18 Days South Africa - Circling The North With Kruger - Beach Tour

Welcome to South Africa, nayimkelekile, baie welkom! As you walk out of O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg – Africa’s biggest and busiest airport – you head straight to your rental car pick-up place. This is where your adventure begins! This self-driving journey is all about freedom: explore at your own pace, tailor your days with exciting activities, and decide when to stop and soak it all in. With our travel guide full of top spots, local tips and charming padstalls, you’re set for an unforgettable road trip...!

Activities:

Drive from Johannesburg to Tshwane (Pretoria)
Head out of 'Jozi' and make your way to Tshwane (Pretoria), a town much more low-key than Johannesburg but still full of adventure. It's only a 45-minute (under 60 kilometres) drive via the N1 highway. Tshwane is the administrative capital of South Africa, where, in springtime, 40,000 jacaranda trees bloom and turn the city into a purple paradise – hence its nickname Jacaranda City. Upon arrival, you can either check into your hotel and unwind after the long flight or head out to explore the city!

Accommodations:
Silver - The Regency Apartment Hotel | Menlyn
Gold - Waterkloof Mansion Boutique Hotel
Platinum - Apogee Boutique Hotel and Spa

Activities : Sightseeing

Tshwane (formerly Pretoria and nicknamed 'Jacaranda-city' because of its typical purple-blossomed trees) is a bustling multicultural city with tree-lined streets, skyscrapers, nature reserves and lots of history. Its rich cultural heritage and numerous historic landmarks make this city a must-visit for anyone seeking to learn more about South Africa’s complex past. But the city is more than its colonial legacy! Take your time to explore local markets, fine dining restaurants, live music, art and nature with even game drives or hikes in the mesmerising Groenkloof Nature Reserve... A visit to Tshwane will refresh your body, mind and spirit!

Activities:

Visit the Voortrekkers Museum in Tshwane (Pretoria)
Perched in Pretoria’s leafy Groenkloof area, the Voortrekker Monument is a true heavyweight of South African heritage - quite literally, rising 40 metres above the city. This granite landmark tells the story of the Voortrekker pioneers through dramatic architecture, sculpted reliefs and the impressive Hall of Heroes, depicting their struggles and providing insight into the history and culture of the Dutch pioneers. Step inside for a walk down memory lane, then step outside for a walk through the surrounding nature reserve. Heritage, views and a breath of fresh air! Insider tip: refuel at the nostalgic Skool Op Wiele and don’t skip the milkshakes at the deli on your way out.

Accommodations:
Silver - The Regency Apartment Hotel | Menlyn
Gold - Waterkloof Mansion Boutique Hotel
Platinum - Apogee Boutique Hotel and Spa

Activities : Museums

The journey from Tshwane (formerly Pretoria) to Pilanesberg covers about 170 kilometres and takes roughly 2.5 hours via the N4. Need a quick stop? The small town of Rustenburg has got you covered for a convenient break along the way. Once you arrive, prepare for top-notch game viewing and breathtaking scenery in the fourth-largest national park in the country!

Accommodations:
Silver - The Kingdom Resort
Gold - Morokolo Safari Lodge
Platinum - Tshukudu Bush Lodge

Activities : Game Drives

Pilanesberg National Park lies in a transition zone between the Kalahari and Lowveld, where it covers 550 square kilometres, set in an ancient volcanic crater. The landscape features dramatic rock formations, wooded valleys and historical Stone and Iron Age sites. The Big Five roam freely here, along with over 7,000 other mammals, and the Mankwe Dam is a must-visit for spotting birds and animals gathering to drink. Explore on a self-drive or join a guided game drive; full-day and 3-hour safaris are available. And why not get up early for an unforgettable hot air balloon safari – drifting over the wilderness as the wildlife wakes, before toasting the adventure with some bubbly and indulging in a safari breakfast!

Activities:

Hot air balloon safari in Pilanesberg
Soar silently over Pilanesberg National Park in a hot air balloon and take in sweeping views of this extinct volcanic crater, home to the Big Five. With no turbulence and only the soft hiss of the burner, it’s a tranquil way to experience one of South Africa’s most scenic parks. The experience includes a one-hour flight, sparkling wine on landing, a full English breakfast, a flight certificate and hotel transfers. From above, spot elephants, buffalo, antelope, and – if you're lucky – rhino or lion. It’s a bucket-list moment that offers a unique view of the landscape and wildlife. Book early and prepare for an early start, as the full experience lasts around five hours.

Accommodations:
Silver - The Kingdom Resort
Gold - Morokolo Safari Lodge
Platinum - Tshukudu Bush Lodge

Activities : Hot Air Ballooning

Waterberg lies northeast of Pilanesberg and is easily reached by driving north via the R510 to Northam, then continuing on the N11. From there, follow signs to your chosen destination – whether it’s Bela-Bela, Vaalwater, Welgevonden or something else. The journey covers 200 to 250 kilometres and takes three to four hours, depending on where you're staying. Roads are well signposted, but keep an eye out for your exact location!

Activities:

The Waterberg Biosphere Area
The Waterberg Biosphere in the Limpopo province is an area just three to four hours north of Johannesburg, filled with nature reserves, a few towns and one national park. It offers a rugged escape teeming with wildlife and rare flora (including baobab, marula, and fever trees) and over 200 bird species. This ecologically rich savanna is ideal for game drives and spotting the Big Five, which you normally do in the area where your lodge is located (and is sometimes even included in the price of your overnight stay!). While in the Waterberg Area, don’t miss Adventures With Elephants in Bela-Bela – an unforgettable close-up encounter with Africa’s gentle giants.

Adventure with the Elephants in Bela-Bela
Adventures with Elephants in Bela-Bela is a conservation initiative supporting anti-poaching efforts and fostering a deeper connection between man and elephant through personal, intimate and safe encounters. During the one-hour Educational Experience, you’ll meet these gentle giants up close and learn about their intelligence, trust and complex behaviour. Add-ons include the Elephant Bath, where you can brush and bathe them in the dam (minimum age is 12 years and swimming ability is required), and the Bushwalk Experience, a chance to walk next to them in their natural habitat. Sessions run daily at 9 AM, noon and 3 PM, book in advance! This is a powerful, unforgettable way to reflect on the future of elephant conservation.

Accommodations:
Silver - Waterberg Game Park
Gold - Bushwa Private Game Lodge
Platinum - Bontle Game Lodge

Activities : Sightseeing

The drive from Waterberg to the lush, mountainous region of Magoebaskloof covers 283 kilometres via the N1 and takes just over three hours. As you approach your destination, prepare for scenic landscapes with indigenous forests, dramatic mountain plateaus, deep river gorges and cascading waterfalls. Spend a relaxing afternoon settling in or head out again for the afternoon, because the Magoebaskloof is full of adventure!

Accommodations:
Gold - Bramasole Boutique Hotel
Platinum - Magoebaskloof Africamps

Activities : Sightseeing

Magoebaskloof, nestled in the northeastern tip of the Drakensberg range in Limpopo, is a misty mountain escape filled with lush indigenous forests, crystal-clear streams and rare plant and animal life. The area is perfect for hiking and offers quirky highlights such as the echoing 'huilklip' (weeping rock). Thrill seekers can try the Magoebaskloof Canopy Tour, which makes you slide along 11 ziplines through treetops and past dramatic waterfalls, while vibrant gardens filled with azaleas, orchids, cherry trees and jacarandas will calm you down. After your outdoor adventures, unwind in Haenertsburg’s cosy cafés, galleries and lively craft beer scene – the Cape Parrot Ale is a must-try!

Activities:

Guided canopy tour in Magoebaskloof
Discover a magical place where mountains meet rivers and adventure comes alive. Glide through the forest on a 2.5-hour Tarzan-and-Jane style canopy tour, soaring between platforms built high in the treetops and on ancient mountain cliffs. Each platform is linked by cable slides that whisk you over sparkling rivers, cascading waterfalls, and the lush forest floor below. Pause on the platforms to soak up the tranquillity and natural beauty! Expert guides share fascinating insights about the fauna, flora, and unique Magoebaskloof ecosystem, while ensuring your safety. Suitable for anyone between 7 and 70 with a maximum weight of 120kg - great fun for the whole family, nature lovers and thrill seekers!

Accommodations:
Gold - Bramasole Boutique Hotel
Platinum - Magoebaskloof Africamps

Activities : Hiking

The drive from Magoebaskloof to Hoedspruit is a scenic 135 kilometres and takes 1.5 hours via the R71. It’s a beautiful route through wild and rugged landscapes, so we suggest leaving after breakfast to take it all in at a relaxed pace. Once in Hoedspruit, check into your lodge and explore all the adventures the town has to offer. Or just relax and rest up, as you'll want to make an early start heading into the iconic Kruger National Park tomorrow!

Activities:

Hoedspruit
Hoedspruit is a small town with a big heart, ideally positioned between the Kruger National Park and the awe-inspiring Blyde River Canyon, and as such, your first or last stop on the Panorama Route with its jaw-droppingly beautiful sights. The town is a vibrant base for adventure – think hot air ballooning, boat cruises and quad biking - and Kruger’s backyard, so make sure to keep an eye out for impala, kudu, or even a sneaky leopard to cross your path. Last but not least, this is where you can meet and greet Jessica the (tame!) Hippo.

Meet Jessica the Hippo
Meet Jessica, the world’s most famous hippopotamus, who lives just outside Hoedspruit. Rescued as a calf in 2000 after a huge storm in Kruger National Park, she was raised by locals Tonie and Shirley Joubert - and went on to steal the hearts of people across the globe. Over the years, Jessica has been joined by Seun (another hippo, rescued by the same couple) and her own calm-natured calf Luku, born in 2024. You can book a 'Meet & Feed' session to interact with all three: enjoy a short introduction video, then feed them snacks and tea, give them a backrub with your feet, and spend time with them by the water’s edge. Visits run daily (minimum age is 6 years old), and booking is essential.

Accommodations:
Silver - Leopards Lair Bush Lodge
Gold - Radisson Safari Hotel Hoedspruit
Platinum - Tangala Safari Camp

Activities : Game Drives

The drive from Hoedspruit to the Orpen Gate of Kruger National Park takes less than 30 minutes via the R40, so you’ll be on safari in no time! Upon entering, you’ll receive a detailed map with clearly marked routes leading to rest camps and prime game viewing spots. The open grasslands near Orpen Gate are rich in wildlife, offering superb sightings of the Big Five, as well as cheetahs, African wild dogs, giraffes, and zebras. This area’s mineral-rich sweetveld attracts animals year-round, making it a hotspot for game drives. Be sure to chat with other visitors at the rest camps—you might get a tip on where to run into a buffalo herd of 250 strong!

Accommodations:
Gold - Skukuza Safari Lodge
Platinum - Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge

Activities : Game Drives

If you want a jam-packed wildlife experience, then Kruger National Park will make your dream come true. This park is said to have the highest chance of seeing all the famous Big Five PLUS the Avian Six (six endemic and funny-looking bird species – only to be found in Kruger) in one day. Mind you, this park is massive! With no less than a whopping 2 million hectares, this is the largest (and most famous) national park in South Africa, with almost 150 different mammal species and 500 bird species. You can also visit archaeological sites, learn about Kruger's amazing and turbulent history and check out the wildlife rehabilitation centres.

Accommodations:
Gold - Skukuza Safari Lodge
Platinum - Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge

Activities : Game Drives

If you want a jam-packed wildlife experience, then Kruger National Park will make your dream come true. This park is said to have the highest chance of seeing all the famous Big Five PLUS the Avian Six (six endemic and funny-looking bird species – only to be found in Kruger) in one day. Mind you, this park is massive! With no less than a whopping 2 million hectares, this is the largest (and most famous) national park in South Africa, with almost 150 different mammal species and 500 bird species. You can also visit archaeological sites, learn about Kruger's amazing and turbulent history and check out the wildlife rehabilitation centres.

Accommodations:
Gold - Skukuza Safari Lodge
Platinum - Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge

Activities : Game Drives

If you exit Kruger National Park via the Malelane Gate, it’s just about an hour’s drive (67 kilometres) along the N4 to Nelspruit/Mbombela, where you can marvel at the lush Lowveld and its fruit orchards. After checking into your hotel, consider a visit to the Sudwala Caves on the R539 – the oldest cave system in the world with ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and fossils. Craving a bit more action? Then fly over the breathtaking valley on the Sudwala Zipline!

Activities:

Mbombela (Nelspruit)
Nelspruit or Mbombela (the official name) is known for its lush landscapes, subtropical climate, and its proximity to Kruger National Park. The city blends its rich heritage with modern flair; check the historical walking trail before heading to the shops, lively restaurants and many cultural attractions. Don’t miss the Lowveld National Botanical Garden, home to a man-made rainforest and a rich variety of indigenous flora. Nearby, the ancient Sudwala Caves offer guided tours through the earth’s oldest known cave system, filled with ancient stalactites, stalagmites, and fossils. Craving more thrills? The Sudwala zipline offers a high-flying ride over the stunning valley landscape.

Accommodations:
Silver - Sheppard Boutique Hotel
Gold - Loerie's Call Guesthouse
Platinum - Torburnlea Homestead Luxury Accommodation

Activities : Sightseeing

You trade the calm pace of Nelspruit for St Lucia’s coastal charm. You land at Richards Bay, the closest airport to St Lucia and gateway to the famous iSimangaliso Wetland Park - a journey that takes about four hours. From there, a quick road transfer brings you straight to golden beaches and lush wetlands, where your adventure begins!

Accommodations:
Silver - Leopard Corner Lodge
Gold - At Heritage House
Platinum - Makakatana Bay Lodge

Activities : Beaches Sightseeing

The coastal town of St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal is surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and is a nature lover’s paradise. Think wild coastal forests, golden beaches, abundant birdlife, and free-roaming hippos – yes, they stroll the streets at night! Add to that year-round tropical weather, warm Indian Ocean waters, and an unbeatable mix of adventure and relaxation, and you’ll want to stay longer than just a day. Snorkel at Cape Vidal, cruise with crocs and hippos on the estuary, or even milk a goat at a local cheese farm. St Lucia is wild, wonderful, and waiting!

Activities:

Hippo and crocodile cruise in Saint Lucia
Hop aboard a two-hour cruise in St Lucia and explore one of South Africa’s most iconic estuaries, home to hippos, crocodiles and a dazzling array of birdlife. Cruise 7 kilometres along the calm waters aboard a spacious double-decker boat with panoramic views – perfect pictures guaranteed. Your guide shares fascinating facts about the area’s unique ecology and wildlife as you glide past sunbathing crocs and playful hippos. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink from the onboard cash bar as nature puts on a show. Book ahead and be sure to arrive at the Sunset Jetty 20 minutes before departure.

Accommodations:
Silver - Leopard Corner Lodge
Gold - At Heritage House
Platinum - Makakatana Bay Lodge

Activities : Beaches Sightseeing

The coastal town of St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal is surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and is a nature lover’s paradise. Think wild coastal forests, golden beaches, abundant birdlife, and free-roaming hippos – yes, they stroll the streets at night! Add to that year-round tropical weather, warm Indian Ocean waters, and an unbeatable mix of adventure and relaxation, and you’ll want to stay longer than just a day. Snorkel at Cape Vidal, cruise with crocs and hippos on the estuary, or even milk a goat at a local cheese farm. St Lucia is wild, wonderful, and waiting!

Activities:

Hippo and crocodile cruise in Saint Lucia
Hop aboard a two-hour cruise in St Lucia and explore one of South Africa’s most iconic estuaries, home to hippos, crocodiles and a dazzling array of birdlife. Cruise 7 kilometres along the calm waters aboard a spacious double-decker boat with panoramic views – perfect pictures guaranteed. Your guide shares fascinating facts about the area’s unique ecology and wildlife as you glide past sunbathing crocs and playful hippos. Sit back, relax, and enjoy a drink from the onboard cash bar as nature puts on a show. Book ahead and be sure to arrive at the Sunset Jetty 20 minutes before departure.

Accommodations:
Silver - Leopard Corner Lodge
Gold - At Heritage House
Platinum - Makakatana Bay Lodge

Activities : Beaches Sightseeing

The coastal town of St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal is surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and is a nature lover’s paradise. Think wild coastal forests, golden beaches, abundant birdlife, and free-roaming hippos – yes, they stroll the streets at night! Add to that year-round tropical weather, warm Indian Ocean waters, and an unbeatable mix of adventure and relaxation, and you’ll want to stay longer than just a day. Snorkel at Cape Vidal, cruise with crocs and hippos on the estuary, or even milk a goat at a local cheese farm. St Lucia is wild, wonderful, and waiting!

Activities:

Snorkeling at Cape Vidal
Cape Vidal is a pristine beach within iSimangaliso Wetland Park, just an hour from Saint Lucia, and one of the best places in the country to go snorkeling. On an average outing, you can spot five types of nudibranchs and flatworms, and 50 species of fish (think lionfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, rays and many more). Lucky snorkelers may even encounter turtles, octopus or cuttlefish. Daily guided tours are tide-dependent (book in advance!) and led by experts who know exactly where the fish feed and how to navigate safely around rip currents. The 2-hour experience includes all gear (fins, mask, snorkel) and children are welcome. And no stress – iSimangaliso's marine life thrives in a healthy ecosystem, so even if there were any, people would definitely not be on a shark's menu!

Accommodations:
Silver - Leopard Corner Lodge
Gold - At Heritage House
Platinum - Makakatana Bay Lodge

Activities : Snorkeling

The coastal town of St Lucia in KwaZulu-Natal is surrounded by the iSimangaliso Wetland Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site) and is a nature lover’s paradise. Think wild coastal forests, golden beaches, abundant birdlife, and free-roaming hippos – yes, they stroll the streets at night! Add to that year-round tropical weather, warm Indian Ocean waters, and an unbeatable mix of adventure and relaxation, and you’ll want to stay longer than just a day. Snorkel at Cape Vidal, cruise with crocs and hippos on the estuary, or even milk a goat at a local cheese farm. St Lucia is wild, wonderful, and waiting!

Activities:

Snorkeling at Cape Vidal
Cape Vidal is a pristine beach within iSimangaliso Wetland Park, just an hour from Saint Lucia, and one of the best places in the country to go snorkeling. On an average outing, you can spot five types of nudibranchs and flatworms, and 50 species of fish (think lionfish, angelfish, butterflyfish, rays and many more). Lucky snorkelers may even encounter turtles, octopus or cuttlefish. Daily guided tours are tide-dependent (book in advance!) and led by experts who know exactly where the fish feed and how to navigate safely around rip currents. The 2-hour experience includes all gear (fins, mask, snorkel) and children are welcome. And no stress – iSimangaliso's marine life thrives in a healthy ecosystem, so even if there were any, people would definitely not be on a shark's menu!

Accommodations:
Silver - Leopard Corner Lodge
Gold - At Heritage House
Platinum - Makakatana Bay Lodge

Activities : Snorkeling

The total distance from St Lucia to King Shaka International Airport is 212 kilometres, so it shouldn't take more than 2.5 hours to reach your destination via the N2 highway towards Durban. Enjoy those last views of impressive coastal plains and wetlands. It's a relatively short drive so if you still have a few hours to spare, you might want to insert a quick visit to Durban (another 20 kilometres from the airport, but towards the other side) before you return your car and check in. Depending on which airline you booked your return flight with, you embark on the flight home immediately, or on a domestic flight towards Johannesburg first (as most transcontinental destinations are only served from O.R.Tambo International Airport).

Activities:

Flight home from Durban (not included in the price)
All good things come to an end. It's time to catch your flight home from King Shaka International Airport in Durban.
Sad to leave…? Not to worry! You can still hop on a domestic flight to Cape Town and add a few highlights to your holiday. How about exploring (and tasting) world-class wines, standing on top of Table Mountain and diving into the rich history of the country? Let us know your wishes, and we will gladly organise a holiday extension to help you explore other parts of South Africa. However, if duty calls, we wish you safe travels and hope you had a fantastic holiday!

Activities : Sightseeing