Experience the very best of South Africa as you marvel at magnificent wildlife roaming freely in their natural habitat in Kruger National Park, climb iconic Table Mountain in Cape Town for sweeping coastal views, and bike through the sun-drenched vineyards of the Cape Winelands, tasting world-class wines along the way and soak in the relaxed charm of the countryside.
Start - End: Johannesburg CBD - Cape Town
Total trip: 10 days
Average group size: 12 people
Level: 2
Gallery
Follow the steps of the Big 5 on our Kruger National Park safari. This trip is the perfect way to immerse yourself into Africa’s wilderness and bring you a breath away from an impressive array of wildlife. You’ll track the steps of the Big 5 with expert safari guides and enjoy a mix of remote safari camps and lodges near the renowned national park of South Africa, climb iconic Table Mountain in captivating coastal Cape Town, and bike through the lush vineyards and historic towns of the Cape Winelands region.
Foodie? South Africa’s cuisine is as rich and vibrant as its landscapes: you will breakfast on the private patio of your luxury safari tent while watching the sunrise, picnic lunch amidst a mighty canyon beneath the towering peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains, taste internationally acclaimed wines among laden grapevines, and dine on exquisite local produce in seaside restaurants overlooking the white beaches out to the Atlantic.
Table Mountain
Climb the trails of iconic Table Mountain for sweeping views over Cape Town, the ocean, and the rugged Cape Peninsula.
Blyde River Canyon
Explore the lush Blyde River Canyon, where emerald cliffs and cascading waterfalls create one of South Africa’s most breathtaking landscapes.
Franschhoek Vineyards
Cycle through sun-drenched vineyards in Franschhoek, stopping to taste award-winning wines and soak in the valley’s serene beauty.
Game drives in Kruger National Park
Experience the thrill of a safari in Kruger National Park, spotting lions, elephants, and giraffes roaming free across vast savannahs.
Cape Town
Discover Cape Town’s vibrant blend of culture, color, and coastline, from its lively waterfront to its rich history and warm hospitality.
Wine tasting
Savor the flavors of South Africa with world-class wines and scenic tastings in some of the country’s most beautiful vineyards.
Local Cuisine & GOLD Restaurant
Dine on authentic African cuisine at GOLD Restaurant, where storytelling, rhythm, and flavor combine for an unforgettable evening.
Each day promises a world of adventure as you travel through Kruger National Park then onto the cosmopolitan city of Cape Town.
Click map to explore.
Gallery
We’ll meet at the Oliver Tambo Airport in Johannesburg and head northeast via the Panorama Route through the Mpumalanga province. We’ll stop along the way to explore geological wonders such as the Lisbon Falls, and the Three Rondavels, before lunching at the magnificent Graskop Gorge Lift.
We’ll arrive at the beautiful Blyde River Canyon Lodge nestled on an 85-hectare (210-acre) botanical reserve, by the sparkling waters of the Blyde River. Don’t be surprised if free-roaming zebras and other wildlife come and visit you in the tranquil gardens outside your room!
Accommodation: Blyde River Canyon Lodge, Limpopo Province
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we hike the world’s largest green canyon, which spans 16 miles (26 kilometers) and reaches depths of 2,625 feet (800 meters). First stop is a visit to the 1,800 hectare (4,448-acre) Cape Vulture Conservancy. Here you’ll see a variety of plains game, stunning flora, impressive rock formations and a dazzling array of birdlife. Then onto our half-day hike of the Blyde River Canyon situated under the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains.
The hike finishes with a harvest table lunch set in a private garden with spectacular views of the mountains and citrus fruits growing all around.
Then it’s back to the luxurious lodge to relax, take a dip in the pool and enjoy the beautiful facilities and surroundings.
Accommodation: Blyde River Canyon Lodge, Limpopo Province
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cape Vultures Conservancy Hike: 6.2 miles (10 kilometers), 1-1.5 hours, (guests can stop at any time should they wish to)
Blyde River Canyon Hike: 1.3 miles (2.1 kilometers), 1-1.5 hours
Enjoy a relaxing morning before heading to the south-western region of Kruger National Park. Located in the land known as Mpumalanga (Zulu for “the sun rises”), this is one of the most beautiful provinces in South Africa, with spectacular canyons, pristine rivers, waterfalled mountains, and impressive caves to explore.
We will stay in the Mdluli Safari Lodge, featuring luxurious tent style accommodations with private patios, indoor and outdoor showers, and magnificent views out over the park. After a preview of what’s to come in the days ahead, we’ll head back to freshen up before dinner, and enjoy a sundowner in great company around the fire pit.
Rest up tonight – your first morning game drive is tomorrow!
Accommodation: Mdluli Safari Lodge or Nkambeni Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Start your morning at sunrise with an invigorating cup of coffee and light snack, before setting off on our first morning game drive. Today’s game drive takes us through the Kruger National Park in search of the ‘Big 5’ and all the other animals who call this area home. Our knowledgeable local guides are experts at deciding which areas of the wilderness to focus our attention on, and at which times of the day all with the utmost safety in mind.
We’ll return to the lodge for breakfast, followed by a few hours of free time. We’ll then regroup for a late lunch before heading back out for another afternoon game drive, extending into the early evening – a great time to see some of the big cats as they start their nightly prowl.
A traditional dinner awaits you on your return, before sleeping under the stars.
Accommodation: Mdluli Safari Lodge or Nkambeni Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Another morning game driving awaits us today! Your guides may head back to areas where you encountered animals yesterday, or you may explore new areas. The day will run similarly to yesterday, with an early start, coffee, and a light snack, before heading out to look for the early risers. Lions are most active in the early morning and at sunset, as they rest for up to 20 hours per day!
You’ll head back to the lodge for breakfast, some leisurely relaxation time, and lunch before heading back out to explore the area one last time.
We’ll have a stop for sundowners and snacks before heading back to the lodge for a hot shower, and our final delicious dinner together before we head to the city tomorrow!
Accommodation: Mdluli Safari Lodge or Nkambeni Safari Lodge, Kruger National Park
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
After an early breakfast it will be time to say farewell to the savannah and transfer to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for your flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, and the afternoon is yours to explore the city the New York Times voted the best place in the world to visit!
Tomorrow starts with a tour of the city, so you can choose to just take it easy this afternoon in a cafe or at your hotel, before re-grouping for dinner at Bilboa Restaurant, beautifully situated overlooking Camps Bay and out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Accommodation: City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today you’ll embark on a walking tour highlighting the dramatic history of Cape Town. You’ll visit the bustling streets of old buildings and squares, learn about the story of Dutch and British rule, slavery and apartheid, and freedom and democracy. City tour highlights include the Adderley Street Flower Market, the Castle of Good Hope, Bo-Kaap (Malay Quarter), and the Slavery Precinct.
You’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch by the waterfront, before heading to iconic Table Mountain, where you’ll ascend by cable car - or on a guided hike - offering brilliant views out over Cape Town, to the 12 Apostles. There’s the option to continue hiking to the highest point before coming down by cable car, enjoying 360-degree views on the way.
We’ll conclude the day with a 14-course ‘taste safari’ gourmet dinner at GOLD Restaurant, which will take you on a culinary voyage from Table Mountain to Timbuktu. Enjoy interactive traditional entertainment while you dine.
Accommodation: City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront, Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Table Mountain Hike: 3.7 miles (6 kilometers), 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,625 feets (800 meter) ascent
Jeep track, single rocky track, stone steps, ladders
After breakfast, we’ll drive two hours to Franschhoek, a charming French picture-perfect town founded in the late 1600s, where cheese factories, art galleries and wine estates abound. From here you’ll set off on a leisurely cycling tour through the scenic back roads of the Cape Winelands, indulging in a bit of wine tasting along the way. Surrounded by the dramatic Groot Drakenstein Mountains, you will cycle past the internationally acclaimed wine estates of La Motte, Moreson, and Graham Beck.
After the bike ride there’ll be time for a refreshing swim at the hotel pool, before heading back to town for a group dinner at Rueben’s, an exquisite glass-fronted eatery with a sophisticated dining menu. Franschhoek is the culinary capital of South Africa - enjoy finding out why over tonight’s dinner!
Accommodation: Protea Hotel by Marriott, or Le Franschhoek, Cape Town
Biking: 11 miles (18 kilometers), 2-3 hours
This morning you’ll head to Stellenbosch to walk the town on a half day ‘foodie tour,’ exploring all the famous cafes, art galleries, historical sites and other delights that make this town so special. In addition to its international wine reputation, Stellenbosch is also home to curated, public art exhibitions.
During our leisurely walk you’ll get an insider’s perspective with an expert guide, savoring the handiwork of passionate food artisans, and celebrated artists in the outdoor art exhibition. Here you’ll indulge in an award-winning gin experience with light snacks, sample fine Stellenbosch craft beers with flavorful bites, enjoy local produce served with artisan bread, and sip a liquid ‘dessert’ at an innovative coffee laboratory.
We’ll return to Franschhoek, and the afternoon is yours to explore. Our last dinner together tonight will be at the Grande Provence Restaurant, situated on one of the most beautiful heritage estates in Franschhoek.
Accommodation: Protea Hotel by Marriott, or Le Franschhoek, Cape Town
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sadly, our last day is already here, so following breakfast you will be transferred to Cape Town International Airport to say farewell (“Hamba Kahle” in Zulu) to your group companions and guide. You’ll go home with amazing safari stories to tell, and undoubtedly hundreds of incredible pictures to share.
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast
Gallery
Find out more about your dream adventure in South Africa.
On the first morning of the trip, please meet us in the lobby at Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre Johannesburg O.R. Tambo Hotel at 8:15am, our designated departure point for all guests on your trip. You are welcome to book your pre-trip stay at this hotel directly or any other hotel in Johannesburg - that's up to you. Please wear comfortable clothing for the journey towards the Blyde River, and bring your daypack to carry any essentials you may need for our first day of exploration.
Your trip ends with a drop-off at Cape Town International Airport (CPT) in time for flights below.
Arrival: We recommend arriving in Johannesburg at least the day before your trip starts and staying at the Radisson Hotel & Convention Centre Johannesburg, O.R. Tambo, which offers complimentary airport shuttle services. If you do fly in on the first day of the trip, we recommend arriving in Johannesburg before 6am, to clear immigration and collect your luggage.
Departure: Flying out on the last day of the trip, we recommend departing from Cape Town after 2pm. Earlier flight times will require a separate transfer booked at your own expense.
We prefer to stay in quaint, comfortable lodges as well as getting out and amongst it all in luxury tents. The luxury tents we stay in will provide private suites with ensuites, and some with private decks and the potential of seeing game in the adjacent bush. We recommend bringing enough clothing to only have to do laundry a couple of times during your safari and while there are laundry facilities at most locations, there will be an extra cost and you’ll also need to purchase laundry detergent from the reception areas.
Our passion for exploration is rooted in a strong connection to the natural beauty of our home, New Zealand, and the drive to venture beyond its shores to discover a world different to our own.
We believe the best journeys don’t just take you places, they inspire you and ignite your spirit. Our unique and thoughtfully designed itineraries ensure you'll experience the very best of each destination.
Feel the heart and soul of each place you visit with our local people on the ground and knowledgeable guides, who take great care to ensure a truly authentic and immersive experience. This is the real deal.
We take the time to get to know you to ensure you have the very best experience on our trips. Our small group adventures are big on flexibility. No matter what your version of "active" is, we have options on each trip to suit every individual.
Traveling solo, as a pair, or as part of a group? No worries, you'll be comfortable on our trips. Every trip is personalized with care by our team so everyone feels supported and free to enjoy their unforgettable adventure.
Imagine a vacation that's fully guided, and everything is taken care of and included in the trip price — all accommodations, activities, transport on-trip, most meals, and more! Effortless and value-packed.
