Detailed Safari Itineraries
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Standard Package
Perfect for private travelers seeking the convenience of coordinated transfers and pre-selected accommodations while maintaining the flexibility to choose their activities on-site. You'll stay in nature reserve lodges near Kruger, providing an authentic bush environment and a genuine break from city life. All transfers are coordinated, accommodations are carefully selected, and you have the freedom to customize your safari activities on-site. Choose from available game drives and experiences at each location based on your interests, budget, and schedule. Ideal for those who prefer spontaneity and want to tailor their adventure day by day while enjoying a real connection to the bush.
Standard Package
Perfect for private travelers seeking the convenience of coordinated transfers and pre-selected accommodations while maintaining the flexibility to choose their activities on-site. You'll stay in nature reserve lodges near Kruger, providing an authentic bush environment and a genuine break from city life. All transfers are coordinated, accommodations are carefully selected, and you have the freedom to customize your safari activities on-site. Choose from available game drives and experiences at each location based on your interests, budget, and schedule. Ideal for those who prefer spontaneity and want to tailor their adventure day by day while enjoying a real connection to the bush.
Itinerary Options
Why we love shuttles!
Skip the driving and let local expert chauffeurs handle the roads. It's safer and more reliable, saves fuel, and frees up budget for guided excursions. You get the full experience—and complete peace of mind!
Destination gallery
Swipe or use arrowsPhoto: T.Mourez (@tmourez)
Day 1
Arrival & Welcome
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Photo: T.Mourez (@tmourez)
Day 2
Journey to Kruger
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Photo: T.Mourez (@tmourez)
Day 3
Full Day Safari
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Photo: T.Mourez (@tmourez)
Day 4
Return to Johannesburg and overnight
Day 5
Departure Morning
Daily itinerary
Photo: T.Mourez (@tmourez)
Day 1
Arrival & Welcome
Day 1
Arrival & Welcome
Your adventure begins as you are picked up from Johannesburg International Airport. After a comfortable transfer, settle in and enjoy your time at your handpicked guesthouse. End your day with a welcome dinner at 19:00, featuring local South African specialties.
Meals & Refreshments
Lodge meals are included in Fully Inclusive packages, but depend on rate plan for Standard packages.
- Welcome Dinner (19:00-20:00)
Daily activities
- Airport Welcome
- Hotel Transfer
- Welcome Dinner
Photo: T.Mourez (@tmourez)
Day 2
Journey to Kruger
Day 2
Journey to Kruger
Wake up early for breakfast at 06:00 before your transfer to the Greater Kruger, leaving 07:40 from OR Tambo. Arrive at your lodge early afternoon, followed by time to settle in. At 16:00, embark on your first game drive, stopping for sundowners in the bush as the African sun sets. Return to the lodge for a memorable dinner under the stars.
Meals & Refreshments
Lodge meals are included in Fully Inclusive packages, but depend on rate plan for Standard packages.
- Early Breakfast (06:00-07:00)
- Lunch - own account
- Dinner (19:30-21:00)
Daily activities
* * Game drives must be chosen and paid on site
- Breakfast (06:00)
- Transfer to Hoedspruit (07:40-14:30)
- Lodge transfer & Check-in
- * Afternoon Game Drive and Sundowner (16:00-19:00)*
- Starlit Dinner (19:30)
Photo: T.Mourez (@tmourez)
Day 3
Full Day Safari
Day 3
Full Day Safari
Your day begins before dawn at 05:00 with coffee and light snacks before your early morning game drive at 05:30. Return to the lodge for a full breakfast at 09:30. Mid-morning offers the option of a guided bush walk. After lunch and some relaxation time, head out for your afternoon game drive at 15:30. The day concludes with a dinner under the African sky.
Meals & Refreshments
Lodge meals are included in Fully Inclusive packages, but depend on rate plan for Standard packages.
- Light Breakfast (05:00-05:30)
- Full Breakfast (09:30-10:30)
- Lunch (13:00-14:00)
- Dinner (19:30-21:00)
Daily activities
* * Game drives must be chosen and paid on site
- Morning Coffee (05:00)
- Dawn Game Drive (05:30-09:00)*
- Leisure time (10:30-15:00)
- * Afternoon Game Drive and Sundowner (16:00-19:00)*
Photo: T.Mourez (@tmourez)
Day 4
Return to Johannesburg and overnight
Day 4
Return to Johannesburg and overnight
Make the most of your last morning with an early game drive at 05:30, followed by farewell breakfast at 09:30. After checkout at 11:00, begin your return to Johannesburg. Check in to your city hotel for your final night, enjoy dinner and prepare for your departure the next morning. This ensures a comfortable and relaxed end to your safari adventure.
Meals & Refreshments
Lodge meals are included in Fully Inclusive packages, but depend on rate plan for Standard packages.
- Light breakfast (05:00-05:30)
- Farewell breakfast (09:30-10:30)
- Dinner (19:00-21:00)
Daily activities
* * Game drives must be chosen and paid on site
- Final game drive (05:30-09:00)*
- Lodge checkout (11:00)
- Transfer to Johannesburg (11:30-16:30)
- City hotel check-in (17:00)
- Dinner (19:00)
- Next day: Hotel checkout (Morning)
Day 5
Departure Morning
Day 5
Departure Morning
Relaxed breakfast at hotel, checkout and coordinated transfer to airport after your overnight in Johannesburg.
Meals & Refreshments
Lodge meals are included in Fully Inclusive packages, but depend on rate plan for Standard packages.
- Hotel Breakfast (07:00-09:00)
Daily activities
- Morning Checkout
- Airport Transfer (timed to your flight)
Our selected accommodations
We work with a hand-picked collection of lodges and trusted hotel groups to maintain consistent quality and service. In South Africa, this includes partners within The Perfections Group alongside independent gems in Greater Kruger.
Lodges in Johannesburg
Safari Club SA
Born out of a desire to offer guests a true safari feel throughout their entire African trip, we created the ultimate bespoke overnight accommodation only 5 minutes from OR Tambo airport.
Ratings
Sunrock Guesthouse
Just minutes from OR Tambo International Airport, Sunrock Guesthouse provides a tranquil, home-away-from-home experience for travelers. Nestled in a lush garden with mature tropical trees, vibrant flowers, and fragrant roses, it's the perfect retreat to unwind.
Ratings
Lodges at Kruger National Park
Sunbirds Oasis Lodge
Sunbirds Oasis Lodge offers an idyllic retreat where comfort meets charm with thoughtfully designed rooms and suites for every traveller, from couples to families, with modern amenities, pool, and garden views.
Ratings
Panzi Lodge
Nestled in the heart of Limpopo's Greater Kruger Region, Panzi Lodge offers an immersive retreat where African adventure meets contemporary comfort.
Ratings
Thornhill Safari Lodge
Thornhill Safari Lodge offers an authentic and immersive Kruger Safari experience, blending exhilarating Big Five game drives with enriching local cultural encounters, all while providing luxurious and comfortable Kruger accommodation.
Ratings
What to Bring
Photography Equipment
- Camera with zoom lens (minimum 200-300mm)
- Extra batteries and memory cards
- Camera cleaning kit
- Binoculars (8x40 or 10x42 recommended)
Clothing & Protection
- Neutral-colored clothing (avoid bright colors)
- Lightweight long sleeve shirts and long pants
- Wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses
- Sturdy walking shoes or boots
- Warm jacket for morning game drives
- Sunscreen (SPF 30+ recommended)
- Insect repellent
Personal Items
- Personal medications
- Small first aid kit
- Power adapter
- Flashlight or headlamp
- Reusable water bottle
- Day pack for game drives
Important Notes
How Our Trips Work
- Private travel (no group) - activities are run by lodges and local partners
- We coordinate stays and shuttles so you can travel at your own pace
- Most activities are in small groups or shared with the lodge; private options depend on availability
Availability & Pricing
- Prices shown are for all travelers together and adjust instantly when you select inclusions
- Availability may shift until payment; we'll suggest the closest dates if your first choice is no longer available
- Rates are only secured after payment confirmation
Payments & Refunds
- Card payments are processed in ZAR; any other currency displayed is an estimate
- Refunds follow the Refund & Cancellation Policy and provider terms
- We confirm with all providers immediately after successful payment
Health, Visas & Insurance
- Check visa requirements and passport validity for your destination and any transit countries
- Travel insurance is required and should cover medical care and cancellations
- Consult your doctor for vaccinations or malaria prophylaxis recommendations
Transfers & Shuttles
- Airport transfers are arranged directly between travelers and arrival/departure lodges
- Shuttles connect lodges—there is no group coach tour
- Opting out of shuttles means you will self-drive or arrange your own transfers
Meals & Dietary Notes
- Light lunches are marked LL; breakfasts and dinners are at lodges unless stated otherwise
- Most lodges can handle dietary requests with advance notice
- Some activities include snacks; alcohol is usually not included
More questions?
Curious about our shuttle model, guides, or payment security?
Check our Frequently Asked Questions →