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Kruger, eSwatini & Lesotho Tour

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Kruger, eSwatini & Lesotho OVERVIEW

TOUR SUMMARY

14 days

Johannesburg to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

From

Rs263189 (p/p)

Country(ies): South Africa

Tour type: Small Group

Group size: Min: 4 | Max: 12

Accommodation: Comfortable lodges and permanent en-suite tents

Meals:

Transport: Quantum Style Minibus & 4x4 game drives

Highlights: Kruger National Park 4x4 game drive, Panorama Route - Bourke's Luck Potholes, Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, Game Drive in Kruger National Park, Game Drives (optional), Mountain Biking (optional), Hiking (optional), Game Drive in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi National Park, St. Lucia Boat Cruise, Visit to the Mandela Capture Site, visit Howick Falls, Hike with your guide in Ukhahlamba-Drakensberg Park, Waterfall & Bushman Paintings activity with your guide, Valley of Desolation sunrise tour, afternoon game drive in Addo National Park

This 14-day small group tour begins in Johannesburg, South Africa, and immediately heads east to the Greater Kruger National Park area for two nights. Guests will experience a full day 4x4 game drive within Kruger National Park, renowned for its diverse wildlife including the "Big-5". The itinerary also includes a scenic drive along the Panorama Route, featuring highlights such as Bourke's Luck Potholes, the Three Rondavels, and God's Window.


While we strive to keep our ai generated podcasts updated with changes to the tour itinerary, we recommend confirming all details with a booking agent to ensure accuracy.

The journey continues into Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) for two nights, a landlocked kingdom surrounded by South Africa. Here, guests can explore the local culture and natural beauty, with optional activities like game drives, hiking, or mountain biking available. Following Eswatini, the tour re-enters South Africa, venturing into Zululand and spending two nights in St Lucia. Here, highlights include a game drive in Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve, a critical rhinoceros stronghold, and an afternoon boat cruise on the scenic St Lucia estuary.

The tour then proceeds to the Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO recognised World Heritage site, for two nights. This section includes visits to the Howick Falls and the Nelson Mandela Capture Site, along with a guided hike in the Drakensberg mountains. Next, the group heads to Lesotho, often referred to as the 'Kingdom in the Sky', for two nights. Here, guests will explore its unique mountain landscape on foot and experience a Waterfall and Bushman Paintings activity. The return to South Africa involves a stop in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet in the Great Karoo. The penultimate day features an optional sunrise excursion to the Valley of Desolation and an afternoon game drive in Addo Elephant National Park. The tour concludes in Gqeberha (formerly Port Elizabeth) after breakfast on Day 14.

ITINERARY

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Day 1:   Depart Johannesburg and head to Kruger National Park

Our adventure begins as we leave the bustling city of Johannesburg behind and head east. Our journey takes us through the rich coalfields of Mpumalanga, following the ancient trade routes that lead to the low-lying bushveld and the renowned Kruger National Park area. Tonight, we'll settle into our accommodation in the Greater Kruger National Park region, anticipating the wildlife experiences ahead.

 

OVERNIGHT:

Nkambeni Reserve

MEALS:

Dinner

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Johannesburg - pre-tour
Arrival airport transfer in Johannesburg (free shuttle)


Day 2:   Exploring Kruger National Park on a 4x4 game drive

Rising early this morning, we enter the iconic Kruger National Park for a full day of exhilarating game viewing. The park's incredible abundance of wildlife offers excellent opportunities for sightings, and Kruger is famously home to Africa's "Big-5" – lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo. As the true flagship of South African national parks, Kruger boasts an impressive diversity of life: 336 types of trees, 49 fish species, 34 amphibians, 114 reptiles, 507 bird species, and 147 mammals. Our immersive game drive through the park will be conducted in a specially designed open-sided 4x4 vehicle, providing optimal viewing opportunities.

OVERNIGHT:

Nkambeni Reserve

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 3:   Travel along the Panorama Route

For those who choose the optional morning walk, today will involve an earlier start. Otherwise, we set out a little later to travel the short distance to the magnificent Panorama Route. This breathtaking route is strung along the escarpment that dramatically divides the central plateau from the low-lying bushveld of the Kruger, offering a day filled with scenic delights. We will visit key highlights including the fascinating Bourke's Luck Potholes, the majestic Three Rondavels, and the panoramic viewpoint of God's Window. We'll then return to our camp in the late afternoon, filled with memories of stunning landscapes.

OVERNIGHT:

Nkambeni Reserve

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 4:   Head to eSwatini (formerly Swaziland)

We begin our day early with some coffee and traditional rusks before setting off through the Kruger National Park en-route to Eswatini. Our vehicle provides an excellent platform for continued game viewing as we travel south. We will exit the southern end of the park and travel the short distance to the Eswatini border. Our route this afternoon winds through the picturesque mountains and lush forests of this unique landlocked kingdom. Our destination for the day is the Ezulwini Valley, located just south of the capital city, Mbabane.

OVERNIGHT:

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 5:   A day to explore the Kingdom of eSwatini

Today, you will have the opportunity to delve deeper and explore your surroundings in the Kingdom of Eswatini. Officially known as the Kingdom of Eswatini, this country is landlocked, meaning it has no coastline and is completely surrounded by South Africa. While here, you might like to try some key Swazi phrases, such as "Sawubona" for Hello, or "Yebo" for Yes. The day offers flexibility to experience the local culture and natural beauty at your leisure. Our crew will help you to arrange a selection of optoinal (not included) activities such as game drives, hiking or mountain biking. 

OVERNIGHT:

Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 6:   Spend the night in the heart of Zululand St Lucia

Today, we bid farewell to the Kingdom of Eswatini and re-enter South Africa. Our journey continues south into the historical reaches of Zululand, a region once proudly ruled by the mighty King Shaka, who famously united the various Zulu clans. We will travel towards the coastal town of St Lucia, preparing for our next adventure.

OVERNIGHT:

Forest Lodge

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 7:   Hluhluwe – Umfolozi Game Reserve and iSimangaliso Wetland Park

We set out early this morning for an exciting game drive in the nearby Hluhluwe-Imfolozi Game Reserve. This reserve is critically important as it represents one of the last strongholds for the endangered rhinoceros. While rhinoceros are undoubtedly the most famous inhabitants, the park also provides a sanctuary for many other species, including all members of the Big-5 that we hope to encounter. After our game drive, we'll return to our lodging for a well-deserved siesta before freshening up for an enjoyable afternoon boat cruise on the scenic St Lucia estuary.

OVERNIGHT:

Forest Lodge

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 8:   Kwa Zulu Natal Coast - Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park

Our journey today takes us along the Kwa-Zulu Natal province to the magnificent Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park, a UNESCO recognised World Heritage site. Whether you refer to it by its Zulu name uKhahlamba, meaning 'barrier of spears', or its Afrikaans name Drakensberge, meaning 'dragon mountains', these towering peaks will form our spectacular backdrop for the next two nights. En route, we will make a stop to view the picturesque Howick Falls and visit the significant nearby site that marked the capture of South Africa's most revered figure, Nelson Mandela.

OVERNIGHT:

Monks Cowl

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 9:   UKhahlamba Drakensberg Park

This morning, we set out for a lengthy hike amidst the stunning scenery of Ukhahlamba Drakensberg Park. While we encourage everyone to embrace the opportunity to explore the mountains, we may offer separate options depending on the activity level and preferences of the group. With a number of trails available, we can ensure that we cater to various needs; the most important aim is to ensure everyone enjoys this mountain paradise at their own comfortable pace.

OVERNIGHT:

Monks Cowl

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 10:   Head to the 'Kingdom in the Sky' - Lesotho

Our journey today begins with a spectacular mountain pass as our route winds its way through the magnificent cliffs of the Golden Gate National Park. In the afternoon, we enter Lesotho, often referred to as the 'Kingdom in the Sky' due to its high altitude. We will pass by the capital city of Maseru as we continue our climb to our base, nestled high among the impressive mountain peaks.

OVERNIGHT:

Malealea Lodge

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 11:   Lesotho

The crisp, clean air of the mountains accompanies us this morning as we set out to explore the unique and adventurous landscape of the surrounding area. We will embark on a trail, exploring on foot for a couple of hours, allowing us to fully appreciate the rugged beauty of Lesotho. This day offers a chance to experience the local life and stunning natural wonders of this mountain kingdom.

OVERNIGHT:

Malealea Lodge

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 12:   To South Africa - Graaff Reinet

Today, we return to South Africa, descending from the mountains of Lesotho and setting our course across the vast expanse of the Great Karoo. The semi-arid Karoo represents the heartland of rural South Africa and presents a stark contrast to the dramatic mountains we leave behind. Our overnight stop is set in the historic town of Graaff-Reinet, which holds the distinction of being the fourth oldest town in the country. During our journey through this extensive countryside, we will also cross the mighty Orange (Gariep) River.

OVERNIGHT:

Profcon Resort

MEALS:

Breakfast, Dinner

EXTRAS:

None


Day 13:   Gqeberha / Great Addo Area

This morning, you will have the enriching opportunity to join a sunrise excursion to the breathtaking Valley of Desolation. This unique valley offers a panoramic view over the historic town and the wide, open plains stretching out below. Setting our course for the coast once again, we'll traverse the open plains of the Karoo before heading to the famous Addo Elephant National Park. Here, we will enjoy a half-day game drive in our vehicle, eagerly searching for the renowned elephants that call Addo home.

OVERNIGHT:

Garden Court Kings Beach Hotel

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

None


Day 14:   Tour ends in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth)

Today your tour will come to an end after breakfast in Gqeberha. We can assist with arranging extra nights and airport transfers. 

OVERNIGHT:

N/A

MEALS:

Breakfast

EXTRAS:

Extra day in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) - post-tour
Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Transfer - Departure


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Included:
  • 13 nights accommodation camping or lodges/hotels & camps
  • All transport using a 12 seater quamtum style vehicle
  • A range of inclusions as outlined in the itinerary
  • Qualified crew
  • National Park entrance fees
  • Local guides for sightseeing tours and activities as per the itinerary
  • Meals as outlined in the itinerary

Excluded:
  • International flights (available on request)
  • Visa fees if required
  • Optional activities (see itinerary)
  • Travel insurance (mandatory, get quote here)
  • Meals not indicated in the itinerary
  • Drinks, snacks, tips and other personal expenses (e.g. laundry)
  • Tips for guides and drivers
  • Entrance fees and activities not mentioned in itinerary
  • Any other items not mentioned above

Dates and Prices

Please plan to add at least 1 extra day before & after your tour. Extensions are available to start the tour in Cape Town if you wish. Please ask for details. Private charters are also available on any date.

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10th of Aug 2025

23rd of Aug 2025

Rs263189.00

 


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6th of Sep 2025

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14th of Dec 2025

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28th of Dec 2025

10th of Jan 2026

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8th of Feb 2026

21st of Feb 2026

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8th of Mar 2026

21st of Mar 2026

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3rd of May 2026

16th of May 2026

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31st of May 2026

13th of Jun 2026

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26th of Jul 2026

8th of Aug 2026

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20th of Sep 2026

3rd of Oct 2026

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18th of Oct 2026

31st of Oct 2026

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15th of Nov 2026

28th of Nov 2026

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13th of Dec 2026

26th of Dec 2026

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Accommodation

The hotels and accommodations listed below are the ones we most often use on this tour. From time to time we may exchange these for similar properties at the same level. In general, specific hotels cannot be guaranteed on our group tours, but you may select your preferred options if you are booking a tailor-made trip.

Nkambeni Safari Camp

Nkambeni Safari Camp

Kruger National Park

Local rating

Our rating

 Nkambeni Safari Camp Nkambeni Safari Camp

At Nkambeni Safari Camp we are committed to the preservation of pristine wilderness areas and providing you with the true experience of the wonderful scenery of the Lowveld of Mpumalanga.

Nkambeni Tented Camp offers a wide range of outstanding facilities to make your stay in the Kruger Park an enjoyable and true nature experience.  There are tons of activities in and around the Kruger National Park for you to experience the wonderful scenery the Lowveld has to offer.

The accommodation at Nkambeni Safari Camp consists of 146 beautifully appointed luxury timber and canvas tented suites.

  • Two extra length beds
  • Two fold out bunk beds for the kids
  • Bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower
  • Air conditioner
  • Self-help coffee station in each room

No concrete and no foundations means no damage! In addition, the construction is low maintenance and this means that annual levies will remain well below industry norms. Combine these principles with luxury and comfort and enjoy the accommodation at Nkambeni Tented Lodge.

Construction at Nkambeni Tented Lodge conforms to the highest standards of low impact eco-friendly criteria.

Facilities include:

  • A large dining area overlooking the Kruger National Park that offers A la carte as well as buffet meals.
  • A fully lisenced bar area
  • A lounge area where you can enjoy a sundowner with your friends and family.
  • A large swimming pool and leisure area overlooking a dam where Hippo and other wildlife often visit.
  • A Lapa for evening braais ideal for larger groups and / or functions. Typical African entertainment can be arranged on request. 
  • An African curio shop.
  • Overlander facilities and ablutions for overlander stay overs.
  • Then of course, our excellent tented accommodation.

At Nkambeni Safari Camp we are committed to the preservation of pristine wilderness areas and providing you with the true experience of the wonderful scenery of the Lowveld of Mpumalanga.

Nkambeni Tented Camp offers a wide range of outstanding facilities to make your stay in the Kruger Park an enjoyable and true nature experience.  There are tons of activities in and around the Kruger National Park for you to experience the wonderful scenery the Lowveld has to offer.

The accommodation at Nkambeni Safari Camp consists of 146 beautifully appointed luxury timber and canvas tented suites.

  • Two extra length beds
  • Two fold out bunk beds for the kids
  • Bathroom with an indoor and outdoor shower
  • Air conditioner
  • Self-help coffee station in each room

No concrete and no foundations means no damage! In addition, the construction is low maintenance and this means that annual levies will remain well below industry norms. Combine these principles with luxury and comfort and enjoy the accommodation at Nkambeni Tented Lodge.

Construction at Nkambeni Tented Lodge conforms to the highest standards of low impact eco-friendly criteria.

Facilities include:

  • A large dining area overlooking the Kruger National Park that offers A la carte as well as buffet meals.
  • A fully lisenced bar area
  • A lounge area where you can enjoy a sundowner with your friends and family.
  • A large swimming pool and leisure area overlooking a dam where Hippo and other wildlife often visit.
  • A Lapa for evening braais ideal for larger groups and / or functions. Typical African entertainment can be arranged on request. 
  • An African curio shop.
  • Overlander facilities and ablutions for overlander stay overs.
  • Then of course, our excellent tented accommodation.

Garden Court OR Tambo

Garden Court OR Tambo

Johannesburg

Local rating

Our rating

 Garden Court OR Tambo Garden Court OR Tambo

The Garden Court OR Tambo International Airport offers the ideal blend of convenience and comfort for travelers passing through South Africa's busiest airport. Located mere minutes from OR Tambo's terminals, this hotel is a haven for those with layovers or early departures.

GUEST ROOMS

Unwind in rooms designed for your relaxation, with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and modern amenities to make your stay enjoyable.

FACILITIES

Delicious Dining: Savor a range of meals and drinks at the hotel's restaurant and cozy Irish pub.
Refreshing Pool: Take a dip in the outdoor pool nestled within a charming courtyard.
Business-Friendly: Stay productive with conference venues suitable for meetings of various sizes.
Complimentary Airport Shuttle: Eliminate the hassle of airport transfers with the hotel's free shuttle service.

The Garden Court OR Tambo International Airport offers the ideal blend of convenience and comfort for travelers passing through South Africa's busiest airport. Located mere minutes from OR Tambo's terminals, this hotel is a haven for those with layovers or early departures.

GUEST ROOMS

Unwind in rooms designed for your relaxation, with comfortable beds, private bathrooms, and modern amenities to make your stay enjoyable.

FACILITIES

Delicious Dining: Savor a range of meals and drinks at the hotel's restaurant and cozy Irish pub.
Refreshing Pool: Take a dip in the outdoor pool nestled within a charming courtyard.
Business-Friendly: Stay productive with conference venues suitable for meetings of various sizes.
Complimentary Airport Shuttle: Eliminate the hassle of airport transfers with the hotel's free shuttle service.

Options

Our tours are designed to include all that you need to enjoy a really special time in the destination you‘re visiting. However, we do also offer some extra options to complement the tour and add some additional sightseeing or activities, or some extra time at either end of the tour.

All accommodation based options (e.g. Single supplements, extra nights, cruise upgrades) should be booked and paid for in advance so that we can make the appropriate arrangements. Other options may either be booked and paid for in advance or while you are on the tour, though we recommend booking in advance to ensure there are no issues with availability.

Many options are priced the same throughout the year, but some may incur single or high season supplements - full details are given on the tour reservation form or on request.

Options available while on tour (SAOVBF)

From On Request *

Options available while on tour (SAOVBF)

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


These options are availabile while you are on the tour from local activity providers who your booking will be with. Prices are given as a guide and are subject to change.

South Africa

  • Addo National Park
    • Sunset or Evening Game Drive (excl Conservation fees) | R530 to R630
  • Greater Kruger
    • Morning Bush Walk (incl Conservation fees) | R1050 to R1150
    • Evening Game Drive (incl Conservation fees) | R980 to R1080

Lesotho

  • Malealea
    • Pony Trekking excursion (Waterfall Trek or Bushman Painting) (min 2 pax) | R350 to R580
  •  

Extra day in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) - post-tour

From Rs5949*

Extra day in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) - post-tour

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 2 person/s


This option adds an extra day to the start of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability). Airport transfers are not included, but are available as an additional option. Prices shown are per person and based on two people sharing.

Note: Single room and peak season supplements apply.

 

Extra day in Johannesburg - pre-tour

From Rs5949*

Extra day in Johannesburg - pre-tour

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 2 person/s


This option adds an extra day to the start of your tour, staying in the same hotel as the main tour itself (subject to availability). Airport transfers are not included, but are available as an additional option. Prices shown are per person and based on two people sharing.

Note: Single room and peak season supplements apply.

Arrival airport transfer in Johannesburg (free shuttle)

From On Request *

Arrival airport transfer in Johannesburg (free shuttle)

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This option adds an arrival airport transfer in Johannesburg to your Overland tour with us (arriving at Johannesburg airport). This is operated as a free of charge shuttle provided by the Garden Court at OR Tambo Airport

Note: We subcontract our airport transfers, so your transfer representative will not have any information about your tour with us, or be able to assist you beyond the transfer itself.

Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Transfer - Departure

From Rs3139*

Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) Transfer - Departure

Min numbers: 1 *Based on 1 person/s


This option adds a departure airport transfer in Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth) to your Overland tour with us. 

Note: We subcontract our airport transfers, so your transfer representative will not have any information about your tour with us, or be able to assist you beyond the transfer itself.

Tour Notes

The detailed Tour Notes below have been written to give you some more detailed information about how the tour runs, what to expect, and how to prepare for your holiday. We recommend downloading an up to date copy of these shortly before you travel in case of any changes.

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  1. Accommodation

This tour is designed to bridge the gap between a basic camping tour and an expensive lodge holiday. So, we use good quality hotels, lodges and camps rated at the local 2 to 4-star level, with the majority of rooms en-suite. In some places more basic properties with separate bathrooms, or permanent safari tents may be used. We aim always to use accommodation that is in keeping with the local area so there is a good variety. Local star ratings may vary slightly from international standards. Accommodation is based on twin or double rooms, chalets, bungalows or safari tents. All couples will be given a private double room. Friends booking together will also share a room. 

Please check the Single Room Supplement option for details on room sharing options and charges for solo travellers on this tour.

Note - Accommodation providers are subject to change without notice. The properties listed are our preferred options, but sometimes due to availability or other issues with the property, we may substitute another property of similar standards.


  2. Transport

The majority of this tour will be operated using a 12 seater Quantum style minibus, though we will also utliise smaller 4x4 vehicles for some of the included game drive activities. 


  3. International Flights and Airport Transfers

International Flights: We want to give you as much flexibility as possible when it comes to booking your holiday with us. So, to take account of people living in different places and with varying travel plans, except on some Escorted Tours and package promotions, we don’t include your international flights in the main tour price. We are however very happy to suggest flights to go with the tour. Please contact us with your preferred dates and departure airport and we’ll give you a selection of airlines, times and fares to choose from.

The vast majority of our tours are designed such that you can arrive and depart at any time on the first and last days of the set tour itinerary, with your arrival and departure airport transfers included in the tour price. However, on our Overland tours, you should not arrange your onward international flights or other travel for the day the tour is due to end (unless the final day does not involve any travelling and finishes after breakfast). Similarly, many of our Overland tours depart their first port of call on the first morning, and you will therefore need to plan for any flights to arrive at least one day beforehand.

Airport Transfers: Arrival and departure airport transfers are included on Small Group, Shoestring and Tailor-made tours but available as extra options on all our African Overland tours, as long as you have accommodation booked with us on that day. If you add extra accommodation before and/or after the tour that you do not book with us, then you will also need to arrange your own airport transfers.

Departure Taxes: Various countries may require that you pay an Airport Departure Tax when departing on an international flight. Please note that all departure taxes must be paid in hard cash currency and US Dollars are normally the best currency to use for this. Departure taxes can vary from US$10 - US$60 depending on the departure point. 

Flight inclusive packages: We do also sometimes advertise flight inclusive packages from selected airports. Where these are shown on our website, prices are correct at the time of quoting, but are subject to continued availability of the fare used. Prices will be reconfirmed at the time of booking, and we will also provide the flight times and airline details before tickets are issued. 
Flight inclusive prices are based on the cheapest Economy ticket class available which is generally non-refundable and non-changeable unless the flight is cancelled for reasons such as Covid-19, in which case the airlines are more flexible. More flexible ticket options, as well as Premium Economy and Business Class tickets are available on request for an additional supplement. Any changes made to flight inclusive bookings will be subject to the airline rules on your ticket. 

Flight CO2 Emissions:

Traveling by air is an amazing way to explore the world, but flights also contribute to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions that impact the environment. By considering the airline's CO2 emissions when you choose your flight, you can help minimize your travel footprint.

When selecting your international flights and airline, we do therefore recommend that you try and also take into account the flight CO2 emissions. Some airlines and flight search websites (eg. Google Flights, Skyscanner) do publish this information, so you can compare between your flight options and make an informed decision. Thankfully, many airlines are working towards sustainability efforts, and choosing a greener option allows you to contribute to positive change while still enjoying your incredible adventure.


  4. Group Size/Tour Leaders/Guides

We are committed to being a small group operator, as we feel this gives everyone in the group the best chance to get to know their fellow travellers and to hear and make the most of their guide. This tour is therefore operated with a maximum group size of 12, using a 12 seater Quantum style minibus.


  5. Local Options

On all our Overland tours we strive to strike a balance between including plenty of meals, tours and activities and being accessible and affordable.

The main tour price covers all your accommodation, transport, meals and a range of tours and activities.

In addition, there are further Locally Available Options on this tour. These have been chosen to give you more of a taste of what is available in the region and sometimes to offer an adrenaline rush during a relatively sedate tour. All these local options are offered and operated by professional local activity providers and Encounters Travel is not responsible for your booking or time while taking any of these options. Prices for these options may be given on our website, but please bear in mind that are given as a guide only and may very seasonally and can change from time to time. Availability is subject to seasonal daylight hours and our time-keeping that day.

Please check the Options section for more information and prices.

  6. Tipping

In general tipping in restaurants is expected and is around 10% for good service, more if you have received exceptional service, and, feel free not to tip at all if you received poor service. Tipping taxi drivers etc is really at your own discretion and not always expected. If in doubt please ask your guides. It is expected to tip porters and car guards etc. Ask your guides how much is appropriate in local currency. The recommended amount for Serengeti and Masai Mara guides is around USD5-7 per client per day.

Our guides do work hard but they are also paid at (and often above) industry levels for this work. Our Crew can be tipped if you feel that they have done a good job and/or gone above and beyond the call of duty. The best way to arrange tips is to elect one person in the group to collect the money. On Small Group & Shoestring tours we recommend around USD 3-5 per person per day per guide as a fair tip. On longer Overland tours we recommend USD1-2 per day per person, per guide as a fair tip. So if you have 2-crew on a tour, we would recommend that 2 envelopes are used and each crew member’s name written on one. Place what you feel is fair into each envelope and the elected person can give these to the crew at the end of the tour. If you do not feel that the crew deserve a tip, please, do not tip them. You must remember that tipping is only for exceptional service and is not at all compulsory or expected.


  7. Health and Vaccinations

You should ensure you are fully insured for medical emergencies including emergency evacuation and repatriation.

Recommended vaccinations and other health protection measures vary according to the country you are visiting and where you are travelling from. We recommend you contact your GP/medical practitioner or a travel clinic for current information on vaccinations needed for your destination. You should ensure that you are up to date with vaccines and boosters recommended for your normal life at home, including for example, vaccines required for occupational risk of exposure, lifestyle risks and underlying medical conditions. In addition, additional courses or boosters normally recommended for the countries in this region are:

South Africa: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Namibia: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Botswana: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted or travelled through an infected area.
Zimbabwe: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Zambia: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Malawi: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Tanzania: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area.
Kenya: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Poliomyelitis, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Uganda: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from an infected area.
Sudan: Additional vaccinations: Diphtheria, Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid, Yellow Fever. Malaria map. Yellow Fever certificate: Required if arriving from or having transitted through an infected area. A certificate may also be required for those departing Sudan.
Morocco: Additional vaccinations: Hepatitis A, Tetanus, Typhoid. Malaria not normally present. Yellow Fever certificate not required.

The above information can change at short notice. For up to date health information & vaccination requirements we recommend that you contact your medical practitioner or a travel clinic.

Malaria: Vaccinations are not available against Malaria, which is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes that can be very serious and sometimes fatal. You should avoid mosquito bites by covering up bare skin with clothing such as long sleeves and long trousers and applying insect repellents to exposed skin. When necessary, sleep under a mosquito net. Mosquitoes are most active during and after sunset. You should consult with your GP/medical practitioner/travel clinic about the most appropriate malaria prophylactic medication to take for the regions you are visiting.

Yellow Fever: This disease is spread by infected mosquitoes that bite during the day. A Yellow Fever Certificate of vacinnation is often required as a condition of entry depending on which country you are arriving from, or that you have travelled or transitted through recently (including connecting flights with stopovers of over 12 hours). You can view this US CDC information about where the virus is present and follow the links to further information detailing which countries need you to have a Yellow Fever vaccination as part of their entry requirements. Please ensure you have this certificate organised in advance and with you and to hand during the trip.

Please inform us of any pre-existing conditions such as diabetes or asthma and any prescription medicine you may be taking. We also need to know about any food allergies or physical disabilities that you may have.
If you are travelling on an Overland tour or your trip includes wildlife safaris then please bear in mind that you may be travelling on bumpy roads and/or rough ground for several hours at a time. This can be very uncomfortable or painful if you have a bad back, and make such conditions worse. Please contact us if you have any concerns.

Health Declaration: As many of our Africa tours travel through very remote regions, where medical facilities are limited, we are asking all of our travellers 65 years and over who are joining one of our Africa Overland Adventures to complete the attached medical questionnaire. The information provided to Encounters Travel and our local operational partners will be held to the strictest confidence and will be used only to the extent to provide necessary emergency medical care and/or evaluate physical health and fitness for travel.

We will request this from you approximately 30 days before your trip starts, so that your GP can sign your form based on your current health conditions. Please don't submit this several months in advance, as it is important for us to know you are fit for travel just before the trip departs.

  8. Passports and Visas

Passports should be valid for at least six months after your departure from the country. Please do not bring an almost full or almost expired passport. Visa arrangements are the responsibility of the traveller, and requirements are subject to change by the local authorities. Encounters Travel will not be held responsible if travellers are denied entry because they are not in possession of the relevant visas. We therefore recommend you re-check requirements with the relevant embassy/consulate around 4 weeks before travel.

You should also be in possession of a valid onward or return flight ticket, or proof of other means of transport enabling you to leave the country that your tour passes through or finishes in. In addition you should carry proof of sufficient funds to cover you during your time in the country (eg. credit card).

Should your tour be re-entering a country, please ensure that you have a multiple entry visa that allows this. Some countries have a visa on arrival service which can be more convenient and cheaper. However, for peace of mind and to speed up the border crossing process, Encounters Travel advises that you to get your visas prior to your trip if possible.


  9. What to take

LUGGAGE ALLOWANCES: Most international airlines restrict you to between 20kg and 23kg per person of luggage to go in the hold of the plane. Domestic flights often have smaller allowances around 15kg. As airline rules vary we recommend that you take no more than 20kg of luggage if your tour just includes international flights, and no more than 15kg if there are any domestic flights included in your itinerary. Please ask us for details if you are unsure about luggage allowances on your tour. Any excess baggage fees will be your responsibility to cover. Most airlines allow between 5kg and 10kg for hand luggage so we suggest that you take no more than 5kg unless you have confirmed that your airline(s) will allow more than this.

OVERLAND AND SAFARI TOURS: Please keep in mind that these are adventure tours in an adventure vehicle (truck or 4x4) and luggage should not include any solid Samsonite style suitcases. On our accommodated overland tours most of our trucks have lockers for the luggage (locker sizes: 37,5 cm high, 32 cm wide, 80 cm deep). Only a soft bag will fit in these lockers. A suitcase is far more difficult to store and make secure in our vehicle and this is part of the reason we ask for a backpack or tote bag to be used as your luggage. The other reason is that you need to walk from the truck to the accommodation and often over sand or uneven terrain.  Your luggage on our Overland tours is limited to ONE backpack and ONE daypack weighing no more than 20kg. As a general rule, if you cannot lift your own luggage - you’ve got too much stuff! Most people make the mistake of bringing too many clothes. A quick reminder - suitcases are not suitable on our overland tours – especially huge Samsonite-style cases! Small wheeled cases are OK for safari tours.

SUGGESTED PACKING LIST: Kit for all weather conditions including: • 2/3 shorts/skirts • 1 jacket/anorak • Tracksuit/pullover • 2 pairs of long pants/jeans • 2 pairs of walking shoes/boots/trainers • 1 pair of sandals • 3 or 4 T-shirts/short sleeve shirts or sundresses • 2/3 Long Sleeve Shirts • Smart casual change of clothes • Swimwear • Underwear & socks • Sun Hat – preferably that covers the back of your neck. • Raincoat • Kikoi/sarong

Your clothing should be easy to wash and dry and should preferably not need ironing. Avoid synthetics, which can be very uncomfortable in hot weather. Many people underestimate how cold Africa can be – remember that jersey/jacket! There are also nights that are warm but you must still wear clothes that cover arms and legs from mosquitoes. Take a set of casual but smart clothes for the occasional evening out in a restaurant or club. If you wear glasses (or contacts) it is also advisable to bring a spare pair.

While on wildlife safaris it is important to wear dull coloured clothing - olive, mushroom, brown, khaki, stone are ideal.
You should avoid white (stands out too much), black or blue (attracts tsetse flies), and camouflage (illegal in many countries for civilians)

Additional Items: • Towel & facecloth • Baby wipes/ Wet Wipes • Personal toiletries • Sleeping bag • Torch & enough spare batteries • Camera & spare batteries and memory cards • Water bottle. (A 2-litre Coke bottle works well...) • Penknife • Insect and Mosquito repellent • Suntan lotion, sun block & after sun lotion • Sunglasses • Watch • Biodegradable laundry detergent • Passport (plus a copy of your passport & visas) • Extra passport photos • Vaccination certificate • Money • Travel plug • Neck pillow • Small sewing kit • Plastic bags • Clothes line and pegs • Small scrubbing brush • a small padlock for your luggage locker in the truck • Small basic First Aid kit (painkillers, band aids, after-sun lotion, eye drops, anti-diarrhoea tablets etc.)

DAY PACKS: Please check the itinerary for your specific tour if you will need a little daypack. For example on our Cape Town to Vic Falls overland tour you will need a smaller bag, big enough to bring basic equipment (toiletries and clothes) for 2 nights. The daypack is for your Okavango Delta Excursion, where you cannot bring your entire luggage.


  10. Booking & Payment

If you would like to book a place on this tour, please complete the online reservation form on our website (via the Dates & Prices tab on the tour page). You may make a deposit or full payment online, or just hold a reservation if you prefer (full payments are due 8 weeks before departure). We will then contact you with more details about how to complete your booking. Payments may be made by debit or credit card (subject to a card processing fee), or by making a bank transfer, or posting us a cheque/bank draft. Full details will be provided in your booking confirmation email. Please contact us if you would like any more information or have any questions before making a booking.


  11. Travel Insurance

Travel insurance is compulsory on all of our tours and needs to cover personal accident & liability, medical expenses and repatriation, travel delay & abandonment. We also strongly recommend that you take out cover against cancellation and lost/stolen baggage. Personal medical insurance does not normally provide sufficient cover and is generally not suitable for travel on our tours. You will not be able to join your tour if you have not provided us with details of your insurance or if you arrive without cover in place (no refunds will be due in this event).

Considering travel insurance for your trip? World Nomads Travel Insurance offers coverage for more than 150 adventure activities as well as emergency medical, lost luggage, trip cancellation and more.

If your tour includes car hire, or if you plan to arrange a hot air balloon flight locally or do some scuba diving during your tour, you should check the small print in your policy to make sure these are covered (these are covered in our policy). Please also check the maximum altitude that you will be reaching and that full cover including emergency evacuation is provided up to this altitude.

If you are taking expensive camera gear or other electronic equipment with you then please check the coverage and the fine print of your policy to ensure that you have sufficient cover.

IMPORTANT:  We must have your travel insurance details (policy number and type of insurance) before you depart or you may not be allowed to join the tour.  If you haven't told us already, please let us know the details when you can. You should take a paper copy of your insurance policy with you as you may be asked to show this at the start of the tour.

Covid-19
Before purchasing any travel insurance, please check the coverage provided for situations related to Covid-19, and for the rules about government travel advice. Your normal policy may not be suitable.


  12. Financial Security

We are a UK registered company and are committed to providing our customers with financial protection to provide peace of mind and to allow you to book with confidence.
We have therefore partnered with Trust My Travel Ltd., which provides financial protection services to over 2000 partners around the world. Funds paid to us by our customers are protected via an Insurance policy held by Trust My Travel. Each traveller and the description of services sold is declared against Trust My Travel’s insurance policy directly against our financial failure. In the event of our insolvency, you will be refunded for any unfulfilled products and/or repatriation to the UK (where applicable). Please see our website or booking conditions for more information.


  13. Responsible Tourism

It is impossible not to have an impact on the local environment, cultures and eco-systems when you travel. However, it is very possible to try and ensure that these impacts are as limited, or positive as possible. We are committed to ensuring that we try to leave our host countries in a better state than we found them and encourage and assist our travellers to help us with this.
The following are a few simple tips that require very little effort on your part but which will help ensure that any effect you have on the locations you visit is positive rather than negative.

  • Don't prejudge: Things in different countries will almost certainly be different. That doesn't make them worse or inferior, just different.
  • Communicate: Don't expect locals to speak your language. Take the trouble to learn a few words or phrases of the local language. Don't worry about sounding silly. Most locals are patient and accommodating and appreciate you making the effort to communicate in their language.
  • Conserve energy: Be careful not to waste valuable resources. Use local resources sparingly. Switch off lights, air-conditioning and fans when you leave the hotel room and don't waste water. Remove superfluous packaging. Many countries have far less efficient waste disposal systems than ours. Remove packaging from newly acquired items before leaving home.
  • Don't litter: No matter how untidy or dirty the country you're travelling in may look to you, avoid littering, as there is no need to add to the environment's stress. Many of the countries we visit have a tough challenge dealing with rubbish and waste. Please consider taking home as much plastic waste as you can (e.g. water bottles).
  • Choose environmentally friendly products: By using environmentally friendly (bio degradable) sun creams, shampoos and detergents you can help reduce pollution.
  • Respect local customs and traditions: As you are a guest in these countries, you should also comply with the local customs. If you are friendly and well mannered, the locals will reciprocate and it will only enhance your experience. It's important to follow dress and behaviour guidelines especially when visiting religious or sacred sites (your tour leader will advise you how best to do this).
  • If a client commits an illegal act the client may be excluded from the tour and Encounters Travel shall cease to have responsibility to/for them. No refund will be given for any unused services.

All porters are employed and equipped following guidelines set by the International Porter Protection Group (IPPG).


  14. Destination Guides

Kwa Madwala Reserve
Kwa Madwala, meaning ‘place of rock’, is an independent wildlife conservancy covering 4,000 hectares of the Lowveld just south of the mighty Kruger National Park. It is relatively new, started 10 years ago, and has a well-managed eco-system supporting lion, elephant, rhino, leopard and a wide variety of other general game as well as a diverse birdlife. The focus is not only on the big game here, but also the small and the rare. Due to the small size of the reserve, guests can expect to get close to most species on a game drive. Kwa Madwala has also initiated a Leopard Conservation Project to provide a safe haven for leopards in the area, and to gradually increase their numbers.

Kruger National Park
Established in 1898 to protect the wildlife of the South African Lowveld, this national park of nearly 2 million hectares is unrivalled in the diversity of its wildlife and a world leader in advanced environmental management techniques and policies. Approximately 145 mammal species including the ‘Big Five’, a list of over 500 bird species, some of which are not to be found elsewhere in South Africa, and 336 tree species occur in the park.
When the first tourist cars visited the park in 1927, they made their own camps in thorn-bush enclosures and had to carry weapons to protect themselves from predators. During the Second World War the park was closed to the public, and reopened in 1946 under new management. Today it is one of the most famous safari destinations in the world with all the facilities that one would expect from a world class holiday destination, but it has retained the untamed, unspoilt environment where you can experience Africa just as you imagined it.

Panorama Route
The Panorama route in Mpumalanga follows the edge of Blyde River Canyon, and includes some breathtaking views of the Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the Pinnacle. Blyde River Canyon is the third largest canyon in the world, and got its name in 1840 (‘blyde’ meaning ‘joyful’) from the Voortrekkers who passed through on their way to Lorenzo Marques (now Mozambique).
It is one of the most spectacular canyons in Africa and its cliffs rise between 600 m-800 m from the riverbed. Possibly the best view in the whole of the Blyde River Canyon is of the "Three Rondavels - three huge rock spirals rising out of the far wall of the canyon. Their tops appear to have a hut-like rounded roof. They are named after the Swazi Chief Maripi’s wives - from the lowest to the highest, they are Magabolle, Mogoladikwe and Maserote.
Where the Blyde River and the Treur River meet, water erosion has formed one of the most remarkable geological phenomena in the country, known as ‘Bourke’s Luck Potholes’. Over thousands of years, surreal cylindrical rock sculptures created by whirling water have formed a series of dark pools which contrast artfully with the streaked white and yellow lichen covered rocks.
Following the road and the Treur River south, there are further viewpoints; Wonder View, God’s Window and the Pinnacle.

Johannesburg
Johannesburg is the largest and most populated city in South Africa, and the second largest city in Africa, after Cairo. Gold was discovered in the mineral rich Witwatersrand in 1886 by an Australian prospector, George Harrison. This discovery started a major gold rush as fortune hunters came to the area from all over the world. A huge labour force of contract workers sprang up to work in the mines and within three years Johannesburg became the largest settlement in South Africa.
It is now the economic and financial core of the country, and although mining is no longer practiced within the city bounds, the headquarters of most of the mining companies can be found here.
Johannesburg is also known as the world’s largest human-made forest, with over 10 million trees planted throughout the city.


  15. Follow Us Online

You can stay in touch with us online by following us on Facebook and Twitter. We post updates on relevant travel news in our destination countries, special offers and discounts and other interesting travel related news and information.
www.facebook.com/encounterstravel
www.twitter.com/encounterstravl (yes, without the 'e')


  16. Before you travel

It is important when considering and preparing to travel anywhere in the world that you have a good understanding of the country you are visiting, its laws and customs, and the possible risks and situations that may occur. This includes specific risks related to your itinerary (eg. does it involve water & can you swim, are you fit enough for the activities included), as well as more general risks such as terrorism and natural disasters.

General details and links to more information about health risks, visa requirements, money, and travel insurance are given in these tour notes. We recommend that you re-read all these before your departure as well as the small print of your travel insurance policy so you know exactly what is covered and what is not.

You should take copies of your important travel documents with you and ideally also store them online securely as a backup. Make sure that you have given us your emergency contact details and told that person where and when you are travelling. Ensure you take enough money with you and that you have access to emergency funds.

Finally, you should read through and stay updated with the current official government travel advice for your destination. We are registered partners with the UK Foreign Office's 'Travel Aware' campaign which provides further useful and invaluable information.

'Travel Aware' campaign


  17. Reduce Plastic Waste with Water-to-Go Filter bottles

Traveling responsibly means minimizing plastic waste, but staying hydrated on the go is essential. At Encounters Travel we are committed to reducing single-use plastics, which is why we've partnered with Water-to-Go. Their portable filtration system removes over 99.9% of contaminants from any non-saltwater source, turning even questionable water sources into safe drinking water.

Given that tap water is un-safe to drink in many of the countries in which we operate, we recommend purchasing a Water-to-Go bottle prior to departure. This will help you avoid the use of single use plastic bottles and keep you hydrated on the go.

Save big! Get a huge 25% off your Water-to-Go bottle and other Water-to-Go products (such as filters, lids, and carriers). Use code ENCOUNTERS25 at checkout (valid in the UK, USA and Canada).

How Water-to-Go Technology works:

  • Their reusable, BPA free water bottles contain their own unique 3-in-1 filtration technology effectively providing clean safe drinking water from any non-salt water source around the world.
  • Three different (1 traditional and 2 nano) technologies are combined in one filter cartridge to remove up to 99.9999% of microbiological contaminants in water.

The three technologies used in a Water-to-Go filter are:

  • Mechanical filtration – A tiny pore size, so small contaminants can’t fit through.
  • Electrical – A positive charge reduces the pore size even further and attracts contaminants like a magnet, trapping them inside the filter.
  • Activated Carbon – Unlike most carbon based filters, instead of using adhesives to glue the carbon particles together, (which vastly reduces the carbon’s efficiency) it is contained within the membrane, helping to reduce contaminants whilst eliminating bad tastes and odours. Try filtering water from your tap at home and taste the difference!

Water-to-Go filter bottles deliver safe, healthy water worldwide

  • Water-to-Go filters remove bacteria, viruses, waterborne disease, protozoa, heavy metals such as lead as well as harmful chemicals.
  • Their filters remove Chlorine and Fluoride from tap water.
  • The filter will eliminate harmful contaminants from the water but allow beneficial minerals such as sodium and magnesium to pass through leaving you with the healthiest water possible.
  • Water-to-Go filters have been independently tested against internationally recognised standards by industry specialists including The London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (UK), BCS Laboratories (USA), Bangalore Test House (India) and IMI (China).

Use Water-to-Go products and you’ll be healthier, wealthier and helping to make the world a better place!

  • Depending on filter size, each Water-to-Go filter is able to replace 260 or 400 single-use plastic water bottles!
  • They ensure you have access to safe water anywhere in the world without ever having to buy environmentally damaging bottled water.
  • Their water bottles deliver safe, clean drinking water at just 5p per litre.
  • The filter membrane is biodegradable and the shrouds are recyclable.
  • The water bottles are used and approved by everyone from backpackers to commuters, gym users to expecting mums. Perfect for everyday, outdoor and travel.

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