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Kruger to Vic Falls (Family)

Trip Length

Trip Code
12 days PTKV

Activities
Wildlife (Easy)

Maximum Passengers
12 people

Countries Visited
Botswana, South Africa, Zambia

Start City

End City
Johannesburg Livingstone, Southern Zambia
Kruger to Vic Falls (Family)

This trip combines the exceptional game viewing of Greater Kruger National Park, the majesty of Victoria Falls and the wilderness experience of Chobe National Park. The Elephant Sanctuary and Kapama Cheetah Project both provide amazing hands-on experiences with some of Africa's most majestic animals. At the Elephant Sanctuary we learn many exciting facts about the African elephant and being able to get so close to these massive creatures is a thrilling experience - imagine seeing the bottom of an elephant's foot or feeling the velvety softness of the back of an elephant's ear! We may even be lucky enough to receive a special elephant kiss - trunk to cheek! At Kapama the discoveries continue as we discover the habits of several different species, especially the fastest land animal - the cheetah. Located in a region of incredible beauty, Blyde River Canyon is the largest green canyon in the world, formed at the point where two rivers meet at the Bourke's Luck potholes. There are a number of waterfalls in the area, as well as scenic viewpoints to visit. Kruger National Park and the adjoining private reserves of Greater Kruger National Park form one of Africa’s finest wildlife areas, offering superb viewing opportunities all year round. In one of the first national parks to be established in Africa, the custodians of Kruger faced tragedy, triumph and hardship, as they have strived to protect a pristine wilderness region that is sanctuary to over 700 species of mammals, reptiles and birds. We spend 3 nights in a private game lodge in Timbavati Game Reserve, part of Greater Kruger National Park, which boasts a similar range of animals to those found in the park proper. These include the 'Big Five', but the private reserves offer more opportunities for varied and close-up encounters.

Victoria Falls is Zambia's most celebrated spectacle. Measuring some 1.7 kilometres in width, with a drop of around 105 metres, an immense volume of water passes over the cataract at the height of the inundation, with a flow rate of about 550,000 cubic metres per minute. This massive rush of water sends a huge plume of spray into the sky, visible for miles and providing a stunning spectacle as we walk the paths that border the ravine.

Chobe National Park is one of Botswana's largest and its northern section abutting on to the Chobe River is wonderfully picturesque. The waters of the Chobe River are home to a fabulous range of birdlife - you don't have to be a birder to be soon enthralled - and large numbers of hippos and crocodiles. These same waters also attract large numbers of land dwellers, foremost of which are herds of elephant, which, during the dry season, are probably the largest left anywhere in Africa as they congregate close to the permanent water of the river. To see these animals drinking at sunset, or even swimming out across the river to some of the islands which dot its course, is an experience that can only be described as magical. This all takes place in an area which is scenically beautiful and which provides truly memorable sunsets across the river.
Kruger to Vic Falls (Family)

Day to Day Itinerary

Day 1: Johannesburg

On arrival in Johannesburg you met and transferred to your hotel. The rest of the day is at your leisure. Please note this is just an arrival day, but your overnight accommodation for tonight is covered.

Day 2: Elephant Sanctuary - Ohrigstad

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 dinner

We are met by our local guide between 7:00am and 7:30am and are soon off on our journey. We drive for a total of 350km today, which will take us about 4½ hours in travelling time. Our first stop is the Elephant Sanctuary at Hartebeespoort Dam, where we meet the resident elephants. The local guides explain to us many of the myths surrounding these gentle giants. They will even show us how clever elephants are by asking the animals to perform normal 'elephant behaviour' on command. Here we also get the unique opportunity to take a short walk trunk-in-hand with these wonderful animals and feed them lunch! On hot days, we may even get the chance to see them having a bath. Our base for the next two nights is at a private game reserve near Ohrigstad, in the heart of the beautiful Panorama Region. Accommodation is in comfortable chalets, each with en suite bathrooms and interconnecting rooms. From our private balcony we may see some of the numerous herds of game passing by at the waterhole.

Day 3: Blyde River Canyon - Ohrigstad

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 dinner

This morning we explore the nearby Blyde River Canyon area. This is the largest green canyon in the world and our drive through this region offers spectacular views of this breathtaking gorge from various aspects. As there is so much to see and do, today's itinerary is pretty flexible and dependant upon the season and also our group's interests. We will definitely peer out God's Window and visit Bourke's Luck Potholes. The educational centre at Bourke’s Luck is a great source of information and has a number of hands-on exhibits, making it a great place for both children and adults. We may also choose to visit Mac Mac Pools, Mac Mac Falls and Lone Creek Falls or explore the beautiful town of Graskop. There are lots of opportunities to be out of the vehicle and walking around in this beautiful region.

Day 4: Cheetah Sanctuary - Greater Kruger National Park

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

This morning, after an early breakfast, we may pause at the Three Rondavels viewpoint en route to the Hoedspruit Endangered Species Centre. This centre has established itself as one of the leading private research and breeding facilities for endangered species in the country. It places particular emphasis on the breeding and maintenance of cheetah in captivity, but also concerns itself with several other endangered indigenous wildlife species in southern Africa. The centre is a non-profit enterprise and is funded from gate takings, sales from the curio shop and the tours of the centre, which is what we enjoy this morning. After the tour of the sanctuary we continue into Timbavati Game Reserve (part of Greater Kruger National Park), where we spend three days looking for wildlife – including the famous 'Big Five' – elephant, rhino, buffalo, lion and leopard. It’s sure to be an absolute highlight of our trip! We arrive in time for a late lunch at the delightful Umlani Camp, which is our camp for the next three nights. Here we stay in thatched huts, which are lit by oil lamps and candlelight, and shower in open-air (warm) bush showers. We also enjoy our first afternoon-evening safari drive tonight.

Day 5-6: Greater Kruger National Park

Meals included: 2 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 2 dinners

We depart with our local resident guides on morning and afternoon game drives in open 4WD vehicles looking for giraffe, zebra, elephant and hopefully some of the predators too (although you should remember you are not in a zoo, so nothing is guaranteed!). The length of the drives will be tailored to suit the group members and included is time for us to get out of the vehicle and stretch our legs. We return mid-morning for a big brunch. After this you may like to take a game walk with the ranger before some eating some lunch and enjoying relaxation time. You may like to cool down with a dip in the pool or a lie in the hammocks before we head out for our afternoon drive. As is traditional in southern Africa, we pause at sunset for a 'bush sundowner' before continuing our game drive using spotlights – keep a look out for some of the many nocturnal animals of the bush that are rarely sighted during the day. We are welcomed back into camp and after freshening up we meet around a blazing fire in an open-air boma under the stars before being served a delicious South African dinner. A very special feature of this camp is the tree house, which is set approximately two kilometres away from the main camp and overlooks a dam. The camp staff can set up bedding for you in the tree house so that you can spend a night sleeping there (please note there are no bathroom facilities). You are dropped off at the tree house after dinner and collected in the morning, before the game drive. A two-way radio is provided so that you may contact the camp staff at any time should you wish to return to the main camp. A spotlight is also provided to allow you to watch for any animals coming to drink at the waterhole during the night. This tree house experience is offered at no extra cost, but needs to be booked in advance. It is also dependent on weather and is therefore not guaranteed.

Day 7: Greater Kruger National Park - Johannesburg

Meals included: 1 breakfast

After another morning game drive and another big breakfast, we bid farewell to Greater Kruger National Park for the return drive to Johannesburg. Upon arrival in Johannesburg we are transferred to the Metcourt Laurel Hotel, near the airport, where we spend the evening. There are several restaurants located in the Emperor's Palace complex for our dinner tonight (own expense). There is also an entertainment area for children will a multitude of games and activities, including an indoor roller coaster!

Day 8: Livingstone (Victoria Falls)

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 dinner

This morning we enjoy breakfast at the hotel before checking out and taking the airport shuttle from our hotel to Johannesburg's Oliver Tambo International Airport for our flight to Livingstone (flight not included). On arrival at Livingstone we are met and transferred to our Lodge. (please note it is important that we are provided with details of your flight from Johannesburg to Livingstone before you start your tour). The rest of the afternoon is at leisure to wander around town and to book any optional tours or activities through local agents. In the evening we enjoy a sunset dinner cruise on the Upper Zambezi River. Our cruise begins in the late afternoon with some game viewing, as our boat captain looks out for elephant, hippopotamus and the elusive white rhinoceros, whilst cruising along the banks of the Zambezi River. The sunsets here can be quite spectacular and the cruise makes for a memorable and relaxing evening.

Day 9: Livingstone (Victoria Falls)

Meals included: 1 breakfast

Today our time in Livingstone is our own to use as we see fit. In addition to visiting the falls, there are many various activities that you can partake in. These include canoeing and inflatable kayaking along the upper Zambezi (well above the falls!), whitewater rafting beneath the falls (along the lower section of the river) and morning or afternoon game drives or walks in Zambezi National Park. Alternatively, an excellent range of curio and craft shops provide a pleasant distraction for those seeking a more sedate kind of day. Details of optional activities are set out in these notes (below) and can be booked through our local operator.

Day 10: Chobe National Park

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

This morning we are taken on a guided tour of Victora Falls from the Livingstone (Zambian) side. Once inside the park our guide takes us through the falls area, stopping at different viewpoints and explaining about the history of the falls and its surroundings. After returning from the tour we check out of the lodge and are collected by our Botswanan operators at 10.30am and transferred to Kazangula. Here we complete border formalities (please bring along your passport and sufficient US dollars to purchase a new Zambia visa, if necessary, when returning) and then take the ferry across to Botswana. It is then just a short drive to Chobe Safari Lodge which is situated on the river-front a little way out of the park. After settling in and having lunch, there is time to relax until the mid-afternoon when we take a game drive into the park. Chobe National Park is home to the world’s largest population of elephants. The sunsets on the river can be breathtakingly spectacular. We return to our lodge soon after sunset for dinner and overnight. Chobe Safari Lodge is a delightful lodge comprising various styles of accommodation. We stay in family safari rooms with private facilities and balcony/veranda. The lodge is situated on the southern bank of the mighty Chobe River bordering Chobe National Park. The pool is a great place to relax during the hotter part of the day. Today we drive for about 100km - a journey that takes us about two hours.

Day 11: Chobe National Park

Meals included: 1 breakfast, 1 lunch, 1 dinner

A full day is planned with an early morning game drive followed by relaxation during the heat of the day and a mid-afternoon boat trip out on the river. The bird life on the water is often spectacular and hopefully we also get a chance to see families of hippos taking a bath! Keep your eyes open for crocodiles sunning themselves on the banks of the river – although they are surprisingly shy creatures! We might even see a large monitor lizard trying to steal the crocodile’s eggs. Please note that a visit to Chobe National Park itself is not a complete wilderness experience - we will see other people, boats and vehicles when inside the national park. However, we also see wildlife that can be the equal of anything anywhere in Africa.

Day 12: Livingstone

Meals included: 1 breakfast

This morning we get to have a sleep-in before enjoying breakfast. Our Botswanan operator will meet us at 10:00am for our group transfer back to Livingstone town and/or airport, where our arrangements end on arrival at about midday. If departing from Livingstone today please do not book a flight to depart before to 1:00pm. Additional accommodation and transfers can be pre-booked, at additional cost, if you would like to extend your stay in Livingstone.

Your Trip

What's Included

An experienced English-speaking local leader, specialist local guides, arrival transfer, game activities, entrance fees to parks/reserves/sights indicated in itinerary.

Summary of accommodation, transport & meals

Transport

Accommodation

Meals

Not Included

International and domestic flights including flight from Johannesburg to Livingstone, airport departure taxes, visas, meals unless specified in the itinerary, drinks, insurance, laundry, any optional tours or activities during free time, tips and items of a personal nature.

Optional Extras

We have chosen some great optional activities to enhance your travel experience. You will need to cover any additional costs yourself. Speak to your leader if you are interested in any of the following:

What to know

Vaccinations

Vaccinations may be required for this trip. Talk to your doctor about the up-to-date information for this region.

Visas and Permits

It is your responsibility to ensure you have all required visas for your trip. Rules and regulations governing the issuance of visas are constantly changing, and vary for different nationalities and you should check visa requirements with your travel agent or relevant consular authority well before travel.

Botswana
Australians, Americans, Canadians, British and New Zealanders do not currently require a visa for Botswana. For other nationalities that do require a visa to enter into Botswana, this is no longer able to be purchased upon arrival. Visa will need to be pre-arranged - please contact your travel agent for assistance.

South Africa
Australians, Americans, Canadians, British and New Zealanders do not currently require a visa for South Africa. Upon arrival you will be given a free three-month multi-entry visa stamp. For all other nationalities please reconfirm your visa requirements with your travel agent. Please note that you require six blank pages and your passport needs to have a minimum of six months validity to enter South Africa. Also note that to enter South Africa you may be required to show proof of onward travel plans and a valid yellow fever certificate (especially if entering or re-entering from East African countries).

Zambia
Australians, Americans, Canadians, British and New Zealanders currently do require a visa for Zambia. A visa can be purchased at the airport or on the border on arrival. The visa must be paid in cash in USD. If you are entering Zambia more than once it is suggested that you request a multiple entry visa. The cost for a single entry visa is US$50 and a double entry visa is US$80. A multiple entry visa must be obtained prior to arrival. A day visa is US$20. If obtaining the visa on arrival, please check that you have been given enough days to cover your stay in Zambia. If you overstay the dates on your visa, then you will be charged an additional US$250 per person, per day. Please ensure you have US dollars cash and that the notes are series 2001 or later in issue.

Insurance

You are required to have travel insurance before heading off on a Peregrine trip. Insurance can be organised by your Peregrine representative or your travel agent.

Responsible Travel

Our Responsible Travel ethos is at the heart of everything we do, from getting the basics right like respecting local cultures and the environment, to initiating projects that make positive contributions to communities, to our staff’s fundraising efforts and offsetting our carbon emissions.
Please visit our Responsible Travel (http://www.peregrineadventures.com/rt) page for more information.

Customs and Culture

Our Pre Departure Information packs (provided upon booking a trip) provide tips on how you can show respect for the local customs and culture in the country you are travelling in.

The information listed above is a brief description of some things you may need to consider when booking a trip. Once a tour is booked you will be provided with a Pre Departure Information pack which will contain detailed information.

Further Reading

Botswana

Botswana-Lonely Planet
The Guide to Botswana-Alec Campbell
Birds of Southern Africa-Newman
The Chobe-Bruce Aitken
The Lost World of the Kalahari-Laurence Van der Post
Okavango-Sea of Land, Land of Water-Bannister & Johnston

South Africa

South Africa - Lonely Planet
The Covenant - James A Michener
Cry My Beloved Country - Alan Paton
The Power of One - Bryce Courtenay
Long Walk to Freedom - Nelson Mandela
White Thorn - Bryce Courtenay

Zambia

Zambia Lonely Planet

Important Information

Age limits and responsibility for minors
The minimum age required to join this tour is four years old. This family trip is designed for families only (i.e. at least one adult and at least one child). The parent or guardian is fully responsible for their children throughout this tour. If you have a question regarding age and suitability, please contact us for further advice.

The flight from Johannesburg to Livingstone is not included and must be booked for the morning of Day 8.

Please note your local tour leader will leave you in South Africa on day 7. In Livingstone you will be met by a representative and escorted to your included activities. A local guide will join you at Vic Falls National Park and local specialist wildlife guides will escort you on your game drives in Chobe National Park.

About this Information

The information provided here is given in good faith and has been compiled with all reasonable care. However, things change and some of the information may become out of date. Please keep this in mind when you read it and check with us if you want to be sure about something. The document was correct at time of printing, but you can check online for the most up to date version.  If you have any queries, please contact your travel agent or our staff in Australia. We are here to help you!

Last Updated

3 November 2011