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

• Canoe the Okavango Delta
• The Chobe riverside, Chobe National Park, Botswana
• Dawn in Etosha National Park
• Sandboard the world’s biggest dunes, Namibia
• See (and smell) the seals at Cape Cross
• Sesriem Canyon
• Spend time with the San Bushmen, Namibia
• Sunrise at Sossusvlei Dunes
• Take the ultimate Namibia photo at Dead Vlei
• Explore Cape Town’s historic heart
• Greater Kruger National Park
• Strike it lucky in Pilgrim’s Rest, South Africa
• Swot up on Mandela
• The Three Rondavels, Blyde River Canyon
• Camp by the Great Zimbabwe ruins
• Overload the senses in Victoria Falls
• Walk with lions in Antelope Park, Zimbabwe
• Watch the watering hole, Hwange National Park

Itinerary:

Day 1-2: Cape Town - Township Tour - Cederberg3-4: Gariep (Orange) River - Fish River Canyon5-6: Sesriem & Sossusvlei - Namib-Naukluft National Park7-8: Swakopmund9: Cape Cross - Spitzkoppe10-12: Etosha National Park - Bushmanland13-14: Rundu - Sepupa15-17: Okavango Delta18-19: Caprivi Strip - Chobe National Park20-22: Livingstone & Victoria Falls23-24: Hwange National Park25-26: Antelope Park27-28: Great Zimbabwe Ruins - Tshipse Hot Springs29-30: Kruger National Park31: Blyde River Canyon32-33: Pilgrim's Rest - 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: 32 breakfasts, 27 lunches, 26 dinners
EquipmentIncluded: 02 Sep 10
Valid From: 11 Jan 09
Valid Until: 31 Dec 69
Starts/Ends: Cape Town to Johannesburg
Trip Reference: GASS