Kruger, eSwatini & Lesotho
14 Days Starting in Johannesburg, South Africa and ending in Gqeberha, South Africa
Visiting: Kruger National Park, Panorama Route, Ezulwini Valley, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, eSwatini, Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, KwaZulu-Natal, Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, Maseru, Semonkong, Graaff Reinet, Gqeberha, Addo Elephant National Park
Tour operator:
Tour code:
61
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 20
Age range:
8-85
Special diets catered:
Request dietary needs
Trip Styles:
Interests:
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable adventure through the heart of Southern Africa with the "Kruger, eSwatini & Lesotho" tour. This safari journey takes you from the bustling city of Johannesburg to the breathtaking landscapes of Kruger National Park, where you'll experience thrilling game drives. Traverse the stunning Panorama Route, marvel at the majestic Drakensberg mountains, and explore the cultural richness of eSwatini. Discover the wildlife haven of Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve and enjoy a serene boat trip on the St. Lucia estuary. In Lesotho, hike through the dramatic mountain scenery and immerse yourself in the local culture. Travel in comfort aboard a 25-seat expedition vehicle and 4x4 safari jeeps, with accommodations ranging from camping to 4-star lodges. This tour promises a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and adventure, offering an authentic taste of Africa's diverse landscapes and vibrant heritage.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Johannesburg To Kruger National Park
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: Nkambeni Reserve
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Leaving the city of Johannesburg behind us we make our way east through the coalfields of Mpumalanga. Our journey today follows in the footsteps of the old trade - routes to the Lowveld and the Kruger National Park. This afternoon there will enjoy a Sundowner drive through the reserve. Route: Johannesburg to Kruger National Park Included Highlight: Sundowner Drive Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions Facilities - Accommodated: Two per Permanent tent with En-suite Bathroom
Day 2 : Kruger Park Safari
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: Nkambeni Reserve
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The entirety of today is spent on safari inside the Kruger National Park. We explore the massive reserve using a safari vehicle with open sides; this offers a wonderful vantage point from which to spot animals. A voluntary sunset game drive is also available at dusk. Route: Kruger National Park Included Highlight: Kruger National Park 4x4 game drive Optional Activity: Sunset Drive (there is a concession fee applicable) Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions Facilities - Accommodated: Two per Permanent tent with En-suite Bathroom
Day 3 : Panorama Route
Location: Panorama Route
Accommodation Name: Nkambeni Reserve
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we travel the famed Panorama Route. This is a stunningly beautiful path along the escarpment, and features several famous landmarks. These include God’s Window, the Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Blyde River Canyon, and the Three Rondavels, all of which we visit on our excursion. Included Highlight: Panorama Route - Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions Facilities - Accommodated: Two per Permanent tent with En-suite Bathroo
Day 4 : To Eswatini (Formerly Swaziland)
Location: Ezulwini Valley
Accommodation Name: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary or Hlane Royal National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We start the day early with some coffee and traditional rusks before setting off through Kruger on our way to Eswatini. Our truck offers an excellent platform for game viewing as we make our way south. We exit the southern end of the park and travel the short distance to Eswatini border, our route this afternoon winds through the mountains and forests of this landlocked kingdom. Our destination for today is the Ezulwini Valley just south of the capital Mbabane. Route: Kruger National Park to eSwatini (formerly Swaziland) Included Highlight: Morning game drive in Kruger National Park Facilities - Camping: Campsite with shared ablutions Facilities - Accommodated: Two per Permanent tent with En-suite Bathroom
Day 5 : Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Location: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Accommodation Name: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary or Hlane Royal National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we explore the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. This reserve, although not large, offers a wonderful opportunity to experience an authentic walking safari, as there is not a high amount of dangerous animals found here. The walk will be led by a guide who will provide insight into the history and geography of the reserve. Later on, there are a few optional activities on offer, including hiking, mountain biking, and a tour through the Esijeni community– which involves getting a chance to actively partake in traditional daily activities.
Day 6 : Eswatini To St Lucia
Location: eSwatini
Accommodation Name: Shonalanga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we leave the Kingdom of eSwatini and re-enter South Africa. We'll continue into Zululand, once the realm of King Shaka who is unknown for united the Zulu clans.
Day 7 : Hluhluwe-Umfolozi /Isimangaliso
Location: Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve
Accommodation Name: Shonalanga
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is spent on safari in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve. Here we are on the lookout for a variety of game species, including the endangered rhinoceros, as well as the other members of the Big 5. In the afternoon, we enjoy a boating safari on the St. Lucia estuary.
Day 8 : Kwazulu Natal
Location: KwaZulu-Natal
Accommodation Name: Monks Cowl
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Running the length of the Kwazulu - Natal province, the Ukuhlamba Drakensberg Park is a UNESCO recognised world heritage site. Whether you go by the Zulu name uKhahlamba, meaning 'barrier of spears', or the Afrikaans name Drakensberge, meaning 'dragon mountains', these towering mountains will be our backdrop for the next two nights. On our way we make a stop to view the scenic Howick Falls and a visit to the nearby site that marked the capture of South Africa’s most famous man, Nelson Mandela.
Day 9 : Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
Location: Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park
Accommodation Name: Monks Cowl
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today is spent hiking and exploring the mountains of the Drakensberg. With so much to see and do here, we offer several different trail options to guests, depending on the pace and type of activity that you may prefer. One of the highlights in the region is seeing the San rock art, the famous ancient paintings that have been preserved in this region.
Day 10 : Drakensberg
Location: Maseru
Accommodation Name: Semonkong Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Our journey today begins with a mountain pass as our route winds its way through the magnificent hills and mountains before we enter Lesotho in the afternoon, we pass the capital city of Maseru as continue the climb to our base high amongst the mountain peaks.
Day 11 : Lesotho
Location: Semonkong
Accommodation Name: Semonkong Lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The clean air of the mountains accompanies us this morning as we explore the surrounding area offers a unique and adventurous landscape to explore on foot and we will set out on the trail which is a couple of hours.
Day 12 : To South Africa - Graaff Reinet
Location: Graaff Reinet
Accommodation Name: Profcon Resort
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Returning to South Africa, we descend the mountains and take aim across the Great Karoo. The semi-arid Karoo represents the heartland of rural South Africa and presents a stark contrast to the mountains we leave behind. Our overnight stop is set in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, the fourth oldest town in the country. We cross the mighty Orange (Gariep) River today as we journey through the vast countryside of the Karoo. This evening you will have the opportunity to join a sundowner excursion to the Valley of Desolation. This unique valley offers a panoramic view over the town and the wide open plains stretching out below. Kindly note that during the winter months, this activity will become a Sunrise excursion to the Valley of Desolation the following morning.
Day 13 : Gqeberha (Gateway To Addo Elephant Park)
Location: Gqeberha
Accommodation Name: Gqeberha Guesthouse
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Setting course for the coast once again, we pass through the open plains of the Karoo and head to the famous Addo Elephant National Park where we will enjoy a half day game drive in the truck, in search of the famous elephants that call Addo home. Our overnight accommodation is in the heart of Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth).
Day 14 : Port Elizabeth To Addo Elephant National Park
Location: Addo Elephant National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today your tour will come to an end after breakfast in Gqeberha.
What's Included
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Accommodation
13 nights accommodation, either camping or lodges/hotels & camps (supplement applies).
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Transport
All transport in a 25-seat expedition vehicle.
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Included Highlights
All 'included highlights' as mentioned in the itinerary.
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Crew
3 truck crew (driver/guide plus assistant).
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Local Guides
Local guides for sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary.
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Meals
Meals: 13 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 13 dinners.
What's Not Included
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International Flights
International flights are not included (available on request).
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Visa Fees
Visa fees if required are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel Insurance is compulsory and not included (available on request).
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Single Room Supplements
Single room supplements are chargeable if a same-sex room share is not available.
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Accommodated Hotel Upgrade
'Accommodated hotel upgrade' (hotels/lodges/permanent camps instead of camping) is not included.
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Optional Activities
Optional activities are not included.
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Entrance Fees
Entrance fees and activities not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Meals Not Indicated
Meals not indicated in the itinerary are not included.
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Personal Expenses
Drinks, snacks, tips, and other personal expenses (e.
g.
laundry) are not included. -
Other Items
Any other items not mentioned above are not included.
Mode of Transport
Travel in style with a 25-seat overland expedition vehicle and 4x4 safari jeeps, ensuring a comfortable and adventurous journey through diverse landscapes and wildlife reserves.
Accommodation
Experience a blend of comfort and adventure with accommodations ranging from 2 to 4-star hotels, lodges, and camping options. Enjoy 13 nights of either camping or staying in lodges/hotels, with the option for an upgrade to permanent camps.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of vehicle is used for transportation during the tour?
The tour uses a 25-seat overland expedition vehicle and 4x4 safari jeeps for transportation, ensuring a comfortable and adventurous journey through diverse landscapes and wildlife reserves.
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What kind of accommodations are provided on this tour?
Accommodations range from 2 to 4-star hotels, lodges, and camping options. The tour includes 13 nights of either camping or staying in lodges/hotels, with an option to upgrade to permanent camps.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
Yes, the tour includes 13 breakfasts, 14 lunches, and 13 dinners.
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Is there an option for a single room during the tour?
Single room supplements are available but chargeable if a same-sex room share is not available.
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What activities are included in the Kruger National Park visit?
The visit to Kruger National Park includes a 4x4 game drive and an optional sunset drive, which requires a concession fee.
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What is the highlight of the visit to the Panorama Route?
The Panorama Route visit includes stops at famous landmarks such as God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon, and the Three Rondavels.
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What can I expect during the visit to the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary?
At Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, you can experience an authentic walking safari led by a guide, with optional activities like hiking, mountain biking, and a cultural tour through the Esijeni community.
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What wildlife can be seen in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve?
In the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, you can look out for a variety of game species, including the endangered rhinoceros and other members of the Big 5.
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What is the significance of the Drakensberg mountains on this tour?
The Drakensberg mountains, also known as uKhahlamba or 'barrier of spears', are a UNESCO World Heritage site and provide a stunning backdrop for hiking and exploring, with highlights such as San rock art.
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What is the focus of the visit to Lesotho?
The visit to Lesotho includes exploring the unique and adventurous landscape on foot, with a morning waterfall hike as a highlight.
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Is travel insurance compulsory?
Yes! Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
You are always able to change your travel date. However, some charges may apply depending on how long before your departure you make the change. Our flexible booking conditions and reduced charges will apply if you are changing date because of a Covid-19 reason or because your government is advising against travel to your destination. Please check our detailed booking conditions for full details.
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When is my balance payment due?
60 days prior to departure
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
On most of our group tours, solo travellers may choose to form a temporary 'tour bubble' and share a room with another traveller of the same sex in the group. If a room share is not available then a single room supplement may be payable, with the costs for these kept as low as possible. We have also removed compulsory single supplements from many of our tours, and are reducing the cost by 50% on s
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Can I transfer my booking to someone else?
Customers may transfer their booking or any Credit on File to another person who satisfies all the relevant conditions to the tour, provided that we are notified not less than 7 days before departure, and the transferee agrees to these booking conditions and all other terms of the contract between us. The Client and new booker are jointly and severally responsible for any outstanding payments and a transfer administration fee of GBP50 / USD75 / CAD100 / AUD100 / NZD100 / EUR75 / ZAR1000 / INR5000 or GBP100 / USD150 / CAD200 / AUD200 / NZD200 / EUR150 / ZAR2000 / INR10,000 if the transfer is made less than 60 days before departure. Important Note: Certain arrangements may not be amended or transferred after they have been confirmed (for example flight tickets, Gorilla Permits) and any alteration could incur a cancellation and rebooking charge of up to 100% of that part of the arrangements.
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Nov 03, 2024 - Nov 16, 2024Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
Encounters Travel allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform encounters travel, 60 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
Encounters Travel requires a minimum deposit of 150 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of encounters travel charges.
Up to 61 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 35% of booking price.
At 41 days before tour starts: Forfeit 70% of booking price.
At 27 days before tour starts: Forfeit 90% of booking price.
At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.