Overview
This 5-day journey lets you see the neighboring private game reserve and Kruger National Park. Our knowledgeable guide for Kruger Park will be with you at all times. After staying at Sabie River Bush Lodge for two nights, go to Hoedspruit and check into a 4-star private Safari Lodge for one night. After checking out of the private lodge, spend your last night at a mid-range Hazyview hotel.
Tour Highlights
- Day 1: Transfer to Kruger National Park - Afternoon Safari Drive - Check into River Lodge
- Day 2: Full Day Game Drives in Kruger National Park - return to River Lodge
- Day 3: Transit Safari Drive via Central Kruger Park - Proceed to Private Game Lodge near Hoedspruit
- Day 4: Sunrise Game Drive - sightseeing at Blyde River Canyon – check into hotel near Hazyview
- Day 5: Relaxing morning - Return Transfer to Johannesburg arriving by 16h00
5-Day Kruger Park, Private Lodge & Panorama Route Itinerary
Our knowledgeable Kruger Park guide will pick you up and drop you off in a seven-seater, air-conditioned microbus when you depart Johannesburg. You'll head east through the farmlands of the Highveld and descend into the Lowveld capital of the province of Mpumalanga, Nelspruit/Mbombela. Enter Southern Kruger Park for your first thrilling game drive after lunch. As you journey through sparsely forested bushveld, you could spot antelope, giraffes, and possibly even elephants. You will drive a short distance to Sabie River Bush Lodge before dusk, where we spend the night. Your reservation will be for a contemporary, air-conditioned lodge room or safari tent with an attached bathroom. There will be time for you to unwind on the terrace while gazing out over the vast Sabie River and maybe spotting some crocodiles or hippos. Your guide will arrange the three-course dinner at the Gecko Lapa restaurant. There is WiFi, so you may stay in contact with loved ones.
Main Destination: Kruger National Park.
Accommodation: Sabie River Bush Lodge
Get a quick cup of coffee in the morning, hop into the safari car, and go on a dawn wildlife drive around Kruger Park. Seek for the Big 5 species by passing through bushveld regions and most likely near rivers (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino, and buffalo). One of the main features of the southern Kruger is the Sabie River, which is lined with enormous trees. It may be rather thrilling to drive along its banks. After around three hours, pause at a camp where your guide will provide you breakfast supplies and let you unwind. Proceed with the midmorning trip, taking in any top sightings of the day that have been recorded. Take a break for refreshments at midday, peruse the curio store, and then resume your afternoon drive, ending back at Sabie River Bush Lodge. Enjoy sundowners on the terrace with a view of the Sabie River and one of the greatest picture ops "on safari in Africa" after taking a swim or simply relaxing. Dine with your guide at the restaurant featuring a diverse cuisine while taking in the sound of the hippos in the river.
Major destination: Kruger National Park.
Accommodation: Sabi River Bush Lodge
Budget lodge less than an hour's drive from Southern Kruger National Park
You will go out on yet another amazing early-morning game drive in search of elusive creatures like leopards, who are frequently discovered in trees. Arrive at Satara Camp for breakfast before continuing north toward the Central Kruger National Park's vast plains. After leaving the park, travel to a private safari lodge close to Hoedspruit. Reserve an air-conditioned African Safari tent or en suite chalet to experience personalized service and a terrific bush setting. It's time to change and have lunch outside in the garden. After a brief dip or a lazy day, get to the safari vehicle at around 16h00 for an evening wildlife drive that stops along the way to see "sundowners." Head back to the lodge for supper, which is usually served around a campfire, and beverages. Overnight while taking in the sounds of hyenas or other nocturnal creatures, which all contribute to an unforgettable experience.
Major Destination: Balule Private Nature Reserve (Greater Kruger)
Accommodation: Mohlabetsi Safari Lodge
Early morning game drives with an armed ranger are great for bird viewing. Before leaving, get back to the lodge to eat a sumptuous breakfast with the other visitors. You spend the remainder of the day touring as you make your way to the breathtaking Blyde River Canyon through the Valley of the Olifants. After visiting the Three Rondawels, continue on the Panorama path, including stops at views and a waterfall. Look about ethnic marketplaces for interesting finds. Once you reach Hazyview, drive over Kowyns Pass and make reservations at your four-star hotel for supper and the night.
Major destination is Hazyview (Town).
Accommodation: Hippo Hollow Country Estate
While having a leisurely breakfast at the hotel, don't forget to take a few last pictures. Head out of Hazyview on the return trip, passing through subtropical and pine woods before returning to Nelspruit/Mbombela and the Highveld.
By 16:00, arrive in Johannesburg at O R Tambo Airport or adjacent lodgings. For local flights, please allow 1.5 hours of connecting time; for international flights, allow 3.0 hours.
principal destination: the city of Johannesburg
Accommodations: None (trip ends at this point)
