- Combine stunning walks and wildlife-watching in one unforgettable adventure in southern Africa
- Hike the most scenic trails in the dramatic Drakensberg mountains over several days
- Spot iconic safari animals on multiple game drives in Kruger National Park
- Walk the most picturesque trails in Malolotja Nature Reserve, Eswatini
- Cruise Lake St Lucia where hippos and crocodiles populate the waters
South Africa: Walking & Wildlife
15 Days
Excluding Flights From
17 Days
from
Incl. taxes
Excl. flights
Walking & Trekking
Activity Level
Moderate
See our Activity Level Guidelines to check if this holiday is right for you
Comfort Level
Classic
Itinerary
Johannesburg Johannesburg
Depart London
Depart London.
Start Johannesburg; to Graskop
We meet at the start hotel before collecting the rest of the group from the airport. We then transfer to the town of Graskop, which perched on the edge of the Mpumalanga escarpment. It is a long drive but we stop at regular intervals to take in the spectacular scenery and to visit the well-known Mac Mac Falls. En route we travel through the highest town in South Africa, Belfast (6,465ft/1,970m), and the scenic Long Tom Pass. We also take the opportunity to stock up on supplies such as drinks and snacks.
Accommodation: Mogodi Lodge (or similar)
Explore the Panorama Route; walk the Leopard, Guineafowl and Kadishi-Tufa trails
We drive through some beautiful countryside this morning, starting with the stunning views at God’s Window. If we are lucky, God’s Blanket may be down, a majestic cloud inversion that gives you the feeling of being on top of the world. We visit the fascinating rock formations at Bourke’s Luck Potholes, before stopping for breathtaking views over Blyde River Canyon, the third-largest canyon in the southern hemisphere. In the afternoon, we enjoy our first walk of the itinerary, a loop that includes the Leopard, Guineafowl and Kadishi-Tufa trails. Along the way, we have further views on Blyde River Canyon, walk through forest and stop at Tufa Waterfall. Most of the trail is on a good path, but there are some sections of small rock steps, roots and a few small stream crossings.
Accommodation: Blyde Canyon Forever Resort (or similar)
Drive to a private game reserve; afternoon game drive
After breakfast, we drive to a private game reserve in the Greater Kruger area, our base for the next two days. We have time to relax and enjoy the views from camp before heading out for an afternoon game drive in search of the resident buffalo, zebra, elephant and the elusive leopard.
Accommodation: Makuwa Safari Lodge (or similar)
Morning game walk; free afternoon
We have an early start this morning, as we drive 40 minutes from our accommodation and meet our specialist guide in Hoedspruit. It’s then a short drive to Pridelands, a wildlife-rich private reserve that forms part of the Greater Kruger National Park and is open to the Kruger. Here we spend three hours, at least two of these walking while following animal tracks and the rest of the time on an open game drive, searching for the iconic wildlife of Africa. The walk is likely to be around 3mi (5km) but this changes from trip to trip. We walk in the early morning before the heat of the day but it can still get hot in the African Bush. Wear proper walking shoes and trousers (pants).
The afternoon is free to relax or go an optional game drive.
Accommodation: Makuwa Safari Lodge (or similar)
Transfer to Kruger National Park; afternoon game drive
We head to Kruger National Park, justifiably one of the most famous wildlife parks in the world. It is also one of the oldest, established by the South African president Paul Kruger in 1898. It has arguably the greatest variety of animals of any park in Africa, with lion, leopard, elephant, buffalo, black and white rhino, plus cheetah, giraffes, hippos and many species of antelopes and smaller plains game. We game drive (in our vehicle) through the park where we have an excellent chance of seeing a wide variety of wildlife. We arrive at our Kruger campsite in the late afternoon just before the camp gates close to maximise our game-viewing chances.
Accommodation: Skukuza or Pretoriuskop camp (or similar)
Morning game drive in Kruger; transfer to Eswatini (Swaziland)
We get up before sunrise for a game drive at, arguably, the best time of day for game-spotting. We return to camp for breakfast and to pack up before moving onto a new country: Eswatini (Swaziland). We leave the park at around lunch time and have a short stop to resupply before crossing the border into Eswatini (Swaziland). We drive (three hours) to the hilly Malolotja Nature Reserve, where we spend a relaxing evening in the cabins ready for a long walk tomorrow.
Accommodation: Malolotja Cabins (or similar)
Full day walk in Malolotja
Today we explore the reserve on foot, taking the most picturesque route. We start from the cabins, enjoying a warm-up walk along a dirt track to the Logwala viewpoint. From here, we have a fairly steep descent to the Malolotja Waterfall viewpoint. We then have a picnic lunch by a stream and, if the water levels are high enough, a swim. After, we continue on the path, following a contour line, before a short climb brings us to the Silotfwane viewpoint. It’s then back through the beautiful valley, crossing a small stream, back to the Logwala viewpoint and onto the cabins.
More than 280 bird species have been spotted in this reserve, as have many antelope species, zebras and wildebeest. You will have great views and the chance to spot various eagles or even the very rare bald ibis.
Accommodation: Malolotja Cabins (or similar)
Visit craft market; to St Lucia
Today we head out of Eswatini (Swaziland) and back into South Africa. On the way, we visit Swazi Candles, where we can watch the artisans make their candles, plus there’s a tearoom and separate craft market with wood and stone carvings and batiks.
After, we head south through rural Eswatini (Swaziland), before entering South Africa and travelling to St Lucia. This small town is both by the Indian Ocean and by Lake St Lucia and is known for its crocodile and hippo populations (hippos are sometimes seen wandering in town). The lake itself is the largest estuary in Africa and a haven for birds. The proximity to the ocean means it is possible to go swimming and even whale watching (June to November).
Accommodation: Shonalanga apartments (or similar)
Morning boat cruise; afternoon visit Cape Vidal
Getting up early, we head down to the dock and board a boat on the nearby lake. We spend two hours exploring by boat with an excellent chance of seeing some of the many resident hippos, crocodiles and fish eagles. We return to our apartments for breakfast and then pack a picnic lunch for the short drive to Cape Vidal, a long stretch of beach along the Indian Ocean. Along the way, we stop at bird hides and there’s a small chance of spotting rhinos. We spend the afternoon relaxing on the beach with a chance to visit Mission Rocks, where turtles sometimes congregate.
Accommodation: Shonalanga apartments (or similar)
Transfer to battlefields; hike the fugitive trail
Leaving the coast behind, we head 185mi (300km) towards the battlefields where the British and Zulus fought in 1879. After lunch, we go on a four-hour hike along the fugitive trail, which follows the route taken by the British survivors from the battle of Isandlwana to Rorke’s Drift. Our trail takes us through acacia bushveld, crossing a small river and the Buffalo River crossing point.
The British and colonial force was armed with rifles, mountain guns and rocket battery and were facing 20,000 Zulu warriors armed with spears. By the end of the battle, there were only 65 British and colonial survivors. Anyone who would prefer to sit out of the walk can take a bus transfer to Rorke’s Drift, where there is a museum with exhibitions on the battle.
After our hike, we transfer 31mi (50km) to our lodge for the night.
Accommodation: Amabutho Warrior Lodge (or similar)
To Royal Natal National Park; afternoon walk
We continue our journey to the beautiful Royal Natal National Park, known from being home to the distinctive natural Amphitheatre. The Drakensberg is a basalt escarpment forming the border between Kwa-Zulu Natal and Lesotho and continuing into the Free State. It means Dragon Mountains, but the Zulu named it Quuathlamba (the Barrier of Spears) – a more accurate description of the sheer, forbidding, jagged escarpment. This afternoon, we go for walks in the local area from our lodge where we are staying. There are several walks we can choose from such as to Policeman’s Helmet or to some bushmen paintings.
Accommodation: Thendele Chalets (or similar)
Tugela Gorge hike
Today, we follow the Thukela River, past protea trees (the national flower of South Africa as well as the name of their cricket team), indigenous yellow wood forest and mountainous grasslands to the natural Amphitheatre and Tugela Waterfall viewpoint. The walk, which involves some boulder hopping and crossing a dry riverbed close to the end, takes us into the heart of Royal Natal National Park and offers stunning views of the dramatic northern Drakensberg Mountains.
Accommodation: Thendele Chalets (or similar)
Full-day hike to Witsieshoek
As the bus takes our luggage to our next lodge, we head along trails by foot. The start of our route follows a contour line and takes us via Tiger Falls with excellent views over Royal Natal National Park. From here, we continue to a lookout rock for photographs over the valley, before crossing the Mahai River and making our way to Gudu Bush.
We then arrive at a split in the path and have a choice of two routes up the mountain. Typically, we ascend through a crack and then onto the Bushmen Gate and Witsieshoek. Time permitting, and if the group are fit enough, we take the alternate route to see the Mahai Falls en route to Witsieshoek. Overall, the paths are well maintained and there is a section of short wooden ladders to climb.
Accommodation: Witsieshoek Lodge (or similar)
Hike to Tugela Falls, the second tallest waterfall in the world
In the morning, we drive 9mi (15km) along a poor road to the trek start point at the Sentinel Gate. Upon arrival, we register with the rangers and are joined by a local mountain guide. From here, we trek along the edge of the mountains, possibly chaperoned by mountain baboons or, if we are lucky, by the resident bearded vultures, up to the ladders, which take us to the top (9,515ft/2,900m). We then follow the Thukela River to the edge of the Tugela Falls, the highest waterfall in Africa, and enjoy views across the amphitheatre and our previous day’s route. We then walk back to the vehicle and transfer 9mi (15km) to our lodge. The hike should take about six hours including stopping for lunch.
Accommodation: Witsieshoek Lodge (or similar)
Drive through Golden Gate National Park en route to Johannesburg; end Johannesburg.
There is an optional three-hour final morning walk in these wonderful mountains, with a local guide, before driving back to Johannesburg in time for our flight this evening. The trip ends upon arrival in Johannesburg.
Please note: If you are organising your own flights, these should not be earlier than the group flights due to the distance we need to travel back to the airport.
Arrive London.
Arrive London.
Lodges, Chalets and Tented Camp
Accommodation will feature a mixture of chalets and lodges but we also stay in a permanent tented camp on this wildlife and walking adventure through Southern Africa.
In Eswatini (Swaziland) and at Thendele Camp the chalets consist of two rooms sharing a bathroom and a lounge. The accommodation in Eswatini (Swaziland) is of a more rustic nature, however, it is located in a beautiful setting within the game reserve which removes the need for transfers and our stay contributes to efforts made in conserving and preserving their natural heritage. It is possible to get laundry done in Eswatini (Swaziland). In the Kruger Park, we stay in a permanent tented camp with en suite bathrooms.
Wifi is available most nights but is not always very reliable.
Single rooms are available throughout. Please note that on the nights in the Drakensberg and in Eswatini (Swaziland) you might share a chalet/cabin with other members of the group. However, you will still have a single room to yourself.
Trip Experts
John Penge
Product Manager Africa
Reviews
Add your own reviewStunning wildlife, walks and leaders!
Quite the most incredble insight into what SA has to offer. With the help of our two brilliant leaders Clifford & Andy we were spoilt by the number of bird and big 5 sightings (these guys have eyes in the back of their heads and Xray vision!). For wildlife spotting this trip does not disappoint – elephant, giraffe, rhino, hyena, lions, warthog, so many antelope and not forgetting a “Leopard Tortoise”all in our first week. Glorious walks abound, the Drakensberg are truely breathaking and we were expertly lead and looked after according to our skill levels. In amongst this were enlightening lessons in tribal history and culture that helped us understand the real SA. Accomodation is varied but everytime suited the location perfectly. The days were long but our leaders were tireless in their enthusiasm, kindness and skills in cooking! If you want a memorable and very varied trip in Africa this is a winner.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing a Rhino family with Dad and baby play charging and seeing the Drakensberg escarpment for the first time.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Andy & Clifford are just the best human beings - generous, kind, knowledgeable, skilled and just great to be around.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for early starts and sometimes long days, this isn't a relaxing holiday - quite full on. Walks are at times challenging, due to altitude and terrain (some scrambling and chain ladders).
Outstanding adventure
From the moment I stepped off the plane and met our guides Clifford and Andy the trip was exciting it comprised of such a fabulous variety of experiences and immersed you in South African culture, history, beauty and wildlife. The accommodation was varied and suited the environments we were in. The game drives were superb and we saw such a large variety of animals and birds. The hikes took us to areas of outstanding breathtaking beauty. Our guides were phenomenal nothing was to much trouble they understood our individuality and catered to our needs as the only vegetarian in the group I was given some of the most awesome meals courtesy of our guides cooking skills. I would highly recommend this trip
Most Inspirational Moment
The whole trip was inspiring however seeing the baby hyena and the rhinos with their baby was emotional. The hike on the last day to Sentinel peak and climbing the ladders was a personal inspirational moment for me
Thoughts on Group Leader
Clifford and Andy were incredible the knowledge of the country and history was immense they were energetic and worked tirelessly to make sure we eat well, saw as much as possible and learnt about their history and culture. They attended to the group needs to the smallest detail which made a big difference and gave that feeling of being special and valued. Andy is an outstanding driver I always felt secure attended to and confident in their hands. It’s the first time in arriving at the airport to go home I have felt tearful at leaving the guides
Advice for Potential Travellers
I would say do not underestimate the hiking you do need to be fit and the terrain is tricky at times. There are places that will do laundry during the trip so do not over pack. A head torch is a must. Overall my advice is take each moment in and enjoy
South African adventures
Prior to my trip I fully reviewed the itinerary and the many favourable comments on the trip and your company. This is not an assassination as there we many positive aspects. My travelling partner and myself arrived in South Africa three days prior and were meant to meet the remainder of the group on the Saturday .Sadly , and totally outside Exodus control’, the flight was cancelled and we meet our two guides at the Airport .Max and Paul took us on impromptu tour of Soweto which proved an excellent experience and was much appreciated. Should we have been advised by Exodus beforehand . We met the rest of the group on Day 2and I was surprised at the make up of the group and the physical ability of one member in particular was questionable from the outset. When completing challenges with other companies , I have always had to complete medical questionnaires including a doctor’s assessment now I am sixty five years of age. It’s beyond me that this gentleman should have been considered for this, at time, challenging adventure. I’m afraid to say his presence impacted the moral of the group and resulted in walks being shortened or omitted all together Accommodation throughout the trip were on the whole satisfactory. There was a few instances where hot water was not available. Food was excellent.Max and Paul catered for us well when their cooking skills were called upon. The only niggle was that too much time spent over the preparation of lunchtime meals when perhaps a self prepared sandwich would have sufficed. I went on the trip primarily as a walking holiday and in our case we missed out on some of these . Such as the fugitive trail, cape Vidal to Mission Rock and the Eswatini walk cut short. A bit disappointing. The group were a very well travelled group having completed many adventures with Exodus . I know that they were also disappointed with the trip Would I do the trip again ?. Yes. For all the shortcomings it was a fascinating insight into a wonderfully beautiful and complex country . I will definitely return to South Africa if the opportunity arises.
Most Inspirational Moment
1 The impromptu visit to Soweto. 2. The guided talk of the battlefields 3 A hippo walking down the middle of the main road in St Lucia 4 the beauty of the Drakensberg mountains ,
Thoughts on Group Leader
Max was extremely knowledgable on wild life and also cultural matters which provided a great insight into a complex country. He also has a strong political opinion. I felt he encountered various problems on the trip which had to be sorted . Most of these were sorted satisfactorily but as the trip progressed I felt he was starting to lose patience with some members of the group and I got the feeling he was pleased when we arrived back in Johannesburg. Much of his work was excellent but he perhaps needs to work on his inter personal skills. In all of this I cannot give Paul , his co leader enough praise. At all times he was caring and considerate and was fully supportive of the group. In some cases I am aware that he defused some issues with his professional attitude. Paul did 90%of the driving in a professional manner and I felt safe in his hands.
Advice for Potential Travellers
. A lot of travelling by mini bus between destinations. I felt it longer than I expected. We went in September and saw temperatures vary between 16 c. and 34c daytime . Be prepared for a lot of early starts, this trip is full on. It is a truly beautiful country and whilst there is no doubt a lot security problems, I never encountered any and you should not be put off . At no time did I feel uncomfortable or at risk.
Reply from Exodus
We appreciate Richard taking the time to review his experience, and though we are heartened to hear that he found a good deal of positives about his trip and found it satisfactory overall, we’re sorry that some aspects left him disappointed.
We were unfortunately informed about a group flight cancellation at late notice by the airline at the start of this trip, which meant that Richard and his travelling companion arrived before the rest of the delayed group, and our local team made arrangements to keep them occupied – we’re really glad to hear that Richard enjoyed the tour of Soweto.
Regarding the suitability of another client on Richard’s trip, we do require that all pre-existing medical conditions are disclosed to us on booking, and we screen clients who are over 80 years of age for their suitability for an itinerary; however, aside from this we trust that our clients are able to self-certify using the detailed tour literature provided, including the grading of a trip and the information about terrain and distances walked. We find in general that this approach works extremely well and it is rare that issues arise such as Richard describes, though we are regretful that the client he mentions may have overestimated his abilities or the challenge of the walks on this occasion.
Regrettably, we are aware that on this departure a couple of walks could not be completed as expected, though the majority went ahead as planned and, in general, the feedback we received from Richard’s group was positive. Where possible, we always try to provide replacement activities should any parts of the itinerary not be achievable.
Overall, we are happy to hear that Richard got a lot out of his time in South Africa and experienced some truly memorable moments. We have taken his comments on board going forward, as while we’re confident this is a great trip we’re always looking to make improvements where possible for the future.
– John Penge, Exodus Product Manager
First exodus trip
First group trip on some years. Superb experience and packed so much in. Saw big 5, gear locations, food and like minded company
Most Inspirational Moment
The elephant encounter on game drive. A on heat bull in a rampant mood was so impressive. The guides got us in the best places.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Both the guides Clifford and Evans had a few challenges with a client going down with heat stroke and then heavy rain. On a different day I might add. It’s when you see the professionalism of people at times like this, they were and handled it very well
Advice for Potential Travellers
Clients need to be fit, not really fit, just hill walking fit. Also some headphones and podcasts for the driving times. Also prepared for a lack of WiFi!
Fantastic trip
This is a great trip for those who love both wildlife and hiking. In terms of wildlife, I thought St Lucia and Letaba were special and found Kruger a bit too commercial (like Etosha). The scenery for the hiking is fantastic, particularly in Swaziland and the Drakensberg (one of the most beautiful places I have ever been). If anything, I would like it to have been a bit more challenging as the walks were a little short for myself and other members of the group on some days. This didn’t take away from a wonderful trip which I would recommend to anyone.
Most Inspirational Moment
The Letaba reserve was wonderful - less animals than Kruger but we had it to ourselves which was so special.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Our group leader was Marco Olivier, and he was absolutely brilliant. He was supported by Clifford, who was also excellent. The logistics were seamless and the food was great (pretty much always better than restaurant equivalents). They shared so much knowledge about their country - history, people, animals and flora. They always had our well-being at the top of the list and couldn't do enough to make the trip special. Our small group of 8 had so much fun and this was definitely influenced by the relaxed and happy environment the guys created. I've been on about 8 Exodus trips and Marco and Clifford were amongst the very best team that I've experienced.
Fantastic Trip
The itinerary looked good but the trip exceeded expectations. Superb mix of activities, locations and accommodation.
Good group who got on well and mucked in when needed.
Amazing scenery and saw all the Big5 and much more besides.
Blyde River Canyon, Eswatini and, of course, the Drakensburg were all stunning.
Weather good although walking in 30c+ was a challenge and needed regular rehydration.
Challenging walks with most of the group agreeing a moderate rating is misleading.Seeing leopards, after 2 previously unsuccessful trips, as we were almost out of the Kruger and completing the BIg5 on our last game drive at St Lucia.
Otherwise the hike to Witsieshoek via the challenging Witsieshoek Crack with boulder scambling and ladders.
Most Inspirational Moment
Seeing leopards, after 2 previously unsuccessful trips, as we were almost out of the Kruger and completing the BIg5 on our last game drive at St Lucia. Otherwise the hike to Witsieshoek via the challenging Witsieshoek Crack with boulder scambling and ladders.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Andrew Lindsay was outstanding in every aspect. Probably the best Leader we have travelled with.
Advice for Potential Travellers
The Trip Notes need updating and I have advised Exodus where there are issues such as printed Covid certificates required for Eswatini and the tree canopy optional having not run for 3 years. The walk rating also needs to be looked at both in terms of rating and distances as the number of GPS gadgets used by the group always showed distances higher than stated.
Walking, Thunder and Wildlife
Another outstanding trip from Exodus. It is very cleverly consrtucted, gradually building to the climax in the Drakensberg mountains.
There were huge contrasts in scenery, passing through industrial and agricultural areas, the expanses of fairly dry national parks to the much greener hills and mountains of Eswatini, the lakes and Indian Ocean at St Lucia and the stunning mountains of the Drakensberg.
The wildlife watching was good, not as easy as places such as the Massai Mara in Kenya, but we did see the big 5 and a lot more besides; on all of the walks there was also the opportunity to see wildlife. If birding is your thing, this is a great trip especially at this time of year as the migrations are just starting. I particularly enjoyed the visit to Isandwala and Rorkes Drift, the scene of major battles during the Zulu Wars together with walking the Fugitive’s trail between the two.
Weather is never predictable and we went from close to 40C one day in the game reservers to weather and scenery that could have been Scotland the next – but it did give us a chance to make use of the open fires in our accommodation in the hills of Eswatini! (Later in the trip we also experienced the most spectacular thunderstorms I have ever seen – very impressive)
The Last four nights were spent in the Drakensberg, two at Thendele and 2 at Witsieshoek. The scenery was stunning and the walk up from Thendele to Witsieshoek showed a different aspect of it – more reminiscent of the Yorkshire Dales. The views from the top are wonderful but unfortunately, as is the way with mountains the weather, it closed in for the last day and the inside of a cloud looks pretty much the same wherever you are!
We were a group of 12, thrown together at the start of the trip, who rubbed along pretty well and had some great times together, so a big thankyou to all concerned.
Most Inspirational Moment
On a trip as varied as this there are numerous experience that are memorable. The time spent at Letaba Ranch, especially the early morning walk through the bush and the chance for some 'down time' watching the river is one. Although not part of the programme, experiencing the ferocity of a series of dramatic thunderstorms was quite something! However the stunning scenry of the Drakensberg mountains (they are so much more than the Amphitheatre) was the highlight for me.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Santjie was an excellent leader. Constantly cheerful, organised, knowledgable, thoughtful, a good sense of humour and with that special ability to get on with everybody. She worked incredibly hard to make sure that we had the best time possible. On the days when she cooked for the group she produced meals that were remarkably good on some very basic fsacilities. Perhaps the bast way of summarising how good she was is to say that if I would certainly be delighted to do another trip with her as leader.
Advice for Potential Travellers
This is a brilliant trip but you need to be prepared for a lot of early starts (often up by 5a.m.) and some long days - especially on the major driving days. Bring your sense of humour with you - especially if you are going to be there on the day England losese to South Africa in the Rugby World Cup!!
TZS walking and wildlife
Great trip saw lots of wildlife and great walking
Most Inspirational Moment
When we saw a family of lions feasting on a wilderbeast and we got so close to see them. Walking out of my tent one morning and seeing a family of elephants crossing the river so close amazing. The views in the mountains.
Thoughts on Group Leader
The leaders were fabulous
Advice for Potential Travellers
Be prepared for long bus journeys. It's cold when the sun goes down Bring binoculars Bring waterproofs it does rain sometimes in Africa It's Africa be prepared for anything to happen.
South Africa: Walking, Landscapes and Wildlife
This trip is a great way to See South Africa across a variety of landscapes, mainly through National Parks and game reserves. There is a range of environments from the Drakensberg mountains to the Indian Ocean beaches at St Lucia with spectacular walks. There are long drives, over 3000km in total, in a reasonably comfortable 14 passenger minibus. Travelling in May, the weather was dry, sunny and warm, except at night and the highest walks. The accommodation varied between basic and very comfortable, but always clean.
Most Inspirational Moment
Most of the scenery was striking but the Drakenberg mountains was probably the most spectacular, especially at sunrise. The walk from the historic battlefield at Isandlwana to Rorke's Drift was very atmospheric and fording Buffalo River was an certainly an experience in waist deep water (take a dry bag for valuables just in case). Although I have experienced better safari drives elsewhere in Africa, the night safari in the Kruger was memorable after seeing a pride of 8 lions on the move.
Thoughts on Group Leader
Sku and Morrison looked after us well with good knowledge of the areas and wildlife. They set a good pace on the walks for the group.
Advice for Potential Travellers
Make sure you are practised and fit for hill walking with a backpack as some walks are steep and most of the terrain is rocky, not prepared, paths. Good knees and ankles are essential! Walking poles can be helpful on some walks. The chain ladders on the final walk are not demanding unless you suffer from vertigo. There were laundry facilities at St Lucia. In May there were no or few insects although covering in the evening is still advisable, also for the cooler temperatures. Periodic stops at good supermarkets allowed replenishment of snacks or anything else. Food and drink at restaurants is very good and excellent value.
South Africa: landscapes, wildlife and battlefields
The Exodus holiday in South Africa was a wonderful introduction to African landscapes and wildlife. I have travelled widely in my life but with little experience of Africa. This holiday exceeded my expectations in two ways: the remarkable opportunities to see wildlife at close quarters in Kruger; the amazing landscapes of the Blyde River canyon, Swaziland and the Drakensurg Mountains. My enjoyment of the holiday had a lot to do with the way it was organised and led by the group leader. I have been left with many great memories.
Most Inspirational Moment
It was inspirational to be in Kruger National Park for a few days and to see the great variety of wildlife. I'm thankful that there remain a few places on earth that have this rich ecosystem. A three hour walk just after dawn was especially exciting - being aware that large animals were around us and that we were walking through their natural habitat, their world
Thoughts on Group Leader
The group leader, Rowan Moon, was excellent and I rate him highly. His enthusiasm and energy was infectious. He is natural leader and developed a close relationship with us as a group and as individuals. Organisation and time-keeping was excellent. He has developed a very good working relationship with Sofiso, the driver, and I felt safe and well-cared for at all times. He has remarkable wildlife-spotting skills and was able to detect the presence of animals (including many species of birds) and identify them accurately and instantly. He also has very good hiking skills and was confident at route-finding and care of people who struggled on more challenging parts of the mountain trails. The driver, Sofiso, was superb: very safe driving at all times on some challenging road surfaces, very well organised for luggage and food preparation and hard working & reliable in all ways. He is also friendly and good company. Betz, a trainee guide, worked hard assisting with food prepapration. A few times she gave information when we were touring in the minibus but I found it really hard to understand her because she has a very strong South African accent. This would have been a big concern for me if she had been our group leader.
Advice for Potential Travellers
My advice for travellers buying this holiday is to ensure that they are as fit as possible for the days of walking. And to be aware that while the trails are not over-long, nor are the altitude climbs significant (about 700m maximum), the routes are very rugged at times, there are parts when there are steep or near vertical sections on or near the route, there are a few quite tricky river crossings and there are very challenging metal ladders on the last two days (see my comments below). The guide Rowan, and the driver Sofiso, gave excellent support on these walks.
Start
Finish
Availability
Land Only Trip Price
Optional Single Supplement
Saturday Friday
26 Apr 2025 25 Apr 2025
Saturday Sunday
10 May 2025 11 May 2025
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 4 spaces left!
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 4573Now USD 4470Saving USD 103 Usually USD 4573Now Saving USD 103
Optional Single Supplement +USD 750
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
28 Jun 2025 27 Jun 2025
Saturday Sunday
12 Jul 2025 13 Jul 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price Usually USD 4348Now USD 4125Saving USD 223 Usually USD 4348Now Saving USD 223 Book with USD 1031 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 750
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
20 Sep 2025 19 Sep 2025
Saturday Sunday
04 Oct 2025 05 Oct 2025
Availability Guaranteed (On Request) Only 4 spaces left!
Land Only Trip Price USD 4350 Book with USD 1087 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 750
Availability
This departure is guaranteed to go ahead and can be booked, although some components will need to be requested. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
18 Oct 2025 17 Oct 2025
Saturday Sunday
01 Nov 2025 02 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 4350 Book with USD 1087 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 750
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
15 Nov 2025 14 Nov 2025
Saturday Sunday
29 Nov 2025 30 Nov 2025
Availability Guaranteed (Available)
Land Only Trip Price USD 4350 Book with USD 1087 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 750
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings and has reached the minimum number of passengers required to go ahead. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
10 Jan 2026 09 Jan 2026
Saturday Sunday
24 Jan 2026 25 Jan 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 4200 Book with USD 1050 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 825
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
14 Mar 2026 13 Mar 2026
Saturday Sunday
28 Mar 2026 29 Mar 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 4245 Book with USD 1061 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 825
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
18 Apr 2026 17 Apr 2026
Saturday Sunday
02 May 2026 03 May 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 4275 Book with USD 1068 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 825
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
22 Aug 2026 21 Aug 2026
Saturday Sunday
05 Sep 2026 06 Sep 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 4320 Book with USD 1080 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 825
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
19 Sep 2026 18 Sep 2026
Saturday Sunday
03 Oct 2026 04 Oct 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 4320 Book with USD 1080 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 825
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
10 Oct 2026 09 Oct 2026
Saturday Sunday
24 Oct 2026 25 Oct 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 4350 Book with USD 1087 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 825
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesSaturday Friday
14 Nov 2026 13 Nov 2026
Saturday Sunday
28 Nov 2026 29 Nov 2026
Availability Available
Land Only Trip Price USD 4350 Book with USD 1087 deposit Book with USD 500 deposit
Optional Single Supplement +USD 825
Availability
This departure is available for new bookings, and will be guaranteed to go ahead once it reaches minimum numbers. Please click Continue to proceed with booking or contact our Sales team for assistance.
View Trip NotesWould you like to include flights with your booking?
- ATOL protected
- Competitive flight prices
- Full refunds in the event of FCDO cancellations or major disruption at your UK departure airport
- Specialist support to rearrange flights and transfers
- Regional flights available from many UK airports
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Incl. taxes
Excl. flights