From the Kruger to the Elephant Coast via Swaziland
From the Kruger savanna to the Elephant Coast lagoons, a multi-country journey between white lions, Swazi traditions and sea turtles.
Duration
15 days
From
€2,550/pers.
Ideal seasons
Apr, May, Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep
Style
Guided tour
Comfort
Charm & Character
Travelers
Couple, Solo, With friends, senior
The spirit of travel
A rich and varied circuit that will take you from the famous Blyde River Canyon, to the reserve of the famous white lions, the Big 5 where your ecolodge nestled in the heart of the bush will delight you with its authenticity. Further south of the Kruger National Park, you will make a stop at a lodge with old-world charm.
Then you will reach the small kingdom of Eswatini, Africa's last absolute monarchy and sleep in a Swazi hut in Mlilwane for the most authentic approach to Eswatini between cultural richness and magnificent landscapes.
Your journey continues to Kosi Bay, gem of the iSimangaliso park listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will stay in an ecolodge with a different style among lakes, forests, wild beaches where turtle watching coming to lay their eggs each year between November and December followed by hatching in January/February, will be a magical moment. The private guides of your ecolodge will share their knowledge of the local culture, history and nature of this hidden gem.
You then head back down to St Lucia, a charming small village until you reach Durban, a multicultural city with African, Indian and colonial influences.
The stages of your journey
Highlights
Day-by-day itinerary
Welcome to South Africa!
Upon your arrival at Johannesburg international airport, your English-speaking representative welcomes you, assists you and hands over your travel documents. You then take your flight directly to Hoedspruit, northeast of Johannesburg, near many national parks and reserves.
Hoedspruit → Blyde River Canyon Lodge
Upon arrival in Hoedspruit, you pick up your rental car, then head towards the Blyde River Canyon Lodge. You check in for two nights on a bed & breakfast basis, with breakfast included.
Blyde River Canyon: Discovery of the Scenic Route and Its Waterfalls
After your breakfast, you set off to discover the Blyde River Canyon. Your accommodation, located near the scenic route, serves as a starting point to explore the main sites in the region: God's Window (7 km), Bourke's Luck Potholes (34 km), then the Blyde River Canyon (58 km).
The waterfalls that make the province famous complete this discovery. Among the closest are the Mac Mac, Berlin and Lisbon Falls.
Activity suggestion: a scenic hot air balloon flight over Blyde River Canyon.
In the Heart of the Bush at Pezulu Treehouse
After your breakfast, you head towards Pezulu Tree House Lodge, located in the Guernsey private nature reserve. You stay there for one night on a half-board basis, including dinner and breakfast.
Suggested visits and activities on the route:
On your way to the lodge, you can stop at two centers dedicated to wildlife and flora preservation: the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre, then the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre.
In the Guernsey reserve, Jeep safaris are offered as an additional activity. Accompanied by experienced rangers, you set out to observe wildlife and deepen your knowledge of the trees and plants of the bush.
These outings take place early in the morning, with a break in the heart of the bush for tea or coffee, or in the late afternoon, with a stop to admire the sunset behind the Drakensberg mountains.
The magic of Africa at Timbavati
Guernsey Nature Reserve → Timbavati
After breakfast, you head to the Timbavati Reserve, where your immersion in the bush begins. You settle in for three nights in rondavels at Umlani Bushcamp, with full board, including two safaris per day.
In this reserve known for its white lions, your ecolodge immerses you in the bush atmosphere, surrounded by the sounds of nature and the presence of wild animals.
In the late afternoon, you set off for your first safari, accompanied by passionate and professional rangers. Their experience guides you in this discovery of wildlife, in search of the Big Five.
Safari at Timbavati - on the white lion's lands
You wake up early for tea or coffee accompanied by dry pastries before heading out on a safari in the Timbavati Reserve. This early morning excursion takes you to the lands of the white lion, whose sighting remains rare.
Upon your return, a hearty breakfast awaits you at the lodge. If you have the energy for it, you can then accompany your rangers for a Bush Walk, a walk through the bush.
After lunch, it's time to rest: you choose between a nap and a moment by the pool, where elephants sometimes come to drink.
At the end of the day, you head out again for a sunset safari. The heat diminishes and the animals resume their activities, while predators go in search of prey.
Back at the lodge, you share an aperitif near the Boma, under the starry sky. Stories of the animals observed and scenes from the day feed this convivial moment.
Dinner extends these exchanges, before a restful night and the discoveries of tomorrow.
Second full day at Timbavati
You enjoy a second full day in the Timbavati Reserve, following the same program as the previous day. Safaris and meals at the lodge structure your day, with schedules adapted to the season.
Wake-up at 5 am in summer or 5:15 am in winter: coffee and biscuits are served before your departure.
Morning safari at 5:30 am in summer or 6 am in winter: you set out for a new excursion in the reserve.
Breakfast at 9 am: you return to the lodge for breakfast after the safari.
Lunch at 2 pm, self-service.
Afternoon safari at 4 pm in summer or 3 pm in winter: departure takes place from the lodge reception.
Dinner at 7:30 pm or 8 pm, with the main course self-service. Aperitif drinks are offered before the meal, while waiting for all safari participants to return.
Safari at sunrise and road to Shishangeni
Timbavati → Shishangeni (Parc Kruger)
At sunrise, you set off for a final safari in Timbavati. You take one last opportunity to observe wildlife, breathe in the scents of the bush and experience the atmosphere of the African savanna, to extend the discoveries of your stay.
After brunch, you leave your rondavelle and take time to say goodbye and thank your rangers, trackers and lodge staff. You then head to the southern edge of the Kruger National Park, a few kilometers from the Mozambican border, to stay at the Shishangeni Lodge.
Kruger Park is an iconic safari destination in Afrique du Sud, home to the Big Five. Staying in a bush camp allows you to immerse yourself in this wild region, find peace and enjoy a setting conducive to proximity with nature.
The day ends with a dinner around a boma fire, under the starlit sky.
Arrival in Eswatini, former Swaziland
Today, you are changing countries to join Eswatini, formerly called Swaziland. This small state also shares a border with Mozambique.
You head towards Ezulwini, the "Valley of Heaven", a region pioneering in the country's nature preservation. This is where you reach the Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary, where plains, mountains, waterfalls and forests shelter abundant wildlife. This natural setting is discovered on foot, by mountain bike, on horseback or by 4x4.
Nearby, the towns of Malkerns and Ezulwini also offer discovery opportunities for craft enthusiasts.
You settle in for two nights in traditional huts at Beehive Village.
Meeting with the Swazi people
This day is dedicated to meeting the Swazi people. You travel through the valley in a safari vehicle. During the school year, you visit a school, then discover local homes.
The itinerary remains flexible and visits spontaneous, to prioritize authentic encounters and appreciate the hospitality of your hosts. A traditional lunch is planned during the visit.
On Sundays, you have the opportunity to attend gospel singing at religious services.
Kosi Bay Estuary
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary (Swaziland) → Kosi Bay
You continue your journey south and reach Afrique du Sud. You head to Kosi Bay, on the coast north of Durban, just 2 km from the Mozambican border.
This lake region on the edge of the Indian Ocean is renowned for its beach, its river with clear waters and the diversity of its wildlife. Duikers, hippopotamuses, crocodiles and turtles are among the animals that inhabit it.
You settle in for two nights with full board at Chinderera Eco Lodge, in a chalet nestled beneath the trees of the region, among umdonis and acacias.
Relaxation at Kosi Bay
You enjoy a full day at Kosi Bay to rest and discover the area.
Accompanied by a local guide, you benefit from several included activities: snorkeling, nature walks and exploration of Lake Amanzinyama. A perfect combination of relaxation and discovery of Kosi Bay's natural setting.
Heading to Saint Lucia
You head back along the coastal road heading south towards Sainte-Lucie. Its vast estuary, inscribed on the UNESCO World Heritage list, is home to abundant wildlife. On foot, by bike or by boat, the opportunities for discovery invite you to enjoy the tranquility of this natural setting.
You settle in for two nights at Lidiko Lodge, a charming accommodation overlooking the great lake of Sainte-Lucie, in the heart of the iSimangaliso Wetland Park.
Saint Lucia - free day in iSimangaliso Park
You have a free day to discover iSimangaliso Wetland Park – Saint Lucia at your own pace. Take advantage of this time to enjoy its natural setting and organize your day according to your preferences.
From Saint Lucia to Salt Rock: Final Step by the Sea
You join Salt Rock, the last stage of your journey. This small town with a relaxed atmosphere offers a vacation vibe, with its beach, its tidal pool and its diving and fishing centers.
You settle in for the night at Petite Provence, a charming Bed & Breakfast located 300 meters from the beach.
Price per person
Indicative price per person, based on double room. Each trip is customized according to your preferences.
This trip can be tailored to your preferences
This itinerary provides an excellent foundation for discovery, but it can be fully customized. Our local advisors build each trip tailored to your budget, dates and preferences.
Not included
- International and domestic flights
- Airport taxes & visas
- Travel Insurance & Assistance
- The entrances of the Blyde River Canyon sites
- The possible hot air balloon flight over Blyde River Canyon
- Possible safaris at Pezulu Tree House
- The entrance to Kruger
- Meals not mentioned
- Everything not listed in the inclusions
Included
- English-speaking welcome and handover of travel documents on day 1 at Johannesburg airport
- A typical rental car Toyota Quantum or similar from day 1 to day 15 (included: contract fees, comprehensive insurance, unlimited kilometers, GPS)
- Accommodations
- The meals mentioned in the day-by-day description
- 6 safaris per person in Timbavati
- 6 safaris per person in South Kruger
- The vehicle fee and park fee at Timbavati
- Full day (with lunch) meeting the Swazi people on day 9
- Activities with a local guide at Kosi Bay: snorkeling, Lake and Nature walks, exploration of Lake Amanzinyama
Practical Information
Registration is considered firm and final after payment of a deposit of 30% of the total price and acceptance of the specific terms of sale.
The balance must be paid no later than 45 days before the departure date.
See our specific terms of sale for full details.
In the event of cancellation by the traveller, the following fees apply:
- Plus de 60 jours avant le départ : 40 % du prix total (acompte retenu)
- Entre 60 et 30 jours avant le départ : 50 % du prix total
- Moins de 30 jours avant le départ : 100 % du prix total
We strongly recommend taking out cancellation insurance. See our specific terms of sale for full details.
The information below concerns travelers who are nationals of the European Economic Area (EEA), Switzerland and Canada traveling to South Africa for a tourist stay. Entry rules may change, so we recommend that you verify the information with the official authorities before your departure.
Passport
To enter South Africa, your passport must be valid for a minimum of 30 days after your planned end date of stay and must have at least two consecutive blank pages for immigration stamps.
The document must be in good condition (no damaged, torn or altered pages).
Tourist stay without visa
Nationals of the European Economic Area, Switzerland and Canada benefit from a visa exemption for tourist stays in South Africa.
This exemption allows a stay of up to 90 days upon entry to the territory. This stay cannot be extended beyond this period without specific administrative procedures with the South African Department of Home Affairs.
The authorities may also request:
a departure ticket from the territory (return or onward flight),
proof of sufficient financial resources for the duration of your stay,
proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation from a private individual).
Health and vaccinations
No vaccine is mandatory to enter South Africa, except if you are arriving from a country at risk for yellow fever, in which case an international yellow fever vaccination certificate may be required at entry.
It is recommended that you consult a doctor or international vaccination center before departure, particularly regarding:
malaria prophylaxis, recommended for certain regions (Kruger, areas in the north-east and north of the country),
updating your routine vaccinations (hepatitis A, typhoid, tetanus, etc.).
Travel with children
Minors must hold their own valid passport covering the duration of the stay.
South Africa applies strict rules concerning travel by minors. Any child traveling with both parents or alone with one of them must present their full birth certificate (original or certified copy). When a minor travels without one or both parents, a parental authorization letter accompanied by the identity documents of the absent parents is generally required.
In certain European countries, an authorization to leave the territory may also be required according to the regulations of the country of residence.
Other nationalities
Entry conditions may vary depending on nationality. Travelers concerned should inquire with the embassy or consulate of South Africa in their country of residence.
To participate in our trips, it is strongly recommended to be insured for emergency repatriation and medical expenses abroad.
Your local agency encourages you to review the specific policy developed with our partners CHAPKA ASSURANCES and AXA ASSISTANCE.
To subscribe to an insurance plan, learn about coverage and rates, follow the link below.
CAP EXPLORER: The complete insurance solution designed for a worry-free trip!
Choose the plan that best suits your needs:
Explorer'Multirisque
Explorer'Annulation
Explorer'Assistance
Explorer' Complémentaire Carte Bancaire
Specific to our trips, we strongly recommend subscribing to them.
If you choose to subscribe to one of these plans, the full policy detailing all coverage and claim notification procedures is available on the insurer's website.
Your local agency will be aware of this, but only the participant is responsible for complying with claim notification procedures. The participant must therefore keep this policy with them throughout their trip.
Chapka — Cap Explorer
Our insurance partnerTravel with peace of mind with our partner Chapka. Cancellation, repatriation, medical expenses, baggage… All the coverage for a worry-free trip.
Travel with peace of mind — I'll handle the insuranceFrequently asked questions
It is possible to stay in South Africa without a visa, provided you present a valid passport that remains valid for at least 30 days after your return and has at least two blank pages. Specific conditions may apply to children, particularly regarding required documents. We recommend that you verify with the South African consular authorities the entry conditions applicable to your nationality before booking your trip.
Go to the My Trips section to find all your projects.
You can send a message to your host directly from the Tea Lounge.
For a tailor-made quality trip, expect between €180 and €320 per day per person, including accommodation, meals, internal transfers, car rental and activities. International flights (€800–1,300 return) are additional. High-end lodge safaris will significantly increase your budget.
Your documents are accessible in the Documents tab of your trip.
Absolutely. We adapt every itinerary to suit our travelers' profiles. For families, we prioritize relaxed paces, family-friendly accommodations, fun and educational activities, and comfortable private transfers. Our English-speaking local guides know how to capture children's attention with age-appropriate anecdotes.
It's simple. You exchange with our local team to define your wishes, your budget and your dates. You receive a detailed itinerary proposal within 48 hours. You refine every detail together until you reach the perfect version. You confirm and travel with peace of mind. Your local agency remains available 7 days a week throughout your trip.
In case of emergency, contact your local agency immediately.
Payment is generally made in two installments.
Our agency is part of the Nomadays network, registered in France. You benefit from APST (Association Professionnelle de Solidarité du Tourisme) coverage which protects 100% of your funds. Secure payment, repatriation insurance included, and English-speaking assistance 24/7 on-site throughout your stay.
Let's talk about your adventure — Mpumalanga
South African Faces Explorer, based in Cape Town
South Africa constantly transforms as you travel through it. It's a country where you can move from a safari to the stillness of a vineyard or the energy of a bustling city all in the same day.
— Patricia
