Safari to South Africa & Beyond

Kick off from Johannesburg, South Africa and travel through South Africa and Swaziland, Namibia and Botswana, before ending this Southern African Safari in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

This 35-day Budget Camping Safari takes you through Southern Africa to highlights including:

• Kruger National Park & Addo National Park in South Africa
• Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary in Swaziland
• Drakensberg Mountains & Wild Coast's Coffee Bay
• Tsitikamma on the Garden Route & Cango Caves
• Cape Town & Cederberg Mountains in South Africa
• Fish River Canyon, Sesriem & Swakopmund in Namibia
• Namibia's Spitzkoppe, Cheetah Park & Etosha Park
• Okavango Delta & Chobe Park in Botswana
• The mighty Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe

Get the best of Southern Africa's mountains, desert and beaches on this affordable scenic and wildlife safari of a lifetime!

DAY 1: Johannesburg to Hazyview – South Africa (L / D)

This African Budget Safari departs from Johannesburg traveling into the Lowveld of South Africa to our overnight camp on the border of the famous Kruger National Park.

Our drive takes us through the southern part of the scenic Panorama Route – famous for its breathtaking views.

The safari camp is a short distance from Kruger Park’s Numbi Gate and is home to some African wildlife, including hippo, giraffe, zebra and impala. In the evening we relax around the camp fire before embarking on our first game drive in Kruger Park tomorrow.

DAY 2: Kruger National Park – South Africa (B / L / D)

Today we explore the premier Kruger National Park on game viewing drives. This leading African game park covers an area of 21 497 km² (60 km wide and over 350 km long).

The vast Kruger Park conservation area is home to over 146 mammals, 500 bird, 114 reptile, 33 amphibian & 49 fish species. Around 23 000 different types of plants have also been recorded in this wilderness area. 

We spend the day driving through Kruger Park in South Africa in search of the abundance of wildlife inhabiting the game reserve, stopping off at view points as we explore. 

DAY 3: Hazyview to Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary – Swaziland (B / L / D)

We stop off for supplies and continue to the mountainous Kingdom of Swaziland, leaving the bushveld of South Africa behind.

Completing border formalities we then cross into landlocked Swaziland tucked away between South Africa and Mozambique. As we drive up into Swaziland we get to admire the panoramic vistas over its beautiful hills and rural villages.

Our first stop is at the well known Ngwenya Glass workshop run by a small group of Swazi craftsmen and women. Using their age-old artistry these local crafters bring to life enchanting interpretations of the animals and birds of Africa. Browse these Swazi creations in the showroom, to find a charming souvenir with its own personality. The items are all made from 100% recycled glass.

DAY 4: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary – Swaziland (B / L / D)

On day four of this South Africa Safari & Beyond we explore the Mlilwane Reserve enjoying some of the activities available.

Activities at Milwane Wildlife Sanctuary include walks, bicycle rides and horse riding excursions in the hills. Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary was the first of Swaziland’s wildlife havens and is home to numerous antelope species and resident bird-life making it an ideal place to explore on foot, or by bicycle.

DAY 5: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary to St. Lucia – South Africa (B / L / D)

Our African Camping Safari proceeds south through Swaziland, journeying back into South Africa. We travel towards the town of St Lucia, on the edge of the diverse iSimangaliso Wetland Park.

This World Heritage site stretches along the northern KwaZulu-Natal coast for 220km's. St. Lucia town is nestled between the Indian Ocean and the unspoilt freshwater Estuary of this wetland area. The estuary of Greater St. Lucia is home to a wide variety of bird-life, plenty of resident hippos and crocodiles.

We explore the natural lagoon on a sunset boat cruise in this stunning setting, if time allows.

DAY 6: St. Lucia to the Drakensberg (B / L / D)

Travelling further south along South Africa's eastern coast of Kwazulu Natal, we veer inland to the Drakensberg Mountain Range. The highest mountain range in South Africa the Drakensberg mountains were named the ‘mountains of spears’ by early Dutch Settlers.

The impressive Drakensberg Mountains have long been a top favourite among hikers and nature lovers, as there are a variety of lovely view points and walking trails scattered along the base.

DAY 7: Drakensberg – South Africa (B / L / D)

Today we enjoy some of the leisure activities available in the southern Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa. You can explore the dragon-like mountains on foot, or on horseback and simply relax at the safari campsite.

DAY 8: Drakensberg to Coffee Bay (B / L / D)

Early this morning we hit the road, making our way out of the KwaZulu-Natal province and driving further south into the rugged Eastern Cape province.

Our Southern African Tour to Kruger, Swaziland, Drakensberg & the Garden Route crosses the former homeland of the Transkei.

We pass through scenic landscapes of rolling hills dotted with local villages, based on subsistence farming. Arriving at rustic Coffee Bay on the Wild Coast in the late afternoon, the evening is free for you to relax and unwind.

DAY 9: Coffee Bay – South Africa (B / L / D)

Discover Coffee Bay today making the most of the remote beaches of the Wild Coast. Beach hike to the famous ‘Hole in the Wall’ or take a surfing lesson with a Pro-Am World Title holder that still surfs competitively today.

Immerse yourself in Xhosa culture on a visit to the local village, or join one of the exciting Day Trips on offer in this rural area.

DAY 10: Coffee Bay to Addo Elephant Park – South Africa (B / L / D)

Back on the road today, we drive through the rural Eastern Cape leaving the Wild Coast behind. Our next safari destination is Addo Park, South Africa’s 3^rd largest National Park.

We venture into the Addo Elephant National Park on a game drive in search of its large elephant herds, lions, buffalo, black rhino, spotted hyena, leopard, zebra and a variety of antelope species. This Eastern Cape game park is also home to the unique, flightless Addo dung beetle, almost exclusively found in Addo Park.

DAYS 11 & 12: Addo Elephant Park to Tsitsikamma Park (B / L / D)

On day 11 of this Southern African Safari we get up early and head out on another game drive in Addo Park, taking advantage of the cool morning hours when many animals are stirring.

After game viewing in Addo we drive through the Eastern Cape into the picturesque Garden Route region and on to the Tsitsikamma National Park. We arrive at the scenic Tsitsikamma Park in the afternoon.  

This beautiful National Park covers a lush stretch of indigenous forest stretching from the striking coastline to the Tsitsikamma Mountain Range. Some of South Africa’s most colourful birdlife and flora can be seen in this Garden Route wilderness area.

Tsitsikamma Park encompasses the stretch of natural forest alongside the coastline as well as a portion of the adjacent ocean. There are many walks and hikes worth exploring in the afternoon before we set up camp beside the crashing ocean.

Day 12 is free for you to explore the Nature Reserve and participate in some of the optional adventure activities available in this pretty Garden Route region. Plummet off the Bloukrans Bridge, the world’s highest commercial bungee jump to get your adrenalin pumping.

Experience black water tubing on the turbulent Storms River, or explore the indigenous forest on a tree top canopy zip-line tour for a bird's eye view. Or simply enjoy the coastal forest on one of the many hikes in Tsitsikamma National Park.

DAY 13: Tsitsikamma National Park to Oudtshoorn – South Africa (B / L / D)

We carry on driving along the scenic Garden Route, getting an early start today. We make our way to the Klein Karoo town of Oudtshoorn. Set between the Outeniqua & Swartberg Mountain Ranges, this Karoo town was once a trade centre for the ostrich feather industry.

In the afternoon we explore the two top highlights of Oudtshoorn – the famous Cango Caves and a working Ostrich Farm.

Cango Caves is the largest open cave formation in South Africa, offering visitors the chance to get inside the vast caverns and view the spectacular limestone formations. Explore the main cavern on a guided tour to see this underground cave system and learn how these folds of rock have formed over hundreds of years.

After visiting Cango Caves we head to one of Oudtshoorn’s famous Ostrich Farms to learn more about these giant flightless birds and even try riding an ostrich! 

DAY 14: Oudtshoorn to Cape Town – South Africa (B / L)

Today on this Safari to South Africa & Beyond we travel via the scenic Route 62 travelling to the “Mother City” of Cape Town.

We arrive in Cape Town in the afternoon and have the evening free to experience the vibrant night life of this charming city.

Eat out at one of the excellent restaurants along bustling Long Street, or roam around the V&A Waterfront at the harbour side!  

Take a cable car up Cape Town's iconic Table Mountain to watch the sun set over the picturesque city set on the coast of South Africa.

DAY 15: Cape Town to Cederberg Area – South Africa (L / D)

Our journey continues today, as we leave Cape Town and drive around Table Bay, offering panoramic views of Table Mountain and the city in the distance.

Making our way north from Cape Town we travel through the wheat growing region, known as the ‘bread basket’ of South Africa. 

We driver over the Piketberg Pass, dipping into the fertile fruit growing valley of the Olifants River, named after the vast Elephant herds that used to roam in this lush area.

The lovely campsite for tonight offers views over the pretty vineyards in this hilly area. In the afternoon you can take a stroll on the local wine farms, enjoying the beautiful views of the Cederberg Mountain range. You also have the chance to taste some of the nectar of the gods later in the afternoon.

Tonight we camp under star-studded African skies – the perfect way to end our relaxing day on safari in South Africa.

DAY 16: Cederberg Area to the Gariep River – South Africa (B / L / D)

Departing from the Cederberg Area we continue driving north into the Namaqualand region, best known for its gorgeous fields of Namaqua wildflowers that bloom in spring. 

Having passed through the open Namaqualand area we stop in the small town of Springbok, to stock up on supplies. Then we travel through the Richtersveld desert area and on to the Gariep River, forming a natural border between South Africa and Namibia.

We camp at a beautiful campsite on the banks of the Gariep River, in South Africa. This is South Africa's longest river, formerly known as the Orange River, with its source in the Drakensberg Mountains of Lesotho.

DAY 17: Gariep River to Fish River Canyon – Namibia (B / L / D)

On the morning of day 17 you have the option of taking a half-day canoe trip on the Gariep River. This is a relaxing canoe trip with some easy paddling and plenty of opportunities to enjoy bird watching from the water.

The optional canoe trip is followed by lunch, before we hit the road again. In the afternoon we cross into neighbouring Namibia on safari, heading to the nearby Fish River Canyon. 

This impressive Namibian Canyon is the second largest canyon in the world, at 161 km long, 27 km wide and about 550 m deep. The Fish River Canyon was formed by a combination of tectonic activity and river erosion over time.  

We follow the road along the eastern edge of the canyon, admiring the breathtaking views over this dramatic gorge. 

DAY 18: Fish River Canyon to Sesriem (B / L / D)

Today we rise and shine early, driving further north into the ancient Namib-Naukluft desert of Namibia, one of the world's oldest deserts. 

Our next overnight camp is at Sesriem, a convenient base for exploring the surrounding Namib Desert. Sossusvlei is a short drive away, and here we experience the many moods of Namibia's desert.

At Sossusvlei we witness the striking sea of towering red sand dunes iconic of Namibia. The Sossusvlei Dunes are said to be the highest dunes in the world, with some reaching over 300m high.

From the dune tops we get to marvel at the endless views over the vast desert landscapes and at night the Namib desert skies reveal a blanket of bright stars like nothing else on earth!

DAY 19: Sesriem to Solitaire (B / L / D)

Entering the Namib-Naukluft National Park we explore the dramatic desert terrain this morning. 

Starting with a striking sunrise from the top of Dune 45, we continue to the Sossusvlei Desert Region by shuttle bus. This drive takes us 5km's deeper into the Namib Desert to explore the Sossusvlei Dunes, with the option of taking a guided walk at an additional cost.

After exploring the shifting dunes and desert we leave the Namib-Naukluft Park, making our way to our next safari destination in Namibia, Solitaire. Treat yourself to a slice of apple crumble from the lone store in this small hamlet.

DAY 20: Solitaire to Swakopmund (B)

We have breakfast this morning, before setting off north-west to Walvis Bay, on the cool Atlantic Coastline of Namibia.

En route to Walvis Bay we cross the Tropic of Capricorn, before following the west coast to Swakopmund. Namibia’s prime holiday resort, Swakopmund, is where we spend the next three nights.

This is a great place to relax and have some fun - exploring the coastal town and participating in optional adventure activities. Our Swakopmund accommodation is in dormitories, but you have the option of upgrading to private rooms through your safari guide (depending on availability).

DAYS 21 & 22: Swakopmund – Namibia (B on both days)

Founded in 1892, Swakopmund still has a colonial German flavour today, especially visible in its architecture. Swakopmund has a variety of excellent coffee shops, restaurants and bars, as well as an array of arts and crafts stores where you can see Namibian curios. 

Walk along the fine beaches and promenade of Swakopmund, or visit the local museum, aquarium and art galleries. Alternatively you might like to get your adrenaline pumping with some of the exhilarating adventure activities available here.

Some of our fellow passengers may choose to end their African Safari in Swakopmund, while new passengers often join us for the remainder of our journey.

Optional excursions include sky diving, quad biking, sand boarding, scenic desert flights, dolphin cruises, fishing trips, golfing, horse riding and more. An activity briefing will be held on arrival in Swakopmund, the Adventure Capital of Namibia.

DAY 23: Swakopmund to Spitzkoppe – Namibia (B / L / D)

Onwards to Spitzkoppe, the ‘Matterhorn of Namibia’. 

Travelling further north and inland we head to the dramatic landscape of Spitzkoppe, a giant granite outcrop in an otherwise flat part of Namibia, scattered with rocky boulders.

The highest geological formation is about 1728 m high and is recognized as one of the most distinct natural landmarks in Namibia. Spitzkoppe is well known as a sacred site of the ancient San people, housing noteable rock paintings.

We camp in an area of Spitzkoppe run by the local community, offering knowledgeable guides for bush walks to the San Rock Art in the area (at an additional cost). There is time to explore the impressive terrain and visit the San rock art, or relax and admire the striking views. 

Our safari camp (no ablution facilities) is set in the remote bush under star-filled African skies.

DAY 24: Spitzkoppe to Cheetah Park (B / L / D)

Today we drive further north to the Otjitotongwe Cheetah Park where we meet the resident cheetahs and enjoy excellent wildlife photo opportunities!

The Cheetah Park is a private farm for conserving the cheetah population of Namibia.

Namibia has a high population of wild, free roaming cheetahs even though cheetahs are endangered in Africa. A number of local farmers have created a wildlife sanctuary for cheetahs that have been trapped, or injured in the area.

DAY 25: Cheetah Park to the Etosha National Park (B / L / D)

On day 25 we pause in Outjo to stock up on supplies, before driving to Etosha National Park, Namibia's premier game park.

Etosha Park covers around 20 000 km² of northern Namibia, located around the Etosha Pan teeming with wildlife, insects and birds. The extensive network of gravel roads in Etosha enables visitors to access some of the most remote areas of this top game park.

In the cooler hours of the day, after lunch, we embark on a game drive in the southern area of Etosha Park. Keeping an eye out for the roaming Oryx and Springbok antelopes, endemic to desert National Parks!

Tonight we camp just outside the Etosha Park, only 10kms from Anderson Gate. Take a refreshing dip in the pool or enjoy a sun downer on the camp's deck before dinner, followed by a laid-back evening at the interesting bar.

DAY 26: Etosha National Park – Namibia (B / L / D)

Crossing some 150 km of the Etosha Game Park, we pass through different types of vegetation as we drive, as well as the changing animal and bird life that these varying habitats support.

Enjoy a full day of game viewing in Etosha Park, admiring the African bush scenes and the rich variety of nature's creatures.

Our overnight camp, Namutoni, is set inside the northern part of the game park. After dinner you can head down to one of the nearby floodlit waterholes of Etosha for more game viewing. Here you can observe the wild animals as they come to quench their thirst in the evenings.

DAY 27: Etosha National Park to Divundu (B / L / D)

Leaving the unique Etosha Park today, we travel north-east to Namibia’s Caprivi Strip, heading to the fertile Kavango region near the northern border of Namibia. 

Stopping at the border town of Rundu to top up on supplieswe drive to our beautiful campsite located on the banks of the Kavango River. From riverside deck at camp we watch as the sun sets over the Kavango, looking out for the occasional hippo grazing on the lush camp lawns!

DAY 28: Divundu to Maun – Botswana (B / L / D)

We follow the course of the Kavango River south, before crossing into Botswana, one of Africa's best safari destinations!

Once in Botswana we head east along the Okavango River and on to the town of Maun, located on the southern edge of the watery Okavango Delta.

Maun is the gateway for trips into the Okavango Delta and serves as our base for exploring the untamed wetland system.

Tonight we prepare for our two night optional excursion into the wild Delta of Botswana. We suggest that you bring a smaller daypack on your trip to use on this short excursion.

Your safari leader will brief you on what is needed, and what to expect on your trip into the Delta. In the morning we will set off from Maun on our journey into this incredible wilderness area.

DAY 29: Maun to Okavango Delta (OPTIONAL) (B / L / D)

The Okavango Delta is famous for its rich variety of bird species and wild animals. This huge expanse of water is unique to Southern Africa being home to a plethora of bird life and animals and with its source in the Angolan highlands. The Delta runs down from the highlands spreading out over the plains where it empties into the Kalahari Desert.          

Day 29 of this Safari to South Africa & Beyond offers the chance to take a 3-Day and 2 Night drive and Mokoro trip into the Okavango Delta.

This optional excursion entails a drive from Maun up north for a couple of hours reaching the Mokoro polers' station. The dug out Mokoros are traditional canoes that local guides "pole" through the reeds and winding waterways. The guides locate a suitable site for camping and in the afternoon we set off on a game walk to get up close to the wilderness that is the Okavango Delta.

The alternative to the optional excursion exploring the Delta is to take it easy at the campsite in Maun, lazing by the swimming pool or playing a fun game of volleyball. The nearby crocodile farm also admits visitors from the campsite to witness the spectacle of feeding times. The driver and cook stay in Maun during the Okavango Delta excursion.

DAY 30: Okavango Delta – Botswana (B / L / D)

On day 30 of this Budget African Safari we will be based at the remote Delta camp. This day of rest is for relaxing and exploring the Okavango Delta, before we continue on our exciting safari adventures.

You can take a game walk, go swimming (water levels allowing), enjoy a Mokoro cruise and even try your hand at poling a mokoro on the waters. Or just sit back and soak up the sounds of unspoilt nature and take a nap at camp.

DAY 31: Okavango Delta to Maun (B / L / D)

Last chance to take a game walk in the Okavango Delta bush before we head back to Maun. We leave the Okavango by Mekoro and then transfer to a safari vehicle for the rest of the journey back to Maun.

Arriving in the early afternoon we have time for a fantastic optional scenic flight over the Delta at sunset.

DAY 32: Maun to Chobe National Park (B / L / D)

We travel east and then north to the Botswana town of Kasane where we set up camp on the banks of the Chobe River, before taking a boat cruise.

The Chobe River is home to hippos and other wildlife and forms a natural border between Botswana, Namibia and Zambia. Elephant, hippo and many bird species can be sighted from the boat while we watch another spectacular African sunset over the bush. Listen out for the hippos nearby!

DAY 33: Chobe National Park – Botswana (B / L / D)

Enjoy a sleep-in this morning or explore Kasane town, located on the banks of the Chobe River. 

After lunch we take another relaxing boat cruise on the Chobe River, the main source of water in Chobe National Park. Returning from our boat cruise we prepare for our overnight Chobe National Park trip.

Then we make our way into this top Botswana game reserve for our overnight experience in the African wilderness of Chobe National Park. Chobe Park is one of the premier game parks in Botswana, renowned for its large herds of migratory elephants. 

In the afternoon we explore Chobe on a game drive en route to our safari camp inside the game park. On the game viewing drive rare Sable and Roan Antelope are often sighted, keep an eye out for their destinct backward slanting horns, or watch the numerous swooping Lilac Breasted Rollers!

We spend the evening musing over our wildlife encounters in Chobe Park and listening to the night sounds of nearby wildlife, interspersed by the silence of the African bush.

Getting up early after our night in the Botswana bush, we set off on a morning game drive in search of Chobe's wildlife. After our rewarding game drive we pack up camp and travel back to the town of Kasane and on to Vic Falls.

DAY 34: Chobe National Park to Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe (Brunch)

Back at the Kasane camp we transfer to our safari truck and take the short drive to the Zimbabwe border. Border formalities behind us, we cover the last bit of ground to nearby Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe.

Named after the famous World Heritage Site and Waterfall, the town of Victoria Falls is located along the Zambezi River, surrounded by the Victoria Falls National Park. Our safari campsite is conveniently situated in the centre of Victoria Falls town, within walking distance of the local restaurants, shops and booking agents for adventure activities.

A 20 minute walk takes you to the entry point for viewing the spectacular Vic Falls, falling between Zimbabwe and Zambia. Victoria Falls, or Mosi-oa-Tunya (the Smoke that Thunders), was named by the explorer David Livingstone and is one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World.

Victoria Falls is the world's largest sheet of falling water at 1700 m wide and about 100 m high. An awesome and memorable sight on any African Safari!

A short adventure activities brief is followed by an afternoon of leisure for you to unwind at the campsite’s swimming pool, view the mighty Victoria Falls, or explore the sights and delights of Vic Falls town!

DAY 35: Victoria Falls – Zimbabwe (B)

After breakfast in Victoria Falls town, we exchange addresses and part ways, having experienced the African Safari Trip of a lifetime!

We recommend that you book a few extra days in Victoria Falls, after your Safari to South Africa & Beyond to take advantage of the fantastic Optional Adventure Activities at Victoria Falls.

Optional Excursions include elephant back safaris, horseback safaris, walking with lions, a visit to the crocodile ranch, boat cruises and golf at The Elephant Hills Resort.  Adrenalin junkies can bungee from Victoria Falls Bridge connecting Zimbabwe and Zambia or abseil down the Batoka Gorge - neither activity is for the faint hearted! 

Flights over Vic Falls in fixed wing, micro light and ultra light aircraft or helicopters provide an aerial perspective of this magnificent World Heritage Site, all year round. White water rafting on the Zambezi River is world class. In addition to the excitement of the Grade 5 rapids, there are the "floats," where there is time to admire the towering cliffs and occasional wildlife on the Zambezi riverbanks.

Please Note:

This African Budget Safari begins in Johannesburg, South Africa and travels through South Africa and Swaziland, Namibia and Botswana before ending in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe.

This camping trip departs from Johannesburg early on Sunday morning.  Should you wish to explore Johannesburg, an earlier arrival is recommended. Accommodation can be booked through African Budget Safaris. 

This itinerary should be used as a guide only and may vary from day to day depending on road & weather conditions, political situations and group decisions.

All prices & Local Payments are subject to change. Due to Tourism Laws in some of the countries we visit, there may be a truck and crew change during the trip.