From Johannesburg: 12-Day Safari to Cape Town through Durban

Soweto, Durban



Embark on a 12-day journey from Johannesburg to Cape Town, traveling through South Africa’s diverse landscapes and vibrant coastal towns. Explore game reserves, nature reserves, beaches and more

South Africa 12-Day Wildlife, Nature, and Cultural Tour from Johannesburg to Cape Town

This 12-day guided tour covers South Africa’s wildlife, landscapes, and cultural landmarks, ideal for nature lovers and cultural explorers.

Highlights

  • Hiking in Drakensberg Mountains and Robberg Nature Reserve
  • Full-day Big 5 safari in Kruger National Park and Addo National Park
  • Visit to Nelson Mandela House in Soweto, Johannesburg
  • Explore Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, Three Rondavels, and Bourke's Luck Potholes
  • Boat cruise in St Lucia Estuary to view hippos and crocodiles

Itinerary Overview

Day 1: Visit Nelson Mandela House in Soweto, Johannesburg, then travel to Kruger National Park.

Day 2: Full-day safari in Kruger National Park to see the Big 5 (elephants, lions, rhinos, leopards, buffalo) and other wildlife.

Day 3: Tour Blyde River Canyon including Three Rondavels, God’s Window, and Bourke's Luck Potholes.

Day 4: Travel to iSimangaliso Wetlands Park, passing local villages in Mpumalanga.

Day 5: Hippo and crocodile boat cruise in St Lucia Estuary. Travel to Durban for city tour including the Golden Mile, beachfront, cultural sites, and Victoria Market.

Day 6: Travel to Drakensberg Mountains for hiking.

Day 7: Proceed to Mthatha and tour the Mandela Museum.

Day 8: Travel to East London and enjoy its pristine beaches.

Day 9: Proceed to Port Elizabeth for game safari at Addo National Park.

Day 10: Travel to Bloukrans Bridge (world’s highest bungee jump, 216m, optional at own cost), hike Robberg Nature Reserve, relax at Plettenberg Beach, then proceed to Knysna. Visit Knysna Heads and Knysna Waterfront.

Day 11: Proceed to Cape Agulhas, Africa’s southernmost point, then to Hermanus, noted for whale watching in season.

Day 12: Wine tasting at Benguela Cove Wine Estate, visit Betty’s Bay to see African penguins, and arrive in Cape Town to conclude the tour.

This tour includes 11 nights of accommodation with breakfast at hotels and lodges.

What is Included

  • 11 nights accommodation with breakfast
  • Full-day safari in Kruger National Park
  • Tours of Blyde River Canyon, God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes, and Three Rondavels
  • Hippo and crocodile boat cruise at iSimangaliso Wetlands Park
  • Durban city tour including beachfront and Victoria Market
  • Hiking in Drakensberg Mountains and Robberg Nature Reserve
  • Mandela Museum tour in Mthatha
  • Game safari at Addo National Park
  • Wine tasting at Benguela Cove Wine Estate
  • Tour of Betty’s Bay to see African penguins

Exclusions

  • Bungee jumping at Bloukrans Bridge (optional, own cost)

Booking and Practical Information

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. For comfort, bring sturdy hiking shoes, sun protection, and binoculars for wildlife viewing. The best time to visit for wildlife safaris and whale watching is from May to September. Book early to secure accommodation and guided tours during peak season.

Frequently Asked Questions

The tour includes hiking in the Drakensberg Mountains, full-day safaris in Kruger and Addo National Parks, visits to cultural sites like Nelson Mandela House in Soweto, and sightseeing at locations such as Blyde River Canyon and St Lucia Estuary near Durban.
The tour starts in Johannesburg and ends in Cape Town, passing through Durban and other key South African destinations.
Yes, the safari includes full-day game drives in Kruger National Park and Addo National Park where you can see the Big 5 animals.
Hiking is included in the Drakensberg Mountains and at Robberg Nature Reserve along the route.
Yes, the tour features cultural experiences such as visiting Nelson Mandela House in Soweto and exploring villages near Durban.
The tour includes a boat cruise on the St Lucia Estuary to view hippos and other wildlife; check the website for precise duration details.
The best time for wildlife viewing is during South Africa's dry season, typically from May to September, but check local conditions near Durban and other stops.
The tour generally includes accommodations and some meals; verify specific inclusions for Durban and other locations on the booking website.
Most tours accommodate dietary restrictions if informed in advance; contact the provider with your requirements before booking.
Yes, transportation between all destinations including Durban is provided during the 12-day guided safari.

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