Thrill to the adventure of a big game safari on this journey to spectacular South Africa.
Experience the excitement as you enter the world of the Big Five (lion, leopard, elephant, rhino and buffalo), and end your days of discovery pampered in luxury accommodations on private game reserves. Stroll alongside an elephant … observe rare cheetahs in a natural setting … spot a “hippo highway” on safari … detect a slinking predator in the grass, eyeing a grazing herd of buffalo.
Along the way learn about the culture and history of South Africa, visiting the township that played a key role in resisting apartheid and meeting with locals who share their stories firsthand. This adventure will open your mind and heart to both the animal kingdom in all its grandeur, as well as humanity in all its challenges and heroism. 
July 12: Depart USA
Depart the U.S. and arrive in Johannesburg the following day.
July 13: Johannesburg
Upon arrival at Johannesburg airport, you will be greeted by our local tour manager and transferred to the Westcliff Hotel. Located in Johannesburg’s poshest enclave, the Westcliff hotel provides breathtaking views of the Magaliesberg Hills and the city zoo just below. Gather this evening for a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.
Westcliff Hotel (D)
July 14: Johannesburg
This morning delve into the troubled history of the country during a tour of Soweto, a township that played a key role in lifting the apartheid system. Learn about Hector Peterson, a boy of 12, who lost his life during the Soweto Uprising. Visit the Mandela Squatter Camp and a local school where children welcome you to their world. This afternoon, head to an elephant sanctuary for a once-in-a-lifetime chance to get to know these magnificent creatures. Sanctuary staff will guide you in activities including touching, feeding, and maybe even riding!
Westcliff Hotel (D)
July 15: Panorama Route - Kapama
Depart your hotel and begin a leisurely journey toward the “roof” of South Africa. As you travel the Panorama Route, winding through the rugged mountain range of the Northern Drakensberg (“Dragon Mountains”), admire the stunning views of the plains stretching far below. Blyde’s River Canyon boasts a 33-kilometer-long gorge with swirling rock formations shaped millions of years ago by erosion. Have your camera ready – you’ll be captivated by this other-worldly terrain! Visit historic Pilgrim’s Rest, a tiny town that swelled in population when gold was discovered there in 1873, only to be virtually abandoned 100 years later. Check into your room at Casa do Sol, a deluxe hideaway of tranquil pools and abundant flower gardens. Several breeds of antelope and other sweet-natured game roam free on the reserve. Casa do Sol (B,L,D)
July 16: Sudwala Caves / Kapama Private Game Reserve
Visit the Sudwala Caves where colorful stalagmites and stalactites decorate this underworld of hidden chambers and passageways. Poke around for vanished Kruger treasure, and marvel at “Owen Hall” – an enormous circular chamber where concerts are sometimes staged. Afterwards, you will travel to the lodge at the Kapama Private Game Reserve, your oasis for the next three nights, located on a tranquil lake and featuring luxurious, air-conditioned en-suite thatched chalets.
Kapama Lodge (B,L,D)
July 17: Kapama Private Game Reserve
This morning visit the Hoedspruit Centre for Endangered Species, on the Kapama Reserve grounds. World-famous for its efforts to protect the cheetah from extinction, the Centre provides visitors the chance to see several endangered species up close. Rare African vultures are encouraged to feed at the center, enticed by carcasses set out by staff. You may encounter rhinos and wild dogs at the Centre in addition to the rare king cheetah. Return to the hotel for afternoon game viewing in the company of your expert ranger.
Kapama Lodge (B,L,D)
July 18: Kapama Private Game Reserve
Begin the day letting the wind drift you towards the Drakensberg Mountains—in a hot air balloon! Cross the game reserve high above the ground and have fun spotting game from the air. In the afternoon meet children who are being raised with affection and dedication at the Thulumahasha Children’s Home. This rural retreat offers homeless youngsters a second chance, and Grandtravelers will have the opportunity to meet the residents and hear their stories of resilience and hope. On your last evening at Kapama, enjoy dinner around a camp fire and share your game sightings with fellow Grandtravelers.
Kapama Lodge (B,L,D)
July 19: Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Today embark on a game-watching adventure from the comfort of the Bush Lodge, a luxurious oasis nestled in the 163,000-acre Sabi Sand Reserve and featuring uncompromisingly high standards of service. Sabi Sands is considered the most game-rich area of the country, and it links seamlessly with Kruger National Park, offering you access to wildlife roaming an area the size of Massachusetts. Expert rangers will lead you on safaris in open-topped Range Rovers.
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge (B,L,D)
July 20: Sabi Sands Game Reserve
Wake up before first light with a breakfast of fresh baked muffins and coffee or tea before commencing your daybreak safari. During today’s game drive your guide may explain the wonders of giraffe mating habits or the sleek aerodynamics of the elusive cheetah. Later embark on an evening safari, and you may be treated to the sight of lions preparing for the evening hunt. Look for the bright red eyes of bushbabies, nocturnal primates that feed on insects and fruits.
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge (B,L,D)
July 21: Sabi Sands/Johannesburg
After the morning game activity and breakfast, head to the Sabi Airstrip for your return flight to Johannesburg. You will transfer to evening flights back to the United States. All too soon you will say goodbye to your new friends, but the richness and exhilaration of your recent days will create a lifetime of memories!
Sabi Sabi Bush Lodge (B)
July 22: Depart Johannesburg/Arrive in USA 
| Cost for Land Arrangements | Rates are per person. See Terms and Conditions.
| Adult double or triple
| $6,995 | Child double
| $6,995 | | Child triple (sharing with 2 adults) | $5,480 | Roundtrip airfare from home city to Johannesberg and return is not included. GRANDTRAVEL is happy to assist in making your air travel arrangements.
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