Adventure Safari in the Drakensberg Mountains

Welcome to South Africa! Upon arrival, our team will greet you and provide a short transfer from the airport to the hotel. After you've settled in, you'll have the chance to meet your fellow travelers at an exciting welcome dinner at a local restaurant, where you can savor delicious African flavors.

• Transfer · King Shaka International Airport (DUR) → Durban

  TrovaTrip will provide 3 arrival transfers from King Shaka International Airport (DUR) to the hotel between 10:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M. Exact transfer times within this window will be determined closer to the trip departure, based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers arriving outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to meet the group at the hotel. Please note that most transfers on this trip will be via an overland truck with limited luggage space. Each person will have a locker sized 35cm square and 80cm deep. Please limit your luggage to one backpack and one day pack, weighing no more than 50 pounds total. Bring a flexible duffel bag and avoid hard-frame suitcases.

  45 min

Today, you'll leave your hotel bright and early to embark on an exciting journey to the foot of the Drakensberg Mountains! Traveling in a comfortable overland truck, you'll enjoy several hours on the road, with a thrilling stop for a zipline adventure along the way. Experience the rush as you zip from one platform to the next amidst breathtaking natural scenery. Afterwards, we'll resume our journey to North Drakensberg, pausing for a picnic lunch en route. Arriving at the campsite in the afternoon, you'll have time to set up camp before indulging in a delicious camp dinner. For the zipline activity, remember to wear closed-toe shoes, and consider bringing a jacket for the morning chill.

• Zipline Canopy Adventure

  Upon arrival, your adventure begins with a comprehensive safety briefing at the Canopy Adventure office. Here, expert guides will demonstrate the proper techniques for sliding on the cables and outline essential safety procedures. Once equipped with full-body harnesses, pulleys, climbing gear, and safety helmets, your group will be ready to embark on the tour! Transportation to the starting point of the canopy tour will be provided via an open vehicle. Please note that depending on group size, it may be necessary to divide into smaller groups, with one group starting first and the second group departing 30 minutes later. As you launch from the first platform, prepare to immerse yourself into a new world, sliding along steel cables to reach each successive viewpoint. Upon reaching each platform, take a moment to appreciate the breathtaking scenery while your guide shares fascinating insights about the surrounding ecology. Throughout the adventure, rest assured that your safety is our top priority. Each group is accompanied by a lead guide and safety guide, ensuring a secure and enjoyable experience. Stringent safety measures are in place to keep you connected to either the cable or platform at all times. The canopy tour typically lasts around 2 hours, encompassing 12 platforms and 10 exhilarating zipline slides, with the longest reaching over 600 feet! Please note that there is a weight limit of 265 pounds for this activity. After completing the canopy tour, indulge in a satisfying picnic lunch at a designated spot within the park before continuing your journey.

  10:00· 120 min· Karkloof
• Transfer · Durban → Karkloof

  After breakfast, check out of your hotel and hop on the overland truck to begin your journey. The first leg is a quick 2-hour transfer to the zipline park, with no scheduled stops. Restroom facilities will be available upon arrival at the park.

  shared · 120 min
• Transfer · Karkloof → Ampitheatre

  After the zipline activity, you will board the overland truck and resume your journey to North Drakensberg. The transfer lasts between 3-4 hours. Plan to arrive at your campsite in the afternoon, with time to set up your tent before dinner.

  240 min

Lace up your hiking boots for an unforgettable adventure into Lesotho! Departing from the campsite this morning, you'll embark on a scenic journey via overland truck into the mountains, crossing the border to reach the highest country in the world in total elevation. During the hike, keep your camera handy as you explore sandstone caves adorned with ancient paintings, immersing yourself in the rich history and culture of the region. Later, indulge in a traditional Lesotho lunch, enjoying a picnic in a local village and engaging with the warm and welcoming locals. After lunch, you'll return to the campsite, arriving in the late afternoon. For today's adventure, dress comfortably in sportswear and don't forget to pack a small backpack with water, snacks, and your passport for border crossings.

• Full Day Lesotho Hike and Tour

  As the sun rises, gather at the campsite after breakfast and hop aboard the overland truck. Journey through Qwa Qwa and ascend Monansto Pass before crossing into Lesotho, a separate country encircled by South Africa, where your mountain adventure begins. Embark on foot, immersing yourself in breathtaking landscapes, traversing rolling hills and verdant valleys. Discover ancient sandstone caves adorned with intriguing paintings, capturing their mystique through your lens. Continue along the trail, pausing for a delightful picnic beside meandering rivers, refreshing yourself with the cool mountain breeze. As the hike progresses, ascend to the lofty plateau, where panoramic vistas of the village and sprawling hills unfold before you. Please note the hiking length is flexible, with approximately 3 miles, depending on the trail conditions and the group's interest. Keep your passports handy for border crossings during this expedition. Return to the campsite is planned for late afternoon, leaving you with memories of a day filled with natural wonders and cultural discoveries.

  07:00· 540 min· Lesotho

Prepare for an unforgettable day as you embark on a challenging hike to the Tugela Falls. In the early morning, board the vehicle for a 4x4 transfer to the trailhead, where you'll ascend through a gully adorned with wildflowers. At the summit, enjoy a packed lunch with breathtaking views of Royal Natal Park, taking in the imposing drops of Tugela and Eland Falls. Descend via chain ladders and ropes before returning to the campsite in the late afternoon. Remember to wear hiking boots, warm and waterproof clothing, a sunhat, sunscreen, and bring a small backpack with water and hiking essentials.

• Tugela Falls Hike in Royal Natal National Park

  Your journey begins early in the morning from the campsite, following a hearty breakfast as you prepare for the day ahead. Hop aboard the 4x4 vehicle for a scenic transfer to the trailhead, nestled at an elevation of 8,200 feet. The trail stretches approximately 7.5 miles, leading you to the summit towering over 10,600 feet above sea level. Along the way, you'll traverse a stunning gully adorned with a vibrant tapestry of wildflowers, adding a splash of color to your ascent. Upon reaching the summit, indulge in a well-deserved packed lunch while soaking in the breathtaking vistas extending into the Royal Natal area. Witness the awe-inspiring sight of Tugela Waterfall cascading over the 3,200-foot basalt drop, its sheer grandeur leaving you speechless. Keep a lookout for the endangered bearded vulture soaring gracefully amidst the rugged cliffs. Your guide will lead you on a mesmerizing journey to the neighboring Elands Falls, where sightings of playful baboons are common. Descend with adrenaline coursing through your veins as you navigate two sets of chain ladders and ropes, each step bringing you closer to the valley below. As you make your return hike, be treated to panoramic views overlooking Qwa Qwa National Park and the sparkling waters of Fika Patso Dam. With every step, immerse yourself in the natural beauty that surrounds you, creating memories that will last a lifetime. Your arrival at the campsite is planned for the late afternoon.

  07:00· 540 min· Drakensberg

Prepare for a thrilling morning with a quad-biking adventure! After breakfast, pack your camping gear and hop on the overland truck for a brief transfer to the quad bike starting point. Ride through rivers and rocky trails, marveling at towering cliffs and cascading waterfalls. Enjoy a picnic lunch post-adventure and then continue with a transfer to your next destination, Waterhoek. For the quad bike ride, it is advisable to wear closed-toe shoes for your safety and comfort.

• Quad-Biking in the Drakensberg

  After breakfast, it's time to tear your tents down and pack up your camping gear. Next, hop aboard the overland truck for a quick 30-minute transfer to the starting point of your thrilling quad biking adventure! Upon arrival, you'll receive a safety briefing and expert tips to ensure a memorable yet secure quad biking experience. Led by your knowledgeable guide, you'll embark on an exhilarating ride passing under the awe-inspiring shadow of the amphitheater. Traverse diverse terrain including rocky paths, meandering rivers, lush forests, and breathtaking viewpoints showcasing imposing waterfalls. Keep an eye out, as you might even catch curious troops of baboons observing your adventure! Please note that this is a guided experience -- you'll follow your guide's lead, and cannot venture off on your own. The activity typically lasts 1.5-2 hours, with helmets provided for your safety. It's advisable to keep your belongings in the vehicle to prevent loss during the ride. Depending on group size, we may divide into smaller groups, with staggered start times to ensure everyone enjoys the adventure fully. After the adrenaline-fueled quad biking excursion, refuel with a delightful picnic lunch amidst the serenity of nature. Then, we'll resume our journey to Waterhoek.

  08:30· 120 min· Drakensberg
• Transfer · Drakensberg → Mooi River

  Once you have finished your lunch, you will board the overland truck and start your journey to Mooi River. The transfer lasts approximately 2 hours. Plan to arrive at your campsite in the afternoon, with time to set up your tent before dinner.

  120 min

It's time to continue our journey to Hluhluwe! The morning will be dedicated to travel, with a midday arrival directly at the gate of Hluhluwe Reserve, renowned as the oldest nature reserve in Africa. Upon arrival, brace yourself for an unforgettable experience as we embark on our first game drive, immersing ourselves in the mesmerizing world of African wildlife. After the safari adventure, we'll resume our transfer to the campsite, arriving in the late afternoon. Remember to wear neutral-colored clothing for the safari and refrain from feeding any wild animals.

• Sunset Safari Game Drive

  Upon arrival at the Hluhluwe gate, get ready for an unforgettable safari experience deep within the heart of the nature reserve! You'll hop aboard open safari vehicles, each accommodating a maximum of 9 travelers, ensuring an intimate and personalized adventure. To maximize your safari experience, the group will be divided into different vehicles. With keen eyes scanning the horizon, you'll eagerly anticipate sightings of the reserve's iconic wildlife – from majestic lions and elephants, to towering giraffes and elusive rhinos. Every turn of the safari vehicle unveils a new chapter in the story of African wilderness. After approximately 4 hours of immersing yourself in the sights and sounds of the park, encountering its diverse wildlife along the way, we'll head back to our campsite, located approximately 50 minutes away from the reserve. You'll have some free time to set up your tents before we gather for a delicious dinner.

  15:00· 240 min· Hluhluwe
• Transfer · Mooi River → Hluhluwe

  After breakfast, pack up your camping gear and hop on the overland truck for a 6-hour journey to Hluhluwe Reserve. We'll have restroom stops along the way and also enjoy a picnic lunch midday. Upon arrival, get ready for an exciting game drive through the reserve!

  300 min

Prepare for another thrilling day of safaris in Hluhluwe Reserve, because when it comes to wildlife, there's always more to discover! This time, we'll venture into the park during the morning, offering a unique perspective as animal behaviors vary from sunrise to sunset. As we traverse the park, keep your cameras ready to capture the magic of the early hours, where the bush comes alive with activity. Lunch will be a served picnic style during the safari. After an exhilarating morning, we'll return to the campsite in the afternoon, where you'll have some free time to relax and unwind. It's advisable to come prepared with a raincoat and warm layers to ensure your comfort during the morning safari.

• Sunrise Safari Game Drive

  Get ready for an early start as we embark on an exhilarating safari adventure in the heart of Hluhluwe Reserve. Boarding open safari vehicles, each accommodating a maximum of 9 travelers, ensures a personalized and immersive experience. To maximize your safari adventure, the group will be divided into different vehicles, allowing for optimal wildlife viewing opportunities. The sunrise and morning hours offer a unique perspective on animal behavior, promising sightings of different species engaged in their morning activities. Keep your senses sharp as we search for the famous lion, rhino, buffalo, and elephant – iconic symbols of African wildlife. Our safari will include a stop at the park entrance for a restroom break, providing a chance to refresh and stretch your legs before continuing our adventure. Lunch will be served picnic-style amidst the splendor of the reserve, adding to the excitement of our safari experience. Once you've had your fill of wildlife encounters, we'll return to the campsite, where the rest of the afternoon will be yours to relax and unwind.

  05:30· 240 min· Hluhluwe

This morning, enjoy a river cruise in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park. Keep your eyes peeled for the many pods of hippos floating in the waters, as you view the wetlands from the safety of the boat. Afterwards, you'll transfer back to Durban and relax, or explore the city before reconvening with the group for a final farewell dinner.

• iSimangaliso Wetland Park Hippo Cruise

  Home to over 800 hippos, the iSimangaliso Wetland Park is South Africa's first UNESCO-protected site. According to the world heritage convention, "the mosaic of landforms and habitat types creates breathtaking scenic vistas. The site contains critical habitats for a range of species from Africa's marine, wetland and savannah environments." Enjoy the sights from the comfort of the boat, as the massive hippos float in the river and estuary below.

  09:00· 120 min· iSimangaliso Wetland Park
• Transfer · St. Lucia → Durban

  After lunch, begin your transfer to Durban.

  165 min

All good things must come to an end, but only until our next adventure! Today, you will be transferred to the airport where you will bid farewell to South Africa and your travel buddies.

• Transfer · Durban → King Shaka International Airport (DUR)

  TrovaTrip will provide 3 departure transfers from the hotel to King Shaka International Airport (DUR) between 8:00 A.M. and 12:00 P.M. Exact transfer times within this window will be determined closer to the trip, departure based on provided traveler flight information. Travelers departing outside of the requested flight guidelines will need to make their own transfer arrangements to the airport.

  45 min