Terrestrial Trio: South Africa

Explore Africa with the "Terrestrial Trio: South Africa" Tour

12 Days

A 12-day adventure through three terrestrial ecosystems of South Africa: forest, grassland, and desert. This tour kicks off in the grasslands of Kruger National Park, moves to the sands of the Kalahari Desert, and concludes in the forests of Knysna and Tsitsikamma along the Garden Route. Each day is packed with activities and luxurious stays to ensure you experience South Africa in comfort and style.

The Terrestrial Trio tour offers a thorough exploration of South Africa’s natural wonders, with each day providing unique activities and stays in luxury accommodations.

Trip Highlights

Singita Lebombo Lodge - Kruger

Kruger National Park (Grassland)

Singita Lebombo Lodge

Day 1: Arrive in Kruger National Park and settle into the luxurious Singita Lebombo Lodge. Begin your safari adventure with a late afternoon game drive, looking out for the Big Five. Travel Time: Fly to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, then a 2-hour drive to Singita Lebombo Lodge.

Day 2: Enjoy a full day of game drives and bush walks. Your expert guides will share insights into the grassland ecosystem and its inhabitants. Return to the lodge for an evening of fine dining under the stars.

The grasslands in Kruger National Park are primarily found in the central region of the park. This area is known for its nutrient-rich grasses that support large herds of herbivores such as zebra, buffalo, impala, giraffe, and wildebeest. Consequently, it also sustains a high population of lions, particularly around the Satara area

 

Singita Lebombo Lodge - Kruger

Kruger National Park

Singita Lebombo Lodge

Day 3: More wildlife exploration with morning and evening game drives. In between, relax at the lodge's spa or take a dip in the pool while overlooking the N'wanetsi River.

Day 4: A final game drive in the morning before checking out. Fly to Upington and prepare for the next leg of the journey to the Kalahari Desert. Travel Time: 2-hour drive to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, 2-hour flight to Upington.

!Xaus Lodge - Kalahari Desert

Kalahari Desert

!Xaus Lodge

Day 5: Arrive in Upington and transfer to the opulent !Xaus Lodge in the Kgalagadi Transfrontier Park. Unwind and prepare for an evening wildlife viewing around the waterholes.
Travel Time: 4-hour drive to !Xaus Lodge.

Day 6: Spend the day exploring the Kalahari Desert. Participate in morning and afternoon game drives, and learn about the unique ecosystem. In the evening, enjoy a traditional braai (barbecue) dinner.

The Kalahari Desert is home to meerkats, gemsbok, and if you're lucky, the Kalahari lion—talk about a "mane" attraction!

!Xaus Lodge - Kalahari Desert

Kalahari Desert

!Xaus Lodge

Day 7: Take a guided walk with Bushmen trackers, who will teach you about desert survival and the flora and fauna of this arid landscape. Return to the lodge for a memorable night of stargazing.

Day 8: One more game drive or bush walk before heading back to Upington to catch your flight to George for the Garden Route.
Travel Time: 4-hour drive to Upington, 2-hour flight to George.

Tsala Treetop Lodge - Garden Route

Garden Route (Forest)

Tsala Treetop Lodge

Day 9: Arrive in George and transfer to Tsala Treetop Lodge in Knysna. Spend the afternoon exploring the Knysna Lagoon and its surroundings. Travel Time: 1-hour drive to Knysna.

Day 10: Take a trip to Tsitsikamma National Park. Walk across the famous Storms River suspension bridge and enjoy the lush forest trails. Return to your hotel for some relaxation in the evening.

In the forests of Knysna and Tsitsikamma, you can spot the Knysna Turaco,  vervet monkeys, and even the Cape leopard.

Tsala Treetop Lodge - Garden Route

Garden Route

Tsala Treetop Lodge

Day 11: Continue exploring the Garden Route. Visit the Knysna Elephant Park or take a forest canopy tour. Finish your day with a sunset cruise on the Knysna Lagoon.

Day 12: A final day to enjoy the sights and sounds of the Garden Route before your departure. Check out from the hotel and return to George for your onward journey. Travel Time: 1-hour drive to George Airport.