ICONIC AFRICAN SAFARI – South Africa, Botswana (Okavango delta & Victoria Falls)

This afternoon, arrive in Johannesburg, standing on the southern slopes of the witwatersrand, a rich gold-mining region that serves as South Africa’s industrial heartland. You will be welcomed upon arrival and escorted to your Hotel in Sandton. HOTEL

South Africa’s largest city remains its financial and commercial heart. It’s in this fast-paced metropolis that the country’s radical political and social transformation is most evident – this is the “Rainbow Nation” at work. It’s a heady experience, with contrasts of every kind around every single corner. Our tour sets off for Constitution Hill, home of South Africa’s architectural marvel, the Constitutional Court and site of Johannesburg’s Old Fort Prison (closed Sundays).
We meander through the newly renovated, quaint and quirky suburb of Melville with its vibey shops and trendy restaurants, and stop at Newtown Market, home of Johannesburg Market Theater. Museum Africa is Johannesburg’s premier cultural history museum, reminiscent of a 1950’s shebeen or pub, and it’s here you’ll really sense the soul of the inner city. SOWETO, acronym for South Western Township, is home to over 2 million people, who, despite living in crowded and chaotic conditions, have a tangible sense of community, one which ironically, the ordered, walled, elitist northern suburbs lack. Inside Soweto, we visit the Hector Pieterson Museum, and discover the cause of the tragic riots which led to his death; we pass Mandela House, and give you time to visit this fascinating little museum (own account). Our journey continues to Regina Mundi Church, site of many secret underground meetings of the then banned political parties. Finally, we take you past the largest stadium in Africa, Soccer City, host of the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final – this magnificent stadium is now nicknamed “The Calabash” for its resemblance to the African earthen pot. Soweto is unlike any suburb you’ve ever seen or been to, yet the history of struggle encapsulated here is a cornerstone of the South African story.

After an early breakfast, transfer to airport for morning flight to KMIA airport. Meeting assistance on arrival and transfers to the Kruger National Park and check in at the hotel. This evening, embark on your first game drive (time permitting) in an open safari vehicle. Accompanied by an experienced game ranger and tracker, bringing you face to face with Africa at its best.

Roam the reserve today in an open Landrover led by experienced rangers and trackers using radio alerts in search of elephant, leopard, cheetah, kudu, giraffe, Cape buffalo, hippo and other species. Start with a dawn safari then retire at the hotel for a soothing midday siesta or relax followed by late afternoon game drive. Private viewing and photo opportunities abound as huge herds of animals and hundreds of species of birds participate in this incredible procession of wildlife.

Fly across to Zimbabwe and Victoria Falls. Without doubt, the Victoria Falls constitute one of the most spectacular natural wonders of the world. Take the “flight of angels” by aircraft or helicopter. There is no other way to appreciate the full extent of the falls and the impressive complex of gorges below, cut by the river over the millennia. HOTEL

Tour the awesome Victoria Falls, the world’s largest sheet of falling water. Although its fame has spread far and wide, the site has been tastefully preserved with unobstructed views from many vantage points connected by paved paths. As you approach the falls, a great roar fills the air; rainbows appear and mist spews in all directions. Later visit a native craft village, depicting several traditional Zimbabwean villages and their various handicrafts. HOTEL

You will be transferred to Chobe National Park where the varied landscape and permanent waters ensure large concentrations of game and their predators. The riverine forests are rich in bird-life and renowned for the huge herds of elephant. LODGE

Safari activities at Chobe are diverse, exciting and are tailored to suit individual requirements. Game drives are conducted in open top 4×4 vehicles, normally in the early morning and late afternoon under the leadership of qualified Botswana guides. The Chobe flood plain is renowned for its concentrations of buffalo & elephant. The late evening in particular, provides spectacular viewing. All vehicles are equipped with two-way radio systems, thus facilitating optimum sightings of the major species. For the true lover of unspoiled Africa, these safaris will capture the magnificence and very real essence of Botswana’s natural landscapes and wildlife heritage. Game viewing and fishing from small boats, is a special Chobe experience. Additionally, there is a sunset cruise, which provides spectacular wildlife viewing and vistas of an African sunset.

Depending on charter flight schedule, you may be able to do a short morning game drive before taking your charter flight into the Delta to your Lodge or campsite. Game drives are conducted in open vehicles that offer unencumbered views. Game viewing with excellent numbers of predators and plains-game. The area houses one of the largest buffalo populations in the Okavango Delta. Evening game drives often extend into night to see the nocturnal animals. Also cruise by Mokoro exploring the rivulets and channels of the Delta.

Today offers the last opportunity to view game in untamed African bush. Later this evening, bid Africa farewell as you board your homeward flight.