SOUTH AFRICAN SURPRISE
An expedition of surprise, our South African Surprise package is a collection of experiences unique to South Africa.
South Africa is a country of vast contrasts of landscapes, a thrill-seekers paradise, a wildlife enthusiast dream, and
a photographer’s canvas.
Beginning in Johannesburg, highlights include the Kruger National Park, where wildlife never seizes to amaze, and
the Panorama Route is a wonder of natural sights. It’s then on to eSwatini and Zululand, two regions steeped in
ancient culture and tradition. The Southern Drakensberg Mountains forms a great part of this package, where
nature rejuvenates the soul. The last leg includes trips to the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, a world hero and
revolutionary, and the famed Garden Route region, ending in the Mother City, Cape Town.
Highlights
- Experience a game safari in the Kruger National Park
- Meet the friendly people of eSwatini (Swaziland) and experience their culture through singing and dancing
- Visit the spectacular scenic Three Rondavels, Bourke’s Luck Potholes and God’s Window
- Orientation tour of Durban including a visit to the Durban Botanic Gardens
- Visit to the charming village of Howick and its impressive waterfall
Itinerary
On arrival in Johannesburg at OR Tambo International Airport, you’ll be met by your representative and assisted to your
shuttle transfer service (unescorted, driver only) that will transfer you to your hotel. You have the remainder of the day at
leisure until 19h00 when we all meet at the hotel reception for a welcome briefing on the tour and a chance to meet your
fellow travellers
This morning we leave for Mpumalanga, dropping several hundred feet into the lush subtropical region of the Lowveld. Travel
along the circular Panorama Route, visiting the view sites of the Blyde River Canyon, home to the Three Rondavels and one of
the natural wonders of Africa; gasp at the glory of God’s Window, with a boundless view of mountains and fertile plains and
visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 500 kms
We have a bright and early start to the day to experience the wonders of exploring the Kruger National Park in our closed
vehicle. Why not join a thrilling open-vehicle game safari through the Kruger National Park (optional and for own account)?
The Kruger National Park is an internationally renowned game reserve of nearly 2 million hectares that supports the largest
variety of wildlife species on the African continent. Keep a lookout for the wonderful flora and bird life that abounds. We
return to our hotel around lunch time and your afternoon is at leisure to relax. [Packed Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 200 kms
This morning we travel to eSwatini (Swaziland), an independent Kingdom within the borders of South Africa, known for its
lovely scenery, crafts and colourful indigenous culture. An interactive cultural experience introduces us to the charming people
of eSwatini and their traditions. We travel south to our hotel, nestled in the mountainous peaks of eSwatini (Swaziland) for
overnight. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 200 kms
After breakfast we journey through eSwatini (Swaziland), visiting Ngwenya Glass, where a small group of eSwati craftsmen and
women create beautiful handmade items from recycled glass. Our next stop is The Swazi Candles Centre where you will
experience local artisans creating colourful, handmade candles. Our journey continues into the Kingdom of KwaZulu-Natal
where ancient traditions and modern cultures of both Zulu and Settler have combined into a vibrant society living in peace and
harmony. Arrive at your hotel in the late afternoon for overnight. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 375 kms
Guests have the option to take a morning optional open vehicle game drive in the Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve (optional
and for own account), before heading off to Durban. An orientation tour of Durban, that travels along the Golden Mile, the
beachfront promenade, The Point Waterfront, and harbour introduces us to this multicultural, vibrant seaside city. The
orientation tour concludes with a visit to the Durban Botanic Gardens before arriving at our hotel late afternoon. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 320 kms
Enjoy a leisurely breakfast or perhaps explore the bustling Umhlanga Beach with a stroll along the Promenade mile that buzzes
with energy as surfers, joggers and cyclists take to this seaside playground. Then we head into the majestic Southern
Drakensberg Mountains. We visit the impressive 300-foot-high Howick Falls, located in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands town of
Howick. Our journey continues through the Southern Midlands Meander Route, arriving at our hotel, situated on a scenic
World Heritage site, mid-afternoon. Your afternoon is at leisure to soak up the surroundings, or enjoy fishing, hiking and even
horse riding in clean mountain air (all activities are optional and for own account). Sit down to a sumptuous dinner at your
hotel. [Breakfast & Dinner]
Distance travelled today: 280 kms
Enjoy a full day at leisure to soak up the surroundings of the magnificent Southern Drakensberg Mountains. There are also
many leisure activities to be enjoyed at the Resort. Consider joining a thrilling 4x4 tour up the spectacular Sani Pass into the
mountain Kingdom of Lesotho (optional and for own account). Enjoy an evening dinner at your hotel with a wide variety of
local specialities to choose from. [Breakfast & Dinner]
This morning we continue south to the Eastern Cape entering the fourth of the provinces and the birthplace of Nelson Mandela
(fondly known as Madiba). En route we see the old traditional way of life in the former homeland area known as the Transkei
and stop for lunch (own account) outside the capital of Mthata. We travel past Nelson Mandela’s birthplace and house,
arriving late afternoon at our accommodation in Chinsta East, on the beautiful, unspoilt Eastern Cape Coast. A delicious dinner
with local delicacies awaits you at your lodge. [Breakfast & Dinner]
Distance travelled today: 520 kms
We awake to the sounds of the crashing waves and have the morning at leisure to unwind with beach sand between our toes.
The beach stretches on uninterrupted for many kilometres and the thick indigenous beach forest is a haven for an amazing
variety of birdlife. We set off heading south to the Tsitsikamma Forest. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 510 kms
After a leisurely breakfast, visit the spectacularly beautiful Tsitsikamma Forest, which provides scenic walking opportunities. A
short walk to the Storms River Mouth offers some magnificent views of the gorge and river below. Arrive in Knysna, known as
the oyster box of South Africa, for check in at your hotel. Enjoy a dinner filled with culinary delights at the hotel’s trendy
restaurant. [Breakfast & Dinner]
Distance travelled today: 92 kms
After breakfast, we travel inland over the spectacular Outeniqua Pass to Oudtshoorn, known as the ‘feather capital of the
world’ because of its ostrich industry. We visit a working ostrich farm and then explore the famous Cango Caves, with a walk
around its magnificent dripstone formations of stalactites and stalagmites. Overnight in Oudtshoorn. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 180 kms
Today’s journey travels along the famous Route 62 and through the Little Karoo, ending in Cape Town. On the way we stop off
to sample top quality port style wines in Calitzdorp, before continuing via Worcester and the Huguenot Tunnel, arriving in Cape
Town in the late afternoon. [Breakfast]
Distance travelled today: 420 km
Enjoy a full day at leisure. Perhaps join a sightseeing tour of Cape Town and Table Mountain (optional and for own account) or
spend the day exploring the magnificent Cape Winelands on a full day winelands tour (optional and for own account) or join a
full day tour of the Cape Peninsula, with its dramatic coastline and spectacular scenic beauty (optional and for own account).
Although a small city, Cape Town is packed with sightseeing attractions, excellent bars, cafes, and restaurants as well as
colourful craft markets. Alternatively relax on one of Cape Town’s many pristine beaches. Overnight in Cape Town. [Breakfast]
This morning after breakfast, check out of the hotel by 11h00. The remainder of the day will be at leisure until your transfer to
Cape Town International airport. [Breakfast]
Key Information
What Is Included:
- 18 Meals: 14 breakfasts, 4 dinners including gratuities
- 14 Nights’ accommodation including porterage
- Transportation including toll fees in air-conditioned vehicles
- Services of a professional English-speaking tour guide
- Entrance fees as specified in the itinerary
What is not included:
- travel insurance
- Single Accommodation (available on request)
- Visas or vaccinations
Essential Info
This trip is graded Activity Level 3 (Moderate). For more on our trip gradings, visit our Activity Level Guidelines page.
There are a few long drives (the longest being six to seven hours on the first and last days) but the reward is a trip that offers an amazing variety of walking through diverse scenery, plus exciting wildlife viewing, in a comparatively short time.
This is primarily a walking trip, although there is still time to enjoy an organised safari to Kruger National Park. This trip has been rated Activity Level 3 (Moderate). Good health and reasonable fitness are important, and you should take regular exercise before travelling. Moderate trips are either fairly easy medium-duration walks or harder, shorter walks. There is some walking at higher altitudes, with occasional longer or tougher days. Underfoot conditions are generally fair. On Day 7, expect hot conditions with limited shade. On Day 10, there is a small river crossing which we wade across, only when conditions are safe. The highest altitude reached is 9,515ft (2,900m), and walking days are normally four to eight hours long.
There are some ladders to climb while walking in the Drakensberg. The ladders are in two sections: a longer one (approximately 100ft/30m) and a shorter one (about 50ft/15m). Neither ladder is completely vertical, and both are metal ladders with wide, square-edged footholds and sturdy handholds. While they are not particularly physically challenging, some may find them mentally challenging. However, the breathtaking views from the escarpment make the effort worthwhile. Our expert guides are highly experienced in assisting clients on the ladders and are always ready to help.
The best time for game viewing is generally from July to September, as visibility improves when trees lose their leaves and animals gather around water sources. During this period, however, the landscape is drier than earlier in the season. April to June offer the most picturesque scenery, while migratory birds are typically present between October and April.
Legal note: All participants joining this tour will be asked to sign an indemnity form at the start of the trip. This indemnity form is a requirement of the South African Tourism Service Association, of which our local partner is a member. As a client of Outgoing Travels, your rights under the relevant Package Travel Regulations remain fully protected, and Outgoing Travels remains responsible for the actions of our subcontractors.
Following a review of all our trips, we have categorised this trip as generally not suitable for persons of reduced mobility. However, if you are a regular traveller on such trips, please contact customer services to discuss the trip and your personal condition.
Joining Instructions
Travelling flight inclusive: 17 days
The group flight is an overnight flight departing the day before Day 1 of the itinerary.
Flights
We typically use scheduled services of major airlines such as British Airways (depending on availability). Since flight schedules may change, we recommend contacting our sales team or your travel agent to confirm up-to-date timings. Final timings will be confirmed approximately two weeks before departure.
Travelling land only: 15 days starting and ending in Johannesburg Airport
Your trip normally starts at Johannesburg International Airport on the morning of Day 1 of the itinerary, at the group arrival time. Information on how to reach the start point will be included in the Final Joining Instructions, sent approximately two weeks before departure. Land only travellers can also be collected at a nearby hotel approximately 45 minutes prior to the group flight arrival and transferred to Johannesburg International Airport.
Please ensure your return flight is not scheduled before the group flights, as the journey back to Johannesburg Airport on the final day is quite long.
Full joining instructions, including emergency contact numbers, will be provided in your Final Joining Instructions. If you do not receive these at least a week before departure or need them earlier, please contact our office or your travel agent.
Location start: Johannesburg
Location end: Johannesburg
Vaccinations and Health
South Africa
There are no compulsory vaccinations. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, rabies, and tuberculosis. A yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from, or transiting through, a country where yellow fever is present. Please consult your doctor or a travel clinic for advice.
Malaria prophylaxis is necessary for the Greater Kruger area; consult your doctor or clinic for the appropriate medication. The rest of South Africa, including the Garden Route, has a low malaria risk.
Dengue fever, spread by daytime biting mosquitoes, is also present. No vaccine exists, so standard mosquito bite precautions are recommended.
Eswatini (Swaziland)
There are no compulsory vaccinations. Recommended vaccinations include hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, cholera, hepatitis B, rabies, and tuberculosis. A yellow fever certificate is required if arriving from a yellow fever risk country. There is a malaria risk in Eswatini, so seek medical advice.
Visa
South Africa
UK, US, and most EU passport holders typically do not need a visa for South Africa. Visa rules can change, and it is your responsibility to ensure you have any necessary visas. We recommend checking with the relevant embassy or consulate for your destinations, including any countries transited en route.
Helpful links:
Australia: smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/south-africa
Canada: travel.gc.ca/destinations/south-africa
United Kingdom: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/south-africa/entry-requirements
USA: travel.state.gov
Please note: anyone requiring a visa for South Africa must have at least two consecutive blank pages in their passport.
Minors under 18 must carry an unabridged birth certificate listing both parents. If traveling with one parent, additional documents are required, such as an affidavit from the absent parent, a court order, or a death certificate.
Eswatini (Swaziland)
UK, US, and most EU passport holders do not require a visa for Eswatini. Visa regulations may change; you are responsible for confirming the latest entry requirements.
Helpful links:
Australia: smartraveller.gov.au/destinations/africa/eswatini
Canada: travel.gc.ca/destinations/eswatini
United Kingdom: gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/eswatini/entry-requirements
USA: travel.state.gov
Food & Drink
All breakfasts, 11 lunches, and seven dinners included.
Meals
Breakfast: cereal, toast, tea, coffee, occasional hot breakfast.
Lunch: cheese, cold meats, salads, bread or rolls.
Dinner: potjies (stews), braais (barbecue), stir-fries, pasta; usually cooked on open fires.
Please inform your sales representative of any dietary requirements at least two weeks in advance if not already noted on your booking form.
Tour leaders handle all shopping, planning, and cooking for the group, using fresh ingredients where possible. Two cool boxes are provided for fresh food and one for cold drinks. Included drinks: fruit squash at breakfast; tea/coffee at breakfast and dinner. All other beverages are at your own expense.
Additional meal costs:
Dinners not included: 350-500 ZAR (US$20‐US$30) per person
Lunches not included: 150-250 ZAR (US$8‐US$13)
A variety of à la carte and buffet options are available at lodges, with vegetarian and vegan options. Snacks like biltong, droëwors, nuts, and other items are widely available during pitstops.
On mornings with game drives or walks, tea/coffee and rusks are served early, followed by a full brunch after returning to camp. Afternoon snacks and evening meals are served afterward.
Water
Safe, clean drinking water (usually from boreholes) is provided. Bottled water is available at your own cost, though we encourage using the safe drinking water provided to reduce plastic waste.
Weather
Although most of South Africa lies south of the Tropic of Capricorn, altitude moderates the temperature. Average midday temperatures range around 22C (72F) on the coast and 24C (75F) inland. This trip covers various climate zones.
Inland areas are typically dry from April to October (though storms may occur), while the Drakensberg Mountains receive more rain during this period. August nights can be very cold, especially in the Drakensberg, sometimes dropping below freezing, though days are often warm and sunny. From November to February, higher temperatures and occasional rainfall occur, refreshing the landscape and clearing the skies for spectacular nights.
