Day 1-3: Venda
Arrive in Johannesburg at the OR Tambo Airport. Collect your rental car and travel north to the Soutpansberg region in Venda. Venda, is one of the few regions that has been able to protect its identity of language, culture and way of living. This fruitful area is gifted with high mountains, peaceful valleys and beautiful indigenous forests with crystal clear water everywhere. The Venda arts and crafts reflect its cultural importance and obsession with spirits and myths. A visit to local artist in the villages is a must, as are Lake Fundudzi and the Holy Forest!
Accommodation suggestion: Leshiba Wilderness in the Soutpansberg
Day 4 & 5: Mapungubwe National Park
Mapungubwe, once the home of a sophisticated dynasty ruled by a powerful king, the sandstone hill is now the centrepiece of a national park and a World Heritage Site. It's the perfect combination of a birding paradise, abundant wildlife including 4 of the Big 5 (no buffalo) and a splendid cultural heritage proven by the pathway leading to the summit: Stairway to heaven. Enjoy game drives and walks at the Masepe Reserve.
Accommodation suggestion: Mopani Bush Lodge
Day 6-8: Tuli Reserve in Botswana
The Northern Tuli Game Reserve is a hidden gem in the easternmost corner of Botswana. This is a unique, timeless piece of Africa with spectacular wildlife, breath taking landscapes and fascinating history. Enjoy amazing game drives and bush walks just north of the Limpopo River. In addition visit the confluence where South Africa, Botswana and Zimbabwe meet and book an exciting sleep out in a hide.
Accommodation suggestion: Tuli Safari Lodge
Day 9 & 10: Kruger National Park - North
From one great wildlife reserve to the next! Back in South Africa you travel to the iconic Kruger National Park. The northern parts offer spectacular scenery including the Fever Tree Forest and Lennar Gorge. Enjoy self-drive safaris or join an experience ranger to spot the wildlife such as giraffe, lion, nyala as well as elephants resting in the shade of the big baobab trees.
Accommodation suggestion: Punda Maria Rest Camp or the fully inclusive Pafuri Camp
Day 11 & 12: Kruger National Park - central
Travel right through Kruger Park, from the hilly northern part to the more open, savannah plains of the central region. The Letaba and Olifants Rivers give life to this area where you can find animals drinking at the rivers, hiding in the Mopani trees and relaxing out on the plains.
Accommodation suggestion: Letaba Rest Camp
Day 13 & 14: Blyde River Canyon
Upon exiting Kruger you almost stumble upon the next natural highlight; the Blyde River Canyon.
This only true canyon in South Africa links with the incredible rock formations at Bourke's Luck Potholes, The Pinnacle and God's Window, with views stretching as far as Mozambique. The area offers numerous adventure activities too including a canopy tour, rafting, zip lining, hiking, horse riding and mountain biking.
Accommodation suggestion: Hoyohoyo Angels View in Graskop
Day 15
Last day to experience Africa. Travel to Johannesburg via the spectacular Long Tom Pass and the trout filled dams of Dullstroom. Hand your car in at the airport and board your flight home. |