PLEASE NOTE: We will be operating with a reduced staff on Friday 29 March for the Good Friday holiday (Canada), and back to full operation from April 1st. Wishing you all a safe and enjoyable weekend!

Book 24/7 via this website; contact 1800 665 3998 or [email protected] to reach out.

18 Day Southern Africa Tour

With Victoria Falls, Botswana & Eswatini
TOURCODE: SA2

Duration:
18 Days

Activity Level:
1

When To Go:
Feb, Sep, Oct, Nov

Countries Visited:
4

Arrive In / Depart From:
/

Max Group Size:
18

Tour Style:
Cultural

Price From:

  Overnight in: Johannesburg, Victoria Falls, Chobe National Park, Hazyview, Mbabane, St Lucia, Port Elizabeth, Knysna, Oudtshoorn, Cape Town

Discover the country's true culture with the help of experienced local guides.

  • Small group sizes to help escape the beaten path.
  • All-inclusive with top-rated restaurants and hotels.
RESERVE YOUR SPOT
Tour Overview
Tour Overview
ASK A QUESTION

Click the icons below for more info:
Countries Visited: 4 Activity Level: 1 Tour Style: Cultural

Landing in the vibrant cultural melting pot of Johannesburg in South Africa, we begin our Southern Africa Tour by extensively touring the township of Soweto, where we see affluent neighbourhoods, shanty-towns, the world's largest hospital and the former residences of Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela.

A region with a fascinating, and at times dubious, history, Soweto was the location of some of the more infamous events during the struggle against apartheid and is today brimming with sites of archaeological and historic interest.

Crossing the border into Zimbabwe, we head for one of the world's most magnificent natural sights at Victoria Falls, named after the then-reigning Queen of England by Scottish missionary David Livingstone. We get close to nature by rambling through dense rainforest around the Falls.

We return to South Africa for yet more exploration of this abundant natural wonderland by admiring exotic flora and teeming fauna - like leopards, cheetahs, elephants and zebras - in the country's largest nature reserve; Kruger National Park.

Into Eswatini (Swaziland), one of the last remaining kingdoms in Africa to get a taste of the rural life of the inhabitants of this country that was once dominated by colonialism.

Back in South Africa, we see the region that is the traditional home of the Zulu nation, gaze in awe at the 'Big Five' in the oldest conservation area in Africa and explore the many attractions in and around Cape Town, one of the world's most spectacularly located cities.

 


 

Dates & Prices
Dates & Prices

 

Prices below are per person, twin-sharing costs in US Dollars (USD). Pricing does not include airfare to/from the tour and any applicable taxes. For single supplement rates and taxes (if any), please refer to below Prices & Dates table. For general information on flights to/from the tour, click here.

 

Select a date below to reserve your spot:

 


The above prices are subject to an additional $274 for taxes/fees levied on flights that occur as part of the tour. The internal airfares ARE included (any exceptions are listed in red below), but we list the taxes separately on your invoice as they are beyond our control and can change at any time.

Optional Single Supplement: $1320 USD (number of singles limited).
This tour may require a mandatory single supplement charge of $670 if you join our share program and we are unable to pair you.

 


 

Full Itinerary
Full Itinerary

Download Itinerary



Day 1 Arrival in Johannesburg
Arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Johannesburg is South Africa's financial centre and largest city. This "Place of Gold", as the Sotho word for Gauteng Province suggests, harbours the gold fields of South Africa. No one could have imagined the repercussions when an unemployed miner found a stone bearing traces of gold in 1886. This seemingly insignificant event led to the discovery of the world's richest natural treasure trove. People flocked to the area from all ends of the earth and the open pastoral landscape changed almost overnight. Today in the "New South Africa," Johannesburg continues as the country's -- indeed the entire region's -- economic powerhouse and is evolving into a very vibrant cultural melting pot.

Overnight in Johannesburg (Sandton).

Included Meal(s): Dinner



Day 2 Johannesburg, South Africa - Fly to Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
Today we fly from South Africa to Zimbabwe where we will spend three nights next to one of the world's most spectacular natural sights, Victoria Falls.

This area has actually been inhabited for hundreds of thousands of years. The first known name of the falls was "Shongwe"; the current name did not come into being until the Scottish missionary and explorer David Livingstone was brought to the falls in 1855 and named them after Queen Victoria. The falls and the nearby town of Victoria Falls are on the mighty Zambezi River, the fourth longest in Africa, forming the border with neighbouring Zambia.

After settling into our hotel, we'll travel by road a short distance to the Zambezi River on which we will enjoy a scenic sunset cruise above the falls. The river here is wide and slow moving; be on the lookout for hippos, elephants, antelope, giraffe and myriad bird species for which the region is famous. After our cruise we will enjoy a lively demonstration of traditional African dancing and drumming before our evening meal.

NOTE: Due to logistical reasons, the order of Victoria Falls area sightseeing activities may vary at the discretion of your Tour Leader.

Overnight at Victoria Falls.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 3 Victoria Falls: Falls Tour & Leisure Time
Today we have a guided walking tour of Victoria Falls and adjacent national park.

Mosi-oa-Tunya ("The Smoke That Thunders") is one of the most amazing sights in the world: twice as high as Niagara Falls and several times longer. It took thousands of years of erosion for Victoria Falls to appear as and where it does now. During the Jurassic Period (150-200 million years ago), volcanic activity resulted in thick basalt deposits covering large parts of Southern Africa. As the lava cooled and solidified, cracks appeared in the hard basalt crust, which were filled with clay and lime. Erosion and the course of the mighty Zambezi River cut through these softer materials, forming the first of a series of waterfalls.

Our tour is conducted on level paved paths, much of which is shaded by the dense rainforest that exists due to spray from the falls. To walk to the farthest extent, with viewpoints along the way, is about one kilometre, the last part of which is without shade. We encourage you to go right to the dn, as the views are fantastic, including the best look at the famous Victoria Falls Bridge, the brainchild of Cecil Rhodes, part of his grand and unfulfilled Cape to Cairo railway scheme, even though he never visited the falls and died before construction of the bridge began.

The afternoon is yours to enjoy optional activities. You may relax by the pool, do some shopping in the village famous for local artisan crafts, travel to the Zambian side of the falls or even go sightseeing by micro-light aircraft or helicopter. Your Tour Leader can help plan your afternoon.

Overnight in Victoria Falls.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 4 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe: Day Trip to Chobe Park, Botswana
Today we make an early morning excursion into Botswana to visit Chobe National Park, located only 1.5 hours by road from Vic Falls. We complete Customs and Immigration formalities and continue with a fifteen-minute drive to the lodge that we will be using as a base for today's activities.

Our safari starts with a cruise on the Chobe River (shade and refreshments available) that takes us close to the waterfowl and wildlife on the river. Large flocks of birds, big pods of hippos and very large crocodiles can be viewed from the safety of your boat.

Our lunch (included today) is served back at the lodge overlooking the river.

After lunch we board open (covered) safari vehicles and head off into the park to view some of the 70,000 local elephants, buffalo herds, sable, wildebeest, giraffe, and with luck, some resident lion and hyena. We travel back to Zimbabwe, arriving at about 18:00.

Overnight in Victoria Falls (dinner on your own this evening).

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch



Day 5 Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe - Fly to Johannesburg, South Africa
Today we fly from Victoria Falls to Johannesburg (flight times are variable).

Overnight in Johannesburg (Sandton).

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 6 Johannesburg & Soweto
This morning we have a tour of the city of Soweto.

Soweto unto itself is actually one of the largest cities in Africa with an estimated population of two million. It also has one of the most dubious histories of any city in Africa, as it was the site of some of the more infamous events during the struggle against apartheid. The name "Soweto" simply stands for South Western Township, due to its location outside Johannesburg. It was here that thousands of black workers were forced to live in order to provide labour for the gold mines.

We will see the good, the bad, and the ugly of Soweto -- from affluent neighbourhoods to shanty towns, one of the world's largest hospital, Baragwanath; and the former homes of Soweto's Nobel Laureates, Desmond Tutu and Nelson Mandela. We also visit the Hector Pietersen memorial where we will learn of the 1976 Soweto Uprising.

A compelling highlight of our day is our visit to the extraordinarily powerful Apartheid Museum, an obligatory stop for visitors and residents alike. The large blown-up photographs, metal cages and numerous monitors with continuous replays of apartheid scenes will make you feel that you were in the townships in the 70s and 80s, dodging police bullets or teargas canisters, or marching with thousands of school children.

We'll also be able to have a panoramic view of central Johannesburg before circling back around to Sandton and our hotel.

Overnight in Johannesburg (Sandton).

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 7 Johannesburg - the 'Panoramic Route' - Hazyview
From Jo'burg we head off through the vast wilderness of Mpumalanga (formerly the Eastern Transvaal), the "Land of the Rising Mist". Along the way we travel from the vast grasslands of the High Veld, with its huge farms and ranches, down to the drier Low Veld region characterized by rocky hills and acacia scrub forest. This is an expansive landscape of mountains, valleys, rivers, waterfalls, primal forests, and colourful flora. Steeped in a history of pioneers and fortune-seekers, we will pass many Gold Rush towns and farming communities en route. Lydenburg ("town of suffering") established by Voortrekkers in 1849 lies at the bottom of Long Tom pass. This pass, named after the big gun used by the Afrikaners during the Anglo Boer War, is one of the most scenically dramatic in the country. It links Sabie on the escarpment with Lydenburg on the Drakensberg plateau.

A highlight of our sightseeing today is the spectacular Blyde River Canyon. This great escarpment is the kind of place where brochures and guide books run out of original adjectives to describe the fresh mountain scenery and magnificent panoramic views. The Blyde River Canyon is one of the most spectacular in Africa and its cliffs rise between 600-800 m (2,000-2,640 feet) from the river bed. At the "Three Rondavels viewpoint" is an unforgettable view of three huge rock spirals rising out of the far wall of the canyon. Their tops appear to have a hut-like rounded roof.

We also stop at the nearby Bourke's Luck Potholes, the result of decades of swirling eddies of water where the Treur River meets the Blyde River. The tumult has caused extensive water erosion over time; the result is a series of cylindrical rock sculptures that look as though they would be more comfortable on the moon.

From here we continue to Hazyview near Kruger National Park.

Overnight in Hazyview.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 8 Kruger National Park
Early this morning we enter South Africa's largest game reserve, Kruger National Park, named after Paul Kruger, the first to initiate the setting aside of this area as a reserve in the 1890s. Here we transfer to open safari vehicles and make a full-day excursion through the southern sector of this fascinating and beautiful park.

The Kruger Park is an enormous area of flat veld, broken by rivers and comprised of mixed vegetation and terrain. The park, officially founded in 1926, supports more species of wildlife than any other African reserve -- over 137 mammal species, 49 fish species, 112 reptile species, and nearly 500 bird species! With some luck we may see and photograph lion, leopard, cheetah, elephant, zebra and many other wonderful African animals.

We return to Hazyview in the late afternoon.

Overnight in Hazyview.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 9 Hazyview, South Africa - Mbabane, Eswatini (Swaziland)
We travel south today and enter the Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland), an independent country completely landlocked by South Africa and Mozambique, and smaller than Kruger Park! Naturally fortified by beautiful mountains, Eswatini remains one of the last kingdoms in Africa, a continent once dominated by colonialism. The pace of life here is relaxed and the lifestyle traditional; we will see rural people working their farms and tending their herds as we make our way to the vicinity of Mbabane, the capital city.

Before arriving at our hotel, we'll visit Ngwenya Glass, a glassblowing institution that got its start as a Swedish aid initiative in the 1980's. All of the glass art is made from 100% recycled glass and they support a number of conservation programmes locally.

Overnight in/near Mbabane.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 10 Mbabane, Eswatini - Mkuze Game Reserve, South Africa
This morning we depart our hotel and travel south, descending onto the Swazi Lowveld (lowlands), similar in climate and vegetation of the lowveld region we experienced in South Africa and Kruger Park in previous days. Before leaving the kingdom, we'll visit Swazi Candles, a candle making manufacturer both of both traditional parafin wax as well as 100% organic soya candle tea lights. The colourful, handmade product range also features wax encased LED lights, pure vegetable glycerine soaps, and marula oil bodybalm. Guests are invited to interact with the artisans as they work their magic.

We'll then travel through sugar cane plantations and the bustling commercial centre of Manzini, before crossing the border back into South Africa and the province of KwaZulu-Natal.
Our destination is Mkuze Game Reserve, which boast an exceptional variety of natural habitats: from the Eastern slopes of the Lebombo Mountains along its eastern boundary, to broad stretches of acacia savannah, swamps and a variety of woodlands and riverine forest. A rare type of sand forest also occurs in the reserve. It is renowned among ornithologists, with more than 420 different bird species on record. The Mkuze River curves along the game reserve's northern and eastern borders with a stretch of fig forest along its banks. Fish eagles swoop over the pans, snatching prey spotted from their perches in the fever trees.

Mkuze is overlooked by Ghost Mountain, previously a historic battle field. This mountain is said to be the tombs of the previous chiefs of the mountain and, according to legend, it has been the scene of a number of bloody fights. With its dramatic silhouette, in the shape of an old woman or witch head, it is not difficult to understand why the mountain is said to be haunted and to be the theatre of paranormal activities.

Overnight at Mkuze.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 11 Mkuze - Hluluwle-iMfolozi Game Reserve - Fly to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)
This morning we leave Mkuze and head to Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Park, the oldest proclaimed nature reserve in Africa. The park is known for its rich wildlife and conservation efforts; this is the only state-run park in KwaZulu-Natal where all of the "big five" wild animals can be found (elephant, rhino, lion, buffalo and leopard).

We continue by road to Durban, the 'Garden City' of South Africa. This area was opened up to white settlement by the Voortrekkers in the early 19th century, though the Portuguese were navigating the coast here as early as the late 15th century. Vasco da Gama was the first European to sail along this coast, giving it the name Natal to commemorate his Christmas Day arrival. In 1899 the British and the Boers went to war, but under reconciliation in 1910 formed the Union of South Africa with an agreement signed in what is now Durban's modern-day Main Post Office.

Flight time permitting, we may be able to drive through Durban for a quick look before heading to the airport for our flight to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)** South Africa's fifth largest city and the third largest port.

* Occasionally, due to ever-changing flight schedules, we may spend this night in Durban and take the early flight to Gqeberha tomorrow morning.

** In 2019, the Eastern Cape Geographical Names Committee recommended that Port Elizabeth be renamed Gqeberha, after the Xhosa and Southern Khoe name for the Baakens River that flows through the city. The pronunciation can be a bit tricky, as the "Q" represents a "click" sound with the tongue, then 'be' (like bare), and finally 'gha' (similar to the 'G' in Afrikaans + a short 'ah'). If it's easier, the town is also colloquially referred to as "PE."

Overnight in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth).

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 12 Gqeberha - 'The Garden Route' - Knysna OR George
This morning we travel along the world-famous 'Garden Route' toward Knysna. This route is parallel to the ocean and features lakes, mountains, beaches, and steep cliffs. This part of the garden route reminds one of the Oregon Coast (USA) with its sand dunes and great surf beaches. We'll make a lunch stop at Storm's River Mouth in the Tsitsikamma National Park, located on the shores of the Indian Ocean. You will have time to walk a short section of the famed Otter Trail, widely regarded as one of the finest in the world, stretching 41 km (25 mi - 5 days) from Storms River Mouth to Nature's Valley.

We continue to Knysna, a charming coastal town with tremendous water and mountain views and a laid-back lifestyle. The town was founded in 1817 by George Rex, reputed to be an illegitimate son of King George III. Known for its picturesque lagoon, the town was first established as a timber port. Today, Knysna is proud of its riviera atmosphere with many sidewalk cafes and shops.

Depending on limited accommodation availability in Knysna, we may overnight here in Knysna or continue a little further down the road to the town of George.

Overnight in Knysna or George.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 13 Knysna OR George - Mossel Bay - Oudtshoorn
This morning we travel down the coast to Mossel Bay. Portuguese explorer Bartolomeu Dias arrived here on February 3, 1488, thus proving to his sponsors that Africa had a southern tip; making it theoretically possible to sail from Europe to India. Our destination is the Dias Museum Complex, which marks the spot of the historical landing of Bartolomeu Dias. The 500 year old Post Office Tree, a national monument, can still be seen at the site, now harbouring a post box shaped as a shoe.

We then head inland and over the Outeniqua Mountains to the Little Karoo (Klein Karoo), a semi-arid yet fertile valley or depression surrounded by formidable mountain ranges. This is the ostrich capital of South Africa with thousands of these unusual birds dotting fields throughout the area. At the turn of the century ostrich feathers were in such demand that the fashion conscious paid a premium and feathered the nests of the barons who built magnificent mansions known as "Feather Palaces." This fine architecture can still be seen around the sedate and pleasant town of Oudtshoorn (pronounced 'Oats-horn'), our final destination.

Today we'll tour one of the ostrich "show farms" in the area before continuing to Oudtshoorn where we finish our day.

Overnight in Oudtshoorn.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 14 Oudtshoorn - Swellendam - Cape Town
From Oudtshoorn we travel through the Huis River Pass with its spectacular rock formations and the little farming town of Ladismith, named after the Spanish wife of British Cape Governor Sir Harry Smith. We cross our second mountain range of the day to arrive in the town of Swellendam, the third oldest colonial town in South Africa, established in 1745. The town has several buildings built in the charming Cape Dutch style, with characteristic whitewashed walls and black thatched roofs.

We then pass through a vast wheat growing and sheep farming area on our way to Cape Town.* In the late afternoon we cross the Hottentots Holland Mountains (our third range for the day), the centre of South Africa's apple growing region, to arrive in Cape Town, one of the world's most isolated and beautiful cities.

At some point during our time in Cape Town (weather dependent and may move elsewhere in our program), we will take a gondola trip to the top of Table Mountain, a sandstone plateau rising up above the city. The top is approximately 3km wide and at its highest point, Maclear's Beacon, rises to 1085m/3,580 ft. Over the centuries it has become one of South Africa's most famous landmarks. The steep cliffs and rocky outcrops of the mountain play home to a number of animals and approximately 1,470 species of plants -- more than the entire British Isles!

Overnight in Cape Town.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 15 Cape Town: Robben Island & City Tour
This morning we travel by boat to Robben Island for a guided tour of this historic site, formerly an infamous prison and today a museum. Our entire excursion will last about 3.5 hours and include a visit to the maximum security section where Apartheid era freedom fighters, including Nelson Mandela, were incarcerated. Robben Island provides a poignant reminder of how far South Africa has come since the dark days of apartheid and is a must-see for anyone heading to the Cape.

We'll also have a 'panoramic' look at the city centre of Cape Town, where we will see Parliament, City Hall, and the colourful Bo-Kaap area.

Overnight in Cape Town.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 16 The Cape Winelands
This morning we travel the short distance to Stellenbosch, South Africa's second oldest colonial settlement. After a little spin around the town, we'll park in the centre of town and allow some time for some independent, on-foot exploration. You will notice some of the finest examples of traditional Cape Dutch architecture along the town's famous oak-lined streets.

We continue to one of the area's many wineries for a cellar tour and tasting. The Cape vineyards were originated at Constantia by Jan van Riebeeck in 1685 and were advanced in 1688 by Hugenot refugees who brought their vine seedlings and skills with them from France. The Cape's different soils and climatic variations allow a wide variety of wines to be pressed. Along our route today we will see several wine estates with their delightful Cape Dutch houses, thatched roofs and decorative gables.

Today we include lunch at one of the area's wine estates. After lunch we'll continue our scenic drive through the area before heading back to Cape Town for dinner on your own. If weather permits, we'll attempt to head up Table Mountain upon return to the City Bowl.

Overnight in Cape Town.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Lunch



Day 17 Cape Town: the Cape Peninsula
Today we have the quintessential full-day tour of the Cape Town area: The Cape Peninsula.

Our tour takes us south along the Atlantic Seaboard where we have spectacular views of some of Cape Town's most affluent neighbourhoods and spectacular mountain and coastal scenery. We have a brief photo stop just before Camp's Bay, a pretty surf-side suburban community featuring the classic view of the town with the 'Twelve Apostles' peaks as a backdrop.

We continue south along a seaside-hugging route, through the town of Hout Bay and the famous Chapman's Peak Drive, one of the most spectacular marine drives anywhere in the world. The 9km route, with its 114 curves, skirts the rocky coastline of Chapman's Peak, the 593m high southerly extension of Constantia Berg.

Our next stop is the Cape of Good Hope Nature Reserve and Cape Point. The reserve is a wildflower, bird, and animal paradise on 77 sq km (30 sq miles) of the Cape Peninsula. The reserve is also home to eland, springbok, bontebok, baboon, and zebra. Within the reserve are Cape Point and the Cape of Good Hope, the most southwesterly point on the African continent.

After a break for lunch and free time at Cape Point, we head north again, stopping briefly at the Cape of Good Hope, before continuing back up the Indian Ocean side of the peninsula, passing through Simonstown, founded by the Dutch in 1741 as a naval depot and named for Simon van der Stel, governor of Cape Colony from 1679 to 1697. Today Simonstown is famous for its distinctly English architecture and atmosphere, and the southernmost train station on the continent. Depending on the season, we may stop at Boulders Beach to view a colony of South African penguins.

We complete our loop around the peninsula, past the well-watered eastern slopes of Table Mountain, Constantia, Bishop's Court and the campuses of the University of Cape Town. Here we pay a visit to the National Botanical Gardens of Kirstenbosch, with over 4,000 species of indigenous plants (2,600 are endemic to the Cape Peninsula). The garden's history dates back to the 1660s, when the first Dutch settlers arrived in the Cape. Governor Jan van Riebeeck planted a barrier of Wild Almonds to protect settlers' cattle from the original inhabitants of the area -- and part of this hedge is still in the garden!

Overnight in Cape Town.

Included Meal(s): Breakfast and Dinner



Day 18 Departure
Departure from Cape Town.

BON VOYAGE!

Included Meal(s): Breakfast

 


 

Trip Info
Trip Info

Inclusions
Breakfast and dinner daily, one lunch. All land transport (including internal air), accommodation, sightseeing and entrance fees for sites noted as 'visited' in the detailed itinerary.

Gratuities for drivers, local guides, restaurant staff, porters.

Airport transfers for land & air customers and for early arriving/late departing land & air customers who book both air and extra hotel nights through us.

Exclusions
International airfare to/from the tour.

Tour Leader gratuities, most lunches, drinks, personal items (phone, laundry, etc), international air and air taxes (if applicable), domestic air taxes, visa fees, and any excursions referenced as 'optional'. Airport transfers for Land Only customers. Optional trip cancellation insurance.

Our post-reservation trip notes offer further guidance on shopping, visas, an locally paid departure taxes.

Seasonality and Weather
This tour is offered throughout the year -- one of the charms of this part of the world is that no time is a bad time to visit.

Oct/Nov: Short-lived thunderstorms are a frequent occurrence, especially in the north. Victoria Falls are low.

Dec/Jan: Mid-summer and heat is a factor, especially in the north. Northern areas and game reserves are green. Vic Falls moderate.

Feb-April is late summer when days are usually hot with thunderstorms in the north and dry, cooler weather in the south. High water season at Vic Falls.

June/July coincides with "winter" in Southern Africa-warm and dry days and cool-cold nights in the northern regions. Game parks are dry and cool with short grasses that enhance game spotting. In the Cape weather conditions can be highly changeable with wind and rain possible. Medium water levels at Vic Falls.

Transport and Travel Conditions
Land transport provided via air-conditioned motor coach, the ultimate size of which may vary depending on group size (see 'Group Size'). We use open "safari" 4x4 vehicles in Chobe, Kruger, and Mkuze parks. We have some full-yet-scenic bus days, though, stops at points of interest and for the sake of comfort are frequent and roads are excellent. Our internal flights are provided by scheduled local carriers.

Our difficulty "Level 1" rating refers to the region's advanced overall infrastructure, high accommodation and hygiene standards, the comfort and convenience of our transport, and the lack of strenuous activity built into our program. That said, however, this is an ambitious tour with some full days of travel and activities, on-foot visits of sites, some of which are large and feature uneven surfaces, and the possibility of heat at some locations, and some early starts.

We will also often enjoy our dinners outside our hotels, which may mean short walks to dinner.

Though baggage handling is available at hotels and is included in your tour, you still need to be able to manage your own luggage, especially at airports.

Am I suitable for this tour? Please refer to our self-assessment form.

Accommodation
Well-located, air-conditioned, 3 & 4-star hotels with en suite toilet and bath throughout. Porter service is available throughout (see 'Inclusions'). Single rooms are limited and likely smaller than twins.

Please click on the "Map & Hotels" tab for more information.

Staff and Support
Tour Leader throughout, drivers, local guides at various locations.

Group Size
Maximum 18 plus Tour Leader

Tour Extensions
This tour is part of a series that can be upgraded to make for a longer trip. For more options, please refer to tour code/s:

26 Day Tanzania Tour & Southern Africa
FEB OCT
TOUR CODE: TZ3
Tour Overview
26 Day Kenya Tour & Southern Africa
SEP OCT
TOUR CODE: SA8
Tour Overview
29 Day Namibia Tour & Southern Africa
FEB SEP OCT
TOUR CODE: SA3
Tour Overview
32 Day Kenya Tour, Southern Africa & Tanzania
SEP OCT
TOUR CODE: SA4
Tour Overview
33 Day Kenya Tour, Tanzania & Southern Africa
JAN OCT
TOUR CODE: KT3
Tour Overview
37 Day Southern Africa Tour & East Africa
SEP OCT
TOUR CODE: SA7
Tour Overview

 


 

Map & Hotels
Map & Hotels

Regions visited: Southern Africa
Countries visited: South Africa; Zimbabwe; Botswana and Swaziland


*The red tour trail on the map does not represent the actual travel path.


The following is a list of sample hotels at some locations included on this tour. The hotels shown here are meant to provide a general sense of the standard of hotel we usually aim for; they are not necessarily confirmed for your chosen departure.


Garden Court Sandton City
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Johannesburg
Country: South Africa
Just moments from Sandton’s famous mall, adjacent to Nelson Mandela Square, and a 2-minute walk from the Sandton Convention Centre, the Garden Court Sandton City Hotel combines affordable rates and award-winning service ... an ideal city-centre location. Make yourself at home in one of 444 modern and relaxed en-suite rooms with air-conditioning, uncapped WiFi, DStv, city or garden views, a space to work, and a choice of queen or two double beds.
Read More
A'Zambezi River Lodge
4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation 4 Star Accommodation
Location: Victoria Falls
Country: Zimbabwe
A'Zambezi river lodge is the only hotel with a river frontage and jetty site in Victoria Falls. Imagine no more. The lodge is situated at Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe, approximately 25km from ... airport on the banks of the Zambezi river

The lodge consists of 83 thatched-covered rooms, which blend in perfectly with the lush green lawns. Azambezi river lodge is perfect for those who want to relax and unwind against the backdrop
Read More
Chobe Safari Lodge
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Chobe National Park
Country: Botswana
Each room is tastefully decorated and offers every comfort: air-conditioning, luxurious en-suite bath / shower facilities, and satellite TV. The pool area is directly adjacent to the Chobe River from which you ... enjoying river views as you keep cool.

Read More
Hazyview Sun Hotel
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Hazyview
Country: South Africa
On a hill away from the malaria risk area, surrounded by a 10-acre garden estate with an abundance of birdlife, our Hazyview Hotel enjoys year-round good weather and breathtaking views. The hotel’s ... well-appointed en-suite rooms are spacious and comfortable with air-conditioning, satellite TV, free unlimited WiFi and more.
Read More
Foresters Arms
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Mbabane
Country: Swaziland
Set in stunning mountain countryside, Foresters Arms Hotel is a short, scenic drive from the capital, Mbabane, the perfect base for exploring all the attractions of this majestic Kingdom. Dating from colonial ... this country hotel is a traditional haven of comfort and a place of great character and charm. Set within extensive, beautiful gardens rich in native flowers and trees, Foresters Arms offers exceptional accommodation, excellent food and a genuine caring & friendly service.
Read More
The Graywood Hotel
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Knysna
Country: South Africa
The Graywood Wing is centrally situated on the corner of Gray and Trotter Streets, across the road from the Log-Inn Hotel. In keeping with the character and spirit of the surrounding indigenous ... forest, the hotel enjoys beautiful woodwork throughout. The wood is complimented by courtyard gardens which feature a sparkling swimming pool suspended in a wooden sundeck.

An extensive collection of original railway and steam train memorabilia recall a bygone era, while our selection of historic photographs gives you deeper insight into Knysna’s locomotive past. Relax in the comfort of your room, refresh with a dip in the pool or sit back on the sun deck and surrounding gardens with a drink.
Read More
Protea Hotel Oudtshoorn Riempie Estate
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Oudtshoorn
Country: South Africa
Combining country charm with Protea Hotel’s superior standards, this hotel is situated in a farm-like setting with well-appointed thatched rondawels and is only 20 minutes away from the Cango Caves. Enjoy the ... that Oudtshoorn has to offer from the comfortable and beautiful Protea Hotel Riempie Estate—a cosy country atmosphere in a tranquil setting. The hotel is near the exotic crocodile and ostrich farms the town is famous for and is a short drive from the town’s central business district.

Read More
City Lodge Hotel Victoria & Alfred Waterfront
3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation 3 Star Accommodation
Location: Cape Town
Country: South Africa
Situated at the entrance of this iconic mixed-use precinct, the 207-room City Lodge Hotel Victoria and Alfred Waterfront allows guests easy access to this great Cape Town attraction, as well as the ... Town International Convention Centre and colourful Bo-Kaap neighbourhood. A nautical theme runs through the property in keeping with its seaside location.
Read More

 


 

Gallery

 


 

Frequently Asked Questions
ASK A QUESTION
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
ASK A QUESTION
01. What is the maximum number of participants on a trip?
Most of our tours carry a maximum of 18 participants; some tours (ie hiking tours) top out at 16. In the event that we do not achieve our minimum complement by our 60-day deadline, we may offer group members the option of paying a "small-group surcharge" as an alternative to cancellation. If all group members agree, we will confirm the trip at existing numbers; this surcharge is refundable in the event that we ultimately achieve our regular minimum. If the small group surcharge is not accepted, we will offer a refund of your deposit or a different trip of your choice.
02. Can I extend my tour either at the beginning or end? What about stopovers?
Yes, you can extend your tour either at the beginning or the end and we can book accommodation in our tour hotel. Stopovers are often permitted, depending on air routing. Stopovers usually carry a "stopover" fee levied by the airline.
03. How do I make a reservation? How and when do I pay?
The easiest way to make a reservation is via our website; during office hours, you are also more than welcome to contact us by telephone. A non-refundable deposit is payable at the time of booking; if a reservation is made within 60 days, full payment is required. Some trips require a larger deposit. If international airline bookings require a non-refundable payment in order to secure space or the lowest available fare, we will require an increase in deposit equal to the cost of the ticket(s). Early enrolment is always encouraged as group size is limited and some trips require greater preparation time. Once we have received your deposit, we will confirm your space and send you a confirmation package containing your trip itinerary, any visa/travel permit related documents, invoice, clothing and equipment recommendations, general information on your destination(s), and forms for you to complete, sign and return to us. Your air e-tickets (if applicable), final hotel list, final trip itinerary, and instructions on how to join your tour, will be sent approximately 2-3 weeks prior to departure.
04. What about cancellations, refunds, and transfers?
Please review our cancellation policy page for details.
05. I am a single who prefers my own room. What is a single supplement?
All of our tours have a single supplement for those who want to be guaranteed their own room at each location. This supplement is a reflection of the fact that most hotels around the world do not discount the regular twin-share rate for a room by 50% for only one person occupying a room. Most hotels will give a break on the price, but usually in the range of 25-30% of the twin-share rate. This difference, multiplied by each night, amounts to the single supplement. The conventional amount can also vary from country to country and some destinations are more expensive than others for single occupancy. In order to be "single friendly," the supplements we apply are not a profit centre for us and we do our best to keep them as reasonable as possible. On most tours we limit the number of singles available, not to be punitive, but rather because many hotels allow for only a limited number of singles; some smaller hotels at remote locations also have a limited number of single rooms available. Please note that most single rooms around the world are smaller than twin-share rooms and will likely have only one bed.
06. Do you have a shared accommodation program?
Yes! If you are single traveller and are willing to share, we will do our best to pair you with a same-gender roommate. On most of our tours, if we fail to pair you, we will absorb the single supplement fee and you will default to a single room at no extra charge. At some destinations, however, where single rooms are not significantly discounted, or not at all, we may apply a "mandatory" single in the event that we cannot find you a share partner. This is usually 50% of the usual supplement, but can be as much as 100%. If applicable, this proviso will be noted on each tour page on this website, on your invoice, and in our tour date/price book (available for download under "Resources").

 

What People are Saying
Robert O.
Silver Spring, MD - US
The safari drives were the highlights to me. The local guides were well informed and worked well with the tour leader. Our tour leader was excellent, he was always helpful and enthusiastic. He was very well informed.
Marion S.
Radium Hot Springs, BC - CA
We enjoyed the variety of excursions and events.The Highlights were the animal parks, museums and all sites in Cape Town. Excellent local guides. They were knowledgeable and each added their own perspective and insight. Appreciated their candid conversation. Excellent comfortable transportation. Excellent food and the restaurants were well chosen. We had the best tour leader we have ever had. We would seek to travel with him again. His welcoming personality was appreciated. He had such a balanced approach. Excellent choice of hotels. Above what we expected. Comfortable, clean and had everything we required. Excellent breakfasts. An excellent comprehensive holiday with lots of variety, history and a chance to see African animals in their natural habitat. My impression of South Africa has changed as I gained insight into the challenges since Apartheid. A profoundly beautiful country. I appreciated seeing it lush and green after lots of rain.
Gary B.
Osprey, FL - CA
Game drives were outstanding. A highlight was our 1st night in Zimbabwe and the water cruise at sunset... magical and a great way to start! We had 3 local guides and all were outstanding and very informative. Also became friends in a very short time. The buses used were comfortable and roomy. Our tour leader was very friendly and informative. Became a friend in 2+ weeks. His local knowledge was outstanding! Outstanding!!!
Jill C.
Vancouver - CA
Over the years, I have met several people who have highly recommended Adventures Abroad. I thoroughly enjoyed SA2 and your website will be my "go to page" when I consider future travel. The tour included a great variety of destinations and activities. I was very happy with all elements. I have travelled extensively and taken many tours. I think that the guide that was with us from Port Elizabeth to Cape Town, is outstanding and I would characterize him as the "best local guide ever". He informed us of all aspects of life in South Africa - he was very frank, knowledgable, informative, thoughtful, and entertaining. His contribution was a very valuable and very special element of my tour experience. The food on this tour exceeded my expectations. Our Adventures Abroad tour leader clearly knew a lot about food and the restaurants he chose for our dinners were all excellent. I was very pleased to be able to order what I wanted from the restaurant menus instead of eating from set menus. Throughout the trip our Tour Leader did an outstanding job. He was consistently knowledgable, informative, personable, and helpful. He has a great personality - warm, friendly, humorous, and positive. Bottom line - I would be delighted to travel with him again and I would highly recommend him to others.
John H.
Calgary - CA
One of the best. My highlights would be Chobe Park, Victoria Falls and Table Mountain. I enjoyed seeing the animals more than I expected. Our tour leader was always alert to possible glitches, and solves problems effectively and with humor. He had so much information at his fingertips, and has a good sense of time, and an understanding of his guests' preferences and tolerances. We had three local guides - Wengai, Walter and Dino. All were very knowledgeable and helpful, with great senses of humor. Excellent choices
Marlene C.
Spruce Grove - CA
I'm very impressed with my first trip with Adventures Abroad. So nice to have everything paid for up front and not have to come home to a big credit card bill. Also this is the first time I've had a tour where there's a tour leader plus local tour guides taking care of the group the entire time. So much attention! I really enjoyed the elephant ride in Zimbabwe which was an optional we had to purchase. It was very well organized and one of the highlights of our trip. There weren't any sightseeing elements that I thought were a waste of time. Evening meal plan exceeded my expectations. So much good food and you usually got to pick what you wanted by ordering off the menu. Chris (Tour Leader) was able to relate well to all the people on the tour. He was always with us and never seemed to have much time on his own. He dedicated himself 100% to the job.He kept everything going at a comfortable pace. Days were long but filled with so many activities that you never good bored.
Rose Marie G.
Edmonton - CA
Rate it as one of the best trips I have taken. All three local guides were pleasant, informative and friendly. I especially liked Dino periodically and frequently coming down the bus aisle and talked to each one personally to see if we were doing okay. We know he was really interested in us.Chris has truly the right personality for the job. Informative, openly pleasant and friendly.Chris is by far the best Tour Manager I have ever had. I have been on several vacations over the years and Chris tops the list. He was always pleasant and present. Dealt with any problems quickly. He has a wonderful sense of humour and has the ability to readily read and understand his clientele almost immediately.
Louise M.
Port Coquitlam, BC - CA
Enjoyed all of the excursions. Guides were all excellent. Transportation was excellent. Yes, the meal plan very much met my expectations. Our tour leader Peter was made for this job. He is very knowledgeable, Great personality, made things interesting, variety was great. They do not come any better than Peter. Hotels were excellent.
Harriet C.
Victoria, BC - CA
I enjoyed everything. All local guides were excellent. Food was excellent and plentiful. Our tour leader Peter was very personable and efficient. He was always available and had a good sense of humour. The hotels on this tour were excellent. Trip of a life time. Four days in Victoria Falls area was particularly stunning. Chobe was a highlight.
Ian C.
Victoria, BC - CA
All excursions were excellent and we packed a huge amount into the tour. All local guides were informative and very easy to get along with. Enjoyed all the guides we came into contact with. The meal plan was outstanding. Our tour leader Peter was very personable, approachable and knowledgeable. The hotels throughout this tour were excellent. An excellent experience. One I have already recommended to friends.
Tours you may also like
TOUR CODE: SA7
37 days from Johannesburg to Zanzibar
We spend over a month exploring the bounties of Southern and Eastern Africa on this…
TOUR CODE: AF1
33 days from Johannesburg to Maun
Southern African Circuit Tour from Adventures Abroad: The bustling streets of…
TOUR CODE: KT3
33 days from Nairobi to Cape Town
Nairobi, Kenya, is our entry point for our Kenya, Tanzania & Southern Africa tour, an…
TOUR CODE: SA4
32 days from Johannesburg to Arusha
Our Southern Africa, Kenya & Tanzania Tour begins in the gold capital of the world,…
TOUR CODE: SA3
29 days from Johannesburg to Windhoek
This exciting Southern Africa & Namibia Tour travels through five Southern African…
TOUR CODE: SA8
26 days from Johannesburg to Nairobi
One of the world's most dynamic and exciting cities in the world awaits us as we being…
TOUR CODE: TZ3
26 days from Nairobi to Cape Town
Nairobi, the capital of Kenya, is our first port of call on this 24-day explorative…
TOUR CODE: SA5
25 days from Johannesburg to Windhoek
Our South Africa & Namibia Tour begins in the capital of South Africa - Johannesburg -…
TOUR CODE: NA2
20 days from Windhoek to Maun
On our Namibia and Botswana tour we'll be venturing into the back of beyond and through…
TOUR CODE: SA1
14 days from Johannesburg to Cape Town
When we think of Africa, we think of safari and Kruger National Park is a destination…
TOUR CODE: NA1
12 days from Windhoek to Windhoek
This 12-day Namibia tour takes us along the dense streets of its capital city, Windhoek,…
Countries Visited: 4

South Africa; Zimbabwe; Botswana; Swaziland.
Activity Level: 1

No particular physical activity is involved other than town/city walks and short walks to dinners and sites of interest, some of which are large.
Tour Style: Cultural

These three- and four-star hotel-based, "soft adventure" trips concentrate on the culture, history, and natural attributes of our destination. Though there are no strenuous activities built into these tours, you need to be prepared for some full days with some early starts, plenty of walking on uneven surfaces through villages, cities and archaeological sites, and not a lot of "down time." Independence, reasonable fitness, and an ability to be steady on one's feet are critical in order for you to get the most out of these programs.
This website uses cookies to ensure you get the best experience on our website.
Learn more.

 

Got it