Activity Level 2
Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.
Read more about the Active Range
Price (Includes taxes and fees)
from USD 6999/per adult
Activity Level 1
Suitable for most fitness levels, our Level 1 adventures are the perfect introduction to adventure travel.
You'll typically experience two half day activities per day, done at an easygoing pace.
Activity Level 2
Hikes on our Level 2 adventures are considered easy to moderate in difficulty.
Those who enjoy half-day hikes with enough elevation gain to elevate their heart rate will enjoy these adventures.
Activity Level 3
Those who take on our Level 3 tours are looking for more challenging hikes that will raise their heart rate.
While not our most strenuous trips, you'll definitely feel accomplished after a day on the trails. A solid base of fitness is advised.
Activity Level 4
Be prepared for some serious physical activity on our Level 4 trips. The fitter you are, the more you'll enjoy it, as most hikes will be challenging.
Hikes may include rock scrambling, river crossings, and off trail adventures.
Activity Level 5
On our Level 5 trips get ready to conquer back-to-back days of long hikes or summitting peaks at altitude.
We require a high level of fitness as adventurers will be met with plenty of challenges and sometimes extreme conditions.
Beat trip price increases. Book by June 1, 2024, to lock in current pricing!
Follow the steps of the Big 5 on our Kruger National Park safari. This trip is the perfect way to immerse yourself into Africa’s wilderness and bring you a breath away from an impressive array of wildlife. You’ll track the steps of the Big 5 with expert safari guides and enjoy a mix of remote safari camps and lodges near the renowned national park of South Africa, climb iconic Table Mountain in captivating coastal Cape Town, and bike through the lush vineyards and historic towns of the Cape Winelands region.
Foodie? South Africa’s cuisine is as rich and vibrant as its landscapes: you will breakfast on the private patio of your luxury safari tent while watching the sunrise, picnic lunch amidst a mighty canyon beneath the towering peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains, taste internationally acclaimed wines among laden grapevines, and dine on exquisite local produce in seaside restaurants overlooking the white beaches out to the Atlantic.
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Our Trip Itinerary contains all the exciting details you can expect to do on our trips. Get a clear picture of the adventures on this trip.
DOWNLOAD ITINERARY PDFDay 1
We’ll meet at the Oliver Tambo Airport in Johannesburg and head northeast via the Panorama Route through the Mpumalanga province. We’ll stop along the way to explore geological wonders such as the Lisbon Falls, and the Three Rondavels, before lunching at the magnificent Graskop Gorge Lift.
We’ll arrive at the beautiful Blyde River Canyon Lodge nestled on an 85-hectare (210-acre) botanical reserve, by the sparkling waters of the Blyde River. Don’t be surprised if free-roaming zebras and other wildlife come and visit you in the tranquil gardens outside your room!
Accommodation: Blyde River Canyon Lodge, Limpopo Province
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 2
Today we hike the world’s largest green canyon, which spans 16 miles (26 kilometers) and reaches depths of 2,625 feet (800 meters). First stop is a visit to the 1,800 hectare (4,448-acre) Cape Vulture Conservancy. Here you’ll see a variety of plains game, stunning flora, impressive rock formations and a dazzling array of birdlife. Then onto our half-day hike of the Blyde River Canyon situated under the dramatic Drakensberg Mountains.
The hike finishes with a harvest table lunch set in a private garden with spectacular views of the mountains and citrus fruits growing all around.
Then it’s back to the luxurious lodge to relax, take a dip in the pool and enjoy the beautiful facilities and surroundings.
Accommodation: Blyde River Canyon Lodge, Limpopo Province
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Cape Vultures Conservancy Hike: 6.2 miles (10 kilometers), 1-1.5 hours, (guests can stop at any time should they wish to)
Blyde River Canyon Hike: 1.3 miles (2.1 kilometers), 1-1.5 hours
Day 3
Enjoy a relaxing morning before heading to the south-western region of Kruger National Park. Located in the land known as Mpumalanga (Zulu for “the sun rises”), this is one of the most beautiful provinces in South Africa, with spectacular canyons, pristine rivers, waterfalled mountains, and impressive caves to explore.
We will stay in the Mdluli Safari Lodge, featuring luxurious tent style accommodations with private patios, indoor and outdoor showers, and magnificent views out over the park. After a preview of what’s to come in the days ahead, we’ll head back to freshen up before dinner, and enjoy a sundowner in great company around the fire pit.
Rest up tonight – your first morning game drive is tomorrow!
Accommodation: Mdluli Safari Lodge or Nkambeni Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 4
Start your morning at sunrise with an invigorating cup of coffee and light snack, before setting off on our first morning game drive. Today’s game drive takes us through the Kruger National Park in search of the ‘Big 5’ and all the other animals who call this area home. Our knowledgeable local guides are experts at deciding which areas of the wilderness to focus our attention on, and at which times of the day all with the utmost safety in mind.
We’ll return to the lodge for breakfast, followed by a few hours of free time. We’ll then regroup for a late lunch before heading back out for another afternoon game drive, extending into the early evening – a great time to see some of the big cats as they start their nightly prowl.
A traditional dinner awaits you on your return, before sleeping under the stars.
Accommodation: Mdluli Safari Lodge or Nkambeni Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 5
Another morning game driving awaits us today! Your guides may head back to areas where you encountered animals yesterday, or you may explore new areas. The day will run similarly to yesterday, with an early start, coffee, and a light snack, before heading out to look for the early risers. Lions are most active in the early morning and at sunset, as they rest for up to 20 hours per day!
You’ll head back to the lodge for breakfast, some leisurely relaxation time, and lunch before heading back out to explore the area one last time.
We’ll have a stop for sundowners and snacks before heading back to the lodge for a hot shower, and our final delicious dinner together before we head to the city tomorrow!
Accommodation: Mdluli Safari Lodge or Nkambeni Safari Lodge
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 6
After an early breakfast it will be time to say farewell to the savannah and transfer to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport for your flight to Cape Town. Upon arrival, you’ll be transferred to your hotel, and the afternoon is yours to explore the city the New York Times voted the best place in the world to visit!
Tomorrow starts with a tour of the city, so you can choose to just take it easy this afternoon in a cafe or at your hotel, before re-grouping for dinner at Bilboa Restaurant, beautifully situated overlooking Camps Bay and out to the Atlantic Ocean.
Accommodation: City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 7
Today you’ll embark on a walking tour highlighting the dramatic history of Cape Town. You’ll visit the bustling streets of old buildings and squares, learn about the story of Dutch and British rule, slavery and apartheid, and freedom and democracy. City tour highlights include the Adderley Street Flower Market, the Castle of Good Hope, Bo-Kaap (Malay Quarter), and the Slavery Precinct.
You’ll enjoy a relaxed lunch by the waterfront, before heading to iconic Table Mountain, where you’ll ascend by cable car - or on a guided hike - offering brilliant views out over Cape Town, to the 12 Apostles. There’s the option to continue hiking to the highest point before coming down by cable car, enjoying 360-degree views on the way.
We’ll conclude the day with a 14-course ‘taste safari’ gourmet dinner at GOLD Restaurant, which will take you on a culinary voyage from Table Mountain to Timbuktu. Enjoy interactive traditional entertainment while you dine.
Accommodation: City Lodge Hotel V&A Waterfront
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Optional Table Mountain Hike: 3.7 miles (6 kilometers), 4-5 hours
Elevation Gain/Loss: 2,625 feets (800 meter) ascent
Jeep track, single rocky track, stone steps, ladders
Day 8
After breakfast, we’ll drive two hours to Franschhoek, a charming French picture-perfect town founded in the late 1600s, where cheese factories, art galleries and wine estates abound. From here you’ll set off on a leisurely cycling tour through the scenic back roads of the Cape Winelands, indulging in a bit of wine tasting along the way. Surrounded by the dramatic Groot Drakenstein Mountains, you will cycle past the internationally acclaimed wine estates of La Motte, Moreson, and Graham Beck.
After the bike ride there’ll be time for a refreshing swim at the hotel pool, before heading back to town for a group dinner at Rueben’s, an exquisite glass-fronted eatery with a sophisticated dining menu. Franschhoek is the culinary capital of South Africa - enjoy finding out why over tonight’s dinner!
Accommodation: Protea Hotel by Marriott, or Le Franschhoek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Biking: 11 miles (18 kilometers), 2-3 hours
Day 9
This morning you’ll head to Stellenbosch to walk the town on a half day ‘foodie tour,’ exploring all the famous cafes, art galleries, historical sites and other delights that make this town so special. In addition to its international wine reputation, Stellenbosch is also home to curated, public art exhibitions.
During our leisurely walk you’ll get an insider’s perspective with an expert guide, savoring the handiwork of passionate food artisans, and celebrated artists in the outdoor art exhibition. Here you’ll indulge in an award-winning gin experience with light snacks, sample fine Stellenbosch craft beers with flavorful bites, enjoy local produce served with artisan bread, and sip a liquid ‘dessert’ at an innovative coffee laboratory.
We’ll return to Franschhoek, and the afternoon is yours to explore. Our last dinner together tonight will be at the Grande Provence Restaurant, situated on one of the most beautiful heritage estates in Franschhoek.
Accommodation: Protea Hotel by Marriott, or Le Franschhoek
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 10
Sadly, our last day is already here, so following breakfast you will be transferred to Cape Town International Airport to say farewell (“Hamba Kahle” in Zulu) to your group companions and guide. You’ll go home with amazing safari stories to tell, and undoubtedly hundreds of incredible pictures to share.
Accommodation: Not applicable
Meals: Breakfast
By paying in full we are able to pass on savings to our guests, but please note that by opting for this payment plan, your booking becomes non-refundable, non-cancellable, and non-changeable. This offer is only valid for reservations where the trip is no sooner than 180 days from the departure date at time of booking.
We highly recommend that you purchase Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) insurance. We recommend Redpoint Insurance - you can find details here.
*Terms & conditions apply – read more here
You’ll be inspired and exhilarated, enjoying mind-blowing scenery on foot, in a sea kayak, or by bike - all at your own pace.
We're proud of our New Zealand roots and you’ll love our professional and warm style of hosting. We’re always here to help with planning... even hiking boot recommendations!
We've got everything covered – top-notch meals, comfortable transport, superb accommodation, amazing guides and INCREDIBLE service.
With an average of 12 guests per departure and an industry-leading average 6:1 guest-to-guide ratio, you'll get to know your fellow travelers and have the flexibility to go at your own pace.
All our carefully selected guides are highly experienced and have deep personal connections to nature and culture. You’ll enjoy an authentic local experience.
We could hang around all day telling you how wonderful our trips are... but the best people to hear it from are our guests themselves.
