Accommodated tours in remote destinations
Camping tours in remote destinations
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The 18 Day South Africa tour. Taking time to explore our country we updated the route for this tour to offer guests an amazing experience. Our aim is to show off the unique natural and cultural diversity of what is often referred to as “A World in One Country”. Virtually the size of Europe, with over 3000 kilometres of unspoiled coastline, climatic zones ranging from searing hot deserts to cool crisp 3400m mountains – South Africa lives up to this reputation. Proudly boasting a multitude of fascinating ecosystems harbouring an infinite variety of fauna and flora as well as an equally amazing range of people and cultures – from the original Bushman to the most Western of ways, this truly is an unmatched destination.
We visit the highlights, but also wander off of the beaten track to indulge in the great outdoors and to show off an array of South Africa’s hidden gems and lesser known attractions.
Overnight stops are at comfortable lodges or hotels, all are in truly unique surroundings – whether in pristine reserves, high in the mountains or on a remote beach, each is carefully chosen to show off a different aspect of this captivating destination.
The tour is enjoyed by those with a flexible attitude and adventurous mentality.
The 18 Day South Africa tour. Taking time to explore our country we updated the route for this tour to offer guests an amazing experience.
Heading north from Johannesburg – “The City of Gold”, like many intrepid explorers have done before us, our journey takes us through the outskirts of the capital – Pretoria, and then out into the vast open plains of Africa.
Lunch today will be in the historic gold mining village of Haenertsburg. After lunch we descend into the Magoebaskloof, a spectacular lush mountainous area presided over by the Rain Queen – Modjadi.
The last stretch of our journey today takes us into the Greater Kruger – world renowned for its protected natural environment and vast free-ranging animal populations.
For the next two nights we get cosy at our well-appointed Bush Lodge, situated in a private reserve within the greater Kruger – where animals roam freely and unrestricted. This privately owned reserve allows us the freedom to explore the wilderness in open game drive vehicles in search of a variety of animals, both during the day and into the evening.
The lodge casually blends into the bush and offers crisp comfortable beds and stunning views over the surrounding wilderness, including a water hole regularly frequented by animals. Retire to bed whilst listening to a symphony of sounds from the African Bush.
Dinner (Lunch Own Expense)
After a peaceful night’s rest we start the day with an early riser light breakfast of fresh coffee and rusks (a traditional South African biscuit), before embarking on our morning experience within the wild African bush.
Guided by a qualified ranger we explore the wilderness, with heightened senses, always on the lookout for an animal encounter while also discovering the smaller treasures often hidden from the eye.
Before the heat of the day sets in, we return to the lodge for a scrumptious brunch, after which it’s time to relax around the lodge and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding wilderness. A nearby waterhole attracts a variety of birds and wildlife that come to quench their thirst, displaying the pecking order ever so present. Unwind with a refreshing drink while game viewing from the deck.
With the heat subsiding in the late afternoon we embark on an open vehicle game drive which develops into an extensive night drive – in search of the nocturnal animals that come out after dark.
As dusk approaches we pull over and enjoy a sun-downer drink or two, whilst marvelling at the magnificent sun setting over the African bushveld.
Brunch and Dinner
Rising with the African sun, a hearty breakfast is enjoyed before setting off to climb the escarpment and explore the many natural wonders and viewing points in this incredibly scenic region. First stop will be to view the impressive Blyde River Canyon – the world’s largest “Green Canyon”. After viewing the Canyon we continue on to visit the museum town of Pilgrim’s Rest where we enjoy a walk down through the main street whilst reliving the days of the early gold rush.
Today’s lunch will be at your own expense at a venue literally on the edge of the escarpment and offering the most incredible views over the entire Lowveld.
Mid-afternoon we make our way down to the tranquil Greenfire Lodge Hazyview, a log cabin built spectacularly on stilts in the indigenous forest on the banks of the impressive Sabie River or “Fearful River” as dubbed by the locals. As well as a natural paradise this is also a working farm where coffee, limes and macadamias are produced and we will take the time to tour the workings on the property.
Breakfast and Dinner (Lunch Own Expense)
Waking with the birds, we depart from the lodge at sunrise and travel a short distance to enter the southern sector of Kruger National Park for a full day of game viewing.
Driving slowly through this iconic National Park – the size of Israel or Wales, we will spend the day in search of the many animal inhabitants.
From the high vantage point and comfort of our well-equipped vehicle the view is excellent. Our expert guide will take time to explain the behaviour of the many animals we see in this fascinating environment.
Most of the day will be spent game viewing, however, we will stop regularly at various designated sites to stretch our legs and also to enjoy an own-expense lunch at one of the rest camps in the Park.
Late this afternoon we exit the Park and return to the comfort of our Greenfire Lodge Hazyview.
Packed Breakfast, Snacks, and Dinner (Lunch own expense)
Departing after breakfast we pass through the provincial capital Mbombela (Nelspruit), before leaving South Africa and crossing the border into the Kingdom of eSwatini (formerly known as Swaziland), a small landlocked country, rich in culture and natural beauty.
Our journey today takes us high into the mountains, past numerous traditional homesteads, and into an area of spectacular natural beauty. The area is home to many traditional craft industries and time permitting, we will visit one or more during our time here.
We will spend some time exploring this small country before arriving at our accommodation for the night and enjoying a locally cooked meal.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Today we follow winding roads south through the Swazi countryside, before crossing back into South Africa. After completing the border formalities, we enter Zululand, a part of modern-day KwaZulu-Natal, and home to South Africa’s largest ethnic group – the Zulu people. Formed in the early 1800’s into the most powerful regional empire by King Shaka Zulu, the Zulus influenced a large part of southern Africa.
Once back in South Africa our journey continues to the bustling coastal town of St Lucia where we spend the next two nights. St Lucia itself is home to many animals including Hippo, Crocodile and bird species.
During our stay in St Lucia we will also visit the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a Subtropical Coastal habitat with white beaches, tidal pools, offshore reefs and coastal dune forest. This unique combination of coastal reserve and Wetland Park offers an absolutely unique experience, where we drive through the park viewing rhino, buffalo and a multitude of other large animals, before going for a walk on a deserted beach where at any time you can take a dip in the warm Indian Ocean. The day is spent exploring the beach, rock pools, pristine dune forest and other natural habitats of this amazing Park.
During the evenings we enjoy our dinners at one of the many local restaurants (own-expense). Beware of the wandering hippos that also visit town at night for a bite to eat.
Breakfast and Lunch (x2)
(Dinner own expense)
Departing St Lucia after breakfast, we continue travelling through the rolling hills of Kwa-Zulu Natal, an area famous for various battles between the Boers and Zulus, British and Zulus and the Boers and British. The area is filled with numerous historic sites that helped shape modern day South Africa.
This afternoon we reach the majestic Drakensberg mountain range that rises 3400m, known to the locals as “The Barrier of Spears”.
After a full day we arrive at our accommodation, where we spend two nights in cozy cabins surrounded by breath-taking views.
On day 9 we will conduct a day hike in the Tugela Gorge which is located in the Royal Natal National Park, part of Drakensberg World Heritage Site. From here we will have a spectacular view of the towering cliffs of the Amphitheatre and the Tugela Falls, at 948m the falls are widely accepted as being the second highest in the world.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (x2)
With tired legs, today we travel further south whilst hugging the Drakensberg Mountains and make our way into the Natal midlands, a lush farming area known to be one of South Africa’s prettiest.
Our overnight stop tonight is on a working ranch. We arrive in the afternoon and will have time to learn more about farming in this area as well as the fascinating history that surrounds the farm and buildings on the property. For the adventurous there will also be an opportunity to assist with some of the farm work in the afternoon or early morning.
Tonight we enjoy a traditional dinner prepared fresh from the farm gardens.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Setting off early, we pass through several small towns and follow beautiful roads towards one of the most exciting, truly off-the-beaten-track highlights of the tour – The Wild Coast.
Having formerly been an independent homeland, there has been little development in this area, resulting in endless unspoiled beaches, natural estuaries, rolling grassland, and a tapestry of traditional Xhosa villages.
We spend two nights on the Wild Coast at Coffee Bay allowing us a full day for hiking and exploring this rugged but stunningly beautiful area. The highlight of our stay will be a walk along the high cliffs, deserted beaches and rolling grasslands, to what is one the most impressive landmarks along the South African coastline – Hole in the Wall. Hole in the Wall is an island, just offshore with a natural arch carved by centuries of wave-action. The adventurous can swim out for a closer look.
This afternoon we will have time to simply relax and to enjoy the “Robinson Crusoe” surroundings as well as the comforts of our accommodation.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner (x2)
Departing from the Wild Coast we follow lesser known roads through the Eastern Cape Province of South Africa and make our way into the Great Karoo, to Cradock, a town in the upper reaches of the Great Fish River valley, filled with rich history dating back to the mid 1800s.
On arrival in Cradock we are met by a local guide who will take us on a colorful walking history tour, before we check into our accommodation for the night. We enjoy an evening surrounded by old fashion hospitality and history.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
An early start, we aim to enter the Mountain Zebra Park as the gate opens – this Park is unlike any of the others we have previously visited, being in the semi-desert of the Great Karoo, and is home to not only the endangered mountain zebra, but also springbok, ostrich, cheetah, buffalo, black rhino, and an array of birdlife. We spend a few hours in search of animals, and to take in the spectacular views, before returning to the hotel for a sumptuous breakfast.
Once packed, we depart Cradock and head for the renowned Addo Elephant Park where elephants, buffalo and other animals can be viewed at close range in another unique environment, the succulant shrubs of the rhenosterveld. We will traverse this interesting National Park from the north to south. Exiting in the late afternoon we travel the short distance back to the coast and to our hotel literally on the beachfront of the stunning Nelson Mandela Bay. The location of our hotel allows for us to stroll along the beachfront and to visit one of a variety of restaurants to enjoy an own expense dinner.
Breakfast and Lunch (Dinner own expense)
This morning we will have time for a stroll on the beach, perhaps a swim in the Indian Ocean or just a leisurely cup of coffee. After breakfast we then continue our journey into the heart of the spectacular Garden Route region. We will travel the length of this magnificent natural kingdom sandwiched between the ocean and the towering mountains, exploring the verdant and ecologically diverse vegetation encountered here with the numerous estuaries, lakes and ancient forests. We stop regularly to explore the highlights including the Tsitsikamma Coastal National Park where we will enjoy a walk along the rugged coast and over the suspension bridge spanning the Storms River mouth.
This afternoon we travel to the vibrant town of Knysna. Surrounded by indigenous forests, fynbos and lagoons, this little town is a gem in a natural Garden of Eden.
On arrival we have time to explore and to enjoy an own-expense meal at one of the many little restaurants.
Breakfast and Lunch
Departing from Knysna we follow the coast through several small towns as we make our way down to Cape Agulhas – the most southerly point on the African continent. Here we will conduct a short walk down to the beach to experience first-hand the theoretical meeting point of the cold Atlantic and the warm Indian oceans.
A picnic style lunch is enjoyed by all with the crisp clean ocean breeze, before leaving this treasure and retiring to our accommodation in Arniston. An afternoon walk down to the huge sea cave, Waenhuiskrans, is recommended.
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
A relaxed morning drive takes us on the “Whale Route” through Hermanus – known across the world for excellent land based whale watching. We then hug the coast around the Hottentots Holland Mountains toward Betty’s Bay where we visit a small colony of African Penguins.
This afternoon we travel one of the most scenic coastal routes in the world, along the edge of False Bay, before making our way towards the “Mother City”, Cape Town.
Mid-afternoon we will arrive at the aha Harbour Bridge Hotel, located in Foreshore and our accommodation for the night. The hotel is conveniently located close to award winning restaurants, galleries, vibrant nightlife and the ocean promenade.
Our tour will officially come to an end after breakfast on Day 18 of the tour.
Cape Town is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful cities in the world, rich in culture, award winning wines, world class restaurants, fashion and people from all walks of life, guests are encouraged to spend some extra time to explore the ‘Mother City’, and we would be happy to assist in making arrangements.
The tour ends at 09h00 on Day 18. Clients may extend their stay by booking post-tour accommodation at the aha Harbour Bridge Hotel. If arranging an onward flight on this day, please allow time for an airport transfer and for check-in procedures (up to three hours).
Breakfast; Breakfast (Lunch and dinner on Day 17 are own expense)
Pre and post night accommodation can be arranged at the aha Harbour Bridge Hotel in Cape Town and Signature Lux Hotel in Johannesburg. It is advisable to overnight at the Signature Lux Hotel if you have not already made alternative arrangements. Accommodation at the Signature Lux Hotel and aha Harbour Bridge Hotel can be arranged through Drifters or your travel representative.
The Signature Lux Hotel, 135 West Street, Sandton, is a beatuiful small hotel ideally situated a stone’s throw away from a major shopping center and makes the ideal stop-over before starting or finishing your tour. With close proximity to shops, restaurants, banks, cinemas, highways and public transport. Accommodation is in twin bedded rooms, all en-suite.
Please note that we strongly advise against flying out on the day that the tour ends. Drifters will not be held responsible for missed flights on this day. We generally travel long distances and late arrivals are common.
Pre-Departure Information South Africa Tour
This trip requires a valid passport and for certain nationalities. ALL linen is provided. A sleeping bag, towel and pillow are NOT required for this tour. Seasonal Malaria precautions are necessary and are locally obtainable. A barrel bag or backpack is best suited for this trip (suitcases do not fit into the space provided). An extra day bag or camera bag is advised. Spending money required will be for the restaurant meals, drinks, visas, tips, curios, airport transfers, and any other optional excursions. Remember, help us to help you by participating and by keeping an open mind and flexible mentality.
Our price includes all food as specified, coffee, tea, juice at breakfast, transport, professional guides, mekoro hire, accommodation, group equipment, permits and park entrance fees. Our price does not include restaurant meals where stipulated, visas, tips, curios, optional excursions, alcohol, bottled water and soft drinks, airport tax, airport transfers and airfares. Before departure clients will be required to enter into an agreement pertaining to our booking conditions and general information as defined on our website and in our brochure. Clients are required to have their own comprehensive personal travel insurance.
Departure Point
The 18 Day South Africa tour departs from the Signature Lux Hotel, 135 West St, Sandown, Sandton, 2146 at 06h30 on the first tour day and ends on the last day at 16h00 at the aha Harbour Bridge Hotel. Guests not staying at the Signature Lux Hotel must arrive at the hotel at 06h00 on the day of departure.
Accommodation on Tour
Please note that linen will be provided for the duration of your tour and you will NOT need a sleeping bag and pillow for the rest of the tour.
• Batteries can be charged from a 220 volt source pre tour departure in Johannesburg, on most nights at the lodges and every day on the truck while the truck is driving from a 12 V inverter.
• Currency exchange opportunities: Arrival at Johannesburg O.R. Tambo International Airport.
• Internet facilities: Pre night in Johannesburg, Knysna and Cape Town.
On Safari
All our tours require a certain level of participation from all group members. This entails assisting with the food preparation, washing of dishes and keeping the truck clean.
Please keep in mind that flexibility and an open mind will greatly contribute to an enjoyable safari.
We are travelling in developing countries therefore please do not expect the punctuality you have come to expect in first world countries. Things do not always run according to plan, however we do endeavour to run according to the itinerary as best as possible.
Drifters Wish You an Enjoyable African Experience!
Johannesburg and surrounds (pre and post tour)
Cape Town and Surrounds
Please Note:
Travel documents
Please ensure that you are in possession of valid travel documents for all the countries that you will visit (South Africa & Eswatini). If you have any queries in this regard, please do not hesitate to contact us. Please ensure that you have proof of further travel arrangements if you do not have a South African passport, permanent residency permit, work permit or study permit. Although we will endeavour to assist, we do not accept any liability or obligation for your travel documents.
1) Port of exit from South Africa into Eswatini – Jeppes Reef on day 5
2) Port of exit from Eswatini and re-entry into South Africa – Lavumisa/Golela Border on day 6
Make sure that your passport has at least six months’ validity from your planned date of return to your home country. Make two photocopies of valuable documents such as your passport, tickets, visas. Keep one copy with you in a separate place to the original and leave another copy with someone at home.
Please note that all guests travelling to South Africa will require two blank facing pages in their passport.
Please note it is your responsibility to have the correct travel documents (Visas and valid passports) for each and every country you will be visiting on your tour.
Foreign currency
Upon arrival in any respective country we operate in, you will be able to find a Bureau de Change OR ATM Facilities at the airport or in the Town/City the tour is departing from. It is advised to bring any major world currency (US Dollar, Euro or British Pounds) in small denominations and not dated older than 2009. It is advised to get a small amount of local currency upon arrival just to get around until your tour starts.
While on tour our guides will inform and show you the best places to exchange any Major World Currency with the best possible exchange rates either before your tour starts or during the course of the tour. Our guides will brief you exactly on where to exchange and roughly how much you will need to exchange after discussing possible optional activities, own expense meals or possible curio stops. Drifters trucks have safe-keeping facilities for extra cash/flight tickets/passport.
The preferred currency for your tour is as follows:
•South Africa – ZAR; Rand
Credit cards are widely accepted in most parts of South Africa but please ensure to have enough cash for personal expenses and possible gratuities.
Please note lodges will ONLY receive cash payments.
Areas where you shall be able to use your credit card are as follows:
•Shopping; At most large supermarkets
Insurance
It is compulsory that all passengers make arrangements for adequate travel insurance to financially safeguard against unforeseen circumstances. If you need further information please do not hesitate to contact us. Drifters do not accept responsibility for any loss, injury, damage, accident, fatality, delay or inconvenience experienced whilst on tour. You will be required to complete and sign a full indemnity prior to your tour departure.
Your insurance should include all the countries and territories that your tour will pass through. You must ensure that you have sufficient cover for medical and evacuation costs, and should base this on advice from your insurer. A minimum benefit of USD 60 000.00 is recommended for evacuation from any area in which Drifters operates in Africa to South Africa, with further benefits for medical costs in South Africa, and for possible repatriation to your home country. Please note that you will be required to furnish details of your travel insurance to Drifters before you will be allowed to travel with us. Please ensure that these details are completely and accurately recorded in order to facilitate a claim should this be necessary.
Health precautions & requirements
The only necessary prophylaxis for Southern Africa is against Malaria, but on this tour there is no eminent danger as South Africa is regarded mostly as a Malaria free zone however prevention is better than cure, so we do advise to also use insect repellent on exposed areas after sunset. Please consult with your general practitioner regarding this. All Drifters guides have first aid boxes for use in emergencies, however we recommend that you bring a long your own basic supply of medication, headache tablets etc.
**Personal medication
Please bring along any personal medication that you might need on your tour as specific medication could be difficult to find or might not be obtainable in most places we visit. General medication for headaches, colds and fever are easy to get.
Please also inform your guide of any medical conditions. This information will be received professionally and kept confidential.
Weather conditions
Please note that Southern African weather conditions vary tremendously from season to season. During summer months temperatures of up to 40°C can be experienced. During the winter months of June, July and August the nights are very cold, temperatures may drop well below 0°C, although the day temperatures will be pleasant at around 20°C.
For more accurate information, please visit AccuWeather and choose your destination.
http://www.accuweather.com/en/browse-locations
Clothing and personal effects
Herewith a recommended guide of what to bring along:
For walking, hiking and Safaris
For general travelling (to keep yourself entertained on the longer drives)
Our vehicles are well equipped with charging facilities while driving. A Two-pin charger is perfect.
General Accessories
Luggage and Packing space on our vehicles
Luggage should be limited to a maximum of 20kg’s
Each Drifters Traveler have their own locker on our trucks which is accessible even while driving. Backpacks, Barrel bags or Soft Suitcases are strongly advisable as your standard Hard Suitcases sometimes don’t fit into the lockers.
Meals and refreshments
Meals are provided as indicated in the brochure/website. Soft drinks, bottled water and alcohol are for your own expense; there is ample opportunity during the tour to buy refreshments. The guide will advise when you need to stock up for a couple of days.
Personal expenses
A reasonable amount of personal spending money must be brought on our tours. This is to cover own expense meals as indicated in our Drifters Brochure, bottled water, soft drinks, alcohol, sundry goods purchased- such as suntan cream etc., curios, optional extra excursions, airport tax, transfers and tips.
In Africa things work a little different to the rest of the World. Tipping or gratuity, unless otherwise specified, is not included in the price you pay for services delivered. This accounts for restaurant meals, casual help and the services of the guide or guides that you will meet on your tour.
In Southern and East Africa it is classified as a common courtesy to TIP “casual help (guides)”.
This TIP is not something that is forced upon you by any means, but in many industries of tourism it is customary. It works as follows: if you believe your guide has lived up to your expectations and has performed his/her job in a way that you respect and are happy with the services rendered, an amount of R50 per day or equivalent amount of R50 per day in any major currency per person per day would constitute a fantastic tip. Remember that this is just a guideline and is not by any means compulsory, but seen as common courtesy in Southern and East Africa.
Please note: Drifters will offer German guided tour departures for the 18 Day South Africa Tour on the following departure dates:
Embark on captivating journeys to breathtaking destinations. Explore diverse landscapes, rich heritage, and thrilling adventures.
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