The Ultimate 8-Day African Safari: Kruger, Victoria Falls & Chobe National Park

Welcome to South Africa! Sawabona! Molo! Dumela! Just a few ways to say “Hello” in three out of the 11 official languages in South Africa. Your adventure kicks off in the vibrant city of Johannesburg, where you will be greeted with a warm African welcome at the airport, before being transferred to your hotel for the night. Meet your fellow travelers and tour leader for a trip briefing, before enjoying an authentic South African dinner at a family-owned grill house, where the flavors of the nation's rich culinary heritage come to life.

Local tip: Don't miss the chance to taste boerewors, a mouthwatering spiced South African sausage or indulge in the delicate flavors of springbok carpaccio — a true local delicacy.

Begin your day with an early drive to the Greater Kruger National Park, where your arrival is perfectly timed for a welcome lunch at your luxurious retreat for the next three nights. Nestled within a private reserve, this lodge blends seamlessly with its untamed surroundings, offering an unparalleled connection to the wild. Each chalet boasts first-class amenities, including private en suites, indoor and outdoor showers, air-conditioning and a swimming pool for those refreshing dips.

Later in the afternoon, embark on your first 4x4 game drive in a neighboring reserve. Feel the exhilaration as you encounter majestic wildlife in their natural habitat, with the possibility of crossing paths with a few of our favorite African friends. As the day draws to a close, return to the lodge, where the sounds of the African night will lull you into a peaceful sleep.

Local tip: Unwind on one of the viewing decks to soak in the breathtaking panoramas of the Drakensberg Mountains — a towering range of rugged peaks and dramatic cliffs, and home to the world's most extensive and well-preserved rock art, created by the San people thousands of years ago.

Begin your day with an early rise, as you head off into the heart of the Kruger National Park. Upon entering this iconic wilderness, get ready for an unforgettable encounter with Africa’s famed "Big Five." Enjoy a packed breakfast at a picturesque picnic spot, surrounded by untouched beauty. Your day unfolds with an exclusive, full-day wildlife safari, where you'll stop at waterholes and prime viewing points to marvel at these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat. The park’s diverse landscape — ranging from savannah to mixed acacia woodlands, rocky hills and mopane forests — creates a breathtaking backdrop for your adventure.

As the sun sets, return to the lodge, where you can unwind and recount the day’s most extraordinary moments, reliving the magic of your safari experience.

Local tip: As one of Southern Africa’s largest and most renowned game reserves, Kruger National Park offers a sanctuary to more than just the "Big Five." Be captivated by the sight of over 500 bird species, 100 species of reptiles and 150 species of mammals, including the endangered African wild dog, majestic herbivores like hippos, zebras and giraffes, as well as a variety of antelope species.

Return to Kruger National Park for another exhilarating game drive, offering a chance to spot any wildlife that may have been missed from the day before. As the sun sets, your adventure concludes with an intimate dinner with the best views, from one of the lodge's viewing decks.

Enjoy your meal as you listen to the symphony of the bush, perhaps even catching the distant roar of a lion. Afterward, head off to enjoy a crackling bonfire under the canopy of stars.

Local tip: Take a moment to look up at the African night sky and count the shooting stars.

Rise early and head to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport, where you’ll bid farewell to South Africa before boarding a mid-morning flight to Livingstone, Zambia — your gateway to the breathtaking Victoria Falls.

Upon arrival, cross the iconic Victoria Falls Bridge into Zimbabwe and marvel at the magnificent cascades for the first time. Continue to your lodge, which offers unparalleled views of pristine wilderness and a waterhole which is visited by majestic elephants, buffalo, kudu and more. Spend the afternoon unwinding by the pool or enjoying wildlife sightings from any of the lodge’s viewing decks.

In the evening, you’ll embark on an intimate Sundowner River Cruise along the Zambezi River where you’ll glide through the shallow waters and islands just above the mighty falls. Enjoy canapés and sundowners prepared by your personal chef as the captain navigates the tranquil river, offering a truly unforgettable experience.

Local tip: Kick back in your lounge chair and spot crocodiles basking on the banks or find elephants and hippos in their natural habitat.

In the morning, you’ll have the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring grandeur of Victoria Falls — an unrivaled natural marvel that creates the largest sheet of falling water in the world when in full flow. Your guide will escort you through the park, unveiling the falls’ rich history and leading you to exclusive vantage points for breathtaking views.

Next you’ll make your way to Chobe National Park in Botswana where you’ll enjoy a leisurely afternoon in Kasane town, Alternatively, relax by the pool overlooking the Chobe River, enjoying another African sunset. If you’re in search of more adventure, consider an optional afternoon game drive in Chobe National Park.

Local tip: Look out for an encounter with wandering warthogs while in Kasane Town.

Start your day with an exciting game drive through Chobe National Park, Botswana's first designated national park and renowned for its impressive populations of elephants and buffalo. During your safari, witness these majestic creatures gather at the waterholes, before returning to the lodge for breakfast to fuel up for the next adventure.

In the afternoon, indulge in a scenic cruise along the enchanting Chobe River. This serene journey offers exceptional wildlife viewing, from saddle-billed storks and malachite kingfishers to fish eagles and colorful bee-eaters. Enjoy hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat, and witness large herds of elephants gracefully crossing the river.

It’s the last night of your African adventure so take a moment to reflect on what the animal kingdom has taught you, as you take in the breathtaking sunset over the river, making for a truly unforgettable experience.

Local tip: Be sure to truly soak up the elephant sightings because the Chobe River is one of the best places in Africa to see large herds of elephants. During the dry season, thousands of elephants migrate to the river for water, making it an incredible spot for witnessing these majestic creatures up close as they gather along the riverbanks.

Your African adventure comes to an end after breakfast, but the memories made will undoubtedly last a lifetime.

If you would like to spend more time in Chobe, or Victoria Falls, additional accommodation can be arranged.

Transfers to Kasane Airport, Livingstone Airport or Victoria Falls Airport can be arranged at an additional cost, for your trip back to Johannesburg, South Africa.

All packages are dependent on each traveler's needs and will be curated upon request.