Experience the wonders of South Africa and Zimbabwe on one extraordinary trip. Go on safari in the Greater Kruger area, spotting and photographing elephants, lions, and leopards on their own turf. Then fly to Zimbabwe to witness the spectacle of Victoria Falls, one of the most powerful waterfalls on the planet; and enjoy a traditional meal prepared by a local village family.
Day 1: JohannesburgArrive at any time and transfer to your hotel. Enjoy a dinner with your fellow travellers tonight.
Day 2: Johannesburg/Greater Kruger AreaSet out towards Kruger National Park via the magnificent Panorama Route, one of the world’s most picturesque drives. Make stops at the dramatic Blyde River Canyon and Bourke's Luck Potholes, and take in panoramic views of the forest-covered valley from the God's Window viewpoint. Continue to our lodge near Kruger National park, savour a delicious South African Dinner in this picturesque location.
Day 3: Kruger National ParkRise early and climb aboard an open jeep for a full-day safari in Kruger National Park—home to an extraordinary array of large mammals. Spot elephants, lions, giraffes, and perhaps elusive leopards as we explore this breathtaking wilderness of savanna and scrubland. Return to our lodge in the evening, where you can take some time to relax and enjoy the nocturnal sounds of the bush.
Day 4: Greater Kruger Area/Karongwe Private Game ReserveTravel to the Karongwe Private Game Reserve, a pristine wildlife sanctuary located in the Greater Kruger area. Meet with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Cheetah Metapopulation Project—a program funded in part by National Geographic’s Big Cats Initiative—and learn about efforts to protect the region’s cheetahs and other carnivores. The researcher then joins us for a wildlife-viewing excursion through the reserve.
Day 5: Karongwe Private Game ReserveSpend the day exploring Karongwe on morning and afternoon safaris with our local guides. Search for Africa's famed "big five" as we drive through the shrublands of the bushveld. Back at camp, relax on deck or take a walk around the grounds.
Day 6: Karongwe Private Game Reserve/JohannesburgEmbark on one last safari this morning, keeping a lookout for Karongwe’s iconic inhabitants. Then head back to the city, where you’ll enjoy dinner in our lodge.
Day 7: Johannesburg/Victoria FallsCatch a flight to the town of Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, named after one of the most powerful waterfalls on Earth. Visit a nearby village and go grocery shopping in the bustling market. Then sit down with a local family for dinner, helping your hosts prepare a traditional Zimbabwean meal using the ingredients you picked out, and hear stories about local life and culture.
Day 8: Victoria FallsSet out for a tour of magnificent Victoria Falls. Scottish explorer David Livingstone named them after Britain’s Queen Victoria, while their older, indigenous name is Mosi-oa-Tunya—“the smoke that thunders.” Opt for a scenic sunset cruise on the Zambezi River; and much more.
Day 9: Victoria FallsDepart at any time.