12 Day Private Safari – Johannesburg to Cape Town

Setting out on a 12-day private safari from Johannesburg to Cape Town promises an unforgettable adventure. Traversing diverse landscapes, this immersive journey offers unparalleled opportunities to witness South Africa’s breathtaking natural beauty and rich cultural heritage. From thrilling safaris in iconic national parks to scenic hikes in the Drakensberg Mountains, each day presents captivating experiences that will leave a lasting impression. With comfortable accommodations and personalized service, travelers can fully enjoy the wonders that await. The itinerary showcases the country’s most iconic landmarks, but the true magic lies in the unexpected discoveries that will make this trip truly remarkable.

Good To Know

• A 12-day private safari tour across South Africa, starting in Johannesburg and ending in Cape Town, covering Kruger National Park, Isimangaliso Wetlands, Drakensberg Mountains, Addo National Park, and the Garden Route.
• Highlights include iconic wildlife safaris, culture, historical sites like Mandela’s birthplace, and scenic coastal exploration along the Garden Route.
• Priced at $3,103.41 per person, the tour includes private transportation, hotel pickups/drop-offs, an English-speaking guide, and wheelchair accessibility.
• Diverse experiences such as game drives, boat cruises, hikes, and optional activities like bungee jumping and wine tasting provide a comprehensive South African adventure.
• Comfortable accommodations, daily breakfast, and seamless transportation ensure a well-organized and enjoyable journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview and Itinerary

This 12-day private safari tour offers an immersive experience across South Africa’s diverse landscapes and wildlife. Priced from $3,103.41 per person, the tour includes private transport with hotel pick-ups and drop-offs, an English-speaking guide, and wheelchair accessibility.

Travelers will embark on safaris in renowned parks like Kruger and Addo, hike the Drakensberg Mountains, and cruise along the St Lucia Estuary.

The itinerary also features visits to Mandela’s birthplace, the Knysna Heads, and the southernmost tip of Africa at Cape Agulhas.

With a mix of wildlife encounters, historical sites, and scenic beauty, this comprehensive tour showcases the highlights of South Africa.

Kruger National Park Safari

At the start of the 12-day private safari, travelers venture into the renowned Kruger National Park for an exhilarating sunset game drive.

They’ll spot iconic African wildlife, including lions, elephants, and leopards, in their natural habitat. The skilled guide provides in-depth commentary, sharing insights into the park’s rich biodiversity and conservation efforts.

As the sun dips below the horizon, guests enjoy the dramatic change in lighting and the chance to see nocturnal animals emerge.

This immersive Kruger experience sets the tone for the rest of the journey, whetting the appetite for more wildlife encounters and cultural discoveries across South Africa.

Isimangaliso Wetlands and Durban

After their exhilarating safari experience in Kruger National Park, travelers journey to the Isimangaliso Wetlands Park.

This UNESCO World Heritage site boasts a diverse array of ecosystems, from lakes and estuaries to coastal dunes and forests.

Highlights include:

1. A visit to a local village to learn about the region’s rich cultural heritage.
2. A thrilling hippo and crocodile boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary.
3. A city tour of Durban, showcasing its Botanical Gardens and Phezulu Safari Park.

From the wetlands, the tour continues to the majestic Drakensberg Mountains, where travelers will discover the legacy of Nelson Mandela.

Drakensberg Mountains and Mandela

Departing Durban, the safari journey takes travelers to the breathtaking Drakensberg Mountains. The first stop is Howick Falls, a stunning 302-foot waterfall. Next, the tour visits the Mandela Museum in Mthatha, where visitors can learn about the life and legacy of the iconic South African leader. The group then travels to Mvezo, Mandela’s birthplace, for a poignant visit. These Mandela-focused experiences provide a deeper understanding of the country’s history and the man who shaped it.

Highlights
Howick Falls
Mandela Museum
Mandela’s Birthplace
Drakensberg Mountains
East London Safari

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Addo National Park and Garden Route

The safari continues westward, with a stop at Addo Elephant National Park for an exciting game drive.

Home to the densest population of African elephants, the park offers the chance to spot these majestic creatures alongside other wildlife, like lions, leopards, and endemic flightless dung beetles.

After the safari, the tour heads along the renowned Garden Route, stopping at Bloukrans Bridge – the world’s highest commercial bungee jump site, if guests wish to take the plunge.

The journey then continues through picturesque Plettenberg Bay and the Robberg Nature Reserve before reaching the charming town of Knysna, where an optional sunset cruise awaits.

Key Highlights:

1. Addo Elephant National Park game drive
2. Bloukrans Bridge bungee jumping (optional)
3. Robberg Nature Reserve hike and Knysna Heads cruise

Knysna Heads and Coastal Exploration

Leaving the Robberg Nature Reserve behind, the tour continues to the charming coastal town of Knysna. Here, travelers will explore the famous Knysna Heads, a pair of imposing sandstone cliffs guarding the entrance to the Knysna Lagoon. An optional sunset cruise offers stunning views of this dramatic landscape.

The tour then ventures along the scenic Garden Route, taking in the towering Bloukrans Bridge, the southernmost point of Africa at Cape Agulhas, and the picturesque Hermanus, known for its whale watching opportunities.

The day culminates with a visit to the African Penguin colony at Betty’s Bay, providing a fitting finale to this coastal exploration.

Cape Agulhas and Whale Watching

Travelers arrive at the southernmost point of the African continent, Cape Agulhas, where the Indian and Atlantic Oceans converge.

This iconic location offers remarkable views and photo opportunities. The tour then continues to Hermanus, renowned for its exceptional whale watching.

During the right season, visitors can observe southern right whales breaching and calving from the shore or on an optional sunset cruise.

The day concludes with a visit to the Benguela Cove Wine Estate for wine tasting, showcasing the celebrated local vintages.

Notable highlights:

1. Explore the convergence of the Indian and Atlantic Oceans at Cape Agulhas.
2. Witness the majestic southern right whales in Hermanus (seasonal).
3. Indulge in a wine tasting at the renowned Benguela Cove Wine Estate.

Accommodation and Transport

Comfortable accommodations await guests throughout the 12-day safari. The tour includes stays at lodges, hotels, and guesthouses, all of which provide breakfast daily.

Travelers will rest their heads at the Kruger Adventure Lodge, St Lucia Lodge, Parade Hotel Durban Beachfront, and various other properties in the Drakensberg, Mthatha, East London, Port Elizabeth, Knysna, and Hermanus regions.

Transport is provided with pickups and drop-offs from hotels, airports, and ports, ensuring a seamless journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town.

Optional activities like a sunset cruise in Knysna can be added at an extra cost.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Average Group Size for This Tour?

The tour is a private group with a live English-speaking guide. The size of the private group is not specified in the provided information.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Specific Interests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate specific interests. Travelers can select optional activities and experiences based on their preferences, such as hiking, wildlife encounters, or culture. The tour provider offers flexibility to personalize the itinerary.

What Are the Recommended Packing Tips for the Tour?

Recommended packing tips include comfortable, lightweight clothing, sturdy walking shoes, a hat, sunscreen, insect repellent, and a light jacket or sweater. Bring a camera and binoculars to fully enjoy the diverse landscapes and wildlife.

Are There Any Discounts Available for This Tour?

The tour offers a 10% early bird discount for bookings made at least 6 months in advance. Plus, there are occasional last-minute deals and group discounts available, so it’s best to check with the tour operator for the latest offers.

What Is the Process for Requesting Special Dietary Requirements?

To request special dietary requirements, participants should contact the tour operator in advance. The tour operator will accommodate dietary needs where possible, subject to availability at the accommodations and activities included in the tour.

The Sum Up

This 12-day private safari from Johannesburg to Cape Town offers travelers an unforgettable experience. Guests will enjoy thrilling wildlife encounters, stunning natural scenery, and immersive cultural discoveries across South Africa. With comfortable accommodations, personalized service, and a comprehensive itinerary, this safari provides an exceptional opportunity to explore the country’s diverse beauty and rich heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: