29 Day South Africa To The Serengeti & Masai Mara

Upon arrival into Cape Town, enjoy a private transfer to your hotel located within easy reach to all the eateries, entertainment and shopping that the V&A Waterfront has to offer.

Take the evening to relax after your flight and prepare for your first full day of touring tomorrow.

Arrival airport transfers are included as part of your package. You will be met upon arrival at the airport and transferred to your hotel.

If Inspiring Vacations has not provided your international airfares, please ensure you provide your flight details via your Traveller Hub portal no later than 90 days prior to travel so that your transfers can be confirmed.

Please note: if you are arriving early and have made your own arrangements prior to your tour commencing, airport transfers will not be included. However, if you are purchasing pre-nights accommodation as part of your Inspiring Vacations package, airport transfers will still be provided to the starting hotel.

This morning you will be met by your local tour guide and depart for the scenic Garden Route. Travel along Sir Lowry’s Pass, with its magnificent views, to Grabouw and Elgin, a lush landscape surrounded by majestic mountains. Stop en route at a farmstall packed with locally produced products from the area.

Our journey continues to Cape Agulhas, the southernmost tip of Africa, where the Atlantic and Indian Oceans meet. The area has largely been untouched and unexplored with its rugged coastline being the graveyard for many a ship.

The historic Cape Agulhas Lighthouse is considered the icon that signifies the tip of Africa. After this thrilling experience, we continue via historic Swellendam and the Tradouw Pass to Barrydale and the famous Route 62. Sample top quality port style wines in Calitzdorp, before continuing to Oudtshoorn, the ‘ostrich feather capital’ and centre of the world’s Ostrich farming industry. Enjoy dinner at an Ostrich Farm, dining on local specialities such as Ostrich Steak.

Please note: For all 2023 departures, you will overnight in Mossel Bay staying at the 3 star Diaz Hotel & Resort (or similar). Dinner is not included on this day and instead will be taken on Day 3.

After a leisurely breakfast take a tour of the spectacular limestone caverns of the Cango Caves, one of the world’s great natural wonders, sculpted by nature through the ages. Afterwards enjoy a wine tasting at a local wine estate in the scenic Schoemanshoek Valley. Return to Oudtshoorn for a fun filled interactive guided tour at a working Ostrich Farm then enjoy the rest of your day at leisure.

After breakfast, travel over the Outeniqua Pass to George, the sixth oldest town in South Africa and home to many historical landmarks including the Slave Tree and King Edward VII Library building, said to be the best example of Edwardian architecture in the town. 

Our tour continues via Wilderness, an attractive holiday resort, to Knysna, known as the oyster box of South Africa, nestling on the banks of a beautiful lagoon in the heart of the Garden Route. Journey into the magical Knysna Forests, the stamping ground of the elusive Knysna elephants. Discover the stories of the woodcutters who worked the forests, the elephants that were hunted to extinction and the discovery of gold. While there, be sure to also visit the Dalene Matthee Big Tree Memorial. This enormous Yellowwood tree has been growing for over 880 years and was named after Matthee, the best known author of four books on the Knysna Forest. Enjoy a delicious lunch, in the forest, of traditional cuisine and local treats at Totties Farm Kitchen.

Today you’ll have the opportunity to further explore the natural beauty of the Knysna area. Visit the Forest Legends Museum, the colourful Old Suzie steam engine and the stately Old Forester’s House, home of forester David Ernest Hutchins, who was the first person to manage the indigenous forest in a sustainable manner. 

Afterwards you’ll have the opportunity to visit Monkeyland Primate Sanctuary, where you will be able to see a variety of primates, roaming free in the forest. This award-winning sanctuary is well known for its efforts to rehabilitate and free previously caged primates. Our visit here ensures that these already endangered species can survive and reproduce for a future reintroduction into the wild. 

Our tour continues to the famous Eastern Head for spectacular views of the Knysna Heads (weather permitting). Afterwards we’ll travel to Brenton on Sea, a breath-taking holiday location and a nature lover’s paradise with its unspoilt beaches and peaceful surroundings. Enjoy the remainder of the afternoon at your leisure to explore.

Today we travel to Plettenberg Bay, considered the jewel of the Garden Route, for a visit to the Birds of Eden sanctuary, the biggest single free flight aviary in the world. Developed to create a safe environment for free-flight African bird, our visit here today goes towards protecting these species into the future. 

We’ll then continue to Bloukrans Bridge, the highest single span arch bridge in the world. For the more adventurous, the Bloukrans Bridge is also home to the highest commercially operated bungy jump in the world! 

Our day ends with a visit to Tsitsikamma National Park and, should weather be permitting, Storms River Mouth. The Tsitsikamma National Park encompasses 80km of rocky coastline and is filled with spectacular landscapes including Fynbos-covered mountains and deep river gorges leading down to the sea.

Head eastwards along the Tsitsikamma Forest to Gqeberha (Port Elizabeth), affectionately known as the “friendly city”. Travel to Chief Dawid Stuurman Airport for an onward flight to Johannesburg, where you’ll be met and transferred to your hotel. The remainder of the day is yours to relax.

Spend a full day exploring Soweto and its surrounds, where some of the watershed events in the struggle against apartheid occurred. The tour starts with a drive past the FNB Stadium, also known as Soccer City and the venue for the 2010 FIFA World Cup Final. It was also the site of Nelson Mandela’s first speech in Johannesburg after his release from prison in 1990. 

We’ll continue through Diepkloof, home to Soweto’s richest and then to Kliptown, where the Freedom Charter was officially adopted in 1955. Drive past the Regina Mundi Church that played a pivotal role in the township’s history of resistance against apartheid and then onto Vilakazi Street, the most famous street in Soweto, where two Nobel Prize winners once lived; Nelson Mandela and Desmond Tutu. 

The afternoon will conclude with visits to the Hector Pieterson Memorial and Museum that commemorate the role of the country’s students in the struggle against apartheid and the prestigious Apartheid Museum, that covers the full history of the Apartheid era in South Africa.

Today is yours to enjoy at leisure. Continue to explore the sights of Johannesburg independently or join one of the available optional tours.

This morning you will be collected from your hotel, heading east to the Mpumalanga region. After freshening up at your lodge enter the world-famous Kruger National Park and spend the afternoon game viewing in your closed touring vehicle.

Kruger National Park offers some of the best game viewing and wildlife opportunities in the world – and you’ll soon appreciate the challenges of managing this unique reserve. After an action-packed afternoon in the Kruger Park, enjoy authentic cuisine from the region at your hotel.

The day begins with early morning coffee or tea, followed by a thrilling open vehicle game safari through the Kruger National Park with pre-packed breakfast. Your guide will endeavour to spoil you with sightings of the “Big Five”, general game and prolific bird life. After your game drive, return to the lodge and take some time to relax and enjoy the resort facilities. 

This afternoon enjoy another thrilling game drive in your closed touring vehicle to pursue the Big Five and other rare and endangered species. Return to the lodge for another delicious dinner at your hotel.

Enjoy breakfast before setting out to explore the magnificent Panorama Route, one of the most scenic routes in the region, offering glorious views, spectacular landscapes, and exquisite waterfalls. Visit majestic sights including God’s Window, the Three Rondavels and Blyde River Canyon – the third largest canyon of its kind in the world. We’ll also visit Bourke’s Luck Potholes and the charming village of Graskop, one of the first gold mining camps in the country. 

For those who’d prefer to not join the Panorama Route tour, you’re welcome to take additional open vehicle game drives through Kruger National Park at your own expense.

This evening, return to your lodge for a delectable delectable dinner at your hotel.

Enjoy breakfast before starting the return journey to Johannesburg OR Tambo International Airport arriving early in the afternoon.  Bid farewell to your fellow travellers not continuing on to Kenya and make your own way to the City Lodge hotel conveniently located just a short 5 - 10 minute walk within the airport terminal.

Spend the rest of the day at leisure in preparation for your journey to East Africa in the morning.

Make your way back to the airport for your included flight to Nairobi. Please ensure you check-in at least 3 hours prior to your scheduled departure. 

Welcome to Kenya! On your arrival at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) you will be met by a local representative in the arrivals hall and transferred to your hotel for relaxation and overnight.

Take advantage of today's ample leisure time to unwind following your thrilling expedition in South Africa, in anticipation of your upcoming safari adventure in East Africa. Make the most of this day by indulging in the amenities provided by your hotel or utilise the hotel's travel desk, which can help you in arranging a day excursion to discover the attractions Nairobi has to offer.

Join your guide and the rest of the group for a pre-departure meeting after enjoying a satisfying breakfast. This marks the beginning of our incredible adventure through Kenya and Tanzania.

Before departing from Nairobi, we make a stop at the enchanting Karen Blixen Museum. This historic farmhouse was once the home of Karen Blixen, the celebrated author of "Out of Africa," during the period of 1917 to 1931.

Afterward, we continue our expedition to the Giraffe Centre and the Daphne Sheldrick Animal Orphanage, where you will have the extraordinary opportunity to witness the dedicated efforts in rehabilitating orphaned baby elephants rescued from the wild.

Following lunch we resume our journey, heading towards the Amboseli National Reserve, we will arrive in the afternoon at the Kibo Safari Camp, nestled within the remarkable Amboseli National Reserve. This enchanting destination promises breathtaking landscapes and wildlife encounters that will leave you in awe.

Our itinerary for today takes us to the renowned Amboseli National Park, where we will embark on an exhilarating full day of wildlife observation. This park holds great fame within Kenya and is particularly renowned for its impressive population of majestic elephant bulls, adorned with remarkable tusks. Capture the ultimate safari moment as you witness these magnificent creatures against the breathtaking backdrop of Mount Kilimanjaro, its snow-capped peak adding a touch of awe-inspiring beauty to the scene.

Following a relaxed breakfast, we commence our journey towards the border and proceed onward to Arusha. Along the way, we will have the opportunity to admire the picturesque Marangu waterfalls, which involve a moderately challenging walk (we suggest wearing sturdy footwear and having a reasonable level of fitness for this activity). 

As the day progresses, we will journey towards the charming town of Arusha, known as the gateway to the esteemed Kilimanjaro National Park. Upon our arrival, we will check into the African Tulip Hotel, where the rest of the evening is at leisure to unwind and prepare for the adventures that lie ahead.

Please note that there will be a change of both guide and vehicle at the border as we enter Tanzania.

Following breakfast,  we set out for Tarangire National Park, where we will indulge in a full day of thrilling game drives. Prepare to be enchanted by the awe-inspiring vistas of the Maasai Steppe and the majestic mountains in the southern horizon, creating a mesmerising backdrop during our visit to Tarangire. This national park is renowned for its remarkable population of elephants and the iconic baobab trees that dot its landscape. It also serves as a pivotal location within an annual migratory cycle, attracting a multitude of wildlife, including up to 3,000 elephants, 25,000 wildebeest, and 30,000 zebras. 

As the day draws to a close, we will make our way to our accommodation for the evening, the charming Tarangire Simba Lodge. Here, amidst the tranquillity of the surroundings, we can relax and unwind, immersing ourselves in the beauty of the natural surroundings. Prepare to be enchanted by the wilderness and embrace the serenity that awaits us.

Following breakfast, we begin our journey towards Lake Manyara National Park. This remarkable reserve is situated at the northwestern edge of Lake Manyara, a soda lake nestled at the base of the western escarpment of the Great Rift Valley. Our drive through the park will treat us to breathtaking scenery, renowned not only for its vast flocks of vibrant flamingos but also for the elusive sight of tree-climbing lions, adding an element of intrigue and excitement to our adventure. 

Following this we make our way to the charming village of Karatu, where we will spend the night. Our accommodation for the evening is the inviting Karatu Simba Lodge, providing comfort and relaxation amidst the scenic surroundings. Take this time to unwind and reflect on the incredible experiences of the day, anticipating the adventures that lie ahead.

Today we embark on a captivating journey to explore the cultural diversity of Mto-wa-Mbu. Our adventure begins at the local market, where we immerse ourselves in the vibrant atmosphere and observe the bustling activity. We continue our exploration by visiting a Chagga family engaged in the production of banana beer, providing us with an insightful glimpse into their traditional practices. Along the way, our knowledgeable guide will introduce us to the various fruits and vegetables cultivated in the region, while also explaining the ingenious irrigation system that sustains the local crops.

A highlight of our day awaits as we savour a delightful, home-cooked meal in the warm hospitality of a local's home, indulging in authentic flavours and experiencing the rich culinary traditions of the area. Following this, we venture to the Maasai Boma, where we are privileged to engage in a cultural encounter of a lifetime. The Maasai people, renowned for their semi-nomadic herding lifestyle, have chosen to preserve their traditional customs and are easily recognizable by their distinctive attire.

In the late afternoon, we embark on a leisurely walking tour to Lake Papyrus, a magnificent water body teeming with abundant birdlife and graceful hippos. If time permits, we can also partake in a gentle trek, ascending to a picturesque waterfall. From this vantage point, we marvel at the panoramic view of the lake nestled atop the towering walls of the Rift Valley. Our journey continues through the banana plantations and lush rice fields before culminating in a visit to a local village, providing us with an authentic insight into the daily lives of the community.

As the day draws to a close, we return to the lodge in time for dinner.

Today, we begin our day with an early departure to embark on a thrilling game drive in the iconic Ngorongoro Crater, renowned worldwide for its extraordinary wildlife encounters. For many, this awe-inspiring natural wonder stands as the pinnacle of their safari experience. The crater boasts the entire 'Big 5' group of animals, including a small population of the critically endangered black rhino. The diverse range of wildlife and the breathtaking scenery make this an unforgettable adventure.

After enjoying a delightful picnic lunch amidst the beauty of the crater, we proceed towards the Serengeti, we traverse the breathtaking central Plains, which epitomise the iconic landscapes the park is famous for. Picture endless undulating grass savannahs punctuated by rugged outcrops that provide secluded havens for wildlife. Finally, we arrive at the enchanting Kisura Serengeti Camp, nestled in the heart of this remarkable wilderness, where you will find comfort and tranquillity during your stay.

Today will be dedicated to a full-day game drive in the Seronera area of the Serengeti. Known as one of the three main regions of the Serengeti, Seronera stands as the central and easily accessible part of the park. It is home to the Park Headquarters and is characterised by vast open plains of grassland teeming with an abundance of wildlife.

The Seronera River serves as the lifeblood of the Serengeti, attracting a diverse array of animals throughout the year. This area is renowned for its exceptional game viewing opportunities, with remarkable sightings available regardless of the season. It is particularly known for its frequent encounters with majestic lions and agile cheetahs. Additionally, Seronera presents a prime opportunity to spot the elusive and enchanting leopard, known as the most secretive of all the big cats.

Get ready for another thrilling day of adventure as we continue our exploration of the magnificent Serengeti National Park. Equipped with lunch boxes to keep us energised, we embark on captivating game drives throughout the afternoon. As we traverse the vast and boundless plains, our eyes are treated to a spectacle of wildlife sightings, reaffirming the well-deserved fame of this extraordinary national park. Marvel at the diverse array of animals that roam these lands, and immerse yourself in the sheer beauty of the Serengeti.

As the sun begins its descent, we make our way back to the lodge, filled with unforgettable memories and stories to share. Rest and rejuvenate overnight, ready to embrace the wonders that await us on the next leg of our journey.

Following a satisfying breakfast, we embark on a journey towards the enchanting Lake Victoria. Along the way, we traverse through the picturesque villages inhabited by the Sukuma tribe, renowned for their cultivation of ground nuts, sorghum, and cassava, as well as their traditional livestock rearing. Life in these villages reflects a simplicity that has endured through the ages, providing us with a glimpse into a timeless way of living. Amidst this serene ambiance, we encounter poignant reminders of the 20th century, further adding to the depth of our cultural experience.

Our next destination is Lake Victoria, where we will be staying at the charming boutique lodge, Serenity on the Lake, for the evening. Take advantage of the leisure time in the afternoon to relax and unwind, or consider taking a leisurely bird walk along the picturesque lake shore.

This morning presents a unique opportunity to partake in a boat excursion, allowing you to explore one of the local fishing villages surrounding Lake Victoria. Delve into the vibrant culture and livelihoods of the community, gaining a deeper understanding of their fishing traditions and way of life. After this enriching experience, we bid farewell to the majestic Lake Victoria and continue our journey northwards, crossing the border into Kenya.

Our destination is the renowned Masai Mara, a land steeped in tradition and home to the Maasai people. This vast savannah landscape serves as a grazing area for the Maasai's cattle, allowing them to sustain their traditional pastoral lifestyle. The Masai Mara encompasses a diverse range of ecosystems, including riverine forests along the Mara and Talek Rivers, scattered acacia forests, and expansive open plains. Prepare to immerse yourself in this extraordinary ecosystem as we arrive at the Mara Eden Safari Camp, your welcoming haven for the next two remarkable nights. 

Please note that there will be a change of guide and vehicle at the border crossing into Kenya.

Today, we embark on an exhilarating full-day adventure immersed in the renowned Masai Mara National Park. This iconic wildlife sanctuary offers an abundance of diverse habitats that serve as a haven for a wide array of game species. Prepare to be captivated as we seek to encounter magnificent creatures such as lions, leopards, and cheetahs in their natural habitat. The sweeping landscapes of the Masai Mara are also home to an impressive range of wildlife, including zebras, wildebeest (gnu), giraffes, buffalos, jackals, topis, gazelles, impalas, and elephants.

As we navigate the park's lush plains and traverse its meandering rivers, we are likely to encounter a multitude of hippopotamuses and crocodiles, adding to the wildlife spectacle. Keep your eyes trained on the skies as well, for the birdlife in this area is incredibly abundant, offering opportunities to spot a wide variety of avian species.

After breakfast, we head to Nairobi, the capital of Kenya. You have the afternoon to explore the city or enjoy leisure time. Time allowing, we will visit the renowned Kazuri Beads Centre and workshop. Here, we can immerse ourselves in the artistry of the skilled women who meticulously handcraft each striking ceramic bead. The name "Kazuri," meaning "small and beautiful" in Swahili, perfectly encapsulates the exquisite nature of these intricate creations.

In the evening, we return to the hotel for dinner and overnight stay.

After a final breakfast, the tour concludes, and it's time to say goodbye. You will be transferred to the airport for your outbound flight. 

We hope the memories and experiences from this journey will stay with you as you continue on your future adventures.

Post tour accommodation information can be found under “Extra Services” and can be purchased at time of booking. Rates include breakfast PLUS transfer from the Boma Hotel to Nairobi Airport.