Northern Safari

ABOUT THIS TRIP

With the Kruger Park, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park and the iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, the north of South Africa has the largest and most famous Big Five national parks in the country and therefore offers the best safari experiences. But the scenic highlights of the Panorama Route at the transition between the Highveld (plateau of Johannesburg) and the Lowveld (lowlands towards Mozambique) are also breathtaking.

Our chauffeur-driven tours are the cheaper alternative to privately guided tours. They can also be started daily and are as individual as rental car tours, with the difference that you don't have to drive yourself. Private English-speaking transfers take you from station to station where you can take part in English-speaking activities and excursions. Our chauffeur-driven tours can start from two people, but are also ideal for larger groups (e.g. families, friends) who want to keep to themselves. We are happy to modify this tour itinerary according to your individual wishes. Please contact us for your personalized offer. We recommend starting this tour in the South African winter from April to October.

OVERNIGHT STATIONS

• 2x Hoedspruit
• 2x Hazyview
• 1x Umhlanga
• 2x Hluhluwe
• 3x St. Lucia
• 1x Umhlanga

INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• 11x overnight stay in the Superior Plus category ****/*****
• 11x breakfast, 5x lunch, 6x dinner
• Regional flights according to program
• private transfers according to program
• four game drives in a private Big Five game reserve in Kruger Park
• Highlights Panorama Route
• four game drives in Hluhluwe Imfolozi Park
• Day game drive in iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Access to the airport lounge on the day of departure
• Comprehensive travel documents according to the booked tour itinerary
• Local offices with 24-hour hotline (German/English)
• Travel insurance certificate

NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

• Meals not mentioned
• not mentioned or optional activities
• Long-haul flights
• Entrance fees and conservation fees not mentioned
• other personal expenses, tips
• personal travel insurance
• Continuous tour guide

DAY 1: JOHANNESBURG

ONEWAY FLIGHT TO HOEDSPRUIT

A domestic or regional flight is the fastest and most convenient way to cover longer distances in southern Africa. Thanks to various competitors, there is a dense network of scheduled flights to a total of more than 25 airports. All local airlines fly with modern aircraft that meet the highest safety standards and are of course regularly maintained, just like in Europe.

The flight is operated in Economy Class. Depending on the airline, only one piece of checked baggage weighing 20kg to 23kg and one piece of hand baggage are permitted per person. You will receive details with your travel documents. Additional baggage, seat reservations and other services can be booked at very reasonable prices. We recommend arriving at international airports such as Windhoek, Victoria Falls, Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town at least two hours before departure; at smaller regional airports, 90 minutes is sufficient.

DAY 1: HOEDSPRUIT

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO KARONGWE

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 1 TO DAY 3:

HOEDSPRUIT

Your destination is the private Karongwe Game Reserve in Kruger National Park, which is home to the Big Five as well as all other African wildlife. In contrast to the state-run Kruger Park, only overnight guests have access to the private reserves. These are therefore much better suited to a short stay for unique game viewing. The small lodges also offer a very personal atmosphere. Specially trained rangers ensure a first-class nature experience.

The exclusive Becks Safari Lodge is the flagship of the Karongwe Game Reserve and consists of only ten spacious and detached safari suites, which combine luxury with modern design and face the Makhutswi River or a waterhole. The suites have a shower/WC with separate bathtub, air conditioning, tea/coffee making facilities, a minibar, a mosquito net over the bed, a safe and a veranda with an outdoor shower and seating. The lodge offers an oversized infinity pool with viewing deck, a lounge, a bar, a restaurant, a boma (traditional campfire dining area) and free Wi-Fi.

For each overnight stay you take part in two guided game drives in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast.

BECKS SAFARI LODGE (LUXURY SUITE)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND DRINKS AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 3: HOEDSPRUIT

HOEDSPRUIT TO HAZYVIEW VIA PANORAMA ROUTE

On the drive from Hoedspruit to Hazyview, you will discover the highlights of the Panorama Route. Of course, God's Window and the world-famous Blyde River Canyon are on the program, including breathtaking views of the Three Rondawels and the Lowveld. In the cozy little town of Graskop, you have the option of visiting the Graskop Gorge. The region is known for its countless waterfalls, some of which you will also visit.

You will be picked up at your lodge in the private game reserve at 08:00 (please note the exact pick-up time in your tour book). You will arrive at your accommodation in Hazyview at around 5 pm. Entrance fees for the Panorama Route attractions are included in the price, meals and the visit to Graskop Gorge will be paid by you on the spot if required. The tour language is English and the tour can be conducted with additional people. The tour takes place in a closed vehicle.

DAY 3 TO DAY 5:

HAZYVIEW

This region of Mpumalanga Province, where the highveld meets the lowveld, is characterized by breathtaking landscapes in the untouched African bush. From here you can easily experience the highlights of the Panorama Route on a round trip: God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, the Blyde River Canyon and the Three Rondavels, the Berlin and Lone Creek Falls, the former gold mining town of Pilgrims Rest, the Mac Mac Pools and much more.

The upscale accommodation The Zarafa is located in the middle of beautiful bushveld near Hazyview, very close to the Kruger Park and the attractions of the Panorama Route. You stay in one of five private Asian-style villas, which are equipped with a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a minibar, a TV, a safe, a tea/coffee maker, a lounge area with a fireplace and an outdoor terrace with a private plunge pool and views of the natural surroundings. One villa has two separate bedrooms. The accommodation offers a restaurant, a bar, a spa area (for a fee) and free WiFi.

THE ZARAFA (ONE BEDROOM VILLA)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH HALF BOARD

DAY 4: HAZYVIEW

KRUGER PARK AFTERNOON DRIVE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 135 € PER PERSON

You will take part in an afternoon game drive in an open off-road vehicle in the national Kruger Park. You will prefer to stay in the southern part of the park, as this is where the animal population is densest. Your professional ranger will bring you very close to the animals, a first-class safari experience. The park is home to more than 150 different mammals including the so-called "Big Five", i.e. lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo. Over 500 different bird species as well as many reptiles and amphibians make the Kruger Park the ultimate safari experience.

Depending on the time of year, you will be picked up at your accommodation around 13:00 (please note the pick-up time in your tour book). The safari takes about four to five hours, after which you will be dropped off at your accommodation. Conservation fees for the Kruger Park are included in the price. The tour language is English and the tour is conducted with other people. The safari takes place in an open off-road vehicle. The transfer to and from the Kruger Park can be done in closed vehicles.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 5: WHITE RIVER

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO NELSPRUIT AIRPORT

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 5: NELSPRUIT

ONEWAY FLIGHT TO DURBAN

A domestic or regional flight is the fastest and most convenient way to cover longer distances in southern Africa. Thanks to various competitors, there is a dense network of scheduled flights to a total of more than 25 airports. All local airlines fly with modern aircraft that meet the highest safety standards and are of course regularly maintained, just like in Europe.

The flight is operated in Economy Class. Depending on the airline, only one piece of checked baggage weighing 20kg to 23kg and one piece of hand baggage are permitted per person. You will receive details with your travel documents. Additional baggage, seat reservations and other services can be booked at very reasonable prices. We recommend arriving at international airports such as Windhoek, Victoria Falls, Johannesburg, Durban and Cape Town at least two hours before departure; at smaller regional airports, 90 minutes is sufficient.

DAY 5: DURBAN

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO UMHLANGA

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 5 TO DAY 6:

UMHLANGA

Continue to the metropolitan area of the lively metropolis of Durban. Visit the colorful markets or simply relax on one of the many excellent city beaches on the warm Indian Ocean, which invites you to swim here all year round. It is also worth visiting uShaka Marine World, a large aquarium and amusement park with stores and restaurants. The Moses Mabhida Stadium, inaugurated in 2010 for the World Cup, has become a tourist attraction.

The luxurious Teremok Lodge is located in the quiet suburb of Umhlanga, just a few meters from the sea with a great view of the subtropical nature. The beach with the famous lighthouse, stores and restaurants are all within walking distance. The eight suites are individually furnished and all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a coffee/tea maker, a TV, a minibar, a safe and a balcony or veranda. The accommodation has a pool with sun loungers, a subtropical garden, a lounge, a bar and a spa area (for a fee).

TEREMOK MARINE (SUITE)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 6: UMHLANGA

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO HLUHLUWE

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 6 TO DAY 8:

HLUHLUWE

Your next destination is the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, which is divided into the northern Hluhluwe section and the southern Imfolozi section. The two rivers of the same name gave the park its name. The park is home to the Big Five, i.e. elephants, lions, leopards, rhinos and buffalo, as well as many other African wild animals. The rhino population in particular is larger here than anywhere else in the world. With over 20000 hectares of rolling hills and open savannah, the park is one of the most beautiful state game reserves in South Africa.

The luxurious Rhino Ridge Safari Lodge is the only private lodge in the Hluhluwe section of the park and offers breathtaking views over the African bush. The lodge has an outdoor pool, sun deck, fire pit, bar, restaurant and spa area (for a fee). The 16 modern rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a fan, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, a safe, a private outdoor deck and free Wi-Fi. The Family Rooms have two separate bedrooms, each with its own bathroom/WC. The Luxury Bush Villas have an additional lounge area with fireplace and a larger outdoor deck. The Honeymoon Bush Villas also offer a private plunge pool on the outside deck.

You take part in two guided game drives per night in an open off-road vehicle (English-speaking, participation with other people), which take place in the afternoon before dinner and in the morning before breakfast. You pay the entrance fees (conservation fees) on site.

RHINO RIDGE SAFARI LODGE (LUXURY BUSH VILLA)

2X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH FULL BOARD AND 4 ACTIVITIES

DAY 8: HLUHLUWE

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO ST. LUCIA

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 8 TO DAY 11:

ST. LUCIA

Your destination is the small town of St. Lucia in northern KwaZulu-Natal. This is the ideal starting point for excursions in the surrounding area. Take a boat trip to the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and discover hippos, crocodiles and unique birdlife. The Eastern Shore Section with Cape Vidal is a unique nature retreat with a real bush & beach feeling between the ocean and the evergreen hinterland, which is even home to three of the Big Five. The beautiful beach of St. Lucia with subtropical water temperatures invites you to swim all year round. An excursion to the famous Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the oldest and perhaps most beautiful game reserve in South Africa with its Big Five, is also an absolute highlight.

The modern Serene Estate Boutique Guest House is located on the outskirts of St. Lucia, overlooking the subtropical landscape of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. The town center with restaurants and stores as well as the beach are within walking distance. The guest house impresses with its minimalist architecture, which nevertheless blends into the landscape. Bright colors and lighting effects were used to create the African ambience. The five rooms have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a fan, a minibar, a TV, a safe, a tea/coffee maker and free WiFi. The Garden Rooms are approximately 35 square meters in size and have a private veranda. The Parkside Suites are approximately 50sqm and offer a private balcony overlooking the Wetland Park. The guest house has a large pool, a modern bright garden and a cozy lounge area.

SERENE ESTATE (LUXURY PARKSIDE SUITE)

3X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 9: ST. LUCIA

CAPE VIDAL BEACH AND BUSH EXPERIENCE

The Eastern Shore Section of iSimangaliso Wetland Park offers a unique beach and bush experience. This unique evergreen sanctuary is home to hippos, elephants, rhinos, buffalos, antelopes, zebras and impressive birdlife and offers one of the most beautiful beaches in the area at Cape Vidal. As only a certain number of guests are granted access to this part of the Wetlands each day, you usually have the beautiful surroundings all to yourself. Also included is a snorkeling trip to discover the interesting underwater world of the Indian Ocean, as well as a traditional bush lunch.

You will be picked up at your accommodation at 8:00 am and dropped off there again in the afternoon. The tour language is English. The tour takes place in an open off-road vehicle. A maximum of ten people take part in this tour. Conservation fees, snorkeling equipment and lunch are included in the price.

DAY 10: ST. LUCIA

WHALE WATCHING BOAT TRIP

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 140 € PER PERSON

From June to November, you have the best chance of spotting right whales and humpback whales in St. Lucia. You can get within 50 meters of these gigantic marine mammals by boat. An experience that no one should miss. If you are lucky, you may also spot dolphins, penguins and seals during the trip.

The boat trip on the sea takes about two hours, an additional hour is required for arrival and departure. If it is not possible to start in St. Lucia, the whale watching tour can start in Richards Bay, including the journey and boat trip, the tour takes around 5 hours (English-speaking, with additional people).

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 10: ST. LUCIA

ISIMANGALISO SUNSET DRIVE

OPTIONALLY BOOKABLE FROM 40 € PER PERSON

There is something magical about a sunset in iSimangaliso Wetland Park. In the cooler evening hours, the animals become active again and you have a good chance of spotting leopards, buffalo, hyenas, elephants, rhinos, hippos, zebras, warthogs and numerous species of antelope.

This game drive takes place in an open off-road vehicle and lasts around two and a half hours (English-speaking, conducted with additional persons). You will be picked up at your accommodation at 4 pm and dropped off there afterwards. Conservation fees are included in the price. Please remember to bring a jacket or sweater, as the game drives can get quite chilly in the evenings - even in the South African summer.

This service can be booked for an additional charge.

DAY 11: ST. LUCIA

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO UMHLANGA

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 11 TO DAY 12:

UMHLANGA

Continue to the metropolitan area of the lively metropolis of Durban. Visit the colorful markets or simply relax on one of the many excellent city beaches on the warm Indian Ocean, which invites you to swim here all year round. It is also worth visiting uShaka Marine World, a large aquarium and amusement park with stores and restaurants. The Moses Mabhida Stadium, inaugurated in 2010 for the World Cup, has become a tourist attraction.

The luxurious Teremok Lodge is located in the quiet suburb of Umhlanga, just a few meters from the sea with a great view of the subtropical nature. The beach with the famous lighthouse, stores and restaurants are all within walking distance. The eight suites are individually furnished and all have a bathroom/WC, air conditioning, a coffee/tea maker, a TV, a minibar, a safe and a balcony or veranda. The accommodation has a pool with sun loungers, a subtropical garden, a lounge, a bar and a spa area (for a fee).

TEREMOK MARINE (SUITE)

1X OVERNIGHT STAY WITH BREAKFAST

DAY 12: UMHLANGA

ONEWAY TRANSFER TO DURBAN AIRPORT

This private transfer is operated by a qualified English-speaking driver. The vehicle is air-conditioned and corresponds to your private group size, there are no other passengers. The transfer company has all the necessary licenses and insurance for its vehicles and drivers to guarantee legal passenger transportation (no Uber or similar).

In the case of a transfer from your accommodation, you will be picked up at the entrance of your guesthouse, lodge or hotel at the agreed time. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation or at the airport.

For transfers from the airport, you will be met personally in the arrivals hall. Please look out for a person carrying a sign with your name on it. If an explicit pick-up point or meeting point is mentioned in your tour book, please go there. You will be driven to your destination and dropped off at your accommodation.

DAY 12: DURBAN

INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT LOUNGE

As an SA Travel customer, you are something very special and enjoy the comfort that otherwise only Business or First Class travelers can enjoy. Take advantage of this wonderful opportunity to escape the hustle and bustle at the airport on the day of departure and keep your vacation relaxation going for as long as possible.

You will have access to the airport lounge at your international departure airport in Durban. The lounge offers free drinks, snacks, newspapers, TV, WiFi and washing and shower facilities (facilities may vary depending on the lounge). You can use the lounge at the earliest three hours before your departure. Please note that lounge capacity is limited, especially at smaller airports, and access cannot always be guaranteed or there may be waiting times at the entrance.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION ABOUT THIS TRIP

All prices quoted are subject to availability before booking. Errors excepted. Alternative availability, seasonal overlaps or exchange rate fluctuations may lead to price changes. Please request your personal tour offer with your desired travel dates. This tour offer does not include flights (exception: regional flights in Southern Africa explicitly mentioned in the offer).

The child rate applies to one child under the age of 12 staying in their parents' room. One child under the age of two stays free of charge. For children aged 12 and over, the adult rate generally applies. Not all accommodation allows children of all ages.

We recommend that you take out travel cancellation insurance and travel health insurance to cover the costs of assistance, including repatriation in the event of accident, illness or death. We can provide a corresponding offer on request.

A passport is required to enter the country. Depending on your nationality, you may need to apply for a visa in advance. Minors under the age of 18 may need to carry additional documents. We will inform you of the exact requirements before you book. Travelers who have stayed in an area at risk of yellow fever must provide proof of a yellow fever vaccination.

The regions around the Kruger Park, the Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park and eastern Eswatini are malaria endangered areas.

This trip is not suitable for people with reduced mobility. Please ask for suitable offers.

The organizer of this trip is South Africa Travel GmbH & Co. KG, Buddestraße 9, 33602 Bielefeld, Germany, Tel +49 521 33676880.

APPROXIMATE ADDITIONAL COSTS THAT ARE NOT INCLUDED IN THE PRICE

Long-haul flights to Southern Africa in Economy Class cost from EUR 900, while prices can be well over EUR 1000 in the high season. Flights in Premium Economy Class are available from 1500 EUR, in Business Class flights cost from 2500 EUR (per person for outward and return flights). All prices are average values depending on the airline and season. The actual prices at a given time depend on the number of bookings and may vary. Early booking is recommended, especially in the high season.

A light lunch costs around EUR 5 (small salad, soup) to EUR 8 (pizza, pasta, burger) per person, a dinner around EUR 9 (pizza, pasta, burger, large salad) to EUR 11 (steak, fish) to EUR 21 (three-course meal) per person. Coffee, tea, beer or soft drinks cost around EUR 1.60 per cup or glass. Prices may vary upwards or downwards depending on the region or type of restaurant.

Entrance fees to national parks cost between EUR 5 and EUR 25 per person per day, depending on the size and popularity of the park. Entrance fees to museums or other attractions cost between EUR 3 and EUR 20 per person. Children under the age of 12 usually pay half price.