Kruger, Swaziland and South Africa's Garden Route
South Africa, Swaziland - Trip code ZKS Wildlife
Visit the great game reserves of South Africa and Swaziland. Search for the Big Five, learn about the history of the Zulu battlefields, explore the wetlands of St Lucia and discover the last absolute monarchy in Africa.
Kruger - The most iconic National Park in South Africa, home to the Big Five
Hluhluwe iMfolozi - Home to the biggest rhino population in Africa
Mlilwane - A walking safari in this secluded wildlife sanctuary beneath the Nyonyane Mountains.
Lunch: 1
1 nights simple bungalow
3 nights comfortable cabins
6 nights comfortable lodge
2 nights comfortable rondavels
zks-2022 zks-2023
Day 1 - Join trip in Johannesburg; drive to the Drakensberg Mountains
Arrive in Johannesburg, South Africa's largest city, and once home to both Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu.
Today your leader will meet you in the reception of Aero Guest Lodge at 11.30am. If you would like to receive a complimentary airport transfer today, you'll need to arrive into O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB), which is just a short 10 minute drive from the meeting hotel.
Please note, it's essential you arrive at the meeting point by 11.30am so the leader can give a short briefing before we depart south-east from Johannesburg to the Drakensberg Mountains. The drive to the Drakensberg is around 4.5 hours. Drakensberg is the world's oldest mountain range, deriving its name from the Afrikaans word for 'Dragon Mountains'; in the inevitable mist, the razor back ridges of the mountains have a certain likeness to these mythical beasts. On arrival to our accommodation, there may be an opportunity to take a short walk among the rugged nature.
If you are booking your own flights to Johannesburg, we recommend giving yourself at least 60 minutes to clear the airport. From the airport to the hotel is around 10 minutes' drive, the latest your flight can arrive is 10.30am.
Please note: A majority of flights will land into Johannesburg in the early morning, so there will be access to tea and coffee, toilets and the hotel lounge at our meeting hotel.
Sungubala Eco Camp (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Lodge
Meals Provided: Dinner
Day 2 - Walk in Drakensberg World Heritage Site
We wake up to a hearty breakfast before having an opportunity to partake in a guided walk, where we will be able to experience the beauty of this mountain range first hand. The walk will usually take 4-5 hours and is of a moderate to challenging level of difficulty. Weather permitting, upon returning, our guide will have prepared a tasty 'al fresco' lunch enabling us to soak up the spectacular views of the Drakensberg. The afternoon is left open to either relax whilst enjoying a cool drink or perhaps continue our adventure with an unguided walk through the mountain valleys.
Meals Provided: Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner
Day 3 - Visit battlefields; drive on to St Lucia
Today we visit the famous battlefields. As anyone who has ever watched the film Zulu Dawn will know, the battlefields of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana were the scenes of bloody and hugely significant events in the history of the Zulu nation. We will visit the battle sites of Rorke's Drift and Isandlwana to gain a perspective into the people and history of South Africa. Isandlwana is undoubtedly the most haunting of all the battlefields as the many white cairns reflect upon the arrogance of a Victorian empire and the victory of the Zulu people who call themselves 'the children of the stars'. The hill of Isandlwana stands a silent testimony to the determination and pride of the Zulu people. Isandlwana is truly haunting in the lessons it taught South Africa of colonialism and the folly of war. Rorke's Drift, a battle made famous in the film Zulu, is unique for the awarding of eleven VC's in a single engagement. We make our way to St Lucia after the battlefields where we will be based for the next 2 days.
St Lucia Safari Lodge (or similar)
Day 4 - Game Drives at Hluhluwe-iMfolozi Game Reserve
We rise early this morning to take advantage of the 'golden hour' on what is our first opportunity to experience a 'Big 5' safari. Hluhluwe-iMfolozi park boasts the densest population of both white and black rhino in the whole of Africa. We will have a quick stop at one of the reserve's watering holes, where we can stretch our legs and freshen up before continuing on our journey through this ancient Zulu hunting ground. With over 500 species of birds recorded at this reserve it is also a paradise for any birdwatchers amongst us. In the mid afternoon, we depart for St. Lucia where there is the opportunity to experience the optional activity of a 'Hippo Cruise' on the Greater St. Lucia Estuary. The cruise meanders along allowing us to relax whilst viewing the hippos and crocodiles in their natural habitat as, once again, the sun drops from the African sky.
Day 5 - At St Lucia Wetland Reserve
Today is a day of leisure, where we have a choice of optional activities available in the area. There is the opportunity to continue our game viewing experience by taking an open game drive in the iSimangaliso Wetland Park, which was the first World Heritage Site in South Africa. The word iSimangaliso means miracle and wonder, which aptly describes this truly unique place. The day includes a 'braai' lunch and an option of an afternoon swim or snorkel in the Indian Ocean at Cape Vidal. There is also the chance to amble to the St. Lucia beach for a relaxing dip in the ocean or spend time walking the local forest trails. In the evening we can enjoy an exhilarating night game drive when all the nocturnal wildlife start their day. From November to February we can join a guided turtle tour in the Wetland Park.
Day 6 - Drive to Swaziland
This morning we make our to Swaziland, during June to November we may have the opportunity to participate in the optional activity of whale watching along the way. We then drive north and enter Swaziland - a tiny, independent kingdom inhabited by the Swazi tribe who revere their king and take great pride in retaining their culture and traditions. Our journey takes us through some spectacular scenery in the Ezulwini Valley and past numerous traditional homesteads and curio stalls. In the late afternoon we enter one of Swaziland's best wildlife reserves, Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary. This secluded and beautiful sanctuary is a haven of tranquillity, located as it is in a natural bowl beneath the Nyonyane Mountains. For the next two nights our accommodation is in traditional dome-shaped beehive huts set in a wooded area. Though the camp has all the mod cons of showers, toilets, outdoor swimming pool and restaurant/bar it is rustic in the best sense of the word. Warthogs and antelope share the camp with us and the restaurant overlooks a lake populated by water birds.
Mlilwane Lodge or Rest Camp (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Rondavels
Day 7 - Game viewing and optional activities in Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary
Mlilwane is Swaziland's oldest protected area, owned and managed by a non-profit making trust, it is situated in the low foothills of the Nyonyane Mountains. The park has been rehabilitated to become Swaziland's most frequented reserve where one can enjoy the beauty of the surroundings and the abundant wildlife that grace these plains. Mlilwane has a large area of open grassland making game viewing and bird watching relatively easy and this morning we begin with a walk in search of zebra, wildebeest, nyala and warthog. The afternoon is left free to choose one of the optional activities available at the reserve, the absence of big cats allows us to partake in mountain biking or trail walking in a relaxed setting. The alternatives are to accompany our guide to the friendly local curios thus providing a real feel for the Swasi people and their culture, or relax and sit back to watch the local wildlife grazing outside our very own front door.
Day 8 - Drive to Kruger National Park
After an early start we drive north re-entering South Africa and crossing the Crocodile River into the Kruger National Park. This two million hectare wilderness is amongst the world's first proclaimed game reserves and is justifiably South Africa's showpiece, boasting 147 mammal species. The park offers the 'Big 5' and over 500 recorded bird species along with scenery as diverse as riverine forest, granite outcrops, endless savannah and impenetrable mopani woodland. We take an open-vehicle game drive on our way to the camp area where we stay overnight. These camps areas benefit from modern infrastructure with toilet and shower blocks, restaurants and shops, as well as our accommodation.
Pretoriuskop Rest Camp (or similar)
Grade: Simple Bungalow
Day 9 - Game viewing in Kruger National Park; drive to Graskop
The Kruger National Park was established in 1898 to protect big game that had been hunted to near extinction, it is now one of the most prolific animal habitats in South Africa, committed to animal conservation. We depart camp for our morning game drive searching for sightings of the extensive wildlife that make this national park their home. We stop at various watering holes where we may see buffalo or antelope taking an early morning drink and hopefully a pride of lions nearby. We finish the morning drive by having lunch at one of the park's restaurants. Our afternoon game drive takes us to the Sabie River, which is a major water source for the park's wildlife and a fantastic spot for game viewing. We leave the park in the late afternoon, climbing in excess of 1,000 metres to our overnight stop at Graskop.
Mogodi Lodge (or similar)
Day 10 - Fly to Cape Town
Departing at 9am this morning we drive for around 7 hours back to Johannesburg. Along the way we drive through the airy uplands of Mpumalanga, an area that has been inhabited since the Stone Age and boasts rivers, multiple waterfalls, craggy escarpments and colourful birdlife. We'll stop at several excellent viewpoints, including the aptly named 'God's Window' and admire the awe-inspiring Blyde River Canyon. We'll arrive into O.R. Tambo International Airport (JNB) at about 5pm and from here you'll fly to Cape Town.
You will arriving into Cape Town, South Africa's Mother City, late this evening. Upon landing in Cape Town Airport please proceed to the Visitor Information Centre in the Central Terminal near the exit marked by a big 'i' symbol, where your driver will be waiting for you with a sign. The transfer from Cape Town International airport is around 40 minutes to our hotel. On this part of the trip, due to different arrival times throughout the evening, the welcome meeting with your leader takes place on the morning of day 11 after breakfast.
Noordhoek Village Hotel (or similar)
Day 11 - Explore Cape Peninsula National Park
Our full day trip to Cape Peninsula will begin with a scenic drive via the white-sand beaches of Fish Hoek, stopping to explore the small but important naval base of Simon's Town. Later, we arrive at Cape of Good Hope, allegedly named due to the optimism once felt by arriving colonial sailors having successfully navigated the Cape and discovering a sea route to the East. We'll take an hour-long walk within the national park to Cape Point and the lighthouse, keeping an eye out for resident baboons, tortoises, otters and seabirds along the way. The trail is well marked, slightly rocky in places, and boasts diverse flora with many colourful flowers.
We'll return to Cape Town via Hout Bay, an attractive fishing port once bordered by dense forest, hence its name, which translates as 'Wood Bay'. Here, we have the option of taking a short boat trip out to Seal Island - home to 1,000 Cape fur seals and guarded by the impressive, towering Sentinel Mountain. Alternatively, explore on dry land to see Hout Bay's active tuna, snoek and crayfish industry and find out why the town prides itself on offering some of the best fish and chips in the world.
Day 12 - Free day in Cape Town; evening in Stellenbosch
Today is free for you to explore under your own steam and there is ample choice on how to spend your day.
If you want to visit Robben Island, this morning is the best time to go. With prior booking, you can visit the infamous Robben Island, the former prison where Nelson Mandela was incarcerated. There are departures at 9am, 11am and 1pm but the city's changeable weather often means the earlier morning departures are the most reliable. For information on how to book this, please see the optional activities section or visit www.robben-island.org.za.
Alternatively, the morning is also the best time to hike up Table Mountain, with more reliable weather and cooler temperatures making a better experience and breath taking views over the Apostles, the Atlantic and the city below. The walk up to the viewpoint takes between three to four hours and is accompanied by our Trip Leader. There is also the option to take the aerial cable car to the top, which runs frequently to and from the summit, where a network of trails criss-cross the plateau and provide a variety of vantage points.
While a Robben Island visit and cable-car visit to Table Mountain can be completed in the same day, time does not allow you to visit Robben Island and hike up Table Mountain, therefore, you need to choose between Robben Island and the Table Mountain hike, or alternatively book a pre-trip stay to give yourself more time.
Another option is to take a trip to the Kirstenbosch National Botanical Gardens, which claims to be the most beautiful garden in Africa and is devoted to conservation of the Cape's indigenous species. Your Trip Leader will be able to give further local advice and recommendations on the optional activities.
Late this afternoon, we'll leave Cape Town and head to the scenic winelands of Stellenbosch where you can relax with a sundowner on the terrace. Our hotel has a restaurant and there are a small selection of eateries just a short walk away.
Please note: Both Robben Island and Table Mountain are weather dependant. Table Mountain's cableway is closed for two weeks at the end of July for maintenance.
Stellenbosch Hotel (or similar)
Day 13 - Free day in Stellenbosch to visit a vineyard
Stellenbosch is world famous for its wine and today is a perfect opportunity to visit one or two vineyards for a tasting. Many are set within spectacular gardens and farmland, and offer the opportunity to have lunch and a stroll. A guided tour of Stellenbosch Town is also an option and a great way to learn about the many cultures that have come together to make Stellenbosch what it is today. One of the oldest of the colonial settlements, this charming town is made up of wide, oak lined streets and white washed, Cape Dutch architecture. There are many cafes, bars and delis to choose from for lunch and most pride themselves on using local produce.
Or a more active option is to visit Jonkershoek Nature Reserve for a 2.5 hour walking excursion. Easy, scenic walking trails run through an important conservation area of indigenous forest, home to over 1,100 plant species, as well as a number of reptile and mammal species including the elusive leopard.
Day 14 - Travel to Hermanus via Stony Point's African Penguin Colony
This morning will be an earlier start as we make our way to Hermanus. A 90 minute drive takes us to the Betty's Bay area where we will have an included visit to Stony Point Nature Reserve. This reserve sits on the site of a historic whaling station and has a quiet, undiscovered feel, offering excellent penguin viewing without the crowds. The boardwalks can be followed over the craggy outcrops to see the resident seabirds up close without disturbing them. Although humans are not allowed to wander beyond the boardwalks, it does not always stop the penguins joining the trail and setting a slow walking pace!
After a lunch break at Betty's Bay, we'll continue to our apartment-style accommodation in central Hermanus. This afternoon will be free to explore the coastal town. From July to November, Hermanus offers some of the world's best shore- based whale watching, with good opportunity to spot southern right, Bryde's and humpback whales. Although there is a good chance of seeing the whales from the water's edge in town, you may prefer to follow the coastal path to a better vantage point or join a boat trip excursion for a closer view. At other times of year, you may choose to spend the day exploring the galleries and museums in Hermanus, which are easy to discover on foot. Or if you developed a taste for South African wine while in Stellenbosch, then Hemel-en-Aarde wine valley (Heaven and Earth Valley) is just a stone's throw away, and offers a selection of wineries with views over the town and coast below.
This evening will be at your leisure. There is a variety of traditional South African and seafood restaurants lining the streets.
Windsor Hotel (or similar)
Day 15 - Visit Cape Agulhas. Spend the night on the banks of the Breede River
We'll stand on the southernmost point of the African continent this morning and see where the Atlantic Ocean meets the Indian Ocean in a white crash of waves. Now marked by a stone plaque, the 'Cape of Storms' was once a point of grave danger to European navigators and to the site of various evidential shipwrecks. We'll have some free time to explore here and get some lunch.
We'll continue towards Swellendam this afternoon, leaving the main road to follow a gravel track to our river camp, where rustic, wooden a-frame huts line the banks of the Breede River. This accommodation offers a real break from reality and a chance to enjoy the surrounding nature. You can chat with the friendly team - many of which come from the nearby town - at the bar or around this evening's camp fire for an insight into their life on the Western Cape. Or find a relaxing spot along the riverbank to enjoy the peace and quiet. This evening a traditional, bush-style dinner will be served before a campfire under the starry sky (weather-dependent).
Round the Bend Lodge (or similar)
Grade: Comfortable Cabins
Meals Provided: Breakfast and Dinner
Day 16 - Opportunity for rafting on the Breede River. Drive to Oudtshoorn
This morning, if weather allows, there will be an option to try your hand at rafting along the Breede River in two-person inflatable rafts. The grade changes according to the water levels but generally rafting does not exceed grade two and all abilities are welcome. Alternatively, enjoy a coffee by the water's edge or a take a walk around the surrounding countryside of the Western Cape.
There'll be time for lunch in the historic town of Swellendam. This town is small by most standards but is one of the oldest districts in South Africa. Rich in colonial history as an old trading post, the town has well-preserved examples of Cape Dutch architecture. Later this afternoon we'll make our way to Oudtshoorn, where we will be staying in a family-run property close to the centre of town. Depending on our arrival time you can use the pool and all rooms have outdoor seating to make the most of the afternoon sun. This evening is free to walk into town for dinner or perhaps have a barbeque in one of the outdoor eating areas.
Kleinplaas Resort (or similar)
Day 17 - Visit Cango Caves and take in the views at Knysna Heads
We start today by exploring the huge limestone caverns of the Cango Caves. These caves are an underground network of extraordinary structures, millions of years old. The combination of dripping rainwater and limestone has led to the creation of ancient stalactites, stalagmites and mighty rock columns. Allegedly, a local European farmer first discovered the caves late in the 18th century; however, there is research that proves the caves to have been used by man as far back as the Early Stone Age.
Later this morning, we'll leave Oudtshoorn and make our way to the coastal town of Knysna. Here, we'll visit Knysna Heads Viewpoint, where two limestone cliffs emerge from the sea side by side, protecting a peaceful lagoon that runs inland from the sea. The lagoon is popular with tourists and local residents alike and is home to fishermen, water sports enthusiasts and many birds, including herons, kingfishers, African fish eagles and Knysna warblers. We'll have time to enjoy lunch on the waterfront this afternoon and wander around the quaint, little town before we depart on our final journey of the day to Plettenberg Bay.
Our accommodation for the next two nights is a white-washed, seaside resort, set just a five-minute walk down to the unspoilt Keurbooms Beach.
The Dunes Resort (or similar)
Day 18 - Discover Robberg Nature Reserve. Free afternoon in Plettenberg Bay
Today we'll take a short drive to Robberg Nature Reserve where our Trip Leader will lead a walk along the trails. The hiking here is moderate - it's uneven under foot in places and can be slippery so good walking shoes are advised, but rewards are abundant: brilliant bird viewing, sweeping coastal views and the possibility to spot dolphins and seals playing in the waters below. From July to December, there's also the chance to see southern right whales that come into the calmer and warmer waters to calve and nurse their young.
After working up an appetite, we'll stop for a well-deserved lunch in Plettenberg Bay. After lunch, the afternoon is free with the option to relax on the beach, shop for souvenirs or join a whale-watching or kayaking excursion. We'll return to our accommodation in the late afternoon, when there'll be some free to time to relax before dinner - eat in the hotel restaurant, or choose a water-front eatery in Plettenberg Bay, and enjoy local wine alongside fresh seafood.
Day 19 - Walk, kayak or discover the tree canopy at Tsitsikamma National Park
This morning we leave on a short journey to Tsitsikamma National Park about 45 minutes away. Another hotspot for seasonal whale watching, the national park covers both land and sea, protecting important forest and marine areas and offering stunning coastal views. We'll be staying in the Storms River region where there are numerous well-marked walking trails for varying abilities, as well as the opportunity to explore suspended canopy walkways and zipwires, or to try river kayaking.
Tonight we'll be staying in simple chalets set amongst the trees just minutes from the sea front. Try fresh seafood in the restaurant or cook up a traditional braai for dinner at one of the communal barbeque areas by the water.
Storms River Rest Camp (or similar)
Day 20 - Experience a game drive at Addo Elephant National Park
We leave the Tsitsikamma area this morning for another of South Africa's national parks, stopping for breakfast on the way. Home to more than 600 elephants as well as lion, hyena and Cape buffalo, Addo Elephant National Park is our last national park of the trip. On arrival we'll swap into one of the park's safari trucks - perfect for the terrain and for capturing great wildlife shots - for a two-hour game drive with a park guide. Warthog are abundant here, along with various species of antelope, zebra and of course elephant.
After our game drive we make our way to our accommodation which is in the nearby town of Addo. Depending on timings today, your Tour Leader may change the open safari vehicle game drive to tomorrow morning instead.
Addo Homestead (or similar)
Day 21 - Search for wildlife as the sunrises. Trip ends at Port Elizabeth Airport.
Early risers have the opportunity to book a sunrise game drive with a park guide this morning. Heading out into the bush as the sun slowly peeks over the horizon is a thrilling experience that justifies the early start. The bush is cooler at this time of day, and bathed in majestic lighting - there's increased chance of seeing hyena and cats on the hunt for breakfast, and fewer cars.
The after breakfast we make our way to Port Elizabeth Airport where the trip ends at around 13.00.
Mild throughout the year and can thus be visited year round. The Western Cape has a Mediterranean-type climate, with warm, dry summers and cold winters with rainfall. Summer runs from November to March, with temperatures averaging 22oC to 34oC. The months of April and October are generally warm and sunny. Winter is also a good time to visit as towns and sites are not so crowded and the countryside is more verdant, but it can be cold. Seasonal weather patterns can be unpredictable.
Afrikaans, English
Can be visited all year round. Most rain falls in the summer months (October-April). The climate during this period is generally hot and humid in the lowlands with temperatures sometimes up to 40°C. Winters (June-August) are much drier and colder, but still pleasant for travel. The high veld has a temperate climate. Average daily sunshine hours are high throughout the year. Seasonal weather patterns can be unpredictable.
English, Swati
St. Lucia - Boat trip on Lake St. Lucia R300 pp; Full day Cape Vidal excursion (includes lunch) R775 pp; St. Lucia night drive to spot turtles (Nov-Mar) R1190 pp; Whale watching (June-Nov) R1150 pp; Night game drive in St Lucia Wetland Reserve R575 pp.
Mlilwane Wildlife Sanctuary - Mountain bike hire approx. R190. per hour; guided walk R155 pp.
Kruger National Park - Night drive R235 pp.
Please note that all St Lucia optionals are payable with cash only. Mlilwane and Kruger NP optionals can be paid by credit card as well as cash.
Clothing should generally be lightweight for the day. A few warm fleeces and long trousers are strongly recommended as nights can be very cold, especially from May to August and in the highlands of Swaziland. A waterproof and windproof jacket are also recommended, particularly between October and April. Avoid brightly coloured clothing for game viewing. Take a swimming costume. Please note that it is forbidden to wear camouflage clothing in Swaziland.
Comfortable walking shoes or lightweight boots for the treks, trainers or sandals for relaxing/travelling.
Take a tough soft bag or holdall (or rucksack with detachable frame) suitable to be carried by 4WD vehicle. Total allowance: 44lb/ 20kg maximum (due to weight restrictions on our vehicle). Also take a daypack for items needed during any short walks and game drives (20-30 litre).
Bring a torch, water bottle, sunhatunscreen and insect repellent. Binoculars are essential for game viewing and a 300mm lens is recommended for photography. Mosquito nets are not required as the accommodation provides screening where necessary.
While tap water in South Africa's urban area is drinkable, some people may take a few days to acclimatise and thus may experience traveller's tummy. Therefore we recommend for you to travel with a reusable filtered water bottle such as the ones featured at Water-to-Go: http://www.watertogo.eu/
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. However, you might want to recognise a leader that's done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It's a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we'd recommend between £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline.
Although entirely voluntary, tipping is a recognized part of life in this region of the world. Some local staff will look to members of the group for personal recognition of particular services provided. In order to make things easier for you, your leader may organise a group's tips kitty for included activities and meals and if this is the case, they will account for it throughout the tour.
Accordingly, you should allow £30.00 per person for group tipping.
Rand.
Take your money in a combination of cash and an ATM card. Both GBP and USD are readily exchanged.
Most towns or cities, your tour leader will advise you.
Cash can be drawn on debit cards from ATM's in most South African towns.
In large shops and restaurants.
Lilangeni but South African Rand is accepted
Both GBP and USD are readily exchanged. Please note that the banks and Forex Bureaus do not accept US Dollar notes pre-2002. Take your money in a combination of cash and an ATM card.
On arrival.
Cash can be conveniently drawn on credit/debit cards from ATM's.
Credit cards are usually accepted in large shops and restaurants.
We do not recommend to take travellers cheques as these are quite difficult to exchange.
4WD, Minibus
South Africa has a good tourism infrastructure and generally good service standards. Our accommodation throughout this tour is varied to reflect the many aspects of this beautiful country. We use a combination of small, family run guesthouses, characterful park lodges, and we spend one night in a permanent tented camp. Some of the properties are owner-occupied and give a real taste of traditional South African hospitality and we love supporting these small local businesses. In St Lucia we stay at a local style lodge within the wetlands area. Our most unusual accommodation is our beehive huts in Mlilwane - a traditional Swazi design but with en suite facilities! In Kruger we stay in small cabins or rondavels with shared facilities in an ablution block. This is our most basic accommodation on the trip, however it is still comfortable and is based in the heart of the national park, so it is possible to go to bed listening to wildlife.
\b Travelling with Minors via South Africa (including transits)
Regulations affecting all children aged under 18 years that are travelling to, from or via South Africa have been updated (Nov19). The law states that visa exempt children travelling for tourism purposes with one or both parents and/or an adult who is not a biological parent require to present a valid passport for each child on arrival. We strongly recommend you to refer to the South African House website for full information and to travel with a copy of these requirements.
South Africa: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, US and Canadian citizens.
New Zealand ordinary passport holders do not require a visa, all other passport holders please consult your local consulate for full information.
Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office. Please ensure you have the correct multiple entry visa, especially if you are visiting another country on your itinerary and will need to re-enter South Africa - this includes visiting Swaziland.
All visitors should ensure their passport is machine readable, has a minimum of 6 months validity from your arrival date into the country and has two blank pages when entering and leaving South Africa. The South African Immigration officials will not allow child/ infant pages to be used for this purpose and visitors without the stipulated blank pages will be denied entry.
Swaziland: Visas are not required by UK, Australian, New Zealand, and Canadian citizens. You will require one blank visa page in your passport with a minimum validity of 6 months.
Other nationalities should consult their local embassy or consular office.
You should confirm all visa related questions with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.
An ability to swim is essential for your safe enjoyment of the water based activities on this trip. If you wish to participate in these activities then we insist that you are able to swim.
Please note that you will be required to supply a yellow fever certificate that has been issued at least 10 days prior to arrival in South Africa if you have travelled from or via a country where yellow fever is endemic. We recommend protection against hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, polio and diphtheria. According to various travel health sources, the Western Cape is not regarded as a malaria risk area. If you are travelling to other areas in South Africa please check with your doctor about malaria requirements. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Please note that you will be required to supply a yellow fever certificate that has been issued at least 10 days prior to arrival in Swaziland if you have travelled from or via a country where yellow fever is endemic. We recommend protection against malaria, hepatitis A, tetanus, typhoid, polio and diphtheria. Consult your travel clinic for latest advice on different prophylaxis available against malaria. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Further information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by following the NHS and NaTHNaC links at Explore Travel Health and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.
Thu 30 Jun 2022 - Wed 20 Jul 2022
ZKS_2022
Thu 4 Aug 2022 - Wed 24 Aug 2022
Thu 18 Aug 2022 - Wed 7 Sep 2022
Thu 1 Sep 2022 - Wed 21 Sep 2022
Thu 15 Sep 2022 - Wed 5 Oct 2022
Thu 29 Sep 2022 - Wed 19 Oct 2022
Thu 6 Oct 2022 - Wed 26 Oct 2022
Thu 13 Oct 2022 - Wed 2 Nov 2022
Thu 27 Oct 2022 - Wed 16 Nov 2022
Thu 3 Nov 2022 - Wed 23 Nov 2022
Thu 17 Nov 2022 - Wed 7 Dec 2022
Thu 2 Feb 2023 - Wed 22 Feb 2023
Thu 16 Feb 2023 - Wed 8 Mar 2023
Thu 23 Mar 2023 - Wed 12 Apr 2023
Thu 31 Aug 2023 - Wed 20 Sep 2023