Explore Kruger & Victoria Falls

Arrive in Johannesburg, where you’ll meet the rest of your group over a traditional braai (South African barbecue) welcome dinner.

Drive the stunning Panorama Route, with its mountain vistas, plunging waterfalls and Blyde River Canyon views to Kruger National park, where you’ll head off in search of the Big Five. Gaze across the wild African bush and keep a look out for elephant, lion, buffalo, leopard and rhino in one of Africa’s oldest and most diverse national parks. You’ll be in an open vehicle, allowing for better views and cooler temperatures when the sun’s at its highest. But it’s not all about the animals – look out for the strange looking baobab trees and the intriguing sausage tree, so-called because it looks like sausages hang from its branches.

Explore the natural wonders of Karongwe Private Nature Reserve with a researcher from the Endangered Wildlife Trust’s Carnivore Conservation Programme. Keep your eyes peeled for wild dog, brown hyena, wildebeest and kudu, among many others. With over 365 species of bird, it’s a twitcher’s paradise here too – look out for kori bustards, bateleur eagles and bearded woodpeckers. And of course the quintessential safari experience – watch the orange glow of the sunset from a scenic vantage point, and sip on a refreshing sundowner or two.

After a final morning game drive, return to Johannesburg where you’ll enjoy a tasty Afrikaans dinner at your guesthouse.

Fly on to Zimbabwe and admire the mighty Victoria Falls on a guided tour. Feel the spray of the Mosi-oa-Tunya, the smoke that thunders, and marvel at this awe-inspiring natural wonder. There’s plenty to do here, from bungee jumping to white water rafting. But for the ultimate view of Victoria Falls, take to the skies on a thrilling helicopter ride over the spray, keeping a look out for elephants grazing below. (Optional activity, at extra cost) You’ll also gain an insight into traditional life in Zimbabwe as you join a local family for dinner, a National Geographic exclusive activity.