Accommodated tours in remote destinations
Camping tours in remote destinations
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The Mpumalanga area is one of great contrast, bordered in the west by the towering escarpment, with lush indigenous forests, crystal-clear streams and plunging waterfalls, and then falling away into the flat Lowveld bushveld, home to one of the richest diversities of fauna and flora in the world. Well known private reserves and the renowned Kruger National Park are located in this area. We spend time, both in Kruger National Park, and on our own private reserve, which is unfenced to Kruger Park. Being privately owned, we have the freedom to conduct open vehicle game drives and night drives on our property.
One of our best-selling must do tours!
We have improved our private reserve game viewing experience in Balule and are optimizing game driving time in the southern part of Kruger to give clients the ultimate wildlife and Panorama route experience in a compact package.
Departing from Johannesburg at 06h30, we set off on the scenic road to the north east of the country where we encounter beautiful natural scenery and many wild animals in natural parks and game reserves.
Lunch is enjoyed in the historic town of Haenertsburg, located on the edge of the escarpment with beautiful surrounding views. The road is filled with picturesque beauty, from mountain passes to the Acacia trees scattered across the African bushveld.
The next two nights we get cosy at our well-appointed Bush Lodge, situated in a private reserve within the greater Kruger National Park, where animals roam freely and unrestricted. This privately owned reserve allows us the freedom to explore the wilderness in search of a variety of animals in open game drive vehicles, day and night.
The tented lodge casually blends into the bush and offers crisp comfortable beds, en-suite bathrooms, a refreshing splash pool, and stunning views over the surrounding wilderness, including a water hole frequented by a variety of animals. Retire to bed with a symphony of sounds from the animal kingdom.
Dinner (Lunch Own Expense)
After a peaceful nights rest we start with an early riser light breakfast of fresh coffee and rusks (a traditional South African biscuit), before embarking on our morning experience within this Big 5 area.
Guided by a qualified guide/Ranger we explore the wilderness, with heightened senses, always on the lookout for an animal encounter while 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 in front of the camp attracts a variety of wildlife that come to quench their thirst, displaying the pecking order ever so present. Unwind with a refreshing drink and game viewing from the swimming pool or from your deck.
With the heat subsiding in the late afternoon an open game drive is in order, which develops into an extensive night drive in search of nocturnal animals.
As dusk approaches we pull over and enjoy a sun-downer drink or two, while watching the magnificent sunset over the African bushveld.
Brunch and Dinner
Rising with the African sun, a hearty breakfast is enjoyed, before setting off to explore the highlights of the Panorama Route, famous for many natural wonders and viewing points. First stop will be to view the impressive Blyde River Canyon – the world’s largest “green canyon”, then on to Bourke’s Luck Potholes where abundant gold was found and finally the breath-taking God’s Window. (Weather Permitting)
An own expense lunch is enjoyed giving guests the opportunity to meet the locals.
Mid-afternoon we make our way 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.
Time permitting, guests are able to do a nature walk on the property and the adjoining coffee farm and enjoy the mysterious forest. We spend two nights here.
Breakfast and Dinner (Lunch Own Expense)
Waking with the birds, we depart the lodge at sunrise and travel a short distance to enter a different area of the Kruger National Park for a full day of game viewing.
Driving slowly through this iconic National park the size of Israel or Wales we search for the many animals that inhabit this area.
From the high vantage point and comfort of our well-equipped vehicle, 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, while stopping at various designated sites to stretch our legs and 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)
After a relaxed breakfast, we depart Hazyview and make our way back to Johannesburg using the route originally pioneered by the early gold diggers. The tour will conclude late afternoon, on arrival at the hotel in Johannesburg or at O R Tambo airport.
Breakfast (Lunch Own Expense)
Pre and post night accommodation can be arranged at the 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 can be arranged through Drifters Adventure Tours 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. Accomodation 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 Kruger Tour
This tour is fully accommodated and all Linen and towels are supplied. Seasonal Malaria precautions may be advisable and are locally obtainable. Game viewing on foot is difficult, so we also place importance on some of the smaller aspects of the bush. It can get very hot so suitable precautions against sunburn should be taken.
Our price includes all transport, food, coffee, tea, accommodation, walks, game drives, entry fees and permits, group equipment and a professional guide.
The price does not include alcohol, bottled water and soft drinks, curios, tips and meals whilst in transit to and from Johannesburg. Before departure, clients will be required to enter into an agreement and indemnity pertaining to our booking conditions and general information.
It is compulsory for clients to have their own comprehensive personal travel insurance that includes cover for (but not limited to) any medical emergencies as well as Covid 19 related cancellations or deviations prior or during the tour.
Please give us a call on our 24-hour emergency no +27 82 293 7384 if you encounter any issues.
Departure Point
The 5 day Kruger Park tour departs from the Signature Lux Hotel, 135 West St, Sandton, 2146 at 06h3 on the first tour day (Sunday) and ends back on the last day (Thursday) at around 17h00 till late. Guests not staying at the Signature Lux Hotel must arrive at the Hotel at 06h00.
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.
Accommodation on Tour
Please note that linen will be provided for the duration of your tour and there is no need to bring along a sleeping bag or pillow.
• Batteries can be charged from a 220 volt source pre tour departure in Jhb, 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 Airport
• Internet facilities: Pre night in Johannesburg
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)
Botswana and Victoria Falls
Scenic heli-flip over Victoria Falls
Adrenalin
Safari
River
Air activities
Adventure pass
Choose any two of the following for only USD 305.00 and get a cruise almost free!!!
Safari pass
Choose any one of the following plus a Chobe trip for only USD293.00
Rafting + Gorge Swing combo
Book White water rafting and Gorge swing and pay USD200.00 only.
Please Note:
Travel documents
Please ensure that you are in possession of valid travel documents for all the countries (South Africa) that you will visit. 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.
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.
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.
On Tour:
Please be advised that 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 is as follows:
• South Africa – ZAR; Rand
Credit cards are generally accepted throughout South Africa but it is recommended that clients have a certain amount of cash to pay for personal expenses and possible gratuities.
Areas where you shall be able to use your credit card are as follows:
• Johannesburg for activities; food; accommodation and small extras
• 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.
Before departure, clients will be required to enter into an agreement and indemnity pertaining to our booking conditions and general information.
It is compulsory for clients to have their own comprehensive personal travel insurance that includes cover for (but not limited to) any medical emergencies as well as Covid 19 related cancellations or deviations prior or during the tour.
Health precautions & requirements
The only necessary prophylaxis for Southern and East 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 along 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
Clothing & 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 should be limited to a maximum of 20kg’s HARD SUITCASES ARE NOT SUITABLE!!
*** Refreshments can be purchased en-route on the first day of the tour, and at regular intervals throughout the tour.
Meals and refreshments
Meals are provided as indicated in the brochure/website. We do not provide meals on the first day of the tour. We do however stop en-route; therefore it is always possible to buy something along the way. 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.
Please note: 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 10 Euro per day or equivalent amount of 10 Euro 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 tours for the 5 Day Kruger Tour on the following departure dates:
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