Chobe National Park (Botswana) | Hoedspruit (South Africa) | Johannesburg (South Africa) | Kruger National Park (South Africa) | Victoria Falls (Zambia & Zimbabwe)
The following are Signature: Southern Africa's Kruger, Chobe & Victoria Falls tour dates available from G Adventures. Select a bonus offer graphic to view its details, including its terms.
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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.
You will be met at the airport and transferred to the hotel to start your adventure.
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.
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.
Sit back and enjoy the views from above on a short flight between Johannesburg and Hoedspruit.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
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."
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.
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.
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.
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.
Fly to Victoria Falls in Zimbabwe and settle into your lodge, enjoying welcome cocktails with stunning views over the Batoka Gorge, carved deep by the Zambezi River. In the evening, experience the Victoria Falls Theatre's award-winning production, "Simunye: The Spirit of Africa." Meet the cast behind this vibrant celebration of African music, dance, and storytelling-an exclusive experience that offers true cultural immersion through rhythm and performance.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sit back and enjoy the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Victoria Falls International Airport and your lodge stay.
Enjoy a lively theatre performance directed by the acclaimed handspring Puppeteer Mongiwekhaya, showcasing local professional artists in an intimate, open-air venue. This captivating fusion of dance, puppetry, music, and visuals delivers a powerful message of love and community and the universal spirit of togetherness. After the show the group will have some time to meet the cast of this award-winning production before returning to your haven on the banks of the Zambezi River.
Sit back and enjoy the views from above on a short flight between Kruger National Park area and Victoria Falls.
Start your day with a guided tour of Victoria Falls, feeling the mist of Mosi-oa-Tunya ('The Smoke that Thunders') as you witness its raw power up close. Next, visit the Lusumpuko Women's Club-a G for Good Project-for a cooking demonstration and traditional lunch prepared by the cooperative members. Return to the lodge to hear from the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust about their rescue work. As the sun sets, set out on a dedicated dinner cruise along the Zambezi River, watching the water turn to gold. A special guest will share tales of explorer David Livingstone, making this evening unforgettable.
Victoria Falls is one of the most compelling sites in the world, this cascading column of sheer energy powers its way down a 100m chasm, taking your breath away with its strength and incredible beauty. Victoria Falls is the world's largest curtain of falling water, creating immense spray, rainbows, and a unique rainforest ecosystem. Take in this magnificent natural wonder during a private, guided tour on the Zimbabwe side of the falls.
Start your visit to Victoria Falls off on the right foot by sitting down to a traditional, Zimbabwean meal, cooked by the Lusumpuko Women's Club, a group of women from a nearby township. A demonstration by the ladies will show you exactly how Zimbabweans traditionally eat their food, and you'll be served a farm-to-table meal made with traditional, local, in-season ingredients. This meal provides much-needed income to the cooperatives' 20 members - changing their lives and families in the process.
Gather together for a discussion on wildlife rescue and rehabilitation work from a member of the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust.
Board a private dinner cruise on the Zambezi River with a special guest speaker who will share tales of explorer David Livingstone. This unique experience combines gourmet dining with gorgeous scenery, creating an unforgettable evening on the water.
After breakfast, drive through Zambezi National Park and cross into Botswana. Arrive at your hotel, settle in, enjoy a light lunch. During high tea, join a talk to gain deeper insight into the park's conservation efforts before boarding eco-friendly, electric boats to take in the stunning vistas and wildlife along the Chobe River. Spot elephants along the water's edge and relax with a sundowner on deck. Return to the lodge for dinner by the river, accompanied by the sounds of the African night.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between Victoria Falls and the border crossing into Botswana at Kazungula.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the comfort of your private vehicle between the Botswana border crossing at Kazungula and your lodge stay in Chobe.
Board eco-friendly, electric boats and take in the stunning vistas along the Chobe River right by your lodge. The wildlife viewing while on a river safari in Chobe is unsurpassed anywhere else in Botswana. Elephants may line the water's edge, hippos will likely congregate in the lagoons, and many antelope and giraffe make their way to the water, while predators often wait patiently on the river banks. The lodge pioneered the use of electric boats for wildlife experiences on the water in 2014.
Start the day with an early morning safari drive through Chobe National Park, spotting majestic elephants, lions, and impala in the cool air. Return to the hotel for a hearty brunch. Then transfer to meet your dedicated, professional photo host before embarking on a Chobe River photo safari with camera equipment included. Glide along the southern channel of the Chobe River in search of elephants, hippos, and birdlife, capturing stunning wildlife shots with expert guidance along the water. Conclude the day with one final safari drive into the national park as you sip an included sundowner. Return to the lodge for a farewell dinner, celebrating your incredible journey through Southern Africa.
Rise early for a morning female-led safari drive inside Chobe National Park, where the lodge's specially adapted vehicles ensure that all guests enjoy a window seat and camera rest (should you have one.) Try to spot lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, and more in the golden morning light.
Board a photo safari just 20 minutes from the Zimbabwe/Botswana border on the Chobe River. Alongside your photo host you will set off on a leisurely ride through the Southern Channel of the river that will take your wildlife viewing to the next level. Photography is often the gateway to memory and with more professional equipment you can snap moments that will remain in your heart and mind forever.
In the afternoon set off for another female-led safari drive in Chobe National Park. Capture images of the park during a different time of day and relax with a sundowner as you admire the landscape around you.
Wake up early for a final safari drive, enjoying one last chance to spot Botswana's iconic wildlife before you depart. Return to the hotel for breakfast, then catch your flight to Johannesburg where our expedition to Southern Africa concludes.
Flights must depart after 7pm.
Rise early for a morning female-led safari drive inside Chobe National Park, where the lodge's specially adapted vehicles ensure that all guests enjoy a window seat and camera rest (should you have one.) Try to spot lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, giraffe, and more in the golden morning light.
Settle in and scan the scenery from the convenience of a private vehicle.
Sit back and enjoy the views from above on a flight between Kasane and Johannesburg.
Select a destination below to to view the hotel(s) included by G Adventures in their Signature: Southern Africa's Kruger, Chobe & Victoria Falls tour:
Chobe National Park, Serondela
Chobe National Park, Botswana
75 Maude Street
Johannesburg, South Africa-2146
Guernsey Road Hoedspruit
Kruger, South Africa-1380
Kruger National Park Selati Bridge Precinct Skukuza
Kruger, South Africa-1350
Wild Horizons Wildlife Sanctuary, Victoria Falls National Park
Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe
G Adventures is informing us of the following additional details regarding their Signature: Southern Africa's Kruger, Chobe & Victoria Falls tour:
Max 22, avg. 16.
Your G for Good Moment: Shabalala Interpretation of Culture Centre Visit, HazyviewYour G for Good Moment: Lusumpuko Women's Club Lunch, Victoria FallsYour Welcome Moment: Welcome Moment - Meet Your Expedition Leader and Group, JohannesburgSignature Moment: Private Tour & Talk at the Nelson Mandela Foundation, JohannesburgSignature Moment: Private Zambezi River Dinner Cruise, Victoria FallsSignature Moment: Pangolin Photo Safari Cruise on the Chobe River, Chobe National Park. Arrival transfer. Internal flight from Johannesburg to Hoedspruit. Afternoon safari drive with an Endangered Wildlife Trust conservationist in the Greater Kruger Area. Morning and afternoon safari drives in the Thornybush Private Game Reserve. Kruger National Park Safari Drives. Internal between Kruger and Victoria Falls. Attend the Simunye Theatre Show and meet the cast. Private, guided tour of Victoria Falls. Talk given by the Victoria Falls Wildlife Trust. Chobe National Park Safari Drives. Internal Flight from Kasane 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.
Meet the cast of 'Simunye: The Spirit of Africa' for an exclusive cultural immersion into African music and storytelling, Sleep suspended over the Sabie River in a restored train carriage at Kruger Shalati, Experience the sheer force and grandeur of Victoria Falls on a private guided tour offering an unforgettable, up-close encounter with "The Smoke That Thunders," Capture wildlife up close on the Chobe River with guidance from expert photographers
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.
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.
Hotels (5 nts), Lodge (4 nts).
9 breakfasts, 5 lunches, 9 dinners
National Geographic Expedition Leader and National Geographic Expedition Expert throughout.
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.
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.
Private vehicle, 4x4 safari vehicle, boat, plane, walking
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.
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.
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.
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.
Laundry services are available during your journey. Please consult your Expedition Leader for assistance with making these arrangements during your stay.
Luxury: Five-star hospitality and meticulously curated inclusions, featuring iconic properties, fine dining, and private door-to-door service.