Wild Kingdoms Safari & Durban
Escorted Tour
Begin by exploring the diverse and scenic eastern region of South Africa on a 7-day tour when Big game, traditional African experience and bushveld, mountains & beaches all combine to create a unique and special itinerary. Then relax with a stay at the fabulous Oyster Box Hotel overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic Umhlanga lighthouse.
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Your Itinerary
Day 1-2 : UK - Johannesburg
Begin by exploring the diverse and scenic eastern region of South Africa on a 7-day tour when Big game, traditional African experience and bushveld, mountains & beaches all combine to create a unique and special itinerary. Then relax with a stay at the fabulous Oyster Box Hotel overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic Umhlanga lighthouseOn arrival in Johannesburg, you will be met and transferred to your hotel. Johannesburg is the largest and most populous city in South Africa. It is also the source of a large-scale gold and diamond trade due to its location on the mineral-rich Witwatersrand range of hills. At 7pm meet at reception for a briefing on the tour and a chance to meet fellow travellers.
Distance travelled today - 35 km
Day 3 : Johannesburg - Mpumalanga
Depart Johannesburg after breakfast and head for Pretoria, South Africa’s capital city, for a short orientation tour, before continuing to the Mpumalanga Province, known as Paradise Country. Dropping several hundred feet into the lush subtropical region of the Lowveld, we travel via the historic towns of Dullstroom and Lydenburg. After traversing the famous Long Tom Pass, we travel via Sabie and arrive late afternoon into Hazyview, the safari hub of the Kruger National Park.
Meals included - Breakfast
Day 4 : Mpumalanga
After an early morning breakfast, we drive along the spectacular Panorama Route, offering views of amazing scenery including the 26 kilometre-long Blyde River Canyon (home to the Three Rondavels), Bourke’s Luck Potholes and historic Gods Window, a breath-taking view (weather permitting) of the edge of the escarpment taking in the Kruger National Park. We arrive back in Hazyview in the late afternoon where the remainder of the day is at leisure to relax.
Meals included - Breakfast
Day 5 : Mpumalanga
The day begins with early morning coffee or tea, followed by a thrilling open vehicle safari through the Kruger National Park with pre-packed breakfast. Kruger is one of the world’s greatest national parks, home to a stunning array of wildlife. Search for the Big Five (rhino, buffalo, lion, leopard, and elephant) as well as prolific birdlife and numerous other game species. The afternoon is at leisure at your hotel. An afternoon open vehicle game drive is available as an extension to the morning game drive (optional and for own account). Why not experience an exclusive al fresco bridge dinner, overlooking the magnificent Sabie River under a star-studded sky this evening?
Meals included - Breakfast
Day 6 : Mpumalanga - eSwatini (Swaziland)
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 and lunch introduce us to the charming people of eSwatini (Swaziland) and their traditions. We travel via the capital city, Mbabane, to the beautiful Ezulwini Valley for overnight in eSwatini (Swaziland) with a sumptuous dinner at your hotel.
Meals included - Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner
Day 7 : eSwatini (Swaziland) - Zululand
After breakfast we will continue south through eSwatini (Swaziland), before re-entering South Africa. Travel into Zululand, passing traditional round huts and endless vistas. There is an option to enjoy an afternoon open vehicle safari (optional and for own account with an English-speaking game ranger) in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi Game Reserve, which contains an immense diversity of fauna and flora and is particularly famous for its conservation of black and white rhino. Overnight in the Hluhluwe-Umfolozi region.
Meals included - Breakfast
Day 8 : Zululand - Durban
This morning you will join a 2-hour cruise on Lake St Lucia (weather permitting). Part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1999, iSimangaliso Wetland Park, offers a unique opportunity to view hippo and crocodile and a diverse birdlife before departing for Durban. Your journey takes you through Zululand, past traditional Zulu Kraals, Eucalyptus plantations and sugar cane fields. Arrive in Durban in the early afternoon for a four night stay at the Oyster Box Hotel.
Meals included - Breakfast
The Oyster Box
Overlooking the Indian Ocean and the iconic Umhlanga lighthouse is one of South Africa’s cherished hotels, The Oyster Box. The original cottage, The Oyster Lodge was built on the grounds in 1863. In 1952 the cottage and grounds were transformed into a tea garden which evolved into The Oyster Box hotel in 1954. The hotel developed a reputation for hospitality and tradition. After an extensive restoration project from 2007 – 2009 The Oyster Box reopened as part of the Red Carnation Group. Retaining its charming atmosphere, the hotel was extensively rebuilt. In all the ways that reflect and celebrate the legend of The Oyster Box, the experience of the contemporary Oyster Box is one that holds the grand hotel’s history, heritage and heart in perfect balance. Discover timeless elegance and a multitude of dining options, including the famous curry feast and High Tea. Indulge in the award-winning spa amid tropical gardens, relax in the hotel cinema or take in the ocean view from the pool. The Oyster Box is a member of The Leading Hotels of the World.
Day 9-11 : Durban at leisure
Durban is located in the South African province of KwaZulu Natal. Enjoying a subtropical climate, with warm weather all year round, this large coastal city is renowned for her stunning beaches and superb swimming conditions. Durban had a major makeover for the 2010 Soccer World Cup and a favourite addition is the revamped waterfront and its promenade which grants access to a long stretch of Durbans top beaches, known as the "Golden Mile". For the activity adventure seekers, Durban’s Moses Mabhida Stadium has Segway tours, the sky car and even bungee swinging. A trip to Durban would be incomplete without visiting uShaka Marine World, a world class waterpark and aquarium with a wide variety of marine life.
Meals included - Breakfast
Day 12-13 : Durban - UK
Enjoy breakfast in your hotel this morning before being transferred to the airport in time for your homeward flight.