South Africa Encompassed
South Africa Encompassed
$3140
Tour Overview
Embark on an unforgettable journey through South Africa with the "South Africa Encompassed" tour. This adventure takes you on a thrilling safari in Kruger National Park, where you'll search for the "Big Five" and explore the diverse ecosystems. Experience the vibrant cultures of Swaziland and Zululand, and marvel at the breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains. Encounter elephants in Addo and traverse the stunning Garden Route. Discover the untouched beauty of the Wild Coast, with its pristine beaches and Xhosa villages. Savor the flavors of Stellenbosch in the Cape Winelands, and explore the iconic city of Cape Town, including a visit to the Nelson Mandela Capture Site Museum. With comfortable accommodations and expert guides, this tour offers a perfect blend of wildlife, culture, and natural beauty, ensuring an enriching South African experience. ...more ...less
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1 : Join Johannesburg, Early Morning Drive To Mpumalanga (580 Kms; 8.5 Hrs)
Location: Mpumalanga
Accommodation Name: lodge
Meals Included: Lunch, Dinner
Departing from Johannesburg at 06:30am we head towards Mpumalanga where mountains, panoramic passes, valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests characterise the landscape. Few regions in the world can match the extraordinary beauty of the lowveld and escarpment. We enjoy the views from God's Window, before we head to our private game lodge on the border of the Greater Kruger National Park. Overnight lodge. NOTE - Driving distance (580 kms, 8.5 hrs) excludes stops for sightseeing, breakfast & lunch.NB: Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be a set meal provided by the lodge. ...more ...less
Day 2 : Kruger National Park (150 Kms; 2 Hrs + 2 X 3 Hour Game Drives)
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: lodge
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Kruger National Park is the largest game reserve in South Africa stretches north to south over approximately 500km and is home to the Big Five, as well as numerous other species of fauna and flora. The largest game reserve in South Africa boasts the world's greatest concentration of species, and has an amazing 16 different ecosystems. An exciting game drive provides us with excellent game viewing. Spot the “Big 5” (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo) and many other animals in this true African wilderness. In the late afternoon we exit the park and return to our private game lodge in the Greater Kruger area. Overnight lodge. Distance/time: 150kms, ± 2 hours + 2 x 3 hour game drives.NB: Breakfast and Dinner will be provided by the lodge; Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 3 : Kruger National Park (150 Kms; 2 Hrs + 2 X 3 Hour Game Drives)
Location: Kruger National Park
Accommodation Name: Kruger National Park chalet or permanent tent
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We stretch our legs on a short morning walk exploring the surrounding bush before we re-enter the Kruger National Park. This is Big game country, where we spend the day in search of the elusive leopard, the majestic lion and the mighty elephant. We game drive south through the reserve as your professional guides will impart their extensive knowledge of ecology, fauna and flora during our time in the bush. Optional night game drive with spotlights available (own expense). Overnight Kruger National Park chalet or permanent tent. NB: Breakfast will be provided by the lodge; Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 4 : Swaziland/Eswatini (220 Kms; 5 Hrs)
Location: Malolotja Nature Reserve
Accommodation Name: mountain chalet
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Malolotja Nature Reserve in the mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland (eSwatini) is our next attraction. Renowned for a great variety of habitats from short grassland, to thick riverine scrub, bushveld and moist forest, we explore the reserve on foot to enjoy the fantastic mountain views. Relax around a campfire dinner and stay in mountain cabins for the night. Overnight mountain chalet. NOTE - Driving distance/time (220 kms, 5 hrs) excludes 2-3 hour morning drive out of Kruger National Park, shopping stop in Malelane, Jeppes Reef border formalities & stops for meals, sightseeing etc.NB: Breakfast & Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be a set meal provided by the lodge.
Day 5 - 6 : Hluhluwe Game Reserve And Msinene River (320 Kms; 6 Hrs)
Location: Hluhluwe Game Reserve
Accommodation Name: permanent safari camp
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
We visit a craft market near Mbabane which has a range of handmade crafts and a local witchdoctor stall. We re-enter South Africa and head to our lodge on a private game reserve situated on the Msinene Nature Reserve, where our local guide will lead us on a walk through the bushveld and riverine vegetation of the Msinene River, bird watching and game tracking. Nyala, hippo and the elusive leopard are all found on the reserve. The next day we take a game drive in Hluhluwe Game Reserve, which is a safe haven for the embattled rhino. Relax in the late afternoon with a cold drink while enjoying the views over the reserve from the lodge.Overnight permanent safari camp.NOTE - Driving distance/time (320 kms, 6 hrs) excludes border formalities & stops for meals, sightseeing etc.NB: Breakfast & Dinner will be provided by the lodge; Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 7 - 8 : Drakensberg Mountains (500 Kms; 7 Hrs)
Location: Drakensberg Mountains
Accommodation Name: chalet
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Drakensberg Mountains or “uKhahlamba” - the Barrier of Spears, is a 200-kilometre-long mountainous wonderland and world heritage site. From Zululand we move further south to the base of these mountains where we overnight for two nights in quaint cottages. We will spend time walking along beautiful mountain stream paths, or just enjoying spectacular views. En-route to the Drakensberg we will visit the Nelson Mandela Capture Site Museum and pay our respects to this great man. Overnight chalet. NOTE - Driving distance/time: (500 kms; 7 hrs) excludes stops for sightseeing & lunch. The last 50km is a slow gravel road.Day 7: Breakfast will be provided by the lodge; Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.Day 8: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.
Day 9 - 10 : To Wild Coast (600 Kms; 9 Hrs)
Location: Wild Coast
Accommodation Name: twin share rooms or chalet
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
The Wild Coast remains a relatively untouched paradise with unspoilt stretches of dramatically beautiful coastline, open spaces and pristine forest areas. We stay overnight and the next day is free to explore the area, meet local villagers or relax on the beach. In 2023 - Overnight twin share rooms with 1 shared bathroom between two rooms.In 2024 - Overnight chalet. NOTE - Driving distance/time: (600 kms, 9 hrs) excludes stops for sightseeing & lunch – a long day.In 2023: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group.In 2024: (Day 9) Breakfast & Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be provided by the lodge. In 2024: (Day 10) Breakfast will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 11 : Addo Elephant National Park (500 Kms; 7.5 Hrs)
Location: Addo Elephant National Park
Accommodation Name: chalet or lodge tent
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
The Addo Elephant National Park was established in 1931 to protect the last 11 wild elephants from extermination. Today more than 350 elephants roam through the area. The park also offers excellent viewing of black rhino, Cape buffalo, lion and leopard, as well as a host of other large and small mammals and over 400 species of birds in the greater park area. Overnight chalet or lodge tent.NOTE - Driving distance/time: (500 kms, 7.5 hrs) excludes stops for sightseeing & lunch + game drives – a long day.NB: Breakfast & Dinner will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Lunch will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 12 - 13 : The Garden Route - Tsitsikamma (320 Kms; 4.5 Hrs)
Location: Tsitsikamma
Accommodation Name: guesthouse/hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Today we begin exploring the famous Garden Route, which is the area situated between the forests of the Tsitsikamma and the winelands of the Western Cape. We will take a day trip to the Storms River mouth where there are walks up the gorge and along the rocky coast. The Tsitsikamma National Park incorporates 80km of spectacular sea and landscapes; a remote mountainous region with secluded valleys, coastal forests with deep river gorges leading down to the sea. Sample seafood at one of the great local restaurants (own expense). Please note on day 13 breakfast is included (lunch and dinner at own expense). Overnight: guesthouse/ hotel.NOTE - Driving distance/time: (320 kms, 4.5 hrs) excludes stops for sightseeing.Day 12: Breakfast & Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).Day 13: Breakfast will be provided by the guesthouse/hotel; Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 14 : The Garden Route - Hermanus (450 Kms, 6.5 Hrs)
Location: Hermanus
Accommodation Name: guesthouse/hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch
Hermanus offers some of the best land based whale watching in the world. From June to November, Southern Right whales come up from the southern oceans to calve and mate in the shallow waters around the Cape. In whale season we will take a walk along this beautiful coastline. In the summer months we will explore the flowering fynbos in Fernkloof Nature Reserve. Enjoy the evening meal out at a local restaurant (own expense). Overnight guesthouse/hotel.NOTE - Driving distance/time: (450 kms, 6.5 hrs) excludes stops for sightseeing & lunch.NB: Breakfast will be provided by the guesthouse/hotel; Lunch will be provided by the tour leaders with the help of the group; Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 15 - 16 : To Cape Town Via Stellenbosch (190 Kms, 3.5 Hrs On Day 15 + 150 Kms On Day 16)
Location: Cape Town
Accommodation Name: hotel
Meals Included: Breakfast
Cape Town is one of the most picturesque cities in the world, with the majestic Table Mountain providing its central focus. On our way into the beautiful city of Cape Town, we visit Stellenbosch, South Africa’s renowned wine region, for wine tasting (own expense) and a cellar tour. The “mother city” has many attractions; we will visit Cape Point, the harbour at Hout Bay, enjoy the famous beaches and the V&A Waterfront. Optional visit to Robben Island (own expense). We sample the local fare at a variety of local restaurants (own expense). Overnight hotel.NOTE - Driving distance/time: (190 kms, 3.5 hrs) excludes stops for sightseeing + 150 kms full day Cape Peninsular tour on day 16.NB: Breakfast will be provided by the hotel; Lunch & Dinner will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
Day 17 : Ascend Table Mountain, Trip Concludes In Cape Town
Location: Cape Town
Meals Included: Breakfast
In the morning we climb Table Mountain, offering panoramic views over Cape Town reaching out into the bay and Robben Island. Having explored the highlights of the Rainbow Nation we take a last look at Cape Town and catch up on last minute curio shopping in the afternoon, before your tour ends at 18:00.NB: Breakfast will be provided by the hotel; Lunch will be at your own expense (meal at a local restaurant).
What's Included
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Accommodation
16 nights hotel/lodge/guesthouse -
Game drives, day walks and excursions
Game drives, day walks and excursions as listed in the itinerary are included.
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English speaking local guide
An English speaking local guide is included in the tour.
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National park fees and site entrance fees
National park fees and site entrance fees as listed in the itinerary are included.
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Private transport
Private transport in a minibus or safari truck is included.
What's Not Included
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Optional activities
Optional activities are not included in the tour price.
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Meals not mentioned in the itinerary
Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks are not included.
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Items of a personal nature
Items of a personal nature such as laundry, phone calls, and tips are not included.
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Visas
Visas are not included in the tour price.
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Airport and departure taxes
Airport and departure taxes are not included.
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International flights and taxes
International flights and taxes are not included.
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Travel Insurance
Travel insurance is compulsory but not included in the tour price.
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Airport arrival and departure transfers
Airport arrival and departure transfers are not included.
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Tips & gratuities
Tips and gratuities are not included in the tour price.
Accommodation
Enjoy 16 nights in comfortable hotels, lodges, and guesthouses on a twinshare basis, with 14 nights offering ensuite facilities and 2 nights with shared bathrooms. Meals are prepared by tour leaders, and room requests for double beds can be made upon arrival, though availability is not guaranteed.
What You Carry
In your daypack you will need to carry extra warm clothing (it can be very cold on early morning activities), a rainjacket, water bottle, camera gear, valuables and personal items such as sunscreen, lip balm etc.
Grading
Although there is no commitment to extended walking on this journey we nonetheless want to keep the ‘accent on the active’. We therefore advise that any physical training you complete before undertaking the trip will be to good effect. There is no shortage of advantages of packing as much into your time in South Africa as possible. The fitter you are the more this will enhance your experience. ...more ...less
Wildlife
The wilderness areas of Africa are populated by large numbers of wild and potentially dangerous animals. The trip aims to view these animals in their natural habitat, uncontrolled by fences. Your experienced guides will make every effort to ensure the safety of the group at all times. Please be aware that all safari travel, including vehicle safaris in the proximity of wild animals is never entirely without risk. By travelling into wild areas in search of wild animals, all participants accept that they are choosing an adventure that includes an element of risk and this is an inherent aspect of the enjoyment of this style of travel. ...more ...less
Mode of Transport
Travel in private transport using a minibus or safari truck, ensuring a comfortable journey throughout the tour. The itinerary includes long drives, game drives, and scenic routes, providing a comprehensive exploration of South Africa's diverse landscapes and wildlife.
Check out our Q&As
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What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?
You will be staying in comfortable and basic hotels, lodges, and guesthouses on a twinshare basis. There are 14 nights with ensuite facilities and 2 nights with shared bathroom facilities. Meals will be prepared by the tour leaders.
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Are meals included in the tour package?
The tour includes 16 breakfasts, 12 lunches, and 11 dinners. Meals not mentioned in the itinerary are not included.
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What kind of wildlife can I expect to see on this tour?
You will have the opportunity to see the 'Big Five' (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo) in Kruger National Park, as well as elephants in Addo Elephant National Park. The tour also includes visits to other reserves where you might encounter hippos, nyala, and a variety of bird species. ...more ...less
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What activities are included in the tour itinerary?
The tour includes game drives, day walks, and excursions as listed in the itinerary. There are also optional activities available at your own expense.
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Is there any physical activity involved in the tour?
Yes, the tour includes walking activities, such as exploring the bush in Kruger National Park, walking through the Drakensberg Mountains, and exploring the Wild Coast. While there is no commitment to extended walking, being physically fit will enhance your experience.
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What should I carry in my daypack during the tour?
You should carry extra warm clothing, a rainjacket, a water bottle, camera gear, valuables, and personal items such as sunscreen and lip balm in your daypack.
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Are there any risks associated with the wildlife tours?
Yes, the wilderness areas of Africa are populated by large numbers of wild and potentially dangerous animals. While your experienced guides will make every effort to ensure safety, all safari travel includes an element of risk as you will be viewing animals in their natural habitat.
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
We have offices on three continents which means your travelling companions will be just that – international and wonderfully eclectic. Part of small group travel means that although travellers come from various locations and backgrounds, you will be travelling with like-minded companions who, like you, are keen to share the experience and forge lifelong friendships.
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What about environmental impact?
We believe that adventure travel revolves around establishing a strong relationship with the people and environments in which we operate. Our responsible travel policies have been carefully developed to ensure that we minimise the impact of our presence and help to protect the regions we visit while contributing positively to the local community.
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What should I pack?
Your pre-departure documents include a detailed packing list with items that you need to bring. While most of the equipment for daily activities is included in your tour cost, some items like helmets and hiking boots are best brought from home. The pre-departure documents also include information on layering and recommended brands for various items to ensure you are fully prepared for your trip.
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Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?
Yes. World Expeditions does not require single travellers to pay a surcharge for travelling alone on the vast majority of our trips. Our holidays are primarily on a twin share basis, so if you are joining the group as a solo traveller, we will match you with someone of your own gender. The choice is yours however; if you prefer not to share, we do offer single supplements for private occupancy.
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Are tips included in my trip price?
Tips are not included in the tour cost. Tipping is a personal thing, do not worry about how much, or when, to tip. Tipping guidelines are provided for certain destinations in our pre departure information upon booking, however the best advice will be provided by your tour leader.
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Am I suited to small-group travel?
We recognise that many of our travellers have not been on a ‘group trip’ before. Yet what our departures provide is both structure and flexibility, allowing you plenty of freedom within the framework of the itinerary. You’ll find that with our maximum group size at 16, you’ll travel in a minimal impact style with a great group of like-minded travellers.
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Can you advise which vaccinations are recommended?
While our pre-departure kit provides information on vaccinations, we suggest that you consult your doctor, local government inoculation centre or a travel medical specialist in order to get the most current advice regarding vaccination requirements.
Reviews from travellers on this tour
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Jan 31, 2026 - Feb 16, 2026Book with Confidence
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Transfer as credit to Future Tours
World Expeditions allows you to transfer existing payments to a future tour to avoid cancellation fees if you can't travel and inform world expeditions, 70 days before departure.
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Low Deposit
World Expeditions requires a minimum deposit of 400 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 70 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of world expeditions charges.
Up to 70 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 69 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 35 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
South Africa Encompassed
17 Days Starting in Johannesburg, South Africa and ending in Cape Town, South Africa
Visiting: Mpumalanga, Kruger National Park, Malolotja Nature Reserve, Hluhluwe Game Reserve, Hluhluwe–iMfolozi Park, Drakensberg Mountains, Drakensberg Mountain Retreat, Wild Coast, Addo Elephant National Park, Tsitsikamma, Hermanus, Cape Town ...more ...less
Tour operator:
Tour code:
SAR
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Group size:
4 - 12
Age range:
18-80