Exploring the diverse landscapes of South Africa’s renowned Kruger National Park, St Lucia, and Sodwana Bay, this 8-day safari tour promises an unforgettable adventure. Guests will embark on a seamless journey, guided by knowledgeable professionals who’ll bring the region’s natural wonders to life. From scenic drives along the Panorama Route to thrilling game drives in search of the Big Five, this comprehensive itinerary offers a well-rounded experience. Whether it’s spotting wildlife or indulging in beach activities, travelers can expect a captivating blend of nature, wildlife, and relaxation. With comfortable accommodations and a focus on creating lasting memories, this safari tour is sure to leave a lasting impression.
This experience made our list of the 4 Best Safari Tours In Graskop.
Key Points
- 8-day safari tour from Johannesburg covering Kruger National Park, Panorama Route, St Lucia, and Sodwana Bay.
- Priced from $2,416.29 per person with private guide, vehicle, accommodation, and some meals included.
- Highlights include game drives in Kruger, exploring Graskop Gorge, and boat cruise to spot hippos and crocodiles in St Lucia.
- Tour not suitable for children under 10 or wheelchair users, and additional activities incur extra fees.
- Customizable tour options available upon request, with fuel costs and some meals not included in the base price.
Tour Overview
This 8-day safari tour from Johannesburg to Kruger National Park, Panorama Route, St Lucia, and Sodwana offers an immersive experience in South Africa’s diverse natural landscapes.
Priced from $2,416.29 per person, the tour provides a private guide and vehicle throughout. Travelers can enjoy free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund and take advantage of the reserve now and pay later option.
The itinerary highlights include exploring the Panorama Route, going on full-day safari game drives in Kruger National Park, and experiencing beach and marine activities in Sodwana Bay and St Lucia.
Accommodation and meals are included at various lodges along the way.
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Itinerary Highlights
Commencing the tour, travelers depart from Johannesburg and journey to the breathtaking Panorama Route.
They’ll stop at the Graskop Gorge Lift, taking in the stunning views of the Lisbon Falls and the aptly named God’s Window.
The next two days are spent on thrilling game drives in Kruger National Park, led by a professional guide.
After exploring Eswatini, the group arrives at Sodwana Bay for beach adventures and scuba diving in the Maputaland Marine Reserve.
The final days are spent in the tranquil town of St Lucia, where a boat cruise on the estuary offers the chance to spot hippos and crocodiles.
Accommodation and Inclusions
The Kruger National Park safari tour provides a variety of accommodations throughout the journey.
Guests will spend the first night at Panorama Chalets, which offer stunning views of the Blyde River Canyon.
They’ll then move on to Calabash Safari Lodge for three nights, where meals are included.
The tour then takes them to Coral Divers for one night, with meals provided.
The final two nights are spent at St Lucia Eco Lodge, with breakfast included.
The tour also includes private transportation, bottled water, entrance fees, and safari activities.
However, fuel costs for day trips, beverages, and some meals are excluded.
Exclusions and Additional Costs
While the Kruger National Park safari tour includes a comprehensive package, there are some additional costs travelers should be aware of. The fuel costs for day trips not included in the tour price are charged at $0.30 per kilometer. Plus, beverages outside of breakfast and water during transportation are not covered. Lunch and dinner are also not included at various locations throughout the tour. Any activities not listed under the inclusions section will incur additional fees.
| Exclusion | Cost |
|---|---|
| Fuel for day trips | $0.30 per km |
| Beverages (except breakfast and water) | Not covered |
| Lunch and dinner | Not included |
| Additional activities | Varies |
Panorama Route Exploration
On the first day of the safari, travelers depart from Johannesburg and make their way to the breathtaking Panorama Route.
This scenic drive offers a feast for the eyes, with several must-see stops along the way:
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Graskop Gorge Lift, where visitors can descend into a lush canyon and explore its natural wonders.
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Lisbon Falls, a stunning 93-meter waterfall cascading over a dramatic cliff.
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God’s Window, a breathtaking viewpoint that overlooks the vast Blyde River Canyon.
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The charming Panorama Chalets, where travelers will spend the night, enjoying the panoramic views of the Blyde River Canyon.
Kruger National Park Safari
After marveling at the breathtaking scenery of the Panorama Route, the safari continues its journey towards the iconic Kruger National Park. Here, guests will enjoy two full days of guided game drives, led by experienced professionals. Spotting the Big Five – lions, leopards, rhinoceros, elephants, and buffaloes – is the ultimate goal, and the diverse landscape of the park offers the best chances of achieving this.
| Day | Itinerary |
|---|---|
| Day 3 | Full-day safari game drives in Kruger National Park |
| Day 4 | Full-day safari game drives in Kruger National Park |
The thrill of observing these magnificent animals in their natural habitat is an unforgettable experience, cementing Kruger as a highlight of the tour.
Sodwana Bay Beach Adventure
The safari moves on from the expansive Kruger National Park, taking travelers through the Kingdom of Eswatini to the picturesque Sodwana Bay.
This coastal paradise offers a range of activities to immerse visitors in the natural wonders of the region:
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Scuba diving in the Maputaland Marine Reserve, where vibrant coral reefs and diverse marine life await.
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Deep sea fishing, with the chance to reel in trophy-sized gamefish.
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Relaxing nature walks along the pristine beaches, taking in the sights and sounds of the Indian Ocean.
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Exploring the nearby St. Lucia Estuary by boat, spotting hippos, crocodiles, and a variety of bird species.
Important Information
This safari tour is not suitable for children under 10 years old or wheelchair users due to the nature of the activities and terrain. Guests should bring their passports and be aware that feeding wildlife is strictly prohibited. The tour can be customized upon request, and interested parties are encouraged to contact the tour provider via email or their website for more information.
| Important Information | |||
|---|---|---|---|
| Suitable for | Ages 10+ | No wheelchair | |
| Bring | Passport | ||
| Prohibited | Feeding animals | ||
| Customizable | Contact provider |
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Recommended Packing List for This Safari Tour?
The recommended packing list includes comfortable clothing, sun protection, hiking shoes, swimwear, insect repellent, binoculars, and a camera. Travelers should also pack a light jacket for cooler temperatures and bring any necessary medications. It’s best to pack light and layered for versatility.
Can We Customize the Itinerary to Suit Our Preferences?
Yes, the tour is customizable. Travelers can contact the tour provider via email or the website to discuss modifying the itinerary to suit their preferences, such as adding or removing activities or adjusting the duration of the tour.
Are Airport Transfers Provided at the Start and End of the Tour?
Airport transfers aren’t included in the standard tour package. However, the tour operator offers customizable options, so travelers can inquire about adding airport transfers at the start and end of the tour for an additional cost.
Is Gratuity for the Guide and Driver Included in the Tour Price?
The tour price doesn’t include gratuity for the guide and driver. Guests are expected to provide tips at their discretion based on the service received during the safari experience.
Can We Book Additional Activities Not Listed in the Inclusions?
Yes, the tour is customizable, so travelers can book additional activities not listed in the inclusions. They can contact the tour provider via email or website to inquire about and arrange any extra activities they’re interested in.
The Sum Up
This 8-day safari tour offers an unforgettable experience exploring Kruger National Park, St Lucia, and Sodwana Bay. Travelers can expect scenic drives, thrilling game drives, and relaxing beach activities, all while staying in comfortable lodges with a private guide. This captivating journey through South Africa’s stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife is sure to create lasting memories.
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