6: Isimangaliso Wetland Park & St Lucia – South Africa
Explore the World Heritage Site of iSimangaliso Wetland Park, home to Lake St Lucia and a rich array of wildlife. After a boat cruise to spot hippos and crocodiles, enjoy a swim in the Indian Ocean and relax in the charming village of St Lucia. End the day with dinner at the camp and a night around the campfire.
- Meals included: Breakfast, Picnic Lunch & Dinner
- Activities included: 4×4 Trip & Boat Cruise in iSimangaliso Wetland Park
- Accommodation: Private Bush Camp
Day 7: St Lucia to Durban – South Africa
The final day starts with an early morning nature walk in the private game reserve before departing for Durban. Enjoy one last chance to experience South Africa’s wildlife and stunning scenery before heading to King Shaka International Airport for your departure.
- Meals included: Breakfast
- Activities included: Morning Bush Walk
Additional Safari Information
About Balule Nature Reserve
Balule Nature Reserve, part of the Greater Kruger National Park, is renowned for its thriving Big 5 population. This 23,000 km² reserve offers affordable and immersive safari experiences, including thrilling game drives and expert-guided bush walks.
About Kruger National Park
As one of Africa’s largest game reserves, Kruger National Park spans nearly 20,000 km² and is home to an impressive variety of wildlife, including the iconic Big 5. A visit to Kruger offers an unforgettable safari experience.
About Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park
Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park is the oldest proclaimed game reserve in Africa. It’s famed for its successful conservation efforts and is home to the Big 5, making it a must-visit for safari enthusiasts.
About iSimangaliso Wetland Park
iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, known for its diverse ecosystems, from wetlands to coastal dunes. It’s a unique spot to experience South Africa’s natural beauty, including boat cruises for wildlife sightings.
Booking Information
This Budget South Africa Safari is designed for travelers seeking an affordable yet immersive safari experience. Accommodation is in budget-friendly lodges and private bush camps, ensuring a comfortable stay throughout the tour. With a mix of wildlife viewing, scenic drives, and cultural experiences, this 7-day adventure is perfect for those looking to explore South Africa’s top safari destinations.