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Kruger Safari & Zulu Heritage

South Africa & Eswatini in 11 Days, 8 Nights in Destination

From

$3,849

$2,499

/person

-35%

Emma, Travel Expert

Emma
Travel crafter

A thrilling journey to the East Coast of South Africa and Eswatini, combining world-class wildlife safaris with an authentic immersion in the ancient Zulu culture, along with time to enjoy the charming coastal beauty.

Trip Highlights

  1. map-pin-check-icon
    Eswatini
  2. map-pin-check-icon
    Durban
  3. map-pin-check-icon
    Johannesburg
  4. map-pin-check-icon
    Kruger National Park
  5. map-pin-check-icon
    KwaZulu-Natal
  6. map-pin-check-icon
    Santa Lucía

Included

  1. All flights

  2. Accommodation

  3. All transfers

  4. Activities

  5. Some meals

Availability

  1. Departures available until December 2026

  2. Available Group tours

  3. Solo travelers from + $380

  4. Add up to 5 nights to your stay

  5. WHAT'S THIS?

Categories available

  1. charm included

  2. superior from + $500

  3. WHAT'S THIS?

Book with an expert:

1-888-488-0592

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Exoticca is a member of ASTA

Itinerary

Explore the best of South Africa and Eswatini! Start in Johannesburg and travel to Kruger National Park for thrilling game drives. Visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory and Swazi Candles in Eswatini before heading to St. Lucia for a hippo & crocodile boat cruise. End in the coastal city of Durban with an interesting visit to the Zulu Living Museum.

1st Day: US - Night on board

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Arrive at your US departure airport, ready to check in for your flight* to Johannesburg. Overnight on board.

*If your outbound flight departs before 4:00 a.m., you must arrive at the airport the night before your scheduled departure date.

2nd Day: Johannesburg

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Arrive at Johannesburg International Airport and take the shuttle bus* to your hotel. Spend the rest of the day exploring the city at your leisure, discovering its vibrant and diverse neighborhoods. Dive into the lively food scene, with pop-up eateries offering a taste of local cuisine.

Johannesburg is a true cultural hub, perfect for enjoying live music performances. Why not visit trendy bars and restaurants to soak up the local atmosphere? Overnight stay in Johannesburg.

*Please note: You can add a private transfer from the airport to the hotel during the next step of the booking process. Our representative will pick you up from the airport and take you to the hotel.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Garden Court O.R. Tambo I... or similar
tripadvisor rating

1089 Reviews

See our full selection

3rd Day: Johannesburg - Mpumalanga - Kruger National Park

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Breakfast at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer by road* to Mpumalanga. Prepare to experience Kruger National Park, home to some of South Africa’s most iconic wildlife!

Marvel at the stunning landscapes as you travel toward one of the world's largest and most incredible nature reserves. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Dinner and overnight stay in Kruger National Park.

*Please note: The journey today takes approximately 5-6 hours by road, with stops along the way for lunch (not included) and sightseeing.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Nkambeni Safari Camp or similar
tripadvisor rating

716 Reviews

See our full selection

4th Day: Kruger National Park

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Prepare for an exciting full-day 4x4 Game Drive through Kruger National Park in an open vehicle!

Enjoy an early breakfast on the go as you head to the southern region of South Africa's most famous game reserve, the Southern Circle. This area is in one of the most significant national parks for spotting the Big Five and is also renowned for frequent sightings of lions and rhinos.

Around midday, stop for lunch (not included) at a rest stop with a restaurant. In the afternoon, explore the amazing diversity of animals as you continue your game drive through Kruger National Park. The world-renowned park offers a wildlife experience that ranks with the best in Africa and it's home to an impressive number of species. End the day with a well-deserved dinner and relaxation. Overnight stay in Kruger National Park.


*Please note: Bring comfortable shoes, a warm and rainproof jacket, a sunhat, sunscreen, and a camera to capture the incredible wildlife.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Nkambeni Safari Camp or similar
tripadvisor rating

716 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Full-Day 4x4 Game Drive at Kruger National Park

Light

See more

5th Day: Kruger National Park - Eswatini

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Breakfast at the hotel. Afterwards, head to Eswatini, formerly known as Swaziland, a small landlocked monarchy in Southern Africa known for its wildlife reserves and cultural festivals. Eswatini boasts a range of ecosystems, including towering mountains, low-lying savannas, tangled rainforests, and lush river valleys.

After crossing the border, visit the Ngwenya Glass Factory, renowned for its commitment to using locally sourced materials and supporting the local community. Here, a team of skilled Swazi artisans creates enchanting glass interpretations of African animals and birds. Witness the glassblowing process from an overhead balcony (weekdays only). All items are handmade from 100% recycled glass. Afterward, proceed to your hotel for an evening at your own leisure. If you’d like to continue learning about Eswatini’s fascinating culture, we recommend joining the optional Umphakatsi Experience*, where you’ll have the opportunity to meet a local chief in person. Overnight stay in Eswatini.

*Umphakatsi Experience: Visit a traditional village for an informative and enjoyable experience of rural life in Swaziland. Learn a few words of siSwati from the local chief, and try your hand at plaiting Lutindzi grass or grinding maize.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
Mantenga Lodge or similar
tripadvisor rating

1143 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Visit to Ngwenya Glass

Light

See more
Optional
Umphakatsi Experience

Light

See more

6th Day: Eswatini - Santa Lucía/Hluhluwe

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today you’ll visit Swazi Candles, a vibrant manufacturing company based in Eswatini, known for its colorful, handmade candles. Their product range includes traditional paraffin wax candles, 100% organic soy candle tea lights, wax-encased LED lights, pure vegetable glycerin soaps, and Marula oil body balm. Founded in 1982, Swazi Candles invites guests to interact with artisans as they work.

Following your visit, make your way to the Santa Lucia/Hluhluwe region. Upon arrival, check in at your hotel. Overnight stay in the Santa Lucia/Hluhluwe region.

Total transfer time: Approx. 7 hours.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe or similar
See our full selection

Activities

included
Visit to Swazi Candles

Light

See more

7th Day: Santa Lucía/Hluhluwe

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Breakfast at the hotel. The morning is free for you to explore the area. We recommend either a half-day game drive in Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park* or an Ocean Adventure**. In the afternoon, embark on a Hippo & Crocodile Boat Cruise in the Santa Lucia Estuary. Glide through tranquil waters and observe hippos, Nile crocodiles, and a variety of birdlife. Your experienced guide will provide insights into the local ecology and wildlife behavior. Overnight stay in the Santa Lucia/Hluhluwe region.

*Half-Day Game Drive in Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park: Enjoy an exciting tour through this stunning park in an open game drive vehicle, where you’ll have the chance to spot the Big Five. The park is also home to the world’s largest population of white rhinoceros.

**Ocean Adventure: Embark on a fun boat trip, an unforgettable adventure where you’ll discover and learn about the area's most beautiful marine life. This includes playful dolphins, magnificent humpback whales, and adorable sea turtles (in season: June–November).

Please note: You can only book one of these two morning activities, as they take place at the same time.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
ANEW Hotel Hluhluwe or similar
See our full selection

Activities

included
Hippo & Crocodile Boat Cruise

Light

See more
Optional
Half Day Hluhluwe/iMfolozi game drive

Light

See more
Optional
Ocean Adventure

Light

See more

8th Day: Santa Lucía/Hluhluwe - Durban

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Breakfast at the hotel. Then, head to Durban, a multicultural city with a rich history influenced by early colonial settlers, the indigenous Zulu population, and the Indian community, who arrived as laborers in the 19th century.

En route to your hotel, stop at a Zulu Living Museum, where you can experience traditional Zulu culture through a village tour, music, and dance. This is your last day with your tour leader. Take a moment to say farewell and enjoy the rest of the day at your leisure. Overnight stay in Durban.  

Total transfer time: Approx. 4 hours.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
City Lodge Hotel Durban or similar
tripadvisor rating

210 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Zulu Living Museum

Light

See more

9th Day: Durban

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Breakfast at the hotel. Today, board the famous double-decker Durban Rickshaw Bus for a 3-hour panoramic city tour, covering major sights such as Victoria Street Market, Francis Farewell Square, the beachfront, Berea, Florida Road, Mitchell Park, Morningside, Cube Viewpoint, Wilson's Wharf, and the city center. The rest of the day is free for you to explore the attractions that interest you. Overnight stay in Durban.

Accommodation

ONE OF OUR SELECTED HOTELS
City Lodge Hotel Durban or similar
tripadvisor rating

210 Reviews

See our full selection

Activities

included
Durban Rickshaw Bus City Tour

Light

See more

10th Day: Durban - Night on board

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Breakfast* at the hotel. At the indicated time, transfer to the airport for a flight back to the US. Night on board. 

*Depending on the return flight schedule and the hotel breakfast service, you may not be able to enjoy the included breakfast on the last day.

11th Day: Night on board - US

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Arrive in the US and end your extraordinary trip.

Categories

charm

From $2,499

Selected

  • Accommodation in Charm category hotels.
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superior

From $2,999

  • Accommodation in Charm and Superior category hotels.

Pick a date and start customising your trip

Departure City

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Passengers

Category

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November 2024
December 2024
January 2025
February 2025

Included activities

Included

Full-Day 4x4 Game Drive at Kruger National Park

Included activity for day 4 in Kruger National Park

Enjoy a full-day 4x4 game drive in the southern area of South Africa's most famous game reserve. This is your opportunity to see the "Big Five" in-person!

Duration 11:00h Approx. Pick up time: 05:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

Inside of the park, there is a rest area with restaurants.

more information
Included

Visit to Ngwenya Glass

Included activity for day 5 in Eswatini

You’ll discover more about this small factory, which uses locally sourced materials and supports the community by producing high-quality glass products. Their work offers a stunning interpretation of African animals and birds!

Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: 08:00

Physical rating:

Light

more information
Included

Visit to Swazi Candles

Included activity for day 6 in Eswatini

Swazi Candles is a manufacturing company specializing in candle making (paraffin wax candles and 100% organic soy tea lights). Here, you’ll have the opportunity to interact with artisans as they create their unique designs.

Duration 00:45h Approx. Pick up time: 08:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

more information
Included

Hippo & Crocodile Boat Cruise

Included activity for day 7 in Eswatini

Enjoy a cruise through the St. Lucia Estuary, gliding across tranquil waters as you encounter the iconic wildlife of this unique ecosystem, including playful hippos, sunbathing Nile crocodiles, and a vibrant array of bird species.

Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 13:00 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

Lifejackets are provided for all passengers.

more information

Show more

Available Activities

Activities are subject to availability. The price for each optional activity will be shown in the next step of the booking process.
Optional

Umphakatsi Experience

Suggested activity for day 5 in Eswatini

Visit a Chief's Village for an engaging and authentic traditional experience. A local guide will greet you, teach you some basic siSwati, and give you the chance to try your hand at weaving ‘Lutindzi’ grass or grinding maize.

Duration 01:00h Approx. Pick up time: 14:30

Physical rating:

Light

Acitivty runs with a minimum of 4 pax.

more information
Optional

Half Day Hluhluwe/iMfolozi game drive

Suggested activity for day 7 in Hluhluwe–Imfolozi Park

Enjoy a half-day game drive in Hluhluwe/iMfolozi in an open vehicle, where you’ll be captivated by stunning landscapes, encounter a large population of white rhinoceroses, and possibly spot the impressive Big Five.

Duration 04:00h Approx. Pick up time: 04:30 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

Acitivty runs with a minimum of 4 pax.

more information
Optional

Ocean Adventure

Suggested activity for day 7 in Santa Lucía

Set off on an exciting boat trip, an unforgettable journey where you'll explore and learn about the area's stunning marine life. Expect to encounter dolphins, humpback whales and charming sea turtles (in season: June-November).

Duration 02:00h Approx. Pick up time: 05:30 Approx

Physical rating:

Light

Animal viewing is only guaranteed in season (June-November).

more information

The price includes

  • Departures from main US airports.
  • International flights: US - Johannesburg, Durban - US.
  • 8 nights hotel accommodation in Charm category hotels.
    See hotels included
  • 8 breakfasts and 2 dinners.
  • Transfers in air-conditioned vehicles with an English-speaking driver.
  • Visits and entrance fees as indicated in the itinerary.
    See itinerary
  • All air taxes and fuel surcharge.
  • Hippo & Crocodile Boat Cruise.
  • Durban City Tour on the Rickshaw Bus.
  • English-speaking guide for part of the trip.
  • Safari in Kruger National Park with an English-speaking guide in 4x4 open vehicle.

Not included

Drinks, tips and any other services not mentioned in what's included.

The airport transfer on departure is not included when adding additional nights to the itinerary. If required, a departure airport transfer can be added for an additional cost.

Please note: You’ll receive all your trip details and destination information 14 days prior to your departure.

  • South Africa
  • Eswatini
    • Entry requirements

      Passport with a minimum validity 30 days. Two blank consecutive pages per entry. For more information: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/international-travel/International-Travel-Country-Information-Pages/SouthAfrica.html

    • Visa

      No visa is required for stays of up to 90 days.

    • Currency

      South African Rand

    • Language

      Afrikaans, English, Swazi, Tsonga, Xhosa.

    • Electricity

      230 V 50 Hz

    • Health

      Vaccinations against Tetanus and Hepatitis are recommended. Please consult your doctor regarding malaria prophylaxis.

    • Time zone

      UTC+ 02:00

    • Other useful information

      South Africa is known for its varied landscape. Bring sun protectant, layers, and comfortable shoes!

    • Tourist Office website

      https://www.southafrica.net/gl/en/

    Remember to download your e-ticket to confirm the times of your flights and to complete online check-in using the airline's website, or directly at the check-in desk at the airport.

    Accommodation at the hotels is as indicated. In the event of any changes to accommodation, they will always be of the same or a higher category. The category of hotels is not standardized across all countries in the world. For this reason, the criteria may differ depending on the destination country's own standards.

    In the case of adverse weather conditions, for safety reasons or for any other reasons deemed appropriate, the order and duration of the excursions included in the itinerary may be changed or canceled without prior notice.

    If you have reduced mobility, require the use of a wheelchair, or you would prefer this tour to be a private experience for you and your group, you must contact our Experts at +1 888-488-0592 before booking to ensure that your needs can be met.

    While on the road, it is highly unlikely that the vehicle will be equipped with wifi or bathroom facilities, though rest stops will be made for long trips. We recommend purchasing a new SIM card at the airport or placing an e-SIM before travel to guarantee internet connection.

    Pay in installments

    Pay only 60% today to reserve your trip.

    Pay the rest in installments depending on your departure date

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