
South Africa
South Africa - Hiking and Safari Adventures
South Africa - Hiking and Safari Adventures
Duration
14 days
Start/End
Johannesburg
Tour type
Group
Level
Demanding
Accommodation
Lodges, camps, guesthouse
Overview
On this hiking trip you experience South Africa's nature on foot: from the Blyde River Canyon via Kruger National Park and the Malolotja reserve in Eswatini to Hluhluwe Game Reserve and Zululand. Mountain hikes in the Drakensberg, in Royal Natal National Park and near Witsieshoek, round it off.
Experience South Africa up close on this 14-day hiking tour through breathtaking landscapes. Discover stunning nature in a truly unique way – on foot. This journey takes you through some of the country's most spectacular regions: from the majestic Drakensberg Mountains and the unspoiled Zululand to the famous Kruger National Park. Along the way, you'll explore the wild beauty of South Africa on guided hikes and experience nature more intensely than ever before. Each stage surprises with new scenic highlights – from imposing mountain ranges to expansive savannas. In Kruger National Park, you'll have the chance to observe the "Big Five" in their natural habitat and experience unforgettable wildlife encounters. Whether you hike through impressive mountain landscapes or experience the fascinating African wildlife up close – this journey offers you a unique adventure full of unforgettable moments.
Tour Code
Tour language

German, EnglishItinerary
Day 1
From Johannesburg to Mpumalanga
Graskop Mogodi Lodge (from 2027: Graskop Hotel), lunch, dinner
Easy hike (2-3 km, approx. 1 hour)
The hiking tour through South Africa begins with the drive from Johannesburg to Mpumalanga, a region brimming with scenic highlights and historical treasures. In the afternoon, the itinerary includes a visit to the former gold rush town of Pilgrims Rest, which exudes nostalgic charm. This is followed by a spectacular stop at the God's Window viewpoint, offering breathtaking views across the vast Lowveld. A short walk leads to the Mac Mac Pools, ideal for a relaxing break amidst stunning natural surroundings. In the evening, comfortable accommodation awaits in simple chalets on the clifftop – the perfect place to unwind after your first day of travel.
From Johannesburg to Mpumalanga
Day 1
Graskop Mogodi Lodge (from 2027: Graskop Hotel), lunch, dinner
Easy hike (2-3 km, approx. 1 hour)
The hiking tour through South Africa begins with the drive from Johannesburg to Mpumalanga, a region brimming with scenic highlights and historical treasures. In the afternoon, the itinerary includes a visit to the former gold rush town of Pilgrims Rest, which exudes nostalgic charm. This is followed by a spectacular stop at the God's Window viewpoint, offering breathtaking views across the vast Lowveld. A short walk leads to the Mac Mac Pools, ideal for a relaxing break amidst stunning natural surroundings. In the evening, comfortable accommodation awaits in simple chalets on the clifftop – the perfect place to unwind after your first day of travel.
Day 2
Blyde River Canyon
Graskop Mogodi Lodge (from 2027: Graskop Hotel), full board (from 2027: breakfast and lunch, dinner at your own expense)
Moderate hike (3.5 hours) on good, partly stony paths.
The first major hike begins early in the morning. From the cliff edge, the trail leads down into the impressive Blyde River Canyon – one of the largest green canyons in the world. Along the way, spectacular views of the famous Three Sisters and the Blyde River flowing below open up before the ascent back up begins. After lunch, there will be time to explore the region's forests and waterfalls. An optional excursion is available: take the Graskop Gorge Lift down into the lush Afromontane forest and experience a unique natural setting on wooden walkways (not included in the price).
Blyde River Canyon
Day 2
Graskop Mogodi Lodge (from 2027: Graskop Hotel), full board (from 2027: breakfast and lunch, dinner at your own expense)
Moderate hike (3.5 hours) on good, partly stony paths.
The first major hike begins early in the morning. From the cliff edge, the trail leads down into the impressive Blyde River Canyon – one of the largest green canyons in the world. Along the way, spectacular views of the famous Three Sisters and the Blyde River flowing below open up before the ascent back up begins. After lunch, there will be time to explore the region's forests and waterfalls. An optional excursion is available: take the Graskop Gorge Lift down into the lush Afromontane forest and experience a unique natural setting on wooden walkways (not included in the price).
Day 3
Continue to Kruger National Park
Makuwa Safari Lodge, full board
Full-day game drive in an open safari vehicle
After an early breakfast, the journey begins to one of Africa's most famous game reserves – Kruger National Park. An unforgettable day of wildlife viewing awaits. During the exciting game drive in an open safari vehicle, an experienced guide will help you interpret the signs of the wild – with a bit of luck, you might spot elephants, rhinos, or even one of the elusive leopards. At midday, we'll enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the African wilderness before leaving the park in the late afternoon. The journey continues to a private lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park, where a relaxing dinner and a well-deserved night surrounded by nature await.
Continue to Kruger National Park
Day 3
Makuwa Safari Lodge, full board
Full-day game drive in an open safari vehicle
After an early breakfast, the journey begins to one of Africa's most famous game reserves – Kruger National Park. An unforgettable day of wildlife viewing awaits. During the exciting game drive in an open safari vehicle, an experienced guide will help you interpret the signs of the wild – with a bit of luck, you might spot elephants, rhinos, or even one of the elusive leopards. At midday, we'll enjoy a picnic lunch amidst the African wilderness before leaving the park in the late afternoon. The journey continues to a private lodge in the Greater Kruger National Park, where a relaxing dinner and a well-deserved night surrounded by nature await.
Day 4
Kruger National Park
Makuwa Safari Lodge, full board
Game drive in the morning, easy bush walk in the afternoon (approx. 1 hour)
The next drive into Kruger National Park begins before sunrise – the best time to observe predators hunting or other wildlife in action. The morning game drive takes us deeper into the park, always in search of the famous "Big Five". In the afternoon, we return to the lodge, but the adventure isn't over yet. A guided bush walk offers the opportunity to experience nature up close. Together with an experienced guide, you can learn to read the tracks of wild animals and discover the small wonders of the African bush.
Kruger National Park
Day 4
Makuwa Safari Lodge, full board
Game drive in the morning, easy bush walk in the afternoon (approx. 1 hour)
The next drive into Kruger National Park begins before sunrise – the best time to observe predators hunting or other wildlife in action. The morning game drive takes us deeper into the park, always in search of the famous "Big Five". In the afternoon, we return to the lodge, but the adventure isn't over yet. A guided bush walk offers the opportunity to experience nature up close. Together with an experienced guide, you can learn to read the tracks of wild animals and discover the small wonders of the African bush.
Day 5
Swasiland
Hawane Lodge, full board
Today's itinerary includes crossing the border into eSwatini (Swaziland) – a small but culturally rich kingdom with picturesque scenery. The drive takes us through green valleys and lush orchards before we reach our next destination: a charming lodge on the edge of the Malolotja Nature Reserve. This pristine highland reserve is one of southern Africa's best-kept secrets. Upon arrival, you'll have time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and end the day with a relaxing dinner.
Swasiland
Day 5
Hawane Lodge, full board
Today's itinerary includes crossing the border into eSwatini (Swaziland) – a small but culturally rich kingdom with picturesque scenery. The drive takes us through green valleys and lush orchards before we reach our next destination: a charming lodge on the edge of the Malolotja Nature Reserve. This pristine highland reserve is one of southern Africa's best-kept secrets. Upon arrival, you'll have time to enjoy the peaceful surroundings and end the day with a relaxing dinner.
Day 6
Malalotja Game Reserve
Hawane Lodge, full board
Challenging hike (4-6 hours) with steep sections
Today's itinerary includes one of the most beautiful and challenging hikes of the trip. The route leads through the breathtaking hills and valleys of the Malolotja Wildlife Reserve – an area renowned for its pristine wilderness and spectacular scenery. The 4- to 6-hour hike leads along uneven paths through lush green valleys and past rocky mountain slopes. Steep climbs are rewarded with magnificent views before the highlight: a beautiful waterfall that invites you to linger. After an eventful day, it's back to the lodge, where a well-deserved dinner awaits the hikers.
Malalotja Game Reserve
Day 6
Hawane Lodge, full board
Challenging hike (4-6 hours) with steep sections
Today's itinerary includes one of the most beautiful and challenging hikes of the trip. The route leads through the breathtaking hills and valleys of the Malolotja Wildlife Reserve – an area renowned for its pristine wilderness and spectacular scenery. The 4- to 6-hour hike leads along uneven paths through lush green valleys and past rocky mountain slopes. Steep climbs are rewarded with magnificent views before the highlight: a beautiful waterfall that invites you to linger. After an eventful day, it's back to the lodge, where a well-deserved dinner awaits the hikers.
Day 7
Msinene Nature Reserve
Zululand Lodge, full board
2-3 hour easy hike along the Msinene River
After our stay in eSwatini, we cross the border into South Africa and travel to the Msinene Nature Reserve, a hidden gem in the heart of Zululand. Our lodge is located in the middle of the bush and offers an ideal setting for unforgettable safari experiences. In the afternoon, we'll embark on a guided hike along the Msinene River. A local guide will lead us through the river's dense vegetation, and with a bit of luck, we might spot the elusive nyala antelope. The area is also a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting over 540 different species. In the evening, we end the day with a relaxing dinner at the lodge, enjoying the sounds of the African wilderness as the sun sets behind the trees.
Msinene Nature Reserve
Day 7
Zululand Lodge, full board
2-3 hour easy hike along the Msinene River
After our stay in eSwatini, we cross the border into South Africa and travel to the Msinene Nature Reserve, a hidden gem in the heart of Zululand. Our lodge is located in the middle of the bush and offers an ideal setting for unforgettable safari experiences. In the afternoon, we'll embark on a guided hike along the Msinene River. A local guide will lead us through the river's dense vegetation, and with a bit of luck, we might spot the elusive nyala antelope. The area is also a birdwatcher's paradise, boasting over 540 different species. In the evening, we end the day with a relaxing dinner at the lodge, enjoying the sounds of the African wilderness as the sun sets behind the trees.
Day 8
Hluhluwe Game Reserve
Zululand Lodge, full board
Game drive in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve
Another safari highlight awaits us today: Early in the morning we will set off on a game drive in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve – one of the oldest and most species-rich protected areas in Africa. The wildlife reserve plays a vital role in the protection of rhinos and offers us the opportunity to observe these impressive animals in their natural habitat. Besides rhinos, the park is also home to elephants, buffalo, lions, and leopards – a true paradise for animal lovers. After an eventful day, we return to our lodge in the afternoon. We enjoy a leisurely dinner accompanied by the soothing sounds of the African bush, allowing the day to wind down in a relaxed atmosphere.
Hluhluwe Game Reserve
Day 8
Zululand Lodge, full board
Game drive in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve
Another safari highlight awaits us today: Early in the morning we will set off on a game drive in the Hluhluwe Game Reserve – one of the oldest and most species-rich protected areas in Africa. The wildlife reserve plays a vital role in the protection of rhinos and offers us the opportunity to observe these impressive animals in their natural habitat. Besides rhinos, the park is also home to elephants, buffalo, lions, and leopards – a true paradise for animal lovers. After an eventful day, we return to our lodge in the afternoon. We enjoy a leisurely dinner accompanied by the soothing sounds of the African bush, allowing the day to wind down in a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 9
Onward to Dundee
Bella's Rest Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch
Visit to the Talana Museum, relaxing afternoon
Today we leave the Zululand bushland and continue our journey through the rolling hills and picturesque valleys of this historically rich region. Our destination is the small town of Dundee, a place where fierce battles once took place between Zulu, British, and Boers. Upon arrival, we will visit the Talana Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the colonial past and the region's famous wars. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your leisure – ideal for relaxing at the lodge or taking a stroll in the surrounding area.
Onward to Dundee
Day 9
Bella's Rest Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch
Visit to the Talana Museum, relaxing afternoon
Today we leave the Zululand bushland and continue our journey through the rolling hills and picturesque valleys of this historically rich region. Our destination is the small town of Dundee, a place where fierce battles once took place between Zulu, British, and Boers. Upon arrival, we will visit the Talana Museum, which offers a fascinating glimpse into the colonial past and the region's famous wars. The afternoon is free for you to enjoy at your leisure – ideal for relaxing at the lodge or taking a stroll in the surrounding area.
Day 10
Zululand Battlefields
Bella's Rest Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch
Fugitives' Drift hike (4-5 hours, challenging terrain)
An exciting day awaits us! In the morning we will visit the historic battlefield of Isandlwana, the site of one of the most famous clashes between Zulu warriors and the British army. Afterwards, we embark on a 4-5 hour hike along the Fugitives' Drift, following in the footsteps of two British soldiers who attempted to reach the Buffalo River after the Battle of Isandlwana. The hike takes us through a stunning landscape of rolling hills and steep sections – an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves history and nature. Later in the day, we visit Rorke's Drift, another historic site where a dramatic battle took place between Zulus and the British. After an eventful day, we return to our lodge and have the evening to relax and reflect on our experiences.
Zululand Battlefields
Day 10
Bella's Rest Guesthouse, Breakfast, Lunch
Fugitives' Drift hike (4-5 hours, challenging terrain)
An exciting day awaits us! In the morning we will visit the historic battlefield of Isandlwana, the site of one of the most famous clashes between Zulu warriors and the British army. Afterwards, we embark on a 4-5 hour hike along the Fugitives' Drift, following in the footsteps of two British soldiers who attempted to reach the Buffalo River after the Battle of Isandlwana. The hike takes us through a stunning landscape of rolling hills and steep sections – an unforgettable experience for anyone who loves history and nature. Later in the day, we visit Rorke's Drift, another historic site where a dramatic battle took place between Zulus and the British. After an eventful day, we return to our lodge and have the evening to relax and reflect on our experiences.
Day 11
Drakensberg
Royal Natal Thendele Camp, full board
After our historically rich journey through Zululand, our trip continues into the impressive Drakensberg Mountains, also known as uKhahlamba – "Barrier of Spears". This majestic mountain range is among the most beautiful landscapes in South Africa and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our camp is situated at the foot of the mountains at an altitude of 1,600 meters and offers spectacular views of the imposing rock formations. After arrival, we will have time to enjoy the fresh mountain air and prepare for the upcoming hikes. In the evening we gather around the campfire and relax amidst the untouched nature to end the day.
Drakensberg
Day 11
Royal Natal Thendele Camp, full board
After our historically rich journey through Zululand, our trip continues into the impressive Drakensberg Mountains, also known as uKhahlamba – "Barrier of Spears". This majestic mountain range is among the most beautiful landscapes in South Africa and has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Our camp is situated at the foot of the mountains at an altitude of 1,600 meters and offers spectacular views of the imposing rock formations. After arrival, we will have time to enjoy the fresh mountain air and prepare for the upcoming hikes. In the evening we gather around the campfire and relax amidst the untouched nature to end the day.
Day 12
Royal Natal National Park
Royal Natal Thendele Camp, full board
Moderate hike to the Tugela Gorge (5.5 hours) with rocky sections
A perfect day for nature lovers! Today we'll hike for 5.5 hours on well-maintained mountain trails through Royal Natal National Park. Our destination is the impressive Tugela Gorge, which has carved deep into the rocky landscape of the Drakensberg Mountains. The route leads us through green valleys, past imposing rock formations, and across small mountain streams. Some sections require sure footing, as we have to climb over rocks and jump from stone to stone. But the effort is worthwhile – at the end, a breathtaking view of the vertical rock faces and the Tugela Falls, among the highest waterfalls in the world, awaits us. After the hike, we have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the clear mountain streams and enjoy the wonderful tranquility of this unique landscape.
Royal Natal National Park
Day 12
Royal Natal Thendele Camp, full board
Moderate hike to the Tugela Gorge (5.5 hours) with rocky sections
A perfect day for nature lovers! Today we'll hike for 5.5 hours on well-maintained mountain trails through Royal Natal National Park. Our destination is the impressive Tugela Gorge, which has carved deep into the rocky landscape of the Drakensberg Mountains. The route leads us through green valleys, past imposing rock formations, and across small mountain streams. Some sections require sure footing, as we have to climb over rocks and jump from stone to stone. But the effort is worthwhile – at the end, a breathtaking view of the vertical rock faces and the Tugela Falls, among the highest waterfalls in the world, awaits us. After the hike, we have the opportunity to take a refreshing dip in the clear mountain streams and enjoy the wonderful tranquility of this unique landscape.
Day 13
Witsieshoek and Drakensberg Amphitheatre
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge, breakfast, lunch
Challenging hike (5-6 hours) with steep ascents, uneven paths and a short section over climbing ladders.
The day begins with an early breakfast before we set off for Witsieshoek, an impressive mountain region at the foot of the majestic Sentinel Peak. Here our great adventure begins: a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit of the Drakensberg Amphitheatre. On well-maintained, though sometimes steep, paths, we climb to the 3,000-meter mark, enjoying spectacular views of the vast plains of KwaZulu-Natal along the way. A short section using chain ladders brings us even closer to our destination. At the top, an unforgettable panoramic view awaits us – and the famous Tugela Falls, among the highest waterfalls in Africa. After this unique nature experience, we make our way back to our mountain lodge at 2,300 m altitude, from where we enjoy a magnificent view of the Mont Aux Sources mountain range. Here we end the day in a relaxed atmosphere.
Witsieshoek and Drakensberg Amphitheatre
Day 13
Witsieshoek Mountain Lodge, breakfast, lunch
Challenging hike (5-6 hours) with steep ascents, uneven paths and a short section over climbing ladders.
The day begins with an early breakfast before we set off for Witsieshoek, an impressive mountain region at the foot of the majestic Sentinel Peak. Here our great adventure begins: a challenging but rewarding hike to the summit of the Drakensberg Amphitheatre. On well-maintained, though sometimes steep, paths, we climb to the 3,000-meter mark, enjoying spectacular views of the vast plains of KwaZulu-Natal along the way. A short section using chain ladders brings us even closer to our destination. At the top, an unforgettable panoramic view awaits us – and the famous Tugela Falls, among the highest waterfalls in Africa. After this unique nature experience, we make our way back to our mountain lodge at 2,300 m altitude, from where we enjoy a magnificent view of the Mont Aux Sources mountain range. Here we end the day in a relaxed atmosphere.
Day 14
Back to Johannesburg
Breakfast, lunch
After the intense experiences of the past few days, we'll take it a bit easier today. The morning begins with a leisurely breakfast at the mountain lodge, where we can once again enjoy the fresh mountain air and the spectacular views. With a bit of luck, we might even spot the rare bearded vulture gliding majestically over the rocky peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains. Afterwards, we begin our return journey to Johannesburg. We'll stop for a relaxing lunch break along the way before continuing our trip. The drive takes approximately six hours and leads us through breathtaking landscapes. During the journey, we'll reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of the past two weeks – from thrilling safari adventures and fascinating hikes through spectacular scenery to cultural encounters in eSwatini and Zululand. An unforgettable hiking trip through South Africa. In the late afternoon, around 5:00 PM, we reach Johannesburg, where our journey officially ends. Here it's time to say goodbye – but the memories of this unique walking safari will stay with us for a long time. We are happy to help with planning your journey home or an individual extension of your stay.
Back to Johannesburg
Day 14
Breakfast, lunch
After the intense experiences of the past few days, we'll take it a bit easier today. The morning begins with a leisurely breakfast at the mountain lodge, where we can once again enjoy the fresh mountain air and the spectacular views. With a bit of luck, we might even spot the rare bearded vulture gliding majestically over the rocky peaks of the Drakensberg Mountains. Afterwards, we begin our return journey to Johannesburg. We'll stop for a relaxing lunch break along the way before continuing our trip. The drive takes approximately six hours and leads us through breathtaking landscapes. During the journey, we'll reminisce about the unforgettable experiences of the past two weeks – from thrilling safari adventures and fascinating hikes through spectacular scenery to cultural encounters in eSwatini and Zululand. An unforgettable hiking trip through South Africa. In the late afternoon, around 5:00 PM, we reach Johannesburg, where our journey officially ends. Here it's time to say goodbye – but the memories of this unique walking safari will stay with us for a long time. We are happy to help with planning your journey home or an individual extension of your stay.
Services
What's included
13 nights in lodges, rest camps and guesthouses
13 breakfasts, 14 lunches and 10 dinners are included (from 2027: 9 dinners, as dinner on day 2 will be omitted).
Professional English- or German-speaking guide and a driver included.
all necessary transfers (in safari trucks or minibuses)
Activities as per detailed itinerary
digital travel folder including travel guide
What's not included
Individual travel to and from the destination (we are happy to put together a suitable offer)
Travel insurance (we are happy to put together an individual offer)
personal equipment
Visa and vaccinations, if required
Tip
From 2027 onwards: Dinner on day 2
Character of the trip
Fitness
Demanding
Altitude
Medium
Culture / nature
Pure nature
The program ranges from easy walks to challenging mountain hikes with steep sections and sometimes uneven terrain. Daily hiking times vary between 1 and 6 hours, with elevation gains of up to approximately 1,000 meters. A good level of fitness, sure-footedness, and hiking experience are therefore required, especially for the stages in the Drakensberg Mountains and the Malolotja Nature Reserve.
In addition to hiking, you can expect intensive wildlife viewing in Kruger National Park and Hluhluwe Game Reserve, as well as fascinating encounters with the history and culture of Zululand and eSwatini. Accommodation will be in lodges, guesthouses, and camps with a local character – some simple, some comfortable.
Dates and prices
Group dates
