Wake up early and start your day with a sunrise cup of coffee and fresh rusks, a traditional South African biscuit. Prepare for an exciting adventure as we head out on a full-day game drive with expert guides in an open safari vehicle. A breakfast pack will be provided to enjoy at one of the park’s scenic picnic spots.

As we explore the wilderness, keep your senses heightened for the chance to spot both the Big 5—lion, elephant, leopard, buffalo, and rhino—and the myriad of other creatures, big and small, that call the park home. Graceful giraffes can be seen among the thorn trees, while vultures circle high in the vast African skies, often indicating a nearby kill. Listen for the compelling cry of a Fish Eagle or the unforgettable, full-throated roar of a lion echoing through the bush.

Around midday, we will stop for a tranquil lunch (at your own expense) at another scenic picnic spot. Here, you can relax and soak in the unique energy of the African bush, surrounded by the untamed beauty of the park.

As the day unfolds, continue your exploration, adding to your list of animal and bird sightings. Each turn in the road promises new and exciting discoveries, from the stealthy movements of a leopard to the playful antics of a troop of baboons.

We return to the lodge in the late afternoon, where you can unwind and reflect on the day’s adventures. In the evening, enjoy a delightful dinner under a starry sky, sharing stories around the campfire or in the lodge’s restaurant. The night is filled with the sounds of the wild, creating a perfect end to an exhilarating day in the heart of Kruger National Park.

You will be reluctant to leave the wild world of the Kruger National Park, but the adventure continues in the wildlife mecca of Hoedspruit. After breakfast, we embark on a scenic 3-hour drive to Orpen Gate, where we exit the park and head towards the renowned Makalali Private Game Reserve. This reserve is celebrated for its diverse wildlife and stunning landscapes, including the dramatic skyline of the Drakensberg Mountain Range. Makalali is also a crucial habitat for the highly endangered African wild dog. We will stop for lunch (at your own expense) en route, allowing you to savor the local flavors.

Upon arrival at the lodge, you have several options to unwind. Enjoy an afternoon high tea, take a refreshing dip in the pool, or relax on a viewing deck with panoramic views of the reserve. The anticipation builds as you prepare for the afternoon game drive.

In the afternoon, you’ll explore the 26,000 hectares of pristine bushveld that make up Makalali Private Game Reserve. Guided by an expert game ranger in an open safari vehicle, you’ll have the opportunity to witness an array of wildlife in their natural habitat. The reserve’s diverse ecosystems provide a rich environment for sightings of not only the Big 5 but also a variety of other animals and bird species.

The excitement of the day continues with two game drives, offering hours of exploration and discovery. As the sun sets and the African sky is painted with vibrant colors, you’ll return to the lodge for an exceptional dining experience. Enjoy fine dining on the deck, surrounded by the sounds of the bush, before retiring to your suite for a restful night, ready to embrace another day of adventure in the heart of the African wilderness.

Early mornings in the bush are extraordinary. The crisp air is filled with birdsong, and animals make their way to watering holes. Immerse yourself in this natural wonder with a guided walk through the bush or an open vehicle game drive. After a hearty lodge breakfast, we set off along the iconic Panorama Route, where the scenery transforms from bushveld to lush green mountains and valleys.

Our first stop is the Blyde River Canyon, the world’s largest green canyon, renowned for its waterfalls and ancient geological formations. You’ll be amazed by sights like the Three Rondavels, three massive rock formations resembling traditional African huts. We then venture to Bourke’s Luck Potholes, where centuries of swirling water have carved deep, dramatic holes into the sandstone. Here, you can stand on bridges overlooking these natural marvels.

For lunch (at your own expense), we pause at a scenic spot along the route, offering the chance to savor local cuisine while soaking in the breathtaking views. Continuing our journey, we visit the Lisbon Falls, where misty rainbows dance in the spray of water plunging 94 meters down a sheer rock face. If time permits, a short walk to the base of the falls provides an even closer view of this stunning natural spectacle.

Next, we ascend to God’s Window, the highest point of the day, where you’ll be greeted with unrivaled panoramic views of the lowveld stretching out below. Nearby, the Pinnacle Rock, a tall freestanding geological formation, offers another breathtaking vantage point over the canyon.

As the day winds down, we arrive near Graskop, a charming town established in the 1880s during the gold rush, now thriving in the local timber industry. Here, you can enjoy a relaxing dinner at your hotel, reflecting on the day’s adventures and the incredible natural beauty you’ve witnessed. We overnight in this historical town, ready for more exploration tomorrow.

Start your day with a delightful breakfast at your hotel, savoring the morning tranquility before we embark on our journey back to Johannesburg. As we travel, you’ll have the opportunity to reflect on the incredible experiences and breathtaking landscapes we’ve encountered.

Midway through our journey, we’ll stop for lunch at a charming local restaurant (at your own expense). This break allows you to enjoy a final taste of the region’s cuisine and perhaps pick up some last-minute souvenirs.

Continuing our drive, we traverse the scenic landscapes, gradually transitioning from the lush green mountains and valleys of the Panorama Route back to the bustling urban environment. Our route offers glimpses of the diverse beauty of South Africa, from the verdant countryside to the sprawling cityscape.

We aim to arrive in Johannesburg in the afternoon, where we’ll drop you off at OR Tambo International Airport for your onward travels or at one of the main hotels in Sandton or Rosebank. These vibrant districts are known for their upscale shopping, dining, and cultural attractions, providing a fitting end to your journey.

As we part ways, you’ll carry with you the memories of an unforgettable adventure, from the majestic wildlife of Kruger National Park to the awe-inspiring vistas of the Panorama Route. Your safari and scenic exploration have provided a rich tapestry of experiences, showcasing the extraordinary beauty and diversity of South Africa.