Are YOU interested in a South Africa safari? If you’ve ever dreamed of witnessing Africa’s majestic wildlife up close, experiencing world-class lodges, and immersing yourself in the vibrant culture of South Africa, then you’re in the right place! I recently returned from an unforgettable 12-day adventure across South Africa, and I’m excited to share my journey with you.
As a safari travel advisor, I work with trusted tour operators and safari expert partners to ensure that every client maximizes their experience in South Africa. This trip allowed me to strengthen partnerships, explore new accommodations to match my clients with, and gain deeper insight into the country’s diverse offerings. Whether you’re looking for a classic Big 5 safari, cultural experiences, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, I can help craft your dream itinerary. Click here to start planning your safari!
Watch My South Africa Itinerary Video
Before diving into the details, check out my video that breaks down everything from start to finish. It’s the best way to get a visual feel for this itinerary and see firsthand what makes South Africa such a spectacular destination.
12-Day South Africa Itinerary Breakdown
Landing in Johannesburg
The adventure began in Johannesburg, the gateway to South Africa’s bushveld. Instead of simply passing through, I took a private day tour of the city to explore its rich history and culture. Stops included the Mandela House, the Apartheid Museum, and Soweto, offering a powerful introduction to South Africa’s past and present.
Thornybush Game Reserve
The safari experience officially kicked off as I flew into Mpumalanga (Nelspruit) and headed to Thornybush Game Reserve. It’s here I stayed at the luxurious Siviti Lodge, a 5-star accommodation nestled in the bush. Thornybush is home to the Big 5, and we had some incredible wildlife encounters, including rhinos up close and lions roaring right next to our vehicle.
I’ve ever been to this remarkable species in the wild!
Hoedspruit
Next, I spent two nights in Hoedspruit, a charming safari town. I stayed at AfriKaya, a brand-new lodge owned by close friends. Hoedspruit is a great place to relax between safari adventures, with fantastic shopping and laid-back cafés.
While here, I decided to take an afternoon boat cruise through the Blyde River Canyon, one of South Africa’s most scenic landscapes.
Timbavati Private Nature Reserve
From Hoedspruit, I ventured into Timbavati Reserve, where I stayed at Bateleur Camp for two nights. Timbavati is known for its incredible leopard sightings and diverse wildlife. The game drives here were nothing short of spectacular!
Magoebaskloof – A Hidden Gem
As part of a BHS Safari Company retreat, I traveled to Magoebaskloof, an off-the-beaten-path destination. This portion of the trip was all about unique experiences beyond traditional safaris, including:
- Mushroom foraging in the lush forests
- Farm-to-table dining with a local chef
- Cheese-making lessons at a nearby farm
This experience was invaluable in expanding my knowledge of South Africa’s diverse offerings, which allows me to curate well-rounded itineraries for my clients. Let’s craft a safari experience tailored to you!
with such a stellar group of safari experts and guides!
Return to Thornybush – Serondella Lodge
I then returned to Thornybush Game Reserve, this time staying at Serondella Lodge, a premium 5-star accommodation. The highlight here was an incredible up-close leopard sighting, a truly unforgettable moment in the wild.
Final Stop: Hoedspruit & Departure
Before flying out, I spent one last night in Hoedspruit, soaking in the beauty of the bush and reflecting on the incredible journey. But my adventure didn’t end there—
I continued to Cape Town, which will be featured in its own dedicated video and blog post. Stay tuned for more!
Let’s Plan Your South Africa Safari
This itinerary showcased just a fraction of what South Africa has to offer, and I’d love to help you create your own perfect safari experience. Whether you’re interested in a classic Big 5 safari, cultural excursions, or off-the-beaten-path adventures, I can craft an itinerary tailored to your needs.
Start planning your dream safari today!
Jeff Hyer 