An early departure from Johannesburg as we travel east towards the Mpumalanga Province and visit the many attractions along the “Panorama Route”, including God’s Window, the Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the viewpoint over the Blyde River Canyon at the Three Rondavels. In the afternoon we descend the eastern escarpment and travel through the warm “lowveld” to a beautiful country lodge, just a short distance from the Kruger National Park.

We depart before dawn and travel the short distance to the nearest entrance gate to the Kruger National Park. Once inside the Park, excitement will mount as we start seeing some of the numerous animals that inhabit this magnificent wildlife sanctuary. Breakfast packs will be provided by the lodge, which we will enjoy at a picnic spot inside the Kruger Park. We spend virtually the entire day travelling inside the Kruger Park, only leaving the Park in the late afternoon and returning to our lodge for a well deserved break before dinner. A final highlight today is a specially prepared dinner enjoyed under the stars around the campfire. (weather permitting)

Yet another early start is required as we embark on an exhilarating “Big 5” (Lion, Leopard, Elephant, Rhino and Buffalo), game drive in specially adapted open 4X4 vehicles, searching for the elusive inhabitants of the African bush. The thrill of viewing these magnificent animals (and many others) from up close will stay with you for many years to come. We return to Hongonyi for a late breakfast, some free time to relax, and lunch, before travelling to the nearby Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre for a visit and a guided tour. The centre is actively involved in the breeding of highly endangered and vulnerable species such as Cheetah and Wild Dog, with the aim to eventually releasing these beautiful and rare animals back into the wild where they belong. In the late afternoon we return to to Hongonyi for a short break before once again being treated to a typically scrumptious South African dinner.

An early wake-up call as we join a guided bush walk, led by an armed ranger, who will identify spoor and droppings and share with you some of the fascinating secrets of the bush. If you are lucky you may come across big game on foot - a truly exhilarating experience. We return to the lodge for a late breakfast before travelling back to Johannesburg for a late afternoon drop-off at the hotel or guest house of your choice, or the Johannesburg International Airport.