Embark on an unforgettable adventure through South Africa and Eswatini on this immersive 19-day journey. From the vibrant streets of Johannesburg to the majestic landscapes of Mpumalanga and the cultural richness of Eswatini. Encounter diverse wildlife in Kruger National Park, delve into Zulu traditions in Zululand, and unwind on the pristine beaches of Cinsta before culminating in the cosmopolitan charm of Cape Town.
On arrival in Johannesburg, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. You have the remainder of the day at leisure. This evening you will meet your guide and the rest of the group for your pre-departure meeting at 18h00.
Departing from Johannesburg we head east towards Mpumalanga. A landscape characterized by mountains, panoramic passes, valleys, rivers, waterfalls and forests. We 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.
Breakfast included.
This morning we start with a scenic drive along the Panorama Route, arguably one of the most beautiful destinations in South Africa. The most spectacular stretch is the Blyde River Canyon, which is the 3rd largest canyon in the world, and filled with lush vegetation and wildlife. We make a stop at Bourke’s Luck Potholes to view these spectacular rock formations, formed eons ago by erosion. Then, marvel at the vast expanse of Blyde River Canyon, where towering cliffs and lush landscapes create an awe-inspiring spectacle.
Breakfast included.
Today is spent on a full day open vehicle game drive in Kruger National Park where you will have the chance to encounter the wildlife of Africa in our comfortable 4x4 open vehicle.
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Today we cross the border into the mountainous Kingdom of Eswatini, 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. We spend two nights in the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Eswatini’s pioneer conservation area situated in the “Valley of Heaven”. Apart from abundant bird life, there are a number of animal species to be seen including hippo, giraffe, zebra, and a variety of antelope, which we hope to spot on a guided walk in the afternoon. The next day we visit the Umphakatsi Chief’s 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!
Day 5
Breakfast: At Hazyview Sun Hotel or similar
Day 6
Breakfast: At Mlilwane Rest Camp or similar
Lunch: Lunch in village or similar
Breakfast included.
After visiting a craft market en-route, we re-enter South Africa via Northern Kwa-Zulu Natal. We arrive at our lodge in the late afternoon.
Breakfast included.
Today we explore the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve, during a game drive in our tour vehicle. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi is the oldest game reserve in Africa and is a safe haven to both the endangered black and white rhino. In the afternoon we make our way to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which was listed as South Africa’s first World Heritage Site. Here we enjoy a boat cruise on the St Lucia estuary, getting up close to the hippos and crocodiles that inhabit the lake.
Breakfast included.
Embark on an exciting journey to the Southern Drakensberg Park, where rugged landscapes and towering peaks await. Join a guided 4x4 excursion up the legendary Sani Pass in Lesotho, navigating challenging terrain with expert guidance. At the summit, enjoy a refreshing drink and lunch while soaking in the breathtaking mountain views at the highest pub in Africa, nestled amidst the clouds.
Day 9
Breakfast: At Elephant Lake Hotel or similar
Dinner: At Premier Sani Pass Resort or similar
Day 10
Breakfast: At Premier Sani Pass Resort or similar
Lunch: At the Highest Pub Africa or similar
Dinner: At Premier Sani Pass Resort or similar
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Head south to Cinsta, the crown jewel of the Wild Coast. Here, miles of untouched beaches await, inviting you to relax and unwind. Feel the soft sand beneath your feet as you stroll along the pristine shoreline, soaking in the beauty of nature. Whether you're lounging by the sea or exploring hidden coves, Cinsta promises a tranquil escape by the water's edge.
Day 11
Breakfast: At Premier Sani Pass Resort or similar
Lunch: Lunchpack from Premier Sani Pass Resort or similar
Dinner: At Crawfords Beach Lodge or similar
Day 12
Breakfast: At Crawfords Beach Lodge or similar
Dinner: At Crawfords Beach Lodge or similar
Breakfast and Dinner included.
Today we take a journey through the historical Zuurberg Mountain Pass. Guided by experts, traverse rugged terrain as the late afternoon sun illuminates ancient rocks. Listen to tales of explorers and settlers amidst sweeping vistas and vibrant wildflowers. In the late afternoon enjoy a guided walk across the Zuurberg mountain.
Breakfast included.
Embark on a morning game drive in Addo Elephant National Park. We continue to the coastal town of St Francis Bay and enjoy a sunset boat cruise on the great canal system of the Kromme River.
The next day enjoy an informative Calamari tour & tasting at Port St Francis. This exclusive opportunity offers a chance to taste South Africa's finest local calamari, often referred to as "white gold," and gain a deeper appreciation for its exquisite flavours.
Breakfast included.
Embark on a scenic drive to the Tsitsikamma Forest, where you'll enjoy a guided walk to the iconic suspension bridge at Storms River Mouth. Experience the breathtaking views of the rugged coastline from high above the rushing waters. Continue your journey to Oudtshoorn, known as the ostrich capital of the world. Explore ostrich farms and immerse yourself in the town's rich cultural heritage. Enjoy the day's adventures and discoveries in these two unique destinations along South Africa's Garden Route.
Breakfast included.
Early morning embark an Ostrich Farm tour. Continue to Cape Town and on-route, we visit the town of Robertson, where you will enjoy a tour and tasting at a local wine estate. Once in Cape Town, the afternoon is at leisure, enjoy sundowners at one of the fabulous beaches or indulge in some last-minute shopping at the V&A Waterfront.
The next day we get to explore the many attractions the ‘Mother City’ has to offer, on a Cape Peninsula tour. Travelling along the Atlantic Seaboard via Sea Point, Clifton and Camps Bay, we stop at Maiden Cove look-out point before continuing to Hout Bay. Here you have the option to take a boat trip to Seal Island (seasonal and not included in the cost). We carry on over Chapman’s Peak, one of the world’s most breath-taking coastal drives, to Cape Point and the Good Hope Nature Reserve. In the afternoon we travel on to Simon’s Town, a village with charming Victorian architecture, a naval base and a large penguin colony at the beautiful Boulders Beach. Kindly note the reserve entrance fee at Boulders Beach carries an additional cost.
Breakfast included.
Spend the final day at leisure. Weather dependent, there is the chance to take the cable car up Table Mountain (own expense) and enjoy one last view of the Cape of Good Hope before your transfer to the airport.
Breakfast included.
| City | Accommodation |
|---|---|
| Johannesburg | Southern Sun OR Tambo Hotel or similar |
| Mpumalanga | Graskop Hotel or similar |
| Hazyview | Hazyview Sun or similar |
| Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary | Mlilwane Rest Camp or similar |
| Zululand | Ezulwini Lodge or similar |
| St Lucia | Elephant Lake Hotel or similar |
| Drakensberg Mountains | Premier Resort Sani Pass or similar |
| Wild Coast | Crawfords Beach Lodge or similar |
| Addo National Park | Zuurberg Mountain Village or similar |
| Cape St. Francis | Cape St Francis Resort Beach Break Villas or similar |
| Oudtshoorn | Mooiplaas Guest House or similar |
| Cape Town | Pullman Cape Town City Centre or similar |
Tour type: Small group lodge safari
Group Size: Min. 4* / Max. 14
At Eclipse Travel, our expert destination knowledge and decades of travel planning experience come at no extra cost to you. While many think booking through a tour operator is more expensive than planning a trip independently, that’s not the case. We’re paid by our travel partners—such as hotels, activity operators, and cruise providers—via commissions, not by our clients.
Our team negotiates the best rates for you and ensures you receive unbiased advice, with no preference for any particular supplier. In fact, where we secure higher commissions, we often pass the savings on to you, giving us a competitive price edge.
Additionally, we lock in exchange rates at the time of your deposit, ensuring no surprise costs when it’s time for final payment. You can rest easy knowing we’ll handle the details with our suppliers. The only exceptions are national park fee increases or fuel surcharges imposed after your booking, though these are rare.
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