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Essentials of South Africa

This itinerary highlights South Africa’s most prized sights, starting in Cape Town and passing through the Garden Route, the Kwa-Zulu Natal region, and finishing in the famous Kruger Park via a panoramic drive through the Blyde River Canyon.
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Parc Kruger
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17
days

Days 1-3: Arrival in Cape Town

Here is where it all began! Visit of the historical centre with its Victorian houses, port, and waterfront. Also worth seeing is the Cape Peninsula with its penguins and Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens.

 

Days 4-5: The wine route

Within less than an hour from Cape Town you’ll be in the heart of the winelands! During your tastings, make sure to try a pinotage - South Africa’s very own grape varietal.

 

Mancala’s recommendation: In season (July until end-November), we recommend that you spend at least 1 night in the Hermanus region to see the whales.

 

Day 6: The Little Karoo Desert

With its Wild West appearance, one often compares South Africa’s Route 62 with the United States’ Route 66. Before arriving in Oudtshoorn, you will have crossed through quaint towns, mountain passes, and desert regions. Oudtshoorn made its fortune in raising ostriches and exporting their feathers, so don’t miss out on visiting one of the working farms.

 

Days 7-8: The Garden Route

Head towards Knysna and its magnificent turquoise lagoon. There are lots of excursions to do in the area: a boat tour on the lagoon with a visit to the Tsitsikamma National Park, Plettenberg and its magnificent beaches, Nature’s Valley….

 

Day 9: Kwa-Zulu Natal

Flight to Durban and onwards to the town of St. Lucia. This is a small town at the edge of the Indian Ocean where you’ll find many hippos and crocodiles. Optional boat cruise on the St. Lucia estuary.

 

Days 10-11: First safari!

Visit to Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Park. One of the oldest in the country, which includes one of the greatest concentrations of white rhinos in the country!

 

Day 12: eSwatini, previously Swaziland

Last safari at sunrise, before taking the road to eSwatini (Swaziland) which is comparable to Switzerland with its mountainous landscapes.

 

Days 13-14: Blyde River Canyon

Via a panoramic drive you’ll discover the Blyde River Canyon with its breathtaking views, waterfalls, and an old mining town.

 

Days 15-16: Kruger Park

The most famous and largest game park in South Africa. Here you’ll be completely immersed in nature and safaris. You’ll also have the option to do walking safaris where you can track rhinos, elephants, giraffes….

 

Day 17: Return to Johannesburg

After one last sunrise safari, you’ll continue on to Johannesburg for your return flight.

 

The Mancala Touch: We offer numerous additional activities, including golf, horse riding, local cooking courses, township bicycle tours, helicopter flights, sunset cruises….

17 days - 16 nights
When to go


This itinerary can be done throughout the year.

Extra


This trip can be combined with Victoria Falls , Botswana or the beaches of Mozambique .

Relaxation & Safari


It can also be done in 12 days and focus on beaches and safaris

 

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