Popular Routes Where Wildlife Viewing Is a Major Part of the Tour
Eswatini (formerly Swaziland) is rarely visited in isolation, but it is easily included in a South Africa tour. In fact, one of South Africa’s most classic routes goes through this little kingdom. As in South Africa, the roads and general infrastructure are good. The circuit described below can be done as a self-drive package or you can book a comparable group or custom tour, in which case all transport will be arranged by your tour operator.
Eswatini, Kruger & Zululand (1 to 2.5 weeks)
After arriving in Johannesburg’s O.R. Tambo International Airport, you head east for an amazing safari experience.
Destinations:
- Kruger National Park or Sabi Sands (2 to 5 days) will be your first stop. Kruger is South Africa’s largest park and the excellent road network and signage lends itself to a self-drive safari. The various private game reserves in Sabi Sands offer a more luxurious experience with guided activities and top-notch lodges.
- Malolotja Nature Reserve (1 to 2 days) is a great destination for nature lovers and avid hikers. You can stay in nearby Piggs Peak or camp inside the reserve for a more authentic experience. Adventure seekers can get their adrenaline rush on the zip line through the canopy.
- Hlane Royal National Park or Mkhaya Game Reserve (2 to 3 days) are great to see rhino up close. Hlane is an affordable, family-friendly park offering self-drive and guided safari options. Budget permitting, you could skip Hlane and head to Mkhaya Game Reserve instead. This is Eswatini’s top-notch safari destination, with an exclusive lodge and excellent guides. Wining and dining is all part of the experience and guests can share stories around the campfire at night.
- Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve (2 to 3 days) in South Africa’s KwaZulu Natal offers great wildlife viewing in a scenic setting of endless rolling hills. Rhino is the flagship species here, but all of the Big Five are present.
- Durban (1 to 4 days) is a port city with lots of character, good food and stunning beaches. You can opt to stay on a few days before flying back to Johannesburg for your connecting flight home.
Popular add-ons:
- Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary for biking, horse-riding and low-key walking safaris
- Cape Town for visiting Africa’s most beautiful city and taking a cable car up Table Mountain