Kruger Park Small Group Safari with Viva Expeditions

Starting our journey at 06:30hrs from Johannesburg, we embark on a captivating route towards the northeast of the country, encountering breath-taking natural landscapes and abundant wildlife in natural parks and game reserves.

Lunch is enjoyed in the historic town of Haenertsburg, located on the edge of the escarpment with beautiful surrounding views. The road is filled with picturesque beauty, from mountain passes to the Acacia trees scattered across the African bushveld.

The next two nights we get cosy at our well-appointed Bush Lodge, situated in a private reserve within the greater Kruger National Park, where animals roam freely and unrestricted. This privately owned reserve allows us the freedom to explore the wilderness in search of a variety of animals in open game drive vehicles, day and night.

The tented lodge seamlessly blends with its natural surroundings, offering crisp and cozy beds, en-suite bathrooms, a refreshing splash pool, and awe-inspiring vistas of the surrounding wilderness. Additionally, we are treated to views of a water hole frequented by a variety of animals.

Drift off to sleep while being serenaded by a symphony of sounds emanating from the animal kingdom.

After a restful night's sleep, we commence our day with an early morning light breakfast consisting of freshly brewed coffee and rusks—a traditional South African biscuit.

With our senses heightened, we embark on a guided exploration of the Big 5 area, led by a qualified guide/ranger. Our quest includes not only encounters with majestic wildlife but also the discovery of hidden treasures that often elude the casual observer.

Guided by a qualified guide/Ranger we explore the wilderness, with heightened senses, always on the lookout for an animal encounter while discovering the smaller treasures often hidden from the eye.

Before the heat of the day sets in, we return to the lodge for a scrumptious brunch, after which it’s time to relax around the lodge and enjoy the serenity of the surrounding wilderness. A nearby waterhole in front of the camp attracts a variety of wildlife that come to quench their thirst, displaying the pecking order ever so present. Unwind with a refreshing drink and game viewing from the swimming pool or from your deck.

As the heat gradually dissipates in the late afternoon, we embark on an open game drive, which eventually transforms into an immersive night drive in search of nocturnal animals. As dusk descends, we pause and indulge in a sundowner drink or two, marvelling at the breath-taking sunset that paints the African bushveld with hues of splendour.

As the African sun rises, we greet the day and indulge in a hearty breakfast before embarking on an exploration of the captivating Panorama Route, renowned for its natural wonders and picturesque viewpoints.

Our first stop takes us to witness the awe-inspiring Blyde River Canyon, recognized as the world's largest "green canyon." We then proceed to Bourke's Luck Potholes, where the discovery of abundant gold once occurred, and finally, we visit the breathtaking God's Window, weather permitting.

Along the way, we have the opportunity to enjoy an optional lunch, allowing us to engage with the locals and experience their hospitality.

In the mid-afternoon, we journey to the serene Greenfire Lodge Hazyview, an enchanting log cabin elevated on stilts amidst the indigenous forest, overlooking the magnificent Sabie River, locally known as the "Fearful" river.

If time permits, guests can partake in a nature walk on the lodge's premises and the adjacent coffee farm, immersing themselves in the mystique of the forest. We will spend two nights at this tranquil retreat, revelling in its beauty and tranquillity.

Waking with the birds, we depart the lodge at sunrise and travel a short distance to enter a different area of the Kruger National Park for a full day of game viewing.

As we leisurely traverse this iconic national park, which spans a vast expanse comparable to the size of Israel or Wales, our primary objective is to spot the abundant wildlife that calls this area home. From the elevated viewpoint and comfort of our well-equipped vehicle, our knowledgeable guide will take the time to provide insights into the behaviors and habits of the diverse array of animals that we encounter in this captivating environment.

The majority of our day will be dedicated to immersing ourselves in game viewing, punctuated by occasional stops at designated sites to stretch our legs and relish in an optional lunch at one of the rest camps within the park.

Late this afternoon we exit the park and make our way back to Greenfire Lodge Hazyview, where we can unwind and reflect on the remarkable experiences of the day.

Following a leisurely breakfast, we commence our journey from Hazyview, retracing the path once trodden by the intrepid gold prospectors of old, as we make our way back to Johannesburg. This historical route weaves through the scenic landscapes, offering glimpses of the past as we venture towards our final destination.

Our tour concludes in the late afternoon upon our arrival at either the hotel in Johannesburg or O R Tambo airport, marking the end of our memorable expedition.

***Please Note: Drifters also offer limited departures in the reverse direction starting with 2 Days in Hazyview and then followed by 2 Days in Balule.

The day by day descriptions published are intended as a rough guideline only. Adventure travel by nature is unpredictable, weather patterns, game migrations, road conditions and a multitude of other factors may necessitate itinerary changes that ultimately are for the client’s benefit. It is essential that clients are flexible and open minded in this regard.