Kruger & Matobo Rhino Encounter - 7 Days
Kruger & Matobo Rhino Encounter - 7 Days
Kruger & Matobo Rhino Encounter - 7 Days
7 Days Starting in Pretoria and ending in Victoria Falls
Visiting: Pretoria, Kruger National Park, Bulawayo, Matobo N.P., Victoria Falls
Tour operator:
Tour code:
2825/KMRE
Group size:
2 - 12
Age range:
Minimum age 8
Trip Styles:
Tour Overview
SMALL GROUP ACCOMMODATED SAFARI: Discover the beautiful landscapes, rich culture and diverse wildlife of South Africa and Zimbabwe on this 7-day small group safari. Go in search of the Big Five in Kruger National Park and encounter rhinos on a wilderness walk in Matobo National Park. Cruise the Zambezi River on the lookout for hippos and crocodiles, and marvel at the thundering Victoria Falls.
Highlights
Itinerary
Day 1: Pretoria
Location: Pretoria
Meals Included: Dinner
Pretoria - Hoedspruit. Early this morning we depart from Pretoria, South Africa's administrative city and drive across the picturesque Mpumalanga province, relishing in the breath-taking mountain vistas. A stop at the Blyde River Canyon offers us the chance to admire the peculiar Three Rondavels rock formations perched at the canyon's edge and enjoy the picturesque views. After lunch we continue the journey to our lodge, situated 38km from Kruger National Park.
Please Note: You will need to arrive in Pretoria at least one night before your tour. There will be a pre-departure meeting at 18:00 hrs on the evening prior to departure and the tour departs at 07:00 hrs on day 1. Refer to the Joining Instructions in our Trip Notes for more information. We can book an airport transfer from Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport and Pretoria pre-tour accommodation upon request.
Day 2: Kruger National Park
Location: Kruger National Park
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Early this morning we board 4x4 game viewing vehicles and head into Kruger National Park with a professional guide. Kruger is home to all of the Big Five (lion, elephant, rhino, leopard, buffalo) and is an African stronghold for the white rhino and the critically endangered black rhino. We game drive in the morning and afternoon with a break during the middle of the day at a rest camp, when it is hottest and wildlife is usually less active. After an exhilarating day of wildlife spotting we leave the park and return to our accommodation for dinner and overnight.
Day 3: Pretoria
Location: Pretoria
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Hoedspruit - Polokwane. After breakfast we leave the Kruger area and travel across undulating countryside to the northern town of Polokwane. This scenic journey takes us over some beautiful mountain passes and through verdant citrus plantations nestled along the valleys of the Limpopo Province.
Arriving into Polokwane we meet our guide and other members of the group at the lodge before heading off to visit an open-air museum and learn about the local Bakone culture. The museum offers insights into the traditional practices of the Bakone tribe, unveiling their historical methods of fire-making, mielie meal preparation, and the distinctive decorations that grace their dwellings.
Please note: This tour departs Pretoria at 10am and we strongly recommend that you plan to arrive the day before departure to overcome any jetlag and acclimatise to Africa. We can book Johannesburg (JNB) airport transfers and pre tour accommodation in Pretoria upon request.
Day 4: Bulawayo
Location: Bulawayo
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Polokwane - Bulawayo (Zimbabwe). After breakfast we traverse the South African-Zimbabwean border at Beitbridge and travel on to Bulawayo, a city characterized by broad tree-lined avenues and expansive open spaces. The surrounding area boasts historical, geological, and natural attractions, including the renowned Matobo National Park. Our accommodation is set in a peaceful garden setting on the outskirts of Bulawayo.
Day 5: Matobo N.P.
Location: Matobo N.P.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
This morning we venture into Matobo National Park for a half-day Nature Drive and Wilderness Walk. This reserve boasts the highest concentration of Black and White Rhino in Africa. Our knowledgeable guide will lead us on foot to some of the more concealed places in search of these magnificent animals. This remarkable park also has the densest population of leopard and black eagle in the world, and we keep our eyes peeled high and low for these creatures. After the tour we travel back to our Bulawayo guesthouse for leisurely afternoon.
Alternatively, you can book an optional extension to today's tour. Head into the Matobo Hills to see some of the ancient Bushmen paintings in the area and visit the grave of Cecil Rhodes, an important but controversial historical figure who ruled as Prime Minister of the colonial Cape Colony from 1890 - 1896.
Day 6: Victoria Falls
Location: Victoria Falls
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bulawayo - Victoria Falls. Leaving Bulawayo behind, we journey north to Victoria Falls. By early afternoon we reach this small town which is situated along the southern banks of the Zambezi River and serves as Zimbabwe’s primary tourist centre. The Victoria Falls are just a short walk away, surrounded by markets, shops, and cafes. To cap off the day, we join a serene sunset dinner cruise on the Zambezi River, on the look out for elephants, buffalo, buck, hippo, and birdlife along the riverbanks. We then return to our accommodation for the night or you can head out to enjoy the local nightlife.
Day 7: Victoria Falls
Location: Victoria Falls
Meals Included: Breakfast
After breakfast, we visit Victoria Falls National Park to witness one of Africa’s most spectacular sights. Stroll along the pathways to view the mighty Victoria Falls from different view points. The rest of the day is free to spend at leisure or enjoy some of the many exciting optional activities on offer at Victoria Falls. From white river rafting and canoeing, to scenic flights and bungee jumping. Alternatively you could relax and enjoy afternoon tea at the beautiful Victoria Falls Hotel.
What's Included
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Accommodation
Simple Accommodation -
6 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 6 dinners
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6 nights twin share accommodation.
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Transportation in a minibus and custom-built vehicle
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Kruger National Park - Full Day Open Vehicle Game Drive with Resident Guide
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Bakone Open Air Cultural Museum
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Matobo National Park, Half Day Open Vehicle Game Drive and Wilderness Walk with Resident Guide
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Victoria Falls visit and Zambezi Sunset Dinner Cruise
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Park entrance fees
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Escorted by an English-speaking driver / tour leader
What's Not Included
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International flights and visas
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Airport transfers - can be booked on request
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Tipping - an entirely personal gesture
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Optional activities (prices listed in Trip Notes)
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Local payment - $390pp, paid in USD
Accommodation
Sunset Game Lodge
The Sunset Game Lodge is a tranquil haven in prime bushveld, offering contemporary comfort and an authentic safari experience. En-suite guest rooms are air-conditioned and face onto the central courtyard, where there's a swimming pool to cool down in after a busy day on safari. The restaurant serves hearty, unpretentious food, mostly cooked outside or in the wood fired pizza oven. There's a gym for those who wish to keep fit and a lounge to retire to after dinner. Enjoy a sundowner in the bar overlooking the bushveld or relax on the spacious deck with a spectacular view of the Drakensberg Mountains, keeping an eye out for a variety of game at the waterhole below. The lodge is situated in Guernsey Private Nature Reserve, which is conveniently located just 38km from Kruger National Park's Orpen Gate.
Destiny Inn Lodge
Destiny Inn Lodge in Polokwane is a haven of comfort and convenience, strategically positioned on the outskirts of this vibrant city. The cozy and comfortable rooms provide a welcoming retreat with modern furnishings and thoughtful amenities. Guests can unwind in spacious accommodations equipped with Wi-Fi, an en-suite, and stylish decor. The lodge boasts an outdoor pool, a restaurant serving local and international cuisine, and a tranquil garden setting which is perfect to relax in after a long day exploring the city or the surrounding wilderness. Destiny Inn Lodge combines urban accessibility with a relaxing atmosphere, ensuring a memorable stay in Polokwane.
Travellers Guest House
Travellers Guest House in Bulawayo is a charming retreat set in Bulawayo, offering an authentic blend of comfort and hospitality. Conveniently located near the city, guests enjoy easy access to local attractions and vibrant markets. The guest house features cozy rooms decorated with local artwork and providing a warm and inviting atmosphere. They include modern amenities such as an en-suite, TV, and WiFi, ensuring a comfortable stay. The lush garden offers a serene escape, the pool offers a place to cool down and relax while the lounge and dining areas provide a communal area for all guests. With friendly staff and a genuine Zimbabwean ambiance, Travellers Guest House is a delightful haven for those exploring the regions rich culture and wildlife.
Shearwater Explorers Village
Situated in the bohemian town of Victoria Falls, and 400m from the Falls themselves, the affordable accommodation at the Shearwater Explorers Village consists of 5 campsites with modern bathroom facilities, and 16 chalets with en-suite showers and A/C. Shearwater operates a range of activities at the Falls, from bungee jumping to river rafting - and when the day is over, guests can wind down with Wi-Fi in the lounge areas, a drink by the pool, or even a back rub in the massage tent.
Age Policy
Minimum age 8
Check out our Q&As
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Ensuring our footprint is light and that the benefits of travelling reach the local communities you visit is paramount to us. We’re proud to say that when travelling with us, the large majority of your holiday funds remain within the countries you visit, supporting local economies at a grass roots level.
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1998
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Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?
With English-speaking tours, it's not a huge surprise that most on our travellers are from English-speaking countries or have English as their second language. Our group tours cater for everyone from 18 years old to 70+
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Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?
Yes
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Low Deposit
On The Go Tours requires a minimum deposit of 600 USD per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of on the go tours charges.
Up to 60 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 59 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.
Enquire for huge savings
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