Pretoria - Hazyview. Departing South Africa's administrative capital of Pretoria aboard our overland truck, we head through the scenic Mpumalanga region to reach Kruger National Park. Fences in the area were removed several years ago to create the Greater Kruger ecosystem, one of Africa's best wild places. We'll enjoy Shangaan tribal dancing around the campfire tonight before we head into the park tomorrow.
Please note: Please arrive in Pretoria at least one night before your tour. There will be a pre-departure meeting at 18:00 on the evening prior to departure and the tour departs at 7am on day 1. Refer to the Joining Instructions for more information. We can book an airport transfer from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport and Pretoria pre-tour accommodation upon request.
Today we'll head into Kruger National Park on safari, making use of specialized 4X4 vehicles and a resident local guide. Kruger is home to all of the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo) and is an African stronghold for the white rhino and the critically endangered black rhino. Our game drive lasts all day, with a break for lunch.
Returning to our campsite, you will have the option to head back out into the park at night, when creatures such as leopards become more active.
Kruger National Park - Tshipise. Leaving the Greater Kruger area aboard our overland truck, we head north through the South African countryside to Tshipise, in the Limpopo province.
Tonight's campsite is in a picturesque resort next to a nature reserve, surrounded by thick woodland. There is free time to relax by the pool or in a nearby hot spring, and you may want to go and have a look at one of the biggest baobab trees in South Africa.
Tshipise - Matobo (Zimbabwe). We say farewell to South Africa today, crossing the border into Zimbabwe.We'll stop for supplies in Bulawayo before arriving at our campsite.
Matobo National Park remarkable reserve has the largest concentration of Black and White Rhino in Africa and it also has the densest population of leopard and black eagle in the world. Knowledgeable guides will take us on a nature drive and wilderness walk this morning, leading us on foot to some of the more concealed places in search of these incredible animals.
After the tour drive back to camp for an afternoon at leisure. Alternatively, there's the option to upgrade to a full day tour (optional - pay locally). On the full day tour explore the wind-sculptured Matobo Hills, see the Bushman paintings and visit the grave of Cecil John Rhodes.
Matobo - Victoria Falls - Livingstone (Zambia). Leaving Matobo, we drive via the town of Victoria Falls before crossing the border into Zambia and arriving in Livingstone.
Named after the explorer David Livingstone, this is our base for visiting the Zambian side of Victoria Falls, the world's largest sheet of falling water and one of the Seven Natural Wonders of the World. Known locally as 'Mosi Oa Tunya', the 'Smoke that Thunders', we will enjoy an included visit to see the falls.
You will also have time to enjoy optional activities such as rafting, caning, abseiling or scenic flights over the cascade. See the Trip Notes for more details.
Our tour ends after breakfast today. However, there are so many activities available in Livingstone that we recommend booking a day or two post-tour accommodation in order to further explore. We can arrange this for you on request.
