- Information
- Tour Plan
- Location
- Similar Tours
- Additional Info
What's included
- Accommodation in lodges
- Assistance when you arrive and when you depart
- Breakfasts
- Entrance fees to parks and planned activities
- Lunches
- Overland transport
- Suppers
- Well equipped camps
- Air transport
- Any activity not on the agreed curriculum
- Cancellation and baggage insurance
- Extras and personal expenses
The objective of this tour is for our guests to sit back, relax in the comfort of our luxury bus with it’s unique feature of oversized windows for exceptional photographic opportunities. We travel from the well-known Big Five Country, the Kruger National Park bearing witness to indigenous Fauna & Flora down to Cape Town, home of Table Mountain and all it has to offer.
- Day 1
- Day 2
- Day 3
- Day 4
- Day 5
- Day 6
- Day 7
- Day 8
- Day 9
- Day 10
- Day 11
- Day 12
- Day 13
- Day 14
- Day 15
- Day 16
- Day 17
- Day 18
- Day 19
- Day 20
- Day 21
- Day 22
- Day 23 & 24
Panoramic Route to the Kruger National Park
We leave Johannesburg en route to Kruger Park we will stop or pass through:
Sudwala Caves (Lydenburg Road)
A dolomite cave system 240 million years old and known for its mineral rock formations turning floors and ceilings into natural works of art. Hour-long guided tours take visitors into the largest chamber, often used as a concert venue
Pass over the Long Tom Pass on route to Lydenburg
The route up Long Tom Pass starts at 1456 m and climbs 682 vertical metres to an altitude of 2138 m at its end. The summit of the pass lies at an altitude of 2150 m with evidence of the battles of the 2nd Boer war and a monument commemorating the last use of the Boer 155 mm Creusot Long Tom guns during the Second Boer War which is located in the pass
Pilgrims Rest – 1 hour stop
We leave Johannesburg and en route to Kruger Park we will stop for lunch at the historic village of Pilgrims Rest. Pilgrims Rest is situated on the magnificent Panorama Route and in Pilgrims Rest you find an abundance of natural, cultural and historic gems. Pilgrims Rest offers you a fascinating window into the past and captures the spirit of a bygone era and their people in the quest for gold.
The historic village of Pilgrims Rest is situated on the magnificent Panorama Route.
In Pilgrims Rest you find an abundance of natural, cultural and historic gems. Pilgrims Rest offers you a fascinating window into the past and captures the spirit of a bygone era and their people in the quest for gold. Don’t forget the graveyard and a cold beer in the historic Royal Hotel bar
On route to Graskop we pass through Sabie
Graskop
- Stop over for lunch at Peter’s Pancakes
- Visit one of the waterfalls in Graskop and
- Visit the Pinnacle where on a clear day you can see forever
Kruger National Park
We will enter the park at Orpen Gate and make our way to camp where you can put your feet up and enjoy the sounds of Africa in the Kruger National Park while sipping your favourite sundowner.
- Camp at any of the camps available i.e. Orpen, Satara or a bit more north Oliphant’s
Today we have a full day for game viewing at leisure heading south and camp at Skukuza (main camp of the Kruger National Park)
Today we have a full day for game viewing at leisure camp at Berg en Dal Camp and arrange for a night drive an unbelievable experience
From Berg en Dal out at Malelane Gate we travel towards Swaziland to drive through and explore this friendly country.
But before we cross the border into Swaziland we first stop at Kwa Madwala Elephant walks for an amazing encounter with these majestic and fascinating animals.
We pass into Swaziland through another historic gold diggers town of Baberton and over the beautiful Dragensberg through the border post of Josefsdal into the Kingdom of Swaziland.
Swaziland is a rural charm where lots of people come to visit. It is well known for arts and crafts. South Africa held Swaziland as a protectorate from 1894 to 1899, but after the Boer War, in 1902, Swaziland was transferred to British administration. The paramount chief was recognized as the native authority in 1941. In 1963, the territory was constituted a protectorate, and on Sept. 6, 1968, it became the independent nation of Swaziland.
Your overnight will be at a Game Reserve in Swaziland.
From Swaziland we exit and entre Northern Kwa Zulu Natal at Golela border post and travel south past Jozini Dam, Mkuze and Hluhluwe to St.Lucia.
St. Lucia was formed about 60 to 100 million years ago when the Indian Ocean withdrew from the sandy coastal regions of Kwazulu Natal. The greater St. Lucia Wetlands is one of the world’s great eco-tourism destinations.
The Convention on Wetlands of International Importance has listed St.Lucia as having international conservation value. The region also satisfies the criteria for listing as a UNESCO World Heritage area.
Today is not a far drive so you can still enjoy your morning in Swaziland.
You have one more day to explore St.Lucia or enjoy one of the many activities such as the boat cruise on the lake of St Lucia where the birdlife is in abundance and hippos lazing in the water…
Sundowners on the beach – weather permitting
Overnight in St. Lucia.
From St. Lucia you travel towards Eshowe for a cultural day and night at Shakaland.
At Shakaland Experience the sight of assegai-wielding Zulu warriors, share the fascinating secrets of the Sangomas and witness traditional customs such as tribal dancing, spear making and the beer-drinking ceremonies. Your program starts at 16h00 pm, so you should be there half an hour before that.
Overnight in Shakaland.
After your morning program at Shakaland you travel to the coast to Uhmlanga Rocks.
If time allows you can still enjoy the golden beaches and warm waters of the Indian Ocean.
Keeping along the coast we travel to the very popular Margate offering a reptile & crocodile park over and above the splendour of its beaches
Lies in the shadow of of Mount Currie and known for its cheese. The name was derived from its Griqua leader Adam Kok and is a treasure of historical information about the Griqua people who make up an integral part of our rainbow nation.
This is the centre of tourism on the Wild Coast. It is a treasure of both traditional and modern cultures. Visit from the picturesque 1st Beach to the Light Houses.
Is home to the unique structure called “The hole in the wall”. This has been carved by the waves over eons. The impressive Magwa Waterfall is also part of this rugged coastline.
Conservation is the goal of this Nature Reserve. Community upliftment, involvement and stimulation is clearly visible in this 23 000ha pristine valley Busveld which houses an abundance of wildlife
Addo Elephant Park needs no introduction, 600 elephant roam the dense valley Bushveld along the Sundays River. Between the prolific Spekboom sightings of from Lion, to Ostrich can be seen. Along the dunes you will experiences penguin colonies.
The Kloof River runs through the Baviaanskloof with scenic gorges set between two sets of mountain ranges, the Kouga and the Baviaanskloof. Travel along the red rock faces of this rugged, uncultured but beautiful terrain with stops at the villages Hankey,where Saartjie Baartman was laid to rest, Loerie and Patensie
Is set on the edge of the Karoo where the Cango Caves are a very popular attraction, followed closely by visits to Ostrich Farms and historical buildings.
Down the winding gravel road of the Gamkaskloof along mountains vand gorges with bedazzling vegetation you will find The Hell where the remnants of farming communities and a school are still evident.
In remembrance of the past martine Portuguese explorers the Bartolomeu Dias museum complex was established and presents a replica of the original ship on which he travelled to get the Cape. The aquarium and a comprehensive shell collection make up part of this complex.
This route takes you through the Robertson wine valley, Rhebokskraal Olive Estate and a tractor trip through the fruit orchids of Montagu.
Is a marine protected area which is part of the Whale Trail
This is at the tip of Africa where the warm Indian and the cold Atlantic oceans meet. De Mond Nature Reserve and the Light House form part of the attraction. The penguin rehab centre is a success story with many being saved after oil spills
Is a seaside town with a old harbour and a fisherman’s village from where you can take the wine route and visit to the Whale house museum.
One of the most beautiful cities in the world where you can visit the iconic Table Mountain by cable car. Experience the electric mix of cultures.
The versatility from Robben Island where Madiba was a prisoner for 27 years to the quite of the Kirstenbosch Botanical Gardens. V & A Waterfront is an experience to behold.
This city which has 300 years of sophisticated roots planted by the Dutch and English will mesmerise you as you experience the rich contrast of Chapman’s Peak along the coast to museums and galleries. Wine Estates, forests and beaches are the climax of our tour!
More about Baviaanskloof
More about Breede River
More about Cape Agulhus
More about Cape Town
More about Coffee Bay
More about De Hoop Nature Reserve
More about Double Drift Nature Reserve
More about Durban
More about Gamkaskloof
More about Graskop
More about Hermanus
More about Johannesburg
More about Kokstad
More about Kruger National Park
More about Long Tom Pass
More about Margate
More about Oudtshoorn
More about Pilgrims Rest
More about Port St. Johns
More about St. Lucia
More about Sudwala Caves
More about Umhlanga Rocks
A bit more info on Overlanding
All overland vehicles are custom built to endure the unpredictable African roads and carry everything needed for the overland tour; including food, camping gear, tents, tables & chairs.
We have a range of camping and accommodated tours tailor made to suit your needs from, small to larger group tours to younger or older group tours, to suit your travel needs and budget.
Most tours require limited participation whereby travellers assist with pitching their own tents and helping out at meal times.
What should be in your bag for your trip?
A backpack is more compatible with the luggage compartment space under the carriage of the vehicle, Pack sensibly to ensure minimum hassle. Keep in mind that you must keep a weight allowance for your curio shopping items to take home. You are allowed a 20kg bag and a 5kg hand luggage allowance.
Wash & wear and reversable clothing items will make your life a lot easier as laundry facilities are often few and far between
A few suggestions to help you pack
- 3-4 short sleeved shirts or T-shirts
- 2 pairs of trousers or 1 pair and 1 skirt – try not to pack jeans as they take a long time to dry
- ¾ pants
- 1 Warm sweater or fleece top
- 1-2 pairs of shorts
- 1 Tracksuit pants
- 1 Light sweater or sweatshirt (can also be used as an additional pillow)
- 1 Warm fleece top
- Underwear and socks
- 1 Hat/peak cap/bandana
- 1 Gloves
- 1 Scarf
- 1 Water/wind-proof jacket
- 1 pair of Boots or walking shoes
Should your trip include going to the Beach, remember to pack:
- 1 Swimming Costume
- 1 pair of Sunglasses
- 1 Beach towel and/or sarong
- 1 Pair of Sandals.
Your Toiletry bag should have the following:
- All your personal toiletries,
- Hand sanitiser/wipes
- Tissues
- Moisturiser
Sleepwear will include:
- Pyjamas
- Travel pillow & pillowcase
- Sleeping Bag and a light blanket
Medication and items for your first aid kit:
- Prescription medication
- Anti-histamine cream or tablets
- Antiseptic cream
- Sunscreen (high factor) and lip balm
- Water purifying tablets
- Pain killers
- Diarrhoea medication
- Moisturiser
- Dehydration salts
- Elastoplasts
- Insect repellent
- Sterile dressings
Handy Optional Extras can include:
- Water bottle
- Book to read
- Extra memory/film for your camera
- Head torch
- Zip-lock bags (medium sized for cameras, snacks, trash etc.)
- Extra batteries
- Travel power strip ( a compact three-plug unit that includes two USB connections. With just one wall plug you can charge five gadgets) Buy on Amazon
Pre-Departure Meeting
The pre-departure meeting is held at 18h00 the night before we depart. This is to ensure that everything is in place to avoid any delays.
Quality and Protection
We are a SATSA member. This means that SATSA is the Southern Africa Tourism Services Association and offers protection to international travellers against the possible loss of deposits (or monies paid) to a SATSA member (tour operator, car rental company, accommodation provider etc.), in case of liquidation. It is underwritten by Lombard Insurance and Lloyds of London.
SATSA is the driving force behind improving standards of tourism in South Africa, as offered by its various members.
“Should a SATSA member who is a South African tourism business operation, run into financial problems, the bonding scheme allows the client to claim back their deposit without having to prove in a court or to the liquidator whom or what was paid, but simply to produce the relevant documentation to SATSA.” – Michael Tatalias, CEO SATSA.
How to work out your financial requirements?
When working on your budget remember to include the following:
Basic Tour Cost:
- The complete Tour Price
Additional Tour Costs could include the following:
- International flights including your visas
- Your accommodation before and after the tour.
- Your Spending money, keeping in mind variations depending on chosen activities.
- Money for take home gifts for friends and family.
- Mad Money for the unforeseen expense.
- Should you wish to tip your guide and or crew members.
Visas are required by most travellers to Africa and determined based on your nationality (your passport). We recommend contacting the relevant African country Consulate / Embassy to check your requirements, as this information changes regularly.
Optional activities vary based on your chosen overland tour and your personal preference. It is best to work through the optional activities available on your chosen tour, tally-up your total and see how this fits into your budget. All optional activities are booked with your Tour Leader once you are on tour. Most can be paid in cash.
We offer semi-inclusive camping or accommodated tours, already including popular excursions available en-route.
Vaccinations
To stay healthy on your trip be sure to take the right vaccinations for your trip to Africa
We advise an appointment with your local doctor (General Practitioner) for best advice on vaccines required for the countries you intend to visit. Remember the two most important ones are Yellow fever and Malaria.
Yellow Fever is required by law for all travellers entering into Zambia, Malawi and Tanzania. Having travelled in a yellow fever area, you may be required to show proof of your yellow fever vaccination upon returning to your home country.
Malaria is rife throughout Southern and East Africa, which is considered a high-risk area.
Your local General Practioner may also recommend either/or of the following vaccinations depending on the country to which you are travelling: Tetanus, Typhoid, Rabies, Polio, Hepatitis A and B and Meningitis.
Remember the time line is four to six weeks prior to your departure.
Your Crew and Guides
Tour Crew
These are the people to tap for knowledge. They almost know it all from history and culture to the local Fauna and Flora.
Most overland tours include two crew members (Driver and Tour Leader) working as a team managing tour finances, planning activities, preparing meals and ensuring that you safely experience Africa and all its offerings.
The Guides
The guides and crew are passionate and up to date with all relevant information. Please feel free to ask and interact with them.
The Vehicle
Our overland vehicles are custom build to offer maximum comfort with extra-large windows for those unforgettable pics as well as the ability to handle the rugged African terrain.
Adventure Travel Insurance
It is compulsory to have comprehensive adventure travel insurance, on all overland tours. We require your travel insurance details upon booking your vacation.
Make sure that you are covered for adrenaline sport and adventure activities should you wish to partake in any of them. These include white-water rafting, sky diving and bungee jumping.
World Nomads Insurance offer adventure travel insurance and cancellation insurance. We recommend your travel insurance includes cancellation and curtailment insurance. The majority of tour departures are guaranteed (confirmed to depart) but in the unlikely event of a tour departure being cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances, you would be protected.
For credit card insurance, we suggest you check the fine print to ensure you have adequate cover as credit card companies offer a standard option.
If you choose to use your credit card insurance, you will need to call your bank to obtain your policy details. This is how:
• Phone your bank
• Give them your Bank Card Number
• Verify your account
• You need to ask for the insurance company name
• You need to ask for the policy number
• Remember to keep the telephone number you dialled
Get your Travel Insurance Now!
Visas
You will need a valid passport for all international travel. Passports must be valid for at least 6 months after returning from your trip. In certain cases, foreign passport holders require entry, re-entry or departure permits and/or visas to enter a country.
Remember to contact the relevant authorities / embassies in good time to check and arrange the necessary permits and visas prior to your departure. Don’t trust websites (such as wikipedia) as information can be outdated.
All travellers must be in possession of a valid onward/return air ticket or proof of other means of transport enabling the traveller to leave the country in which your tour terminates. Or else you must have proof of sufficient funds (e.g. credit card) enabling you to purchase an air ticket to leave the country.
Please note that your visas are your responsibility.
The contact details for the various embassies
Visit GoAbroad.com, for details and phone the nearest consulate for up to date information.
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Contacting Us
Electronic mail to: info@africaepicsafaris.co.za
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