Overview
Experience South Africa’s Big Five on this thrilling expedition into the Greater Kruger Area. Fly from Johannesburg for exclusive safari drives, including a conservation talk with the Endangered Wildlife Trust. Indulge at unique accommodation, offering unparalleled views and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities.
Trip Length
6 Days
Trip Starts
Johannesburg
Trip Ends
Johannesburg
Departures
Jan 2027 to Dec 2027
Countries Visited:
Trip Style
National Geographic Signature
Accommodation
4.5 - 5 Star
Budget
Premium
Age Range
6-99 Years
Max. Group Size
22
Pace
Leisurely
Guide Style
Fully Guided
Tour Code
DSJJNS
Itinerary
Welcome to South Africa. Your expedition begins at the airport where you will be met and transferred to your comfortable hotel in Johannesburg. In the evening, gather with your National Geographic Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, followed by a welcome dinner. Get to know one another an prepare for the experience ahead.
Accommodation:
The Leonardo Hotel
Included Meals:
Dinner
Included Experiences
- Arrival Transfer: You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
- Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group: Your opportunity to meet your Expedition Leader and fellow travellers, and learn more about your tour. Don't forget to see the notice in the lobby (or ask reception) for the official time and place to meet up with the group. There will be an included group welcome dinner after the meeting.
Visit the Nelson Mandela Foundation for a tour of Madiba’s post-presidential office, a quiet space filled with the history of his legacy. In South Africa, Madiba is an affectionate and respectful name for Mandela, originating from his Xhosa clan name, and symbolizing deep admiration of his legacy. Later, fly to the Greater Kruger area and settle in at your safari lodge. This afternoon, meet a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) and learn about their vital work protecting cheetahs and wild dogs, and supporting local communities. Afterward, head off on your first safari drive in the private reserve with the researcher, scanning the bush for Africa's famed ‘big five’ as the sun begins to lower.
Accommodation:
Thornybush Game Lodge
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Private Tour & Talk at the Nelson Mandela Foundation: The Nelson Mandela Foundation is a non-profit organisation focused on memory, dialogue and legacy work, founded by Nelson Mandela in 1999. The Nelson Mandela Foundation’s research and archive aims to generate an integrated and dynamic resource on the life and times of Nelson Mandela. Enjoy a private, guided tour of the foundation and gain a deeper understanding of the ripple effects spanning from Mandela's life and legacy.
- Plane: Sit back and enjoy the views from above on a short flight between Johannesburg and Hoedspruit.
- National Geographic Expert Presentation by Derek Van Der Merwe: Enjoy a National Geographic Expert-led talk given by Derek Van Der Merwe, part of the Endangered Wildlife Trust's (EWT) Carnivore Conservation Program. He will give a short presentation on The Big Cat Project and conservation work that has surpassed 50 years and is still going.
- Afternoon Safari Drive With Conservationist: Embark on an afternoon safari drive with an Endangered Wildlife Trust (EWT) conservationist. Search for all different kinds of wildlife in the area and learn more about their daily habits and environment.
- Free Time: Take advantage of free time this afternoon to get settled and enjoy amenities at the lodge.
Rise early for a wildlife safari drive, spotting lions, elephants, and other famous species in the soft, golden light of dawn—the prime time for viewing. Return to the lodge for a hot breakfast and leisure time to relax on the deck, listening to the sounds of the bush. This afternoon, during high tea, join a talk to gain deeper insight into local conservation efforts and the area's intricate ecosystems. After an afternoon safari tracking wildlife through the reserve, return to the lodge to refresh before gathering for dinner, sharing stories from an unforgettable day in the bush.
Accommodation:
Thornybush Game Lodge
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Early Morning Safari Drive in Private Wildlife Reserve: Rise early this morning for a safari drive in Thornybush's private reserve. This is one of the oldest lodges in the safari industry and one of the first commercial camps in South Africa. The nature reserve is now a world renowned wildlife-viewing destination in the Greater Kruger Park area. Keep your eyes peeled as the day sheds its golden light across the landscape and your guide points out must-see sites along the way.
- Free Time: Enjoy free time back at the lodge after your morning safari drive. Relax onsite and take advantage of the property's amenities. There will be the option to join a guided walking safari with an expert tracker should you choose. The group will reconvene in the afternoon for high tea and an expert-led discussion.
- Afternoon Safari Drive in Private Wildlife Reserve: Spend three hours out on a safari drive in the lodge's private wildlife reserve. Be on the lookout for the famed "Big Five" and simply enjoy the beauty of your surroundings.
Begin with a morning safari drive in the reserve, returning for breakfast before checking out. Travel to Hazyview for a stop at the Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre, an immersive experience of traditional dress, rhythmic dance, and local cuisine. Continue to your lodge, a restored train permanently suspended on a historic bridge over the Sabie River—a vantage point like no other. Check in and refresh before high tea and a talk on local wildlife. Afterward, embark on a safari drive in Kruger National Park—South Africa's largest wildlife sanctuary—returning to the lodge for dinner above the river.
Accommodation:
Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Early Morning Safari Drive in Private Wildlife Reserve: Rise early this morning for a safari drive in Thornybush's private reserve. This is one of the oldest lodges in the safari industry and one of the first commercial camps in South Africa. The nature reserve is now a world renowned wildlife-viewing destination in the Greater Kruger Park area. Keep your eyes peeled as the day sheds its golden light across the landscape and your guide points out must-see sites along the way.
- Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre Visit: Enjoy a visit to the Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre in Hazyview. The centre offers a unique experience into traditional African dance. This form of self expression is not only a statement of art, but of grace and culture. Learn more about the traditions and customs of the Swati people and get lost in the storytelling of these ancient songs.
- Afternoon Wildlife Safari Drive Kruger National Park: Head out into the stunning beauty of Kruger National Park on an afternoon safari drive and try your hand at spotting the legendary "Big Five."
Explore Experiences
Kruger National Park
Spend the day on morning and afternoon safari drives, scanning the bush for lions, elephants, leopards, and other iconic wildlife moving through the vast Kruger landscape. Return to the lodge for meals and free time to relax, perhaps watching hippo or buffalo in the river below from the train bridge. During high tea, join a talk on conservation and local ecosystems. After your afternoon drive, gather for a dedicated bush dining experience, sharing stories of your African adventure under a canopy of stars—a fitting conclusion to your time in the wilderness.
Accommodation:
Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge
Included Meals:
Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Included Experiences
- Morning Safari Drive in Kruger National Park: Set off on an early morning safari drive in the southern section of Kruger National Park. Catch a glimpse of predators on the move and grazing wildlife along the Sabie River. Pass through the varied landscapes east and west of Skukuza, including a riverine forest, mixed woodland, and open grassland.
- Free Time: Enjoy free time back at the lodge after your morning safari drive. Relax onsite and take advantage of the property's amenities. The group will reconvene in the afternoon for high tea and an expert-led discussion before an afternoon safari drive.
- Afternoon Safari Drive in Kruger National Park: Enjoy an afternoon safari drive back into the southern section of Kruger National Park. Search for wildlife, listen as your Endangered Wildlife Trust Conservationist regales you with knowledge of the landscape and animal kingdom within it.
Enjoy breakfast and depart the lodge in Kruger National Park this morning for the airport. Fly to Johannesburg where our expedition to Southern Africa concludes.
Flights must depart after 7pm.
Flights must depart after 7pm.
Included Meals:
Breakfast
Included Experiences
- Plane: Sit back and enjoy the views from above on a short flight between the Kruger National Park area to Johannesburg.
Trip Inclusions
- Join a private tour and talk at the Nelson Mandela Foundation to explore the life and legacy of 'Madiba'.
- Sleep suspended over the Sabie River in a restored train carriage at Kruger Shalati.
- Enjoy safari drives through the beautiful landscapes of Kruger National Park.
- Your G for Good Moment: Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre Visit, Hazyview
- Your Welcome Moment: Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, Johannesburg
- Signature Moment: Private Tour & Talk at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, Johannesburg
- Arrival transfer
- Internal flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit
- Afternoon safari drive with an EWT conservationist in the Greater Kruger Area
- Morning and afternoon safari drives in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve
- Kruger National Park Safari Drives
- Internal flight from Kruger to Johannesburg
- Departure Transfer
- Engaging Discussions with the National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout
- Porterage at hotels and when getting on and off of vehicles
- Tips are included for all activities, meals and porterage, except for your Expedition Leader
- All transport between destinations and to/from included activities
- Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, plane, walking
- National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout
- Hotel (1 Night), Lodge (4 Nights)
- 5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners
- Accommodation, itinerary and inclusions subject to change.
- Price is for land, cruise and internal flights as specified. Flights not specified are not included.
Operator
G Adventures came from a desire to deliver authentic and responsible small group travel adventures that were equally life-changing for travellers and the communities they visit. And we’re been doing just that for almost 30 years. Our award-winning trips span seven continents and over 100 countries, giving you meaningful more experiences with people, cultures, landscapes and wildlife, as well as offering you the freedom and flexibility to explore on your own.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
On all of our tours, you get to know locals every step of the way, from the places you visit and stay to where you eat and drink. You’ll also get to experience our ‘G for Good’ social impact initiatives on-trip, including our industry-leading ‘Ripple Score’. This score measures, as a percentage, the amount of money that stays in the local community through on-trip services like accommodation, restaurants and transport.
Trip Style: National Geographic Signature
These ultra-premium journeys combine deep cultural immersion with five-star comfort and the authority of National Geographic. Created in collaboration with G Adventures, each experience offers rare access, meaningful connections with communities, and expert insight from leading specialists.
With world-class service, thoughtfully curated inclusions, and unforgettable Signature Moments throughout, these journeys are designed for travelers who seek refined luxury without losing a sense of purpose or discovery.
Dates & Pricing
USD
Wednesday
20 Jan 2027
20 Jan 27
Johannesburg
Monday
25 Jan 2027
25 Jan 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
03 Feb 2027
03 Feb 27
Johannesburg
Monday
08 Feb 2027
08 Feb 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
17 Mar 2027
17 Mar 27
Johannesburg
Monday
22 Mar 2027
22 Mar 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
21 Apr 2027
21 Apr 27
Johannesburg
Monday
26 Apr 2027
26 Apr 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
26 May 2027
26 May 27
Johannesburg
Monday
31 May 2027
31 May 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
09 Jun 2027
09 Jun 27
Johannesburg
Monday
14 Jun 2027
14 Jun 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,599
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
07 Jul 2027
07 Jul 27
Johannesburg
Monday
12 Jul 2027
12 Jul 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
18 Aug 2027
18 Aug 27
Johannesburg
Monday
23 Aug 2027
23 Aug 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
01 Sep 2027
01 Sep 27
Johannesburg
Monday
06 Sep 2027
06 Sep 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
06 Oct 2027
06 Oct 27
Johannesburg
Monday
11 Oct 2027
11 Oct 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
10 Nov 2027
10 Nov 27
Johannesburg
Monday
15 Nov 2027
15 Nov 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Wednesday
08 Dec 2027
08 Dec 27
Johannesburg
Monday
13 Dec 2027
13 Dec 27
Johannesburg
Details
Definite Departure
Our Price
US$7,999
Twin Share (Per Personpp)
Note
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
A definite departure means minimum numbers have been reached for this departure to operate. Your Global Journeys Travel Advisor will check the availability of your departure date when you Inquire. Additional savings may apply. T&C’s apply.
Note
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
Tour & cruises prices are per person. Prices shown have savings applied, are subject to availability and may be withdrawn at any time without notice. Pricing and trip details are correct at this point in time, however are subject to confirmation at the time of booking and are subject to change by G Adventures. For cruise itineraries, cabin images are sourced from the cruise-line and should be treated as indicative only. Cabin inclusions, upholsteries and room layout may differ to the image(s) shown depending on the ship selected and your sailing dates.
