Embark on an unforgettable adventure through South Africa and Eswatini on this immersive 18-night / 19-day SMALL GROUP GUIDED 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.
Your Journey
Day 1
1 NightYour journey begins in Johannesburg, where you’ll be met at the airport and transferred to your hotel. Take the afternoon to unwind and refresh. At 18:00, you will meet your guide and companion travellers for an informal pre-departure gathering to set the stage for your trip.
Where You'll Stay
Day 2
1 NightDeparting Johannesburg, travel east into Mpumalanga—a landscape defined by jagged peaks, panoramic passes, deep valleys, and pine forests. Spend the night in Graskop, a quiet timber town perched on the edge of the Drakensberg Escarpment. Positioned at the start of the Panorama Route, it serves as our gateway to Kruger National Park.
Where You'll Stay
Day 3
2 NightsThis morning begins along the Panorama Route, home to some of South Africa’s most striking natural landscapes. At its heart lies the Blyde River Canyon—the world’s third largest, distinguished by its lush, green canopy. We pause at Bourke’s Luck Potholes to observe the intricate rock sculptures carved by centuries of water erosion, before continuing to the canyon’s edge to take in the sheer scale of its cliffs and forested floor.
Where You'll Stay
Experiences
Day 5 - 6
2 NightsCross the border into the mountainous Kingdom of Eswatini, one of Africa’s few remaining monarchies. Here, traditional customs remain deeply woven into daily life. Your base for two nights is Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, the country's pioneer conservation area nestled in the Ezulwini Valley—the "Valley of Heaven." The sanctuary is home to hippo, giraffe, zebra, and diverse birdlife, which we explore on an afternoon guided walk.
The following day brings an authentic cultural visit to the Umphakatsi Chief’s homestead. Here, you are invited to join local artisans in grinding maize and weaving mountain grass, experience traditional song and dance, and share a regional meal served in the customary fashion.
Lunch is included on Day 6.
Where You'll Stay
Experiences
Day 7
2 NightsBrowsing a local craft market along the way, re-enter South Africa and journey into northern KwaZulu-Natal. By afternoon, reaching the coastal landscapes of iSimangaliso Wetland Park—a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its remarkable biodiversity, ancient dune forests, and pristine estuarine systems.
Where You'll Stay
Day 9 - 10
2 NightsEmbark on an exhilarating journey into Southern Drakensberg Park, where dramatic, towering peaks meet rugged landscapes. The following morning, step into a guided 4x4 for an unforgettable excursion up Lesotho’s legendary Sani Pass, navigating its thrilling hairpins with an expert mountain guide.
At the summit, celebrate the climb with a drink at the Highest Pub in Africa, taking in sweeping mountain vistas above the clouds. Following lunch (included on Day 10) immerse yourself in local culture during a visit to an authentic Basotho village. You’ll meet the resilient, welcoming Basotho people, learn about their mountain lifestyle, and hear fascinating stories from your guide. Keep an eye out for the famed Basotho Ponies—hardy descendants of Cape horses that remain vital to local transport. During your visit, you’ll have the chance to sample traditional homemade bread and beer, photograph the iconic conical mokorotlo straw hat, or purchase intricately woven bowls handcrafted by local women. After this rich cultural encounter, wind back down the Sani Pass, returning to Underberg between 16:00 and 16:30, depending on wildlife sightings along the route. Weather in the mountains shifts quickly - we recommend warm layers in winter and a light jacket for summer afternoons.
Lunch is included on Day 10 and dinner is included on both nights.
Where You'll Stay
Day 11 - 12
2 NightsHead 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.
Lunch is included on Day 11 and dinner on both nights.
Where You'll Stay
Experiences
Day 13
1 NightContinue today through the historic Zuurberg Mountain Pass, traversing rugged terrain alongside expert guides as late afternoon light illuminates the ancient landscape. Discover stories of early explorers and settlers amid sweeping vistas and vibrant wildflowers, finishing with an afternoon walk across the pass.
Where You'll Stay
Experiences
Day 14 - 15
2 NightsBegin with a morning open-vehicle game drive in Addo Elephant National Park before continuing toward the Garden Route, a region of striking coastal beauty. Base yourself in Storms River Village, set deep within the Tsitsikamma Forest, for two nights. Enjoy a relaxed hike along forest trails and a guided walk to the Storms River Mouth suspension bridge. For the adventurous, an optional bungee jump awaits at the nearby Bloukrans River Bridge (own account).
Where You'll Stay
Experiences
Day 16
1 NightJourney across the Outeniqua Mountains into the Little Karoo, arriving in Oudtshoorn. Visit a local ostrich farm to discover these remarkable birds before continuing to the vast Cango Caves, renowned for their intricate, ancient stalagmites and stalactites.
Where You'll Stay
Experiences
Day 17 - 18
2 NightsContinue toward Cape Town, stopping en route in Robertson for a cellar tour and wine tasting at a local estate. Upon arrival in Cape Town, enjoy an afternoon at leisure—unwind with sundowners along the beach or browse the shops at the V&A Waterfront.
The following day, explore the Cape Peninsula. Drive along the Atlantic Seaboard through Sea Point, Clifton, and Camps Bay, stopping at Maiden’s Cove lookout before reaching Hout Bay, where an optional boat trip to Seal Island awaits (seasonal, own account). Continue along dramatic Chapman’s Peak Drive toward Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve. In the afternoon, travel to historic Simon’s Town to visit the African penguin colony at Boulders Beach (entrance fee excluded).
Where You'll Stay
Experiences
Day 19
TravelEnjoy your final day at leisure. Weather permitting, take the cable car up Table Mountain (own account) for panoramic views over the Cape Peninsula before your transfer to the airport for your onward journey.
Experiences
All accommodation (or similar), transport, meals & activities as specified in the itinerary.
18 x Breakfasts, 03 x Lunches & 05 x Dinners - refer to daily itinerary.
International Flights; Visa fees (if applicable); Travel Insurance; Meals, Drinks & Activities not specified; Items of a personal nature - i.e. tips, telephone, laundry etc.
- 19 DAYS / 18 NIGHTS
