Sustainable Journey - South Africa with purpose (Self-Drive): Johannesburg – Panorama Route – Timbavati – eSwatini – Kosi Bay – iSimangaliso Wetland – Drakensberg – Johannesburg

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South Africa

Nothing in the world quite matches the true glory of South Africa. Considered one of the most geographically varied countries on the African continent, it consists of dry savanna plains, wet marshlands, mountainous terrains and pristine, sandy beaches. Known as the Rainbow Nation, South Africa boasts 11 official languages and a diverse range of inhabitants. Travellers to South Africa will have their pick of attractions, from the Wild Coast's unspoiled beaches and the vibrant nightlife of Cape Town to the Kgalagadi Desert and the thick forest of Tsitsikamma. This country is home to the most upbeat, humorous and most hospitable people you will get the chance to meet. It offers world-class hospitality and incredible holiday experiences for tourists from around the world. Despite a past of struggle and separation, the country's future is filled with possibility and unity. South Africa is said by many to be the most beautiful country in the world and a must-see traveller's dream. 

Panorama Route

Days 1 - 2

South Africa's scenic Panorama Route connects several cultural and natural attractions. It runs through the Mpumalanga province, surrounding the third largest canyon in the world, the Blyde River Canyon. Its popularity is primarily due to its proximity to the Kruger National Park. There are many attractions among the natural highlights – like the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre, the many farmstalls, art galleries and cultural village experiences, along with many guided or self-guided hiking routes. The most prominent attraction is 'God's Window', offering stunning views down to the expansive lowveld.

Panorama Route

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Panorama Route

Timbavati Private Nature Reserve

Days 2 - 4

The Timbavati Private Game Reserve lies in the western region of the Kruger National Park, north of Sabi Sands Private Game Reserve. The borders between these reserves are unfenced, allowing greater freedom of access to wildlife. Timbavati is most famous for its white lions. In ancient Sangaan, the word Timbavati means "the place where something sacred came down from heaven", referring to these genetically rare animals that are not albino but rather classified as a subspecies of lion. Known as a world-renowned honeymoon destination, the reserve uniquely offers luxury in a way unlike anywhere else. 

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Hazyview

Days 4 - 6

Hazyview is a subtropical farming settlement in Mpumalanga, South Africa, renowned for its significant banana and macadamia nut production industry. Located on the Kruger National Park border, the town's name derives from a shimmering haze that occurs during the hot summers. Known as Mpumalanga's "Adventure Hub", the town offers many adventurous activities, ranging from Hot Air Balloon tours to elephant rides. It is also home to many delightful restaurants and pubs offering excellent food and wine. Here, spectacular panoramas will undoubtedly remain in your memory, as there is so much to see and experience. 

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Hazyview

eSwatini

eSwatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a tiny landlocked nation boasting rich historical and cultural heritage. It is also Africa's last remaining independent monarchy. In addition to its tall mountains and low-lying savannah, it also homes tangled rainforests and lush river valleys. The region boasts many noteworthy attractions, including the mesmerizing Valley of Heaven and the Hlane Royal National Park, noted for its rhinos, antelopes and lions. Wildlife watching, river rafting, mountain biking, and hiking are excellent activities visitors can enjoy on the scenic trails that traverse the mountainous terrain. 

eSwatini

Days 6 - 8

eSwatini, formerly known as Swaziland, is a tiny landlocked nation boasting rich historical and cultural heritage. It is also Africa's last remaining independent monarchy. In addition to its tall mountains and low-lying savannah, it also homes tangled rainforests and lush river valleys. The region boasts many noteworthy attractions, including the mesmerizing Valley of Heaven and the Hlane Royal National Park, noted for its rhinos, antelopes and lions. Wildlife watching, river rafting, mountain biking, and hiking are excellent activities visitors can enjoy on the scenic trails that traverse the mountainous terrain. 

eSwatini

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eSwatini

South Africa

Nothing in the world quite matches the true glory of South Africa. Considered one of the most geographically varied countries on the African continent, it consists of dry savanna plains, wet marshlands, mountainous terrains and pristine, sandy beaches. Known as the Rainbow Nation, South Africa boasts 11 official languages and a diverse range of inhabitants. Travellers to South Africa will have their pick of attractions, from the Wild Coast's unspoiled beaches and the vibrant nightlife of Cape Town to the Kgalagadi Desert and the thick forest of Tsitsikamma. This country is home to the most upbeat, humorous and most hospitable people you will get the chance to meet. It offers world-class hospitality and incredible holiday experiences for tourists from around the world. Despite a past of struggle and separation, the country's future is filled with possibility and unity. South Africa is said by many to be the most beautiful country in the world and a must-see traveller's dream. 

Kosi Bay

Days 8 - 10

In the northern reaches of KwaZulu Natal, Kosi Bay is a rich network of lakes that make up the final stretch of the South African coastline - a wilderness wonderland that is still largely unexplored. The Kosi Bay Nature Reserve protects much of the area homes various animals such as hippos and crocodiles and a great diversity of marine life. Among activities available in the area are bird watching and game viewing, including close encounters with animals such as elephants and giraffes. Boat excursions allow snorkelling along mangrove banks as you meander through reed channels. A true paradise for all who visit. 

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Kosi Bay

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Days 10 - 12

The iSimangaliso Wetland Park on the east coast of KwaZulu-Natal is an incredibly beautiful series of beaches, coral reefs, lakes, swamps, and wetlands. The wealth of wildlife ranges from whales, dolphins, sea turtles, antelope and crocodiles to storks, pelicans, and the magnificent fish eagle. The park has one of the most diverse varieties of frogs, and their choruses are often heard at night or on rainy days. The park is one of South Africa's top tourist attractions. Aside from the numerous hiking trails, fishing and deep-sea diving - horse riding, game viewing, and whale watching are enjoyed in the park. 

iSimangaliso Wetland Park

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iSimangaliso Wetland Park

Babanango Game Reserve

Days 12 - 14

Babanango Game Reserve is a malaria-free reserve that lies at the mouth of the White Umfolozi River in Zululand, encompassing the picturesque Babanango Valley. The region is known for its pristine coastline, rolling hills, waving grasslands and lush forests. Babanango Game Reserve is a bush lover’s paradise. Game species such as buffalo, giraffe, hyenas, and zebras are abundant in the area. A range of outdoor activities is available in the Reserve, including game drives, birdwatching, hiking and mountain biking. Babanango is a world of fascinating contrasts combining cultural riches and natural beauty. 

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Babanango Game Reserve

Northern Drakensberg

Days 14 - 16

As the tallest mountain range in Southern Africa, the Northern Drakensberg provides access to the Royal Natal National Park. In the winter months, the peaks of the Northern Drakensberg are often covered with snow, creating many scenic vistas. The region is most notable for its Amphitheatre, a 500-meter-high rock face that extends for 5 kilometres. The area is a popular hiking and rock climbing destination. Some of the more challenging hiking trails stop at mountain caves for overnight accommodation. The dams and rivers in the lower slopes offer trout fishing, a popular activity among the locals.

Northern Drakensberg

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Northern Drakensberg
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