South African Explorer
20 Days Starting in Johannesburg, South Africa and ending in Cape Town, South Africa
Visiting: Johannesburg, Mpumalanga, Kruger National Park, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Swaziland, Zululand, Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, Drakensberg, Lesotho, Cradock, Addo Elephant National Park, Tsitsikamma, Oudtshoorn, Cape Town
Tour operator:
Tour code:
IndTur163
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
1 - 22
Tour operated in:
EnglishTrip Styles:
Interests:
Activities:
Tour Overview
Embark on the South African Explorer tour and immerse yourself in the diverse landscapes and rich cultures of South Africa. Begin your journey with a thrilling safari in Kruger National Park, home to Africa's iconic wildlife. Experience the traditions of the Kingdom of Swaziland and enjoy a scenic horseback expedition in the picturesque landscapes of Lesotho. Witness the majestic elephants in Addo Elephant National Park and marvel at the stunning vistas during a Cape Point tour. This 19-night adventure includes superior hotel accommodations, daily breakfast, select meals, and guided tours, ensuring a memorable and comprehensive exploration of South Africa.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Johannesburg (Arrival)
Location: Johannesburg
Accommodation Name: hotel
On arrival in Johannesburg today you will be met by our company representative and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is free for you to spend at leisure. This evening you will meet your guide and the rest of the group for your introductory tour briefing at 18h00.
Overnight in Johannesburg
Day 2: Johannesburg – Mpumalanga (B/-/-)
Location: Mpumalanga
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Departing from Johannesburg today you will travel east towards Mpumalanga. The landscape here is characterized by mountains, panoramic passes, valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests. You will spend the night in the town of Graskop, a small forestry town situated on the Drakensberg Escarpment at the start of the Panorama route and the gateway to the Kruger National Park.
Overnight in Graskop
Day 3: Mpumalanga - Kruger National Park (B/-/-)
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning your day begins with a scenic drive along the Panorama Route, arguably one of the most beautiful places in South Africa. The most spectacular stretch is along the Blyde River Canyon, the 3rd largest canyon in the world that is filled with lush vegetation and wildlife. You will make a stop at Bourkes Luck Potholes to view some spectacular rock formations formed eons ago by erosion. In the afternoon, you will travel into Kruger National Park. You will spend two nights inside the park and will have the chance to encounter the wildlife of Africa on exciting morning and afternoon game drives in our tour vehicle.
Overnight in Kruger National Park area
Day 4: Kruger National Park (B/-/-)
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will have the chance to encounter the wildlife of Africa on exciting morning and afternoon game drives in our tour vehicle in search of some of Africas finest wildlife. Should you wish to partake on a game drive in an open game-viewer vehicle, these are available at an additional expense (please note that these must be pre-booked).
Overnight in Kruger National Park area
Day 5: Kruger National Park - Kingdom Of Swaziland (B/-/-)
Location: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will cross the border into the mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland, led by King Mswati III, and one of 3 monarchies in Africa. You will explore the traditions and discover the culture of which the Swazis are so proud. You will spend the next two nights in the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Swazilands pioneer conservation area situated in the “Valley of Heaven”. Apart from abundant bird life, there are several animal species to be seen including hippo, giraffe, zebra, and a variety of antelope, which you may spot on a guided walk in the afternoon.
Overnight in Swaziland
Day 6: Kingdom Of Swaziland (B/L/-)
Location: Swaziland
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today you will visit the Umphakatsi Chiefs homestead for an interactive experience where you will get to try your hand at grinding maize and plaiting mountain grass or join the children in Swazi song and dance. An offering of a taste of local food is made but forget about your cutlery and try it the Swazi way… with your hands!
Overnight in Swaziland
Day 7: Kingdom Of Swaziland – Zululand (B/-/-)
Location: Zululand
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Start your morning with a visit to a local craft market before re-entering South Africa via Northern Kwa Zulu Natal. You will arrive at the lodge by late afternoon. Enjoy the rest of the day at leisure.
Overnight in Zululand
Day 8: Zululand (B/-/-)
Location: Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will explore the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve during a game drive in the tour vehicle. Game drives are available in an open game-viewer vehicle at an additional expense (please note that these must be pre-booked). Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is the oldest game reserve in Africa and is a haven to both the endangered black and white rhino. In the afternoon you will travel to South Africas first World Heritage Site, The iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Here you will have a boar cruise on the St. Lucia estuary, getting close to hippos and crocodiles.
Overnight in Zululand
Day 9: Zululand - Drakensberg (B/-/D)
Location: Drakensberg
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Moving further inland, you will spend the next two nights in the Northern Drakensberg, which is an area known for its magnificent scenery of towering mountains, indigenous forests, and cool berg streams. At 3,482 metres in height, The Drakensberg, known in Zulu as uKhahlamba or the “Barrier of Spears”, is South Africas highest mountain range, stretching its rugged form roughly 1,000 km from south-west to north-east. Time will be spent exploring this picturesque World Heritage Site on guided walks.
Overnight in Drakensberg
Day 10: Drakensberg (B/L/D)
Location: Drakensberg
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today will be spent exploring this scenic area on guided walks and have leisure time if you wish to rest.
Overnight in Drakensberg
Day 11: Drakensberg – Lesotho (B/L/-)
Location: Lesotho
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today you will cross the border into the Kingdom of Lesotho, the southernmost landlocked country in the world, rich in natural beauty, flora, fauna and cultural heritage. Malealea is situated in a remote part of Western Lesotho that is breath-taking in its beauty. Here you will have the chance to experience traditional Basotho life, a nation with solid traditions, beliefs and customs.
Overnight in Lesotho
Day 12: Lesotho (B/-/-)
Location: Lesotho
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
No visit to Lesotho would be complete without a pony trek! Today you can enjoy a ride on the transport of choice for most Basotho, as these sturdy animals handle the narrow trails better than any 4x4 can!
Overnight in Lesotho
Day 13: Lesotho – Cradock (B/-/-)
Location: Cradock
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning you will leave the beauty of Lesotho behind you and drive to the historical Karoo town of Cradock. Founded in 1814 as a frontier stronghold, the town is an important agricultural centre that boasts traditional Karoo hospitality. Best known for its natural sulphur spring, Cradock is a place of literary legends, and the original part of the town is graced with some fine buildings.
Overnight in Cradock
Day 14: Cradock - Addo Elephant National Park (B/-/-)
Location: Addo Elephant National Park
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you will travel to Addo Elephant National Park, a conservation success story that offers a unique wildlife habitat for elephants and the remaining population of the flightless dung beetle. Spend the afternoon on a game drive in your tour vehicle in search of elephant, black rhino, lion, buffalo, and leopard. Game drives are available in an open game-viewer vehicle at an additional expense (please note that these must be pre-booked). An evening spent at the floodlit waterhole offers the opportunity to watch the nocturnal animals and listen to their calls.
Overnight in Addo Elephant National Park area
Day 15: Addo Elephant National Park – Tsitsikamma (B/-/-)
Location: Tsitsikamma
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning after breakfast, your journey will take you to a region of startling beauty along South Africas southern coastline, known as the Garden Route. You will spend two nights in the Storms River Village, at the heart of the Tsitsikamma Forest.
Overnight in Tsitsikamma
Day 16: Tsitsikamma (B/-/-)
Location: Tsitsikamma
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you can take a leisurely hike along one of the short trails through the forest, which allows you to explore the coastal bush and rocky shoreline.
Overnight in Tsitsikamma
Day 17: Tsitsikamma – Oudtshoorn (B/-/-)
Location: Oudtshoorn
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
After departing Tsitsikamma today you will visit ‘The Heads in Knysna, a town nestled on a tranquil lagoon, and then travel over the Outeniqua Mountains into the Little Karoo to the town of Oudtshoorn. On arrival, you can take a trip to the famous Cango Caves, with their impressive ancient stalagmites and stalactites, before spending the night in the ostrich capital of the world!
Overnight in Oudtshoorn
Day 18: Oudtshoorn - Cape Town (B/-/-)
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
En-route to Cape Town today you will visit the pretty university town of Stellenbosch for wine tasting and a cellar tour. Once in Cape Town the afternoon is free for you to spend at leisure; enjoy a sundowner at one of the fabulous beaches or indulge in some last-minute shopping at the V&A Waterfront.
Overnight in Cape Town
Day 19: Cape Town (B/-/-)
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Today you can explore the many attractions the ‘Mother City has to offer on our Cape Point tour. You will depart Cape Town and travel along the Atlantic seaboard with its gorgeous white beaches and rugged mountains to Hout Bay. If time permits, you have the option of taking a half hour boat trip to Duiker Island to see a Cape Fur Seal colony. If open, you will continue on Chapmans Peak Drive, renowned as one of the most stunning roadways in the world, and then visit the Cape Point Nature Reserve, the tip of the Cape Peninsula that has captivated travellers for centuries with its dramatic scenery and fascinating history. The return journey to Cape Town takes you along False Bay coast with the option of visiting the colony of rare African Penguins at Boulders Beach. You will then pass through the naval village of Simons Town, Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay and Muizenberg and visit the world-famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens before arriving back at your hotel.
Overnight in Cape Town
Day 20: Cape Town (Departure) (B/-/-)
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Spend your final day at leisure before your arranged transfer to the airport for your flight back home.
What's Included
-
19 nights accommodation
19 nights accommodation on a twin sharing basis at a listed Superior hotel or similar.
-
Daily breakfast
Daily breakfast is included.
-
03 lunches
03 lunches are included.
-
02 dinners
02 dinners are included.
-
Arrival and departure transfers
Arrival and departure transfers are included.
-
All transport in fully kitted vehicle
All transport in a fully kitted vehicle is included.
-
Transportation as per the itinerary
Transportation as per the itinerary is included.
-
Experienced, English-speaking guides
Services of experienced, English-speaking guides are included.
-
Sightseeing and entrance fees
Sightseeing and entrance fees as per the itinerary are included.
-
Game drives
Game drives as per the itinerary are included.
What's Not Included
-
Personal expenses, tips, and gratuities
Items of personal nature, tips, and gratuities are not included.
-
Travel insurance
Travel insurance is not included.
-
Optional tours
Optional tours are not included.
-
International airfare
International airfare for land-only passengers is not included.
-
Transfers for land-only passengers
Arrival and departure transfers for land-only passengers are not included.
-
Visa fees
Visa fees, if applicable, are not included.
-
Unmentioned items
Items not mentioned as included are not included.
Mode of Transport
All transport is provided in a fully kitted vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and seamless travel experience as per the itinerary.
Accommodation
Enjoy 19 nights of accommodation on a twin sharing basis at listed Superior hotels or similar, ensuring comfort and convenience throughout your journey.
Check out our Q&As
-
What kind of wildlife can I expect to see during the Kruger National Park safari?
During the Kruger National Park safari, you can expect to see some of Africa's finest wildlife, including the Big Five: lions, elephants, leopards, rhinos, and buffaloes. The park is also home to a variety of other animals and bird species.
-
What activities are included during the visit to the Kingdom of Swaziland?
In the Kingdom of Swaziland, you will explore the traditions and culture of the Swazi people, visit the Umphakatsi Chiefs homestead for an interactive experience, and have the opportunity to spot wildlife such as hippos, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species during a guided walk.
-
What can I expect during the visit to the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve?
During the visit to the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, you will go on a game drive in the tour vehicle to explore the reserve, which is known for its population of endangered black and white rhinos. You can also opt for a game drive in an open game-viewer vehicle at an additional expense.
-
What is the highlight of the visit to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park?
The highlight of the visit to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a boat cruise on the St. Lucia estuary, where you can get close to hippos and crocodiles.
-
What activities are planned in the Drakensberg region?
In the Drakensberg region, you will explore the picturesque World Heritage Site on guided walks, taking in the magnificent scenery of towering mountains, indigenous forests, and cool berg streams.
-
What unique experience is offered in Lesotho?
In Lesotho, you will have the unique experience of a pony trek, riding on the transport of choice for most Basotho, as these sturdy animals handle the narrow trails better than any 4x4 can.
-
What can I expect during the visit to Addo Elephant National Park?
During the visit to Addo Elephant National Park, you will go on a game drive in your tour vehicle to search for elephants, black rhinos, lions, buffaloes, and leopards. You can also opt for a game drive in an open game-viewer vehicle at an additional expense. An evening spent at the floodlit waterhole offers the opportunity to watch nocturnal animals and listen to their calls.
-
What activities are included in the Tsitsikamma Forest?
In the Tsitsikamma Forest, you can take a leisurely hike along one of the short trails through the forest, allowing you to explore the coastal bush and rocky shoreline.
-
What is included in the Cape Point tour in Cape Town?
The Cape Point tour in Cape Town includes traveling along the Atlantic seaboard with its gorgeous white beaches and rugged mountains to Hout Bay, with an optional boat trip to Duiker Island to see a Cape Fur Seal colony. You will visit the Cape Point Nature Reserve, the colony of rare African Penguins at Boulders Beach, and the world-famous Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. The return journey takes you along False Bay coast, passing through the naval village of Simons Town, Fish Hoek, Kalk Bay, and Muizenberg.
-
Can I join the tour once it has departed?
Yes, but only in case it was previously agreed by both sides and arranged by us.
-
What documents will I receive before I travel?
Our e-document package includes all local contact details, daily itinerary, airline e-ticket information, service vouchers, and travel tips which should be everything you require to go on your trip.
-
If I need one, who is responsible to obtain my visa?
You are responsible for obtaining the proper travel documents for the destinations on your itinerary, including having a passport that is valid for at least 6 months before the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the Visa section in the Know Before You Go document for the countries you will be visiting.
-
Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
No, not as standard. Solo travellers can book and occupy their own room for a supplement.
-
How long has the tour company been trading?
We have been organizing unforgettable trips since 2001.
-
Can I arrange flights via Indus Travels, too?
In some cases, yes. Indus Travels can provide flights from/to selected departure points in the USA. If you would like a quote inclusive of flights, please let us know and we'll be happy to check the details for you!
-
Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes.
-
What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
Changes to an existing reservation up to the Final Payment Date, whatever the cause, will incur a $100 per person amendment fee, potential loss of any supplier fees (such as non-refundable event tickets, park permits, and sea cruise reservations) plus any costs for replacement services. On/ after the Final Payment Date, the $100 change fee is no longer valid, instead cancellations terms apply.
Reviews of this operator
1 Select your preferred date
Monday - Saturday
Mar 10, 2025 - Mar 29, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Jun 28, 2025 - Jul 17, 2025Saturday - Thursday
Aug 02, 2025 - Aug 21, 2025Monday - Saturday
Sep 01, 2025 - Sep 20, 2025Monday - Saturday
Oct 20, 2025 - Nov 08, 2025Monday - Saturday
Nov 17, 2025 - Dec 06, 2025Book with Confidence
-
Low Deposit
Indus Travels requires a minimum deposit of 25% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 45 days before departure.
-
Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of indus travels charges.
Up to 75 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 74 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.