Mountains, Beaches, Wetlands, National Parks and Wildlife

Duration: 10 days

Destinations: Golden Gate National Park - Northern Drakensberg - Sani Pass (Lesotho)- Durban - iSimangaliso Wetland Park - Kruger National Park - Manyeleti Private Game Reserve

Budget: 3,500 € per person, based on 2pax travelling

Welcome to the Ultimate 10-Day Luxury Guided Tour & Safari: South Africa and Lesotho!

Embark on a remarkable journey through the breathtaking landscapes of South Africa and Lesotho, where adventure, luxury, and natural beauty merge to create an unforgettable experience. With Southern Cross Experiences (PTY) Ltd., the leading Specialised Safari-Company and Destination Management Company in Africa, every moment of your trip will be meticulously curated to ensure a seamless and extraordinary adventure.

During this 10-day tour, you'll have the opportunity to explore the mesmerizing wildlife destinations and national parks of South Africa and the hidden gem of Lesotho. Our team of dedicated, highly experienced staff will accompany you on this once-in-a-lifetime journey.

Your itinerary includes visits to the iconic Kruger National Park, the awe-inspiring Golden Gate National Park, the majestic Drakensberg, the rugged beauty of Hluhluwe Wetlands (UNESCO WHS), the captivating Kwa Zulu Beach Front, and the untouched wilderness of Lesotho.

Throughout your journey, indulge in 4* and 5* accommodations, where luxury and comfort meet the untamed wilderness. From elegant lodges to exclusive safari camps, each stay will be a testament to African hospitality and charm.

  • Nature & Landscapes90%90%
  • Wildlife40%40%
  • Activities80%80%
  • Food70%70%

Are you ready to embark on the safari of a lifetime? Look no further than Southern Cross Experiences, the ultimate destination for unrivaled safaris.Since the year 2000, we have established ourselves as one of Africa’s leading Specialised Safari-Companies, Destination Management Companies (DMC’s), and MICE Coordinators. Our expertise and dedication ensure that your journey to Africa’s best scenic wildlife destinations and National Parks is an extraordinary experience, combining luxury, adventure, relaxation, culinary delights, and affectionate service.

Highlights

1. Golden Gate National Park

Golden Gate National Park is known for its unique sandstone formations, breathtaking landscapes, and abundant wildlife. 

The park derives its name from the golden glow that the towering sandstone cliffs emit when they are illuminated by the sun. It is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including zebras, wildebeests, elands, and various antelope species.

2. Drakensberg Amphietheatre

The Drakensberg Amphitheatre is a stunning natural feature located in the Drakensberg Mountains in South Africa. It is one of the most iconic and picturesque sites in the country, attracting visitors from all over world The amphitheatre is characterized by its towering cliffs and rugged peaks, which create a breathtaking backdrop for hiking, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities.

3. Lesotho

Lesotho is a landlocked Kingdom located in southern Africa. It is known as the "Kingdom in the Sky" due to its high altitude and stunning mountainous landscapes. The country is famous for its traditional Basotho culture, which is characterized by unique music, dance, and clothing.

3. Umhlanga

Umhlanga is a popular coastal town located on the east coast of South Africa. Known for its beautiful beaches, upscale hotels, and vibrant nightlife, Umhlanga attracts tourists from all over the world. The town is also a popular residential area, with many people choosing to live here for its high quality of life and close proximity Durban.

4. iSimagaliso Wetland Park

Isimangaliso Wetland Park is a protected area and UNESCO World Heritage Site located in the province of KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa. The park covers a diverse range of ecosystems, including lakes, wetlands, coastal dunes, mangrove forests, and savannahs.

The name "Isimangaliso" means "miracle" or "wonder" in the local Zulu language, reflecting the park's exceptional natural beauty and ecological significance. It is recognized for its high biodiversity and unique landscapes, serving as a crucial habitat for numerous species, including a variety of bird species, as well as hippos, crocodiles, and various marine animals.

Day 1

Pretoria City Tour

A Pretoria city tour is a fantastic way to explore capital of South Africa and experience its unique attractions and rich history. From iconic landmarks such as the Union Buildings and Voortrekker Monument to beautiful parks, museums, and markets, there is something for everyone to enjoy.

During the tour, you can admire the stunning architecture and learn about the cultural diversity of Pretoria.

Additionally, a Pretoria city tour offers the opportunity to learn about the city's past and its role in South's struggle for freedom. You will visit the Freedom Park, which commemorates those who fought for democracy, and Apartheid Museum, which provides a deep understanding of South Africa's history.

You overnight at African Pride Irene County Lodge. Irene Country Lodge is a beautiful and luxurious hotel located in South Africa. Situated in the suburb of Irene, Pretoria, it offers a tranquil and picturesque setting for guests to relax and unwind. The lodge features stunning architecture and stylish decor, creating a sophisticated and inviting atmosphere.

Day 2

Drakensberg Amphitheatre

The Drakensberg Amphitheater is a breathtaking natural wonder located in the Drakensberg Mountain Range in South Africa. It is known for its dramatic cliffs and sheer rock faces, creating an impressive amphithe-like formation.

The Amphitheater is a popular destination for hikers and nature lovers, offering stunning of the surrounding landscape. The Tugela Falls, the world's second-highest waterfall is one of the highlights of this area. Visitors can enjoy various hiking trails that lead to the top of the cliffs, allowing them to admire the panoramic vistas.

The Drakensberg Amphitheater is not only a visual marvel but also holds historical and. It is home to various San rock art sites, showcasing the ancient rock paintings of the indigenous San people.

Overnight at The Cavern Resort & Spa. Theavern Resort & Spa offers a wide range of activities to suit every preference, from guided hikes and horseback riding to yoga and spa treatments. The resort also has spacious and comfortable accommodations, ensuring a restful stay for all guests.

Day 3

Golden Gate National Park

The park is named after the golden hues of the sandstone cliffs and rock formations that are particularly prominent during sunrise and sunset. The rugged landscape and scenic beauty make it a popular destination for nature lovers, hikers, and photographers. There are several hiking trails that allow visitors to explore the park and enjoy its natural wonders.

In addition to its geological features, the Golden Gate National Park is home to a variety of wildlife, including zebras, wildebeest, eland, and numerous bird species. Visitors can spot these animals while driving or hiking through the park.

Overnight at the Golden Gate Hotel & Chalets. The Golden Gate Hotel & Chalets is a popular accommodation option located in the heart of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

The hotel is known for its stunning views the surrounding mountains and the nearby Brandwag Buttress. Guests can enjoy hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the park, as well as spotting wildlife such as eland, zebra, and even rare vulture sightings.  The hotel also has a restaurant and bar on-site, serving delicious meals and refreshing drinks. Overall, the Golden Gate Hotel & Chalets is a great choice for nature lovers and those looking to experience the beauty of the Golden Gate Highlands National Park.

 

Day 4

Lesotho and Sani Pass

Sani Pass is a famous mountain pass located in the Drakensberg Mountains of Southern Africa, specifically in the border region between South Africa and Lesotho. It is considered one of the most challenging and breathtakingly scenic mountain passes in the world. Sani Pass is situated in the southern part of the Drakensberg Mountains, which form part of the border between South Africa and Lesotho.The pass reaches an elevation of 2,874 meters (9,429 feet) above sea level, making it the highest mountain pass in Southern Africa. The road is a steep and treacherous gravel track that winds up the mountainside, with hairpin bends, switchbacks, and sections of rough terrain. The journey along Lesotho and the Sani Pass offers stunning and panoramic views of the surrounding mountain landscapes. The road passes through rugged cliffs, deep valleys, and breathtaking vistas, providing an awe-inspiring experience for travelers. Due to its challenging nature, Sani Pass is accessible only by 4x4 vehicles. The steep gradients, sharp turns, and rough surfaces require a capable vehicle with good ground clearance. It is not recommended to attempt the pass in poor weather conditions. Overnight at the Sani Pass Premier Resort, only a few kilometers from the border post at the foot of Sani Pass.

 

Day 5

Durban/        Umhlanga

Umhlanga is a coastal town located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. It is a popular tourist destination known for its beautiful beaches, luxury accommodations, and vibrant atmosphere. Umhlanga is situated just north of Durban and is often considered a suburb of the city.

One of the main attractions in Umhlanga is its pristine coastline, which features golden sandy beaches and warm waters of the Indian Ocean. The most well-known beach in the area is Umhlanga Rocks Beach, which is popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports such as surfing and kiteboarding. The beach is lined with high-rise hotels, restaurants, and bars, offering visitors a range of amenities and entertainment options.

Day 6

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

iSimangaliso Wetland Park is a protected area located in the KwaZulu-Natal province of South Africa. It is a UNESCO World Heritage site and boasts a diverse range of ecosystems, including lakes, estuaries, beaches, dunes, and forests.

The park is home to a wide array of wildlife, including hippos, crocodiles, elephants, rhinos, and various species of birds. It is known for its stunning scenery and rich biodiversity.

Visitors to iSimangaliso Wetland Park can enjoy a range of activities, such as game drives, boat tours, snorkeling, and hiking. The park offers something for everyone, from nature lovers and adventure seekers to those looking for relaxation and tranquility.

 

Day 7

Eswatini and Marloth Park

Marloth Park is a wildlife conservancy and holiday town located in Mpumalanga, South Africa. It is situated on the southern boundary of the Kruger National Park, one of Africa's largest game reserves. Marloth Park is known for its close proximity to the wilderness and the abundant wildlife that roams freely within the area.

The town is unique in that it is not fenced off from the surrounding nature reserve, allowing animals such as impalas, kudus, zebras, giraffes, and warthogs to roam freely between the properties. Visitors can experience the thrill of being in close proximity to these animals in their natural habitat.

Kruger Riverside Lodge in Marloth Park offers a range of comfortable and stylish rooms, each with its own unique charm and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. Guests can enjoy amenities such as a swimming pool, an on-site restaurant, and a bar.

 

Day 8 & Day 9

Manyeleti Private Game Reserve

The Manyeleti Private Game Reserve is a private game reserve located in the Mpumalanga and Limpopo provinces of South Africa. It borders the renowned Kruger National Park and shares an unfenced boundary with it, allowing wildlife to roam freely between the two areas.

Manyeleti means "Place of the Stars" in the local Shangaan language, and the reserve is named after the twinkling stars that illuminate the African night sky. It is a relatively small reserve, but it offers an authentic and intimate safari experience.

The Manyeleti Private Game Reserve is known for its untouched wilderness, abundant wildlife, and its commitment to responsible tourism. It is home to a diverse range of animals, including the Big Five (elephant, lion, leopard, rhinoceros, and buffalo) as well as numerous other species such as giraffes, zebras, antelopes, and various bird species.

Accommodation (2 nights) at Ndzhaka Tented Camp. Ndzhaka Tented Camp is a popular safari camp. Situated in the beautiful Manyeleti Private Nature Reserve, it offers a unique and authentic African experience for nature lovers and wildlife enthusiasts.

The camp provides guests with comfortable and luxurioused tented accommodation. Each tent is well-appointed with comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, and private decks that offer stunning views of the surrounding wilderness.

Guest at Ndzhaka Tented Camp can enjoy thrilling game drives in the morning and in the evening and guided walks, led by experienced rangers who are passionate about conservation and nature.

 

Day 10

Panorama Route

The Panorama Route in South Africa is a breathtaking scenic drive that takes you through some of the country's most stunning landscapes. Located in the Mpumalanga province, this route offers a variety of natural wonders including majestic waterfalls, deep canyons, and panoramic views.

One of the highlights of the Panorama Route is the Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the world. The canyon is known for its dramatic cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a stunning backdrop for any drive.

Another must-see attraction along the Panorama Route is God's Window, a viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the Lowveld below. This vantage point allows you to see as far as Mozambique on a clear day.

In addition to these natural wonders, the Panorama Route also offers opportunities for adventure, such as hiking trails, river rafting, and exploring the many wildlife reserves in the area.

Overall, the Panorama Route in South Africa is a must-visit on the way back to Johannesburg International Airport for departure to your International Flight.

Cape Town & Cape Winelands

Book in combination with the 10-days round trip

Embark on one of our Majestic Fly-In Safari Adventures

Discover the wonders of East Africa like never before with our extraordinary Fly-In Safaris. By choosing to fly to your final safari destination, you'll experience the convenience and time-saving benefits that come with this unique mode of transportation. 

Imagine soaring above the breathtaking landscapes in a small aircraft, getting a bird's-eye view of the stunning wilderness that awaits you. Our Fly-In Safari packages include flights via small Cessna or Caravan aircraft from the international airport where you arrive.

This exhilarating journey to the heart of Africa is an adventure in itself, as you land on remote dirt airstrips surrounded by the untamed beauty of the wild. From there, you'll be warmly greeted by representatives from your camp or lodge, who will ensure your smooth transition to your accommodation, allowing you to settle in and prepare for the thrilling experiences that lie ahead.

One of the greatest advantages of a fly-in safari is the ability to access remote areas that are otherwise inaccessible by road. Leave the crowds behind and immerse yourself in the true essence of the African bush. Imagine sipping a sundowner from your camp or lodge, with nothing but the vast wilderness stretching out before you, offering a sense of serenity and tranquility.

Whether you have a few days or several weeks, our Fly-In Safaris cater to all types of travelers. For those with limited time, you can swap hours of tedious road travel for short transfer flights, maximizing your time on game drives and enjoying the authentic safari experience. Even in just a few days, you can witness the incredible wildlife and stunning landscapes that Eastern and Southern Africa has to offer. On the other hand, if you have more time to spare, a fly-in trip allows you to explore vast distances between different countries, landscapes and lodges or camps, giving you the opportunity to embark on multiple adventures across various national parks and countries.

Eastern and Southern Africa are home to some of the most iconic safari destinations in the world, and our Fly-In Safaris offer you the chance to explore these remarkable places. Immerse yourself in the diversity and beauty of the Okavanga Delta in Botswana, where you'll witness the largest inland river delta on the planet. Combine your East African Safari with a visit to the majestic Victoria Falls, where you can marvel at the waterfall from a unique aerial perspective. Explore the stunning landscapes of Zambia and Malawi, or take in the contrasting scenery of Namibia, with its vast desert and breathtaking coastline.

At a time when the world is still recovering from the effects of the pandemic, it's essential to support the local communities and wildlife that depend on tourism. By choosing a Fly-In Safari, you contribute to the conservation efforts and sustainable tourism practices in Eastern and Southern Africa. Your journey becomes more than just a vacation; it becomes an opportunity to make a positive impact and support the livelihoods of the people who call this remarkable region home.

Join us on a Fly-In Safari and unlock the extraordinary beauty of East Africa. Experience the thrill of flying over the vast wilderness, encounter magnificent wildlife, and create memories that will last a lifetime. Choose a safari that goes beyond the ordinary and immerse yourself in the true essence of this remarkable continent.

Herewith some of our prefered Lodges and Camps

 

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