Kruger, eSwatini & Lesotho
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14 day tour:

Kruger, eSwatini & Lesotho

Embark on a 14-day South African adventure: Kruger safaris, Panorama Route, Eswatini, Zululand, Drakensberg hikes, Lesotho's mountains, and Addo elephants.

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Kruger, eSwatini & Lesotho Tour

Embark on a 14-day South African adventure: Kruger safaris, Panorama Route, Eswatini, Zululand, Drakensberg hikes, Lesotho's mountains, and Addo elephants.

Trip Highlights 9 featured moments
Kruger National Park 4x4 game drive
Panorama Route - Bourke's Luck Potholes
Blyde River Canyon
God's Window
Game Drive in Kruger National Park
Game Drives (optional)
Mountain Biking (optional)
Hiking (optional)
Game Drive in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park

Itinerary

Embark on a 14-day South African adventure: Kruger safaris, Panorama Route, Eswatini, Zululand, Drakensberg hikes, Lesot...

DAY 1 Johannesburg to Greater K...
DAY 2 Kruger National Park Full...
DAY 3 Blyde River Canyon, God’s...
DAY 4 Greater Kruger to Eswatin...
DAY 5 Free Day in Eswatini
DAY 6 Eswatini to St Lucia Coas...
DAY 7 Hluhluwe–Imfolozi and St...
DAY 8 St Lucia to the Drakensbe...
DAY 9 Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Hi...
DAY 10 Drakensberg to Lesotho Hi...
DAY 11 Hiking in the Lesotho Hig...
DAY 12 Lesotho Highlands to Graa...
DAY 13 Graaff-Reinet to Addo Sce...
DAY 14 Gqeberha Leisure Experien...
DAY 1

Johannesburg to Greater Kruger Overland Transfer

Day 1 Dinner
Travel by road from Johannesburg to Greater Kruger and experience the steady change from metropolitan Gauteng to the lower, warmer landscapes of the northeast. Urban development becomes less dense as farmland and bushveld begin to dominate the scenery. The day is primarily devoted to transport, positioning you close to the wildlife reserves and nature experiences that form the focus of the following stages.

Activities

  • Johannesburg → Greater Kruger Park Depart Johannesburg and travel east through Mpumalanga toward the Greater Kruger region. Pass coalfields, rural towns, and scenic bushveld landscapes. Arrive near Kruger National Park ahead of tomorrow’s wildlife activities.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Extra day in Johannesburg - pre-tour
Arrival airport transfer in Johannesburg (free shuttle)
Johannesburg to Greater Kruger Overland Transfer
DAY 2

Kruger National Park Full-Day Safari Experience

Day 2 Breakfast,Dinner
Head into Kruger National Park for two complete days of safari exploration across a wide range of habitats. Spending longer in the reserve allows different areas to be visited and provides opportunities to observe how wildlife activity changes with weather, light and time of day. Elephants, predators, grazing animals and birds may all be encountered, but specific sightings remain dependent on natural conditions throughout both days.

Activities

  • Kruger National Park Spend a full day on safari in Kruger National Park in an open 4x4 vehicle. Explore different habitats while searching for the Big Five and many other mammals, birds and reptiles.
Kruger National Park Full-Day Safari Experience
DAY 3

Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window & Bourke’s Luck Potholes

Day 3 Breakfast,Dinner
Travel along the Panorama Route and focus on its principal scenic landmarks, including Bourke’s Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon and God’s Window. The day is centred on geological formations and elevated viewpoints rather than wildlife viewing, with repeated visits allowing different perspectives as conditions change. The escarpment’s dramatic scale provides a clear contrast with the warmer, lower landscapes nearby.

Activities

  • Panorama Route Explore the scenic Panorama Route along the dramatic escarpment. Visit key viewpoints including Bourke’s Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, and God’s Window. Enjoy sweeping landscapes and remarkable geological formations.
Blyde River Canyon, God’s Window & Bourke’s Luck Potholes
DAY 4

Greater Kruger to Eswatini Border Departure

Day 4 Breakfast,Dinner
Travel from the Greater Kruger area towards the Eswatini border and leave South Africa’s lowveld behind. Open savannah and bush gradually give way to more cultivated and undulating terrain as you approach the frontier. The day is centred on transport rather than organised activities, providing a direct connection between the safari region and the next country on the wider southern African journey.

Activities

  • Greater Kruger Park → Eswatini Travel south through Kruger National Park before exiting toward the Eswatini border. The route winds through lush forests and rolling mountains. Arrive in the scenic Ezulwini Valley near the capital.
Greater Kruger to Eswatini Border Departure
DAY 5

Free Day in Eswatini

Day 5 Breakfast,Dinner
Enjoy a completely free day in Eswatini and choose how you would like to spend your time. With no organised sightseeing planned, you can relax, explore nearby areas independently or simply enjoy the highland scenery and quieter pace of the country. The open schedule provides a useful break between overland travel days and allows you to make your own plans without a fixed programme.

Activities

  • Eswatini Spend the day exploring Eswatini at your own pace. Optional activities include game drives, hiking, and cultural encounters. Enjoy the relaxed atmosphere of the Ezulwini Valley.
Free Day in Eswatini
DAY 6

Eswatini to St Lucia Coastal Transfer

Day 6 Breakfast,Dinner
Drive from Eswatini to St Lucia and cross the international border back into South Africa during the journey. The landscape becomes progressively lower and warmer as you leave the uplands and move towards the eastern coastal belt. The transfer is primarily practical, providing a direct connection to St Lucia without scheduled activities before arrival.

Activities

  • Eswatini → St Lucia Re-enter South Africa and travel through historic Zululand toward the coast. Pass rural villages and diverse landscapes along the way. Arrive in the coastal town of St Lucia for your next experience.
Eswatini to St Lucia Coastal Transfer
DAY 7

Hluhluwe–Imfolozi and St Lucia Wildlife Experience

Day 7 Breakfast
Spend part of the day on safari in Hluhluwe–Imfolozi before travelling to St Lucia for an estuary cruise. The game reserve provides opportunities to observe a broad range of animals in natural habitats, while the boat trip offers a different perspective from the water. Wildlife encounters remain dependent on conditions, but both areas are important conservation environments within KwaZulu-Natal and support exceptional biodiversity.

Activities

  • Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Game Reserve Explore one of Africa’s most important rhino conservation parks. Search for Big-5 wildlife while learning about the region’s ecology. The reserve offers excellent chances for close-range sightings.
  • St Lucia Estuary Enjoy a relaxing cruise along the St Lucia estuary. Spot hippos, crocodiles, and abundant birdlife in this protected wetland system. The calm waters provide ideal viewing opportunities.
Hluhluwe–Imfolozi and St Lucia Wildlife Experience
DAY 8

St Lucia to the Drakensberg

Day 8 Breakfast,Dinner
Travel from St Lucia towards the Drakensberg and experience a substantial geographical change from coastal lowlands to South Africa’s mountain interior. As the drive progresses, flatter subtropical scenery is replaced by upland terrain and increasingly prominent peaks. The day is centred on transport, positioning you in the highlands for the walking and nature experiences that follow.

Activities

  • St Lucia → Drakensberg Travel through KwaZulu-Natal toward the dramatic Ukhahlamba Drakensberg mountains. Along the way, stop to view Howick Falls and the historic Mandela Capture Site. The journey ends at the foothills of this UNESCO-listed range.
St Lucia to the Drakensberg
DAY 9

Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Hiking Experience

Day 9 Breakfast,Dinner
Spend the day hiking within uKhahlamba Drakensberg Park and experience rugged peaks, basalt cliffs and broad mountain valleys in one of South Africa’s most dramatic highland regions. The walk reveals changing terrain, varied plant life and far-reaching views shaped by natural erosion. The high-altitude setting and open landscapes create an active day focused entirely on the park’s natural environment and mountain scenery.

Activities

  • Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park Spend the day hiking among towering cliffs and sweeping valleys. Trails vary in difficulty, allowing everyone to enjoy the mountain scenery at their own pace. The area is known for its dramatic basalt formations and open vistas.
Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Hiking Experience
DAY 10

Drakensberg to Lesotho Highlands Mountain Transfer

Day 10 Breakfast,Dinner
Drive from the Drakensberg into the Lesotho Highlands and experience the steady increase in elevation along the way. Rugged cliffs and rolling foothills gradually give way to wide mountain plateaus and sparsely populated upland scenery. The transfer provides a direct connection into Lesotho and introduces the country through its defining high-altitude landscapes before the next planned activities begin.

Activities

  • Drakensberg → Lesotho Highlands Travel through Golden Gate National Park before crossing into Lesotho. The route climbs into the highlands, offering sweeping mountain vistas. Continue past Maseru toward remote high-altitude villages.
Drakensberg to Lesotho Highlands Mountain Transfer
DAY 11

Hiking in the Lesotho Highlands

Day 11 Breakfast,Dinner
Spend the day hiking in the Lesotho Highlands and explore a distinctive upland environment of plateaus, ridges and rural settlements. Walking allows a closer appreciation of the scale and character of the landscape than overland travel alone. The activity remains focused on the mountain surroundings and local setting, providing an active day in one of southern Africa’s most elevated regions.

Activities

  • Lesotho Highlands Explore the rugged mountain terrain on a guided hike. The trail reveals dramatic cliffs, deep valleys, and rural Basotho settlements. Experience the crisp highland air and traditional way of life.
Hiking in the Lesotho Highlands
DAY 12

Lesotho Highlands to Graaff-Reinet

Day 12 Breakfast,Dinner
Travel from the Lesotho Highlands to Graaff-Reinet and experience a substantial change in elevation and landscape. Mountain valleys and upland plateaus are replaced by the wide, drier country of the Karoo as you continue into South Africa’s Eastern Cape. No formal sightseeing is included during the transfer, allowing the scenery and gradual geographical change to provide the main interest.

Activities

  • Lesotho Highlands → Graaff-Reinet Descend from Lesotho’s mountains into the wide plains of the Great Karoo. The journey crosses remote farmland and the Orange River. Arrive in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, known for its Cape Dutch heritage.
Lesotho Highlands to Graaff-Reinet
DAY 13

Graaff-Reinet to Addo Scenic and Wildlife Route

Day 13 Breakfast
Begin at the Valley of Desolation and experience the dramatic rock formations and open Karoo landscapes before driving onwards to Addo. Once at the national park, head into the reserve for wildlife viewing across thicket, plains and other habitats. Elephants are strongly associated with Addo, but no particular animal encounter can be guaranteed. The day combines a major geological landmark with safari exploration in the Eastern Cape.

Activities

  • Valley of Desolation Visit the Valley of Desolation for sweeping views over the Karoo plains. Sheer cliffs and volcanic rock formations create one of South Africa’s most dramatic landscapes. Enjoy the early-morning light across the valley.
  • Graaff-Reinet → Addo Travel from the Karoo to the coastal plains of the Eastern Cape. The route passes open farmlands and rugged hills before descending toward Addo. Prepare for an afternoon wildlife experience.
  • Addo Elephant National Park Enjoy a wildlife safari through Addo Elephant National Park, home to over 600 elephants and diverse species including buffalo, lion and various antelope. Experience one of South Africa’s most important conservation reserves.
Graaff-Reinet to Addo Scenic and Wildlife Route
DAY 14

Gqeberha Leisure Experience

Day 14 Breakfast
Spend the day at leisure in Gqeberha, with no included sightseeing or transfers to follow. The free time can be used for rest, independent exploration or time beside the coast according to your interests. Beaches, promenades and city neighbourhoods provide several possibilities, but the schedule remains deliberately open so that you can enjoy a quieter pause within the wider South African journey.

Activities

  • Gqeberha Enjoy free time in Gqeberha at the end of your tour. Relax, explore the beachfront, or prepare for onward travel. Additional nights and airport transfers can be arranged.

OPTIONAL EXTRAS

Extra day in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) - post-tour
Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Transfer
Gqeberha Leisure Experience

Included and Excluded

Included

  • 13 nights accommodation camping or lodges/hotels & camps
  • All transport using a 12 seater quamtum style vehicle
  • A range of inclusions as outlined in the itinerary
  • Qualified crew
  • National Park entrance fees
  • Local guides for sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary
  • Meals as outlined in the itinerary

Excluded

  • International flights (available on request)
  • Visa fees if required
  • Optional activities (see itinerary)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, get quote here)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinks, snacks, tips and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Entrance fees and activities not mentioned in itinerary
  • Any other items not mentioned above

Departure Dates

Guaranteed departures with confirmed dates. Book early to secure your preferred date.

Departure Date Return Date Availability From price Notes
20 Sep 2026 Sun 03 Oct 2026 Sat Available R57,580 -
18 Oct 2026 Sun 31 Oct 2026 Sat Available R57,580 -
15 Nov 2026 Sun 28 Nov 2026 Sat Available R48,940 R57,580 SAVE 15% -
13 Dec 2026 Sun 26 Dec 2026 Sat Available R48,940 R57,580 SAVE 15% -
10 Jan 2027 Sun 23 Jan 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
24 Jan 2027 Sun 06 Feb 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
07 Mar 2027 Sun 20 Mar 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
21 Mar 2027 Sun 03 Apr 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
04 Apr 2027 Sun 17 Apr 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
02 May 2027 Sun 15 May 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
16 May 2027 Sun 29 May 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
30 May 2027 Sun 12 Jun 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
11 Jul 2027 Sun 24 Jul 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
25 Jul 2027 Sun 07 Aug 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
22 Aug 2027 Sun 04 Sep 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
05 Sep 2027 Sun 18 Sep 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
19 Sep 2027 Sun 02 Oct 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
17 Oct 2027 Sun 30 Oct 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
31 Oct 2027 Sun 13 Nov 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
12 Dec 2027 Sun 25 Dec 2027 Sat Available R63,580 -
26 Dec 2027 Sun 08 Jan 2028 Sat Available R63,580 -
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 20 Sep 2026
END DATE 03 Oct 2026
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 18 Oct 2026
END DATE 31 Oct 2026
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 15 Nov 2026
END DATE 28 Nov 2026
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START DATE 13 Dec 2026
END DATE 26 Dec 2026
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START DATE 10 Jan 2027
END DATE 23 Jan 2027
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START DATE 24 Jan 2027
END DATE 06 Feb 2027
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START DATE 07 Mar 2027
END DATE 20 Mar 2027
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START DATE 21 Mar 2027
END DATE 03 Apr 2027
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START DATE 04 Apr 2027
END DATE 17 Apr 2027
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START DATE 02 May 2027
END DATE 15 May 2027
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START DATE 16 May 2027
END DATE 29 May 2027
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START DATE 30 May 2027
END DATE 12 Jun 2027
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 11 Jul 2027
END DATE 24 Jul 2027
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START DATE 25 Jul 2027
END DATE 07 Aug 2027
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START DATE 22 Aug 2027
END DATE 04 Sep 2027
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START DATE 05 Sep 2027
END DATE 18 Sep 2027
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 19 Sep 2027
END DATE 02 Oct 2027
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 17 Oct 2027
END DATE 30 Oct 2027
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 31 Oct 2027
END DATE 13 Nov 2027
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 12 Dec 2027
END DATE 25 Dec 2027
14 DAY TOUR
START DATE 26 Dec 2027
END DATE 08 Jan 2028
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Private Tours

Private Tailor-Made

Travel exclusively with your family or friends on a private tour tailored to your pace and preferences.

  • Flexible dates
  • Personalized experience
  • Premium comfort

Frequently Asked Questions

Why book the Kruger eSwatini & Lesotho tour?
This 14-day small-group overland journey from Johannesburg to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) takes you through four distinct destinations in southern Africa: Kruger National Park for Big-5 game drives and the Panorama Route, the landlocked Kingdom of eSwatini for culture and wildlife at Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, Zululand for Hluhluwe-Imfolozi (one of Africa's last rhinoceros strongholds) and a St Lucia estuary boat cruise, the UNESCO-listed Drakensberg mountains, the mountain Kingdom of Lesotho, and finally Addo Elephant National Park. It is a true overland adventure rather than a single-country fly-in, and no two days feel the same.
Is this tour suitable for first-time visitors to southern Africa?
Yes. The tour is designed to show you the best of this corner of Africa without requiring any prior knowledge. You travel in a 12-seater Quantum vehicle with large windows optimised for wildlife viewing, accompanied by qualified crew who handle logistics, park entries, and local guides for activities. Highlights like the Panorama Route's Bourke's Luck Potholes and God's Window, the Mandela Capture Site, and a guided Drakensberg hike give you both nature and history.
What is the best time of year for this tour?
South Africa is a year-round destination. The dry winter months (May to September) offer excellent game viewing in Kruger as animals gather at water sources, and days are warm and sunny. Summer (October to March) brings lush greenery and birdlife but also some rain and higher humidity. Lesotho and the Drakensberg can be cold at altitude in winter nights, so pack accordingly. Tour departures run throughout the year.
How many countries does this tour cover?
The tour visits South Africa (Kruger, Mpumalanga, KwaZulu-Natal, Drakensberg, Eastern Cape), eSwatini (formerly Swaziland), and Lesotho. Crossing into two independent kingdoms within southern Africa gives the tour a genuinely multi-country feel, with different cultures, landscapes, and wildlife at each stop.
Why does this tour cost what it does?
We get it, you can find cheaper Africa tours floating around. This tour includes 13 nights of accommodation at comfortable lodges and permanent en-suite tented camps (including Nkambeni Safari Camp next to Kruger, Forest Lodge at St Lucia, Monks Cowl in the Drakensberg, and Malealea Lodge in Lesotho), a full-day 4x4 open-sided game drive in Kruger, Hluhluwe-Imfolozi game drive, St Lucia estuary boat cruise, a guided Drakensberg hike, all national park entrance fees, and all transport in a purpose-built 12-seater Quantum vehicle with large viewing windows. That is a lot of included content for 14 days.
What is actually included in the price?
Included: 13 nights accommodation at lodges and camps, all transport in a 12-seater Quantum-style vehicle, national park entrance fees for all parks visited, local guides for sightseeing and activities as per the itinerary, qualified crew throughout, and 13 breakfasts and 11 dinners.
What is NOT included and how much extra should I budget?
Not included: international flights, visa fees where applicable, travel insurance (mandatory), lunches (none are included, so budget for 13 midday meals on the road), drinks, snacks, tips for guides and drivers, and optional activities such as pony trekking in Lesotho, optional game drives in eSwatini, morning bush walks, or an evening game drive at Addo. Budget for these extras when planning your trip.
Can I pay in instalments?
Yes. You can reserve your place online with a deposit or hold a reservation without immediate full payment. Full payment is due 8 weeks before departure. Payment is accepted by credit or debit card (a processing fee applies), bank transfer, or cheque.
How physically demanding is this tour?
This is a moderate-activity overland tour. Game drives involve sitting in a vehicle for extended periods on rough tracks. The Drakensberg hike on Day 9 can be several hours long on mountain trails, and Lesotho involves a couple of hours walking on foot in high-altitude mountain terrain. The tour notes flag that bumpy roads can be uncomfortable for those with back problems. You do not need to be an athlete, but you should be reasonably fit and mobile.
What if I am older than the rest of the group?
Older travellers join this tour regularly. The game drives, boat cruise, and most sightseeing are accessible. The Drakensberg hike can be adjusted for different fitness levels within the group, so you are not locked into a pace that does not suit you. The one honest caveat is that long stretches of bumpy overland roads can be tiring, and Lesotho is at high altitude. If you have significant cardiovascular or joint concerns, speak with us before booking.
What if I have mobility issues or a medical condition?
The overland vehicle requires stepping up into the vehicle, and some accommodation is in tented camps with walking on uneven ground. If you have significant mobility restrictions, please contact us before booking so we can discuss what is and is not feasible. Travellers 65 and over are asked to complete a brief health questionnaire approximately 30 days before departure so we can ensure appropriate emergency planning.
Do I need malaria prophylactics?
The Kruger National Park region and parts of KwaZulu-Natal are in a malaria zone. You should consult your GP or a travel clinic before travelling to get current advice on prophylactics appropriate for the regions and your health profile. Long sleeves, mosquito repellent, and sleeping under nets where provided are also recommended.
Is South Africa safe to visit?
South Africa is a well-established tourist destination. The main areas on this itinerary, Kruger, the KwaZulu-Natal coast, and the Eastern Cape, are visited by many international travellers each year. Standard urban precautions apply in Johannesburg, where the tour starts and you may spend a pre-tour night. Check your national government's current travel advisories before departure and follow your crew's advice on ground.
Is it safe for women travelling solo?
Yes. Many solo female travellers join this tour. The small group setting means you are always with your crew and fellow travellers. Standard common-sense precautions apply, particularly in urban areas like Johannesburg, and your crew will advise on any location-specific considerations as you move through the route.
What happens if I get sick on tour?
Your crew carries a basic first-aid kit and has experience managing health issues on the road. Travel insurance with full medical cover and emergency evacuation is mandatory, as some areas of the route (Lesotho's mountain interior, remote Karoo) are a distance from major hospitals. Make sure your policy covers all activities including game drives and hiking.
Are the animals dangerous on game drives?
All game drives in open 4x4 vehicles are led by qualified local guides who follow park safety protocols. You stay in or very close to the vehicle at all times unless explicitly told otherwise. Kruger and Hluhluwe-Imfolozi are well-managed parks with experienced rangers. The risk from wildlife is managed, not eliminated, which is precisely what makes it a genuine safari.
What is the accommodation actually like?
Accommodation ranges from permanent en-suite safari tents to comfortable lodges. At Kruger you stay at Nkambeni Safari Camp, with 146 luxury timber-and-canvas tented suites featuring air conditioning, indoor and outdoor shower, and a pool overlooking a wildlife dam. At St Lucia you stay at Forest Lodge. In the Drakensberg you stay at Monks Cowl. In Lesotho you stay at Malealea Lodge, a well-regarded base in the mountains. In Graaff-Reinet the stay is at Profcon Resort, and the tour ends at Garden Court Kings Beach Hotel in Gqeberha.
What is Malealea Lodge in Lesotho like?
Malealea Lodge is a well-established travellers' base in the mountains of Lesotho, a country often called the 'Kingdom in the Sky' because no point in the country falls below 1,000 metres. It is a relaxed, community-connected property set against spectacular mountain scenery. Pony trekking excursions to waterfalls and Bushman paintings depart from here as optional extras.
Will I have Wi-Fi?
City hotels and larger lodges typically have Wi-Fi. In remote areas such as Malealea Lodge in Lesotho and the Nkambeni tented camp next to Kruger, connectivity may be limited or absent. Download what you need before heading into the bush.
Can I upgrade my accommodation?
The tour can be booked as a private departure with customised accommodation options. Contact the sales team to discuss alternatives. Room shares on this tour are not available, so solo travellers will need to add the single supplement.
What kind of food will we eat?
Breakfasts are provided at your accommodation each morning and dinners are included most evenings, covering a range of South African and international dishes. Lunches are not included in the tour price, so you buy these on the road. Local food highlights include South African braai (barbecue) evenings and various regional specialities as you move through different areas.
Can you cater for vegetarian vegan or gluten-free diets?
Let us know your dietary requirements when you book. Most lodges on the itinerary can accommodate vegetarian and vegan needs, though remote areas like Lesotho have more limited options. The more notice we have, the better prepared your crew and accommodation providers will be.
Is it safe to drink the water?
Tap water quality varies across the countries on this tour. Stick to bottled or filtered water throughout. A Water-to-Go filter bottle (use code ENCOUNTERS25 for a discount) is a practical way to stay hydrated while reducing single-use plastic.
Is this trip good for solo travellers?
Yes. Many solo travellers join this tour. The small group maximum (12 in the vehicle) means you quickly build friendships with your fellow travellers and crew. Note that room shares are not available on this tour, so a single supplement applies for solo travellers.
Do I have to share a room?
Unlike some tours where we try to match solo travellers together, room shares are not available on this tour. Solo travellers need to add the single supplement when booking.
What is the group size and who else will be on the trip?
The vehicle holds a maximum of 12 travellers, with a minimum of 4 to operate. This is a genuinely small group. Travellers come from all over the world, a wide age range, and a mix of solo travellers, couples, and friends.
Can I book this as a private tour?
Yes. Private charters are available on any date. This is particularly useful if you have a specific travel window that does not align with scheduled group departures. Extensions starting from Cape Town are also available, ask for details when you enquire.
Is this tour suitable for children?
There is no specified minimum age, but the tour is best suited to adults and older teenagers. Long days in the vehicle, remote accommodation in Lesotho, and the physical demands of the Drakensberg hike make it less suitable for young children. Contact us to discuss if you are travelling with young people.
Do I need a visa for South Africa eSwatini or Lesotho?
Visa requirements depend on your nationality and are subject to change. Many nationalities (including British, US, Australian, and EU) do not require a visa for South Africa, eSwatini, or Lesotho for short tourist stays, but you should verify current requirements with the relevant embassies before travel. Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months after your departure date.
What should I pack?
No hard Samsonite-style suitcases: use a soft backpack or holdall of up to 20kg plus a daypack. Wear dull, neutral colours (khaki, olive, brown, stone) for game drives. Avoid white, black, blue, and camouflage. Pack layers for cool Drakensberg and Lesotho mountain nights, swimwear for the Nkambeni pool, walking shoes with ankle support, sun hat, insect repellent, and sunscreen. A sleeping bag is useful for cooler nights.
Are any vaccinations required?
For South Africa, Hepatitis A is recommended. Malaria prophylactics are advisable for the Kruger region and parts of KwaZulu-Natal. A Yellow Fever vaccination certificate may be required if you arrive from or transit through an infected area. Check with your GP or a travel clinic for up-to-date, personalised advice.
Do I need to book international flights through you?
No. International flights are not included. You fly into OR Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg (the tour starts from Johannesburg) and depart from Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth). The team can suggest flights if you ask.
What about tipping?
Tipping is part of southern African travel culture. For overland crew, a fair guide is a few dollars per person per day per guide. For specific activities (Serengeti or Masai Mara guides, park rangers), your crew will advise appropriate amounts in local currency. Tipping is always at your discretion and based on the quality of service.
Can I add pony trekking in Lesotho?
Yes. Pony trekking excursions from Malealea Lodge are available as a locally booked option. Options include a waterfall trek and a Bushman paintings trek. These operate with a minimum of 2 participants and are one of the most distinctive experiences on the whole route.
Can I do extra game drives in eSwatini?
Yes. Your crew can arrange optional game drives, hiking, or mountain biking activities in eSwatini on your free day. These are booked and paid locally.
Can I add extra time before or after the tour?
Yes. An extra night in Johannesburg pre-tour and an extra night in Gqeberha post-tour are available as bookable options through us, with airport transfers also available separately. Extensions starting from Cape Town are also possible, ask for details.
Can I do a sunrise Valley of Desolation excursion?
Yes. The Valley of Desolation sunrise visit in Graaff-Reinet is scheduled for Day 13 and is built into that day's itinerary. It gives you a panoramic view over the historic Karoo town and the wide plains below before heading to Addo.
How far ahead should I book?
This tour runs with a minimum of 4 travellers. Places fill across all seasons. Booking 3 to 6 months in advance is advisable to secure your preferred departure. Private charters can be arranged on more flexible timelines.
How does booking work?
Complete the online reservation form via the Dates and Prices tab. Pay a deposit, pay in full, or hold a reservation (full payment due 8 weeks before departure). You will receive a booking confirmation by email with full preparation details.
Do I need travel insurance?
Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. Your policy must cover personal accident and liability, medical expenses, emergency evacuation and repatriation, and travel delay and abandonment. For the Kruger region, ensure malaria-related medical cover is included. For Lesotho's high-altitude mountain terrain, check that emergency evacuation is covered. World Nomads Travel Insurance covers adventure activities and is one option worth considering.
What is your cancellation policy?
A sliding scale cancellation policy applies, with charges increasing closer to departure. Full details are in the booking conditions. Encounters Travel is UK-registered, and your funds are protected through Trust My Travel's insurance scheme.
What if my preferred dates are sold out?
Contact the team to join a waitlist or discuss a private charter on dates that suit you. Private tours run on any date with a flexible minimum group size.
Still have questions?

Contact our travel team.

Contact our team

Traveler Reviews

4.7
Excellent
Based on 1,738 reviews
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92% of travelers recommend this tour
S
SarahMonroe
South Africa
Nov 01, 2019
My boyfriend and I and just returned from a South African trip booked by Encounters Travel. Awesome travel experience. Encounters handled everything from our flights to our hotel bookings. The flights that were booked were the best flights with the shortest times and layovers. All of our hotels were at least a 4 start some 5 stars. Every time I emailed the company I heard back from someone within about 24 hours. I would book and travel with them again.
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fajeriyah
Egypt
Oct 01, 2015
Second trip with Encounters ... First one was good but Egypt was very professional. What an amazing experience. Arriving in Egypt at 3.45 a.m. (their local time), there was this guy with a HUGE smile and an Encounters sign ... MOHAMED KHALIFA. He escorted us through customs and took us to our hotel and settled us in with a very early check in. He went over our iternary and suggested some additional add-on. You immediately realize you are in good hands. Mohamed Khalifa you are exceptional.
Then there were our tour guides. The City Tour we did with Big Mo and the rest of the tour with SHERIFF. Sheriff is really an excellent guide. Our walking Encyclopedia of Egyptian History. His passion, sense of humor, his willingness to accommodate individuals and a fantastic person to hang out with. The tour guides made sure that their guest had a memorable experience. We love you GROUP Cccccccccccccccc.
Hats off to our drivers. Traffic is really insane in Cairo. You have to see it to believe it. But they are really professional at navigating through traffic.
SAFETY ... We never felt UNSAFE at any given time. We always had a guide and even had a guard walking with us. We were given time to do our own thing, shopping, take pictures and just chill. You weren't even aware of the guard but they were watching you. There is no crime ... one lady took a walk by herself after 10 the evening to have supper in a restaurant.
Lastly the PEOPLE of Egypt. They rely on Tourism to make a living. So yes, they hassle you all the time but they don't harass or threaten you in anyway. They can be annoying but otherwise friendly especially when they heard we were from South Africa. Then they would go BAFANA BAFANA.
Best way to see Egypt is with ENCOUNTERS TRAVEL ... they are professional, committed and organized not forgetting Mariska. This is the perfect way to see Egypt with all its history ... that way you don't miss out on anything.
Overall AMAZING experience. Will I do it again? .... YES.
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Fajie
Turkey
Oct 01, 2014
I can really recommend to book a trip through ENCOUNTERS TRAVEL. Stumbled across them by accident when i was searching the net for best prices. Being from South Africa with the weak ZAR they came out tops. Booked the 10 day Anatolian Adventure. All entrance fees was included. Thanks to Mariska for always getting back to me immediately. The tour surpassed my expectations and the accommodation provided was mostly 5 star. The tour guide Ilker (from Fez Travel) was amazing. He was very informative and not forgetting our good driver Irfaan. We had a small group of 10. Overall, a great trip. Worth every penny. Will definitely book my next trip through ENCOUNTERS TRAVEL
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nicholldenice
South Africa
Feb 01, 2013
I toured South Africa with Encounters Travel in February 2013. I am glad that I took the trip. The two guides were great. They were very friendly and knowledgeable and made everyone feel comfortable. The accomodations were excellent. The planned activities were fun and informative. I would definitely use Encounters Travel again for a trip.
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Freetobemyself
South Africa
Jan 01, 2013
I got a Living Social announcement for North American travelers for a 1 week South African tour with a 50% discount. All the group joined in the same manner. I am not sure what the regular price would have been for this Garden Tour so I cannot discuss the deal.

I could tell that the Encounters organization is very reliable. The preparation pamphlet is extremely important as it seems to describe the worse scenario one may encounter in adventure trip, and sets travelers to an easy going attitude and expectations. Everyone in my group cooperates to eventual restrictions in the community with maturity and a good sense of humour.

We run into no problem at all except an unannounced dowgrade in the 1st hotel. Lodging and food were very good. We were several to suggest less driving, at least some nights in Cape Town and more visits in thi Garden Tour.

As I come from Canada, I suggested a longer tour even though I may have to pay more. So I arranged myself extension of the stay (before and after the Tour) as I did not have enough of safari, artifact shopping in South Africa. The booking office in England would assist you to prolong your stay.

In particular, the Encounter Travel booking desk from England are very reliable, available and helpful. I trusted them fully and were not dissapointed at all. Thank you Anthony and your team !

Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level.

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the country you're visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Most other options can be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Most options are priced the same throughout the year, though some may have seasonal pricing or minimum number requirements - our sales team will advise the final pricing based on your travel date and number of passengers on your booking.

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below provide important practical information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday.

1. Accommodation

We use good quality hotels, lodges and camps rated at the local 2 to 4-star level, with the majority of rooms en-suite. In some places more basic properties with separate bathrooms, or permanent safari tents may be used. We aim always to use accommodation that is in keeping with the local area so there is a good variety. Local star ratings may vary slightly from international standards. Accommodation is based on twin or double rooms, chalets, bungalows or safari tents. All couples will be given a private double room. Friends booking together will also share a room. 

Please check the Single Room Supplement option for details on room sharing options and charges for solo travellers on this tour.

Note - Accommodation providers are subject to change without notice. The properties listed are our preferred options, but sometimes due to availability or other issues with the property, we may substitute another property of similar standards.

2. Transport
3. Group Size/Tour Leaders/Guides
4. Local Options
5. Destination Guides
6. Booking & Payment
7. Financial Security
8. Responsible Tourism
9. Follow Us Online
10. Travel Insurance
11. Before you travel
12. Reduce Plastic Waste with Water-to-Go Filter bottles
13. Private & Tailor-made Tours
14. Health and Vaccinations
15. Passports and Visas
16. Tipping
17. International Flights and Airport Transfers
18. What to take

Travel Inspiration

Related blog articles to help you plan and get inspired before your trip.

Related blog articles are coming soon.