South Africa Explorer

18 days - from $1660

South Africa is a land of colour and contrasts and this adventure takes us right across the country from the Indian to Atlantic Ocean; mixing culture, wildlife, action and fascinating natural wonders in an journey packed full of highlights!

Our first encounter with the wildlife of southern Africa is in world-renowned Kruger National Park, which forms one of the largest wildlife sanctuaries in the world and offers some of the continent's best game-viewing. In Swaziland we meet local artisans skilled in the age-old tradition of glassblowing and spend time interacting with local people at a craft market, before for heading into Zululand to learn more of the customs and culture of the proud Zulu people. A full-day game drive in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park, in search of the endangered white rhino, and further game drives in Addo Elephant National Park ensure unforgettable experiences with Africa's wildlife! We walk amidst the beautiful Drakensberg Mountains to view the rock paintings of the San Bushmen and walk the beginning of the famous Otter Trail in Tsitsikamma National Park - the most renowned hiking trail in the country. We can choose from a range of adrenaline-fuelled activities to get our hearts racing or just kick back and relax on a glorious sandy beach and watch an African sunset. We explore pristine stretches of coast and seaside towns on the Garden Route, traverse our way through the underground wonderland of Cango Caves and get up close and personal to the giant ostrich. Making our way into the beautiful Western Cape, we sample the local produce that the region is famous for - wine! The vibrant and captivating city of Cape Town, cradled between the imposing Table Mountain and the expansive Atlantic Ocean, provides a fitting place to end a memorable adventure!

Highlights

• Addo Elephant National Park
• Cintsa East, the Wild Coast
• Explore Cape Town’s historic heart
• Greater Kruger National Park
• Hike in the Drakensberg Mountains
• Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park
• Lunch in Zululand
• Ride an ostrich, South Africa
• Swot up on Mandela
• The Three Rondavels, Blyde River Canyon
• Explore Swaziland’s craft markets
• Mlilwane Nature Sanctuary

Itinerary:

Day 1: Pretoria/Johannesburg2: Blyde River Canyon Region3-4: Kruger National Park5: Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (Swaziland)6: Zululand - St Lucia7: Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park8-9: Drakensberg Mountains10: Umtata - Nelson Mandela's birthplace11: Cintsa East (Wild Coast)12: Addo Elephant National Park13-14: Addo Elephant National Park - Tsitsikamma National Park15: Plettenberg Bay - Knysna - Wilderness National Park16: Oudtshoorn - Cango Caves17-18: Winelands - Cape Town

What's It Like?

Gecko's adventures offer authentic experiences and a genuine alternative to backpacking. Our trips are designed for younger travelers on a budget but do include the entrance fees to the ‘must see’ sights while not wasting your money on unnecessary frills. Itineraries utilize public transport and basic twin share accommodations in small locally owned hotels, the occasional multi-share, or simply floor space in a jungle or village hut. Many trips involve some physical activity, the occasional long traveling day and you will need to carry your own bags. On camping trips, meals are freshly prepared by our camp cook, but expect to put up and take down your tent, and assist with camp chores. On all trips we only use local tour leaders who are passionate about their homeland. This is travel, grassroots style - basic but rewarding.

Included: An experienced safari guide and camp cook whilst on safari; local specialist guide at the Cango Caves; all park fees; all camping equipment; 15 nights camping, 2 nights lodge; transport in custom-built safari vehicle during safari and on foot.
Not Included: International flights, local payment, arrival and departure transfers, airport/departure taxes, visas, pre-tour or post-tour accommodation, all other meals, drinks, sleeping bag, pillow, all optional additional tours or activities during free time, transfers outside of the tour program, travel insurance, tips and items of a personal nature, laundry and flights (unless specified).
Meals: 17 breakfasts, 16 lunches, 15 dinners
EquipmentIncluded: 02 Sep 10
Valid From: 11 Jan 08
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Johannesburg to Cape Town
Trip Reference: GASA