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South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Rating: 4.8
Rating: 4.8/5 Read 46 reviews

Activity Level

Moderate

See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you

Comfort Level

Classic

Activity

Walking & Trekking

Overview

Follow hiking trails, animal tracks and the best guides on a journey deep into South Africa’s untamed heart

Ready to discover the wild side of South Africa? Pack hiking boots and binoculars for an adventure of scenic hikes and iconic safari adventures. The highlights come thick and fast: the trails of the Drakensberg mountains, safari in Kruger National Park, dramatic natural wonders on the Panorama Route, an exploration of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) and so much more. Better yet, you’ll be guided by tour leader who knows every track and trail – your key to unlocking the really wild side of the Rainbow Nation.

South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Key Information

What's Included

  • Accommodation: 2 Superior nights (lodge), 8 Classic nights (chalets/lodges), 4 Simple nights (chalets)
  • All breakfasts, 11 lunches, eight dinners
  • All transport and listed activities
  • Tour leader throughout
  • Group arrival and departure transfers available

Don't Forget To

  • Request a single room if required, purchase travel insurance and arrange any visas and vaccinations.

9 days of Walking & Trekking

Pace:

Approximately two to eight hours of hiking per day

Terrain:

There is some walking at higher altitude and occasional longer/harder days may be involved
Altitude max: 9,515ft (2,900m); average: 4,100ft (1,250m)

Highlights

  • Combine stunning walks and wildlife-watching in one unforgettable adventure in southern Africa
  • Hike the most scenic trails in the dramatic Drakensberg mountains over several days
  • Spot iconic safari animals on multiple game drives in Kruger National Park
  • Walk the most picturesque trails in Malolotja Nature Reserve, Eswatini
  • Cruise Lake St Lucia where hippos and crocodiles populate the waters

Itinerary

South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
  • First Destination: Johannesburg
  • Next Destination: Johannesburg
  • Accommodation:Mogodi Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Dinner
  • Accommodation:Blyde Canyon Forever Resort (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast
  • Accommodation:Makuwa Safari Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Makuwa Safari Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Skukuza or Pretoriuskop camp (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Hwane Resort (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner
  • Accommodation:Hwane Resort (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Shonalanga apartments (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Shonalanga apartments (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Bella’s Rest Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Thendele Chalets (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Thendele Chalets (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Witsieshoek Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch
  • Accommodation:Witsieshoek Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch
  • Meals included:Breakfast
  • First Destination: Johannesburg
  • Next Destination: Johannesburg

Begin the adventure in Johannesburg – Jo’burg or Jozi to those in the know – a dynamic city of history, culture and creativity.

Meet with the group at your designated meeting spot (see the Joining Instructions for more details), then transfer (4hr 45min, not including stops) to Graskop, a town on the edge of the Mpumalanga escarpment.

To break up the journey, we stop regularly to enjoy spectacular scenery and visit the Mac Mac Falls. We also travel through the highest town in South Africa, Belfast (6,465ft/1,970m), and the scenic Long Tom Pass. We also take the opportunity to stock up on supplies such as drinks and snacks.

This evening, we have a welcome briefing at 6pm and then your tour leader ensures a big South African welcome by arranging a group dinner.

Want to explore further? Secure pre-tour hotel nights through your sales representative.

Accommodation: Mogodi Lodge (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Mogodi Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Dinner

Today is dedicated to exploring the Panorama Route, a wonderfully scenic driving route of dramatic peaks, indigenous forest, geological marvels and the Blyde River Canyon.

Our tour starts at the Graskop Gorge Lift, a 167ft (51m) ascent into the heart of Afromontane forest. The glass walls provide excellent views over the Drakensberg escarpment. At the top, you can take part in optional activities, such as a thrilling zipline experience or a cliff walkway. After, we embark on a one-hour walk through the forest floor.

Then, we return to the minibus, driving to some of the highlights of the Panorama Route, starting with the stunning views at God’s Window. If we’re lucky, God’s Blanket may be down, a majestic cloud inversion that gives you the feeling of being on top of the world. We also visit the fascinating rock formations at Bourke’s Luck Potholes.

Finally, in the late afternoon, enjoy a short walk to a lookout point, where we can watch the sun set over the Blyde River Canyon.

Accommodation: Blyde Canyon Forever Resort (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Blyde Canyon Forever Resort (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Continue exploring the beauty of the area around Blyde River Canyon this morning, embarking on a four-hour looping hike that includes the Leopard, Guineafowl and Kadishi Tufa trails.

Along the way, we have further views of Blyde River Canyon, walk through forest and stop at Kadishi tufa waterfall. Most of the trail is on a good path, but there are some sections of small rock steps, roots and a few small stream crossings.

After lunch, board a 10- or 30-seater boat for a guided cruise on the tranquil waters of the Blyde River Dam, surrounded by the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world. On our 1hr 30min adventure, we glide past towering cliffs, lush greenery and unique rock formations. We also keep an eye out for the abundant wildlife, including plenty of different birds, hippos and crocodiles, and enjoy wonderful views of waterfalls – an unforgettable journey through one of South Africa’s natural wonders.

Finally, we transfer (45 minutes) to a private game reserve in the Greater Kruger area, our base for the next two days.

Accommodation: Makuwa Safari Lodge (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Makuwa Safari Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Start early this morning, transferring (40 minutes) to Hoedspruit, where we meet our specialist guide. It’s then a short drive to Pridelands, a wildlife-rich private reserve that forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park and is open to the Kruger. Here we spend three hours, at least two of these walking while following animal tracks and the rest of the time on an open game drive, searching for the iconic wildlife of Africa. The walk is likely to be around 3mi (5km) but this changes from trip to trip. We walk in the early morning before the heat of the day but it can still get hot in the African Bush. Wear proper walking shoes and trousers (pants).

This afternoon, jump into an open safari vehicle for a game drive in Kruger National Park, home to arguably the greatest variety of animals of any park in Africa, with lions, leopards, elephants, buffalos, black and white rhinos, plus cheetah, giraffes, hippos and many species of antelopes and smaller plains game.

Accommodation: Makuwa Safari Lodge (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Makuwa Safari Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

We head into Kruger National Park today, justifiably one of the most famous wildlife parks in the world. It is also one of the oldest, established by the South African president Paul Kruger in 1898.

We game drive (in our vehicle) through the park where we have an excellent chance of seeing a wide variety of wildlife. We arrive at our Kruger camp in the late afternoon just before the camp gates close to maximise our game-viewing chances.

Accommodation: Skukuza or Pretoriuskop camp (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Skukuza or Pretoriuskop camp (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

We get up before sunrise for a game drive at, arguably, the best time of day for wildlife-spotting. We return to camp for breakfast and to pack up before moving onto a new country: Eswatini. We leave the park at around lunch time and have a short stop to resupply before crossing the border into Eswatini. We drive (three hours) towards the Malolotja Nature Reserve, where we spend a relaxing evening at our accommodation ready for a long walk tomorrow.

Accommodation: Hwane Resort (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Hwane Resort (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Dinner

Today we explore the reserve on foot, taking the most picturesque route. We drive around 15 minutes to the start of our walk in Malolotja, enjoying a warm-up walk along a dirt track to the Logwala viewpoint. From here, we have a fairly steep descent to the Malolotja Waterfall viewpoint.

We then have a picnic lunch by a stream and, if the water levels are high enough, a swim. After, we continue on the path, following a contour line, before a short climb brings us to the Silotfwane viewpoint. It’s then back through the beautiful valley, crossing a small stream, back to the Logwala viewpoint and onto the cabins.

More than 280 bird species have been spotted in this reserve, as have many antelope species, zebras and wildebeest. You will have great views and the chance to spot various eagles or even the very rare bald ibis.

Accommodation: Hwane Resort (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Hwane Resort (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today we head out of Eswatini and back into South Africa. On the way, we visit Swazi Candles, where we can watch the artisans make their candles, plus there’s a tearoom and separate craft market with wood and stone carvings and batiks.

After, we head south through rural Eswatini, before entering South Africa and travelling to St Lucia. This small town is both by the Indian Ocean and by Lake St Lucia and is known for its crocodile and hippo populations (hippos are sometimes seen wandering in town). The lake itself is the largest estuary in Africa and a haven for birds. The proximity to the ocean means it is possible to go swimming and even whale watching (June to November).

Accommodation: Shonalanga apartments (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Shonalanga apartments (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Getting up early, we head down to the dock and board a boat on the nearby lake. We spend two hours exploring by boat with an excellent chance of seeing some of the many resident hippos, crocodiles and fish eagles.

We return to our apartments for breakfast and then pack a picnic lunch for the short drive to Cape Vidal, a long stretch of beach along the Indian Ocean. Along the way, we stop at bird hides and there’s a small chance of spotting rhinos. We spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach with a chance to visit Mission Rocks, where turtles sometimes congregate.

Accommodation: Shonalanga apartments (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Shonalanga apartments (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Leaving the coast, we head 185mi (300km) to Isandlwana, an isolated hill on which British and Zulu forces fought on 22 January 1879, the second major encounter in the Anglo-Zulu War. Here, we embark on a two-hour walk, exploring the battlefields, seeing the graves and learning more about this bloody moment in history.

Ending at a local village, we then transfer to Rorke’s Drift Museum, which unfolds the tale of the Battle of Rorke’s Drift, in which 140 British Redcoats battles against 4,000 Zulu warriors. We enter the museum building, discovering realistic battle sounds and immersive dioramas, before exploring the wider complex, including a visit to a ridge, where we can gaze over the battlefield.

After our hike, we transfer (one hour) to our lodge for the night.

Accommodation: Bella’s Rest Lodge (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Bella’s Rest Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

Continue our journey to the beautiful Royal Natal National Park, known from being home to the distinctive natural Amphitheatre. The Drakensberg is a basalt escarpment forming the border between Kwa-Zulu Natal and Lesotho and continuing into the Free State. It means Dragon Mountains, but the Zulu named it Quuathlamba (the Barrier of Spears) – a more accurate description of the sheer, forbidding, jagged escarpment.

Arriving at the park, we have a one-hour walk with a local guide to see rock art created by the San people hundreds of years ago. Returning to the start point of the walk, we have a picnic lunch, before a 3mi (5km) hike through the Drakensberg foothills to our accommodation. We arrive in the late afternoon, allowing plenty of time to relax this evening.

Accommodation: Thendele Chalets (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Thendele Chalets (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

Today, we follow the Thukela River, past protea trees (the national flower of South Africa as well as the name of their cricket team), indigenous yellow wood forest and mountainous grasslands to the natural Amphitheatre and Tugela Waterfall viewpoint. The walk, which involves some boulder hopping and crossing a dry riverbed close to the end, takes us into the heart of Royal Natal National Park and offers stunning views of the dramatic northern Drakensberg Mountains.

Accommodation: Thendele Chalets (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Thendele Chalets (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

As the bus takes our luggage to our next lodge, we head along trails by foot. The start of our route follows a contour line and takes us via Tiger Falls with excellent views over Royal Natal National Park. From here, we continue to a lookout rock for photographs over the valley, before crossing the Mahai River and making our way to Gudu Bush.

We then arrive at a split in the path and have a choice of two routes up the mountain. Typically, we ascend through a crack and then onto the Bushmen Gate and Witsieshoek. Time permitting, and if the group are fit enough, we take the alternate route to see the Mahai Falls en route to Witsieshoek. Overall, the paths are well maintained and there is a section of short wooden ladders to climb.

Accommodation: Witsieshoek Lodge (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Witsieshoek Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch

In the morning, we drive 9mi (15km) along a poor road to the trek start point at the Sentinel Gate. Upon arrival, we register with the rangers and are joined by a local mountain guide. From here, we trek along the edge of the mountains, possibly chaperoned by mountain baboons or, if we are lucky, by the resident bearded vultures, up to the ladders, which take us to the top (9,515ft/2,900m). We then follow the Thukela River to the edge of the Tugela Falls, the highest waterfall in Africa, and enjoy views across the amphitheatre and our previous day’s route. We then walk back to the vehicle and transfer 9mi (15km) to our lodge. The hike should take about six hours including stopping for lunch.

Accommodation: Witsieshoek Lodge (or similar)

  • Accommodation:Witsieshoek Lodge (or similar)
  • Meals included:Breakfast, Lunch
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

There is an optional three-hour final morning walk in these wonderful mountains, with a local guide, before driving back to Johannesburg in time for our flight this evening. The trip ends upon arrival in Johannesburg. If you’d like to stay longer, speak to your sales representative to discuss our large range of extension options.

Please note: If you are organising your own flights, these should not be earlier than the group flights due to the distance we need to travel back to the airport.

  • Meals included:Breakfast

Dates & Prices

South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Skip the hassle: We’ll handle your trip from start to finish, with competitive flight prices, dates that suit you, 24-hour support, loyalty discounts, and peace of mind for delays or disruption.

Call us on 1 844 260 1517
Read more about our flights

  • Saturday 14 Mar 2026 to Saturday 28 Mar 2026

    Availability
    Guaranteed (On Request)

    This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1197
    Available upon Request
    Save CAD 320

    Usually CAD 5850

    Now CAD 5530

  • Saturday 18 Apr 2026 to Saturday 02 May 2026

    Availability
    Guaranteed (On Request)

    This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 1 space left. Do not delay your booking!
    Only 1 space left!
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1197

    CAD 6460 (excl. flights)

  • Saturday 22 Aug 2026 to Saturday 05 Sep 2026

    Availability
    Guaranteed (Available)

    This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1197

    CAD 5530 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1382 deposit

  • Saturday 19 Sep 2026 to Saturday 03 Oct 2026

    Availability
    Sold Out

    This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and is now fully booked, although we may have people holding spaces without payment. Please contact our Sales team for further information.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1197

    CAD 6460 (excl. flights)

    Contact Us about departure on 19 Sep 2026

  • Saturday 10 Oct 2026 to Saturday 24 Oct 2026

    Availability
    Guaranteed (On Request)

    This departure is guaranteed to go ahead but there are only 2 spaces left. Do not delay your booking!
    Only 2 spaces left!
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1197

    CAD 5855 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1463 deposit

  • Saturday 14 Nov 2026 to Saturday 28 Nov 2026

    Availability
    Available

    This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1197

    CAD 5530 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1382 deposit

  • Saturday 09 Jan 2027 to Saturday 23 Jan 2027

    Availability
    Available

    This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1254

    CAD 5855 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1463 deposit

  • Saturday 13 Mar 2027 to Saturday 27 Mar 2027

    Availability
    Guaranteed (Available)

    This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1254

    CAD 5855 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1463 deposit

  • Saturday 17 Apr 2027 to Saturday 01 May 2027

    Availability
    Available

    This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1254

    CAD 5855 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1463 deposit

  • Saturday 21 Aug 2027 to Saturday 04 Sep 2027

    Availability
    Available

    This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1254

    CAD 5855 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1463 deposit

  • Saturday 18 Sep 2027 to Saturday 02 Oct 2027

    Availability
    Guaranteed (Available)

    This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1254

    CAD 5855 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1463 deposit

  • Saturday 09 Oct 2027 to Saturday 23 Oct 2027

    Availability
    Available

    This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1254

    CAD 5855 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1463 deposit

  • Saturday 13 Nov 2027 to Saturday 27 Nov 2027

    Availability
    Available

    This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
    Optional Single Supplement
    +CAD 1254

    CAD 5855 (excl. flights)

    Book with CAD 1463 deposit

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View Details

Accommodation

South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Lodges and chalets

We aim to secure locally owned accommodation that is well located, offers good value for money, and plenty of comfort. To help you find your ideal adventure, each trip is given a Comfort Level rating, which indicates the overall standard of accommodation. For more on our ratings, see our Comfort Level guidelines.

Worth knowing

  • Tailor your trip: Extend your adventure by securing extra hotel nights before or after the main itinerary. Speak to your sales representative to book.
  • Private rooms: Like most tour operators, we room solo passengers together. If you’d prefer to have a private room, it’s normally possible to do this for a supplement. Speak to your sales representative to book. On the nights in the Drakensberg and Eswatini, you might share a chalet/cabin with other members of the group. However, you will still have a single room to yourself.
  • Internet: Wifi is available most nights but is not always very reliable.
  • Nights 11-12: At Thendele, the chalets consist of two rooms sharing a bathroom and lounge.

Essential Information

This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.

Suitability: Good health and reasonable fitness are important and you should take regular exercise before travelling on this trip. Moderate trips are either fairly easy, medium-duration walks or harder, shorter walks. There is some walking at higher altitude and occasional longer/harder days may be involved.

Terrain: Generally, underfoot conditions are fair. On Day 7, conditions can be hot with very little shelter from the sun. We climb as high as 9,515ft (2,900m), with walking days normally four to eight hours.

Ladders: There are some ladders to climb while walking in the Drakensberg. The ladders are in two stretches, a longer one (about 100ft/30m) and a shorter one(about 50ft/15m). Neither is quite vertical and they are metal ladders with thick, square edged footholds and comfortable handholds. While they’re not particularly physically challenging, they can constitute a slight mental challenge to some – but one that is worthwhile for the incredible views from the top of the escarpment. The guides are extremely experienced in taking our groups up and down these ladders and are always happy to help.

Safari: The game viewing is generally best from July to September as visibility improves with trees losing their leaves and because game is more restricted to areas that have water. The bush at this time, however, is much drier compared to earlier in the season and scenically the country is generally at its prettiest from April to June. The migratory birds are visible between October and April.

Journeys: There are a few long drives (the longest being six to seven hours on the first and last days) but the reward is a trip that offers an amazing variety of walking through diverse scenery, plus exciting game viewing, in a comparatively short time.

Legal note: All group members joining this tour will be asked to sign an indemnity form at the start of the holiday. This indemnity form is a requirement of the South African Tourism Service Association, of which our local supplier is a member. As a client of Exodus Travels Ltd, your rights under the Package Travel Regulations (1992) are unaffected, and Exodus remains liable for the actions of our sub-contractors.

Key information 

Start hotel: Mogodi Lodge, Kowyns Pass Road, Graskop, 1270, Graskop, 1270, South Africa
Phone: +27 13 767 1110
Recommended arrival time: This trip starts at the arrival airport. The group meet with the leader for the transfer to the start hotel.
Airport: Johannesburg O.R. Tambo (JNB)

On arrival 

We provide one group transfer from the airport. To join this transfer, you either need to be at the airport before the transfer leaves or meet the tour leader at our pre-tour hotel and go with them to the airport to meet the rest of the group.

Speak to your sales representative for the transfer time. From the airport, we drive to Graskop, which is around a five-hour drive, so it is not recommend trying to make your own way.

Catching your return flight 

We have a long journey back to Johannesburg Airport on the last day of the trip. There’s one group transfer to the airport.

You can join this transfer at no extra cost, but please speak to your sales representative for the time of the transfer. If the group transfer does not suit your flight time, speak to your sales representative to arrange an alternative.
Eswatini (Swaziland)

Travellers from the UK, US and most EU states normally do not need a visa to enter Eswatini. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

South Africa

Travellers from the UK, US and most (though not all) EU states normally do not need a visa to enter South Africa. Please note, visa requirements often change and it is your responsibility to obtain any required visas for this trip. Therefore, we recommend that you check with the nearest embassy or consulate of your chosen destination(s), including any countries you may be transiting or transferring through.

Some local governments provide guidance on what visas their citizens need. To help, we’ve gathered a selection of useful links below.

• Australia: www.smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/south-africa
• Canada: www.travel.gc.ca/destinations/south-africa
• United Kingdom: www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa/entry-requirements
• USA: www.travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/SouthAfrica.html

Please note, all travellers to South Africa who require a visa need at least two consecutive blank pages in their passport (ie a left- and right-hand page) to enable an entry visa to be issued.

Additionally, any child under 18 travelling to South Africa needs to be in possession of an unabridged birth certificate with the names of both parents. If a child under 18 is only travelling with one parent, they will also have to have an affidavit, no less than three months old, from the absent parent confirming the child can travel with the other parent; a court order granting full legal guardianship of the child; or a death certificate of the deceased parent.

In the itinerary, we state which meals are included on which day. The list below provides an indication of what these will consist of:

  • Breakfast: Cereals, coffee, tea and toast, the occasional cooked breakfast.
  • Lunch: Cheese, cold meats, salads, bread or rolls.
  • Dinner: Potjies (stew), braais (barbecue), stir fries, pasta. Most generally cooked on the open fire.

We need at least two weeks’ notice to deal with special dietary requirements (eg vegetarian or allergies.) For this reason, if you did not indicate these on your booking form please advise your sales representative as soon as possible. The tour leaders do all the shopping, meal planning and cooking for each group. They will always try to obtain fresh produce wherever possible. Each tour has two cool boxes for meats and fresh produce and one cool box for cold drinks. We supply the following drinks: fruit squash served with breakfast and tea or coffee served with breakfast and dinner. All other beverages will be at your own expense.

For meals not included, dinners can cost on average 350-500 South African rand (US$20‐US$30) per person and lunches 150-250 South African rand (US$8-US$13). A wide range of à la carte menus and buffets are available at the different lodges, ranging from different meats to vegetarian and vegan options. Snacks, such as biltong (dried, cured meat), droëwors (dried, cured sausage) nuts, including the usual variety you would get at grocery stores, are also available along the way during pitstops.

On days when the group are on morning game walks or drives, we have an early morning cup of tea or coffee and rusks followed by the walk. Once we return to camp, we have a large brunch around 11am. In the early afternoon, we have a snack-style lunch and dinner will be served after completion of the optional game drives.

The water provided on this trip is safe and clean drinking water, normally from boreholes. It is not bottled water, however. If you would rather have bottled water then this will be at your expense, though we would encourage you to make use of the safe drinking water provided as this helps diminish plastic consumption.

Although the greater part of South Africa lies south of the tropic of Capricorn, the temperature is moderated by the altitude. The average midday temperature is likely to be about 22C (72F) on the coast and 24C (75C) inland. This trip covers various different weather regions. Generally, inland areas will be dry between April and October (although storms can occur), whereas rain is more common at this time in the Drakensberg Mountains. In August, the nights can be very cold, especially in the Drakensberg where temperatures can drop below freezing. However, the days are warm and crisp with generally cloud-free skies. From November through February, rain can sometimes be expected and the temperature will be higher. However, as anyone who has travelled to these parts will say, rain is often a blessing, it manifests the local colours, drops the sometimes sweltering temperatures and never generally lasts too long. It also means the nights are incredibly clear.

As a certified B Corp, we’re on a mission to improve our social and environmental impact across all our adventures.

We do this through our innovative Thriving Nature, Thriving People plan.

This ‘nature positive’ approach is designed to help nature and communities thrive in harmony through practical solutions, such as reducing carbon and waste on our trips, supporting conservation projects through the Exodus Adventure Travels Foundation, and rewilding 100 square metres for every Exodus traveller.

Reviews

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Tim Laughton-Scott

Rating: 5

Two unforgettable national parks!!

From the very start, the trip felt immersive and beautifully balanced. The wildlife in Kruger National Park was unforgettable, spotting elephants, lions, and giraffes in their natural habitat was a real highlight. We were very lucky spotting the 'Top 5' and most exciting was seeing 2 leopards to complete the set! I was equally captivated by the more rural, untouched areas, which showcased a quieter, more authentic side of South Africa. The Drakensberg Mountains were simply stunning, with dramatic scenery that felt almost prehistoric, it was a joy to hike around, with next to no one else there. Visiting the historic site of Rorke’s Drift added real depth to the journey. It was a rich, rewarding, and truly memorable experience!

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing the view at the top of Tugela Falls. We spent the day hiking to the summit and seeing the mountains from the top down takes your breath away. The mountains roll on for miles and you truly feel like you are on top of the world.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Clifford was very knowledgeable and passionate about the history, culture and wildlife of South Africa and Eswatini. He was a fountain of knowledge who could answer any questions we had, as well as telling many stories to bring the place to life!

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is a very adventurous trip but also a busy one. We stayed in over 10 hotels (to see as much of the area as possible) and there were a lot of early starts. If you are going for comfort then this may not be for you, but if you are going for hikes, beautiful views and amazing wildlife, then you'll have a great time!

Bethany Barnes

Rating: 5

Best Exodus trip ever

Start to finish this was a fantastic trip. Our guide Clifford shared his deep knowledge of everything: animals and birds, trees and flowers, South African history and culture, hiking trail specifics and the smallest details about life in South Africa and Eswatini. Plus he was caring and kind and fun to be with. I really feel like I gained an understanding of the real South Africa because of Clifford and also the variety of experiences on this trip. We saw all the animals we had hoped to see, the hiking was challenging and extremely rewarding. The Drackensburg hikes were exceptional - scenery that is so beautiful that words and pictures cannot capture it. Even being there, on top of the "Amphitheatre", the grandeur, the immensity of the views, were impossible to truly fathom. Wow.

Most Inspirational Moment

Being on top of the Amphitheatre - the massive escarpment that makes up the spine of the Drackensburgs. Also, witnessing a pride of lions devouring a recently killed Cape Buffalo.

Thoughts on Group Leader

The absolute best we've ever had (of 7 Exodus trips).

Advice for Potential Travellers

The hiking is more challenging than "moderate", with technical aspects like crossing fast flowing rivers and climbing a 100 foot chain ladder up a cliff face.

Naomi Kubina

Rating: 5

Stunning scenery, views and wildlife

We opted to do this over hiking Mt Kilimanjaro. So glad we did. I loved the variety of the wildlife and the hiking. The terrain was excellent with a good amount of challenge. Clifford our guide was fabulous. He pointed out the wildlife, gave us interesting information on all sorts of things and led our walks managing a range of abilities and speeds. We loved the trip and had an awesome time. Would highly recommend it to anyone.

Most Inspirational Moment

Hiking in the Drakensberg mountains

Thoughts on Group Leader

Absolutely fantastic. His knowledge, ability to see wildlife and manage all abilities on the walks was outstanding. Thanks Clifford.

Advice for Potential Travellers

If you love some walking in the outdoors and spotting wildlife do this trip.

A & H Wilson

Rating: 5

Stunning wildlife, walks and leaders!

Quite the most incredble insight into what SA has to offer. With the help of our two brilliant leaders Clifford & Andy we were spoilt by the number of bird and big 5 sightings (these guys have eyes in the back of their heads and Xray vision!). For wildlife spotting this trip does not disappoint - elephant, giraffe, rhino, hyena, lions, warthog, so many antelope and not forgetting a "Leopard Tortoise"all in our first week. Glorious walks abound, the Drakensberg are truely breathaking and we were expertly lead and looked after according to our skill levels. In amongst this were enlightening lessons in tribal history and culture that helped us understand the real SA. Accomodation is varied but everytime suited the location perfectly. The days were long but our leaders were tireless in their enthusiasm, kindness and skills in cooking! If you want a memorable and very varied trip in Africa this is a winner.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing a Rhino family with Dad and baby play charging and seeing the Drakensberg escarpment for the first time.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Andy & Clifford are just the best human beings - generous, kind, knowledgeable, skilled and just great to be around.

Advice for Potential Travellers

Be prepared for early starts and sometimes long days, this isn't a relaxing holiday - quite full on. Walks are at times challenging, due to altitude and terrain (some scrambling and chain ladders).

Suggestions

A memorable trip, SA is beautiful and this trip gives you a great range of sights and experiences.

julie Thompson

Rating: 5

Outstanding adventure

From the moment I stepped off the plane and met our guides Clifford and Andy the trip was exciting it comprised of such a fabulous variety of experiences and immersed you in South African culture, history, beauty and wildlife. The accommodation was varied and suited the environments we were in. The game drives were superb and we saw such a large variety of animals and birds. The hikes took us to areas of outstanding breathtaking beauty. Our guides were phenomenal nothing was to much trouble they understood our individuality and catered to our needs as the only vegetarian in the group I was given some of the most awesome meals courtesy of our guides cooking skills. I would highly recommend this trip

Most Inspirational Moment

The whole trip was inspiring however seeing the baby hyena and the rhinos with their baby was emotional. The hike on the last day to Sentinel peak and climbing the ladders was a personal inspirational moment for me

Thoughts on Group Leader

Clifford and Andy were incredible the knowledge of the country and history was immense they were energetic and worked tirelessly to make sure we eat well, saw as much as possible and learnt about their history and culture. They attended to the group needs to the smallest detail which made a big difference and gave that feeling of being special and valued. Andy is an outstanding driver I always felt secure attended to and confident in their hands. It’s the first time in arriving at the airport to go home I have felt tearful at leaving the guides

Advice for Potential Travellers

I would say do not underestimate the hiking you do need to be fit and the terrain is tricky at times. There are places that will do laundry during the trip so do not over pack. A head torch is a must. Overall my advice is take each moment in and enjoy

Suggestions

Take this trip I have been on numerous exodus trips however this one rates as one of the best it was a breathtaking exhilarating experience .

Richard Mullins

Rating: 3

South African adventures

Prior to my trip I fully reviewed the itinerary and the many favourable comments on the trip and your company. This is not an assassination as there we many positive aspects. My travelling partner and myself arrived in South Africa three days prior and were meant to meet the remainder of the group on the Saturday .Sadly , and totally outside Exodus control’, the flight was cancelled and we meet our two guides at the Airport .Max and Paul took us on impromptu tour of Soweto which proved an excellent experience and was much appreciated. Should we have been advised by Exodus beforehand . We met the rest of the group on Day 2and I was surprised at the make up of the group and the physical ability of one member in particular was questionable from the outset. When completing challenges with other companies , I have always had to complete medical questionnaires including a doctor’s assessment now I am sixty five years of age. It’s beyond me that this gentleman should have been considered for this, at time, challenging adventure. I’m afraid to say his presence impacted the moral of the group and resulted in walks being shortened or omitted all together Accommodation throughout the trip were on the whole satisfactory. There was a few instances where hot water was not available. Food was excellent.Max and Paul catered for us well when their cooking skills were called upon. The only niggle was that too much time spent over the preparation of lunchtime meals when perhaps a self prepared sandwich would have sufficed. I went on the trip primarily as a walking holiday and in our case we missed out on some of these . Such as the fugitive trail, cape Vidal to Mission Rock and the Eswatini walk cut short. A bit disappointing. The group were a very well travelled group having completed many adventures with Exodus . I know that they were also disappointed with the trip Would I do the trip again ?. Yes. For all the shortcomings it was a fascinating insight into a wonderfully beautiful and complex country . I will definitely return to South Africa if the opportunity arises.

Most Inspirational Moment

1 The impromptu visit to Soweto. 2. The guided talk of the battlefields 3 A hippo walking down the middle of the main road in St Lucia 4 the beauty of the Drakensberg mountains ,

Thoughts on Group Leader

Max was extremely knowledgable on wild life and also cultural matters which provided a great insight into a complex country. He also has a strong political opinion. I felt he encountered various problems on the trip which had to be sorted . Most of these were sorted satisfactorily but as the trip progressed I felt he was starting to lose patience with some members of the group and I got the feeling he was pleased when we arrived back in Johannesburg. Much of his work was excellent but he perhaps needs to work on his inter personal skills. In all of this I cannot give Paul , his co leader enough praise. At all times he was caring and considerate and was fully supportive of the group. In some cases I am aware that he defused some issues with his professional attitude. Paul did 90%of the driving in a professional manner and I felt safe in his hands.

Advice for Potential Travellers

. A lot of travelling by mini bus between destinations. I felt it longer than I expected. We went in September and saw temperatures vary between 16 c. and 34c daytime . Be prepared for a lot of early starts, this trip is full on. It is a truly beautiful country and whilst there is no doubt a lot security problems, I never encountered any and you should not be put off . At no time did I feel uncomfortable or at risk.

Suggestions

I feel that my experiences were overall satisfactory. I do feel that the holiday was on the expensive side given that we had to pay for quite a few meals albeit with the weakness of the Rand these were not overly expensive.

South Africa: Walking & Wildlife

Reply from Exodus

We appreciate Richard taking the time to review his experience, and though we are heartened to hear that he found a good deal of positives about his trip and found it satisfactory overall, we’re sorry that some aspects left him disappointed. We were unfortunately informed about a group flight cancellation at late notice by the airline at the start of this trip, which meant that Richard and his travelling companion arrived before the rest of the delayed group, and our local team made arrangements to keep them occupied – we’re really glad to hear that Richard enjoyed the tour of Soweto. Regarding the suitability of another client on Richard’s trip, we do require that all pre-existing medical conditions are disclosed to us on booking, and we screen clients who are over 80 years of age for their suitability for an itinerary; however, aside from this we trust that our clients are able to self-certify using the detailed tour literature provided, including the grading of a trip and the information about terrain and distances walked. We find in general that this approach works extremely well and it is rare that issues arise such as Richard describes, though we are regretful that the client he mentions may have overestimated his abilities or the challenge of the walks on this occasion. Regrettably, we are aware that on this departure a couple of walks could not be completed as expected, though the majority went ahead as planned and, in general, the feedback we received from Richard’s group was positive. Where possible, we always try to provide replacement activities should any parts of the itinerary not be achievable. Overall, we are happy to hear that Richard got a lot out of his time in South Africa and experienced some truly memorable moments. We have taken his comments on board going forward, as while we’re confident this is a great trip we’re always looking to make improvements where possible for the future. - John Penge, Exodus Product Manager

Paul Vickers

Rating: 5

First exodus trip

First group trip on some years. Superb experience and packed so much in. Saw big 5, gear locations, food and like minded company

Most Inspirational Moment

The elephant encounter on game drive. A on heat bull in a rampant mood was so impressive. The guides got us in the best places.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Both the guides Clifford and Evans had a few challenges with a client going down with heat stroke and then heavy rain. On a different day I might add. It’s when you see the professionalism of people at times like this, they were and handled it very well

Advice for Potential Travellers

Clients need to be fit, not really fit, just hill walking fit. Also some headphones and podcasts for the driving times. Also prepared for a lack of WiFi!

Suggestions

Again the guides knowledge friendliness and ability. I never felt unsafe despite all you hear about in South Africa

Kerry McConnell

Rating: 5

Fantastic trip

This is a great trip for those who love both wildlife and hiking. In terms of wildlife, I thought St Lucia and Letaba were special and found Kruger a bit too commercial (like Etosha). The scenery for the hiking is fantastic, particularly in Swaziland and the Drakensberg (one of the most beautiful places I have ever been). If anything, I would like it to have been a bit more challenging as the walks were a little short for myself and other members of the group on some days. This didn't take away from a wonderful trip which I would recommend to anyone.

Most Inspirational Moment

The Letaba reserve was wonderful - less animals than Kruger but we had it to ourselves which was so special.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Our group leader was Marco Olivier, and he was absolutely brilliant. He was supported by Clifford, who was also excellent. The logistics were seamless and the food was great (pretty much always better than restaurant equivalents). They shared so much knowledge about their country - history, people, animals and flora. They always had our well-being at the top of the list and couldn't do enough to make the trip special. Our small group of 8 had so much fun and this was definitely influenced by the relaxed and happy environment the guys created. I've been on about 8 Exodus trips and Marco and Clifford were amongst the very best team that I've experienced.

Philip Orford

Rating: 5

Fantastic Trip

The itinerary looked good but the trip exceeded expectations. Superb mix of activities, locations and accommodation. Good group who got on well and mucked in when needed. Amazing scenery and saw all the Big5 and much more besides. Blyde River Canyon, Eswatini and, of course, the Drakensburg were all stunning. Weather good although walking in 30c+ was a challenge and needed regular rehydration. Challenging walks with most of the group agreeing a moderate rating is misleading.Seeing leopards, after 2 previously unsuccessful trips, as we were almost out of the Kruger and completing the BIg5 on our last game drive at St Lucia. Otherwise the hike to Witsieshoek via the challenging Witsieshoek Crack with boulder scambling and ladders.

Most Inspirational Moment

Seeing leopards, after 2 previously unsuccessful trips, as we were almost out of the Kruger and completing the BIg5 on our last game drive at St Lucia. Otherwise the hike to Witsieshoek via the challenging Witsieshoek Crack with boulder scambling and ladders.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Andrew Lindsay was outstanding in every aspect. Probably the best Leader we have travelled with.

Advice for Potential Travellers

The Trip Notes need updating and I have advised Exodus where there are issues such as printed Covid certificates required for Eswatini and the tree canopy optional having not run for 3 years. The walk rating also needs to be looked at both in terms of rating and distances as the number of GPS gadgets used by the group always showed distances higher than stated.

Suggestions

Great value trip.

Steve Braysher

Rating: 5

Walking, Thunder and Wildlife

Another outstanding trip from Exodus. It is very cleverly consrtucted, gradually building to the climax in the Drakensberg mountains. There were huge contrasts in scenery, passing through industrial and agricultural areas, the expanses of fairly dry national parks to the much greener hills and mountains of Eswatini, the lakes and Indian Ocean at St Lucia and the stunning mountains of the Drakensberg. The wildlife watching was good, not as easy as places such as the Massai Mara in Kenya, but we did see the big 5 and a lot more besides; on all of the walks there was also the opportunity to see wildlife. If birding is your thing, this is a great trip especially at this time of year as the migrations are just starting. I particularly enjoyed the visit to Isandwala and Rorkes Drift, the scene of major battles during the Zulu Wars together with walking the Fugitive's trail between the two. Weather is never predictable and we went from close to 40C one day in the game reservers to weather and scenery that could have been Scotland the next - but it did give us a chance to make use of the open fires in our accommodation in the hills of Eswatini! (Later in the trip we also experienced the most spectacular thunderstorms I have ever seen - very impressive) The Last four nights were spent in the Drakensberg, two at Thendele and 2 at Witsieshoek. The scenery was stunning and the walk up from Thendele to Witsieshoek showed a different aspect of it - more reminiscent of the Yorkshire Dales. The views from the top are wonderful but unfortunately, as is the way with mountains the weather, it closed in for the last day and the inside of a cloud looks pretty much the same wherever you are! We were a group of 12, thrown together at the start of the trip, who rubbed along pretty well and had some great times together, so a big thankyou to all concerned.

Most Inspirational Moment

On a trip as varied as this there are numerous experience that are memorable. The time spent at Letaba Ranch, especially the early morning walk through the bush and the chance for some 'down time' watching the river is one. Although not part of the programme, experiencing the ferocity of a series of dramatic thunderstorms was quite something! However the stunning scenry of the Drakensberg mountains (they are so much more than the Amphitheatre) was the highlight for me.

Thoughts on Group Leader

Santjie was an excellent leader. Constantly cheerful, organised, knowledgable, thoughtful, a good sense of humour and with that special ability to get on with everybody. She worked incredibly hard to make sure that we had the best time possible. On the days when she cooked for the group she produced meals that were remarkably good on some very basic fsacilities. Perhaps the bast way of summarising how good she was is to say that if I would certainly be delighted to do another trip with her as leader.

Advice for Potential Travellers

This is a brilliant trip but you need to be prepared for a lot of early starts (often up by 5a.m.) and some long days - especially on the major driving days. Bring your sense of humour with you - especially if you are going to be there on the day England losese to South Africa in the Rugby World Cup!!

Suggestions

This is a brilliant introduction to South Africa, and one that makes you realise just what a big place it is. Everybody we met was very welcoming and friendly. The one downside was the vehicle we travelled in. Great for viewing wildlife from but very slow up hills - which extended our driving times significantly. The air conditioning was broken pretty much from the start and it leaked from several points in rain, much to the embarrasemnet and frustration of both our leader and excellent driver. But despite this I would still recommend this trip to anyone with the interest and stamina to do it.

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Discounted Price: 5530 CAD. Regular price: 5850 CAD
15 Days Excluding Flights
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