7 DAYS SOUTH AFRICA: JACARANDAS, SAFARI AND HIKING

From $783 USD* / Big Five & balloon safari possible / 7 days

*price p.p. incl. rental car and hotels, excl. international flights (based on four persons)

One week as diverse as the country itself.

If the largest South African city is too much for you, head over to Tshwane, formerly Pretoria, and explore its markets, malls and music. The Groenkloof Nature Reserve is just a stone’s throw from Tshwane and a mecca for animal and nature lovers: go on a hike through the scenic and partly rough terrain or enjoy a game drive meeting zebras, giraffes, kudus, ostriches, jackals and many more â€“ or simply do both.

You don’t want to leave South Africa until you’ve seen the Big Five? Then off you go to Pilanesberg National Park, where the most famous animals roam freely. Our tip: a hot air balloon safari over the 550 square kilometers will lift you to seventh heaven â€¦ sparkling wine and English breakfast included!

Magoebaskloof with its diverse natural highlights and charming village of Haenertsburg is the perfect ending to your once-in-a-lifetime trip. Hike through the area, fly on a zip line through lush forests, past waterfalls and colourful gardens, and relax in the village’s cosy cafés and bars â€“ whichever activities you choose for your last few days, in this picture-perfect paradise you will make memories for a lifetime.

South Africa’s charm and wonders, bundled in one trip.

Explore all of this by yourself during an unforgettable road trip. If you want to learn more about this country during your trip, our guides will be happy to drive and show you around at extra cost.

Make your dream trip come true with Africa Safari Trips

At Africa Safari Trips, you can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. Our specialists work together with you to create your dream journey!

Request this trip now

Itinerary

  • Day 1: Arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg + Drive from Johannesburg to Tshwane (Pretoria)
  • Day 2: Tshwane (Pretoria) + Visit the Voortrekkers Museum in Tshwane (Pretoria)
  • Day 3: Drive from Tshwane (Pretoria) to Pilanesberg
  • Day 4: Pilanesberg National Park + Hot air balloon safari in Pilanesberg
  • Day 5: Drive from Pilanesberg to Magoebaskloof
  • Day 6: Magoebaskloof + Guided canopy tour in Magoebaskloof
  • Day 7: Drive from Magoebaskloof to Johannesburg + Flight home from Johannesburg (not included in the price)

Day 1

Arrival at O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg

Welcome to South Africa, nayimkelekile, baie welkom! As you walk out of O.R. Tambo International Airport in Johannesburg â€“ Africa’s biggest and busiest airport â€“ you head straight to your rental car pick-up place. This is where your adventure begins! This self-driving journey is all about freedom: explore at your own pace, tailor your days with exciting activities, and decide when to stop and soak it all in. With our travel guide full of top spots, local tips and charming padstalls, you’re set for an unforgettable road trip...!

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Day 2

Tshwane (Pretoria)

Tshwane (formerly Pretoria and nicknamed 'Jacaranda-city' because of its typical purple-blossomed trees) is a bustling multicultural city with tree-lined streets, skyscrapers, nature reserves and lots of history. Its rich cultural heritage and numerous historic landmarks make this city a must-visit for anyone seeking to learn more about South Africa’s complex past. But the city is more than its colonial legacy! Take your time to explore local markets, fine dining restaurants, live music, art and nature with even game drives or hikes in the mesmerising Groenkloof Nature Reserve... A visit to Tshwane will refresh your body, mind and spirit!

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Day 3

Drive from Tshwane (Pretoria) to Pilanesberg

The journey from Tshwane (formerly Pretoria) to Pilanesberg covers about 170 kilometres and takes roughly 2.5 hours via the N4. Need a quick stop? The small town of Rustenburg has got you covered for a convenient break along the way. Once you arrive, prepare for top-notch game viewing and breathtaking scenery in the fourth-largest national park in the country!

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Day 4

Pilanesberg National Park

Pilanesberg National Park lies in a transition zone between the Kalahari and Lowveld, where it covers 550 square kilometres, set in an ancient volcanic crater. The landscape features dramatic rock formations, wooded valleys and historical Stone and Iron Age sites. The Big Five roam freely here, along with over 7,000 other mammals, and the Mankwe Dam is a must-visit for spotting birds and animals gathering to drink. Explore on a self-drive or join a guided game drive; full-day and 3-hour safaris are available. And why not get up early for an unforgettable hot air balloon safari â€“ drifting over the wilderness as the wildlife wakes, before toasting the adventure with some bubbly and indulging in a safari breakfast!

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Day 5

Drive from Pilanesberg to Magoebaskloof

Your journey from Pilanesberg to the misty mountains of Magoebaskloof takes just under 5.5 hours, covering around 400 kilometres via the N1 highway. Set off after breakfast and enjoy ever-changing scenery along the way â€“ from open bushveld to indigenous forests, deep river gorges and dramatic waterfalls. Upon arrival, you can take the afternoon to relax and breathe in the cool mountain air, or start exploring the adventures of the Magoebaskloof!

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Day 6

Magoebaskloof

Magoebaskloof, nestled in the northeastern tip of the Drakensberg range in Limpopo, is a misty mountain escape filled with lush indigenous forests, crystal-clear streams and rare plant and animal life. The area is perfect for hiking and offers quirky highlights such as the echoing 'huilklip' (weeping rock). Thrill seekers can try the Magoebaskloof Canopy Tour, which makes you slide along 11 ziplines through treetops and past dramatic waterfalls, while vibrant gardens filled with azaleas, orchids, cherry trees and jacarandas will calm you down. After your outdoor adventures, unwind in Haenertsburg’s cosy cafés, galleries and lively craft beer scene â€“ the Cape Parrot Ale is a must-try!

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Day 7

Drive from Magoebaskloof to Johannesburg

Your unforgettable South African adventure is sadly coming to an end. This morning, get behind the wheel for one last scenic drive back to Johannesburg. It’s just under 380 kilometres to O.R. Tambo International Airport, taking around 3 hours and 45 minutes via the N1. Be sure to factor in potential traffic around Joburg, especially during peak hours. Drive safe and take it slow; there’s no rush to let go of the magic. Not ready to leave yet? Hop on a domestic flight to Cape Town and continue the adventure at the southernmost tip of Africa!

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Make your dream trip come true with Africa Safari Trips

At Africa Safari Trips, you can customize your trip. Our sample itineraries are adjustable to your preferences. Our specialists work together with you to create your dream journey!

Request this trip now

Why Africa Safari Trips?

  • We are based in Nairobi (Kenya) and Kampala (Uganda)
  • We offer private safaris
  • We have world class safari guides
  • You get Expert advice
  • Best value for money
  • Own safari vehicles
  • No limit on driving distance
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