Kruger Safari: Self-Drive

Your South Africa vacation will start in Johannesburg, which has direct flights to the United States. If you’re interested in history, you’ll love Johannesburg. History and cultural museums are a real highlight here, namely the Constitution Hill exhibition as well as the Apartheid and Hector Pieterson museums that focus on the rise and fall of South Africa’s era of segregation. Nearby is the UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Cradle of Humankind. Here, you will find the Sterkfontein Caves where scientists discovered a human fossil dating over 2 million years old - a visit to the Maropeng Visitors Centre there is a must! 

If you’re interested in wildlife and passionate about animals, a trip to Kruger National Park is an absolute must and an experience that will stay with you for life. This breathtaking area of savannah is almost as large as the state of Vermont, and is famously home to the “Big Five.” Our Travel Experts recommend waking up early and joining the morning game drives, where you’ll spot a multitude of fascinating beasts as well as a sensational sunrise. More than 750 species roam the Kruger grounds, including antelopes, cheetahs, crocodiles, hippos, monkeys, and zebras. Alternatively, see Kruger at your own pace through a self-drive tour.

Hazyview is located just a few miles from Kruger National Park and ideally situated for those looking to do a safari day trip. The town is also located along the Panorama Route, offering easy access to the wonderful viewpoints and hikes that dot the route. Other than the numerous safari opportunities at nearby Kruger National Park, there are also wildlife rehabilitation centres as well as reptile parks. Many outdoor activities are on offer here as well. The most popular perhaps being an unforgettable hot-air balloon safari over the valley - your Tourlane Travel Expert will gladly organize this on your behalf. As an alternative, there are zip line trips over the valley and along the Sabie River.

Also known as Swaziland, this small country that neighbors South Africa has its own charm, which makes it well worth visiting during your self-drive tour of South Africa. Visit a typical African market, where you will meet hospitable locals and taste delicious delicacies. Also worth a visit: Swazi Candles, a factory where candles are made by hand, with beautiful shapes and patterns.

The next destination on your self-drive tour in South Africa is St. Lucia. This village on the east coast is all about the water and all the animals that live there. Expect to see hippos walking down the street at night, and if you're lucky, you'll find one in your hotel pool! Take a boat trip to the St. Lucia Estuary, where you can safely view hippos and crocodiles.

Known as the ‘barrier of spears’ in Zulu, the mountainous region of Drakensberg is one of South Africa’s most extraordinary natural wonders. Drakensberg is a great place for hiking, and if you happen to be visiting South Africa during the colder months, skiing is even possible here! The natural beauty of Drakesnbuerg makes it the perfect place to enjoy the great outdoors before heading back to Johannesburg to end your trip.