AMAZING WILDLIFE ENCOUNTERS
South Africa Eco Explorer
- Information
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- Brochure & More Info
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What's included
- Accommodation based on twin share room
- Expert local guides
- Meals as per the itinerary
- Observation and participation in included activities
- Small group tour
- Wildlife safari with game drives
- Airport transfers
- Any items or services not specified in the itinerary
- Gratuities for guides and drivers
- International flights from Australia
- Meals, unless expressly states
- Medical and emergency insurance
- Optional tours and activities
- Personal expenses
- Visa handling fees
Tour overview
South Africa is brimming with spectacular scenery, abundant wildlife and diverse cultures, and it’s all capped off with an invigorating climate. These qualities make it an adventure destination you won’t want to miss!
It might be hard to believe that it’s a country virtually the size of Europe. Over 3000 kilometres of unspoiled coastline, boasting climatic differences from blistering hot deserts to frosty mountain peaks, and varied cultures from the original Bushman to very modern Western ways.
This small group tour visits the highlights, but leaves the beaten track to explore the great outdoors and visit a variety of African eco-systems. Starting in January 2022, the itinerary will include highlights such as a wildlife boat cruise in St Lucia, a game drive in Hluhluwe Imfolozi National Park, a day in Addo Elephant Park and a visit to the southernmost point of the continent – Cape Agulhas.
The tour is enjoyed by those with a flexible attitude and adventurous mentality, because it really is a once-in-a-lifetime kind of opportunity!
Special features
- See the best of South Africa on a short, value-packed tour.
- Loads of inclusions, with many meals, sightseeing and wildlife viewing opportunities.
- Expert local guides will look after you and proudly share their Africa with you!
Included highlights:
- Open vehicle game drive
- Game reserves/national parks
- Kruger National Park
- Zululand Game Reserve
- Drakensberg Mountains
- eSwatini, formerly Swaziland Kingdom
- Cape wine farm and wine tasting
- African culture
- Garden Route
- Coastal hike
- Table Mountain hike
- Unspoiled beaches
- DAY 1
- DAY 2
- DAY 3
- DAY 4
- DAY 5
- DAY 6
- DAY 7 - 8
- DAY 9
- DAY 10 - 11
- DAY 12
- DAY 13
- DAY 14
- DAY 15
- DAY 16 - 18
JOHANNESBURG – BUSH LODGE
Departing from the Greenfire Johannesburg Lodge at 06h30, we set off on the scenic road to the east of the country where we encounter beautiful natural scenery and many wild animals in natural parks and game reserves.
Lunch is enjoyed in the historic town of Dullstroom, Africa’s premier fly-fishing area before we wind our way down the Drakensberg escarpment. The road is filled with picturesque beauty, from mountain passes to the Acacia trees scattered across the African bushveld.
The next two nights we get cosy at our well-appointed GREENFIRE BUSH LODGE, situated in a private reserve within the greater Kruger National Park, where animals roam freely and unrestricted. This privately owned reserve allows us the freedom to explore the wilderness in search of a variety of animals in open game drive vehicles, day and night.
The tented lodge casually blends into the bush and offers crisp comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, a refreshing splash pool, and stunning views over the surrounding wilderness, including a water hole frequented by a variety of animals. Retire to bed with a symphony of sounds from the animal kingdom.
Meals: D (Lunch own expense)
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Scenic drive down to the Lowveld region
- Private Game Reserve Accommodation
BUSH LODGE
After a peaceful nights rest we start with an early riser light breakfast of fresh coffee and rusks (a traditional South African biscuit), before embarking on our morning experience within this Big 5 area.
Guided by a qualified guide/Ranger we explore the wilderness, with heightened senses, always on the lookout for an animal encounter while discovering the smaller treasures often hidden from the eye.
Before the heat of the day sets in, we return to the lodge for a scrumptious brunch, after which it’s time to relax around the lodge and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding wilderness. A nearby waterhole in front of the camp attracts a variety of wildlife that come to quench their thirst, displaying the pecking order ever so present. Unwind with a refreshing drink and game viewing from the swimming pool or from your deck.
With the heat subsiding in the late afternoon an open game drive is in order, which develops into an extensive night drive in search of nocturnal animals.
As dusk approaches we pull over and enjoy a sun-downer drink or two, while watching the magnificent sunset over the African bushveld.
Meals: Brunch Dinner
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Exclusive Private Reserve
- Morning and afternoon guided experience in Big 5 area
PANORAMA ROUTE - HAZYVIEW
Rising with the African sun, a hearty breakfast is enjoyed, before setting off to explore the highlights of the Panorama Route, famous for many natural wonders and viewing points. First stop will be to view the impressive Blyde River Canyon – the world’s largest “green canyon”, then on to Bourke’s Luck Potholes where abundant gold was discovered and finally the breath-taking God’s Window. (Weather Permitting)
An own expense lunch is enjoyed giving guests the opportunity to meet the locals.
Mid-afternoon we make our way to the tranquil GREENFIRE LODGE HAZYVIEW, a log cabin built spectacularly on stilts in the indigenous forest on the banks of the impressive Sabie River or “Fearful” river as dubbed by the locals.
Time permitting, guests are able to do a nature walk on the property and the adjoining coffee farm and enjoy the mysterious forest. We spend two nights here.
Meals: B D (Lunch own expense)
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Panorama Route
- God’s Window
- Bourke’s Luck Potholes
- 3 Rondavels
KRUGER NATIONAL PARK
Waking with the birds, we depart the lodge at sunrise and travel a short distance to enter a different area of the Kruger National Park for a full day of game viewing.
Driving slowly through this iconic National park the size of Israel or Wales we search for the many animals that inhabit this area.
From the high vantage point and comfort of our well-equipped vehicle, our expert guide will take time to explain the behaviour of the many animals we see in this fascinating environment.
Most of the day will be spent game viewing, while stopping at various designated sites to stretch our legs and to enjoy an own expense lunch at one of the rest camps in the park.
Late this afternoon we exit the park and return to the comfort of our GREENFIRE LODGE HAZYVIEW.
Meals: Packed Breakfast Snacks, Dinner
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Southern section of Kruger National Park
- Full day game drive
eSWATINI
Departing after breakfast we pass through the provincial capital Nelspruit, before leaving South Africa and crossing the border into the Kingdom of eSwatini formerly known as Swaziland, a small landlocked country, rich in culture and natural beauty.
Our journey today takes us into an area of spectacular natural beauty and past numerous traditional homesteads and vast fields of sugar cane.
We spend some time exploring this small country before arriving at our accommodation for the night. Clients spend time at leisure before enjoying a locally cooked meal.
Meals: B L D
Included Highlights/Activity:
- eSwatini
- Scenic drive
ST LUCIA
Today we follow winding roads south through the Swazi countryside, before crossing back into South Africa late morning. After completing the border formalities, we enter Zululand, a part of modern-day KwaZulu-Natal, and home to South Africa’s largest ethnic group, the Zulu people. Formed in the early 1800’s into the most powerful regional empire by King Shaka Zulu, the Zulus influenced a large part of southern Africa.
Once back in South Africa our journey continues to the coastal town of St Lucia, home to hundreds of hippo, crocodile and bird species that live in the adjoining wetlands.
This afternoon we launch on a boat and cruise on the estuary to explore a part of the wetlands in search of the fascinating wildlife found here.
Meals: B L D
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Scenic drive through Swaziland
- St Lucia boat cruise
DRAKENSBERG
We rise before the sun and depart to the oldest National Park in Africa – Hluhluwe Imfolozi, a beautiful park with hilly topography and a multitude of animals, renowned for its conservation efforts.
Following the morning game drive we depart the park and continue travelling through the rolling hills of Kwa-Zulu Natal, an area famous for various battles between the Boers and Zulus, British and Zulus and the Boers and British.
This afternoon we reach the majestic Drakensberg mountain range that reaches 3400m, known to the Zulus as “The Barrier of Spears”.
On reaching the foothills, we transfer to a 4×4 vehicle, for an exciting drive on mountain tracks (or walk), to the GREENFIRE LODGE DRAKENSBERG, located high up on the slopes of the mountain, with a perfect view of the iconic Drakensberg Amphitheatre.
We spend two nights here, in cozy log cabins surrounded by breath-taking views, and will have a day of hiking, exploring, and simply enjoying the wonders of this national heritage site. A walk to the San rock art gallery is well worth the effort. Horse riding is also available.
Meals: B L D; B L D
Included Highlights / Activity:
- Hluhluwe Imfolozi
- Drakensberg World Heritage Site
- San rock art
- Drakensberg hike
- Vulture colony
DOLPHIN COAST
We rise before the sun and depart to the oldest National Park in Africa – Hluhluwe Imfolozi, a beautiful park with hilly topography and a multitude of animals, renowned for its conservation efforts.
Following the morning game drive we depart the park and continue travelling through the rolling hills of Kwa-Zulu Natal, an area famous for various battles between the Boers and Zulus, British and Zulus and the Boers and British.
This afternoon we reach the majestic Drakensberg mountain range that reaches 3400m, known to the Zulus as “The Barrier of Spears”.
On reaching the foothills, we transfer to a 4×4 vehicle, for an exciting drive on mountain tracks (or walk), to the GREENFIRE LODGE DRAKENSBERG, located high up on the slopes of the mountain, with a perfect view of the iconic Drakensberg Amphitheatre.
We spend two nights here, in cozy log cabins surrounded by breath-taking views, and will have a day of hiking, exploring, and simply enjoying the wonders of this national heritage site. A walk to the San rock art gallery is well worth the effort. Horse riding is also available.
Meals: B L D; B L D
Included Highlights / Activity:
- Hluhluwe Imfolozi
- Drakensberg World Heritage Site
- San rock art
- Drakensberg hike
- Vulture colony
WILD COAST
Setting off early, we pass through the outskirts of Durban this morning, and follow the coast south towards one of the exciting, off-the-beaten-track, highlights of the tour – The Wild Coast.
Having formerly been an independent homeland, there has been little development in this area, resulting in endless unspoiled beaches, natural estuaries, rolling grassland, and a tapestry of traditional Xhosa villages.
This region also draws many a traveller to witness the annual Sardine run, one of the largest marine-life migrations on earth.
We spend two nights at a remote GREENFIRE LODGE, with a full day exploring this rugged, but stunningly beautiful, area. Hike along this stretch of coastline and tackle some of the best hiking routes in the country.
Guests will also have time to relax on the secluded beach in front of the lodge, or to go and swim at a nearby waterfall.
Meals: B L D; B L D
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Scenic drive to the Wild Coast
- Private beach
- Waterfall walk
- Hike along the coast
FRONTIER COUNTRY
Leaving the lush Wild Coast behind, our journey takes us into what is known as the “Frontier Country”, a region that was host to nine frontier wars between the Xhosa people and the farmers of the expanding Cape Colony, over a period of 100 years starting in 1779. Into this dangerous environment arrived 4000 British immigrants in 1820, who left their mark on the culture and architecture of the region. The road is defined by scattered hills and deep valleys with distant glimpses of the ocean.
We cover some distance today and spend the night in comfortable accommodation overlooking the university city of Grahamstown.
Meals: B L D
Included Highlights/Activity:
– Scenic Drive in Frontier Country
ADDO ELEPHANT PARK
This morning we drive a short distance to the renowned Addo Elephant National Park located on the popular garden route. We enjoy a game drive in the park from the high vantage point if our vehicle.
This diverse Wildlife Reserve is the 3rd largest in South Africa and home to more than 600 of Africa’s silent giants.
We get comfortable with a late afternoon picnic before making our way to our nearby accommodation
Meals: B L D
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Addo Elephant National Park
- Game drive in park
GARDEN ROUTE
We continue our journey along the spectacular Garden Route, with glistering rivers, lakes and ancient forests.
Our first stop will be at the Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park where we will enjoy a walk along the rugged coast and over the suspension bridge spanning the Storms River.
Traveling further we then pass through Plettenberg Bay before arriving in the vibrant town of Knysna, with indigenous forests, fynbos and lakes, making this little gem a natural Garden of Eden.
Late afternoon, we have time to explore this quaint town and enjoy an own expense meal, at one of the many boutique restaurants.
Meals: B L
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Tsitsikamma National Park
- Hike in Tsitsikamma
CAPE AGULHAS
Departing from Knysna we follow the scenic route through several coastal towns and make our way to Cape Agulhas – the most southern tip of the African continent. We enjoy a short walk down to the beach at this truly unique destination and official meeting point of the cold Atlantic and warm Indian oceans.
Picnic style lunch is enjoyed by all with the crisp clean ocean breeze, before leaving this treasure and retiring to our accommodation.
Meals: B L D
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Cape Agulhas
CAPE TOWN
A relaxed morning drive takes us on the “Whale Route” through Hermanus – known across the world for whale watching, and then around the Hottentots Holland Mountains to Betty’s Bay where we visit a small colony of Penguins.
This afternoon we follow one of the most scenic routes in the country along the edge of False Bay making our way towards the “Mother City”, Cape Town.
Mid-afternoon we arrive at the Mojo Hotel, located in Sea Point and our home for the next two nights. The hotel is conveniently located close to award winning restaurants, galleries, vibrant night life and the ocean promenade.
Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, rich in culture, award winning wines, world class restaurants, fashion and people from all walks of life.
We take a scenic drive to Hout Bay passing Long Beach, through the winding roads of Constantia to the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens situated at the foot of Table Mountain, a truly spectacular display of nature’s beauty.
Finishing our memorable South Africa tour, our last day we hike up Table Mountain –one of the 7 wonders of the world to enjoy the panoramic views from this iconic mountain.
Meals: B; B; B (Lunches and dinners on Day 16 & 17 as well as lunch on Day 18 own expense)
Included Highlights/Activity:
- Scenic Drive through Cape Town
- Table Mountain hike
- Coastal roads
The tour ends at 16h00 on Day 18. Clients may extend their stay by booking post-tour accommodation at the MOJO HOTEL. If arranging an onward flight on this day, please allow time for an airport transfer and for check-in procedures (up to three hours).
More about South Africa
My Travel Experience Review
This all-compassed South Africa tour has a knack of combining amazing wildlife viewing with precious cultural experiences. Travelling in custom-built vehicles is a big plus and the local guides are a fantastic resource. What stands out on this tour is the inclusions, from game drives and wildlife cruises to exploring private reserves and enjoying coastal walks.
More about this tour
See the brochure
Click here to view, download or print a copy of this tour brochure.
The brochure includes details of the inclusions, itinerary (where applicable) and other relevant travel information. Information contained in the brochure is subject to change and at the time of booking you will be provided with an updated copy that includes the current details for your reservation.
Tour departures
This tour departs every Tuesday in 2022. Please ask us for your preferred departure date and we will advise availability.
Tour start time
The start time listed for this tour is 6:30am. It is advisable to book a pre-tour night in Johannesburg to make sure you don't miss the start of the tour.
If you book international flights, you will be advised of your flight details and check-in times when your booking is confirmed.
Tour notes
WEATHER CONDITIONS
Please note that Southern African weather conditions vary tremendously from season to season. During summer months temperatures of up to 40°C can be experienced. During the winter months of June, July and August the nights are very cold, temperatures may drop well below 0°C, although the day temperatures will be pleasant at around 20°C.
CLOTHING & PERSONAL EFFECTS
Herewith a recommended guide of what to bring along:
Sport Shoes / Sneakers & Sandals
Hat & Sun Cream
Water Bottle
Smaller day pack
Camera, Binoculars
Books (Birds, Mammals, personal reading books, Optional)
For general travelling (to keep yourself entertained on the longer drives):
Personal iPod, iPad/tablet etc.
Personal reading books
A deck of cards or something similar
Battery chargers for your personal devices (iPads, E-Readers, Mobile phones, Cameras etc)
Vehicles are equipped with charging facilities while driving. A Two-pin charger is perfect.
Clothing and Toiletries:
Long Trousers / Tracksuit
Hat or cap
Shorts
Swimming Costume & Towel
Waterproof Windbreaker
Personal toiletries
Jersey / Jumper
Insect Repellent
Socks & Underwear
T-Shirts / Shirts
General Accessories:
Mosquito Net (Optional)
Malaria Prophylaxis (please enquire from your general Doctor at home)
Money (Sundry expenses, gratuities)
Torch / Flashlight / Batteries
Refreshments
Pen
Passport/Visa
Luggage to fit packing space on vehicles*
* Luggage should be limited to a maximum of 15kg
Each traveller will have their own locker on the trucks which is accessible even while driving. Backpacks, Barrel bags or Soft Suitcases are strongly advisable as your standard Hard Suitcases sometimes don’t fit in the lockers. Each locker could be locked with your personal lock (which you can also purchase from the Greenfire Johannesburg Lodge upon arrival).
MEALS AND REFRESHMENTS
Meals are provided as indicated in the itinerary/website. Soft drinks, bottled water and alcohol are for your own expense; there is ample opportunity during the tour to buy refreshments. The guide will advise when you need to stock up for a couple of days.
PERSONAL EXPENSES
A reasonable amount of personal spending money should be bought with you. This is to cover own expense meals as indicated in the Brochure, bottled water, soft drinks, alcohol, sundry goods purchased - such as suntan cream etc., curios, optional extra excursions, airport tax, transfers and tips.
In Africa things work a little different to the rest of the World. Tipping or gratuity, unless otherwise specified, is not included in the price you pay for services delivered. This accounts for restaurant meals, casual help and the services of the guide or guides that you will meet on your tour.
In Southern and East Africa it is classified as a common courtesy to TIP “casual help (guides)”.
This TIP is not something that is forced upon you by any means, but in many industries of tourism it is customary. It works as follows: if you believe your guide has lived up to your expectations and has performed his/her job in a way that you respect and are happy with the services rendered, an amount of R 50 per person per day or equivalent in any major currency would constitute a fantastic tip. Remember that this is just a guideline and is not by any means compulsory, but seen as common courtesy in Africa.
Important to remember...
The day-by-day tour descriptions are intended as an indicative guide only. Travel by nature is unpredictable. Weather patterns, sea or river conditions, road accessibility, public holidays, travel restrictions and a multitude of other factors may necessitate itinerary changes that are ultimately for the client's benefit. It is essential that travellers are flexible and open minded in this regard.
Speak to a travel specialist
The My Travel Experience team are travel experts and we're here to help you enjoy the best holiday - from the time you start to plan your trip until the day you return home. We are only a phone call or email away whenever you need us, so please contact us today with any questions.
Email hello@mytravelxp.com. Phone 1300 168 910 (in Australia) or +61 400 226 454 (from overseas or via mobile).
New safety measures, more flexibility and greater peace of mind.
The wellbeing and safety of our passengers and staff is always a priority, especially as we adjust to a new world for travellers. My Travel Experience is committed to ensuring your peace of mind with customer-friendly booking practices and enhanced health and safety standards on our trips.
We work closely with tour operators that have received the Safe Travels stamp by the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC), which enables travellers to recognise companies around the world that have adopted health and hygiene global standardised protocols.
To help you book with confidence, we will assist you if any unexpected situations arise and My Travel Experience also offers clients as much flexibility as possible when making bookings.
Pay Less to Book
New bookings on this tour only need to pay AU$210 per person deposit to confirm your tour reservation.
Flexible Booking: Pay 21 Days Before Departure
The due date for the final balance of payment for this tour is reduced to 21 days prior to the departure date. This gives greater flexibility, reduces risk and means you won't lose your money by locking in a great deal early.
No Change Fees
If you do need to alter your booking, until 21 days before departure there will be no change or penalty fees. Changes can include: the tour, departure date, destination and passenger name changes.
How it works
Notify us in writing at least 21 days before your departure if you are unsure about travelling and you will be given the option to keep any monies paid toward the original booking as Future Travel Credit, usable on a tour departing until 31 December 2022.
If you change to a trip or departure that is more expensive than your original booking, you will need to cover the difference in price. If the trip or departure is less expensive than the original, a Future Travel Credit will be issued for the difference.
If you wish to make a change with less than 21 days to your departure date, standard Booking Terms & Conditions apply.
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