14 Day Eastern Circle

Prepare for an exhilarating Day 2 of your 14 Day Eastern Circle! The day begins with a hearty breakfast at the resort, ensuring you’re energized for a day filled with adventure.

We start the morning with a scenic boat cruise on Swadini Dam, situated at the end of the majestic Blyde River Canyon. This tranquil cruise offers breathtaking views and a chance to relax amidst nature’s splendor. Keep your eyes peeled for sightings of crocodiles and hippos in Swadini Dam, adding an exciting wildlife element to your cruise.

Next, we’ll visit the Hoedspruit Reptile Centre for an educational and interactive experience. Get up close to a variety of reptiles and learn about their fascinating behaviours and importance in the ecosystem. It’s a fantastic opportunity for both children and adults to expand their knowledge of wildlife.

After a morning of exploration, we’ll break for lunch at a local restaurant, where you can indulge in a variety of culinary delights (at your own expense). This leisurely lunch break allows you to unwind and savour the flavours of the region, soaking in the vibrant atmosphere of Hoedspruit.

Continuing our adventure, we’ll head to the Moholoholo Wildlife Rehabilitation Centre. Here, you’ll have the unique opportunity to interact with orphaned and recovering wildlife, gaining insight into the rehabilitation process and the conservation efforts in the area. It’s a touching experience that highlights the importance of wildlife conservation.

As the day transitions into evening, we’ll settle into the lodge located in the Hoedspruit Wildlife Estate. The lodge offers comfortable accommodations nestled in natural surroundings, providing a serene setting for a restful night after a day filled with exploration and wildlife encounters. Your group will have two rooms, one with a double bed and one with two single beds, both with ensuite bathrooms. The exact lodge will be confirmed closer to the booking date.

Day 2 promises a perfect blend of adventure, education, and relaxation, setting the stage for more remarkable experiences in the days to come.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Prepare for an unforgettable Day 3 of your 14 Day Eastern Circle! Start the day with a leisurely breakfast at the lodge, preparing for an exciting day ahead in Kruger National Park.

After breakfast, embark on a thrilling adventure in an open safari vehicle, ready to explore the magnificent Kruger National Park. A short 1-hour drive takes us to the gates of Kruger National Park, South Africa’s premier National Park. We enter through Orpen Gate and begin our slow drive towards Satara Camp, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the African wilderness.

As we journey through the grasslands, keep your eyes peeled for the incredible wildlife that calls this iconic reserve home. The drive is full of wonders, with opportunities to spot the Big Five and a variety of other fascinating wildlife species. Our experienced guides will share their knowledge of the area, enhancing your safari experience.

Arriving at Satara Rest Camp just before sunset, guests can relax in cozy rondawels, featuring two single beds, air conditioning, and en-suite bathrooms. The camp provides a comfortable and authentic safari experience, allowing you to connect with nature while enjoying modern amenities.

To conclude this eventful day, dinner is served by the rondawels, creating a cozy and intimate setting. Our chef ensures a culinary experience that reflects the flavours of South Africa, allowing you to savour the day’s adventures while sharing the joy of the safari with your companions.

Day 3 encapsulates the essence of a Kruger safari—immersive wildlife experiences, relaxation in comfortable surroundings, and the joy of shared moments amidst the beauty of the African wilderness.

Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Get ready for an exciting Day 4 of your 14 Day Eastern Circle! This day promises exhilarating wildlife experiences that will leave you in awe.

Rise with the sun for a captivating morning safari, where we’ll focus on seeking out predators amidst the dynamic landscapes of Kruger National Park. The golden hues of sunrise set the stage for a memorable day of discovery.

After the morning safari, indulge in a delightful breakfast at a carefully chosen picnic spot, surrounded by the sounds of the bush. This serene interlude offers a moment to absorb the natural beauty of Kruger before returning to Satara Rest Camp for a period of rest and relaxation. The camp provides a tranquil setting, allowing guests to unwind amidst the sights and sounds of the wilderness.

A sumptuous lunch at the camp rejuvenates the senses, providing nourishment for the adventures that lie ahead. As the day progresses, embark on an afternoon safari drive, traversing the park’s diverse ecosystems. Our expert guides lead the way, enhancing your chances of encountering a variety of wildlife in their natural habitat.

As the sun begins its descent, return to camp to witness the magical hues of the African sunset. The evening unfolds with dinner at the camp’s restaurant, savouring delicious cuisine in a warm and welcoming atmosphere.

But the adventure doesn’t end there! The night sky beckons, and you’re invited to partake in a unique nocturnal experience—a night drive to discover Kruger’s elusive nocturnal animals. Led by experienced guides, this after-dark safari adds a touch of enchantment to your exploration of the park, allowing you to witness the wonders of the night.

Day 4 encapsulates the diverse offerings of Kruger National Park, from sunrise safaris to tranquil moments at the camp and the magic of nocturnal discoveries. It’s a day designed to create lasting memories and deepen your connection with the incredible wilderness that surrounds you.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Day 5 of our 14 Day Eastern Circle is designed for everyone to enjoy! Start the day with an early meet-up for coffee and hot chocolate, gearing up for a morning exploration of the open grasslands in Satara—a perfect spot to spot the majestic Cheetah. Our mission? To find one of these magnificent cats, so we’ll be on the lookout as we explore the landscape.

After the exciting morning drive, we head back to camp for a hearty breakfast, getting ready for the next part of our journey. The road to Skukuza, our next destination, is 90 kilometres long and offers plenty of chances to spot lions along the way. We’ll make stops at two iconic water points known for attracting a diverse array of animal species, setting the stage for some amazing wildlife encounters.

Arriving at Skukuza around 1 pm, we’ll drop you off by the picturesque Sabie River, where you can enjoy an own-expense lunch at the camp restaurant.

Skukuza, the largest camp in Kruger and the park’s administrative capital, is a haven nestled along the banks of the famous Sabie River, surrounded by captivating riverine forest trees. Your accommodation for the night is the traditional African Rondawels, featuring twin beds, a private washroom with a shower and toilet, a ceiling fan, a fridge, air conditioning, and a small patio.

After lunch, take some time to relax and explore the camp’s abundant facilities. Whether you fancy a refreshing swim in the pool, a visit to the Park Shop for unique souvenirs, or a leisurely stroll along the picturesque walkway by the Sabie River, the options are endless.

As the afternoon unfolds, we embark on another game drive in the Skukuza area, renowned for its lion sightings. With lion territories in the region, our goal is to locate the impressive pride of 20 members.

To cap off the day, enjoy a memorable dinner under the stars, served in our makeshift bush restaurant, creating an enchanting ambiance as you savour the flavours of the African wilderness.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Today promises to be an exciting and educational adventure for everyone. We’ll start the day with a more relaxed approach, allowing you to enjoy a bit of extra sleep before embarking on a short morning safari. As we make our way to the western gate of Kruger, Phabeni Gate, keep your eyes peeled for sightings of elephants, buffaloes, and white rhinos, making this drive both leisurely and rewarding.

Exiting the park, we’ll travel a short distance to Hazyview, a charming town near Kruger National Park, where you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy two exciting and interactive activities that are not only fun but also educational.

At the Elephant Sanctuary, you’ll have the chance to get up close and personal with orphaned elephants who have accepted humans into their daily lives. These sanctuaries play a crucial role in elephant conservation, serving as research centres to study elephant behaviour and ensure the species’ survival for future generations. Activities at the sanctuary include feeding, washing, walking, and even touching these gentle giants.

After an exciting morning of exploration, we’ll enjoy an own-expense lunch in town before learning about the rich culture of the Shangaan Tribe at the Shangaan Cultural Village. Here, you’ll experience their unique traditions and way of life, offering insight into a culture deeply connected to the land and its wildlife.

We will then drive the short distance to the Greenfire Hazyview Lodge nestled in the forests of the Sabie River valley. The Lodge has multiple rooms but will be reserved for your exclusive use. This afternoon you can enjoy some time by the swimming pool, choose to relax at the lodge, or go for a walk along the Sabie River.

Tonight, dinner will be served at the lodge.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

This morning, we will indulge in an early breakfast at the lodge before heading to our next amazing destination. We’ll journey through Zululand to Hluhluwe, a magnificent park nestled in the mountains of Zululand. The area boasts sub-tropical surroundings with lush, green vegetation. Hluhluwe is renowned for being home to the Big 5 (lion, leopard, buffalo, rhino, and elephant), as well as some rarer animals we may not have seen yet, such as Nyala and Wild Dog. The wildlife in the park is accustomed to safari vehicles, allowing for up-close encounters and amazing photo opportunities.

After a 450 km drive, we’ll arrive at the park in the afternoon, with a lunch stop en route. Our camp, situated high on top of the hill, overlooks the park, offering breathtaking views. Spend the rest of the day relaxing and enjoying the scenery. This evening, dinner will be served at the lodge restaurant. Tonight, you will be staying in a cottage high on top of the hill.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Lunch

Prepare for another thrilling safari experience as we explore the Hluhluwe River valley in Imfolozi National Park. Keep your eyes peeled for the majestic white rhinos that roam these plains, offering you the chance for up-close encounters with these magnificent creatures.

After our morning safari, we’ll return to camp to pack up and transfer to our next destination, Mpila. The journey will take approximately 2 hours, winding through the mountains. Along the way, we’ll make stops at the best viewpoints, allowing you to soak in the breathtaking scenery. A picnic lunch will be enjoyed amidst the beauty of the landscape, providing a moment of tranquillity in the midst of our adventure.

This marks the last day in a Big 5 reserve, so we’ll make the most of it with one final game drive in the afternoon. It’s a chance to soak in the sights and sounds of Africa’s wildlife one more time before we continue our journey.

In the evening, we’ll gather for a traditional African barbecue, savouring the flavours of the bush under the starlit sky. As you drift off to sleep, the sounds of the wilderness will surround you, creating a truly immersive African experience.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

Today marks our transition from the wildlife-rich landscapes of Imfolozi National Park to the coastal beauty of Durban. As we depart from Imfolozi National Park, we’ll journey through Zululand, traversing the very lands where King Shaka Zulu once ruled the Zulu kingdom. This historical region offers a glimpse into the rich heritage of the Zulu people and their legendary leader.

Continuing towards the coast, we’ll make a stop for an own-expense lunch, allowing you to savour the local flavours of the region.

Upon arrival in Durban, we’ll check into our beach cottage, situated just a few meters away from the sandy shores. The hotel/beach cottage offers easy access to the beach, which is safe for swimming and watched over by lifeguards. A tidal pool provides a protected area for swimming, ideal for enjoying the Indian Ocean’s warm waters. With temperatures ranging from around 20°C in winter to 24°C in summer, the Indian Ocean offers a delightful swimming experience year-round.

This afternoon, you can relax and unwind on the beach, soaking up the sun and enjoying the coastal breeze. If weather permits, we can also arrange a visit to The Gateway, the largest shopping mall in the southern hemisphere, offering a variety of shopping and entertainment options.

In the evening, we’ll venture out for dinner at a restaurant of your choice. Your guide will suggest the best spot to enjoy a delicious meal, ensuring a perfect end to a day of exploration and relaxation.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today starts with a leisurely morning to relax and recharge in Durban, followed by an exploration of the city. Our first destination is the Golden Mile, where you can enjoy a scenic stroll along the beachfront promenade. At the end of the Golden Mile awaits uShaka Marine World, a renowned marine theme park (admission fee applies). Here, you can explore the aquarium, attend exciting dolphin shows, watch charming penguin parades, or even try snorkelling in tropical tanks. Adjacent to uShaka is Wet ‘n Wild, offering a variety of water slides and activities for all ages.

After uShaka, we’ll take a drive-through tour of Durban, highlighting its vibrant culture and deep-rooted history. The tour culminates with a walk across the arch of Moses Mabhida Stadium (admission fee applies), boasting panoramic views of the city and the Indian Ocean. Both uShaka and the stadium arch experiences are optional and involve additional costs.

Alternatively, you can choose to spend the day relaxing at the beach near our cottage, enjoying the warm waters of the Indian Ocean.

Tonight, you have a romantic dinner for two, savouring the flavours of Durban in a picturesque setting, creating cherished memories together.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Today, we bid farewell to the vibrant city of Durban and the serene beaches of the Indian Ocean as we embark on a journey into the majestic Drakensberg Mountains. This range, the longest in Southern Africa, promises awe-inspiring vistas and unparalleled natural splendor. Our itinerary includes one night in the southern part of the range followed by two nights in the northern section, allowing us to fully immerse ourselves in the rugged charm of this iconic mountain landscape.

Our drive today spans approximately 150 kilometres, winding through the picturesque Valley of a Thousand Hills. Along the way, we’ll pause to visit the breathtaking Howick Falls, where cascading waters create a serene oasis in the valley below, offering a tranquil moment amidst our travels.

Upon reaching our destination nestled beneath the towering cliffs of the southern Drakensberg, we’ll enjoy a hearty lunch before embarking on a guided walk. This leisurely stroll will lead us along the river and through mountain forests, providing opportunities to spot local wildlife such as birds, small mammals, and perhaps even the elusive mountain reedbuck.

As night falls, we’ll gather around a crackling bonfire, sharing stories and laughter under the expansive night sky. Dinner will be a delightful outdoor affair, prepared with care and savoured amidst the mountain’s embrace, creating an unforgettable dining experience in this natural setting. Tonight, accommodations await in a charming 4-bedroom, Dutch-styled mountain lodge, offering comfort and warmth amidst the rugged beauty of the Drakensberg.

Included Meals: Lunch and Dinner

Today marks our departure from the southern Drakensberg as we continue our journey deeper into this magnificent mountain range. Our route takes us along scenic mountain roads and passes, offering breathtaking views at every turn.

The drive to our next lodge in the northern Drakensberg spans approximately 180 kilometres, ensuring plenty of time to immerse ourselves in the natural beauty surrounding us. Along the way, we’ll stop to visit a Bushman rock art gallery, providing insight into the ancient culture and artistry of the region. We’ll also pause at a local restaurant for lunch at your own expense, allowing you to savour the flavours of the area.

Upon arriving at the mountain resort in the early afternoon, we’ll settle into our accommodations and enjoy lunch. The resort offers a wide range of activities for the whole family to enjoy, including tennis, mountain biking, horse riding, bird watching, fishing, river tubing, and golf (additional fees may apply).

Whether you’re seeking adventure or relaxation, there’s something here for everyone.

The rest of the afternoon is yours to enjoy at your leisure. Relax by the pool, explore the surrounding area, or simply unwind in the comfort of your family cottage. Tonight, we’ll gather around an open fire to prepare and share dinner, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere beneath the starlit African sky.

Meals Included: Breakfast and Dinner

Today is dedicated to fully immersing ourselves in the beauty and tranquillity of the Drakensberg Mountains, making the most of our time in this breathtaking natural setting.

In the morning, we’ll set out on a leisurely hike in the area surrounding the resort. This hike is designed to be enjoyable for children, allowing the whole family to appreciate the wonders of the Drakensberg. Along the way, we’ll pause for a picnic lunch, surrounded by the awe-inspiring scenery of the mountains. A refreshing swim in a cool mountain stream will offer the perfect opportunity to relax and cool off in the pristine waters.

Upon our return to the resort, you’ll have the option to unwind or participate in various activities. You can opt for a guided horse ride along scenic trails, led by experienced instructors who prioritize safety and enjoyment. Alternatively, you might try your hand at trout fishing, embark on another hike through the mountains, or tee off for a round of golf against the stunning mountain backdrop (additional fees may apply).

Tonight, we’ll gather for our final dinner, preparing and sharing a meal together while swapping stories and laughter under the expansive African sky. After dinner, we’ll indulge in some stargazing, guided by our knowledgeable hosts who will illuminate the southern hemisphere stars, adding a touch of enchantment to our evening.

Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

As our 14-day Eastern Circle draws to a close, we bid farewell to the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and begin our journey back to Johannesburg, where our adventure began. This final day offers a variety of options to ensure your holiday concludes on a high note.

The drive back to Johannesburg spans approximately 5 hours, covering a distance of about 400 kilometres. Along the way, we’ll stop for lunch at your own expense, allowing you to enjoy one last taste of South Africa’s culinary delights.

For those considering an extension, we recommend flying from Johannesburg to Cape Town for four days of leisurely exploration in this vibrant city. On Day 14, we can arrange transport to the airport for your flight, or you may choose to spend an additional night in Johannesburg before heading to Cape Town. Alternatively, for those with more time to spare, an extended 8-day tour is available, concluding in Cape Town. This extended journey includes the Eastern Cape reserves, the Garden Route, and exploration of the southern tip of Africa, providing a comprehensive experience of South Africa’s diverse landscapes and attractions. Feel free to inquire if you’re interested in this option.

As our time together draws to a close, we hope the memories created during our safari will be cherished for a lifetime. We sincerely thank you for choosing Wild Planet Safari for your adventure and wish you safe travels on the remainder of your journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast