South Africa 21-Day Trip Itinerary

Arrive at JNB & Car Pickup

Arrive at O.

R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) in Johannesburg. After clearing customs and immigration, proceed to pick up your pre-booked self-drive rental vehicle. A 4x4 or high-clearance vehicle is recommended for safari roads.

Ensure your rental agreement covers unlimited mileage and any necessary cross-border permissions if your later plans include them. Thoroughly inspect the vehicle before departing.

Check-in & Rest

Drive to your pre-booked budget-friendly accommodation near Johannesburg or slightly east, allowing for a relaxed evening to recover from your long flight.

Opt for a guesthouse or airport lodge that offers secure parking and is easy to access from the airport.

Local Dinner

Enjoy a casual dinner at a local restaurant or at your accommodation, sampling some South African cuisine.

Scenic Drive to Hazyview

Begin your journey towards the Kruger National Park region.

The drive to Hazyview is approximately 4-5 hours, offering views of the Highveld landscape transforming into subtropical lowveld. Stop for snacks and fuel along the way.

Lunch in Hazyview

Enjoy a hearty lunch in Hazyview, a bustling town known as a gateway to Kruger and the Panorama Route.

Settle into Lodge

Check into your budget-friendly accommodation in or around Hazyview, which will serve as your base for exploring Kruger and the Panorama Route.

Relax & Safari Prep

Spend the afternoon relaxing by the pool or exploring the lodge grounds.

Prepare your camera gear, snacks, and binoculars for your first full day of self-drive safari in Kruger tomorrow.

Early Morning Game Drive

Rise early to enter Kruger National Park at gate opening time (usually 06:00 in September) via Phabeni or Numbi Gate.

Head towards the southern region, known for its high concentration of wildlife, including the Big Five. Focus on areas around Skukuza and Lower Sabie.

Remember to adhere to park rules, stay on designated roads, and maintain safe distances from animals. Binoculars are essential for photography and spotting. Purchase a map at the gate.

Rest Camp Lunch

Enjoy a packed picnic lunch or grab a meal at one of the rest camps within the park, such as Skukuza or Lower Sabie.

Use this time to stretch your legs and review your sightings.

Afternoon Game Drive & Exit

Continue your self-drive, exploring different loops and waterholes.

Look for elephants, giraffes, zebras, and various antelope species. Head back towards your exit gate (Phabeni or Numbi) before closing time (17:30-18:00 in September).

Plan your route carefully to ensure you exit the park before the gates close. Fines apply for late exits.

Dinner at Lodge

Return to your lodge in Hazyview for dinner and to share your safari adventures of the day.

Central Kruger Exploration

Another early morning entry into Kruger National Park.

Today, focus on the central regions around Satara or Olifants Camps. This area is known for its vast open plains, attracting large herds of plains game and, consequently, excellent predator sightings, especially lions and cheetahs.

The roads in the central region are generally very good. Keep an eye on the waterholes and rivers for animals coming to drink. Ask other self-drivers for recent sightings.

Picnic at Olifants Camp

Enjoy a picnic lunch at Olifants Rest Camp, offering panoramic views over the Olifants River where elephants, hippos, and crocodiles are often seen.

Afternoon Tracking & Drive

Continue your game drive, focusing on areas with fresh tracks or reported sightings.

Spend time at specific waterholes or river crossings, which are prime spots for photographic opportunities. Exit the park before closing.

Optional Guided Night Drive

For a different perspective, consider booking a guided night drive through your lodge.

These drives use spotlights to find nocturnal animals, a unique experience not possible on self-drives.

This is an extra cost but highly recommended for spotting animals like civets, genets, bushbabies, and leopards.

Blyde River Canyon Views

Depart from Hazyview for a breathtaking drive along the Panorama Route.

Visit iconic viewpoints like God's Window, Bourke's Luck Potholes (where the Treur and Blyde Rivers meet), and the Three Rondavels, offering spectacular views of the Blyde River Canyon, one of the largest canyons in the world.

Carry small bills for entrance fees at some viewpoints. Wear comfortable shoes for walking short distances to viewing platforms.

Lunch in Graskop

Stop for lunch in the charming forestry town of Graskop, famous for its Graskop Gorge Lift and delicious pancakes.

Explore local craft shops for souvenirs.

Return to Lodge

After a scenic day, drive back to your lodge in Hazyview.

The rest of the afternoon is free for relaxation.

Farewell Dinner & Next Prep

Enjoy a final dinner in the Hazyview area.

Begin preparing for the next leg of your journey, which will involve further exploration of South Africa or travel towards Botswana.

Morning Game Drive (Central Kruger)

Start your day early to catch predators before the heat sets in.

Explore the central plains of Kruger National Park, known for its open savannah and excellent predator sightings, especially around the Satara and Olifants River areas. Keep an eye out for lions, cheetahs, and vast herds of wildebeest and zebra.

Pack snacks and drinks for the vehicle. Use designated rest camps for restroom breaks. Remember to drive slowly and keep a safe distance from all animals.

Picnic Lunch at Timbavati Picnic Site

Enjoy a packed lunch at one of Kruger's scenic picnic sites, such as Timbavati.

These sites offer basic facilities and a chance to stretch your legs outside the vehicle in a fenced area.

Buy groceries the day before. Be aware of monkeys and other animals that might try to snatch food.

Afternoon Game Drive (Satara Area)

Continue your game drive through the Satara region, often referred to as 'cat country' due to its high concentration of big cats.

Explore riverbeds and waterholes where animals gather.

Aim to be back at your accommodation before gate closing times. Use a good map or GPS app for navigation.

Dinner at Lower Sabie Camp Restaurant

Dine at a restaurant within one of Kruger's rest camps, offering simple but satisfying meals with views, for example, the restaurant at Lower Sabie Camp overlooking the Sabie River.

Morning Game Drive (Southern Kruger)

Explore the southern regions of Kruger, which are often denser in vegetation and boast a high concentration of rhino.

Drive along the Sabie River for excellent opportunities to spot hippos, crocodiles, and various birdlife. You might head towards Skukuza or Crocodile Bridge areas.

Keep your camera ready for the 'Big Five'. This area is known for frequent sightings.

Lunch at Skukuza Rest Camp

Enjoy lunch at the largest rest camp in Kruger, Skukuza.

It has a restaurant, shop, and museum. A good place to refuel and relax.

Consider visiting the Stevenson-Hamilton Memorial Museum within the camp to learn about Kruger's history.

Scenic Drive Towards Exit

Take a final slow game drive towards one of the southern exit gates (e.

g., Malelane Gate or Numbi Gate), enjoying the last views of Kruger's magnificent landscape and wildlife. Head to an accommodation just outside the park, closer to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP).

Dinner in Hazyview

Dine at a local restaurant in Hazyview, a town situated close to Kruger National Park, offering various cuisine options.

Drive to Kruger Mpumalanga Airport

Drive your rented vehicle from Hazyview to Kruger Mpumalanga International Airport (MQP), approximately 45-60 minutes.

Flight to Maun, Botswana

Fly from Kruger Mpumalanga (MQP) to Maun (MUB) in Botswana.

This will likely involve a connecting flight through Johannesburg (JNB). Please note the time zone change upon arrival in Botswana (CAT, GMT+2).

Arrive in Maun & Check-in

Upon arrival at Maun Airport, transfer to your budget-friendly accommodation.

Maun is the gateway to the Okavango Delta.

Dinner in Maun

Enjoy a relaxed dinner at a local restaurant in Maun.

Many establishments offer a mix of international and traditional Botswanan cuisine.

Stock Up on Supplies & Relax

Take the morning to relax after your travel day.

Visit local supermarkets in Maun to stock up on any personal items, snacks, and drinks you might need for your upcoming Okavango Delta safari.

Depending on your Delta safari, some items might be provided, but it's always good to have personal preferences covered, especially for snacks and bottled water.

Visit Maun's Craft Market & Cultural Centre

Explore Maun's local craft markets, where you can find handmade baskets, carvings, and other souvenirs.

This is a good opportunity to interact with local artisans and learn about their crafts.

Bargaining is common at markets, but always be respectful. Supports local communities.

Riverside Lunch in Maun

Enjoy lunch at a restaurant along the Thamalakane River, which flows through Maun.

Offers pleasant views and a relaxed atmosphere.

Leisure Time & Safari Briefing

Spend the afternoon at leisure, perhaps by the pool at your guesthouse or preparing your gear for the Okavango Delta.

If you've pre-booked a Delta safari, you might have an orientation meeting or briefing this afternoon or evening.

Take this time to pack a smaller bag for the Delta portion, if necessary, leaving larger luggage securely stored. Ask your accommodation about safe storage options.

Dinner & Delta Planning

Have dinner and review your plans for the upcoming Okavango Delta experience.

Confirm logistics for tomorrow's transfer.

Morning Mokoro Trip on Thamalakane River

Experience a taste of the Okavango Delta with a half-day 'mokoro' (traditional dugout canoe) trip on the Thamalakane River near Maun.

Your poler will guide you through the waterways, allowing for peaceful birdwatching and a glimpse into delta life.

This provides a gentle introduction to the delta environment before venturing deeper. Wear a hat, sunglasses, and bring water.

Lunch at a Local Eatery

Grab a quick and authentic lunch at a local eatery in Maun, savoring Botswanan flavors.

Final Preparations for Okavango Delta

Utilize the afternoon for any last-minute errands or preparations for your immersive Okavango Delta experience starting tomorrow. This might include reconfirming transfers or reviewing your safari packing list.

Ensure all cameras are charged, memory cards are clear, and you have enough water and sunscreen. Confirm pick-up times for your Okavango Delta safari.

Dinner in Maun

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Maun before heading into the heart of the Okavango Delta tomorrow.

Transfer to Okavango Delta Camp

After arriving in Maun (likely the entry point into the Delta), you'll be transferred by a combination of light aircraft and 4x4 vehicle to your chosen budget-friendly safari camp within the Okavango Delta region.

Enjoy the scenic journey over the delta's intricate waterways.

Ensure your camp transfer is pre-arranged. Your self-drive vehicle will likely be securely parked in Maun for this portion of the trip.

Camp Check-in & Lunch

Settle into your tented camp, enjoy a welcome briefing, and have lunch before your first safari activity.

Take some time to relax and take in the sounds of the bush.

Okavango Mokoro Safari

Embark on a traditional mokoro (dugout canoe) safari, gliding silently through the narrow channels of the Okavango Delta. This offers a unique, low-impact way to observe birds, aquatic life, and land animals from a water perspective.

Mokoros are poled by local guides, providing an intimate connection with nature. Ideal for photography with stable conditions.

Guided Bush Walk / Game Drive

Depending on your camp's location (wet or dry area), you'll either embark on an early morning guided bush walk, offering a chance to learn about tracking, plants, and smaller creatures, or a game drive for larger wildlife sightings. This is an excellent opportunity for photography in soft morning light.

Wear comfortable walking shoes and neutral-colored clothing. Always follow your guide's instructions. Binoculars are a must!

Leisure at Camp & Lunch

Return to camp for a hearty breakfast and some relaxation during the hottest part of the day.

Enjoy the camp's amenities, review your photos, or simply soak in the tranquility of the Delta. Lunch will be served.

Motorboat Safari

Explore wider channels and lagoons by motorboat, allowing you to cover more ground and potentially spot hippos, crocodiles, and various bird species.

This provides a different perspective of the Delta's ecosystem and is great for capturing dynamic wildlife shots.

The speed of the motorboat allows for covering greater distances and exploring larger lagoons. Keep your camera ready!

Morning Bird Watching Walk

Enjoy a final morning activity in the Delta, perhaps a bird watching walk focusing on the incredible avian diversity, or a short mokoro trip to a new area.

A last chance to capture the serene beauty of the Delta.

The Okavango is a birder's paradise, especially during migration periods. Keep an eye out for rare species!

Transfer from Delta to Kasane

After breakfast, transfer back to Maun by light aircraft.

From Maun, take an internal flight to Kasane, the gateway to Chobe National Park. This transfer will offer stunning aerial views of Botswana's landscape.

This involves a light aircraft transfer from your camp to Maun, followed by a scheduled flight to Kasane. It's the most efficient way to travel between these areas.

Check into Kasane Lodge & Lunch

Arrive in Kasane and transfer to your chosen budget-friendly lodge.

Check in and enjoy a late lunch.

Chobe River Sunset Cruise

Embark on an unforgettable sunset boat cruise along the Chobe Riverfront.

This is one of the best ways to see Chobe's prolific wildlife, including massive herds of elephants coming to drink, hippos, crocodiles, and countless bird species, all bathed in the golden light of sunset.

The Chobe Riverfront is famous for its elephants, especially in the dry season. Consider a safari operator like BUSH WILDERNESS SAFARIS or Dewclaw Eco Tours and Safaris who often offer these cruises as part of their packages.

Early Morning Chobe Game Drive

Embark on an early morning game drive into Chobe National Park's Riverfront area.

This time of day is prime for spotting predators (lions, leopards) and seeing other animals (buffalo, giraffes, zebras, and of course, elephants) before the heat of the day sets in. Ideal for capturing dramatic wildlife photos.

Drives are typically in open 4x4 safari vehicles with experienced guides. Pack warm layers as mornings can be chilly.

Lodge Relaxation & Lunch

Return to your lodge for breakfast, lunch, and some well-deserved relaxation.

Enjoy the pool, read a book, or process your morning's photos.

Afternoon Chobe Game Drive

Head back into Chobe National Park for an afternoon game drive.

Focus on different areas of the park or revisit spots where you saw interesting activity. The late afternoon light is fantastic for photography as animals become more active again.

Your guide will use their knowledge to track animals and find the best viewing spots.

Chobe River Photo Safari

Choose another Chobe River cruise for the morning, perhaps focusing more on photography, or a final short game drive to try and spot any elusive species. The light in the morning over the river is often stunning for photos.

This is a great chance to capture those 'last shots' of the incredible Chobe wildlife and landscapes.

Late Breakfast at Lodge

Enjoy a leisurely breakfast at your lodge after your morning activity.

Leisure & Prepare for Departure

Enjoy some free time at the lodge, perhaps by the pool, or use the time to organize your photos, pack, and prepare for your onward journey to Victoria Falls tomorrow.

You may have the option for a day room if your transfer is later, or simply relax in the common areas. Check out times may vary.

Farewell Dinner in Kasane

Enjoy a final dinner in Kasane, perhaps at a local restaurant or your lodge, reflecting on your incredible Botswana safari experiences.

Drive to Victoria Falls

Embark on a self-drive journey from Chobe National Park (Botswana) to Victoria Falls (Zimbabwe).

This will involve crossing the border at Kazungula. Ensure you have all necessary vehicle and passport documentation.

Keep your passports, vehicle registration, and any necessary permits readily accessible for border crossing. Have some USD for border fees.

Check into Accommodation

Settle into your budget-friendly guest house or lodge in Victoria Falls town, Zimbabwe side.

For budget travel, consider options like Victoria Falls Rest Camp & Lodges for chalets or self-catering, or local guest houses booked well in advance.

Explore Victoria Falls Town

Take some time to explore the small, charming town of Victoria Falls.

Visit local craft markets for souvenirs and get a feel for the local atmosphere.

Zambezi River Sunset View

Find a scenic spot along the Zambezi River or at a local viewpoint to enjoy a breathtaking African sunset.

Dinner in Town

Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant in Victoria Falls town.

Victoria Falls National Park (Zimbabwe)

Spend the morning exploring the magnificent Victoria Falls from the Zimbabwean side.

Walk along the pathways to various viewpoints, experiencing the sheer power and beauty of 'The Smoke That Thunders'.

Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for spray, especially during September. Raincoats are often available for rent. The best views are usually from the Zimbabwean side.

Lunch in Victoria Falls

Grab a relaxed lunch at a cafe or restaurant in Victoria Falls town.

Optional Zambezi Sunset Cruise

Enjoy a leisurely cruise on the upper Zambezi River, admiring the scenery, spotting wildlife like hippos and crocodiles, and enjoying snacks and drinks as the sun sets.

This is a popular photographic opportunity.

Book this activity in advance, especially during peak season like September. Multiple operators offer cruises, often including drinks and light snacks.

Dinner & Relax

Enjoy a final dinner in Victoria Falls town and prepare for tomorrow's drive to Hwange.

Victoria Falls (Zambia side)

Cross the Victoria Falls Bridge to Livingstone, Zambia, to experience the Falls from a different perspective.

Key viewpoints include the Knife-Edge Bridge and Boiling Pot trail. Remember passport and visa if required.

Depending on your nationality, you might need a KAZA Uni-Visa (if still available) or individual visas for Zambia and Zimbabwe. Check visa requirements in advance. The Zambian side offers a closer view of some cascades.

Optional Livingstone Island Tour

Experience the famous Livingstone Island Tour, starting with a thrilling boat ride to the edge of Victoria Falls.

This is a unique perspective and offers stunning photographic opportunities.

This experience is offered by Green Safaris and is highly rated. Booking essential. Be aware that this is generally a more expensive activity, so budget accordingly.

Drive to Hwange National Park

Begin your self-drive journey from Victoria Falls to Hwange National Park.

The main gate is approximately 2-3 hours drive south-east. Settle into your safari camp.

Check-in & Dinner at Hwange

Check into your chosen budget-friendly safari camp or lodge in/around Hwange National Park and enjoy dinner.

Morning Game Drive

Embark on an early morning self-drive game drive into Hwange National Park.

September is a fantastic time for wildlife viewing as animals congregate around the park's pumped waterholes. Look for elephants, lions, buffalo, and various antelope species.

Hwange is known for its large elephant herds. Drive slowly and keep a keen eye out for predators. Bring your camera and plenty of water.

Relax & Lunch at Camp

Return to your camp for a relaxed brunch or lunch during the hottest part of the day.

Afternoon Waterhole & Game Drive

Head back into the park for an afternoon game drive, focusing on different areas or waterholes.

This time of day is excellent for observing animals coming to drink as the sun begins to set, offering great photographic light.

Consider visiting popular waterholes like Nyamandhlovu Pan or Guvalala Platform. Always remain in your vehicle unless in a designated area.

Dinner at Safari Camp

Enjoy dinner back at your safari camp, sharing stories of the day's wildlife sightings.

Final Morning Game Drive

One last opportunity for a self-drive game drive in Hwange National Park, focusing on areas you might have missed or revisiting favorite spots for a final photographic session.

This is a great chance to look for any specific animals you might still be hoping to see, such as wild dogs or cheetahs.

Brunch & Check-out

Enjoy a leisurely brunch at your camp and prepare for check-out and the drive back to Victoria Falls.

Drive back to Victoria Falls

Drive your rented vehicle back to Victoria Falls, where you will likely return the vehicle or make arrangements for its return on Day 21.

Souvenir Shopping & Relaxation

Spend the afternoon doing some last-minute souvenir shopping at the local markets in Victoria Falls town or simply relax at your accommodation, reminiscing about your safari adventure.

The Elephant's Walk Shopping and Artist's Village is a popular spot for local crafts and curios.

Farewell Dinner

Enjoy a farewell dinner in Victoria Falls, celebrating the culmination of your incredible multi-country safari.

Check-out & Car Return

Enjoy a final breakfast at your accommodation before checking out.

Proceed to return your self-drive rental vehicle at the designated drop-off point, likely near Victoria Falls or Livingstone Airport.

Confirm drop-off location and procedures with your rental company in advance.

Last-minute Souvenir Shopping

Spend your last morning browsing local markets and craft shops in Victoria Falls or Livingstone.

Look for unique African art, wooden carvings, textiles, and local handicrafts to remember your safari adventure.

Bargaining is often expected in local markets. Carry small denominations of USD.

Farewell Lunch

Enjoy a relaxed final lunch at a local restaurant or cafe, savoring the flavors of Southern Africa one last time before heading to the airport.

Many restaurants offer views of the Zambezi River or local culture.

Transfer to Airport

Arrange a taxi or shuttle transfer from your location in Victoria Falls or Livingstone to either Harry Mwanga Nkumbula International Airport (Livingstone, LVI) or Victoria Falls International Airport (VFA), depending on your flight booking.

Confirm transfer booking in advance. Ensure you leave ample time for customs and check-in for your international flight.

Flight Check-in & Departure

Complete check-in procedures, pass through security, and await your international flight back to Melbourne, Australia, concluding your unforgettable 21-day African safari.

Allow sufficient time for duty-free shopping and any last-minute immigration procedures.