Spectacular South Africa

With the freedom of your own self-drive vehicle, there is no better way to explore the country. This dramatic journey into the heart of KwaZulu-Natal is a fascinating blend of the region’s natural wonders, wildlife and history.

You begin with a few days in the spectacular mountain landscape of the Drakensberg, before continuing to the Buffalo River Gorge, site of the historic Anglo-Zulu war battlefields of Rorke’s Drift and Isandlwana. You then travel north-east to the Phinda Private Game Reserve where seven distinct habitats shelter a breathtaking variety of wildlife, including Africa’s Big Five and over 380 bird species. Finally, a few days are spent relaxing at a secluded beach retreat close to the astonishing iSimangaliso Wetland Park, a World Heritage Site, the perfect conclusion to this absorbing journey.

Sample itinerary

Day 1: Depart London.  Days 2/4: Arrive Johannesburg and fly to Durban. Collect hire car and drive into the Drakensberg. Overnights Cleopatra Mountain Farmhouse.  Days 5/6: Drive to Rorke’s Drift. Overnights Fugitives’ Drift Lodge.  Days 7/9: Drive to Phinda Private Game Reserve. Game viewing and bush walks. Overnights Mountain or Forest Lodge.  Days 10/13: Drive to Maputaland Coastal Forest Reserve. Overnights Thonga Beach Lodge.  Days 14/15: Fly to London via Johannesburg.