32 DAY JOURNEY TO THE CAPE
JOHANNESBURG TO CAPE TOWN - This trip starts in Johannesburg
and travels north through South Africa, Zimbabwe, Botswana,
Namibia and finishes in Cape Town.
Please note that this trip departs Johannesburg on a Wednesday,
early morning. Should you wish to spend extra time there an
earlier arrival should be planned and additional accommodation
booked through the African Budget Safaris office.
Pre Departure Meeting: Held at departure
point at 5:00pm the day before your departure.
Departure Point: Ritz backpackers 1A North
Road, Dunkled West.
Check In Time: 8:45am
Departure Time: 9:30am
TOUR COST: R9450 + Local Payment: US$745
Itinerary:
DAY 01: Johannesburg to Hazyview
Departing Johannesburg we head towards the Lowveld and the
very famous Kruger National Park, our camp for the next two
nights is 8km from Kruger Parks Numbi Gate. Spoilt with a
swimming pool and good hot showers we spend the evening around
the campfire anticipating our game drive tomorrow. (L,D)
DAY 02: Kruger National Park
Kruger National Park is one of the most famous wildlife parks
in the world. Covering an area of 21, 497 sq km – 60km
wide and over 350km long, this conservation area has more
than 500 bird species, 114 reptile, 49 fish, 33 amphibians,
146 mammals and over 23000 plant species have been recorded.
Today is spent in the Park on a full day game drive to see
how many of the species can be found. Tonight there is an
option of a night drive in the park (B,L,D)
DAY 03: Kruger Park to Graskop
After a quick replenishing of our stocks we leave the Lowveld,
climbing up in altitude to the beautiful town of Graskop,
it is from this gateway that we get to explore the beauties
of Mpumulanga, known for some of the best landscape in South
Africa. Our stops for the day include the ever striking Blyde
River Canyon and Gods Window. There is a chance to view the
Canyon from the many viewpoints, which offers fantastic photographic
opportunities. We then set up camp on lush green grass and
enjoy the luxuries of a swimming pool with the most amazing
view. For those in a party mood the small town of Graskops
nightlife is something to be indulged in. (B, L, D)
DAY 04: Graskop to Messina
A long yet lovely days drive as we head up north toward Zimbabwe,
this is your chance to sit back, relax and enjoy the ever
changing scenery, tonight is our last night in beautiful South
Africa in a town called Messina – said to be one of
the hottest areas in South Africa. Years back this was a flourishing
copper mining area, but with the mines closing down in the
early 1990’s it tumbled into the darkness of a small
quiet ghost town. With the discovery of diamonds it has again
once flourished into its former self, and now a sphere filled
with history. (B, L, D)
DAY 05 Messina to Masivingo
Leaving South Africa we enter Zimbabwe a country of tradition,
culture, soul and a lot of scenic beauty. We make our way
to the town of Masivingo, which lies in the outskirts of the
Great Zimbabwe Ruins. Great Zimbabwe was the greatest medieval
city in sub-Sahara and provides evidence that an ancient African
civilization reached a very high level of civilization. The
name Zimbabwe is derived from the Shona word meaning great
stone houses. The grand setting and history soaked  walls
certainly qualify as one of the highlights of our trip. You
will have the time to wander around this ancient wonderland
before setting up camp for our first night in Zimbabwe. (B,
L, D)
DAY 06: Masivingo to Gweru
Once we have finished exploring this historic area we continue
our journey to Gweru, situated in the Zimbabwe Midlands. Here
we stop over at The Antelope Park. People say you have not
been to Zimbabwe until you have visited the Victoria Falls
… AND The Antelope Park. Here you have the opportunity
to partake in an incredible experience unique to The Antelope
Park - ‘Walking with the lions”. In addition to
the lions there is an abundance of other wildlife species
in the park such as elephants, giraffe, zebra, wildebeest
and over 150 bird species. (B, L, D)
DAY 07: Gweru – Antelope Park
Today is spent as leisure with a variety of activities to
enthral you. From walking with Lions, elephant riding, swimming
on the majestic elephant, to trying your hand at fishing the
list is endless. (B, L, D)
DAYS 08: Gweru to Bulawayo
Bulawayo is the second largest city in Zimbabwe with a laid
back atmosphere. It is noted for the exceptionally wide streets,
which were originally designed to allow space for a full span
ox wagon. The city is still characterised by the many old
British colonial buildings, maintained by the Bulawayo City
Council as heritage sites. There are a number of interesting
places to visit in Bulawayo such as The natural History Museum,
the National Arts Gallery and the Mzilikazi Arts and Crafts
Centre, providing work for over 70 people. (B, L, D)
DAY 9: Bulawayo
Today we take in Matobo National Park. The park is one of
the last strongholds of both black and white rhino, and the
region is renowned for it’s high concentration of leopards
and black eagle. There are numerous caves and rock painting
which once again is evidence of the ancient San inhabitants
of this area. Cecil Rhodes (after whom Rhodesia was named)
is buried here at his own request, but there is some controversy
over whether he will stay! We spend time game driving through
the park giving you an insight into the unique geological,
ecological and historical environment. The afternoon will
give you time to explore Bulawayo and its many markets (B,
L, D)
DAY 10: Matobo National Park to Victoria Falls
Heading north we make our way to the mighty Victoria Falls,
one of the natural wonders of the world. Victoria Falls is
one of the memorable sights on your African safari. There
are many activities available all year round such as, flights
can be taken which gives you a panoramic view of the Falls,
Batoka Gorge and the islands above the falls. Back on the
ground, the Falls can be seen from the Victoria Falls Park
with its many viewing points, or from the Zambian side. All
offer fantastic photographic opportunities.
White water rafting in the Batoka Gorge is considered to
be world class. Besides the excitement of the grade 5 rapids,
there are "floats” where there is time to admire
the scenic cliffs and occasional wildlife on the riverbanks.
Bungee jumping enthusiasts can take the plunge from the Zambezi
Bridge, which connects Zambia and Zimbabwe. The leap into
the Batoka Gorge is certainly not for the faint-hearted.
Other optional activities around Victoria Falls include day
trips into the Zambezi National Park, horse riding safaris,
a visit to the Crocodile Ranch, Snake Park, golf at Elephant
Hills Hotel, parachuting, the Falls Craft Village and the
Sunset Cruise. (B, L)
DAY 11 &12: Victoria Falls
The next two days are spent at your leisure giving you time
to partake in the many activities available in Victoria Falls.
(B both days)
DAYS 13: Victoria Falls to Chobe National Park
This morning we depart Victoria Falls after breakfast and
cross the border of Zimbabwe into Botswana. We set up camp
for the night. The rest of the day is spent exploring the
area and relaxing on the banks of the Chobe River. Chobe is
one of Botswana’s premier game parks, renowned for the
large herds of elephant around the Chobe River. (B,L,D)
DAYS 14: Chobe National Park
This morning you have the option to do an early-morning game
drive into Chobe National Park. Chobe is one of Botswana’s
premier game parks, renowned for the large herds of elephant
around the Chobe River. After our game drive we return to
camp for lunch. Late afternoon we take a boat cruise along
the Chobe River. Elephant, hippo and many bird species can
be viewed from the boat while we watch the renowned Chobe
sunset. (B, L, D)
DAYS 15: Chobe National Park to Maun
Today we travel in a south-westerly direction to Maun, our
base camp before we start our Optional Excursion into the
Okavango Delta. Today is a long day’s drive with lunch
on the roadside. (B,L,D)
The Delta is a huge expanse of water, which has travelled
from the Angolan highlands, spreading out to form the largest
inland Delta in the World.
Studded with exotic islands, the Delta is renowned for its
incredible variety of bird life as well as many other animals
unique to Southern Africa.
 DAY
16: Okavango Delta
Here you have the opportunity to take the optional 3 day /
2 night excursions into the Delta. With this excursion we
travel approximately 1-2 hours north to the Mokoro polers
station. From there we hire mokoros, the local dug out canoes,
which are poled by local guides through the winding waterways.
Your guides will select a place to set up camp. An afternoon
game walk will allow you to experience the Delta wilderness.
(B,L,D)
DAY 17: Okavango Delta
A day of rest, relaxation and Delta experiences await. Today
you will have the opportunity to partake in a number of activities
including game walks, mokoro cruises, swimming and even a
chance to try your hand at poling your own mokoro! (B,L,D)
DAYS 18: Okavango Delta to Maun
There is a final opportunity for a morning game walk before
packing up camp and setting off back to Maun. After arriving
back in the early afternoon you have the opportunity to complete
your picture of the Okavango Delta by taking an optional sunset
scenic flight over the Delta region (US$55+ dependant upon
numbers). (B,L,D)
DAYS 19: Maun to Rundu
Departing Maun we head in a south west direction along the
Kavango River and enter Namibia in the Northern region. We
stock up our supplies in Rundu before reaching our campsite
for the night. This campsite is spectacular and located right
on the banks of the Kavango River complete with “open
air” facilities and the occasional hippo grazing on
the lawn. (B,L,D)
DAY 20: Rundu to Etosha (Namutoni)
Today we arrive at Etosha National Park in the late afternoon.
Etosha is the major nature reserve of Namibia, covering over
20 000 square kilometres with a large variety of animal and
bird species. The park is situated around the Etosha Pan,
and has an extensive network of gravel roads that enable us
to get to remote areas of the park. A feature of the park
is the floodlit water holes at both Namutoni and Okakuejo.
Evenings can be spent sitting on the specially constructed
viewing benches watching the game as it comes in to drink.
(B,L,D)
DAY 21: Etosha (Okaukuejo)
Another full day of game driving as we make our way across
150kms of the park from east to west. Tonight you have another
opportunity to spend at leisure around the fantastic floodlit
waterholes. (B,L,D)
DAY 22: Etosha to Cheetah Park
A short drive take us to the Cheetah Park, a private farm
where you will learn about the conservation of the cheetah
population in Namibia and have a chance to meet the resident
cheetah's up at the house. A photo opportunity not to be missed!
(B,L,D)
DAY 23: Cheetah Park to Spitzkoppe
A days drive takes us to Spizkoppe, the 1728m high rock formation,
one of Namibia’s most recognised landmarks. There is
opportunity to explore the bushman paintings and surrounding
area. A night camping under the stars is a must here! . (B,L,D)
DAY 24: Spitzkoppe to Swakopmund
We follow the Atlantic Coast south to visit the Cape Cross
Seal Colony. Of the 23 breeding colonies of Cape Fur Seals
along the coast of South Africa and Namibia, Cape Cross is
the largest. Seals are present through out the year and numbers
fluctuate between 80 000 and 100 000 individuals, rising to
around 200 000 during the breeding season. It was here that
the Portuguese navigator, Diego Cao, erected a stone cross
in 1846, becoming the first European to set foot on the coast
of Namibia. We arrive in Swakopmund later afternoon. (B,L)
DAYS 25 & 26: Swakopmund
Founded in 1892 during the German colonial rule, the distinct
colonial character has been well preserved. Swakopmund has
several excellent restaurants, bars, coffee shops as well
as many arts and crafts shops selling Namibian rural art.
There are fine beaches to walk along as well as a great museum,
aquarium and galleries to visit.
Optional excursions include fishing trips, quad biking, sand
boarding, skydiving, desert flights, water sports, golf and
4WD hire. Accommodation will be in dormitories. Upgrades are
available.
(B included both days)
DAY 27: Swakopmund to Sesreim
Leaving Swakopmund we head south and drive past Walvis Bay
along the Atlantic Ocean on route to Sesreim. A short distance
away is Sossusvlei, surrounded by a dramatic sea of sand dunes
reputed to be the highest in the world. Magnificent views
of the desert can be seen from the top of the dunes, some
over 300m high. The afternoon will be spent exploring this
amazing area.
An optional and must do excursion is to walk in this area
with the highly specialised local guides of Sossus on Foot.
The guide will bring the amazing history, geology, flora,
fauna and cultural legacy of the Bushman to you. Tonight we
will view the sunset from the top of Dune 45 – a truly
memorable experience. (B,L,D)
DAY 28:Sesriem to Fish River Canyon
After watching the sunrise across this beautiful area we leave the serenity of the dunes and head south to the Fish River Canyon. At 161 km long, 27 km wide and about 550 m deep, it’s the second largest canyon in the world. The outer canyon was formed by tectonic activity, while the erosion of the Fish River formed the inner canyon. A road follows the eastern rim, giving us access to several viewing points from where we can take in the spectacular vistas. (B,L,D)
DAY 29: Fish River Canyon to Orange River (South Africa)
This morning we continue south, where, after a short drive, we reach the Orange River - the natural land border between Namibia and South Africa. We camp at a beautiful campsite on the South African bank of the river. This afternoon we have the option of a half-day canoe trip on the beautiful Orange River, affording us the opportunity of some bird watching or just a scenic and relaxing paddle. (B,L,D)
DAY 30: Orange River to Cederberg
An early morning start see us travel south through the Richtersveld before reaching the region known as Namaqualand, well known for its prolific display of Namaqua wildflowers that occur each spring. We spend tonight in a picturesque campsite surrounded by local wine farms. We have the opportunity to sample some of the nectar of the gods or to explore the surrounding beautiful Cederberg Mountains.
(B, L, D)
DAY 31: Cederberg to Cape Town
We leave the scenic Cederberg area and travel south towards Cape Town. We travel through the rich fruit growing area of Citrusdal before crossing the Piketberg Pass to the Cape’s wine growing regions. Our first sighting of the Mother’s City Table Mountain across Table Bay means we’ve reached our final destination. Tonight’s accommodation is in dormitories in one of Cape Town’s best loved hostels. (B,L,)
Day 32: Cape Town
This morning your trip will end. Please note that if you wish
to partake in the many activities offered in and around Cape
Town we recommend that you spend a few extra days post your
tour. Accommodation can be arranged though your travel agent
or the African Budget Safaris office.
Optional Excursion:
Night Drive in Kruger US$45
Victoria Falls National Park US$20
Chobe National Park Game Drive US$35
Okavango Delta with Mokoro’s (3 days) US$150
Scenic Flight over the Okavango Delta US$70
Sossusvlei Desert Walk US$35
Canoeing on Orange River US$25
(Prices subject to change)
Please note: This itinerary should be used as a guide only
and may vary from day to day depending on road conditions,
weather, political situations, and group decisions. Due to
new tourism laws in some of the countries we operate in there
may be a truck and crew change during the trip. All prices
& Local Payments are subject to change with prior notice.
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