Secrets of the South

33 days - from $2795

This is a great five-week trip that travels through southern Africa, combining the 'Overland from Cape to Falls' and 'Waterfalls & Wildlife' safaris and journeying from Cape Town to Pretoria, near Johannesburg.

The lush mountain ranges, winelands and orchards of the Western Cape give way to the more desolate north, where the Gariep River cuts a green swathe as a natural border between South Africa and Namibia. The incredible natural beauty and diversity of Namibia is a real highlight of this journey, right from our first stop in Namibia - Fish River Canyon. From the size and majesty of this canyon to the breathtaking sand dunes of Namib-Naukluft National Park, you are sure to experience the true essence of Namibia. Swakopmund, the adrenalin-filled centre of Namibia provides a stark contrast to the surreal feel and spirit of remoteness found in Spitzkoppe. Continuing north, Namibia continues to impress with the beautiful scenery of Damaraland and the abundance of wildlife at Etosha National Park. Leaving Namibia through the fertile north gives a complete picture of the incredible natural diversity that this country offers each visitor.

The marvellous wetlands of the Okavango Delta in Botswana are truly spectacular and provide a great opportunity to experience true wilderness. From the delta we explore the game-rich areas of Chobe National Park and around the Chobe River. The awesome power of the Victoria Falls provides a fitting final view of the waterways of southern Africa.

Leaving behind the centre of activity that is Victoria Falls, we head off in search of Zimbabwe's wildlife! Animal-viewing opportunities abound at Hwange National Park, the country's premier game reserve. From Hwange we travel to Gweru where we get you up really close to the wildlife at Antelope Park, as this is the place where you walk with lions. Travelling south to Masvingo, Zimbabwe's rich history and culture unfurls before you as you experience the largest man-made structure in sub-Saharan Africa - the Great Zimbabwe Ruins. Watching the sunset at here provides a fitting climax to our time in Zimbabwe.

We re-enter South Africa to complete our safari with one last wildlife reserve - the big one - Kruger National Park! After two days game-viewing here, we then take in the beauty of Blyde River Canyon before finally reaching Pretoria/Johannesburg to end this brilliant and highlight-filled safari.

Highlights

• Cape Town
• Langa Township Tour
• Gariep (Orange) River
• Fish River Canyon
• Namib-Naukluft National Park
• Sesriem & Sossusvlei
• Deadvlei Bushman Walk
• Swakopmund
• Cape Cross
• Spitzkoppe
• Etosha National Park
• Okavango Delta
• Chobe National Park
• Livingstone (Victoria Falls)
• Victoria Falls
• Hwange National Park
• Antelope Park
• Walk with lions
• Great Zimbabwe Ruins
• Kruger National Park
• Blyde River Canyon

Itinerary:

Day 1 Cape Town2 Cape Town Township Tour - Cederburg3 Gariep (Orange) River4 Fish River Canyon5-6 Sesreim & Sossusvlei - Namib Naukluft National Park7-8 Swakopmund9 Cape Cross - Spitzkoppe10-12 Etosha National Park13-14 Rundu - Sepupa15-17 Okavango Delta18-19 Caprivi Strip - Chobe National Park20-22 Livingstone & Victoria Falls23-24 Hwange National Park25-26 Antelope Park - Gweru27-28 Great Zimbabwe Ruins - Tshipse Hot Springs29-30 Kruger National Park 31-33 Blyde River Canyon - Pretoria/Johannesburg

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 driver, safari guide and camp cook whilst on safari; local guides in the Okavango Delta, Chobe National Park, Hwange National Parks and the Great Zimbabwe Ruins; all park fees; all camping equipment; 28 nights camping, 2 nights bungalow, 1 night lodge, 1 night houseboat; transport in custom-built safari vehicle during safari, 4WD vehicles, mokoro, boats, on foot and by ferry.
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: Allow approximately US$100 for meals not included in itineray.
Valid From: 11 Jan 09
Notes: We travel in a custom-built safari vehicle that can take a maximum of 24 clients. There are large opening windows, providing unrestricted game viewing and photographic opportunities, and on-board we have useful reference books about the flora and fauna that you may encounter during your safari. The large dome tents are spacious and quick to erect with the sides covered in mosquito netting and foam mattresses provided to enable you to sleep in comfort. A comfortable folding chair is also supplied for each passenger. In addition, all communal camping equipment is carried on board together with on-board cool boxes. You need to bring your own sleeping bag and it is also recommended that you bring a pillow or purchase one locally for added comfort. A special feature of the safari is that in addition to our safari guide and professional driver we have a camp cook who plans, budgets and prepares all included meals. Please note there are no laundry services available whilst camping, but sometimes when we stay at a campsite for at least two consecutive nights, there may be the opportunity to do some hand-washing. This trip is a combination of the Overland from Cape to Falls and the Waterfalls and Wildlife tours. As a result some travellers may be departing the trip part way through and others joining. You may also experience a change of crew and vehicle in Livingstone. Gecko's strongly advises you to carry sufficient USD cash with you to cover your time in Zimbabwe. You will not be able to withdraw USD cash by any means once you have entered Zimbabwe (including use of ATMs, credit cards and travellers cheques) so please ensure you have sufficient money prior to your arrival for all your expenses including tourist visa, spending money and any optional activities you may choose to do in Victoria Falls. Road Conditions and Infrastructure in Africa Roads in Africa are often in very poor condition, which makes it hard on vehicles. Our vehicles are serviced regularly and are generally in good condition, but breakdowns can and do happen. The infrastructure in Africa is not always what we are used to and travelling on their roads can sometimes be very bumpy experiences. The travelling times indicated in our Trip Notes is just a rough guide and is dependent on various factors that may be outside our control, such as road conditions, weather and time spent at borders.
Starts/Ends: Cape Town to Pretoria / Johannesburg
Trip Reference: GASS