South Africa, Lesotho & Eswatini Private Adventure Tour
KwaZulu-Natal Culture & Epic Kruger Safari
Immerse yourself in the majesty of three African kingdoms: South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal and its Zulu people, the mountainous Kingdom of Lesotho, and the hikers paradise Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). Relish unparalleled wildlife experiences on safari walks, game drives, and sunset cruises. Hike up to the Amphitheatre in the UNESCO-protected Drakensberg region. Learn about apartheid in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal, and venture into the spectacular landscapes of Eswatini. From the thrills of spotting elephants in the wilds of Kruger National Park to spectacular views from the highest pub in Africa, this once-in-a-lifetime active adventure guarantees unforgettable experiences!
Immerse yourself in the majesty of three African kingdoms: South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal and its Zulu people, the mountainous Kingdom of Lesotho, and the hikers paradise Kingdom of Eswatini (formerly Swaziland). Relish unparalleled wildlife experiences on safari walks, game drives, and sunset cruises. Hike up to the Amphitheatre in the UNESCO-protected Drakensberg region. Learn about apartheid in Durban and KwaZulu-Natal, and venture into the spectacular landscapes of Eswatini. From the thrills of spotting elephants in the wilds of Kruger National Park to spectacular views from the highest pub in Africa, this once-in-a-lifetime active adventure guarantees unforgettable experiences!
Spot the Big Five and more on safaris in Kruger National Park and Mkuze Game Reserve
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Interact with local artists, rural Zulu, and indigenous Basotho people to enrich cultural understanding
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Revel in African hospitality at comfortable hotels and remote mountain lodges
Welcome to Africa! Upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your flight's arrival time, you may get an afternoon tour of Soweto. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with the group.
Accommodation: African Rock Hotel
Meals: Lunch, Dinner
Take a Nature Hike en Route to Northern Drakensberg
Day 2
After breakfast, transfer to Northern Drakensberg, in KwaZulu-Natal province. En route, stop for lunch at a historical property dating back to the years preceding the First Boer War. After lunch, take an informative guided hike and learn about the rich history of the area, as well as the indigenous cultures of the Zulu and Sotho communities. This is a great bird-watching and game-viewing opportunity, as there are loads of interesting fauna and flora on certain routes. Then continue to the majestic Northern Drakensberg region, your home for two nights.
Hike to the Amphitheatre in Royal Natal National Park
Day 3
A scenic morning drive takes you to the start of today's hike in stunning Royal Natal National Park. The initial leg is the most strenuous (but doable for all fitness levels), then levels out onto an easy contour path. Two ladders span the last 100 feet of the cliff; alternatively, you can ascend via the gully. The reward: standing atop the famous Amphitheatre — on the roof of South Africa! After exploring the summit, ascend Beacon Buttress for the return trip via the gully or ladders and the easy path downhill.
Activity: 6-8 hours/9 miles hiking, 1,800 ' elevation gain
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Head to Southern Drakensberg
Day 4
Depart after breakfast for another scenic drive, this time to Underberg, in the Southern Drakensberg. On the way, stop for lunch and visit the internationally renowned Ardmore Ceramic Studio, founded in 1985 by Zimbabwean-born ceramic artist Fee Halsted. Originally established in the Drakensberg foothills, today the bustling studio and gallery sits in the picturesque Caversham Valley in South Africa's Natal Midlands. Here you meet the local artists, some of whose work has commissioned by the likes of Hermes and Queen Elizabeth II.
Accommodation: Premier Resort Sani Pass Accommodation: Moorcraft Manor Boutique Country Hotel
Transportation: 4-hour private transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Tour the Kingdom of Lesotho
Day 5
Relish a full-day tour of Lesotho, a high-altitude, landlocked kingdom crisscrossed by a network of rivers and mountain ranges, making for breathtaking scenery. Begin today with a 4x4 drive up the Sani Pass (9,436'), atop which you enjoy lunch at the highest pub in Africa — the Sani Mountain Lodge — with incredible views over KwaZulu-Natal. After lunch, continue to Skeering, a living village of Basotho, a Bantu ethnic group that has inhabited this region since the fifth century, where your experienced mountain guide discusses Lesotho and its people.
Accommodation: Premier Resort Sani Pass Accommodation: Moorcraft Manor Boutique Country Hotel
Activity: Full day cultural touring
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Durban
Day 6
Drive through the scenic Natal Midlands this morning bound for Durban. Upon arrival, stroll up historical Florida Road and stop for lunch of a local specialty, "bunny chow" — street food that harks back to the Indian indentured laborers from the 19th century. Along the Durban promenade, bordering the warm Indian Ocean, take a leisurely cycle along the beachfront to iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium, which you ascend by funicular for incredible views. Stop at the Kwa Muhle Museum for insight into Durban's history of apartheid before enjoying dinner on your own.
Accommodation: Protea Hotel Umhlanga
Activity: 1 hour/2 miles cycling
Transportation: 3-hour private transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Enter the Kingdom of the Zulu
Day 7
Head to northern KwaZulu-Natal, the Kingdom of the Zulu, where you'll enjoy an immersive lunch in a Lebombo Mountains community and a cultural walk with remarkable views. Your visit will include time with a sangoma, a traditional Zulu healer and respected elder skilled in a variety of areas including divination, medicinal herbs, and interpreting dreams. Have a reading done by the sangoma if you wish (readings to be paid directly).
Accommodation: Ghost Mountain Inn
Activity: Traditional lunch, 1-2 hours walking
Transportation: 3.5-hours private transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Hike Ghost Mountain & Spot Wildlife in Mkuze Game Reserve
Day 8
Set out at dawn to hike the eastern side of sacred Ghost Mountain (Tshaneni). Take in expansive views over the battleground where Zulu clans clashed in 1884. Return to the inn for breakfast, then drive to Mkuze Game Reserve and seek out resident wildlife including elephant, giraffe, white rhino, and beautiful birdlife. The group will be split in two for alternating ranger-led Fig Forest walks—special-permission walks arranged exclusively for your group. For groups larger than four: while one group walks, the other will look for wildlife from the hide and game drive.
Accommodation: Ghost Mountain Inn
Activity: 3 hours/3-4 miles hiking, 2 hours walking
Transportation: 3-hour cruise, game drive in 4x4 vehicle
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Lake Jozini & the Kingdom of Eswatini
Day 9
Rise and shine for a morning cruise on Lake Jozini, for a chance to spot elephant, rhino, hippo, crocodile, and birds. Continue on to the landlocked Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland), rife with beautiful mountain scenery, game reserves, lush valleys, misty mountains, ancient rock formations, and plunging waterfalls. In the lower reaches of the country are unexpected expanses of sugar-cane farms and typical African bush. Explore Gobholo Cave, possibly the largest granite cave in the world. Headlamps, helmets, and overalls will be provided to make your exploration safe and enjoyable. Expect belly crawls, crouches, and rock scrambles throughout your caving adventure. Unwind at a nearby hot springs for a soak and a casual dinner.
Activity: 2-hour wildlife cruise, 45-minute easy walk to caves, 2-hour caving experience
Transportation: 3-hour private transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Sibebe Rock & Safari in Kruger National Park
Day 10
Gear up for a morning hike to the impressive Sibebe Rock, a 3-billion year old geologic wonder. Expect incredibly beautiful vistas, waterfalls, and cave paintings. Orchids and wildflowers usually carpet the grasslands and for birders, catching a glimpse of rare blue swallows is a highlight. Drive to a private concession within the southern part of Kruger National Park, an enormous wilderness area. The topography, vegetation, and game vary dramatically from south to north in the park. The park's southern part sees the most rainfall and denser animal numbers. Set out for an afternoon game drive. Your guide will seek out the impressive Big Five - leopard, lion, rhino, elephant, and buffalo - plus antelope and other exciting game, as well as an incredible 420 species of bird.
Another full-day safari in Kruger. Expert guides and trackers share their knowledge of these animals with you on today's safari adventure, which comprises morning and afternoon game drives. Hear the whooping of hyenas, the reverberating roar of a lion, the loud grunting of hippos, the majestic trumpeting of elephants, or the peaceful call of the fish eagle...this is African wildlife at its finest!
After a final morning game drive and breakfast, say farewell to the bush and drive to Johannesburg's OR Tambo International Airport for your outbound flight home. Enjoy your wonderful memories of this MT Sobek safari!
This adventure gives you access to hidden gems in South Africa's KwaZulu-Natal, the Kingdom of Lesotho, and the Kingdom of Eswatini (Swaziland).
Experience unforgettable wildlife encounters, deep cultural immersion, plus excellent hiking in the spectacular Drakensburg range.
Consistent with our 55-year history on the continent our local team provides insightful context and authentic interactions in each of the three kingdoms.
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Carl N.
Carl guides extensively throughout South Africa, working in game reserves and leading wildlife experiences for guests from around the world. He also runs volunteer-based programs focused on rural development and elevation of previously disadvantaged communities around South Africa. Carl is a passionate South African and feels blessed to spend time leading experiences focused on the country's natural beauty and wonderfully diverse culture.
Graham B.
Graham grew up living in England, India and Mozambique, and spent much of his childhood traveling the world with his family. After completing his military service, he joined South African Airways as a way to nurture his love of traveling. He spent 16 years flying to exotic and remote places before turning in his wings and returning to his feet to become a guide. His lifelong passion for tourism shines through with his 32 years of experience and reflects in his knowledge of South African history and culture.
Piet N.
Piet is a born explorer and has always been a lover of nature and the outdoors. Growing up in South Africa, he was always fascinated with the history and cultures around him, and in 2010 began his career as a guide. He has enjoyed sharing his local knowledge with travelers from around the world and learning about their own traditions. Piet is a great storyteller and will entertain you with the facts and lore of his country.
Welcome to Africa! Upon arrival at OR Tambo International Airport, meet your guide and transfer to the hotel. Depending on your flight\'s arrival time, you may get an afternoon tour of Soweto. This evening, enjoy a welcome dinner with the group.
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A scenic morning drive takes you to the start of today\'s hike in stunning Royal Natal National Park. The initial leg is the most strenuous (but doable for all fitness levels), then levels out onto an easy contour path. Two ladders span the last 100 feet of the cliff; alternatively, you can ascend via the gully. The reward: standing atop the famous Amphitheatre — on the roof of South Africa! After exploring the summit, ascend Beacon Buttress for the return trip via the gully or ladders and the easy path downhill.
Depart after breakfast for another scenic drive, this time to Underberg, in the Southern Drakensberg. On the way, stop for lunch and visit the internationally renowned Ardmore Ceramic Studio, founded in 1985 by Zimbabwean-born ceramic artist Fee Halsted. Originally established in the Drakensberg foothills, today the bustling studio and gallery sits in the picturesque Caversham Valley in South Africa\'s Natal Midlands. Here you meet the local artists, some of whose work has commissioned by the likes of Hermes and Queen Elizabeth II.
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Relish a full-day tour of Lesotho, a high-altitude, landlocked kingdom crisscrossed by a network of rivers and mountain ranges, making for breathtaking scenery. Begin today with a 4x4 drive up the Sani Pass (9,436\'), atop which you enjoy lunch at the highest pub in Africa — the Sani Mountain Lodge — with incredible views over KwaZulu-Natal. After lunch, continue to Skeering, a living village of Basotho, a Bantu ethnic group that has inhabited this region since the fifth century, where your experienced mountain guide discusses Lesotho and its people.
Drive through the scenic Natal Midlands this morning bound for Durban. Upon arrival, stroll up historical Florida Road and stop for lunch of a local specialty, "bunny chow" — street food that harks back to the Indian indentured laborers from the 19th century. Along the Durban promenade, bordering the warm Indian Ocean, take a leisurely cycle along the beachfront to iconic Moses Mabhida Stadium, which you ascend by funicular for incredible views. Stop at the Kwa Muhle Museum for insight into Durban\'s history of apartheid before enjoying dinner on your own.
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Gear up for a morning hike to the impressive Sibebe Rock, a 3-billion year old geologic wonder. Expect incredibly beautiful vistas, waterfalls, and cave paintings. Orchids and wildflowers usually carpet the grasslands and for birders, catching a glimpse of rare blue swallows is a highlight. Drive to a private concession within the southern part of Kruger National Park, an enormous wilderness area. The topography, vegetation, and game vary dramatically from south to north in the park. The park\'s southern part sees the most rainfall and denser animal numbers. Set out for an afternoon game drive. Your guide will seek out the impressive Big Five - leopard, lion, rhino, elephant, and buffalo - plus antelope and other exciting game, as well as an incredible 420 species of bird.
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Another full-day safari in Kruger. Expert guides and trackers share their knowledge of these animals with you on today\'s safari adventure, which comprises morning and afternoon game drives. Hear the whooping of hyenas, the reverberating roar of a lion, the loud grunting of hippos, the majestic trumpeting of elephants, or the peaceful call of the fish eagle...this is African wildlife at its finest!
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After a final morning game drive and breakfast, say farewell to the bush and drive to Johannesburg\'s OR Tambo International Airport for your outbound flight home. Enjoy your wonderful memories of this MT Sobek safari!
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[ActivityHighlight] => This trip includes 4X4 safaris, a 3 hour scenic cycling tour, and guided nature walks of varied length. The 6-8 hour hike to the top of Amphitheatre includes 1,800 feet of elevation gain. Activities are optional, and no previous experience is required.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. This trip includes 4X4 safaris, a 3 hour scenic cycling tour, and guided nature walks of varied length. The 6-8 hour hike to the top of Amphitheatre includes 1,800 feet of elevation gain. Activities are optional, and no previous experience is required. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 3
6-8 hours/9 miles hiking, 1,800 ' elevation gain
Day 5
Full day cultural touring
Day 6
1 hour/2 miles cycling
Day 7
Traditional lunch, 1-2 hours walking
Day 8
3 hours/3-4 miles hiking, 2 hours walking
Day 9
2-hour wildlife cruise, 45-minute easy walk to caves, 2-hour caving experience
Day 10
Morning hike, afternoon game drive
Day 11
Two game drives
Day 12
Game drive
*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.
Accommodations
From historical hotels to country-side inns, this trip includes some of the best accommodations in the Three Kingdoms.
Named after the infamous Cannibal Cavern, this family-run resort is nestled in the foothills of the Northern Drakensberg, a place of captivating beauty, and surrounded by lush indigenous forests and clear streams. Once a humble rustic homestead, today the Cavern is a lovely resort with rooms set amidst manicured gardens and a spa offering myriad soothing treatments.
At the foot of legendary Ghost Mountain lies this country-style inn. This welcoming, four-star family hotel and spa is central to many Zululand and coastal reserves. Shrouded in mystery and folklore, the historical mountain stands sentry over the hotel's open-plan central areas. Light, airy guest spaces maximize the scenic environs, and rooms have furnished patios from which to experience the rhythm of Africa.
Get the full Northern Drakensberg experience at Montusi Mountain Lodge, dedicated to the conservation of the area and its wildlife. Montusi boasts the privilege of space, with 16 suites set in open gardens, each with spectacular views of the famous Amphitheatre escarpment and surrounding mountains. Local, award-winning cuisine is served in the intimate restaurant.
This stunning resort in the Southern Drakensberg, nestled at the foot of Sani Pass, offers guests incredibly scenic accommodation. Contemporary, spacious rooms provide breathtaking mountain views, as does the restaurant, which serves a breakfast buffet, a midday "terrace menu," and themed dinners. Family-friendly activities including hiking, biking, 4x4 excursions, and pony rides for kids.
Nestled within the idyllic garden enclave of the Summerfield Botanical Garden, the eponymous resort is a luxurious boutique hotel with an environment that captures the proud traditions and gentle charm of the Kingdom of Swaziland. Creatively designed and artistically decorated accommodations boast garden or mountain vistas, the restaurant offers elegant fine dining and informal alfresco meals, and the hospitality is world-class.
A lovely boutique hotel with just 11 rooms awaits you in a quiet suburb close to Johannesburg International Airport. Stylish interiors include amenities such as air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, and satellite TV. Guests receive a complimentary 15-minute shoulder massage to unwind after long flights, and a swimming pool and spa offer further relaxation. The Blue Hippo Restaurant features African fusion cuisine with indoor and patio seating, or room service.
Nestled at the foot of Africa's highest mountain range, Moorcraft Manor comprises 12 delightful rooms. Each room has a private verandah, stunning views of the grasslands and Drakensberg Mountains, and access to the lush surrounding gardens. Rooms include luxury bedding, Wi-Fi, DSTV, and complimentary sherry. The restaurant features locally sourced ingredients on a seasonal menu and a selection of South African wines for pairing.
With spectacular views overlooking the KwaZulu-Natal coast, Protea Hotel uMhlanga is a modern property just a few minutes away from the beach. Its 260 guest rooms have air-conditioning, minibar, complimentary Wi-Fi and stylish furnishings. Most have partial sea views. When you are not out exploring, there is a plunge pool and fitness center to entice you, and an onsite restaurant serving delicious fare.
Days spent on safari in Kruger National Park are followed by nights in six traditional thatched-roof rooms outfitted with designer fabrics and splashes of bright color. Each rondavel is air-conditioned and has folding glass doors allowing you to experience the wilderness. There is an ensuite bath and separate stone bath and outdoor shower. The swimming pool overlooks the river and any wildlife passing through.
Set on a private concession within Kruger National Park, Hamiltons features six elegant, tented suites with teak wood floors, overlooking the river. In classic safari style, rooms are decorated with steamer trunks and brass fittings. Each tent has a lounge with leather couch and mini bar as well as a private plunge pool on the surrounding teak deck. En suite baths have freestanding bathtubs and rain showers with a view.
Weather
Expect temperatures in the various regions between 70-80°F during the day and 50-60°F in the evenings.
Jun
Sep
Durban
High
Low
High
Low
Durban
74
52
76
60
Johannesburg
High
Low
High
Low
Johannesburg
64
40
76
49
Kruger National Park
High
Low
High
Low
Kruger National Park
77
48
84
57
FAQs
Who will meet me on arrival?
Our representative will meet you in the arrivals hall after you have proceeded immigration, luggage collection and customs on your own. Look for your MT Sobek representative holding a signboard bearing your name(s).
How safe is South Africa?
The majority of South Africa is safe, provided that you take the safety precautions you would in all major countries and big cities.
When is the best time to travel to South Africa?
Every season in South Africa has something special to offer and makes South Africa one of the few year round destinations in the world.
How did the "Big Five" get their name?
The "Big Five" are leopard, lion, elephant, rhino and buffalo. The term is a reference from colonial trophy hunting. Hunters ranked African animals as to how dangerous they were to hunt.
Do I need vaccinations or malaria tablets?
We recommend you speak to your doctor about vaccinations and malaria tablets well in advance of your safari. At present, certain areas of South Africa are affected by malaria.
Do you require a visa for South Africa?
If you are a U.S. citizen, you do not need a visa to enter South Africa.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
This trip is great for all ages and the standard minimum age is 12.
"Great experience every time with some of the most knowledgeable guides in their fields. We always come home with wonderful memories of the people we meet and things we see."
Bob J. MT Sobek Guest
"We have traveled throughout the world, but never experienced a level of service and attention to detail as we did with MT Sobek."