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Signature: South Africa's Kruger National Park
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Length
6 Days
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Quality
This indicates the overall quality of the tour operator's products. A low rating does not mean it is not good - it just means that it does not include as much, or perhaps is of a more standard quality than the higher quality tours. For example, a 3 star quality rating means that it is a more standard/economical tour, while 5 stars is a very luxurious tour that often includes a lot of amenities. -
Starts in
Johannesburg (South Africa)
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Ends in
Johannesburg (South Africa)
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Available Tour Start Dates
JAN 20, 2027 to DEC 31, 2029
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Activity Level
Easy
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Style
Fully-Guided
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Guaranteed Date(s)
Yes means that there is at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur. No means that there is not at least one tour date that the vendor guarantees will occur, which usually means that the vendor wants a certain amount of reservations on each tour in order for each one to occur. Of course, the terms and conditions of the vendor do allow for the vendor to cancel guaranteed tour dates for certain reasons (for example, a natural disaster).Yes
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Special Interest(s)
National Geographic
Exceptional exploration led by renowned experts, offering rare, private access to the world's most storied sites - all defined by an unparalleled level of service and comfort., Small GroupGroup trips average 12 travellers per departure, depending on the adventure. The maximum is usually no more than 16, but some can be smaller or bigger, depending on the trip. Check individual trips for details.
From
Pricing listed is per person, based on double occupancy, and is the least expensive price for at least one departure date of this tour. Price is for the tour only. Additional items, including but not limited to, airfare (unless noted otherwise), travel insurance, and more, are additional.
$7,599.00
Contact Us for a Special Price!
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 accommodations, offering unparalleled views and excellent wildlife spotting opportunities.
Visited During Tour
Hoedspruit (South Africa) | Johannesburg (South Africa) | Kruger National Park (South Africa)
Dates, Offers & Prices
Tour Itinerary
Accommodations
More Details
Dates, Offers & Prices
The following are Signature: South Africa's Kruger National Park tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
There is at least one departure that the vendor is advising is Not Available for the selected year. Click here if you would like such tours to be included below.
Tour Itinerary
G Adventures Tour Code DSJJNS-11199
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Day
1Johannesburg
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.
- Meals Included:
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
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.
Accommodations: The Leonardo Hotel -
Day
2Johannesburg to Greater Kruger Area via Hoedspruit
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.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
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.
Accommodations: Thornybush Game Lodge -
Day
3Greater Kruger Area
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.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
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.
Accommodations: Thornybush Game Lodge -
Day
4Greater Kruger Area to Kruger National Park via Hazyview
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.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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."
Accommodations: Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge -
Day
5Kruger 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.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
- Lunch
- Dinner
Exclusive Inclusions:
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.
Accommodations: Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge -
Day
6Kruger National Park/Johannesburg
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.
- Meals Included:
- Breakfast
Exclusive Inclusions:
Private Vehicle
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Plane
Sit back and enjoy the views from above on a short flight between the Kruger National Park area to Johannesburg.
Accommodations
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: South Africa's Kruger National Park tour:
Johannesburg
The Leonardo Hotel
Location
75 Maude Street
Johannesburg, South Africa-2146
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Kruger
Thornybush Game Lodge
Location
Guernsey Road Hoedspruit
Kruger, South Africa-1380
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
Kruger Shalati - The Train on the Bridge
Location
Kruger National Park Selati Bridge Precinct Skukuza
Kruger, South Africa-1350
Other Details
- Hotel as shown or similar (G Adventures may replace it with a similar property)
More Details
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: South Africa's Kruger National Park tour:
Group Size
Max. 22, avg. 16.
What's Included
Your G for Good Moment: Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre Visit, HazyviewYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, JohannesburgSignature 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.
Highlights
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
Message from G Adventures About Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is a mandatory prerequisite for participation in all our departures. To safeguard your well-being, your National Geographic Expedition Leader will kindly request to verify your physical policy details before you may officially join your fellow travellers.When choosing your coverage, please ensure your policy includes full medical protection, featuring a strict minimum requirement of $200,000 USD for emergency rescue and medical repatriation. For complete peace of mind while exploring, we also strongly advise securing comprehensive coverage for personal liability, trip cancellation or curtailment, and the loss of luggage and personal belongings. If you intend to rely on insurance provided through your credit card, you must supply formal proof of purchase—such as a credit card statement or receipt in your name—along with explicit confirmation from your banking institution regarding the participating insurer, exact policy limits, and their dedicated 24-hour emergency contact number.
What transportation will we take on this trip?
Across the vast, sun-baked savannas of Africa, the line between a rugged journey and a front-row seat to the natural world depends entirely on your vessel. For this expedition, the terrain is traversed in custom-engineered, private 7-seat 4x4 safari vehicles. Outfitted with expansive sliding windows and a signature large pop-up roof, these mechanical beasts are meticulously designed to optimize wildlife viewing. To ensure both comfort and an intimate connection with the landscape, occupancy is strictly capped at six explorers per vehicle, with larger expeditions utilizing a convoy of up to three vehicles.The African interior is a study in elemental extremes. The tracks beneath our wheels span the entire spectrum of terrain, from newly paved stretches to deeply rutted, bone-rattling pathways. During the scorching dry seasons, these trails transform into ribbons of dust. Yet, this traditional style of overland travel remains unrivaled. The vehicles offer a vital sanctuary of comfortable seating, while the autonomy of a private fleet grants us the invaluable luxury of spontaneity—allowing the expedition to halt at a moment's notice to witness a crouching lioness lock eyes with her prey.In these remote regions, safety dictates our pace. All vehicles are outfitted with speed governors locked at a conservative 80 km/h, ensuring a controlled transit through unpredictable environments. For your personal protection against the sudden jolts of the terrain, seat belts must be worn at all times while the vehicle is in motion. Our vehicles are maintained to the highest standards, and in the unlikely event of a technical issue, our expert drivers are equipped to resolve it efficiently.
Accommodation Summary
Hotel (1 nt), Lodge (4 nts).
Meals Included
5 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 5 dinners
Group Leader
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.
What is the role of the group leader during this trip?
Every National Geographic Signature departure is accompanied throughout by a dedicated National Geographic Expedition Leader, whose purpose is to ensure a seamless experience so you can fully immerse yourself in the destination. Your Expedition Leader offers deep insight into the landscapes you traverse, suggests enriching independent activities, recommends exceptional local dining venues, and connects you with our community friends along the way. Rather than acting as conventional guides, they possess a broad, sophisticated understanding of the historical, cultural, religious, and social tapestry of the region. To offer the ultimate perspective, we complement their expertise with specialist local guides whose deep regional knowledge adds profound depth to specific sites—delivering a masterfully balanced exploration.
International Flights
No, international flights are generally not included in the price of your tour.However, on some combo tours travelling between two different countries, international flights are included as part of the itinerary and price of the tour. Please speak to your National Geographic Signature Specialist or booking agent for further details.In addition, check-in times and baggage allowances/restrictions vary by airline and can change at any time. For the most up-to-date information for your flight, please contact your airline. We recommend checking in online in advance to avoid potential delays at the airport.
Transportation
Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, plane, walking.
Minimum Age
You must be 18 to travel unaccompanied on a National Geographic Signature tour. For minors travelling with a guardian over 21 years old, the minimum age is 12.
Checklist
Cold weather:o Long-sleeved shirts or sweatero Scarfo Warm gloveso Warm hato Warm layersDocuments:o Flight info (required) (Printouts of e-tickets may be required at the border)o Insurance info (required) (With photocopies)o Passport (required) (With photocopies)o Vouchers and pre-departure information (required)o Visas or vaccination certificates (With photocopies)Essentials:o Toiletries (required) (Shampoo, bodywash, soap, etc.)o Binoculars (optional)o Camera (With extra memory cards and batteries)o Cash, credit and debit cardso Day pack (Used for daily excursions or short overnights)o Ear plugso First-aid kit (should contain lip balm with sunscreen, sunscreen, whistle, Aspirin, Ibuprofen, bandaids/plasters, tape, anti-histamines, antibacterial gel/wipes, antiseptic cream, Imodium or similar tablets for mild cases of diarrhea, rehydration powder, water purification tablets or drops, insect repellent, sewing kit, extra prescription drugs you may be taking)o Flashlight/torch (Headlamps are ideal)o Fleece top/sweatero Footwearo Hato Headphones (Noise-cancelling recommended)o Locks for bagso Long pants/jeanso Moneybelto Outlet adaptero Personal entertainment (Reading and writing materials, cards, music player, etc.)o Reusable water bottleo Shirts/t-shirtso Sleepwearo Small travel towelo Sunglasseso Swimwearo Watch and alarm clocko Waterproof backpack covero Windproof rain jacketHealth & Safety:o Face masks (Clients will be only be required to wear a face mask where it is mandated by local regulations.)o Hand sanitizero Pen (Please bring your own pen for filling out documents.)Safari:o Lightweight, breathable clothing (required) (Neutral tones, like khaki, olive, and tan are recommended. Avoid bright colours and camouflage patterns.)o Evening attire ("Smart casual" for dinners at the lodges (e.g., linen trousers, sundresses, or collared shirts))o Layers (Early morning game drives can be quite cold, even in summer. Bring a high-quality fleece or windproof jacket.)Warm Weather:o Sandals/flip-flopso Shorts/skirts (Longer shorts/skirts are recommended)o Sturdy water shoes/sandalso Sun hat/bandanao SwimwearNote: Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters (May to October) can be really cold and summers will be really hot. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives.
Packing Note
Seasons in Southern Africa are quite extreme. Winters (May to October) can be really cold and summers will be really hot. It is important to pack clothes for warm days and cool evenings, as well as a warm jacket for early morning wildlife safari drives.
Are there any additional packing suggestions I should consider?
When deciding what to pack, considerations will vary based on your specific itinerary, the regions you are visiting, and the season in which you are travelling. Generally speaking, we recommend packing thoughtfully and keeping your luggage to one checked bag at a manageable weight to facilitate seamless transitions throughout your expedition.In addition to your primary luggage, you will also require a small day pack or shoulder bag. This smaller bag is essential for keeping your camera, water, and personal items close at hand during day walks, excursions, and daily explorations.
When can I do my laundry on this trip?
Laundry services are available during your journey. Please consult your Expedition Leader for assistance with making these arrangements during your stay.
Service Level
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.
Pricing and availability are subject to change and must be confirmed by one of our travel advisors, who can contact the vendor to do so. Intra-vacation air (also referred to as internal air) is usually based on economy class seating (do not assume otherwise, unless explicity noted otherwise) and may be 100% non-refundable at time of final payment. Air quotes (including intra-vacation airfare) may be subject to change until final payment has been received by the vendor. Flight confirmation may be based on availability. Air reservations may not be able to be confirmed until a passport copy is received by the vendor. The following charges are not included in the vacation price unless otherwise noted: airfare to and from the start of your vacation; airline baggage fees including checked and/or excess baggage fees; Federal inspection fees for the Federal U.S. Customs and Immigrations; International Air Transportation tax; agricultural tax; other per person taxes imposed by government entities; airport taxes and fees, including the September 11th Security fee, passenger facility charges, Federal domestic flight segment fees, and U.S. and international arrival and departure and other government-imposed fees added by the airline and applicable at time of booking; port taxes; passports; visas and vaccinations; tips to your Cruise Director, Local Host, driver, Local Guides, and/or ship's crew; gratuities on ferries, trains, and cruise ships; laundry; telephone; minibar; alcohol, beverages, and food outside of the contracted menu as presented at a hotel or restaurant or onboard your vessel (these extra items will be billed to you before leaving the hotel, ship, or restaurant); airport transfers on non-qualifying flights; optional excursions; additional activities and excursions purchased online; porterage at airports and train stations; Travel Protection; and all other items of a personal nature. Itinerary details are provided by the vendor. Vendors may reserve the right to change itineraries, even on existing reservations. There may be instances where the name of a tour contains a tour length in it, but where there is a version of the tour that is a different number of days in length. You can check the true length of a tour by referring to the length value listed in association with that tour. Destination images displayed on this web page, some which are supplied by the related vendor and some which are not, are intended to simply give a general representation of the region of the world being visited during the tour. Such images are not necessarily of the exact areas being visited during the tour. Hotel details (including, but not limited to: rating/class, descriptions, images, amenities and addresses) are provided by G Adventures. Hotel amenities may be communicated in shorthand by G Adventures (for example, if "Laundry" is listed that may only mean that the hotel has an optional fee-based service that would allow for your laundry to be done by their staff). We reserve the right to correct errors.